Battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module comprising: a cell stack including a plurality of battery cells; a module case for accommodating the cell stack; and a protective layer, which is provided on the outer surface of the module case so as to prevent heat conduction and heat radiation to the outside of the module case.

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. 10-2023-0091921, filed on July 14, 2023, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] 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.

[0004] 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.

[0005] Meanwhile, since battery cells undergo chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance can deteriorate if used in environments above optimal temperatures. Furthermore, if thermal control fails to maintain optimal temperatures, there's a constant risk of unexpected fire or explosion. Furthermore, battery modules are structured to house these cells tightly within the module case. Therefore, if a thermal event occurs in a single battery cell, the resulting high-temperature gases and flames can spread to adjacent cells, potentially triggering a chain reaction of battery cell explosions, posing a significant risk.

[0006] In addition, since the module case is made of a metal material with relatively high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell, there is a high possibility that heat will be conducted to the outside or inside of the battery module, causing thermal runaway.

[0007] Therefore, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, there is a need to develop a structure that can suppress and delay heat propagation within the battery module by preventing heat accumulation within the battery module due to high-temperature gas or flame generated within the battery module.

[0008] In addition, in a battery pack in which battery modules are integrated, there is a need to develop a structure that can suppress and delay heat propagation between battery modules by minimizing heat conduction and heat radiation to adjacent battery modules even if a thermal event occurs within some battery modules.

[0009] Accordingly, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module that can effectively prevent or delay the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery module by preventing heat accumulation inside the battery module due to gas or flame generated inside the battery module when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module.

[0010] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module that can effectively prevent or delay the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules by minimizing heat conduction and heat radiation to adjacent battery modules when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module.

[0011] Accordingly, another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module with improved safety and reliability.

[0012] In addition, another problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to provide a battery pack and a vehicle including such a battery module.

[0013] However, the 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.

[0014] To solve the above problem, the present invention provides a battery module characterized by including: a cell stack including a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the cell stack; and a protective layer provided on an outer surface of the module case to prevent heat conduction and heat radiation to the outside of the module case.

[0015] At least one venting hole is formed on the upper surface of the module case through which venting gas discharged from the battery cell is discharged, and the protective layer may be provided on the upper surface of the module case and the inner circumferential surface of the venting hole.

[0016] The above venting holes are provided in multiple numbers, and the protective layer can be individually provided for each of the multiple venting holes.

[0017] The above protective layer can be provided on all surfaces including the upper surface of the module case.

[0018] The protective layer may be composed of a material comprising at least one of polyurethane and silicone.

[0019] The above protective layer may be provided as a coating layer having a UL 94 V-0 rating or higher.

[0020] The above protective layer may be a foam coating layer conformally coated along the outer surface of the module case.

[0021] The thickness of the above protective layer may be set to be 5% or more and 50% or less of the thickness of the module case.

[0022] It may further include a top cover configured to be attached to the upper surface of the above module case by an adhesive member.

[0023] The top cover may be configured to be attached to the protective layer by the adhesive member.

[0024] It may further include a primer layer provided between the protective layer and the adhesive member to improve the bonding strength between the module case and the top cover.

[0025] The above module case may include a U-frame configured to accommodate the cell stack by having an upper surface and front and rear surfaces open, and a top plate covering the open upper surface of the U-frame.

[0026] Alternatively, the module case may comprise a monoframe configured to accommodate the cell stack with open front and back surfaces.

[0027] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0028] The battery pack further includes a pack case that accommodates the battery module and has a cooling member provided on the bottom surface; and the protective layer can be formed on both sides and the upper surface of the module case.

[0029] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0030] According to one aspect of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, heat accumulation within the battery module due to gas or flame generated within the battery module can be prevented, thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery module. This ensures the safety and reliability of the battery module.

[0031] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, thermal conduction and thermal radiation to adjacent battery modules can be minimized, thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules.

[0032] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, when attaching the top cover to the outside of the battery module, the adhesive strength between the top cover and the adhesive member for attaching the battery module can be improved.

[0033] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, an event due to thermal runaway phenomenon, such as a fire or explosion, of a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules or a device equipped with the same can be prevented or delayed.

[0034] 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.

[0035] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred 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.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 3.

[0040] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part B of Figure 6.

[0043] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Hereinafter, preferred 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.

[0049] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] FIG. 1 is a full 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. In addition, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of portion A of FIG. 3.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cell stack (100), a module case (200), and a protective layer (300).

[0055] The above cell stack (100) may include a battery cell (110). The battery cell (110) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0056] The plurality of battery cells (110) may be, for example, pouch-type secondary batteries. The plurality of battery cells (110) may each be provided with an electrode lead (112). Specifically, the plurality of battery cells (110) may include an electrode assembly, a cell case (111) that accommodates the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead (112) that is connected to the electrode assembly and extends outward from the cell case (111) to function as an electrode terminal. The cell case (111) may accommodate the electrode assembly in a receiving portion, and a border around the receiving portion may be heat-sealed to form a sealing portion.

[0057] The electrode leads (112) may be provided as a pair, and the pair of electrode leads (112) may be extended from both ends of the battery cell (110), i.e., in the longitudinal direction (±Y direction). At this time, the pair of electrode leads (112) may be a positive lead and a negative lead. If necessary, the battery cell (110) may have a form in which the two electrode leads (112) are positioned only at one end in the Y-axis direction, for example, only at the end in the +Y-axis direction.

[0058] As illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (110) can 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 (110) can have its sealing portion facing the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the up-down direction (Z-axis direction), and its storage portion facing the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0059] The present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the battery cell (110), and various battery cells (110) known at the time of filing of the present invention may be employed to construct the cell stack (100) of the present invention. In this embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery having a high energy density and easy stacking is targeted as shown in the drawing, but it goes without saying that a cylindrical or square secondary battery may be applied as the battery cell (110).

[0060] The above cell stack (100) may further include a blocking member (120). The blocking member (120) may be provided between the battery cells (110). In particular, a plurality of blocking members (120) may be included in one cell stack (100). The blocking member (120) may be provided in a form in which it is arranged for at least one battery cell (110). In the present embodiment, the blocking member (120) may be arranged for every two battery cells (110). According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, the battery cells (110) are partitioned or separated by the blocking member (120), thereby preventing gas or flames from being transferred to another blocking member (120) adjacent to the blocking member (120).

[0061] This blocking member (120) may be made of a material having excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance, for example, a material such as silicone or aerogel. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the blocking member (120) may contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cells (110) by compressing the battery cells (110) when the battery cells (110) are swollen.

[0062] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the battery module (10) of the present invention may further include a busbar frame assembly (700). The busbar frame assembly (700) may be provided inside the module case (200) and configured to cover at least one side of the cell stack (100). In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the busbar frame assembly (700) may be coupled to the front and rear of the cell stack (100).

[0063] The above busbar frame assembly (700) may include a busbar frame (710) and a plurality of busbars (720). The busbar frame (710) may be arranged to be connected to approximately the front and rear of the cell stack (100). The busbar frame (710) may have slits through which the electrode leads (112) of the battery cells (110) can be drawn out in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction. In addition, the busbar frame (710) may be formed of a material having electrical insulation, such as a plastic material, and may be configured to allow a busbar (720) to be attached to the outer surface.

[0064] Additionally, the busbar frame (710) can be force-fitted and joined to the front or rear of the cell stack (100).

[0065] Meanwhile, the plurality of bus bars (720) may be formed of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc., as a means for connecting the battery cells (110) in series and / or in parallel, and may be provided in a rod shape. The electrode leads (112) of the battery cells (110) pass through the slits of the bus bar frame (710) and are drawn outward from the bus bar frame (710), and the portions drawn out in this manner may be attached to the surface of the bus bar (720) by welding or the like. By welding the electrode leads (112) of the battery cells (110) and the bus bars (720) in a predetermined pattern at the front and rear of the cell stack (100), the battery cells (110) may be connected in series and / or in parallel.

[0066] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a module case (200). The module case (200) may be configured to accommodate a cell stack (100). Specifically, an internal space may be formed in the module case (200), and the internal space may be configured to accommodate a cell stack (100) and a busbar frame assembly (700).

[0067] Meanwhile, the module case (200) may include a case body (210a or 210b). For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the case body (210a or 210b) may be provided as a U-frame (210a). The U-frame (210a) may be provided to cover both sides and the lower surface of the cell stack (100). The U-frame (210a) may include a left plate and a right plate covering both sides of the cell stack (100), and a lower plate covering the lower surface of the cell stack (100). In addition, the left plate, the right plate, and the lower plate may be configured in an integrated form. At this time, the upper surface and the front and rear surfaces of the U-frame (210a) may be open. The U-frame (210a) may be configured of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance in order to physically or chemically protect the accommodated battery cells (110).

[0068] When the case body (210a or 210b) is provided as a U-frame (210a), the module case (200) may further include a top plate (220). The top plate (220) may be provided to form an upper surface of the U-frame (210a). The top plate (220) may be coupled to the open upper surface of the U-frame (210a). The top plate (220) may be coupled to the U-frame (210a) by welding. At this time, the shape in which the top plate (220) and the U-frame (210a) are coupled may be a square tubular shape with open front and back surfaces.

[0069] In addition, the case body (210a or 210b) may be provided so that battery cells (110) can be inserted inside along one direction. For example, the battery cells (110) can be inserted inside along the front-back direction (Y-axis direction). When the case body (210a or 210b) is provided as a U-frame (210a), the U-frame (210a) may be configured so that battery cells (110) can be inserted inside in a sliding manner.

[0070] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of part B of FIG. 6.

[0071] Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, the case body (210a or 210b) may be provided as a monoframe (210b). The monoframe (210b) may be configured in a square tube shape with an upper surface, a lower surface, a left surface, and a right surface, and the front and back surfaces are open. In addition, the upper surface, the lower surface, the left surface, and the right surface may be configured in an integrated form. This monoframe (210b) may be configured with a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance in order to physically or chemically protect the battery cell (110) contained therein.

[0072] When the case body (210a or 210b) is provided with a mono frame (210b), the cell stack (100) can be assembled with the busbar frame assembly (700) and inserted into the interior of the mono frame (210b) in a force-fit manner. At this time, for the force-fit connection, there can be almost no gap between the upper and lower surfaces of the mono frame (210b) and the battery cells (110), and there can also be almost no gap between both sides of the mono frame (210b) and both side portions of the battery cells (110).

[0073] 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. In this case, the lower case may be provided in a form in which the left and right plates covering both sides of the cell stack (100) and the front and rear plates covering the front and rear of the cell stack (100) are all integrated.

[0074] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 2 and 5, the module case (200) may include an end plate (230) provided on the open front and rear surfaces of the case body (210a or 210b). The end plate (230) may be welded and joined to the case body (210a or 210b). Meanwhile, although not shown for convenience, the end plate (230) may, for example, have an inner surface made of an insulating material and an outer surface made of a metal material. In addition, the end plate (230) may partially have holes or slits for exposing 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.

[0075] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 7, a venting hole (H1) may be formed in the module case (200). The venting hole (H1) may be configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell (110) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (200). The venting hole (H1) may be formed on one side of the module case (200), and directional venting in one direction may be possible. For example, the venting hole (H1) may be formed on the upper surface of the module case (200).

[0076] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, when the case body (210) is provided with a U-frame (210a), a venting hole (H1) is formed in the top plate (220), and directional venting of the battery module (10) toward the top may be possible through the venting hole (H1). The venting holes (H1) may be provided in multiple numbers, and may be provided at regular intervals in the horizontal direction (X-axis, Y-axis direction).

[0077] In this way, the venting hole (H1) provided on the upper surface of the module case (200) can be provided so that, when thermal runaway of the battery module (10) occurs, gas or flame generated inside the battery module (10) can be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10). The remaining portion of the module case (200) excluding the venting hole (H1) is sealed, and the gas or flame can be discharged in a straight line toward the venting hole (H1).

[0078] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs at any location of the battery cell (110), the gas or flame generated in the battery cell (110) is discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through specific venting holes (H1) provided at the upper portion of the battery cell (110), thereby facilitating venting.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, the battery module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a protective layer (300). The protective layer (300) may be provided on the outer surface of the module case (200).

[0080] The module case (200) can cover both sides, the upper side, and the lower side of the cell stack (100) through the U-frame (210a) and the top plate (220), or can cover both sides, the upper side, and the lower side of the cell stack (100) through the mono frame (210b). In addition, the front and the rear side of the cell stack (100) can be covered through the end plate (230). In this way, the module case (200) can cover a total of six sides of the cell stack (100), including both sides, the upper side, the lower side, the front side, and the rear side. The protective layer (300) can be provided on at least one of the six sides of the module case (200). The protective layer (300) can be provided on the outer surface of the module case (200).

[0081] The above protective layer (300) may be configured to prevent heat conduction and heat radiation to the outside of the module case (200). To this end, the protective layer (300) may be formed of a material having lower thermal conductivity than the module case (200). For example, the protective layer (300) may be formed of a material including at least one of polyurethane and silicone. In addition, the protective layer (300) may be provided with a coating layer having a UL 94 V-0 rating or higher and may have flame retardancy. The protective layer (300) may have fire resistance performance.

[0082] The module case (200) may be made of a metal material such as aluminum with high thermal conductivity. Since the metal material has thermal conductivity, heat caused by high-temperature gas or flames may be transferred to adjacent battery modules. However, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the protective layer (300) is provided on the outer surface of the module case (200), thereby preventing heat conduction and heat radiation to the outside of the module case (200). Accordingly, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules can be effectively prevented or delayed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery module.

[0083] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, heat accumulation inside the battery module due to gas or flame generated inside the battery module is prevented, so that the propagation of thermal runaway inside the battery module can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0084] Specifically, referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 6, and 7, the protective layer (300) may be provided on the upper surface of the module case (200) and the inner circumferential surface of the venting hole (H1). For example, the protective layer (300) may be provided on the upper surface of the top plate (220) or the mono frame (210b). In addition, the protective layer (300) may be individually provided for each of the plurality of venting holes (H1).

[0085] There is a high possibility that heat will accumulate on the upper surface of the module case (200) where the venting hole (H1) is formed due to the discharge of high-temperature gas or flame through the venting hole (H1) or that the heat will be conducted to the outside. However, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, a fire-resistant protective layer (300) is provided not only on the surface of the upper surface of the module case (200) where the venting hole (H1) is provided, but also on the inner surface of the venting hole (H1), thereby preventing even a portion of the metal material of the module case (200) from being exposed to the outside and causing heat to be conducted. Thus, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to prevent heat from being conducted to an adjacent battery cell (110) or the venting hole (H1) due to high-temperature gas or flame discharged through the venting hole (H1).

[0086] In addition, referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 6, and 7, the protective layer (300) may be provided on all surfaces including the upper surface of the module case (200). For example, the protective layer (300) may also be provided on the bottom surface of the module case (200). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, in a battery pack including battery modules (10), heat transmission between battery modules (10) can be prevented regardless of the arrangement structure or position of the battery modules (10), so that the heat transmission performance per battery pack can be improved.

[0087] Meanwhile, the protective layer (300) may be a coating layer formed by foaming directly on the outer surface of the module case (200). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, compared to attaching a sheet-shaped refractory member separately provided on the module case (200), the inner surface of the venting hole (H1) etc. can be easily covered. In addition, since the process of separately manufacturing the refractory member according to the size of the outer surface of the module case (200) is omitted, the cost and time can be reduced when manufacturing a battery module.

[0088] The protective layer (300) may be a conformal coating layer formed along the outer surface of the module case (200). In particular, the protective layer (300) may be a conformal coating foam coating layer. Here, conformal coating refers to applying a coating agent thinly for the purpose of corrosion prevention, etc. As the conformal coating material, polyurethane or silicone, etc., may be used as described above. Such materials can be easily formed as a coating layer on the outer surface of the module case (200) of the assembled battery module (10) by the foam coating method.

[0089] In addition, by using the conformal coating method, the protective layer (300) can be coated with a uniform thickness along the curvature of the outer surface of the module case (200). For example, the thickness of the protective layer (300) on the upper surface of the module case (200) and the thickness of the protective layer (300) on the inner surface of the venting hole (H1) can be uniform.

[0090] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the drying time can be shortened, thereby reducing the manufacturing time, and since it is easy to inspect whether or not the coating has been applied, productivity can be improved. In addition, since the coating can be applied along the curves of the outer surface of the module case (200) with a uniform thickness, the metal material of the module case (200) can be prevented from being directly exposed to the outside in any part, and the thermal conductivity and heat radiation prevention effects can be maintained for the entire area of ​​the module case (200).

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 7, the thickness (t) of the protective layer (300) may be 5% or more and 50% or less of the thickness (T) of the module case (200). For example, when the thickness (T) of the wall of the top plate (220) and the case body (210) is 2 mm, the thickness (t) of the protective layer (300) may be 0.1 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if the protective layer (300) is foamed on the outer surface of the module case (200), the height of the battery module (10) is not greatly increased, and thus the volume of the battery module (10) is not increased, so that the energy density is not greatly affected.

[0092] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the battery module (10) according to the embodiment of the present invention may further include a top cover (400).

[0094] The above top cover (400) may be made of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance, such as mica or a pad combining a Fire Resistant Barrier (FRB) and silicone. The FRB may include an inorganic material that is easy to convert, and may be composed of a material with excellent flame retardancy and ignition resistance.

[0095] Accordingly, even if high-temperature heat is generated, shrinkage does not occur and morphological stability can be maintained, so that high-temperature gases or flames generated from the battery cell (110) can be stably blocked. In addition, by providing the top cover (400), even if a thermal event occurs inside the battery module (10), heat such as high-temperature gases or flames can be prevented from being conducted to the outside.

[0096] The top cover (400) may be coupled to one side of the module case (200). The top cover (400) may be configured to cover the upper surface of the module case (200). Specifically, the top cover (400) may be coupled to the upper surface of the top plate (220) or the mono frame (210b).

[0097] A cover hole (H2) may be formed in the top cover (400). A plurality of cover holes (H2) may be provided, and may be provided to correspond to the venting hole (H1). That is, the cover hole (H2) may be provided at a position where the venting hole (H1) is formed and has the same shape and size as the venting hole (H1). The cover hole (H2) may be configured to be detachable from the module case (200) by the pressure of the venting gas discharged from the battery cell (110). Specifically, when gas is discharged from the venting hole (H1) corresponding to the cover hole (H2), only the cover hole (H2) provided on the upper portion of the vented battery cell (110) may be provided so that it is broken from the top cover (400). To this end, a cut groove may be formed along the shape of the cover hole (H2).

[0098] In other words, in a normal state, the top cover (400) can protect the cell stack (100) inside the module case (200) by shielding all the venting holes (H1) provided on the upper surface of the module case (200). However, in a thermal event in which venting gas or flames are generated in some battery cells (110), at least one of the cover holes (H2) of the top cover (400) is separated from the module case (200), so that the venting gas or flames discharged in a straight line through the venting hole (H1) can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) without obstructing the path thereof. In addition, the cover hole (H2) that remains without being 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 (110).

[0099] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since at least a part of the cover hole (H2) can be completely separated from the module case (200), the venting hole (H1) is exposed to the outside of the battery module (10), and as a result of not shielding the venting hole (H1), gas or flames can be completely discharged to the outside of the battery module (10).

[0100] The above module case (200) is made of a metal material including aluminum, and thus may be difficult to combine with a top cover (400) made of a material such as mica. Accordingly, the battery module (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include an adhesive member (500). The top cover (400) may be attached to the upper surface of the module case (200) by the adhesive member (500). The adhesive member (500) may include an adhesive, an adhesive tape, or the like. The top cover (400) may be attached to the upper surface of the module case (200) by the adhesive member (500) in all parts except for the cover hole (H2).

[0101] Specifically, referring to FIG. 9, since a protective layer (300) is provided on the upper surface of the module case (200), the top cover (400) can be attached to the protective layer (300). That is, the top cover (400) can be configured to be attached to the protective layer (300) by an adhesive member (500). Accordingly, the module case (200) / protective layer (300) / adhesive member (500) / top cover (400) can be provided in this order from the bottom. Compared to the case where the adhesive member (500) is formed directly on the module case (200) made of a metal material, when the adhesive member (500) is formed on the protective layer (300), the matching performance between the protective layer (300) and the adhesive member (500) can be further improved.

[0102] When 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 (110) and / or the high heat of dust or flame, etc., thereby reducing the adhesive strength between the module case (200) and the top cover (400). As a result, the exhaust pressure of the venting gas acts between the module case (200) and the top cover (400) with the weakened adhesive strength, so that the top cover (400) may be pushed in the direction of the venting gas discharge and separated from the module case (200). At this time, if the top cover (400) remains without being separated from the module case (200) with the adhesive strength of the adhesive member weakened, not only will the exhaust of the venting gas or flame be hindered, but there is also a risk that the venting gas or flame may flow back into the battery module (10) through the raised interface between the top cover (400) and the module case (200).

[0103] In contrast, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the protective layer (300) is provided when the top cover (400) is adhered to the module case (200), the adhesive strength between the protective layer (300) and the adhesive member (500) is improved, thereby preventing the top cover (400) from being lifted off from the module case (200) by high-temperature gas or flame when a thermal event occurs. As a result, gas or flame discharged to the outside can be blocked from flowing back into the battery module (10). Accordingly, the safety and reliability of the battery module (10) can be guaranteed.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 10, a battery module (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include a primer layer (600). The primer layer (600) may be made of a specially treated material capable of functioning as a primer. The primer layer (600) may be applied to the protective layer (300) to improve the adhesive strength of the adhesive member (500). That is, the primer layer (600) may be provided between the protective layer (300) and the adhesive member (500), and may be provided in the following order from the bottom: module case (200) / protective layer (300) / primer layer (600) / adhesive member (500) / top cover (400).

[0105] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the protective layer (300) functions as a base layer for forming the primer layer (600), thereby facilitating the formation of the primer layer (600). In addition, the excellent matching performance with the primer layer (600) can help prevent and maintain the detachment of the primer layer (600). Accordingly, by applying a special treatment to the protective layer (300), the bonding strength between the module case (200) and the top cover (400) can be further enhanced.

[0106] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 11, a battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules (10) according to an 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 the above-described components, such as a BMS (Battery Management System), a current sensor, a fuse, etc. for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules (10). A cooling member for cooling the battery module (10) may be provided on the bottom surface of the pack case (2). In this case, the protective layer (300) may be formed on both sides and the top surface of the module case (200) excluding the bottom surface of the module case (200). Accordingly, the bottom surface on which the protective layer (300) is not formed can directly and quickly cool the battery modules (10) through thermal contact between the cooling member and the battery modules (10), and heat conduction and heat radiation can be prevented through the protective layer (300) formed on the remaining surface of the module case (200).

[0108] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 12, 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) operates by receiving power from the battery packs (1) and / or battery modules (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] 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 can be made 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 skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. A cell stack comprising a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the above cell stack; and A battery module characterized by including a protective layer provided on the outer surface of the module case to prevent heat conduction and heat radiation to the outside of the module case.

2. In paragraph 1, At least one venting hole is formed on the upper surface of the module case through which venting gas discharged from the battery cell is discharged, A battery module characterized in that the protective layer is provided on the upper surface of the module case and the inner surface of the venting hole.

3. In paragraph 2, The above venting holes are provided in multiple numbers, A battery module characterized in that the protective layer is individually provided for each of the plurality of venting holes.

4. In paragraph 2, A battery module characterized in that the protective layer is provided on all surfaces including the upper surface of the module case.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the protective layer is composed of a material including at least one of polyurethane and silicone.

6. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the above protective layer is provided with a coating layer having a UL 94 V-0 rating or higher.

7. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the protective layer is a foam coating layer conformally coated along the outer surface of the module case.

8. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the thickness of the protective layer is 5% or more and 50% or less of the thickness of the module case.

9. In paragraph 1, A battery module further comprising a top cover configured to be attached to the upper surface of the module case by an adhesive member.

10. In paragraph 9, A battery module characterized in that the top cover is configured to be attached to the protective layer by the adhesive member.

11. In paragraph 10, A battery module further comprising a primer layer provided between the protective layer and the adhesive member to improve the bonding strength between the module case and the top cover.

12. In paragraph 1, The above module case A U-frame configured to accommodate the cell stack by having an open upper surface and front and rear surfaces, A battery module characterized by including a top plate covering the open upper surface of the U-frame.

13. In paragraph 1, The above module case A battery module characterized by comprising a monoframe having open front and rear surfaces configured to accommodate the cell stack.

14. A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. In paragraph 14, Further comprising a pack case that accommodates the above battery module and has a cooling member provided on the bottom surface; A battery pack characterized in that the protective layer is formed on both sides and the upper surface of the module case.

16. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to Article 14.

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