Battery assembly, battery pack, and vehicle comprising same

Abstract

A battery assembly of the present invention comprises: a plurality of battery cells: a cell frame in which the plurality of battery cells are accommodated; and a filling member which seals the top portion of the cell frame, wherein the battery assembly is provided with isolation parts which define cooling flow path spaces between the plurality of battery cells, the cooling flow path spaces being filled with a cooling medium, and isolate the cooling flow path spaces from the filling member.

Description

Battery assembly, battery pack and vehicle including same

[0001] Cross-citation with related application(s)

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0106480, filed August 14, 2023, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0107034, filed August 9, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The present invention relates to a battery assembly, a battery pack, and a vehicle including the same, and more particularly, to a battery assembly having a direct cooling structure, a battery pack, and a vehicle including the same.

[0004] Secondary batteries, which offer high applicability across a wide range of product categories and possess electrical properties such as high energy density, 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 widely used as an 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] Types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of a single secondary battery cell, or a single battery cell, is approximately 2.5 V to 4.5 V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, a battery pack may be configured by connecting multiple battery cells in series. Furthermore, depending on the required charge / discharge capacity of the battery pack, a battery pack may be configured by connecting multiple battery cells in parallel. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack may vary depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] When configuring a battery pack by connecting battery cells in series / parallel like this, it is common to first configure a battery module by creating a battery cell assembly containing multiple battery cells and storing them in a module case, and then configuring a battery pack by assembling one or more of these battery modules and adding other components to them. In battery modules, as the required battery capacity increases, the importance of technology that can efficiently cool the heat generated from the battery cells is gradually increasing, and bottom cooling or side cooling methods that cool the battery module by mounting a heat sink on the module case have been used.

[0007] However, in the case of battery modules with this type of cooling method, the heat generated from the battery cells is transferred to the heat sink on one side of the module case for cooling, making it difficult to easily establish a heat transfer path to the other side of the module case. As a result, the temperature difference between one end of the battery cell assembly and the other end is severe, and the overall cooling efficiency is limited. If the temperature difference is not resolved, it causes safety and durability issues of the battery module. If the cooling efficiency is poor, it can accelerate the deterioration of the battery cells, or if a thermal runaway occurs in some battery cells, it can not be quickly responded to, which can lead to the propagation of the thermal runaway and, in severe cases, fire or explosion of the battery module or the battery pack containing it, which can cause disasters not only property damage but also safety issues.

[0008] To address these issues, some have proposed methods that directly cool battery cells by filling the battery module with coolant or insulating oil, rather than relying on bottom or side cooling. However, existing direct-cooling battery modules utilize a variety of components, such as a silicone rubber double-injection assembly structure and a waterproof foam tape overlapping structure, to achieve a waterproof structure. These waterproof structures utilize separate components placed between sealing components and applied pressure by separate fixing members to achieve waterproof performance. Consequently, the battery module requires a variety of components, including silicone rubber components such as waterproof foam tape, sealant, O-rings, and bolting structures. The battery pack requires double or triple sealing components and thermal grease. This increased use of diverse components increases the number of components, complicating the assembly and manufacturing processes. The need for separate fixing structures also increases costs. Furthermore, the assembly and manufacturing processes are susceptible to foreign matter, making them prone to defects.

[0009] Therefore, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a direct cooling type battery assembly with a simplified assembly and manufacturing process.

[0010] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a direct cooling type battery pack with a simplified assembly and manufacturing process.

[0011] Another problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to provide a vehicle including such a battery pack.

[0012] To solve the above problem, the battery assembly of the present invention includes: a plurality of battery cells; a cell frame accommodating the plurality of battery cells; and a filling member sealing the upper portion of the cell frame; and defines a cooling passage space to be filled with a cooling medium between the plurality of battery cells, and is provided with an isolation part that isolates the cooling passage space from the filling member.

[0013] The battery assembly of the present invention may further include a porous member having a plurality of holes, positioned between the isolation part and the filling member or inside the filling member.

[0014] The above filling member may extend through the hole of the porous member to the top of the battery cell.

[0015] The above porous member may have more than one layer.

[0016] Preferably, the porous member may be a non-metallic mesh.

[0017] The above mesh may be 5 to 50 mesh.

[0018] The thickness of the above mesh may be 30 ㎛ to 500 ㎛.

[0019] The material of the above mesh can be nylon, PP or PE.

[0020] In one embodiment, the cell frame includes a bottom part including a cell receiving portion that receives the plurality of battery cells, and a frame wall that stands upright upward from the bottom part, and the frame wall has a step on the inside of the cell frame, so that the isolation part can be placed on the step.

[0021] The cell frame may include a bottom part including a cell receiving portion that accommodates the plurality of battery cells. The cell receiving portion may be provided with a cell receiving groove that accommodates each of the plurality of battery cells, and the depth of the cell receiving groove may be a depth into which a portion of the height of the battery cell is inserted, and an adhesive may be provided between the cell receiving groove and the battery cell.

[0022] The above isolation part may have holes formed therein to penetrate each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0023] The above battery assembly may further include a bus bar that provides electrical connection between the battery cells at the top of the battery cells.

[0024] The upper end of the above isolation part may be lower than the above bus bar.

[0025] The above filling material may be provided with potting resin.

[0026] The above cooling medium may be water or insulating oil.

[0027] In order to solve the above-described other problems, a battery pack according to one configuration of the present invention includes a battery assembly according to the present invention.

[0028] A battery pack according to another configuration of the present invention comprises: a battery assembly; and a pack case accommodating the battery assembly. The battery assembly comprises: a plurality of battery cells; a cell frame accommodating the plurality of battery cells; a filling member sealing an upper portion of the cell frame; and an isolation member defining a cooling passage space for filling a cooling medium between the plurality of battery cells and isolating the cooling passage space from the filling member. The cell frame forms a venting passage for gases or flames generated in the battery assembly between the cell frame and the pack case.

[0029] Preferably, the cell frame includes a protrusion protruding downward on the lower surface, and the protrusion makes surface contact with the pack case to define the venting path.

[0030] The cell frame includes a bottom part including a cell receiving portion that receives the plurality of battery cells, and a frame wall that stands upright upward from the bottom part, and the frame wall has a step on the inside of the cell frame, so that the isolation part can be placed on the step.

[0031] The cell frame may include a bottom part including a cell receiving portion that accommodates the plurality of battery cells. The cell receiving portion may be provided with a cell receiving groove that accommodates each of the plurality of battery cells, and the depth of the cell receiving groove may be a depth into which a portion of the height of the battery cell is inserted, and an adhesive may be provided between the cell receiving groove and the battery cell.

[0032] The battery pack may further include a bus bar that electrically connects the battery cells at the top of the battery cells. The isolation part may have a hole formed therein that penetrates each of the plurality of battery cells, the top of the isolation part may be positioned below the bus bar, and the filling material may be formed of a potting resin.

[0033] The above battery cell may include a vent provided at the bottom of the battery cell to discharge gas inside the battery cell.

[0034] In order to solve the above-described further problem, the present invention also provides a vehicle including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0035] According to the present invention, a battery assembly utilizing direct immersion cooling and having excellent cooling performance and a battery pack including the same are provided. The battery assembly and battery pack according to the present invention have excellent cooling performance, thereby addressing heat generation issues, and in particular, addressing heat generation issues associated with rapid charging requirements.

[0036] According to the present invention, a waterproof structure for a large-area battery assembly can be realized by applying a potting resin. Specifically, the present invention achieves a simple waterproof seal through the use of a top potting method. Therefore, the structure of the battery assembly and battery pack can be simplified, resulting in a direct-cooling battery assembly and battery pack with simplified assembly and manufacturing processes.

[0037] According to the present invention, by implementing a waterproof structure using potting resin, conventional silicone rubber double-injection structures or waterproof foam tapes are no longer required, reducing the number of components and simplifying the assembly process. This enables cost savings.

[0038] Furthermore, according to the present invention, sealing reliability is secured by applying a porous member, such as a non-metallic mesh, thereby improving waterproofing reliability. According to the present invention, the potting resin can penetrate the pores of the porous member, thereby increasing the bonding strength of the potting resin. This eliminates the risk of cracks occurring at the potting resin interface or within the potting resin layer during the manufacturing process or under vibration / shock, thereby further enhancing waterproofing reliability.

[0039] According to the present invention, both general vehicle coolant and insulating oil can be used through the cooling path space implemented inside the battery assembly.

[0040] The battery pack according to the present invention has a venting path formed between the cell frame of the battery assembly and the pack case, so that high-temperature gas and flames that may be generated in an abnormal situation of the battery cell can be efficiently discharged, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0041] Additionally, if a thermal event occurs in a battery cell and high-temperature gases or flames are generated, the high-temperature gases and flames can be directed in a specific direction and quickly discharged to the outside of the pack case.

[0042] In addition, the process of discharging high-temperature gases vented from the battery cells to the outside of the pack case can prevent additional chain reactions by minimizing thermal damage to other battery cells.

[0043] 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.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a combined battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery assembly of Figure 1.

[0046] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' of the battery assembly of Fig. 1.

[0047] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig. 5 is a V-V' cross-sectional view of the battery assembly of Fig. 4.

[0049] Fig. 6 is a modified example of the battery assembly shown in Fig. 5.

[0050] FIG. 7 is another example of a porous member of the battery assembly illustrated in FIG. 5, illustrating a mesh.

[0051] FIG. 8 is a schematic drawing of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 9 is a partially exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a combined battery assembly that may be included in the battery pack of FIG. 9.

[0054] Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of the battery assembly of Figure 10.

[0055] FIG. 12 is a side view showing a protrusion in the battery assembly of FIG. 10.

[0056] Figure 13 is a drawing showing the bottom surface of the battery assembly of Figure 10, showing a protrusion formed on the cell frame.

[0057] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV' of Fig. 10.

[0058] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figures 16 to 18 are cross-sectional views of battery assemblies according to modified embodiments of the present invention.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] In the drawings, the sizes of each component or specific parts of that component are exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated for convenience and clarity of explanation. Therefore, the size of each component does not entirely reflect the actual size. If a detailed description of a related known function or configuration is judged to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, such description will be omitted. Furthermore, since the same reference numerals indicate the same elements, any description that is redundant or repetitive across various embodiments will be omitted.

[0063] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a combined battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery assembly of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' of the battery assembly of FIG. 1.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells (100), a cell frame (200), and a filling member (500). In addition, an isolation part (300) is provided in the battery assembly (10).

[0065] The battery cell (100) may be any type of secondary battery, such as a square, cylindrical, or pouch-shaped battery cell. The battery cells (100) may be arranged in rows and columns within the battery assembly (10). The battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0066] The cell frame (200) accommodates the battery cell (100). For example, the cell frame (200) may have an upper opening (210). For example, the cell frame (200) may be provided in a box shape with an open upper surface and composed of four walls. Some of the walls extend along the X-axis direction of the drawing, and other parts of the walls extend along the Y-axis direction. The battery cell (100) may be accommodated in the cell frame (200) while standing upright in the Z-axis direction.

[0067] A battery cell (100) can be mounted on a cell frame (200). The cell frame (200) is provided at the bottom of the battery cell (100) so that the battery cell (100) can be mounted and fixed therein. A structure into which the bottom of the battery cell (100) is inserted may be formed in the cell frame (200).

[0068] In a preferred example, the cell frame (200) may include a bottom part (220) on which the battery cell (100) is mounted, and a frame wall (230) that extends upward from the bottom part (220). The bottom part (220) forms the lower surface of the cell frame (200) and may have an approximately rectangular shape. The frame wall (230) extends upward from each corner of the bottom part (220) to form a side surface surrounding the battery cell (100). The frame wall (230) and the bottom part (220) may be integral. However, this is merely an example, and in another embodiment of the present invention, the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230) may be separate components that are distinct from each other, and the cell frame (200) may be formed when the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230) are assembled. This will be described later.

[0069] The bottom part (220) may include a cell receiving portion that receives the battery cell (100). The lower portion of each battery cell (100) may be mounted on the cell frame (200) and may be inserted into or supported by the cell receiving portion. There is no limitation on the shape of the cell receiving portion. The height (H) of the frame wall (230) is greater than the length (L) of the battery cell (100), so that the battery cell (100) may be completely received within the cell frame (200). The frame wall (230) may have a step (240) on the inside of the cell frame (200), so that the isolation part (300) may be mounted on the step (240).

[0070] However, this is just one example, and in another embodiment of the present invention, the cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) may be integral. This will be described later.

[0071] The cell frame (200) can be coupled to the isolation part (300) at the lower side of the isolation part (300). In addition, the lower side of the battery cell (100) can be secured to the cell frame (200). The isolation part (300) supports a portion of the battery cell (100). The isolation part (300) supports the upper side of the battery cell (100) relative to the position supported by the cell frame (200). Here, the battery cells (100) can be each inserted into and supported by the isolation part (300).

[0072] The cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) can keep the battery cells (100) in a single unit state by gathering them together and can protect the battery cells (100) from external impact. In particular, the cell frame (200) serves as the main rigid body. The cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) can be a metal material such as SUS for mechanical rigidity and Al having thermal conductivity. The cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) can also be a composite material such as FRP that satisfies all of the conditions of electrical insulation, mechanical rigidity, and lightweight. Preferably, the cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) are materials that can be formed by plastic injection.

[0073] The isolation part (300) can maintain a gap (G) between the battery cells (100) at the top of the battery cells (100). The isolation part (300) may have a hole (310) formed therein for each battery cell (100) to pass through. The upper portion of the battery cell (100) may be inserted into the hole (310).

[0074] A cooling passage space (S) is formed between the cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) so that a cooling medium (400) is filled between the battery cells (100). The cooling passage space (S) may be between the bottom part (220) of the cell frame (200), the frame wall (230), and the isolation part (300). The filling member (500) seals the upper part of the cell frame (200). For example, the filling member (500) may seal the upper opening (210) of the cell frame (200). The isolation part (300) isolates the cooling passage space (S) and the filling member (500) before the cooling medium (400) is filled. After the cooling medium (400) is filled in the cooling passage space (S) of the battery assembly (10), the isolation part (300) isolates the cooling medium (400) from the filling member (500). The isolation part (300) prevents the filling member (500) filled above the isolation part (300) from penetrating toward the cooling passage space (S) and the cooling medium (400). The isolation part (300) blocks the filling member (500) in the Z-axis direction. The filling member (500) may be provided on the upper side of the isolation part (300) to prevent leakage of the cooling medium (400). The isolation part (300) and the filling member (500) can prevent the cooling medium (400) in the cooling passage space (S) from leaking to the upper part of the cell frame.

[0075] A cooling passage space (S) may be formed inside the battery assembly (10) so that the side surfaces of the battery cells (100) are exposed, and a cooling medium (400) may be filled in the cooling passage space (S) to flow and circulate or be maintained in a filled state. The cooling medium (400) may fill part or all of the height of the battery cells (100). The cooling medium (400) may use both general vehicle coolant and insulating oil. That is, the cooling medium (400) may be a fluid such as water or insulating oil. The cooling medium (400) may be filled directly between the battery cells (100) in the cooling passage space (S) between the isolation part (300) and the cell frame (200). In this way, the battery cells (100) may be immersed in the cooling medium (400) within the battery assembly (10). This cooling medium (400) can serve to prevent the temperature of the battery cells (100) from increasing by directly cooling the battery cells (100), and has excellent cooling performance. Although not specifically illustrated, the battery assembly may have an inlet through which the cooling medium (400) flows in and an outlet through which the cooling medium (400) flows out. The cooling medium (400) may flow in through the inlet, directly cool the battery cells (100), and then flow out through the outlet.

[0076] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling performance of the battery cell (100) is improved by using a direct cooling method rather than a bottom cooling or side cooling method, the cooling performance of the battery cell (100) can be improved. Furthermore, even if a problematic battery cell (100) ignites and its temperature rises, the cooling medium (400) inside the battery assembly (10) is maintained so that heat is continuously transferred from the ignited battery cell (100) to cool the battery cell (100), thereby protecting the surrounding battery cells (100) from rising in temperature.

[0077] The cooling medium (400) may be a phase change material (PCM). The phase change material can cycle through vaporization and liquefaction, and for more effective circulation, it may be prepared with a fluorine-based material having a low boiling point. For example, the phase change material may be prepared with a material having a boiling point of 35°C to 50°C. In addition, the phase change material may include a material having a fire extinguishing function. Accordingly, even if a fire occurs within the battery assembly (10), the fire can be quickly extinguished using the phase change material.

[0078] When the cooling medium (400) is accommodated in the cooling passage space (S) between the isolation part (300) and the cell frame (200), leakage of the cooling medium (400) may be a problem, so a filling member (500) is provided on the upper side of the isolation part (300) to prevent leakage of the cooling medium (400). The filling member (500) may be provided as a potting resin. Here, potting refers to a method of applying a liquid resin to the upper side of the isolation part (300), curing it, and then packaging it.

[0079] The filling member (500) is a waterproof component that prevents the cooling medium (400), which may be a fluid, from leaking out of the battery assembly (10). Therefore, the potting resin may be a potting resin having waterproof performance. The filling member (500) may be filled into the cell frame (200) over the isolation part (300) to seal the upper part of the cell frame (200). The filling member (500) may be formed by applying a liquid resin through the upper opening (210) of the cell frame (200) after the battery cell (100) is mounted on the cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) is assembled on top of the battery cell (100), and then curing the applied resin.

[0080] In this way, according to the present invention, by implementing a waterproof structure through a filling material (500) such as a potting resin, a silicone rubber double injection structure or waterproof foam tape, as in the past, is not required, thereby reducing the number of parts and simplifying the assembly process. This enables cost savings.

[0081] The waterproof structure using the filling member (500) of the present invention only requires filling the upper opening (210) above the isolation part (300), so waterproof performance is not achieved by inserting a separate member between parts requiring sealing and applying pressure by a separate fixing member. Waterproof foam tape, sealant, silicone rubber material parts such as O-rings, bolting structures, etc. are not required at all. Therefore, the manufacturing process of the battery assembly (10) is greatly simplified and costs are reduced.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is a structural feature in that a step (240) is formed in the cell frame (200) so that the isolation part (300) is accommodated within the cell frame (200). If the step (240) is not formed and the isolation part (300) is simply placed on top of the cell frame (200) and joined, there is a risk that the filling material (500) will leak through the gap. According to an embodiment of the present invention, since the step (240) is provided in the frame wall (230) so that the isolation part (300) is accommodated within the cell frame (200), the upper and lower interfaces between the cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) are not exposed to the outside. Therefore, even if a gap is formed at the portion where the cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) are joined, the risk of the filling material (500) leaking through the gap is prevented. Therefore, there is no need for leak prevention components such as gaskets or glue between the cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300), which does not increase manufacturing costs. In addition, the size of the entire battery assembly (10) is not increased, which is advantageous in terms of energy density.

[0083] Meanwhile, the battery assembly (10) can be sealed by the filling member (500) so that the battery assembly (10) itself can form a closed system. The isolation part (300) maintains the gap between the battery cells (100) at a constant level by serving as a guide that can maintain the gap (G) between the battery cells (100) when assembled with the battery cells (100), thereby forming a uniform cooling passage space (S) and reducing the differential pressure of the cooling medium (400) at the battery assembly (10). In addition, after the filling member (500) is applied and hardened, it is an important component in making the battery assembly (10) a closed system by preventing the filling member (500) from flowing into the cooling passage space (S).

[0084] The filling member (500) is a waterproof component that seals the upper opening (210), and at the same time, it more stably fixes the upper portion of the battery cell (100) protruding upward through the hole (310) of the isolation part (300), and at the same time, it increases the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cell (100), thereby further enhancing the cooling performance of the battery cell (100).

[0085] For example, the filling material (500) may be prepared as a potting resin mixed with beads such as glass bubbles. The potting resin may be formed by injecting a thin liquid resin material into the battery cell (100) and curing it. Here, the injection of the resin material may be performed at a room temperature of approximately 15°C to 25°C to prevent thermal damage to the battery cell (100). Subsequent curing may be performed at a higher temperature.

[0086] In addition, the filling member (500) prevents the infiltration of moisture or foreign substances into the battery cell (100), prevents a chain reaction of fire when a thermal event occurs due to an abnormality in the battery cell (100), and can further increase the structural rigidity of the battery assembly (10).

[0087] Specifically, the filling member (500) may be formed of silicone resin. However, this is not limited thereto, and the filling member (500) may be formed of other resin materials that can improve the fixing and heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cell (100) and implement waterproof performance, in addition to the silicone resin.

[0088] The filling member (500) has a preset viscosity and may include at least two materials. Specifically, the filling member (500) may be prepared by mixing a preset resin and beads at a preset ratio. The filling member (500) reduces the cost of the potting resin by mixing the beads, and the viscosity and other physical properties of the filling member (500) may be adjusted according to the mixing ratio.

[0089] This filling member (500) guides the thermal equilibrium of the battery cell (100), thereby preventing cooling deviation of the battery cell (100) and thus preventing local deterioration of the battery cell (100). In addition, the safety of the battery assembly (10) can also be significantly improved by preventing local deterioration of the battery cell (100).

[0090] In addition, the filling member (500) may also perform an insulating role to prevent current flow to an adjacent battery cell (100) when damage, etc. occurs due to an abnormal situation in at least one specific battery cell (100) among the battery cells (100).

[0091] In addition, the filling member (500) may be made of a material having high specific heat performance or may further include such a material. Accordingly, the filling member (500) increases the thermal mass, thereby delaying the temperature rise of the battery cell (100) even in situations such as rapid charging and discharging of the battery cell (100), thereby preventing a rapid temperature rise of the battery cell (100).

[0092] Additionally, the filling member (500) may be made of a material having high heat resistance or may further include such a material. Accordingly, the filling member (500) can effectively prevent thermal runaway propagation toward other adjacent battery cells (100) when a thermal event such as overheating occurs in a specific battery cell (100).

[0093] Additionally, the filling member (500) may be made of a material with high flame retardancy or may further include such a material. Accordingly, the filling member (500) can minimize the risk of fire in the event of a thermal event, such as overheating, in a specific battery cell (100).

[0094] According to the present invention, by applying a filling material (500) such as a potting resin, a waterproof structure can be easily and simply implemented even if the battery assembly (10) has a large area. In particular, according to the present invention, since a top potting method is applied, a very simple waterproof sealing is implemented without the need for other waterproof components. Therefore, since the structure of the battery assembly (10) and the battery pack including the same can be simplified, a battery assembly (10) and battery pack of a direct cooling method with simplified assembly and manufacturing processes can be obtained. Furthermore, since the number of parts is not large, it is not sensitive to foreign substances, etc. during the assembly and manufacturing processes, the factors causing defects are reduced, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0095] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 5 is a V-V' cross-sectional view of the battery assembly of Fig. 4, and Fig. 6 is a modified example of the battery assembly illustrated in Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is another example of a porous member of the battery assembly illustrated in Fig. 5, illustrating a mesh.

[0096] The battery assembly (12) illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6 further includes a porous member (600) compared to the battery assembly (10) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0097] The porous member (600) may be included between the isolation part (300) and the filling member (500) or inside the filling member (500). The inclusion of the porous member (600) inside the filling member (500) may refer to a form in which the periphery of the porous member (600) is filled with the filling member (500), as if the porous member (600) is contained in the filling member (500).

[0098] The porous member (600) has a plurality of holes (610).

[0099] The filling member (500) can extend to the top of the battery cell (100) by penetrating the hole (610) of the porous member (600). The filling member (500) applied to the top of the porous member (600) can extend to the top of the battery cell (100) by passing through the hole (610) of the porous member (600), and thus the periphery of the porous member (600) can be filled with the filling member (500).

[0100] The porous member (600) can reliably fix the filling member (500) and prevent displacement due to impact, thereby enabling more robust operation of the battery assembly (12). A filling member (500), such as a potting resin, can penetrate between the holes (610) of the porous member (600), thereby increasing the bonding strength of the filling member (500) after curing. This eliminates the risk of cracks occurring at the interface between the filling member (500) and other components or inside the filling member (500) during the manufacturing process or when subjected to vibration / impact, thereby further improving the waterproof reliability. In this way, by further including the porous member (600) in the filling member (500), the reliability of the sealing is secured, thereby also improving the waterproof reliability of the battery assembly (12).

[0101] The porous member (600) may have more than one layer. The battery assembly (12) of FIG. 6 includes two layers of the porous member (600). The porous member (600) may also have three layers, for example.

[0102] The holes (610) of the porous member (600) allow the filling member (500) to pass through during injection. The porous member (600) is preferably made of a material that can withstand temperatures above a certain level. For example, the porous member (600) is preferably made of an insulating material so as not to cause an electrical short circuit. The holes (610) of the porous member (600) are preferably arranged regularly so that the filling member (500) is evenly positioned.

[0103] In the battery assembly (12) of FIGS. 4 to 6, the porous member (600) is formed by punching a number of holes (610) on a plate, such as a film, with a very thin thickness in the Z-axis direction. There is no limitation on the shape of the holes (610), but if they are isotropic, it is preferable that all properties be equal in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0104] FIG. 7 illustrates another example of a porous member of the battery assembly illustrated in FIG. 5, which is a mesh (600'). For example, the porous member (600) in the battery assembly (12) of FIG. 5 may be changed to the mesh (600') of FIG. 7. Preferably, the mesh (600') is non-metallic. That is, the mesh (600') may be a non-metallic mesh. Non-metallicity does not cause electrical short-circuiting and has good material compatibility with the filling member (500), which may be a potting resin.

[0105] The mesh (600') may be formed by weaving together a number of wires, or may be formed by intersecting wires in a cross shape to form a grid. The mesh (600') may have a thickness of 30 μm to 500 μm. The material of the mesh (600') may be nylon, PP, or PE.

[0106] The mesh (600') can be 5 to 50 mesh. The mesh is a method of grading the size of the mesh and is expressed as the number of meshes per inch of length. In other words, the mesh is a unit indicating the size of the holes or particles of the sieve, and can be said to be the number of meshes in a 1-inch square. For example, 200 mesh means that wires of 2 / 1000 inch diameter are spaced 3 / 1000 inch apart, and there are 200 meshes in 1 inch of length. Therefore, N mesh is N / 25.4 mm, and for example, if a mesh of 5 mesh or more is used, the size of one hole (610) is 5.08 x 5.08 mm. 2 The following applies. The mesh size is selected by considering the viscosity of the potting resin, which is the filler (500). If the viscosity of the potting resin is high, a small mesh is better, and if the viscosity of the potting resin is low, a large mesh can be used. If the mesh is large and the gap between the meshes is narrow, it may become clogged with foreign substances such as dust, so it should be selected appropriately.

[0107] Since the mesh (600') is in the form of a thin plate, it can be appropriately placed within the battery assembly (12) and can suppress an increase in the size of the battery assembly (12). In addition, since the mesh (600') has a plurality of holes (610), an increase in weight can also be suppressed. In this way, according to the present invention, by using the mesh (600'), an increase in the size or weight of the battery assembly (12) can be suppressed, while ensuring the reliability of the sealing, thereby improving the waterproof reliability of the battery assembly (12).

[0108] FIG. 8 is a schematic drawing of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 8, a battery pack (20) may be configured to include a battery assembly (10 or 12) and a pack case (700). One or more battery assemblies (10 or 12) may be provided. When a plurality of battery assemblies (10 or 12) are provided, they may be arranged in various ways. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the battery assemblies (10 or 12) may be arranged in a horizontal direction. Alternatively, the battery assemblies (10 or 12) may be arranged in a horizontal direction and a vertical direction, but are not limited thereto.

[0110] The battery pack (20) may include a battery management system (BMS) as a control module for controlling the battery assembly (10 or 12). The control module may manage the battery assembly (10 or 12) through charging / discharging, voltage and temperature sensing, etc. of the battery assembly (10 or 12). In addition, the battery pack may further include various other components, such as components of a battery pack known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a relay, a current sensor, etc.

[0111] According to the present invention, a direct water-cooled battery assembly (10, 12) with excellent cooling performance and a battery pack (20) including the same are provided. The battery assembly (10, 12) and battery pack (20) according to the present invention can solve the problem of heat generation due to their excellent cooling performance, and in particular, can solve the problem of heat generation according to rapid charging requirements.

[0112] Since the battery assembly (10, 12) has a simple waterproof sealing structure using a top-potting method, the structure of the battery pack (20) including it is also simplified. Accordingly, the assembly and manufacturing process of the battery pack (20) is simplified.

[0113] The battery assembly (10, 12) has a reduced number of components and a simplified assembly process. Accordingly, the battery pack (20) including the same can be reduced in cost.

[0114] In addition, the battery assembly (12) has improved waterproof reliability because the reliability of the sealing is secured by applying a porous member (600) such as a non-metallic mesh (600'). Accordingly, the battery pack (20) including the same has further improved waterproof reliability.

[0115] FIG. 9 is a partially exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 9, the battery pack (22) includes a battery assembly (14) and a pack case (700) that accommodates the battery assembly (14). The pack case (700) may be configured to include, for example, a lower case (710), a side case (720), and an upper case (730).

[0117] The lower case (710) is configured to accommodate at least one battery assembly (14). The lower case (710) may be formed in a square plate shape, but is not limited thereto. The lower case (710) forms the bottom of the pack case (700). The side case (720) may be configured to extend upward from an edge of the lower case (710). The side case (720) defines the height of the pack case (700) and forms a preset space between the side case (720) and the lower case (710). At least one battery assembly (14) is accommodated in the space between the side case (720) and the lower case (710). The side case (720) may include a long side frame having a relatively long length and a short side frame having a relatively short length. Alternatively, the side case (720) may include side frames having all the same length. The upper case (730) may be coupled to the side case (720).

[0118] In addition, the pack case (700) may further include a cross beam (740) that accommodates a plurality of battery assemblies (14) and partitions between the plurality of battery assemblies (14). The battery assembly (14) may be provided with a flange portion (250). The flange portion (250) may be provided to bolt and secure the battery assembly (14) to the side case (720) or the cross beam (740).

[0119] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a combined battery assembly that can be included in the battery pack of Fig. 9. Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the battery assembly of Fig. 10. Fig. 12 is a side view showing a protrusion of the battery assembly of Fig. 10. Fig. 13 is a bottom view of the battery assembly of Fig. 10, showing a protrusion formed in the cell frame. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV' of Fig. 10.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 14, the battery assembly (14) is similar to the battery assembly (12), and includes a plurality of battery cells (100), a cell frame (200) that accommodates the battery cells (100), a filling member (500) that seals the upper portion of the cell frame (200), and an isolation part (300) that defines a cooling passage space (S) that allows a cooling medium (400) to be filled between the battery cells (100) and isolates the cooling passage space (S) from the filling member (500). The cell frame (200) forms a venting passage (P) for gases or flames generated in the battery assembly (14) between the cell frame and the pack case (700).

[0121] The enlarged view of part A of Fig. 11 illustrates the bottom surface of the filling member (500). When the filling member (500) is molded to be potted on the upper side of the isolation part (300), the upper case (730) of the pack case (700) can be configured to cover the upper side of the filling member (500).

[0122] In the present embodiment, the battery cell (100) may be a cylindrical battery cell or a square battery cell. The battery cell (100) has an electrode assembly housed inside a battery can (110). The electrode assembly may have a structure in which a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator interposed between the positive and negative electrode plates are wound in one direction and may be formed in a jelly roll type with a center hole formed. The battery can (110) is formed in a cylindrical or square shape, and the electrode assembly is housed inside the battery can (110) and may be electrically connected to the negative electrode plate of the electrode assembly. Accordingly, the battery can (110) may have the same polarity as the negative electrode plate, i.e., a negative pole. A cell terminal (120) is protruded outside the battery can (110) and is electrically connected to the positive electrode plate of the electrode assembly. The cell terminal (120) has a positive polarity.

[0123] The enlarged view of part B of FIG. 11 illustrates the bottom surface of the battery cell (100). The battery cell (100) may include a vent portion (C) at the bottom through which gas inside the battery cell (100) is discharged. The vent portion (C) may include a venting structure such as a vent notch. The vent portion (C) is ruptured when the pressure inside the battery cell (100) abnormally increases, thereby discharging the gas inside to the outside. If the vent portion (C) is included at the bottom of the battery cell (100), particularly at the bottom, it may be helpful in directing the discharge direction of the venting gas toward the bottom of the battery pack (22). The vent portion (C) may be provided near the center of the bottom portion, which is the bottom of the battery cell (100). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the vent portion (C) may be provided at any other location that can discharge gas toward the bottom of the battery cell (100).

[0124] The battery assembly (14) may further include a bus bar (800) that provides electrical connection between the battery cells (100) at the top of the battery cells (100).

[0125] The cell frame (200) may include a protrusion (260) protruding downward on the bottom surface, and the protrusion (260) may be in surface contact with the pack case (700) to define a venting path (P). The protrusion (260) may maintain a Z-axis gap (D) between the bottom of the battery cell (100) inside the battery assembly (14) and the pack case (700). The protrusion (260) may include a first protrusion (260a), a second protrusion (260b), and a third protrusion (260c).

[0126] The lower surface of the protrusion (260) can be supported by being in contact with the upper surface of the pack case (700). Accordingly, the venting path (P) can be formed by being surrounded by the lower surface of the cell frame (200), the protrusion (260), and the upper surface of the pack case (700), and a predetermined space can be provided for gas or flame to flow from the lower side of the battery assembly (14). Since it is a surface contact rather than a point contact or a line contact, a relatively wide contact area is secured, and the surface contacted portion acts as a kind of barrier, thereby preventing gas discharged from the battery cell (100) included in the battery assembly (14) from spreading in all directions. In addition, since the venting gas is guided to move in a predetermined direction, i.e., along the venting path (P), safety can be ensured.

[0127] When the vent part (C) of a specific battery cell (100) is opened abnormally, the lower part of the cell frame (200) (for example, the part where the cell receiving groove (270) of FIG. 11 is formed) is torn, and the flame can be normally ejected. The ejected flame can move along the venting path (P) and be ejected to the outside of the battery pack (22) through a venting device (not shown) that can be provided in the pack case (700). At this time, the bottom surface of the cell frame (200) may preferably be made of a material that can be ruptured or melted by heat above a certain pressure, for example, a plastic material. Since the bottom surface of the cell frame (200) is normally closed, even if venting occurs in a neighboring battery cell (100), the venting gas or flame does not flow toward other battery cells (100) through the bottom surface of the cell frame (200).

[0128] The cell frame (200) can be bonded and fixed to the pack case (700) or the lower case (710). For example, the cell frame (200) can be bonded to the pack case (700) or the lower case (710) using a structural adhesive or the like. The bonding using a structural adhesive or the like can make the connection and fixing structure more solid.

[0129] The bottom of the battery cell (100) is secured to the cell frame (200). To this end, the bottom part (220) of the cell frame (200) includes a cell receiving portion for receiving the battery cell (100), and the cell receiving portion may be provided with a cell receiving groove (270) for receiving each battery cell (100). The depth of the cell receiving groove (270) is a depth at which a portion of the height of the battery cell (100) is inserted, and an adhesive (280) may be provided between the cell receiving groove (270) and the battery cell (100).

[0130] The cell receiving grooves (270) are arranged parallel to each other so that the battery cells (100) can be inserted respectively. The cell receiving grooves (270) are shaped to follow the outer circumference of the cylindrical battery cell (100). Therefore, the cell receiving grooves (270) are also cylindrical. The cell receiving grooves (270) can support the side and bottom surfaces of the battery cell (100) at the bottom of the battery cell (100).

[0131] The cell receiving groove (270) can separately receive the battery cells (100). When the battery cells (100) are inserted and received in an upright position in the cell receiving groove (270), movement in all directions can be prevented.

[0132] The vent portion (C) of each battery cell (100) is assembled in the vertical mounting direction of the cell frame (200) and is isolated from the vent portions (C) of other battery cells (100) by the structure of the cell frame (200) including the adhesive (280) and the cell receiving groove (270). Therefore, in the event of thermal runaway due to an abnormality occurring in one battery cell (100), the flame may not spread to the surrounding battery cells (100), thereby delaying heat propagation.

[0133] The adhesive (280) is interposed between the cell frame (200) and the battery cell (100) and is a waterproof adhesive. The adhesive (280) may be filled in a portion of the side of the battery cell (100) and between the vent portion (C) and the cell frame (200). Here, the waterproof adhesive may be an epoxy-based waterproof resin.

[0134] Since the adhesive (280) is applied not only to the side of the battery cell (100) but also to the vent part (C) to prevent exposure of the vent part (C), even if a thermal runaway occurs due to an abnormality in one of the battery cells (100), the flame is not transmitted to the surrounding battery cells (100), so it is not vulnerable to chain ignition.

[0135] The adhesive (280) can be applied to the cell frame (200) to stably fix the battery cell (100) and improve waterproof performance. The structure of the cell receiving groove (270) is such that the adhesive (280) and the battery cell (100) have a sufficient contact area at the contact surface.

[0136] In this way, the cell frame (200) fixes the basic position of the battery cell (100). Furthermore, it acts as the main rigid body of the battery assembly (14). Furthermore, when manufacturing the battery pack (22), it is possible to implement a venting path (P) through the protrusion (260). By providing the protrusion (260) at the lower part of the battery assembly (14), the space in which the battery assembly (14) is placed and the space in which the venting gas moves inside the pack case (700) can be vertically separated. In addition, the space in which the gas flows, i.e., the venting path (P), is divided into several regions by the protrusion (260), so that the discharge path of the gas can be diversified, and the volume of the total discharge path can also be increased. Therefore, the venting path (P) formed in the battery pack (22) of the present invention can be effective in smoothly discharging the venting gas to the outside of the battery pack (22) even if a large amount of venting gas is generated.

[0137] As described above, the frame wall (230) is erected upward from the bottom part (220), and the isolation part (300) can be installed on the step (240) of the frame wall (230).

[0138] The isolation part (300) may be placed on the step (240) at the top of the battery cell (100). The position of the step (240) is determined taking this into consideration. The top of the isolation part (300) may be lower than the bus bar (800). A non-metallic mesh (600') may be positioned on the bus bar (800) above the isolation part (300). As described above, the bus bar (800) is a component that provides electrical connections between battery cells (100). If the cooling medium (400) leaking into the bus bar (800) and the cell terminals comes into contact with it, it may cause a deterioration in the performance of the battery assembly including the battery cells (100). In addition, if the cooling medium (400) is water, a short circuit may occur when the cooling medium (400) comes into contact with the bus bar (800), which may cause ignition or explosion. The isolation part (300) and the filling member (500) according to the present embodiment separate the cooling path space (S) filled with the cooling medium (400) and the space where the electrical connection of the battery cells (100) is made, thereby minimizing the influence of the cooling medium (400) on the electrical connection of the battery cells (100) while maintaining the effect of increasing the cooling performance through direct cooling of the cooling medium (400).

[0139] The isolation part (300) is formed with holes (310) that each pass through the battery cell (100). The isolation part (300) can be configured to implement a cooling passage space (S) for a cooling medium (400) for direct cooling between the isolation part (300) and the cell frame (200). When the battery cell (100) is cylindrical, the hole (310) of the isolation part (300) can be circular, and when the battery cell (100) is square, the hole (310) of the isolation part (300) can be square.

[0140] The manufacturing process of such a battery assembly (14) may be as follows.

[0141] An adhesive (280) is applied to the cell frame (200), and the battery cell (100) is assembled. An isolation part (300) is placed on the step (240). After welding the bus bar (800) to the battery cell (100), a mesh (600') is placed on the isolation part (300), and a filling material (500) is applied. In the case where the cooling medium (400) has a flowing structure, after the battery assembly (14) is manufactured into a battery pack (22), the cooling medium (400) is supplied to the inside of the battery assembly (14) to fill the cooling passage space (S). In the case where the cooling medium (400) does not flow, a process of injecting the cooling medium (400) into the inside of the battery assembly (14) before or after applying the filling material (500) may be included.

[0142] According to the present invention, the assembly of the battery assembly (14) can be easily performed, thereby improving processability. Furthermore, since sealing components such as O-rings can be omitted, the number of components in the battery assembly (14) can be reduced. Therefore, according to this aspect of the present invention, manufacturing costs, time, weight, etc. can be reduced, thereby improving the productivity of the battery assembly (14).

[0143] In this way, the present invention can provide a simple and compact battery assembly (14) without complicating the overall structure and taking up a lot of space, and can suppress the occurrence of temperature deviation between one end and the other end of a battery cell (100) due to the direct cooling method. In addition, a battery pack (22) including such a battery assembly (14) and a vehicle including such a battery pack (22) can be provided. Such a battery pack (22) and a vehicle including such a battery pack (22) can have improved safety and durability.

[0144] Referring mainly to FIGS. 12 and 13, a protrusion (260) is formed on the cell frame (200). Here, the protrusion (260) may be formed in various ways. For example, the protrusion (260) may include a first protrusion (260a), a second protrusion (260b), and a third protrusion (260c). The first protrusions (260a) may be provided as a pair, and the pair of first protrusions (260a) may be formed on each of the opposite edges of the bottom part. In addition, the second protrusion (260b) may be formed between the pair of first protrusions (260a) so as to be parallel to the pair of first protrusions (260a). Here, the second protrusion (260b) may be formed at the exact center of the pair of first protrusions (260a), but is not limited thereto, and may be formed at various locations between the pair of first protrusions (260a). In addition, the second protrusion (260b) may be formed parallel to the pair of first protrusions (260a), but is not limited thereto. The third protrusion (260c) may be formed to intersect the second protrusion (260b). Here, the third protrusion (260c) may be formed to pass through the exact center of the second protrusion (260b), but is not limited thereto, and may be formed to pass through various locations of the second protrusion (260b). In addition, the third protrusion (260c) may be formed to be orthogonal to the second protrusion (260b), but is not limited thereto.

[0145] The number and height of the protrusions (260) can be varied depending on the required rigidity or the designer's intention. In addition, the height of the protrusions (260) and the spacing between adjacent protrusions (260) should be designed to secure a minimum space for rapid discharge of gases, flames, etc. Depending on the height of the protrusions (260) and the spacing between adjacent protrusions (260), the volume of the venting passage (P) can be varied.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 14, the protrusion (260) of the cell frame (200) is brought into contact with the lower case (710) of the pack case (700), thereby defining a venting path (P). The protrusion (260) is secured to the pack case (700) so as to prevent movement of gas or flame in the direction crossing the protrusion (260).

[0147] Flames can be discharged through these venting paths (P). By optimizing the vent direction thickness of the cell receiving groove (270), flames can be easily ejected when one of the battery cells (100) ignites. In this way, a venting path (P) can be created through the bottom surface structure of the cell frame (200), and when a battery cell (100) ignites, it can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack (22).

[0148] The battery cell (100) is stably accommodated in the cell receiving groove (270) and can be accommodated inside the pack case (700) with the vent portion (C) isolated from other battery cells (100) by an adhesive (280). In addition, the battery cell (100) can be accommodated inside the pack case (700) while being supported by the protrusion (260) of the cell frame (200). As mentioned above, since the vent portion (C) of the battery cell (100) is formed on the bottom side of the battery cell (100), high-temperature gas or flame discharged downward through the vent portion (C) can flow through the venting path (P) between the cell frame (200) and the pack case (700). The pack case (700) may further include a venting device so that gas and flame flowing through the venting path (P) can be quickly discharged to the outside of the pack case (700). The gas or flame generated from one battery cell (100) is blocked from spreading laterally inside the battery assembly (14) by the cell frame (200), and the gas or flame is blocked from spreading laterally inside the battery pack (22) by the cell frame (200) and the cross beam (740). In addition, the gas or flame may be blocked from spreading upwardly inside the battery assembly (14) by the filling member (500), and the gas or flame may be blocked from spreading upwardly inside the battery pack (22) by the filling member (500) and the upper case (730).

[0149] In this way, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (100) and high-temperature gas or flames are generated, the battery pack (22) according to the present invention can guide the gas or flames in a specific direction through the venting path (P) rather than in all directions through the cell frame (200) and discharge them to the outside of the pack case (700), and in the process of discharging the gas or flames to the outside of the pack case (700), other battery cells (100) can be prevented from receiving thermal damage as much as possible.

[0150] In addition, when gas is generally emitted from a battery cell, pieces of electrode plates or active materials inside the battery cell may be emitted to the outside in a high-temperature state, and these high-temperature particles may appear in the form of sparks. The battery pack (22) according to the present invention prevents high-temperature particles from easily escaping directly to the outside of the battery pack (22) even when they are emitted from the battery cell (100), and allows them to escape by sufficiently lowering the temperature while being guided through the venting path (P), which is the space between the cell frame (200) and the pack case (700), thereby preventing them from acting as a source of ignition outside the battery pack (22).

[0151] That is, in a conventional battery pack, the venting gas spreads in all directions inside the battery pack and is then discharged upward, or the venting gas is not easily discharged to the outside of the battery pack, and the time for discharging the venting gas becomes long, so there is a possibility that the safety of the battery pack may be significantly reduced. However, according to the present embodiment, the venting gas is discharged downwards of the battery assembly (14) and quickly guided in a specific direction through the venting path (P), so there is less possibility that it will spread in all directions inside the battery pack (22), and further chain ignition can be prevented.

[0152] In addition, according to the present invention, since the venting path (P) by the cell frame (200) and the pack case (700) is located below rather than above the battery pack (22), when high-temperature gas or flames are discharged from the battery cell (100) in a situation such as thermal runaway, the discharged gas or flames may not be directed upward. In particular, in a case where a passenger is positioned above the battery pack (22), such as in an electric vehicle, the above-described configuration can suppress or delay the gas or flames from being directed toward the passenger. In particular, according to the embodiment of the present invention, directional venting can be performed below the battery pack (22) and laterally connected thereto, thereby enhancing the safety of users positioned above, such as passengers.

[0153] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0154] Meanwhile, the present invention can provide a vehicle (V) characterized by including a battery pack (20 or 22) according to the above-described embodiment. That is, the battery pack (20 or 22) according to the present invention can be applied to a vehicle such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. For example, the battery pack (20 or 22) can be installed in a body frame under a vehicle seat or in a trunk space.

[0155] It goes without saying that the battery pack (20 or 22) according to the present invention can be applied to ESS (Energy Storage System) and various electrical devices in addition to automobiles. In this way, devices, apparatus, and equipment equipped with a battery pack (20 or 22), such as the automobile (V) according to the embodiment of the present invention, can be implemented while including the aforementioned battery pack (20 or 22) and thus having all the advantages of the aforementioned battery pack (20 or 22).

[0156] In other words, the vehicle (V) includes a battery pack (20 or 22), which includes a battery assembly (10, 12, 14) as described above, thereby providing a battery pack (20 or 22) with excellent cooling performance and improved waterproof reliability. Therefore, the vehicle (V) including the same is safe and easy to operate.

[0157] In addition, the battery pack (22) can efficiently discharge high-temperature gases and flames, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack (22) and extending the flame travel path. Accordingly, even if a problem occurs with the battery pack (22) while the vehicle (V) is being driven, stability is maintained. In addition, since this battery pack (22) has excellent stability and can be used for a long time, the vehicle (V) including it is safe and easy to operate.

[0158] In this way, the vehicle (V) including the battery pack (20 or 22) of the present invention has improved safety and durability.

[0159] In addition, the battery assembly (12, 14) can eliminate the risk of cracks occurring at the interface of the potting resin or inside the potting resin layer when subjected to vibration / shock, thereby further improving waterproof reliability, and thus the battery pack (20 or 22) including the same is very advantageous for application to automobiles (V) that are frequently exposed to external vibrations.

[0160] As is well known, ESS stores renewable energy such as solar and wind power, which are difficult to produce at desired times, in advance and allows them to be used when needed. In order to configure a standalone system that stores hundreds of kWh or more of power, a battery pack (20 or 22) according to the present invention can be used to store power in such an ESS. As described above, the battery pack (20 or 22) according to the present invention includes the battery assembly (10, 12, 14) according to the present invention, thereby providing excellent cooling performance and reliable waterproofing performance. In addition, even if a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100) and high-temperature gas or flames are generated, these can be quickly discharged to the outside of the pack case (700). Therefore, even if a problem occurs in some battery packs, the stability of the ESS is maintained and the spread of fire can be prevented.

[0161] Meanwhile, referring back to FIG. 3, in the case of the battery assembly (10) described above, the cell frame (200) and the isolation part (300) may be separate parts, and the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230) of the cell frame (200) may be integral with each other. However, as described above, this is an exemplary structure, and the bottom part (220), the frame wall (230) and the isolation part (300) of the cell frame (200) may be integral with each other or may be separate parts. That is, the isolation part (300) in the present invention is a term that encompasses both a part that is separate from the cell frame and a part that is integral with the cell frame. Hereinafter, modified embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 18.

[0162] Figures 16 to 18 are cross-sectional views of battery assemblies according to modified embodiments of the present invention.

[0163] First, referring to FIG. 16, in a battery assembly (10a) according to a modified embodiment, the isolation part (300) and the frame wall (230) of the cell frame (200) may be integral with each other. In addition, the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230) of the cell frame (200) may be separate parts, and the frame wall (230) may be assembled on the bottom part (220).

[0164] The isolation part (300) and the frame wall (230) of the cell frame (200) may be an integral part manufactured by integral injection molding.

[0165] A step structure for assembly may be provided between the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230), and additional waterproof adhesive may be applied to the portion where the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230) are assembled. In addition, although not specifically illustrated, a fastening structure using bolts and nuts may be applied to the assembly between the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230).

[0166] Referring to FIG. 17 below, in a battery assembly (10b) according to a modified embodiment, the isolation part (300) and the frame wall (230) of the cell frame (200) are separate parts, which is the same as the battery assembly (10) in FIG. 3. The isolation part (300) may be placed on the step (240) of the frame wall (230). However, the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230) in the cell frame (200) may be separate parts, and the frame wall (230) may be assembled on the bottom part (220). A step structure for assembly may be provided between the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230), and an additional waterproof adhesive may be applied to the portion where the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230) are assembled to each other. In addition, although not specifically shown, a fastening structure using bolts and nuts may be applied to the assembly between the bottom part (220) and the frame wall (230).

[0167] Referring to the following Figure 18, in a battery assembly (10c) according to a modified embodiment, the bottom part (220) of the cell frame (200), the frame wall (230), and the isolation part (300) may all be integral. The bottom part (220), the frame wall (230), and the isolation part (300) may all be injection-molded as an integral part and manufactured at once.

[0168] As described above, although the present invention has been described by limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical 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.

[0169] Description of the symbol

[0170] 10, 12, 14: Battery assembly 20, 22: Battery pack

[0171] 100: Battery Cell 200: Cell Frame

[0172] 210: Top opening 220: Bottom part

[0173] 230: Frame wall 240: Step

[0174] 250: Flange part 260: Protrusion part

[0175] 270: Cell receiving groove 280: Adhesive

[0176] 300: Isolation Part 310: Hall

[0177] 400: Cooling medium 500: Filling material

[0178] 600: Porous member 610: Hole

[0179] 710: Lower case 720: Side case

[0180] 730: Upper case 740: Cross beam

[0181] 800: Busbar C: Vent

[0182] P: Venting Euro S: Cooling Euro Space

[0183] V: Car

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells; a cell frame accommodating the plurality of battery cells; and Including a filling member sealing the upper part of the cell frame; A battery assembly comprising a cooling passage space defining a cooling medium-filled space between the plurality of battery cells and an isolation part insulating the cooling passage space from the filling member.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly characterized in that it further includes a porous member having a plurality of holes, positioned between the isolation part and the filling member or inside the filling member.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery assembly, characterized in that the filling material extends to the top of the battery cell by penetrating the hole of the porous material.

4. In paragraph 2, A battery assembly, characterized in that the porous member has one or more layers.

5. In paragraph 2, A battery assembly, characterized in that the porous member is a non-metallic mesh.

6. In paragraph 5, A battery assembly, characterized in that the mesh size is 5 to 50 mesh.

7. In paragraph 5, A battery assembly, characterized in that the thickness of the mesh is 30㎛ to 500㎛.

8. In paragraph 5, A battery assembly, characterized in that the material of the above mesh is nylon, PP or PE.

9. In paragraph 1, The above cell frame comprises a bottom part including a cell receiving portion that receives the plurality of battery cells, Including a frame wall extending upward from the above bottom part, The above frame wall has a step on the inside of the cell frame, A battery assembly characterized in that the isolation part is mounted on the above-mentioned step.

10. In paragraph 1, The above cell frame includes a bottom part including a cell receiving portion that receives the plurality of battery cells, A battery assembly characterized in that the cell receiving portion is provided with a cell receiving groove that receives each of the plurality of battery cells, the depth of the cell receiving groove is a depth into which a portion of the height of the battery cell is inserted, and an adhesive is provided between the cell receiving groove and the battery cell.

11. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly characterized in that the isolation part has holes formed therein to penetrate each of the plurality of battery cells.

12. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly further characterized by including a bus bar forming an electrical connection between the battery cells at the upper end of the battery cells.

13. In paragraph 12, The upper part of the above isolation part is the battery assembly which is lower than the above bus bar.

14. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly characterized in that the above filling material is made of potting resin.

15. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly, characterized in that the cooling medium is water or insulating oil.

16. A battery pack comprising a battery assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. Battery assembly; and A pack case comprising: a battery assembly; The above battery assembly, Multiple battery cells; A cell frame accommodating the plurality of battery cells; A filling member sealing the upper part of the cell frame; and It includes a cooling passage space defining a cooling medium filled between the plurality of battery cells and an isolation part isolating the cooling passage space from the filling member; A battery pack wherein the cell frame forms a venting path for gases or flames generated in the battery assembly between the cell frame and the pack case.

18. In paragraph 17, A battery pack characterized in that the cell frame includes a protrusion protruding downward on the lower surface, and the protrusion makes surface contact with the pack case to define the venting path.

19. In Article 17, The above cell frame comprises a bottom part including a cell receiving portion that receives the plurality of battery cells, Including a frame wall extending upward from the above bottom part, The above frame wall has a step on the inside of the cell frame, A battery pack characterized in that the isolation part is mounted on the above-mentioned step.

20. In paragraph 17, The above cell frame includes a bottom part including a cell receiving portion that receives the plurality of battery cells, A battery pack characterized in that the cell receiving portion is provided with a cell receiving groove that receives each of the plurality of battery cells, the depth of the cell receiving groove is a depth into which a portion of the height of the battery cell is inserted, and an adhesive is provided between the cell receiving groove and the battery cell.

21. In paragraph 17, Further comprising a bus bar for electrical connection between the battery cells at the top of the battery cells, The above isolation part has a hole formed to penetrate each of the plurality of battery cells, The upper part of the above isolation part is lower than the above bus bar, A battery pack characterized in that the above-mentioned filling material is provided with potting resin.

22. In paragraph 17, A battery pack characterized in that the battery cell includes a vent portion provided at the bottom of the battery cell through which gas inside the battery cell is discharged.

23. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 17 to 22.

Images