Battery module

Abstract

A battery module is disclosed. A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: a base plate; a plurality of battery cells located on the upper surface of the base plate; a top plate located above the plurality of battery cells and having a first venting hole; a top cover coupled to the upper surface of the top plate and having a separating line facing the first venting hole; and an insulating cover located between the top plate and the plurality of battery cells and having a second venting hole facing the first venting hole.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module. Background Technology

[0002] As the demand for portable electronic products such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and smartwatches increases significantly and electric vehicles become increasingly widespread, research on batteries installed in them, particularly secondary batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging, is actively underway.

[0003] Currently commercialized rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium, nickel-hydrogen, nickel-zinc, and lithium-ion batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are gaining attention for their advantages, such as the ability to charge and discharge freely with almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0004] These lithium secondary batteries primarily use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative active materials, respectively. The lithium secondary battery comprises an electrode assembly in which a positive plate and a negative plate, each coated with the positive and negative active materials, are arranged with a separator in between, and an outer casing, namely a battery case, that seals and houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

[0005] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified according to the shape of the casing into can-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a metal can, and pouch-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a pouch of aluminum laminate sheet.

[0006] Recently, secondary batteries are widely used for driving or energy storage not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium-to-large devices such as electric vehicles and Energy Storage Systems (ESS). A single battery module can be formed by housing multiple such secondary batteries together inside a module case while electrically connected. In this case, each secondary battery included in a single battery module can be referred to as a battery cell. Furthermore, multiple such battery modules can be connected to form a single battery pack.

[0007] However, when a battery pack contains multiple battery modules, and each module contains multiple battery cells, it may be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between modules or cells. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery module, it is necessary to suppress the propagation of this runaway to other battery modules or cells. If the propagation of thermal runaway between modules or cells is not properly suppressed, an event originating in a specific module or cell may trigger a chain reaction of thermal reactions in other modules or cells, potentially causing explosions or fires, or significantly amplifying their scale.

[0008] In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery module, gases or flames may be randomly released to the outside. If the release of such gases or flames is not properly controlled, they may be released toward other battery modules, potentially causing a thermal chain reaction in those modules. Specifically, module terminals may be located on the front side of a battery module to provide electrical connections to other battery modules or battery packs, such as module busbars. Therefore, if flames are released toward the front of such a battery module, they can damage the module terminals within the battery pack and cause an electrical short circuit. Furthermore, since other battery modules may be located in front of a specific battery module, if flames are released toward the front of that module, the emitted flames may spread toward other modules, making it easy for fire to spread between battery modules.

[0009] If thermal propagation between battery modules or between battery cells is not properly controlled, a rapid voltage drop in the battery module or battery pack may occur. This can lead to a sudden shutdown of the device equipped with the battery module or battery pack, causing unexpected damage. For example, if a sudden voltage drop in the battery pack occurs while an electric vehicle is in operation, there may not be enough time to move the electric vehicle to a safe location.

[0010] Furthermore, if thermal propagation between battery modules or battery cells is not properly controlled and a fire or explosion occurs suddenly, there is a high possibility of causing casualties to users. For example, if thermal runaway occurs in an electric vehicle and a certain amount of time is not secured before it progresses into a full-scale fire, the occupants may not be able to escape safely. The problem to be solved

[0011] Accordingly, the present invention is devised to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a battery module with an improved structure capable of appropriately controlling the emission of flames, etc. generated inside the battery module, as well as a battery pack including the same and an automobile.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a battery module capable of rapidly discharging venting gas when a thermal event occurs.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a battery module capable of blocking the inflow of venting gas.

[0014] However, the technical 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

[0015] A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose may include: a base plate; a plurality of battery cells located on the upper surface of the base plate; a top plate located above the plurality of battery cells and having a first venting hole; a top cover coupled to the upper surface of the top plate and having a separating line facing the first venting hole; and an insulating cover located between the top plate and the plurality of battery cells and having a second venting hole facing the first venting hole.

[0016] In addition, the above separator line may be configured to be detachable when a thermal event occurs from the battery cell.

[0017] Additionally, the insulating cover includes a protrusion that protrudes upward from the perimeter of the second venting hole, and the protrusion can be inserted into the interior of the first venting hole.

[0018] In addition, the above protrusion can support the top cover.

[0019] Additionally, the protrusion may extend along the circumference of the second venting hole.

[0020] Additionally, the insulating cover may further include a support member extending from the protrusion to the inside of the second venting hole.

[0021] In addition, the support member can support the top cover.

[0022] In addition, the separation line may extend along the perimeter of the first venting hole.

[0023] In addition, the above separation line can form a separation region.

[0024] In addition, the insulating cover includes a protrusion that protrudes upward from the perimeter of the second venting hole, and the protrusion can support the separation area.

[0025] In addition, the insulating cover may further include a guard protruding toward the plurality of battery cells.

[0026] In addition, the battery module further includes a pad disposed between the plurality of battery cells, and the guard can support the pad.

[0027] Additionally, the guards are provided in pairs, and the top of the pad may be located between the pair of guards.

[0028] In addition, the above pair of guards and the pad may extend along the length direction of any one of the plurality of battery cells.

[0029] In addition, the battery module may further include an adhesive member disposed between the insulating cover and the top plate.

[0030] In addition, a battery pack according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose includes a battery module according to the present invention.

[0031] In addition, an automobile according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose includes a battery module according to the present invention. Effects of the invention

[0032] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when gas or flame is generated inside a battery module, the discharge of such gas or flame can be appropriately controlled.

[0033] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the electrical safety of the battery module can be improved.

[0034] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, heat propagation can be suppressed.

[0035] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the transmission of thermal events due to external flames or gases of the battery module can be suppressed. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0036] 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 a drawing showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a diagram showing a separated configuration of a battery pack of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a drawing showing the battery module of Figure 2. Figure 4 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery module of Figure 3 separated. Figure 5 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery array of Figure 4 separated. Figure 6 is a drawing showing the top cover of Figure 4. Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part B of Figure 6. Figure 8 is a drawing showing the separation area in Figure 7 separated from the top cover. Figure 9 is a drawing showing the top plate of Figure 4. Figure 10 is an enlarged view of section C of Figure 9. Figure 11 is a drawing showing the insulating cover of Figure 4. Figure 12 is an enlarged view of section D of Figure 11. Figure 13 is a drawing showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line E-E' of Figure 12. FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 1. FIGS. 15 and 16 are drawings showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 1 when a thermal event occurs. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0037] 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, and 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.

[0038] 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 aspects of the technical concept 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.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a part of the battery pack of FIG. 1 separated.

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a bottom plate (110), a side wall (120), a pack cover (130), and a battery module (200). The bottom plate (110) may have a square plate shape. The bottom plate (110) may form the exterior of the battery pack.

[0041] The side wall (120) can be installed, coupled, fixed, fastened, or attached to the upper surface of the bottom plate (110). The side wall (120) can form the exterior of the battery pack. For example, the side wall (120) can be composed of four. The bottom plate (110) and the side wall (120) can provide space inside.

[0042] The pack cover (130) may have a square plate shape. The pack cover (130) may be installed, coupled, fixed, fastened, or attached to the side wall (120).

[0043] The battery module (200) may be installed, coupled, fixed, fastened, or attached within the internal space of the battery pack. The battery module (200) may be provided in multiple numbers. For example, the battery pack may include four battery modules (200).

[0044] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the battery module (200) of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery module (200) of FIG. 3 separated.

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a base plate (211), a battery cell (310), a top plate (250), a top cover (500), and an insulating cover (400).

[0046] The base plate (211) may have a square plate shape. The base plate (211) may form the exterior of the battery module (200).

[0047] The battery cell (310) may refer to a secondary battery. The battery cell (310) may have a pouch shape. However, the shape of the battery cell (310) is not limited to a pouch shape and may have various shapes such as a cylindrical shape or a rectangular shape. Additionally, the battery cell (310) may be provided in multiple quantities. Multiple battery cells (310) may be located on the upper surface of the base plate (211).

[0048] The top plate (250) may be positioned on top of a plurality of battery cells (310). The top plate (250) may have a square plate shape. The top plate (250) may cover a plurality of battery cells (310). Additionally, the top plate (250) may be provided with a first venting hole (251). The first venting hole (251) may penetrate the top plate (250). The first venting hole (251) may expose the battery cells (310) to the outside. Additionally, the first venting hole (251) may face a plurality of battery cells (310). Additionally, the first venting hole (251) may be formed in multiple numbers. A plurality of first venting holes (251) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. A plurality of first venting holes (251) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The top plate (250) may include a metal material.

[0049] The top cover (500) may be positioned on top of the top plate (250). Additionally, the top cover (500) may be installed, coupled, fixed, fastened, or attached to the upper surface of the top plate (250). The top cover (500) may have a square plate shape. The top cover (500) may include a heat-resistant material. The top cover (500) may include a fire-resistant material. The top cover (500) may include a flame-retardant material. For example, the top cover (500) may include a silicone material.

[0050] The top cover (500) may include a separation line (501). The separation line (501, score line) may be used as a general term including a perforated line (501, perforated line), a notching line (501, notching line), a cutting line (501, cutting line), a shredding line (501, shredding line), a tear line (501, tear line), or a separation line (501, separation line).

[0051] A separator line (501) may face a first venting hole (251). A separator line (501) may be provided to correspond one-to-one with a plurality of first venting holes (251). A plurality of separator lines (501) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. A plurality of separator lines (501) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0052] An insulating cover (400) may be positioned between a top plate (250) and a plurality of battery cells (310). Additionally, the insulating cover (400) may be installed, coupled, fixed, fastened, or attached to the lower surface of the top plate (250). The insulating cover (400) may have a square plate shape. The insulating cover (400) may also be referred to as an insulating film (400). The insulating cover (400) may have electrical insulation properties. The insulating cover (400) may include a heat-resistant material. The insulating cover (400) may include a fire-resistant material. The insulating cover (400) may include a flame-retardant material. For example, the insulating cover (400) may include a polycarbonate material.

[0053] Additionally, the insulating cover (400) may be provided with a second venting hole (401). The second venting hole (401) may penetrate the insulating cover (400). The second venting hole (401) may expose the battery cell (310) to the outside. Additionally, the second venting hole (401) may face a plurality of battery cells (310). Additionally, the second venting hole (401) may face a first venting hole (251). Additionally, the second venting hole (401) may be formed in multiple numbers. A plurality of second venting holes (401) may be provided to correspond one-to-one with a plurality of first venting holes (251). A plurality of second venting holes (401) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. A plurality of second venting holes (401) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0054] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (310), the venting gas (g) can flow through the second venting hole (401) and the second venting hole (401). Additionally, the venting gas (g) can be separated by the separator line (501) of the top cover (500) and discharged to the outside of the battery module (200).

[0055] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery array (300) of FIG. 4. Referring to FIG. 3 to FIG. 5, a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a frame (210), a heat sink (260), a battery array (300), a heat transfer member (240), a busbar frame assembly (220), and an end cover (230).

[0056] The frame (210) may include a base plate (211) and a side plate (212). The frame (210) may provide space inside. The side plate (212) may be composed of a pair. The base plate (211) and the pair of side plates (212) may be formed integrally. The frame (210) may form the exterior of the battery module (200). The top plate (250) may be installed, coupled, fixed, fastened, or attached to the side plate (212). For example, the top plate (250) may be coupled to the pair of side plates (212) by welding.

[0057] The heat sink (260) may be installed, coupled, fixed, fastened, or attached to the lower surface of the base plate (211). The heat sink (260) may have an internal fluid passage. The base plate (211) may include a pair of ports (261). Additionally, the internal fluid passage of the heat sink (260) may be in communication with the pair of ports (261). Cooling fluid may be supplied to and discharged from the internal fluid passage of the heat sink (260) through the ports (261).

[0058] A battery array (300) may include a plurality of battery cells (310) and pads (320). The plurality of battery cells (310) may be stacked or arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. Additionally, each battery cell (310) may be extended along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. A battery cell (310) may include a storage portion (311), a first sealing portion (312), a second sealing portion (313), and an electrode lead (314). The storage portion (311) may include an electrode assembly. Additionally, the electrode assembly may be housed by a cell case. The first sealing portion (312) may be a portion where the cell case is sealed. The first sealing portion (312) may protrude forward and backward, respectively, from the storage portion (311). The second sealing portion (313) may protrude upward from the storage portion (311). The electrode lead (314) may protrude forward and backward, respectively, from the first sealing portion (312). When a thermal event occurs, the venting gas (g) may be discharged through the second sealing portion (313).

[0059] A pad (320) may be placed between multiple battery cells (310). The pad (320) may be extended along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple pads (320) may be provided. Additionally, the pad (320) may have electrical insulation properties. The pad (320) may include a heat-resistant material. The pad (320) may include a fire-resistant material. The pad (320) may include a flame-retardant material. The pad (320) may have elasticity. For example, the pad (320) may include a silicone material. Referring to FIG. 5, a pad (320) may be provided for every two battery cells (310).

[0060] A heat transfer member (240) may be positioned between the battery array (300) and the base plate (211). The heat transfer member (240) may include a material with high thermal conductivity. Additionally, the heat transfer member (240) may attach or secure the battery array (300) to the base plate (211).

[0061] The busbar frame assembly (220) can be coupled to the front and rear sides of the battery array (300), respectively. The busbar frame assembly (220) can be electrically connected to the electrode leads (314) of the battery array (300).

[0062] The end covers (230) may be provided in pairs. Each pair of end covers (230) may cover the busbar frame assembly (220). The end covers (230) may form the exterior of the battery module (200).

[0063] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the top cover (500) of FIG. 4. FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of section B of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the separation area (510) in FIG. 7 separated from the top cover (500). FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the top plate (250) of FIG. 4. FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of section C of FIG. 9.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 6 through 10, a separation line (501) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may extend along the perimeter of a first venting hole (251). The separation line (501) may form a separation area (510). The separation area (510) may be an area surrounded by the separation line (501). The separation area (510) may be formed larger than the first venting hole (251). Alternatively, the separation area (510) may have a diameter larger than the diameter of the first venting hole (251).

[0065] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (310), the venting gas (g) can flow through the second venting hole (401) and the second venting hole (401). Additionally, the venting gas (g) can be separated by the separator line (501) of the top cover (500) and discharged to the outside of the battery module (200).

[0066] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles, etc. generated from the outside can be blocked from entering the battery module (200). By forming the separation area (510) larger than the first venting hole (251), the first venting hole (251) can support the separation area (510). As a result, even if foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles generated from the outside pressurize the separation area (510), the separation area (510) may not be separated. As a result, heat propagation to the battery module (200) can be blocked.

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the separation area (510) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to be separable when a thermal event occurs. When a thermal event occurs inside the battery module (200), the venting gas (g) discharged through the second sealing portion (313) of the battery cell (310) may pressurize the separation area (510) upward or in the +Z axis direction. At this time, the separation area (510) may be separated or removed from the top cover (500). By separating or removing the separation area (510), a third venting hole (502) may be formed. The third venting hole (502) may face the first venting hole (251) and the second venting hole (401). Additionally, the first venting hole (251), the second venting hole (401), and the third venting hole (502) may be connected.

[0068] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (310), the venting gas (g) can be discharged to the outside of the battery module (200) through the first venting hole (251), the second venting hole (401), and the third venting hole (502). As a result, heat propagation within the battery module (200) can be blocked.

[0069] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing the insulating cover (400) of FIG. 4. FIG. 12 is an enlarged drawing of section D of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line E-E' of FIG. 12.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an adhesive member (402). The adhesive member (402) may be disposed between an insulating cover (400) and a top plate (250). The adhesive member (402) may attach, combine, or fix the insulating cover (400) to the lower surface of the top plate (250). The adhesive member (402) may be extended along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The adhesive member (402) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple adhesive members (402) may be disposed along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0071] According to this configuration of the present invention, the adhesive member (402) can be stably fixed to the top plate (250).

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, an insulating cover (400) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a protrusion (410).

[0073] A protrusion (410) may be formed around the perimeter of the second venting hole (401). The protrusion (410) may protrude in an upward direction or in the +Z-axis direction. Additionally, the protrusion (410) may extend along the perimeter of the second venting hole (401).

[0074] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (310), the protrusion (410) can guide the venting gas (g) to flow upward.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, an insulating cover (400) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a support member (420).

[0076] The support portion (420) may extend from the protrusion (410). The support portion (420) may extend into the interior of the second venting hole (401). Additionally, the support portion (420) may extend along the circumference of the protrusion (410) or the circumference of the second venting hole (401).

[0077] According to this configuration of the present invention, the rigidity of the protrusion (410) can be improved. Additionally, the protrusion (410) can stably maintain its shape. Furthermore, the support member (420) can support the separation area by contacting the top cover (500). As a result, even if foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles, etc. generated from the outside pressurize the separation area (510), the separation area (510) may not be separated. As a result, heat propagation to the battery module (200) can be blocked.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, an insulating cover (400) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a guard (430). The guard (430) may protrude downward or in the -Z axis direction from the insulating cover (400). Additionally, the guard (430) may extend long along the front-rear direction or the X axis direction. A plurality of guards (430) may be provided. A plurality of guards (430) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y axis direction.

[0079] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (310), the guard (430) can block the venting gas (g) from flowing along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. As a result, the venting gas (g) can flow upward.

[0080] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 1. FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 are diagrams showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 1 when a thermal event occurs.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, a protrusion (410) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention can be inserted into the interior of a first venting hole (251).

[0082] According to this configuration of the present invention, the electrical safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. By inserting the protrusion (410) into the first venting hole (251) of the top plate (250), the top plate (250) and a plurality of battery cells (310) can be electrically insulated.

[0083] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. The protrusion (410) can guide the venting gas (g) to flow upward.

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, a protrusion (410) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may support a top cover (500). The protrusion (410) may support a separation area (510) of the top cover (500). Alternatively, the protrusion (410) may come into contact with the separation area (510).

[0085] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. Since the separation area (510) is supported by the protrusion (410), the separation area (510) may not be separated even if foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles, etc. generated from the outside pressurize the separation area (510) in a downward direction or in the -Z axis direction. As a result, foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles, etc. generated from the outside can be blocked from entering the battery module (200).

[0086] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, a support member (420) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may support a top cover (500). The support member (420) may support a separation area (510) of the top cover (500). Alternatively, the support member (420) may be in contact with the separation area (510).

[0087] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. Since the separation area (510) is supported by the support member (420), the separation area (510) may not be separated even if foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles, etc. generated from the outside pressurize the separation area (510) in a downward direction or in the -Z axis direction. As a result, foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles, etc. generated from the outside can be blocked from entering the battery module (200).

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, the width of the separation area (510) of the battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction may be formed to be larger than the width of the first venting hole (251) in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. Additionally, the width of the first venting hole (251) in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction may be formed to be larger than the width of the second venting hole (401) in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0089] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. Since the separation area (510) is supported by the top plate (250) or the insulating cover (400), the separation area (510) may not be separated even if foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles, etc. generated from the outside pressurize the separation area (510) in the downward direction or the -Z axis direction. As a result, foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles, etc. generated from the outside can be blocked from entering the battery module (200).

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 14 through 16, when a thermal event occurs, the venting gas (g) can separate the separation area (510). The venting gas (g) can pass through the first venting hole (251) and the second venting hole (401) to pressurize the separation area (510) in the upward direction or the +Z-axis direction. As a result, the separation area (510) can be separated from the top cover (500), and a third venting hole (502) can be formed. The venting gas (g) can be discharged to the outside of the battery module (200) through the third venting hole (502).

[0091] The vented gas (g) can flow between the top cover (500) and the pack cover (130). The vented gas (g) can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack through a venting device or gas valve provided in the battery pack.

[0092] At this time, the venting gas (g) flowing between the top cover (500) and the pack cover (130) can pressurize the unseparated separation area (510) in the downward direction or the -Z axis direction. The top plate (250) or the insulating cover (400) can provide support force (SF) to the separation area (510). Since the separation area (510) is supported by the top plate (250) or the insulating cover (400), the separation area (510) may not be separated even if foreign substances, venting gas (g), flammable particles, etc. generated from the outside pressurize the separation area (510) in the downward direction or the -Z axis direction. As a result, the venting gas (g) discharged to the outside of the battery module (200) can be blocked from flowing into the interior of the battery module (200) or other battery modules (200). Therefore, heat propagation of the battery module (200) and the battery pack can be blocked.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, a guard (430) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may protrude toward a plurality of battery cells (310).

[0094] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (310), the guard (430) can block the venting gas (g) from flowing along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. As a result, the venting gas (g) can flow upward.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, the pad (320) of the battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to have a height higher than that of the battery cell (310).

[0096] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (310), the venting gas (g) can flow along the space between the insulating cover (400) and the plurality of battery cells (310). At this time, the pad (320) can block the venting gas (g) from flowing along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. As a result, the venting gas (g) can flow upward.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, a guard (430) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention can support a pad (320). The upper end of the pad (320) can be formed higher than the lower end of the guard (430). As a result, the guard (430) can support the upper end of the pad (320).

[0098] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (310), the pad (320) can block the venting gas (g) from flowing along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. At this time, the pad (320) may bend or deform in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction due to the pressure of the venting gas (g). At this time, by supporting the pad (320) with the guard (430), the pad (320) can stably block the flow of the venting gas (g). As a result, the venting gas (g) can flow upward.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, a pad (320) of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be positioned between a pair of guards (430). The upper end of the pad (320) may be positioned between a pair of guards (430).

[0100] According to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery module (200) can be improved. A pair of guards (430) can support the pad (320) from bending or deforming to the left or right.

[0101] A battery pack according to the present invention may include one or more battery modules (200) according to the present invention as described above. For example, a battery pack according to the present invention may be configured to include a pack housing so that a plurality of battery modules (200) according to the present invention are included therein. At this time, when the battery modules (200) according to the present invention are housed, the effect of preventing heat propagation between battery modules (200) is excellent in emergency situations such as thermal runaway, and sufficient time for a user to respond or escape can be secured.

[0102] In addition, the battery pack according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery module (200), such as a BMS, a busbar, a relay, a current sensor, etc., and various other components of a battery pack known at the time of filing the present invention.

[0103] Meanwhile, components such as a BMS, busbar, relay, and current sensor may be included as components of the battery module (200) according to the present invention. In this case, components such as a BMS, busbar, relay, and current sensor may be provided inside a case. At this time, the battery module may be referred to as a battery pack, and the case may be referred to as a pack housing. Furthermore, in this case, the battery module according to the present invention may be a cell-to-pack type battery pack in which a battery cell is directly mounted in the pack housing.

[0104] The battery module (200) according to the present invention may be applied to a vehicle such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, the vehicle according to the present invention may include the battery module (200) according to the present invention or the battery pack according to the present invention. In addition, the vehicle according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery module (200) or the battery pack. For example, the vehicle according to the present invention may further include, in addition to the battery module (200) according to the present invention, a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0105] As described above, although the present invention has been explained 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

[0106] 110: Bottom plate 120: Sidewall 130: Pack Cover 200: Battery module 210: Frame 211: Base Plate 212: Side Plate 220: Busbar frame assembly 230: End cover 240: Heat transfer element 250: Top Plate 251: First Venting Hall 260: Heat Sink 261: Port 300: Battery array 310: Battery cell 311: Storage compartment 312: 1st sealing section 313: Second sealing section 314: Electrode Lead 320: Pad 400: Insulation cover 401: Second Venting Hall 402: Adhesive member 410: Protrusion 420: Support 430: Guard 500: Top Cover 501: Separator line 502: 3rd Venting Hall 510: Separation area

Claims

Claim 1 A battery module comprising: a base plate; a plurality of battery cells located on the upper surface of the base plate; a top plate located above the plurality of battery cells and having a first venting hole; a top cover coupled to the upper surface of the top plate and having a separating line facing the first venting hole; and an insulating cover located between the top plate and the plurality of battery cells and having a second venting hole facing the first venting hole, wherein the insulating cover includes a protrusion protruding upward from the perimeter of the second venting hole, and the protrusion is inserted into the interior of the first venting hole. Claim 2 In claim 1, the separator is configured to be detachable from the battery cell when a thermal event occurs. Claim 3 delete Claim 4 In claim 1, the protrusion is a battery module that supports the top cover. Claim 5 In claim 1, the protrusion is a battery module extending along the perimeter of the second venting hole. Claim 6 A battery module according to claim 1, wherein the insulating cover further comprises a support member extending from the protrusion into the interior of the second venting hole. Claim 7 In claim 6, the support member is a battery module that supports the top cover. Claim 8 In claim 1, the separation line is a battery module extending along the perimeter of the first venting hole. Claim 9 In claim 1, the separator line is a battery module forming a separation region. Claim 10 In claim 9, the protrusion is a battery module that supports the separation region. Claim 11 In claim 1, the insulating cover further comprises a guard protruding toward the plurality of battery cells. Claim 12 In claim 11, the battery module further comprises a pad disposed between the plurality of battery cells, and the guard supports the pad. Claim 13 In claim 12, the guards are provided in pairs, and the top of the pad is located between the pair of guards in a battery module. Claim 14 In claim 13, the pair of guards and the pads are a battery module extending along the longitudinal direction of any one of the plurality of battery cells. Claim 15 A battery module according to claim 1, further comprising an adhesive member disposed between the insulating cover and the top plate. Claim 16 A battery pack comprising a battery module of any one of claims 1, 2, or 4 through 15. Claim 17 An automobile comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1, 2, or 4 through 15.

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