Battery module, and the battery pack and vehicle that includes this battery module.

Abstract

The invention relates to a battery module. This battery module comprises battery cells, a module housing constructed to contain the battery cells, in which at least part of one surface of the module housing is perforated to form a vent, and a retainer arranged on the inner circumferential surface of the vent, and a stopper constructed to cover at least part of the vent, in which at least part of the stopper is fitted into the vent such that the retainer blocks the stopper in the interior of the module housing.

Description

Battery modules, battery packs containing the same, and vehicles

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

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0057161, filed on April 29, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0165205, filed on November 19, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] Secondary batteries, which boast high electrical properties such as high energy density and easy applicability across a wide range of product categories, are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electrical power sources. These batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for environmental friendliness and energy efficiency, not only because they can dramatically reduce fossil fuel use, but also because they produce no byproducts from energy use.

[0005] Commonly used secondary batteries today include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Furthermore, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery module or pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery module or pack can vary depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] As secondary batteries in the form of battery modules and battery packs with multiple battery cells connected in this way begin to be widely used, fire and explosion accidents are occurring, and battery safety issues are emerging as an increasingly important issue.

[0007] The present invention provides a battery module that can effectively prevent or delay the propagation of thermal runaway between cells by smoothly discharging gas or flames generated inside the battery module to the outside of the battery module when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module.

[0008] In addition, the present invention provides a battery module with improved safety and reliability by preventing gas or flames discharged outside the battery module when thermal runaway of the battery module occurs from flowing back into the battery module.

[0009] In order to solve the above problem, a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells, at least a portion of which penetrates one side to form a venting hole, and a catch portion provided on an inner surface of the venting hole; and a block member configured to at least partially cover the venting hole, and at least a portion of which is inserted into the venting hole to prevent separation into the inside of the module case by the catch portion.

[0010] The above venting hole and the catch portion are formed on the upper surface of the module case, and the block member can be configured to be inserted into the venting hole and seated on the catch portion.

[0011] The above-mentioned catch portion may be formed such that at least a portion of the inner surface of the venting hole protrudes inwardly from the venting hole.

[0012] The outer periphery of the above block member may be configured to have a shape corresponding at least partially to the catch formed in the venting hole.

[0013] The above-mentioned catch may be configured to be at least partially inclined toward the inside of the venting hole.

[0014] The above venting holes are provided in multiple numbers, and at least some of the plurality of venting holes may have the angle of the hanging portion configured to be differential.

[0015] The above-mentioned catch portion may be configured to be stepped inwardly of the venting hole.

[0016] The end of the above block member can be configured to be fitted into the above catch.

[0017] The above block member can be configured to be detachable to the outside by the pressure of the fluid inside the module case.

[0018] The block member may further include a joining member that joins one side of the module case and allows the block member to rotate.

[0019] It may further include an adhesive member interposed between the above-mentioned hook portion and the above-mentioned block member and configured to be melted by heat.

[0020] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0021] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0022] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a battery module case comprises a case body configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells; and a top plate configured to be coupled to the case body to form an upper surface, wherein at least a portion of the top plate penetrates to form a venting hole, a catch portion is provided on an inner circumference of the venting hole, and a block member that at least partially covers the venting hole and is configured such that at least a portion of the block member is inserted into the venting hole to prevent separation toward the inside of the case body by the catch portion.

[0023] The block member of the battery module case may be configured to be inserted into the venting hole and secured to the catch.

[0024] The above-mentioned catch portion of the above-mentioned battery module case may be configured to be at least partially inclined toward the inside of the above-mentioned venting hole.

[0025] The above battery module case may further include an end plate provided on at least one surface of the case body so as to face the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells.

[0026] In addition, the present invention provides a battery module including the battery module case.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present invention, a block member configured to be prevented from being separated into the inside of a module case by a catch formed on the inner surface of a venting hole closes the venting hole before thermal runaway occurs, thereby preventing contaminants from entering the inside of the battery module from the outside.

[0028] According to another aspect of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell, high-temperature gases, flames, oxygen, etc. generated in the battery cell are prevented from flowing back into the battery module, thereby suppressing the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells. Accordingly, the safety and reliability of the battery module can be improved.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, when a thermal runaway occurs in a block member, a venting hole is opened to smoothly discharge high-temperature gas or flames to the outside of the battery module, thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, an event resulting from thermal runaway, such as a fire or explosion, in a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules or a device equipped with the same can be prevented or delayed.

[0031] In addition, the present invention may have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment configuration, or an explanation of effects that can be easily inferred by a person skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0032] 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.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 3 may be a drawing showing cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0036] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 3, and is a drawing for explaining a catch included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a catch included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a catch included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a catch included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining separation of a block member during thermal runaway of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a catch included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 are drawings for explaining a joining member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are drawings for explaining an adhesive member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] 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.

[0047] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0048] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0049] Furthermore, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar components will be omitted, and the differences will be described.

[0050] Meanwhile, in the present invention, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used, but 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.

[0051] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean a left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may mean a front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on a horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction may mean an up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0052] Battery cells undergo chemical reactions during charging and discharging, which can lead to performance degradation if used in environments above or below optimal temperatures. Furthermore, if thermal control fails to maintain optimal temperatures, there is a constant risk of unexpected fire or explosion. Furthermore, battery modules, comprised of multiple battery cells, are structured to house the cells tightly within the module housing. Therefore, if a thermal event occurs in a single battery cell within the module, the resulting high-temperature gases and flames can spread to adjacent battery cells, potentially triggering a chain reaction of battery cell explosions, posing a significant risk.

[0053] In the present invention, when thermal runaway of a battery module occurs, a structure is provided that prevents heat accumulation inside the battery module by discharging high-temperature gas or flame generated inside the battery module to the outside, and prevents the discharged gas or flame from flowing back into the battery module.

[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a cross-section taken along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (100), a module case (200), and a block member (300).

[0056] The above battery cells (100) may be provided in multiple numbers. According to one embodiment, the multiple battery cells (100) may be provided by being stacked in one direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the multiple battery cells (100) may be stacked along the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0057] The battery cell (100) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The battery cell (100) may include an electrode assembly and a cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly. The cell case may accommodate the electrode assembly in a storage portion, and a periphery of the storage portion may be heat-sealed to form a sealing portion. The sealing portion may be provided on three of the four sides of the battery cell (100).

[0058] Additionally, a plurality of battery cells (100) may each be provided with an electrode lead (110). The electrode lead (110) is connected to the electrode assembly and may be extended to the outside of the cell case to function as an electrode terminal.

[0059] The electrode leads (110) may be provided as a pair, and the pair of electrode leads (110) may be extended from both ends of the battery cell (100), i.e., in the longitudinal direction (±Y direction). At this time, the pair of electrode leads (110) may be a positive lead and a negative lead. If necessary, the battery cell (100) may have a form in which the two electrode leads (110) are positioned only at one end in the Y-axis direction, for example, only at the end in the +Y-axis direction.

[0060] The battery cell (100) may be provided in an upright state with the surface that does not include the sealing portion facing downward. As illustrated in FIG. 2, etc., a plurality of battery cells (100) may be arranged in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and in a parallel manner in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). At this time, each battery cell (100) may have its sealing portion facing the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the up-and-down direction (Z-axis direction), and its storage portion facing the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0061] Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the battery cell (100), and various battery cells (100) may be employed to form the cell stack (100) of the present invention. In this embodiment, as illustrated in the drawing, a pouch-type secondary battery having a high energy density and easy stacking is targeted, but it is of course possible for a cylindrical or square secondary battery to be applied as the battery cell (100).

[0062] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the battery module (10) of the present invention may further include a busbar frame assembly (400). The busbar frame assembly (400) may be provided inside the module case (100) and configured to cover at least one side of the plurality of battery cells (100). In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the busbar frame assembly (400) may be coupled to the front and rear of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0063] The busbar frame assembly (400) may include a busbar frame (410) and a plurality of busbars (420). The busbar frame (410) may be arranged to be connected to the front and rear of a plurality of battery cells (100). The busbar frame (410) may have slits through which electrode leads (110) of the battery cells (100) may be drawn out in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction. In addition, the busbar frame (410) may be formed of a material having electrical insulation, such as a plastic material, and may be configured to allow a busbar (420) to be attached to an outer surface thereof.

[0064] A plurality of bus bars (420) are provided in the form of bars and are made of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc. as a means for connecting battery cells (100) in series and / or in parallel. The electrode leads (110) of the battery cells (100) pass through slits in the bus bar frame (410) and are drawn outward from the bus bar frame (410), and the portion drawn out in this manner can be attached to the surface of the bus bar (420) by welding or the like.

[0065] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the module case (200) may be configured to accommodate a battery cell (100). For example, the module case (200) may be configured to have an internal space and accommodate a cell stack (100) in the internal space. The module case (200) may be composed of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the accommodated battery cell (100).

[0066] A venting hole (H) may be formed in the module case (200). The venting hole (H) may be formed on one side of the module case (200). The venting hole (H) may be formed by penetrating at least a portion of one side of the module case (200). This venting hole (H) may be configured to discharge venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) to the outside of the module case (200).

[0067] For example, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a venting hole (H) is formed on the upper surface of the module case (200), and directional venting can be performed upward of the battery module (10) through the venting hole (H).

[0068] A plurality of venting holes (H) may be provided, and may be provided at regular intervals from each other in the horizontal direction (X-axis, Y-axis direction). According to one embodiment, a plurality of venting holes (H) may be provided for each of four battery cells (100) stacked in one direction.

[0069] Additionally, the module case (200) may be provided with a catch (S). According to one embodiment, the catch (S) may be formed on the inner surface of the vent hole (H). The vent hole (H) may be configured such that its cross-sectional area is at least partially reduced by the catch (S). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the vent hole (H) may be configured such that its cross-sectional area decreases toward the inside of the module case (200).

[0070] Meanwhile, the block member (300) may be configured to at least partially cover the venting hole (H). The block member (300) may be configured to be inserted into the venting hole (H) at least partially. For example, the block member (300) may be configured to fill the venting hole (H). The block member (300) may be fitted into the venting hole (H). For example, the block member (300) may be configured in a shape like a plug that fills the internal space of the venting hole (H). In addition, the block member (300) may be provided for each of a plurality of venting holes (H).

[0071] The block member (300) can be configured to prevent venting gas or flames, etc., emitted when a thermal event occurs within a battery module (10) from being transferred to another battery module (10).

[0072] To this end, the block member (300) may be made of a material having excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance, such as mica or a silicon composite material. Accordingly, the block member (300) is not easily deformed even when high temperature heat is generated, and thus maintains morphological stability, thereby stably blocking high-temperature gases or flames generated from the battery cell (100).

[0073] This block member (300) may be separated from the module case (200) by gravity, impact, heat, etc., thereby opening the venting hole (H). Accordingly, the block member (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to be prevented from being separated inward by a catch (S). The block member (300) may be inserted into a portion of the venting hole (H) where the cross-sectional area is reduced by the catch (S).

[0074] If the catch (S) is not provided, the block member (300) may be separated from the module case (200) due to gravity, impact, heat, etc., and the venting hole (H) may be opened even in a normal state. However, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, in a normal state before the occurrence of thermal runaway of the battery module (10), the block member (300) maintains the venting hole (H) closed, thereby preventing contaminants from entering the battery module from the outside.

[0075] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, high-temperature gases or flames generated externally can be prevented from flowing into the interior of the battery module (10), thereby suppressing thermal runaway propagation between battery cells (100). Therefore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the safety and reliability of the battery module (10) can be guaranteed.

[0076]

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, etc., the module case (200) may include a case body (210) and a top plate (220). The case body (210) may be configured to accommodate a battery cell (100). The case body (210) may be formed of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the accommodated battery cell (100).

[0078] The upper surface and the front and rear surfaces of the case body (210) may be open. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the case body (210) may be provided as a U-frame. When the case body (210) is provided as a U-frame, it may be provided to cover both sides and the lower surface of the plurality of battery cells (100). The case body (210) may include a left plate and a right plate that cover both sides of the plurality of battery cells (100), and a lower plate that covers the lower surfaces of the plurality of battery cells (100). In addition, the left plate, the right plate, and the lower plate may be configured in an integrated form.

[0079] The top plate (220) may be provided to form the upper surface of the module case (200). When the case body (210) is provided as a U-frame, the top plate (220) may be coupled to the open upper surface of the case body (210). According to one embodiment, the top plate (220) may be coupled to the case body (210) by welding. At this time, the shape in which the top plate (220) and the case body (210) are coupled may be a square tubular shape with open front and back surfaces.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 2 and the like, the module case (200) may include an end plate (230) provided on the open front and rear sides of the case body (210). The end plate (230) may be welded and joined to the case body (210). Meanwhile, although not shown for convenience, the end plate (230) may have an inner side facing the battery cell (100) made of an insulating material and an outer side made of a metal material, for example. In addition, the end plate (230) may be partially provided with holes or slits to expose components that need to be exposed to the outside, such as a positive terminal and a negative terminal of the battery module (10) or a connector.

[0081] In addition, the module case (200) may be formed in various other shapes. For example, the module case (200) may be provided with a box-shaped lower case having an upper open end and an upper cover that closes the upper open end of the lower case. Alternatively, the module case (200) may be provided with a monoframe. For example, the case body (210) may be configured in the shape of a square tube having an upper surface, a lower surface, a left surface, and a right surface, and having an open front and back surface.

[0082] As in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the venting hole (H) and the catch (S) may be formed on the upper surface of the module case (200), for example, the top plate (220). As a result, directional venting of the battery module (10) toward the top may be possible through the venting hole (H).

[0083] The block member (300) may be configured to be secured to the catch (S). When the block member (300) is inserted into the venting hole (H) formed on the upper surface of the module case (200), the block member (300) may receive a greater force directed toward the inside of the module case (200) due to gravity. At this time, as in the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the block member (300) may be prevented from falling toward the inside of the module case (200) by being secured to the catch (S).

[0084]

[0085] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 3, and is a drawing for explaining a catch (S) included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Referring to Fig. 4, the catch (S) may be formed by protruding at least a portion of the inner surface of the vent hole (H) in the inward direction of the vent hole (H). The catch (S) may also be provided on the lower side of the inner surface of the vent hole (H). The catch (S) may be formed in an overall diagonal shape as in the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 4, or may be formed in a shape in which a portion protrudes inward.

[0087] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when the block member (300) is inserted into the venting hole (H), the position of the block member (300) can be limited.

[0088] Meanwhile, the outer peripheral portion (part B of FIG. 3) of the block member (300) may be configured to have a shape that at least partially corresponds to the catch portion (S). Here, the outer peripheral portion of the block member (300) may mean not only the outer surface of the block member (300) but also a portion of the lower surface. Accordingly, the block member (300) may be configured to be inserted into the venting hole (H) and to be in complete contact with the catch portion (S) formed on the inner surface of the venting hole (H).

[0089] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the block member (300) and the catch (S) are tightly sealed without a gap, the possibility of high-temperature gas or heat flowing in from the outside through the gap between the block member (300) and the catch (S) can be blocked.

[0090] As an example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the catch (S) may be configured to be at least partially inclined toward the inside of the venting hole (H). The catch (S) may be configured in a diagonal shape inclined toward the inside of the module case (200). That is, the inner surface of the venting hole (H) may have an inclined surface. The angle of the catch (S) may be configured as an acute angle. In this case, the block member (300) may also be configured with an outer peripheral surface in a diagonal shape to correspond to the shape of the catch (S).

[0091] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, a catch (S) can be formed by simply processing the inner surface of the vent hole (H). In addition, the block member (300) can be brought into closer contact with the diagonal catch (S), thereby ensuring the fixing force of the block member (300). Accordingly, the penetration of high-temperature gases or heat from the outside can be further prevented.

[0092] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 4, the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an adhesive member (500). The adhesive member (500) may be interposed between the catch (S) and the block member (300). The adhesive member (500) may include an adhesive, an adhesive tape, or the like.

[0093] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the fixing force between the block member (300) and the catch (S) can be improved by providing the adhesive member (500). In addition, the block member (300) can be stably fixed to the top plate (220) of the module case (200) by the adhesive member (500).

[0094]

[0095] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the shape of the catch (S) and the block member (300) will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7.

[0096] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a catch (S) included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] In another embodiment, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the engaging portion (S) may be configured in a protruding shape. The engaging portion (S) may be configured such that concave and convex portions are formed alternately. The block member (300) may be configured in a shape that fits the shape of the engaging portion (S).

[0098] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, as the contact area between the block member (300) and the catch (S) increases, the block member (300) can be further prevented or suppressed from being separated from the vent hole (H). In addition, in the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive member (500) can be interposed between the catch (S) and the unevenness of the block member (300). Accordingly, the adhesive member (500) can be prevented from flowing downward due to the unevenness of the catch (S). As a result, the adhesive member (500) can be more stably interposed in the catch (S).

[0099]

[0100] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a catch (S) included in a battery module (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] In another embodiment, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the catch (S) may be configured to be stepped inwardly of the venting hole (H). The catch (S) may be configured to have a shape in which the step increases as it goes inwardly of the module case (200). That is, the catch (S) may be formed such that the lower side of the inner circumference of the venting hole (H) formed in the top plate (220) of the module case (200) protrudes inwardly of the venting hole (H). The cross-section of the venting hole (H) may be configured in the shape of an inverted hat.

[0102] At this time, the block member (300) may be configured to completely fill the venting hole (H). Alternatively, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the block member (300) may be positioned only above the catch portion (S). In this case, the block member (300) may be configured in the form of a flat plate. The height of the block member (300) may correspond to the thickness of the top plate (220) minus the thickness of the catch portion (S).

[0103] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, not only the outer surface of the block member (300) but also a portion of the lower surface can be in contact with the inner surface of the stepped venting hole (H). Accordingly, the block member (300) can be more stably seated on the engaging portion (S). In addition, in the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive member (500) can be interposed not only on the outer surface of the block member (300) but also on a portion of the lower surface. Accordingly, the fixing force between the block member (300) and the engaging portion (S) is further enhanced, and the penetration of high-temperature gas or heat from the outside can be further prevented.

[0104]

[0105] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a catch (S) included in a battery module (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] As another embodiment, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the end of the block member (300) may be configured to be fitted into the catch (S). For example, the catch (S) may have a groove formed so that at least a portion thereof is recessed. In addition, the end of the block member (300) may have a protrusion formed so that at least a portion thereof protrudes downward and is configured to be inserted into the catch (S).

[0107] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the block member (300) and the catch (S) are formed in a male-female joint structure, the block member (300) can be more stably secured to the catch (S).

[0108] In addition, in the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive member (500) can be interposed in a groove formed in the catch portion (S). Accordingly, the adhesive member (500) can be prevented from flowing downward. Accordingly, the fixing force between the block member (300) and the catch portion (S) can be further enhanced, thereby further preventing high-temperature gas or heat from penetrating from the outside.

[0109]

[0110] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining separation of a block member during thermal runaway of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 8, the block member (300) may be configured to be detachable to the outside by the pressure of the fluid inside the module case (200). At this time, the catch (S) may be configured to prevent the block member (300) from being detached to the inside of the module case (200), but not to be detached to the outside of the module case (200). By the shape of the catch (S) described above, the block member (300) can be smoothly detached to the outside of the module case (200) (for example, the upper side of the top plate (220)).

[0112] The adhesive member (500) may be configured to melt by heat. In one embodiment, the adhesive member (500) may be made of a material having a melting point of 150°C or lower.

[0113] For example, when a thermal runaway occurs within the battery module (10), the adhesive member (500) may melt due to the pressure of the gas discharged from the battery cell (100) and / or the high heat of dust or flame, etc., and the adhesive strength between the catch (S) and the block member (300) may be reduced. Accordingly, the block member (300) may be separated from the top plate (220) of the module case (200) by the discharge pressure of the venting gas or flame, etc. discharged in a straight line toward the venting hole (H) from the inside of the module case (200), and the venting hole (H) may be opened.

[0114] At this time, among the plurality of block members (300), only some of the block members (300) provided on the upper portion of the battery cell (100) where a thermal event that generates venting gas or flames has occurred can be separated from the top plate (220) of the module case (200). In addition, the remaining block members (300) except for the separated block members (300) can be maintained in a state of being coupled to the top plate (220) of the module case (200), so that the venting hole (H) can be maintained in a closed state.

[0115] In other words, the block member (300) can shield the venting hole (H) formed in the top plate (220) of the module case (200) in a normal state to protect the battery cells (100) inside the module case (200). However, when a thermal event occurs in which venting gas or flames are generated in some battery cells (100), the block member (300) is separated from the top plate (220) of the module case (200) to allow the venting gas or flames to be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10).

[0116] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the block member (300) can be completely separated from the top plate (220) of the module case (200), the venting hole (H) formed in the top plate (220) is exposed to the outside of the battery module (10), so that venting gas or flames, etc. can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) (see the thick solid arrow in FIG. 8). As a result, the occurrence of a thermal runaway phenomenon within the battery module (10) can be suppressed or delayed.

[0117] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the remaining block members (300) formed corresponding to the battery cells (100) in which no thermal event has occurred are still connected to the top plate (220) of the module case (200), thereby preventing venting gas or flames discharged through the open venting holes (H) from flowing back into the module case (200) (see the bold dotted arrows in FIG. 8). Furthermore, the block members (300) remaining in the portions of the module case (200) that are not separated from the module case (200) can block not only heat but also high-temperature gases, flames, discharged substances, etc. generated from the battery cells (100).

[0118] Accordingly, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module (10), not only can the gas or flame generated inside the battery module (10) be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10), but also the discharged gas or flame can be prevented from flowing back into the battery module (10). Accordingly, since the thermal runaway can be effectively prevented or delayed by minimizing the heat spread to neighboring battery modules (10), the safety and reliability of the battery module (10) can be improved.

[0119]

[0120] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a catch (S1, S2) included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 9, the speed or time at which the plurality of block members (300A, 300B) are separated from the top plate (220) of the module case (200) may be configured differently for each position. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, when the catches (S1, S2) are configured in an inclined shape, at least some of the plurality of venting holes (H) formed in the top plate (220) may be configured so that the angles of the catches (S1, S2) are differential. For example, as the angles of the catches (S1, S2) increase, the block member (300) can be more easily separated outward from the top plate (220) of the module case (200) at the catches (S1, S2).

[0122] As an example, in a group of battery cells (100), the angles of the catches (S1, S2) arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction of the battery cells (100) may be configured to be at least partially different from each other. Referring to FIG. 9, the angle of the catches (S2) provided on the inside may be smaller than the angle of the catches (S1) provided on the outside. Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in a group of battery cells (100), the block member (300A) provided on the outside may be separated from the module case (200) more quickly than the block member (300B) provided on the inside.

[0123] The differential configuration of the angles of the catches (S1, S2) according to these positions can be applied according to the venting induction direction of the battery module (10). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, by controlling the separation speed of the block member (300) by varying the angles according to the positions of the catches (S1, S2), it is possible to directional vent gas or flame generated inside the battery module (10) according to the venting induction direction of the battery module (10).

[0124]

[0125] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 are drawings for explaining a joining member (600) included in a battery module (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a joining member (600). The joining member (600) may be configured to join the block member (300) and one side of the top plate (220) of the module case (200). The joining member (600) may be provided on the inner circumferential surface of the venting hole (H) formed in the top plate (220). The joining member (600) may be provided on the outer upper portion of the block member (300). The joining member (600) may be provided on one side of the block member (300). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, the joining member (600) may be provided on the upper right side of the block member (300).

[0127] This connecting member (600) may be configured to be rotatable. In one embodiment, this connecting member (600) may be a hinge, but is not limited thereto. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the block member (300) may be configured to be rotated outward by the connecting member (600) to open the venting hole (H).

[0128] Furthermore, the coupling member (600) may be configured to include an elastic body to control the rotational motion of the block member (300). According to one embodiment, the coupling member (600) may be configured as a hinge spring. The block member (300) may be configured to rotate inward or outward through the coupling member (600) to open and close the venting hole (H).

[0129] The block member (300) may be configured to rotate to open the venting hole (H) formed in the top plate (220) so as to discharge venting gas and / or flame to the outside of the module case (200) when the pressure inside the module case (200) rises above the reference pressure due to thermal runaway of the battery cell (100). In this way, when the pressure inside the module case (200) is above the reference pressure, it may mean that the pressure inside the module case (200) is greater than the pressure outside the module case (200) due to the generation of venting gas, etc. In this case, the pressurizing force of the air inside the module case (200) applied to the block member (300) by the venting gas may be higher than the elastic force of the joining member (600) that tries to maintain the closed state of the block member (300). Therefore, when the battery cell (100) experiences thermal runaway, the block member (300) can be easily deployed toward the outside of the module case (200) due to the pressure difference between the outside and inside of the module case (200).

[0130] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas and / or flame can be quickly discharged to the outside through the open portion of the module case (200). In addition, the internal pressure of the battery module (10) can be quickly lowered as the venting gas is discharged.

[0131] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flame, etc. discharged from the venting hole (H) formed in the top plate (220) can be guided in one direction by the block member (300) rotated outward. Accordingly, the venting gas or flame, etc. can be directionally vented in one direction.

[0132] The block member (300) may be configured to close the venting hole (H) when the venting gas is discharged to the outside and the pressure inside the module case (200) drops below the reference pressure. In this case, when the pressure inside the module case (200) is below the reference pressure, it may mean that the venting gas is discharged to the outside and the pressure inside the module case (200) is lower than the pressure outside the module case (200). In this case, not only the pressing force of the air outside the module case (200) applied to the block member (300) but also the elastic force of the joining member (600) that tries to maintain the closed state of the block member (300) may be added. Therefore, when the venting gas is discharged to the outside and the pressure inside the module case (200) decreases, the block member (300) may smoothly rotate inwardly of the module case (200) due to the pressure difference between the outside and the inside of the module case (200) to close the venting hole (H).

[0133] Accordingly, when the thermal runaway within the battery module (10) is almost over and the amount of venting gas discharged is reduced, the venting hole (H) can be easily closed by the block member (300), thereby preventing the backflow of venting gas and / or flame into the module case (200). In addition, by blocking the inflow of oxygen into the module case (200), additional ignition within the module case (200) can be suppressed.

[0134]

[0135] FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are drawings for explaining an adhesive member (500) included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] As described above, when the block member (300) is separated, the adhesive member (500) may be configured to be melted by heat. At this time, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the adhesive members (510, 520) may be provided on both sides of the block member (300), and the adhesive strength may be configured differently depending on the location.

[0137] For example, the adhesive member (510, 520) may include a first adhesive member (510) and a second adhesive member (520). The first adhesive member (510) may be provided on one side of the block member (300), and the second adhesive member (520) may be provided on the other side of the block member (300) opposite to the side on which the first adhesive member (510) is provided. According to one embodiment, the first adhesive member (510) and the second adhesive member (520) may be formed of materials having different adhesive strengths. In addition, the first adhesive member (510) and the second adhesive member (520) may be formed of materials having different melting points.

[0138] For example, as in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, the adhesive strength of the first adhesive member (510) may be configured to be weaker than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive member (520). Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), the first adhesive member (510) may melt first, allowing only one side of the block member (300) to be separated from the catch (S). In this case, the non-melted second adhesive member (520) may function as the bonding member (600) described above.

[0139] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flame, etc. discharged from the venting hole (H) can be directed in one direction by the block member (300) rotated outward according to the action of the second adhesive member (520) that functions as a bonding member (600). Accordingly, the venting gas or flame, etc. can be directionally vented in one direction.

[0140] Moreover, at least some of the plurality of block members (300) may be configured such that the positions where the first adhesive member (510) and the second adhesive member (520) are provided are different from each other. Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), at least some of the plurality of block members (300) may be configured such that the directions in which they are separated are different from each other.

[0141] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the block member (300) provided on the left side of the battery module (10) may be provided with a first adhesive member (510) on the left side and a second adhesive member (520) on the right side. In addition, the block member (300) provided on the right side of the battery module (10) may be provided with a first adhesive member (510) on the right side and a second adhesive member (520) on the left side. Accordingly, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), the block member (300) provided on the left side of the battery module (10) may be separated toward the left side of the venting hole (H) by pressure such as venting gas or flame, and the block member (300) provided on the right side of the battery module (10) may be separated toward the right side of the venting hole (H). That is, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), the plurality of block members (300) can be separated in a direction symmetrical to each other with respect to the center of the battery module (10).

[0142] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flames, etc., discharged from at least some of the plurality of venting holes (H) can be directionally vented in different directions. Accordingly, the re-introduction of venting gas or flames, etc. between adjacent venting holes (H) can be further prevented or suppressed. Accordingly, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells (100) can be more effectively suppressed.

[0143]

[0144] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack (1) including a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 14, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. The battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include a pack case (2) for accommodating a BMS (Battery Management System), a current sensor, a fuse, and the like for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules (10), and the above-described components.

[0146]

[0147] FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle (3) including a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 15, a vehicle (3) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention or battery modules (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (3) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (3) includes a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheel vehicle. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from a battery pack (1) or a battery module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0149]

[0150] 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 claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells; A module case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells, having at least a portion of one side thereof penetrated to form a venting hole, and having a catch provided on the inner surface of the venting hole; and A battery module characterized in that it includes a block member that at least partially covers the venting hole and is configured such that at least a portion of the block member is inserted into the venting hole and is prevented from being separated into the inside of the module case by the catch.

2. In paragraph 1, The above venting hole and the above hanging portion are formed on the upper surface of the module case, A battery module characterized in that the block member is configured to be inserted into the venting hole and seated in the hanging portion.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned catch is formed by protruding at least a portion of the inner surface of the venting hole in the inward direction of the venting hole.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the outer peripheral portion of the block member is configured with a shape corresponding to the catch formed at least partially in the venting hole.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned catch is configured to be at least partially inclined toward the inside of the venting hole.

6. In paragraph 5, The above venting holes are provided in multiple numbers, A battery module characterized in that at least some of the plurality of venting holes have differentially configured angles of the hanging portions.

7. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned catch portion is configured to be stepped inwardly toward the venting hole.

8. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the end of the block member is configured to be fitted into the catch.

9. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the block member is configured to be detachable to the outside by the pressure of the fluid inside the module case.

10. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that it further includes a joining member that joins the block member and one side of the module case, and is configured such that the block member is rotatable.

11. In paragraph 1, A battery module further comprising an adhesive member interposed between the above-mentioned hook member and the above-mentioned block member and configured to be melted by heat.

12. A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A vehicle characterized by including a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

14. A case body equipped to accommodate multiple battery cells; and A top plate provided to be joined to the case body to form an upper surface; At least a portion of the top plate is penetrated to form a venting hole, and a catch is provided on the inner surface of the venting hole. A battery module case characterized in that it includes a block member that at least partially covers the venting hole and is configured such that at least a portion of the block member is inserted into the venting hole and is prevented from being separated into the inside of the case body by the catch.

15. In paragraph 14, A battery module case characterized in that the block member is configured to be inserted into the venting hole and seated in the hanging portion.

16. In paragraph 14, A battery module case characterized in that the above-mentioned catch is configured to be at least partially inclined toward the inside of the venting hole.

17. In paragraph 14, A battery module case further comprising an end plate provided on at least one surface of the case body so as to face the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells.

18. A battery module comprising a battery module case according to any one of claims 14 to 16.

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