The battery pack and the vehicle include this battery pack.

Abstract

The invention relates to a battery pack. The battery pack, according to a scheme of the invention, comprises at least one battery module consisting of multiple battery cells; a base plate supporting the battery module from its bottom; a battery pack enclosure which is coupled to the base plate and covers the side of the battery module; a first heat sink which is placed under the base plate and in which the first flow path through which the coolant flows is formed; and a second heat sink which covers the top of the battery module and in which the second flow path through which the coolant flows is formed.

Description

Battery pack and vehicle including same

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack and a vehicle including the same.

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries are batteries that can be charged and discharged, and are used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) that are driven by electrical power sources.

[0003] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, for example, a unit battery cell, is approximately 2.5 V to 4.6 V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, a battery pack is formed by connecting multiple battery cells in series and / or parallel. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common to first configure at least one battery cell, or at least one battery module composed of multiple battery cells, and then add other components to form the battery pack. Here, a battery module refers to a component in which multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel, and a battery pack refers to a component in which multiple battery modules are connected in series or parallel to increase capacity and output. Battery packs composed of multiple battery modules in this way can experience abnormal phenomena such as thermal runaway, and various safety devices are being designed and developed to prepare for such cases.

[0005] The present invention provides a battery pack capable of controlling the temperature of the battery pack to a predetermined temperature or lower when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack.

[0006] In another aspect, the present invention improves the heat dissipation effect of a battery pack.

[0007] In another aspect, the present invention prevents or suppresses structural collapse of a battery pack.

[0008] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0009] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: at least one battery module including a plurality of battery cells; a base plate supporting the battery module from below; a pack housing coupled to the base plate and covering a side of the battery module; a first heat sink positioned on one side of the base plate and having a first flow path formed therein through which a coolant flows; and a second heat sink covering the battery module from the upper side and having a second flow path formed therein through which a coolant flows.

[0010] In one aspect of the present invention, the first heat sink is disposed at a lower portion of the base plate.

[0011] In one aspect of the present invention, the second heat sink is coupled to the upper portion of the pack housing to cover the upper portion of the battery module.

[0012] In one aspect of the present invention, the first heat sink may be configured to be bonded to a lower portion of the base plate.

[0013] In another aspect of the present invention, the first euro may be configured to be formed by a space formed between the base plate and the first heat sink.

[0014] In another aspect of the present invention, the second heat sink may include a metal material.

[0015] In one aspect of the present invention, the second flow path formed in the second heat sink may have a form in which the interior of the second heat sink is penetrated.

[0016] In another aspect of the present invention, the second heat sink and the second flow path formed inside the second heat sink can be extruded.

[0017] In another aspect of the present invention, a plurality of second flow paths may be formed inside the second heat sink manufactured by extrusion molding, and each of the plurality of second flow paths is connected to each other.

[0018] In another aspect of the present invention, the second heat sink may include a second inlet provided at one end of the second flow path and configured to allow a coolant to flow in; and a second outlet provided at the other end of the second flow path and configured to allow a coolant to flow out.

[0019] In one aspect of the present invention, the cooling liquid flowing inside the first heat sink and the second heat sink can be configured to be circulated.

[0020] In another aspect of the present invention, a refractory sheet may be further included between the second heat sink and the battery module.

[0021] The above refractory sheet may include a refractory material.

[0022] For example, the refractory sheet may include at least one of HPI, FRB, and Mica.

[0023] In another aspect of the present invention, the refractory sheet can be configured to directly block flames generated inside the battery pack, thereby preventing the generated flames from reaching the second heat sink.

[0024] In one aspect of the present invention, a cooling port assembly configured to be connected to the second inlet and the second outlet may be included.

[0025] In addition, the present invention provides a vehicle including at least one battery pack according to the above-described embodiment.

[0026] A battery pack case according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a base plate for supporting a battery module from below; a pack housing coupled to the base plate and covering a side of the battery module; and a pack lid covering the battery module and having a second flow path formed therein through which a coolant flows.

[0027] The battery pack case further includes a first heat sink positioned on one side of the base plate and having a first flow path formed therein through which a cooling liquid flows.

[0028] The second euro formed in the pack lead has a shape in which the inside of the pack lead is perforated and can be extruded.

[0029] According to the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery pack, the temperature of the battery pack can be controlled below a predetermined temperature.

[0030] In addition, according to the present invention, the heat dissipation effect of the battery pack can be improved.

[0031] Furthermore, according to the present invention, structural collapse of a battery pack can be prevented or suppressed.

[0032] The effects that can be obtained through the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and other technical effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0033] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention described below, serve to further understand the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 1.

[0036] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the front.

[0037] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a base plate and a first heat sink according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a second heat sink according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a second heat sink according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a second heat sink and a refractory sheet according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a second heat sink and a refractory sheet according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a cooling process of a battery pack when a fire occurs inside the battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] In some of the accompanying drawings, corresponding components are designated by the same reference numerals. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the drawings illustrate elements simply and clearly and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, to facilitate understanding of various embodiments, the dimensions of some elements depicted in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements. Furthermore, elements of known technology that are useful or essential in commercially feasible embodiments may often not be depicted so as not to obscure the spirit of various embodiments of the present invention.

[0045] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Accordingly, in some embodiments, well-known process steps, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques may not be specifically described to avoid ambiguity in the interpretation of the present invention. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0046] In order to clearly represent multiple layers and regions in the drawings, the thickness may be enlarged. Similar parts are designated by the same drawing reference numerals throughout the specification. When an element such as a layer, film, region, or plate is said to be "over" another element, this may include not only the case where it is "directly over" the other element, but also the case where there are other elements in between. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly over" another element, this may mean that there are no other elements in between. Furthermore, when an element such as a layer, film, region, or plate is said to be "under" another element, this may include the case where it is "directly under" the other element, but also the case where there are other elements in between. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly under" another element, this may mean that there are no other elements in between.

[0047] The statement that two compared objects are identical means "substantially identical." Therefore, "substantially identical" may include deviations considered low in the art, such as deviations of less than 5%. Furthermore, uniformity of a parameter over a given region may also mean uniformity on average.

[0048] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0049] Any configuration being placed "on (or below)" a component or "on (or below)" a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, but also that other configurations may intervene between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0050] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0051] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C to D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0052] Recently, battery packs used in automobiles have become increasingly required to control the maximum temperature outside the battery pack cover. For example, if a thermal runaway event occurs in a battery pack installed in a vehicle, the temperature inside the battery pack can become excessively high or flames can leak out, making it difficult for passengers to escape and potentially causing injury.

[0053] The present invention provides a battery pack capable of controlling the temperature of the battery pack to a predetermined temperature or lower even when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack mounted on a vehicle.

[0054] Fig. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from the front.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the battery pack (1) includes at least one battery module (10), a base plate (20), a pack housing (30), a first heat sink (40), and a second heat sink (50) that functions as a cover plate (pack lid). The battery pack (1) may further include a refractory sheet (60) between the second heat sink (50) and the module (10).

[0056] The battery module (10) may include at least one battery cell (not shown). Here, the battery cell may be a secondary battery, and may be provided as a pouch-type secondary battery, a square secondary battery, or a cylindrical secondary battery. For example, when the plurality of battery cells are provided as secondary batteries, and are pouch-type secondary batteries, each battery cell may be provided with an electrode lead at a front end and / or a rear end, and a positive electrode lead may be provided at a front end and a negative electrode lead may be provided at a rear end. The plurality of battery cells may be arranged so as to be electrically connected to each other. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of battery cells may be arranged to be stacked along one direction. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and it goes without saying that other types of secondary batteries, for example, a cylindrical secondary battery or a square secondary battery, may also be applied to the present invention.

[0057] In the present invention, an embodiment in which the battery pack (1) includes a battery module (10) has been described as an example, but a battery pack (1) including a battery cell without the battery module (10), i.e., a battery pack (1) having a cell-to-pack structure, may also be included in the scope of the present invention.

[0058] Referring again to FIGS. 1 to 3, the battery pack (1) may include a base plate (20) that supports the battery module (10) from below. The base plate (20) may be configured to have a substantially plate shape. The base plate (20) may be configured to have a planar shape extending approximately horizontally. The base plate (20) may serve as a base that supports the battery module (10). For example, at least one battery module (10) may be mounted on the base plate (20). The base plate (20) may include, for example, a plastic or metal material.

[0059] The battery pack (1) may include the pack housing (30). The pack housing (30) may be configured to cover a side of at least one battery module (10). For example, the pack housing (30) may be configured to cover a periphery of at least one battery module (10) mounted on a base plate (20). The pack housing (30) may be configured to be coupled to the base plate (20). For example, the pack housing (30) may be mounted on the base plate (20). For example, the pack housing (30) may be mounted on the base plate (20) in a state where it is erected in a direction perpendicular to the base plate (20). The pack housing (30) may be mounted along an edge of the base plate (20). The pack housing (30) may be configured as a substantially vertical plane extending upward from an edge of the base plate (20). The pack housing (30) may be composed of, for example, a front cover, a right cover, a left cover, and a rear cover. The front cover, right cover, left cover, and rear cover of the pack housing (30) may exist as separate components while being combined with each other. Alternatively, the front cover, right cover, left cover, and rear cover of the pack housing (30) may be formed as an integral part.

[0060] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a base plate (20) and a first heat sink (40) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first heat sink (40) may be configured to release heat generated from the battery cell and battery module (10) to the outside. The first heat sink (40) may be positioned below the base plate (20). According to one embodiment, the first heat sink (40) may have a first flow path (41) formed therein through which a cooling liquid flows. The cooling liquid may correspond to, for example, coolant or cooling oil. However, it should be understood that the type of the cooling liquid of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0062] In one aspect of the present invention, a first inlet (42) configured to allow a coolant to flow in may be provided at one end of the first flow path (41). A first outlet (43) configured to allow the coolant to flow out may be provided at the other end of the first flow path (41). That is, the coolant may flow into the first inlet (42), flow through the first flow path (41), and then be discharged from the first heat sink (40) through the first outlet (43). In the process, the coolant may effectively cool the battery module (10) mounted on the base plate (20).

[0063] In another aspect of the present invention, at least one first flow path (41) may be provided on the first heat sink (40). However, for smooth cooling of the battery pack (1), a plurality of first flow paths (41) may be provided. For example, referring to FIG. 4, a plurality of first flow paths (41) may be provided along the horizontal direction of the battery pack (1). In this case, the plurality of first flow paths (41) may be arranged in a parallel state to each other.

[0064] According to the structure described above, the coolant flowing through the first flow path (41) can indirectly perform heat exchange with the battery module (10) through heat exchange with the base plate (20). For example, since the first heat sink (40) is located at the lower portion of the base plate (20), heat generated at the lower portion of the battery module (10) adjacent to the base plate (20) can be effectively removed, and the heat dissipation effect at the lower portion of the battery module (10) can be improved.

[0065] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a second heat sink (50) that serves as a cover plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 5, the second heat sink (50) may be configured to release heat generated from the battery cell and battery module (10) to the outside. According to one embodiment, the second heat sink (50) may be configured to cover the upper portion of the battery module (10) as a cover plate. For example, the second heat sink (50) may function as an upper cover or upper lid of the battery pack (1). The second heat sink (50) may be configured to be coupled to the pack housing (30). For example, the second heat sink (50) may be mounted on the upper portion of the pack housing (30) and coupled to each other. In addition, the second heat sink (50) and the base plate (20) may be arranged in a state parallel to each other, and the pack housing (30) may be interposed between the second heat sink (50) and the base plate (20) in a state perpendicular to the second heat sink (50) and the base plate (20).

[0067] The second heat sink (50) may be provided with a second flow path (51) through which a coolant flows. The coolant may be, for example, coolant water or coolant oil. However, it should be understood that the type of coolant of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0068] In one aspect of the present invention, a second inlet (52) configured to allow a coolant to flow in may be provided at one end of the second flow path (51). A second outlet (53) configured to allow the coolant to flow out may be provided at the other end of the second flow path (51). That is, the coolant may flow into the second inlet (52), flow through the second flow path (51), and then be discharged from the second heat sink (50) through the second outlet (53). In the process, the coolant may effectively cool the battery module (10) located below the second heat sink (50).

[0069] In another aspect of the present invention, at least one second flow path (51) may be provided in the second heat sink (50). However, in order to smoothly cool the battery pack (1), a plurality of second flow paths (51) may be provided. For example, referring to FIG. 5, a plurality of second flow paths (51) may be provided along the horizontal direction of the battery pack (1). At this time, the plurality of second flow paths (51) may be arranged in a parallel state to each other. The second flow path (51) may be integrally formed in the form of a through hole penetrating from the second inlet (52) to the second outlet (53) inside the plate body constituting the second heat sink (50). The second flow path (51) may be formed, for example, in a straight shape.

[0070] According to the above structure, the coolant flowing through the second flow path (51) can perform heat exchange with the battery module (10) located below the second heat sink (50). Since the second heat sink (50) is located above the battery module (10), heat generated in the upper portion of the battery module (10) adjacent to the second heat sink (50) can be effectively removed. For example, the second heat sink (50) can improve the heat dissipation effect of the upper portion of the battery module (10). Therefore, according to the above structure, since an additional heat sink is provided above the battery module (10), the high-temperature battery pack (1) caused by high-temperature venting gas and / or flame can be effectively cooled. For example, according to the above structure, even if a thermal event occurs inside the battery pack (1), the maximum temperature can be maintained at about 300°C to 400°C or less.

[0071] In one aspect of the present invention, the cooling liquid flowing inside the first heat sink (40) and the second heat sink (50) can be configured to be circulated.

[0072] For example, referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first heat sink (40) may include a plurality of first inlets (42) and a plurality of first outlets (43). At this time, a cooling port assembly (not shown) configured to be connected to the first inlets (42) may be connected to the plurality of first inlets (42). In addition, a cooling port assembly (not shown) configured to be connected to the first outlets (43) may be connected to the plurality of first outlets (43). In this way, it may be possible to supply a coolant from the outside through the cooling port assembly and simultaneously discharge the coolant to the outside. At this time, the coolant discharged to the outside through the cooling port assembly may be configured to be re-cooled externally and then circulated back toward the first inlet (42).

[0073] The second heat sink (50) may include a plurality of second inlets (52) and a plurality of second outlets (53). At this time, a cooling port assembly (55) configured to be connected to the second inlets (52) may be connected to the plurality of second inlets (52). In addition, a cooling port assembly (56) configured to be connected to the second outlets (53) may be connected to the plurality of second outlets (53). In this way, it may be possible to supply a cooling liquid from the outside through the cooling port assemblies (55, 56) and simultaneously discharge the cooling liquid to the outside. At this time, the cooling liquid discharged to the outside through the cooling port assemblies (55, 56) may be configured to be re-cooled externally and then circulated back toward the second inlet (52).

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, in one aspect of the present invention, the first heat sink (40) may be configured to be joined to the lower portion of the base plate (20). For example, the first heat sink (40) may be configured to be in contact with and joined to the lower surface of the base plate (20). For example, the upper surface of the first heat sink (40) and the lower surface of the base plate (20) may be joined to each other by welding. Alternatively, the upper surface of the first heat sink (40) and the lower surface of the base plate (20) may be joined to each other by soldering. However, the joining method between the upper surface of the first heat sink (40) and the lower surface of the base plate (20) is not limited thereto, and as long as the structures can be joined to each other, the joining method between the upper surface of the first heat sink (40) and the base plate (20) is not limited.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 4, in another aspect of the present invention, the first flow path (41) may be configured to be formed in the space between the base plate (20) and the first heat sink (40). For example, the first heat sink (40) may have a structure having a substantially plate shape and a predetermined groove formed on the upper surface. At this time, when the upper surface of the first heat sink (40) is in contact with and coupled to the lower surface of the base plate (20), the predetermined groove formed on the upper surface of the first heat sink (40) may function as the first flow path (41). According to one embodiment, in FIG. 4, a groove having a substantially rectangular cross-section is configured to be formed on the upper surface of the first heat sink (40), but the shape of the cross-section of the groove is not limited thereto.

[0076] According to this structure, since the coolant comes into direct contact with the base plate (20), the cooling efficiency can be further improved. For example, according to the structure described above, since the number of components interposed between the coolant and the battery module (10) is reduced, further improvement in cooling efficiency can be expected.

[0077] In another aspect of the present invention, the second heat sink (50) may include, for example, a metal material.

[0078] Since metal materials have superior thermal conductivity compared to other materials, the second heat sink (50) itself can also perform a heat dissipation function. For example, the second heat sink (50) may include steel or stainless steel. However, it should be understood that the type of metal is not limited thereto.

[0079] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 5, the second heat sink (50) may include a plurality of second filaments (51).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the second heat sink (50) may be manufactured by applying an extrusion molding method, so that the second flow path (51) may be configured to have a shape in which the interior of the second heat sink (50) is perforated. For example, referring to FIG. 5, the second flow path (51) may have a structure in which a substantially cylindrical shape is perforated within the second heat sink (50). According to the embodiment of FIG. 5, a plurality of cylindrical second flow paths (51) are provided, and the plurality of second flow paths (51) may be arranged parallel to each other. For example, the second flow paths (51) may be configured to extend in the front-rear direction. Meanwhile, in the above embodiment, the cross-section of the second flow path (51) is described as being limited to an embodiment in which the cross-section of the second flow path (51) is approximately circular, but the cross-section of the second flow path (51) is not limited thereto. The shape of the cross-section of the second flow path (51) of the present invention may be applied in various shapes, such as, for example, a square or a hexagon, depending on the process of optimizing process convenience and heat dissipation effect.

[0081] As described above, by applying the extrusion molding method in manufacturing the second heat sink (50), the second heat sink (50) having the second flow path (51) integrally formed inside can be manufactured relatively easily compared to manufacturing using other molding methods or sheet metal methods. In addition, when manufacturing the second heat sink (50) using the extrusion molding method to manufacture a second heat sink (50) of a relatively large size, there is an advantage in that a large second heat sink (50) can be manufactured relatively easily by manufacturing multiple second heat sinks (50) of a small size and joining them together.

[0082] In the present invention, since a plate-shaped second heat sink (50) having a second flow path (51) formed integrally therein is manufactured by an extrusion molding method, the second heat sink (50) itself can serve as an upper cover (pack lid), thereby enabling the second heat sink (50) and the upper cover (pack lid) of the battery pack (1) to be manufactured as an integral body without the need to manufacture the upper cover (pack lid) and the heat sink separately. For example, since the second heat sink (50) is formed in a plate shape having a second flow path (51) formed therein by an extrusion method, it can function as an upper cover (pack lid) of the battery pack (1) having a heat dissipation function in itself. Accordingly, according to the present invention, the energy density can be improved by reducing the volume of the battery pack (1).

[0083] In addition, since the second heat sink (50) itself is manufactured as an integral part that functions as an upper cover (pack lid), the size of the space interposed between the coolant and the battery module (10) can be reduced. Accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the battery module (10) can be improved.

[0084] In addition, according to the structure in which the second flow path (51) is formed by the extrusion method, the flow path formation can be performed more smoothly, and manufacturing convenience can be increased. Furthermore, according to the structure in which the second flow path (51) is formed by the extrusion method, unless a plurality of small-sized second heat sinks (50) are manufactured by being connected, the second heat sink (50) manufactured by the single extrusion method exists as a single structure that does not require separate bonding or joining, so the risk of damage or defects can be reduced.

[0085] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a second heat sink (50) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 6, the second flow path (51) may be configured to be connected to each other within the second heat sink (50). For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 6, the second inlet (52) and the second outlet (53) may be provided as a single unit. That is, the second flow path (51) may be configured to extend from the second inlet (52) to the second outlet (53). At this time, the shape of the second flow path (51) may be, for example, a zigzag shape. According to one embodiment, such a zigzag-shaped second flow path (51) may be extruded. For example, an extrusion method may be applied to the plate itself constituting the second heat sink (50) to form the zigzag-shaped second flow path (51) within the second heat sink (50). According to one embodiment, such a zigzag-shaped second flow path (51) may be extruded. For example, a zigzag-shaped second flow path (51) can be formed inside the second heat sink (50) by applying an extrusion method to the plate itself that constitutes the second heat sink (50).

[0087] With this structure, the number of second inlets (52) and second outlets (53) is reduced, and thus the number of cooling port assemblies coupled to the second inlets (52) and second outlets (53) is reduced. Accordingly, by reducing the number of parts, manufacturing costs are reduced, ease of maintenance is improved, and the possibility of defects is reduced.

[0088] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a second heat sink (50) and a refractory sheet (60) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIG. 7, the battery pack (1) may include a refractory sheet (60).

[0090] The above-described refractory sheet (60) may be provided in a state interposed between the second heat sink (50) and the battery module (10). The refractory sheet (60) may be configured to cover the lower surface of the second heat sink (50). For example, the refractory sheet (60) may be provided in a form attached on the lower surface of the second heat sink (50). According to one embodiment, the lower surface of the second heat sink (50) and the refractory sheet (60) may be bonded by a thermal interface material (TIM). The thermal interface material may be, for example, at least one of a thermal grease, a thermally conductive adhesive, and a phase change material. According to this configuration, thermal conductivity may be additionally improved, thereby improving the heat dissipation effect by the second heat sink (50).

[0091] The above refractory sheet (60) may be configured in a horizontally extending plate shape. Alternatively, the refractory sheet (60) may be configured in a sheet shape extending approximately parallel to the second heat sink (50).

[0092] Accordingly, according to the present invention, the refractory sheet (60) can effectively protect the second heat sink (50). For example, according to a structure in which the refractory sheet (60) is disposed below the second heat sink (50), when a thermal event occurs inside the battery pack (1), the second heat sink (50) is effectively protected by the refractory sheet (60), thereby preventing or suppressing structural collapse of the battery pack (1).

[0093] In one aspect of the present invention, the refractory sheet (60) may include a refractory material.

[0094] For example, the refractory sheet (60) may include at least one of HPI, FRB, and Mica. As the refractory sheet (60) includes a refractory material, the battery pack (1) of the present invention can effectively prevent or suppress structural collapse of the battery pack (1) due to high-temperature venting gas and / or flame.

[0095] According to the above structure, since the refractory sheet (60) including the refractory material covers the entire lower surface of the second heat sink (50), it is possible to prevent or suppress a high-temperature flame generated from a thermal event occurring inside the battery pack (1) from directly contacting the second heat sink (50). For example, according to the present invention, the refractory sheet (60) can be configured to directly block a flame generated inside the battery pack (1). Accordingly, structural collapse of the second heat sink (50) and the pack housing (30) can be effectively prevented or suppressed.

[0096] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a second heat sink (50) and a refractory sheet (60) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Referring to Fig. 8, the refractory sheet (60) may be provided in multiple pieces.

[0098] For example, a first refractory sheet (60) may be provided under a second heat sink (50), and a second refractory sheet (60) may be provided under the first refractory sheet (60). The compositions of the first refractory sheet (60) and the second refractory sheet (60) may be the same or different, but may be configured to have different components according to one embodiment. For example, the first refractory sheet (60) may include an HPI material, and the second refractory sheet (60) may include an FRB material. Opposite configurations are also possible, for example, the first refractory sheet (60) may include an FRB material, and the second refractory sheet (60) may include an HPI material. Alternatively, the first refractory sheet (60) may include an HPI material and the second refractory sheet (60) may include an HPI material.

[0099] Meanwhile, the number of the refractory sheets (60) is not limited thereto. For example, the refractory sheets (60) may be configured to be provided in three or more pieces.

[0100] According to this structure, by including a plurality of refractory sheets (60), it is possible to more effectively prevent or suppress high-temperature flames generated inside the battery pack (1) from directly contacting the second heat sink (50). Furthermore, when refractory sheets (60) of different materials are applied in a laminated manner, the refractory effect of each material can be supplemented, thereby maximizing the final refractory effect.

[0101] In another aspect of the present invention, the refractory sheet (60) may be additionally provided on the base plate (20).

[0102] For example, the refractory sheet (60) may be provided attached to the upper surface of the base plate (20) that supports the battery module (10) from below. At this time, the upper surface of the base plate (20) and the refractory sheet (60) may be bonded by a thermal interface material (TIM). The thermal interface material may be, for example, at least one of a heat-dissipating grease, a thermally conductive adhesive, and a phase change material. Accordingly, thermal conductivity may be additionally improved.

[0103] At this time, if a fireproof sheet (60) is additionally provided on the base plate (20), it is possible to effectively prevent or suppress high-temperature flames generated from the battery module (10) from damaging the base plate (20) and / or the first heat sink (40). That is, the fireproof sheet (60) can prevent or suppress flames from directly contacting the base plate (20) and / or the first heat sink (40). Accordingly, structural collapse of the base plate (20) and / or the first heat sink (40) can be effectively prevented or suppressed.

[0104] In another aspect of the present invention, the refractory sheet (60) may be additionally provided on the inner surface of the pack housing (30).

[0105] For example, the pack housing (30) may be provided with the refractory sheet (60) attached to the inner surface thereof. At this time, the inner surface of the pack housing (30) and the refractory sheet (60) may be bonded by a thermal interface material (TIM). The thermal interface material may be, for example, at least one of a heat-dissipating grease, a thermally conductive adhesive, and a phase change material. Accordingly, thermal conductivity may be further improved.

[0106] If the refractory sheet (60) is not provided on the inner surface of the pack housing (30), when a thermal event occurs on the side of the battery module (10), a flame may occur on the side of the battery module (10). At this time, the flame directly contacts the inner surface of the adjacent pack housing (30). Since the pack housing (30) is generally often made of a resin material rather than metal, if the flame directly contacts the pack housing (30), there is a high possibility that the pack housing (30) will melt and the structure of the battery pack (1) will collapse.

[0107] However, according to the above-described structure of the present invention, since a fireproof sheet (60) is provided on the inner surface of the pack housing (30), it is possible to prevent high-temperature flames generated from the battery module (10) from directly contacting the pack housing (30). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent or suppress high-temperature flames generated from the battery module (10) from damaging the pack housing (30). Accordingly, structural collapse of the pack housing (30) can be effectively prevented or suppressed.

[0108] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining the cooling process of a battery pack (1) when a fire occurs inside the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 9, a battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of battery modules (10). A battery cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells may be included inside the plurality of battery modules (10). Meanwhile, a first heat sink (40) for cooling the battery pack (1) from the bottom may be provided at a lower portion of the battery pack (1). A second heat sink (50) for cooling the battery pack (1) from the top may be provided at an upper portion of the battery pack (1). A refractory sheet (60) may be provided at a lower portion of the second heat sink (50). For example, the refractory sheet (60) may be interposed between the battery module (10) and the second heat sink (50).

[0110] Referring to FIG. 9, for example, a thermal event may occur at the lower side of the battery module (10) provided on the left. At this time, the first heat sink (40) located at the lower side of the battery pack (1) can effectively suppress the flame at a location adjacent to the flame. In this case, the first heat sink (40) can effectively lower the temperature of the lower side of the battery module (10).

[0111] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 9, for example, a thermal event may occur at the upper side of the battery module (10) provided on the right side. At this time, the second heat sink (50) located at the upper side of the battery pack (1) can effectively suppress the flame at a location adjacent to the flame. In this case, the second heat sink (50) can effectively lower the temperature at the upper side of the battery module (10).

[0112] According to the above structure of the present invention, since cooling by the second heat sink (50) is applied simultaneously as well as cooling by the first heat sink (40), a dual cooling effect can be achieved. For example, the second heat sink (50) can directly and efficiently cool high-temperature venting gas and / or flame existing under the second heat sink (50). Accordingly, according to the present invention, when a fire occurs in the battery pack (1), the temperature of the battery pack (1) can be prevented from excessively rising above a predetermined range. For example, according to the present invention, the maximum temperature of the battery pack (1) can be maintained at about 300°C to 400°C or less.

[0113] In addition, since flames generally tend to progress upward, the lower surface of the second heat sink (50) located at the top may become vulnerable to flames. However, according to the present invention, since the lower surface of the second heat sink (50) is protected by a fire-resistant sheet (60), the collapse of the structure of the second heat sink (50) can be effectively prevented or suppressed.

[0114] Meanwhile, in the drawings of the present invention, components such as bus bars, cooling units, and power terminals for electrical connection have been omitted for convenience of illustration. In addition, the battery pack (1) may further include various components, such as components of the battery pack (1) known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a BMS, a pack case, a relay, and a current sensor.

[0115] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 10, a vehicle (5) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle, and includes a battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (5) includes a four-wheeled vehicle and a two-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle (5) operates by receiving power from the battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition to the battery cell or the battery pack (1), the vehicle (5) according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle. For example, the vehicle (5) according to the present invention may further include a body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc., in addition to the battery cell according to the present invention.

[0117] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up and down are used in this specification, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that these terms are only for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the location of the target object or the location of the observer.

[0118] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to 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 idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the patent claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

[0119] The present invention can provide a battery pack capable of controlling the temperature of the battery pack to a predetermined temperature or lower when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack.

Claims

1. At least one battery module comprising a plurality of battery cells; A base plate supporting the battery module from below; A pack housing coupled to the base plate and covering the side of the battery module; A first heat sink positioned on one side of the base plate and having a first flow path formed therein through which a cooling liquid flows; and A second heat sink covering the battery module and having a second flow path formed therein through which a cooling liquid flows; Battery pack containing.

2. In paragraph 1 The above first heat sink is a battery pack disposed at the lower portion of the base plate.

3. In paragraph 1 The second heat sink is a battery pack that covers the upper part of the battery module.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery pack wherein the first heat sink is configured to be bonded to the lower portion of the base plate.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery pack configured such that the first euro is formed by a space formed between the base plate and the first heat sink.

6. In paragraph 1, The second heat sink is a battery pack comprising a metal material.

7. In paragraph 1, A battery pack in which the second heat sink formed in the second heat sink has a form in which the interior of the second heat sink is penetrated.

8. In paragraph 1, A battery pack in which the second heat sink and the second flow path formed inside the second heat sink are manufactured by extrusion molding.

9. In paragraph 1, A plurality of second passages are formed inside the second heat sink manufactured by extrusion molding, and each of the plurality of second passages is connected to a battery pack.

10. In paragraph 1, The above second heat sink, A second inlet provided at one end of the second euro and configured to allow cooling liquid to flow in; and A battery pack comprising a second outlet provided at the other end of the second euro and configured to allow coolant to flow out.

11. In paragraph 1, A battery pack configured such that the coolant flowing inside the first heat sink and the second heat sink is circulated.

12. In paragraph 1, A battery pack further comprising a refractory sheet interposed between the second heat sink and the battery module.

13. In paragraph 12, The above refractory sheet is a battery pack including a refractory material.

14. In paragraph 12, The above refractory sheet is a battery pack comprising at least one of HPI, FRB, and Mica.

15. In paragraph 12, A battery pack configured such that the above-mentioned refractory sheet directly blocks flames generated inside the battery pack, thereby preventing the generated flames from reaching the second heat sink.

16. In paragraph 10, A battery pack comprising a cooling port assembly configured to be connected to the second inlet and the second outlet.

17. A vehicle characterized by including at least one battery pack as described in paragraph 1.

18. Base plate for supporting the battery module from below; A pack housing coupled to the base plate and covering the side of the battery module; and A pack lid covering the above battery module and having a second flow path formed therein through which a coolant flows; Battery pack case including.

19. In paragraph 18, A battery pack case further comprising a first heat sink positioned on one side of the base plate and having a first flow path formed therein through which a cooling liquid flows.

20. In paragraph 18, The second euro formed in the pack lead has a shape in which the inside of the pack lead is penetrated, and is an extruded battery pack case.

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