Battery module, Battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module characterized by comprising: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells stacked in a first direction; and a module frame having a first frame and a second frame configured to accommodate the cell assembly by being interconnected along a second direction which is horizontally orthogonal to the first direction.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile. Background Technology

[0002] Secondary batteries, which possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density and high applicability across product groups, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources. These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for enhancing eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only for the primary advantage of drastically reducing the use of fossil fuels but also because they generate no by-products from energy use.

[0003] Currently, widely used types of rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Additionally, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery module or battery pack.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first configure a battery module containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery module to add other components to configure the battery pack or battery rack.

[0005] In conventional battery modules, the module frame is composed of various parts, and welds may be formed to join these parts. In this case, there was a problem of reduced productivity because the welding process to connect multiple plates to each other had to be performed multiple times.

[0006] Furthermore, in battery modules where multiple battery cells are densely packed in a confined space, ensuring safety in the event of a thermal event is a critical task. In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery cell, high-temperature gases, flames, or heat may be generated and released.

[0007] At this time, high-temperature venting gas or flames can increase the pressure inside the module frame, potentially causing the frame to break. Furthermore, if a weld fractures, external oxygen can enter the module frame, intensifying the flames within the battery module. This can lead to a fire or explosion of the battery module or battery pack. Such fires or explosions in battery modules or battery packs can cause not only property damage but also human casualties. For example, if a fire or explosion occurs in an electric vehicle battery pack, it can threaten the safety of users, such as the driver. The problem to be solved

[0008] Accordingly, the present invention is designed to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a battery module that ensures safety by stably maintaining the combined state of the module frame of the battery module, as well as a battery pack including the same and an automobile.

[0009] However, the problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. means of solving the problem

[0010] To solve the above problem, a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells stacked in a first direction; and a module frame having a first frame and a second frame configured to accommodate the cell assembly by being interconnected along a second direction which is horizontally orthogonal to the first direction.

[0011] The front surface of the cell assembly is covered by a first frame, the rear surface of the cell assembly is covered by a second frame, and the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right surfaces of the cell assembly may be configured to be divided and covered by the first frame and the second frame.

[0012] The first frame is configured to accommodate a part of the cell assembly on one side, and the second frame may be coupled to the first frame to accommodate the remaining part of the cell assembly on the other side.

[0013] The venting induction direction of the venting gas generated in the battery cell and the second direction can be configured to be orthogonal.

[0014] At least one of the first frame and the second frame may have a venting hole formed on its upper surface configured to discharge venting gas generated from the battery cell.

[0015] The above plurality of battery cells can be stacked face-to-face such that electrode leads are drawn out in the front-rear direction and the sealing portion where the electrode leads are not drawn out faces upward.

[0016] The first frame and the second frame each have an open end on the inner side, and the first frame and the second frame may be configured so that their inner open ends face each other.

[0017] A welded portion may be formed at the inner open end where the first frame and the second frame face each other.

[0018] The above welded portion may be configured in the form of at least a partially bent line.

[0019] It may further include a terminal that is electrically connected to the electrode lead of the battery cell and is configured such that at least a portion of it protrudes to the outside of the first frame.

[0020] The first frame above may be provided with a terminal hole configured to allow the terminal to pass through.

[0021] It may further include an insulating cover provided between the first frame and the terminal and configured to electrically insulate the first frame and the terminal.

[0022] The above insulating cover may have a through hole configured to allow the terminal to pass through to the outside.

[0023] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0024] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention. Effects of the invention

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, manufacturing costs and time can be reduced in manufacturing a battery module by minimizing the number of parts of a module frame. Accordingly, productivity can be improved and convenience of management can be enhanced.

[0026] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, even if shock or vibration occurs in the battery module, the module frame is not damaged or broken, and the combined state can be stably maintained. This ensures the structural stability of the battery module.

[0027] Thus, according to the above aspect of the present invention, even if thermal events such as venting gas or flames occur in a battery module, the leakage of venting gas or flames to the outside through damaged or broken parts of the module frame can be minimized, thereby effectively preventing the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules.

[0028] Furthermore, according to the above aspect of the present invention, in a battery module, the spread of fire caused by the influx of oxygen, etc. through damaged or broken parts of the module frame can be effectively prevented. This ensures the safety of the battery module.

[0029] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, the bonding state of the module frame can be stably maintained even when swelling of the battery cell occurs.

[0030] In addition to the above, the present invention may have various other effects, which are described in each embodiment, or effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art, etc., will be omitted. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0031] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention provided below; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings. FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 may be a drawing showing the cross-section I-I' of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the direction of venting induction when a thermal event occurs in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a welded portion of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a top view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a top view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the module frame of a battery module separated according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a front side exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a front view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0032] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0033] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0034] In addition, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar configurations are omitted, and the focus is on the differences.

[0035] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used in the present invention, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the position of the object or the position of the observer, as is obvious to those skilled in the art of the present invention.

[0036] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean the left-right direction, i.e., the first direction; the Y-axis direction may mean the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), i.e., the second direction; and the Z-axis direction may mean the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, i.e., the height direction of the battery cell.

[0038] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 may be a drawing showing the cross-section along I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the battery module (10) according to the present invention includes a cell assembly (100) and a module frame (200).

[0040] A cell assembly (100) may comprise one or more battery cells (110), particularly a plurality of battery cells (110). Here, each battery cell (110) may refer to a single secondary battery itself or may refer to a battery group in which multiple secondary batteries are assembled. In this specification, the description is based on the assumption that the battery cell (110) represents a single secondary battery.

[0041] A plurality of battery cells (110) may include an electrode assembly, a cell case (111) that accommodates the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead (112) that is connected to the electrode assembly and extends outward from the cell case (111) to function as an electrode terminal.

[0042] At this time, the shape of the cell case (111) can be configured in various ways, and depending on the shape of the cell case (111), the battery cell (110) can be classified into pouch-type cells, cylindrical cells, prismatic cells, etc. Since the types of such battery cells (110) are widely known at the time of filing the present invention, a detailed description is omitted. Although the drawings of this specification depict a pouch-type battery cell, the present invention is applicable to all types of secondary batteries known at the time of filing the present invention and is not limited to a specific type of secondary battery.

[0043] In the cell assembly (100), a plurality of battery cells (110) may be configured in a stacked form in a first direction. For example, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked in a form arranged side by side in the left-right direction (±X-axis direction), as indicated by arrow D1 in FIG. 2. In addition, a plurality of battery cells (110) provided in the cell assembly (100) may be electrically connected to each other in series and / or parallel through a bus bar (420), etc., which will be described later.

[0044] Meanwhile, the module frame (200) may be configured to accommodate the cell assembly (100). Specifically, the module frame (200) may be configured to have a receiving space formed therein and to accommodate the cell assembly (100) in the receiving space. For example, the module frame (200) may be configured such that multiple parts are combined to form a rectangular shape. The module frame (200) may be composed of at least partially metal and / or plastic material.

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the module frame (200) may have a first frame (210) and a second frame (220). The first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be assembled together to form the exterior of the module frame (200).

[0046] At this time, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be joined together along a second direction which is horizontally orthogonal to the first direction. For example, the second frame (220) can be joined by moving it forward from the rear of the first frame (210). That is, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be joined together along the front-rear direction (±Y-axis direction), as indicated by arrow D2 in FIG. 2.

[0047] The first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured to accommodate the cell assembly (100) in a divided manner. As a more specific example, the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right surfaces of the cell assembly (100) may be configured to be covered by the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) in a divided manner.

[0048] For example, after at least a portion of the cell assembly (100) is accommodated in the first frame (210) or the second frame (220), the remaining second frame (220) or the first frame (210) may be joined so that the cell assembly (100) can be accommodated inside the module frame (200). At this time, various fastening methods such as welding, bonding, bolting, and hooks may be used to secure the connection between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220).

[0049] That is, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the module frame (200) can be formed using only two parts, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220), to accommodate the cell assembly (100) entirely. By doing so, the number of parts of the module frame (200) can be minimized, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and time in manufacturing the battery module (10). Accordingly, productivity can be improved and convenience of management can be enhanced.

[0050] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the coupling area of ​​various parts of the module frame (200) is minimized, damage or breakage of the module frame (200) can be prevented even if shock or vibration occurs to the battery module (10). Thus, structural stability of the battery module (10) can be secured.

[0051] In particular, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event such as venting gas or flame occurs in the battery module (10), the bonded state of the module frame (200) can be stably maintained. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the module frame (200) from separating and the venting gas or flame, etc. from leaking to the outside. Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to effectively prevent the spread of fire by preventing oxygen, etc. from entering the interior through damaged or broken parts of the module frame (200). Thus, the safety of the battery module can be ensured.

[0052] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, since the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are joined in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the battery cell (110) swells, the joined state of the module frame (200) can be stably maintained even when swelling of the battery cell (110) occurs.

[0053] As a more specific example, the first frame (210) may be configured to accommodate a portion of the cell assembly (100) on one side, and the second frame (220) may be coupled to the first frame (210) to accommodate the remainder of the cell assembly (100) on the other side. For instance, as in the embodiment illustrated in the drawing, the first frame (210) may be configured to accommodate a portion of the cell assembly (100) on the front side, and the second frame (220) may be configured to accommodate the remainder of the cell assembly (100) on the rear side.

[0054] In other words, the first frame (210) is configured to surround a portion of the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right surfaces of the cell assembly (100) and the front surface of the cell assembly (100), and the second frame (220) is configured to surround the remaining portion of the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right surfaces of the cell assembly (100) and the rear surface of the cell assembly (100). Accordingly, the front surface of the cell assembly (100) is covered by the first frame (210), and the rear surface of the cell assembly (100) is covered by the second frame (220).

[0055] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the remaining portion, excluding the area where the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are joined, particularly the front and rear surfaces of the cell assembly (100), can be completely covered by the first frame (210) and the second frame (220). As a result, when a thermal event occurs in the battery module (10), venting gas or flames, etc., can be suppressed from moving toward adjacent battery modules (10) through the front and rear surfaces of the module frame (200). Therefore, thermal runaway propagation between battery modules (10) can be minimized.

[0057] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the direction of venting induction when a thermal event occurs in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] A battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured such that the second direction, which is the assembly direction of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220), is orthogonal to the venting induction direction of the venting gas generated in the battery cell (110). For example, as indicated by arrows D2 and D3 in FIG. 4, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are assembled by moving inward along the front-rear direction, and the venting induction direction may be configured to be in the upward direction.

[0059] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the area where the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are joined in the venting induction direction can be minimized. That is, since the direction in which venting gas or flames are discharged and the direction in which the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are assembled are mismatched, the separation of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) due to pressure from venting gas or flames can be minimized. Therefore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, even if thermal events such as venting gas or flames occur in the battery module (10), the joined state of the module frame (200) is stably maintained, thereby ensuring the structural stability of the battery module (10).

[0060] With reference to FIG. 4, the venting induction direction will be described in more detail. A venting hole (H) may be formed on at least one side of the module frame (200). For example, the venting hole (H) may be formed in at least one of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) of the module frame (200). This venting hole (H) may be configured to discharge the venting gas generated from the battery cell (110) to the outside of the module frame (200).

[0061] For example, the venting hole (H) may be formed in a completely open shape to penetrate the module frame (200) in an internal or external direction. However, the venting hole (H) may not be completely open and may be configured to be closed under normal conditions but openable depending on changes in pressure or temperature.

[0062] The venting holes (H) may be provided in multiple numbers. Additionally, the venting holes (H) may be formed in a shape that extends long in one direction. For example, as indicated by arrow D2 in FIG. 4, the venting holes (H) may be formed in a shape that extends long in the longitudinal direction (second direction) of the battery cell (110).

[0063] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the pressure inside the battery module (10) can be increased by the venting hole (H), thereby preventing the battery module (10) from exploding. In addition, in this case, the direction of discharge of the venting gas can be guided.

[0064] These venting holes (H) can be formed on the upper surface of the module frame (200). That is, as indicated by arrow D3 in FIG. 4, the venting induction direction of the battery module (10) can be directed upward. In addition, in this case, the connection direction of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be the front-back direction (second direction), which is a direction orthogonal to the upward direction.

[0065] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are assembled in the front-rear direction, the separation of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) due to pressure such as venting gas or flame can be minimized by inducing the venting induction direction upward. Therefore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, even if thermal events such as venting gas or flame occur in the battery module (10), the combined state of the module frame (200) is stably maintained, thereby ensuring the structural stability of the battery module (10).

[0066] Meanwhile, referring again to FIG. 3, when the battery cell (110) is provided as a pouch-type battery cell, the cell case (111) may be provided with a storage portion (111a) and a sealing portion (111b). The storage portion (111a) may be configured to accommodate an electrode assembly, and the sealing portion (111b) may be configured to seal the outer edge of the storage portion (111a) by heat fusion. For example, a cell case (111) may include a storage portion (111a) that accommodates the electrode assembly and a sealing portion (111b) in which three sides of the outer edge of the storage portion (111a) are sealed, by folding the middle portion to insert the electrode assembly between them.

[0067] Meanwhile, the electrode leads (112) may be provided as a pair, and the pair of electrode leads (112) may be drawn out at both ends of the battery cell (110), that is, in the longitudinal direction (second direction). At this time, the pair of electrode leads (112) may be a positive lead and a negative lead. If necessary, the battery cell (110) may have a form in which the two electrode leads (112) are located only at one end of the second direction, such as at the end in the +Y-axis direction.

[0068] At this time, the sealing portion (111b) may include a portion where the electrode lead (112) is drawn out and a portion where the electrode lead (112) is not drawn out. For example, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the portion of the sealing portion (111a) where the electrode lead (112) is drawn out may be provided on both sides along the second direction (front-back direction) of the cell case (111), and the portion where the electrode lead (112) is not drawn out may be provided on the top. That is, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked face-to-face such that the electrode lead (112) is drawn out in the front-back direction and the sealing portion (111a) where the electrode lead (112) is not drawn out faces upward.

[0069] At this time, the venting gas generated in the battery cell (110) can be vented to the outside through the sealing portion (111a) where the electrode lead (112) is not drawn out. By doing so, the venting gas can be induced to be vented upward. According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas vented upward from the battery cell (110) can be vented to the outside of the battery module (10) through the venting hole (H) provided at the top.

[0070] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the venting direction of the battery cell (110) can be more effectively induced to face upward. Thus, when the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are assembled in the front-rear direction, even if a thermal event such as venting gas or flame occurs in the battery module (10), the separation of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) due to pressure from the venting gas or flame can be minimized. Accordingly, the structural stability of the battery module (10) can be further ensured.

[0072] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3, the battery module (10) of the present invention may further include a busbar frame assembly (400). The busbar frame assembly (400) may be provided inside the module frame (200) and configured to cover at least one side of a plurality of battery cells (110). The busbar frame assembly (400) may be located on the side where the electrode lead (112) of the battery cell (110) is drawn out. For example, the busbar frame assembly (400) may be coupled to the front and rear of the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0073] The busbar frame assembly (400) may include a busbar frame (410) and a plurality of busbars (420). The busbar frame (410) may be configured to be coupled to the front and rear of approximately a plurality of battery cells (110). The busbar frame (410) may have slits capable of drawing out the electrode leads of the battery cells (110) in the front and rear directions.

[0074] Additionally, the busbar frame (410) may be formed of a material having electrical insulation properties, such as plastic, and configured to allow a busbar (420) to be attached to its outer surface.

[0075] Meanwhile, multiple busbars (420) are made of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc., and can be provided in the form of rods as a means for connecting battery cells (110) in series and / or in parallel.

[0076] The electrode leads (112) of the battery cells (110) pass through a slit in the busbar frame (410) and are drawn out to the outside of the busbar frame (410), and the drawn-out portion can be attached to the surface of the busbar (420) by means such as welding.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6, the combined structure of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) will be described in detail.

[0079] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a welded portion of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a drawing of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from above.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may each have an open end on the inside. When the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are combined, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured so that their respective inner open ends face each other.

[0081] At this time, a weld (W) may be formed at the inner open end where the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) face each other. The weld (W) may be formed in the central part of the module frame (200).

[0082] Specifically, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured such that one component supports the other. The first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured such that their ends come into contact with each other. And, in this way, the contacting portions of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are welded, thereby forming a weld (W).

[0083] As a more specific example, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may each be configured to have four corners. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 5, the first frame (210) located at the front may be configured to be approximately rectangular when viewed from the rear side. Similarly, the second frame (220) may be configured to be approximately rectangular when viewed from the front side. Therefore, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may each have corners at the top, bottom, left, and right sides, respectively, and thus have a total of four corners.

[0084] In this configuration, a weld (W) may be formed on at least one of the four corners of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220). In particular, a weld (W) may be formed on the part where the four corners of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) face each other. That is, the weld (W) may be formed on the upper, lower, left, and right sides where the inner open ends of each of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) face each other.

[0085] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be joined more stably. In addition, in this case, the leakage of venting gas or flames between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be prevented more effectively.

[0087] FIG. 7 is a top view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] The weld (W) can be formed in various forms other than the above embodiment. For example, the weld (W) can be configured in the form of a line that is at least partially bent. In particular, the weld (W) can be formed in a zigzag shape. That is, in the embodiment of FIG. 7, on one surface (upper surface) of the battery module (10), the weld (W) can be formed in a zigzag shape protruding forward and backward from the central part (inner side) of the battery module (10).

[0089] As a more specific embodiment, referring to FIG. 7, the first frame (210) may have a first protrusion (P1). Additionally, the second frame (220) may have a second protrusion (P2). These protrusions (P1, P2) may be formed to protrude in the direction of connection between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220), that is, in the inner direction of the module frame (200). That is, the inner end of the first frame (210) and the inner end of the second frame (220) may be configured in an uneven shape. At this time, the first protrusion (P1) and the second protrusion (P2) may be arranged to be staggered from each other along the left-right direction (first direction).

[0090] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the length of the weld (W) can be formed longer. That is, referring to the embodiment of FIG. 7, the length of the weld (W) can be formed longer than the width in the left-right direction of the module frame (200). Accordingly, the bonding strength of the weld (W) is further improved, and the bonding strength between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be increased.

[0091] In particular, in the above embodiment, since the weld (W) is distributed over a wide area in the direction of connection between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220), the tensile stress on the connection area between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be improved.

[0092] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, a fitting connection configuration between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) is implemented, so that the fixing force between them can be further improved. In addition, the sealing performance of the welded part (W) can be further improved.

[0093] Meanwhile, the weld (W) in the form of a bent line shown in FIG. 7 may be provided not only on the upper surface of the module frame (200) but also on the side or lower surface. In addition, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 7, the weld (W) between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) according to the present invention may be formed in various other shapes.

[0095] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the module frame of a battery module separated according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Meanwhile, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured such that one component supports the other component in an outward direction. Specifically, one of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured to rest on the other component. That is, when viewing the cross-section of the module frame (200) from the side, the inner open end of the first frame (210) and the inner open end of the second frame (220) may be configured to be staggered perpendicular to each other.

[0097] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the front end of the second frame (220) may be configured to rest on the first frame (210). Specifically, a concave portion (G) formed to protrude backward (in the +Y-axis direction) may be provided at the rear end of the first frame (210). The concave portion (G) may be configured to be indented inward at the rear end of the first frame (210). Additionally, a seating portion (S) may be formed at the front end of the second frame (220) to protrude forward (in the -Y-axis direction) and configured to rest on the concave portion (G) of the first frame (210). The seating portion (S) may be configured to correspond to the length of the concave portion (G).

[0098] At this time, the weld (W) can be formed in the portion where the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) support each other in the front-rear direction. That is, the weld (W) can be formed at the point where the outermost part of the seating portion (S) of the second frame (220) comes into contact with the concave portion (G) of the first frame (210).

[0099] According to this configuration of the present invention, since one of the components of the module frame (200) (e.g., the first frame (210)) supports the remaining components (e.g., the second frame (220)) in an upward direction (outward direction), the contact state between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be stably maintained during the welding process. Therefore, weldability can be improved.

[0100] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the battery cells (110) housed inside the module frame (200) can be prevented from being damaged during the welding process by providing a concave portion (G).

[0101] Furthermore, such a support configuration (concave portion (G)) of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be formed on the entire edge of the first frame (210) or the second frame (220), such as the upper, lower, left, and right sides. In this case, since the concave portion (G) is inserted into the interior of another component, an insertion fastening configuration between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be realized. Accordingly, the mechanical bonding strength or assembly capability between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be improved.

[0102] Meanwhile, FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate an embodiment in which a concave portion (G) is provided in the first frame (210) and a seating portion (S) is provided in the second frame (220), but unlike the above embodiment, a concave portion (G) may be provided in the second frame (220) and a seating portion (S) may be provided in the first frame (210).

[0103] In addition, in the above embodiment, the concave portion (G), the seating portion (S), and the weld portion (W) can be configured in various forms, such as a straight shape as shown in FIG. 8, as well as at least a partially bent line shape.

[0105] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a front side exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a front side front view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a terminal (300). The terminal (300) may be configured to be electrically connected to an electrode lead (112) of a battery cell (110). The terminal (300) may include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. Additionally, the terminal (300) may be configured to be electrically or communically connected to a control device such as a BMS.

[0107] The terminal (300) may be provided on the side where the electrode lead (112) of the battery cell (110) is drawn out. For example, the terminal (300) may be provided on the front side of the module frame (200). The terminal (300) may be provided on the busbar frame (410). The terminal (300) may be two busbars (420) provided on the outermost side among a plurality of busbars (420).

[0108] The first frame (210) may be configured to cover at least partially the terminal (300). According to the above embodiment of the present invention, by configuring the first frame (210) to protect the terminal (300), the high-temperature venting gas or flames, etc., directed toward the terminal (300) of the battery module (10) in the event of an abnormal situation of the adjacent battery module (10) can be minimized.

[0109] Additionally, the terminal (300) may be configured such that at least a portion of it protrudes to the outside of the first frame (210). More specifically, the first frame (210) may be provided with a terminal hole (211) through which the terminal (300) passes. The terminal hole (211) may be configured such that at least a portion of the upper surface, front surface, left surface, and right surface of the first frame (210) passes through. Two terminals (300) may be provided, and the terminal holes (211) may be provided on both the left and right sides of the first frame (210).

[0110] A battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an insulating cover (500). The insulating cover (500) may be configured to electrically insulate the module frame (200) from the busbar (420) or the electrode lead (112). For example, the first frame (210) may be made of a metal material such as aluminum, and the insulating cover (500) may be made of plastic.

[0111] In particular, the insulating cover (500) may be configured to electrically insulate the first frame (210) and the terminal (300). The insulating cover (500) may be configured to wrap around the outer perimeter of the portion of the terminal (300) that is exposed to the outside.

[0112] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 11, the insulating cover (500) may be provided with a through hole (510). The through hole (510) may be configured to allow the terminal (300) to pass through to the outside. The through hole (510) may be provided at a position corresponding to the terminal hole (211). Accordingly, the terminal (300) may be configured to be exposed to the outside at least partially through the terminal hole (211) and the through hole (510).

[0113] The insulating cover (500) may be provided on the inner side of the module frame (500), particularly the first frame (210). That is, the insulating cover (500) may be provided between the first frame (210) and the terminal (300). Specifically, the insulating cover (500) may be inserted into the first frame (210) and assembled together with the first frame (210) to the cell assembly (100) and the busbar frame assembly (400).

[0114] As the insulating cover (500) is fitted between the first frame (210), the cell assembly (100), and the busbar frame assembly (400) as in the above embodiment of the present invention, assembly can be ensured compared to the conventional battery module in which the end plate forming the front and rear surfaces of the module frame is provided with an insulating cover on the inside and the insulating cover and the end plate are welded to the cell assembly.

[0115] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the possibility of the insulating cover (500) being separated when the internal pressure of the battery module (10) increases is minimized, thereby ensuring electrical insulation or structural stability.

[0116] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, separation of the cell assembly (100) and the insulating cover (500) by venting gas or flames is suppressed, thereby preventing the venting gas or flames from being discharged toward the front of the battery module (10). As a result, thermal runaway propagation between the battery modules (10) can be prevented.

[0118] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 13, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. Additionally, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a pack case (2). The pack case (2) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery modules (10). The pack case (2) may be formed in the shape of a rectangular box.

[0120] Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, the pack case (2) may be configured to accommodate components such as a Battery Management System (BMS), a current sensor, and a fuse for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery cells (110) inside.

[0122] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 14, a vehicle (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (3) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (3) may include a four-wheeled vehicle and a two-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] Although the present invention has been described above by limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. Explanation of the symbols

[0126] 3 : Cars 1 : Battery pack 2 : Pack Case 10: Battery Module 100 : Cell Assembly 110: Battery cell 111 : Cell case 112: Electrode Lead 200 : Module Frame H: Venting hole 210 : 1st frame 211 : Terminal hole 220 : 2nd frame W : Welded part G: Concave part S: Seating part P1, P2: Protrusions 300 : Terminal 400 : Busbar frame assembly 410 : Busbar frame 420 : Busbar 500 : Insulation cover 510 : Through hole

Claims

Claim 1 A battery module comprising: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells stacked in a first direction; and a module frame having a first frame and a second frame configured to accommodate the cell assembly by being interconnected along a second direction which is horizontally orthogonal to the first direction, wherein the front surface of the cell assembly has electrode leads drawn out and is covered by the first frame, the rear surface of the cell assembly has electrode leads drawn out and is covered by the second frame, and the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right surfaces of the cell assembly are configured to be divided and covered by the first frame and the second frame. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 A battery module according to claim 1, wherein the first frame is configured to accommodate a part of the cell assembly on one side, and the second frame is coupled to the first frame and configured to accommodate the remaining part of the cell assembly on the other side. Claim 4 A battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that the venting induction direction of the venting gas generated in the battery cell and the second direction are configured to be orthogonal. Claim 5 A battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the first frame and the second frame has a venting hole formed on its upper surface configured to discharge venting gas generated from the battery cell. Claim 6 A battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of battery cells are stacked face-to-face such that electrode leads are drawn out in the front-rear direction and a sealing portion in which the electrode leads are not drawn out faces upward. Claim 7 A battery module according to claim 1, wherein the first frame and the second frame each have an open end on the inner side, and the first frame and the second frame are configured such that the inner open ends face each other. Claim 8 A battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that a weld is formed at the inner open end where the first frame and the second frame face each other. Claim 9 A battery module according to claim 8, characterized in that the weld is configured in a line shape that is at least partially bent. Claim 10 A battery module according to claim 1, further comprising a terminal electrically connected to the electrode lead of the battery cell and configured such that at least a portion protrudes outward from the first frame. Claim 11 A battery module according to claim 10, wherein the first frame is configured to have a terminal hole through which the terminal passes. Claim 12 A battery module according to claim 11, further comprising an insulating cover provided between the first frame and the terminal and configured to electrically insulate the first frame and the terminal. Claim 13 A battery module according to claim 12, wherein the insulating cover is configured to have a through hole that penetrates the terminal to the outside. Claim 14 A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of paragraphs 1, 3 through 13. Claim 15 An automobile comprising a battery module according to any one of paragraphs 1, 3 through 13.

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