Battery module and battery pack including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module and a battery pack including same, and the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a module frame accommodating the battery cell stack; and end plates covering the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack, wherein the module frame includes an upper cover positioned while covering the battery cell stack and including venting holes which are a plurality of holes, and a spacer assembly is positioned on the upper cover.

Description

Battery module and battery pack including same

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

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0116500, filed September 1, 2023, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0117066, filed September 4, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The present invention relates to a battery module and a battery pack including the same, and more specifically, to a battery module having improved safety by securing structural robustness, and a battery pack including the same.

[0004] As technological developments and demand for mobile devices increase, the demand for secondary batteries as an energy source is rapidly increasing. Accordingly, extensive research is being conducted on secondary batteries that can meet diverse needs.

[0005] Secondary batteries are attracting much attention not only as an energy source for mobile devices such as cell phones, digital cameras, and laptops, but also as a power source for power devices such as electric bicycles, electric cars, and hybrid electric vehicles.

[0006] Recently, as the need for large-capacity secondary battery structures has increased, including the use of secondary batteries as energy storage sources, the demand for battery packs with medium- to large-sized module structures that assemble battery modules in which a number of secondary batteries are connected in series / parallel is increasing.

[0007] Meanwhile, when configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series / parallel, it is common to configure a battery module composed of at least one battery cell, and then configure the battery pack by adding other components using at least one battery module. Since the battery cells that make up these medium- to large-sized battery modules are composed of secondary batteries that can be charged and discharged, such high-output, large-capacity secondary batteries generate a large amount of heat during the charging and discharging process. In this case, the heat from multiple battery cells can accumulate in a narrow space, causing the temperature to rise rapidly and severely. In other words, battery modules in which multiple battery cells are stacked and battery packs equipped with such battery modules can achieve high output, but it is not easy to remove the heat generated from the battery cells during charging and discharging. If the heat dissipation of the battery cells is not properly performed, the battery cells deteriorate quickly, shortening their lifespan and increasing the possibility of explosion or fire.

[0008] Moreover, battery modules included in vehicle battery packs are frequently exposed to direct sunlight and may be subjected to high-temperature conditions, such as summer or desert environments. Furthermore, because multiple battery modules are densely packed together to increase vehicle range, flames or heat generated in one battery module can easily spread to neighboring modules, ultimately leading to ignition or explosion of the battery pack itself.

[0009] Therefore, there are attempts to facilitate the discharge of high-temperature gases and flames to reduce the occurrence of problems such as the above.

[0010] Fig. 1 is a drawing showing a conventional battery module. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of Fig. 1.

[0011] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a conventional battery module (10) includes a lower frame (11) on which a battery cell stack (21) in which a plurality of battery cells (20) are stacked is mounted, an upper frame (12) positioned while covering the upper portion of the battery cell stack (21), a bus bar assembly (40) positioned on the front and rear surfaces (x-axis direction and -x-axis direction) of the battery cell stack (21), and an end plate (50) covering the open front and rear surfaces of the module frames (11, 12).

[0012] In a conventional battery module (10), if high-temperature gas or flames are generated from one battery cell (20), there is no configuration to safely discharge them to the outside, so there is a possibility that the pressure and temperature inside the battery module (10) will increase and eventually explode. If the battery module (10) explodes, the structure of the battery pack will also be thermally deformed, making it difficult to smoothly discharge gas and flames to the outside, and thus flames will be exposed to the outside, which may lower safety.

[0013] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module with improved structural robustness and safety and a battery pack including the same.

[0014] However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the problems described above and can be expanded in various ways within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present invention.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery module includes a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a module frame that accommodates the battery cell stack; and an end plate that covers the front and back surfaces of the battery cell stack, wherein the module frame is positioned while covering the battery cell stack and includes an upper cover including a plurality of venting holes, and a spacer assembly can be positioned on the upper cover.

[0016] The spacer assembly may include a support member positioned on the upper cover, and a spacer positioned on the support member.

[0017] The above spacer has a certain height, and the height of the spacer may be greater than the height of the support.

[0018] The spacer assembly may further include a first spacer and a second spacer coupled to the first spacer, wherein the first spacer may include a first-first surface in contact with the support, a first-second surface in contact with the second spacer, and an insertion hole extending in a direction perpendicular to the first-first surface and the first-second surface so that the second spacer is inserted and positioned.

[0019] The second spacer can be inserted through the insertion hole of the first spacer and positioned in a hooked manner on the first-1 surface and the first-2 surface.

[0020] The second spacer includes a second-first protrusion and a second-second protrusion that protrude in a direction perpendicular to the height direction of the second spacer, and a concave portion provided between the second-first protrusion and the second-second protrusion, and the concave portion may be an area that is concavely formed toward the center of the second spacer based on the outer peripheral surface of the second-first protrusion and the second-second protrusion.

[0021] The above 2-1 protrusion can be positioned while in contact with the 1-1 surface, and the above 2-2 protrusion can be positioned while in contact with the 1-2 surface.

[0022] The outer surface of the above concave portion can be positioned so as to be in contact with the surfaces forming the insertion hole.

[0023] The first spacer may comprise steel, and the second spacer may comprise an elastomer.

[0024] The above support member may be located on the upper cover excluding the venting hole.

[0025] The support portion may include a first support portion extending along the width direction of the upper cover, and a second support portion formed by branching and extending from the first support portion and extending along the length direction of the upper cover in a direction perpendicular to the first support portion.

[0026] The first support portion may include a first-first support portion located at one end of the upper cover, and a first-second support portion located at the other end of the upper cover.

[0027] The second support portion may extend from the first-first support portion toward the first-second support portion.

[0028] The second support member may be positioned to extend along the space between the venting holes located in the upper cover and the space between the venting holes and the side surface of the upper cover.

[0029] The above support portion may further include a joining portion, which is an area that protrudes vertically in the opposite direction from the second support portion in the first support portion.

[0030] The above-mentioned joint includes a joint hole penetrating the joint in the height direction, and a defect groove is provided in an area of ​​the end plate corresponding to the joint hole, and the fastening member can be coupled with the joint groove while passing through the joint hole.

[0031] A battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention may include at least one battery module as described above; a lower pack frame that accommodates the at least one battery module; and an upper pack frame that covers the at least one battery module and is positioned in combination with the lower pack frame.

[0032] The spacer assembly includes a support portion positioned on the upper cover, and a spacer positioned on the support portion and having a constant height, one surface of the spacer is positioned in contact with the support portion, and the other surface of the spacer can be positioned in contact with the upper pack frame.

[0033] The spacer may include a first spacer positioned in contact with the support, and a second spacer assembled and coupled to the first spacer and positioned in contact with the upper pack frame.

[0034] Between the upper cover and the upper pack frame, a venting area with a space equal to the height of the spacer may be provided.

[0035] According to embodiments, by providing a spacer assembly, the structural strength of the battery pack can be secured while also securing a venting path inside the battery pack, thereby improving the safety of the battery.

[0036] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0037] Figure 1 is a drawing showing a conventional battery module.

[0038] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of Figure 1.

[0039] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack of Figure 3.

[0041] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of Figure 5.

[0043] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the spacer assembly of Figure 5.

[0044] Figure 8 is a drawing showing area A1 of Figure 5.

[0045] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the spacer assembly of Fig. 9.

[0047] Figure 11 is a drawing showing area B1 of Figure 5.

[0048] Fig. 12 is a perspective view through the spacer of Fig. 10.

[0049] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the first spacer of Fig. 12.

[0050] Figure 14 is a side view of the second spacer of Figure 12.

[0051] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the structural connection relationship between a battery module and a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0053] In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts that are not related to the description are omitted, and the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0054] Furthermore, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily indicated for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to the illustrated components. In the drawings, the thicknesses are enlarged to clearly represent various layers and regions. Furthermore, in the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated for convenience of explanation.

[0055] Furthermore, when we say that a layer, membrane, region, plate, or other part is "on" or "over" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "directly on" the other part, but also cases where there are other parts in between. Conversely, when we say that a part is "directly on" another part, we mean that there are no other parts in between. Furthermore, saying that a part is "on" or "over" a reference part means that it is located above or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean that it is located "above" or "over" the reference part in the opposite direction of gravity.

[0056] Additionally, throughout the specification, whenever a part is said to "include" a component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0057] Additionally, throughout the specification, when we say "in plan", we mean when the target portion is viewed from above, and when we say "in cross section", we mean when the target portion is viewed from the side in a cross-section cut vertically.

[0058] Additionally, while the first and second terms used in this application may be used to describe various components, the components should not be limited by the terms. The terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0059] In addition, in the present application, the upper and lower may be defined as meaning the z-axis direction and the -z-axis direction, respectively, the side as meaning the y-axis direction and the -y-axis direction, and the front and rear as meaning the x-axis direction and the -x-axis direction, respectively, but these are arbitrarily defined within the specification for convenience, and the scope of rights is not limited to these names.

[0060] And, in this specification, the inner direction may be said to mean the direction toward the center of the battery module, and the outer direction may be said to mean the direction toward the outside of the battery module.

[0061] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack of Fig. 3.

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a battery pack (1000) according to the present embodiment includes a lower pack frame (1100) on which at least one battery module (100) is mounted, and an upper pack frame (1200) positioned above the battery module (100). Here, the lower pack frame (1100) and the upper pack frame (1200) can be joined to each other by a method such as welding, thereby sealing the inside of the battery pack (1000).

[0063] The lower pack frame (1100) has at least two internal beams (1110) and a side pack frame (1150) formed on the bottom surface of the lower pack frame (1100). More specifically, the lower pack frame (1100) includes at least two internal beams (1110) and a side pack frame (1150) protruding from the bottom surface of the lower pack frame (1100) toward the upper frame (1200). Here, the bottom surface of the lower pack frame (1100) may be joined to the at least two internal beams (1110) and the side pack frame (1150) by a method such as welding.

[0064] The side pack frame (1150) may extend along the edge of the bottom surface of the lower pack frame (1100). More specifically, the side pack frame (1150) may extend along each corner of the bottom surface of the lower pack frame (1100). Here, the upper surface of the side pack frame (1150) may be in contact with the upper pack frame (1200). At this time, the upper surface of the side pack frame (1150) and the upper pack frame (1200) may be joined to each other by a method such as welding, thereby sealing the inside of the battery pack (1000).

[0065] At least two of the inner beams (1110) may be vertical beams, which may be formed by extrusion molding. In this drawing, the at least two inner beams (1110) are only shown as being positioned in the x-axis direction, but are not limited thereto, and may also be cross beams positioned while crossing the lower pack frame (1100) in the y-axis direction.

[0066] The side pack frame (1150) and at least two internal beams (1110) may partition a plurality of battery modules (100) from each other. In other words, a plurality of battery modules (100) may be respectively arranged in an area located between the side pack frame (1150) and the at least two internal beams (1110). More specifically, in the battery pack (1000), a pair of battery modules (100) may be arranged between a pair of internal beams (1110) that are adjacent to each other among the at least two internal beams (1110) and the side pack frame (1150). Here, the pair of battery modules (100) may be arranged in a direction that is spaced apart from each other but faces each other. For example, the pair of battery modules (100) may be arranged in a direction that the end plates (not shown) included in each battery module (100) face each other.

[0067] In this case, at least two inner beams (1110) may be spaced apart from each other. The distance at which at least two inner beams (1110) are spaced apart may be equal to or greater than the size of the battery module (100). In addition, the ends of the inner beams (1110) may be in contact with the inner surface of the side pack frame (1150). More specifically, both ends of the inner beams (1110) may be in contact with the inner surface of the side pack frame (1150), respectively.

[0068] Accordingly, at least two inner beams (1110) and side pack frames (1150) surround a plurality of battery modules (100), thereby protecting each battery module (100) from external impact.

[0069] The battery module (100) mounted on the battery pack (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0070] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of Fig. 5.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a battery module (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell stack (120) in which a plurality of battery cells (110) are stacked along one direction, a module frame (200) that accommodates the battery cell stack (120), a bus bar frame (400) positioned on the front and / or rear surface of the battery cell stack (120), an end plate (500) that covers the front and / or rear surface of the battery cell stack (120), a thermally conductive resin layer (600) that adhesively fixes the battery cell stack (120) to the module frame (200), and a spacer assembly (700) positioned on the module frame (200).

[0072] First, the battery cell (110) may be a pouch-shaped battery cell. Such a pouch-shaped battery cell may be formed by housing an electrode assembly in a pouch case made of a laminate sheet including a resin layer and a metal layer, and then heat-sealing the sealing portion of the pouch case. In this case, the battery cell (110) may be formed in a rectangular sheet-shaped structure.

[0073] These battery cells (110) may be configured in multiple numbers, and the multiple battery cells (110) may be stacked so as to be electrically connected to each other to form a battery cell stack (120). In particular, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the multiple battery cells (110) may be stacked along a direction parallel to the y-axis.

[0074] A module frame (200) that accommodates a battery cell stack (120) may include a lower frame (210) and an upper cover (220).

[0075] The lower frame (210) may include a bottom portion (210a) and two side portions (211) extending upward from both ends of the bottom portion (210a). The bottom portion (210a) may cover the lower portion (-z-axis direction) of the battery cell stack (120), and the side portions (211) may cover both side portions (y-axis direction and -y-axis direction) of the battery cell stack (120).

[0076] Although not disclosed in the present invention, the lower frame (210) may have a bottom portion (210a) that forms part of a heat sink. For example, the bottom portion (210a) may form the upper surface of the heat sink. In this case, the heat sink may be formed integrally with one surface of the module frame (200), thereby improving the cooling performance of the battery module and simultaneously increasing the energy density of the battery.

[0077] The upper cover (220) may be configured to cover the upper portion of the battery cell stack (120). The upper cover (220) may be a plate-shaped member that covers the upper portion of the battery cell stack (120). The upper cover (220) may be a plate-shaped member that covers the upper portion (z-axis direction) of the battery cell stack (120) except for the lower portion and both side portions that are wrapped by the lower frame (210).

[0078] The upper cover (220) and the lower frame (210) can form a structure that covers the battery cell stack (120) in all directions by being joined by welding or the like with corresponding corner portions in contact. Accordingly, the battery cell stack (120) can be physically protected through the upper cover (220) and the lower frame (210). To this end, the upper cover (220) and the lower frame (210) can include a metal material having a predetermined strength.

[0079] The upper cover (220) may include a plurality of venting holes (221) penetrating the upper cover (220).

[0080] The venting hole (221) may be a hole that penetrates the upper cover (220) in the height direction (z-axis direction). When venting gas is generated in the battery cell (110), the venting gas and particles may move from the inside of the module frame (200) to the outside through the venting hole (221).

[0081] The module frame (200) may be intended to protect the battery cell stack (120) and electrical components connected thereto from external physical impact. The module frame (200) may accommodate the battery cell stack (120) and electrical components connected thereto in the internal space of the module frame (200).

[0082] Meanwhile, although not specifically illustrated, the structure of the module frame (200) is not limited thereto, and the module frame (200) according to a modified example may be a monoframe in the form of a metal plate in which the upper surface, lower surface, and both side surfaces are integrated. That is, rather than a structure in which the lower frame (210) and the upper cover (220) are mutually coupled, it may be a structure in which the upper surface, lower surface, and both side surfaces are integrated by being manufactured through extrusion molding.

[0083] In addition, the structure of the module frame (200) may be provided as an L-shaped frame in addition to a mono-frame or a U-shaped frame, and the upper cover (220) may cover the upper portion and both side portions of the battery cell stack (120) together like the lower frame (210) of the present invention, and may be provided in various structures not described in the above-described examples.

[0084] The module frame (200) may be provided in an open form along the longitudinal direction (x-axis direction) of the battery cell stack (120). In this case, the front and rear sides of the battery cell stack (120) may not be covered by the module frame (200). The front and rear sides of the battery cell stack (120) may be covered by a bus bar assembly (400) and an end plate (500) to be described later, and through this, the front and rear sides of the battery cell stack (120) may be protected from external physical impacts, etc.

[0085] The busbar assembly (400) includes a busbar frame (410) and a busbar (430) mounted on one surface of the busbar frame (410).

[0086] The busbar frame (410) may be positioned on one side of the battery cell stack (120) to cover one side of the battery cell stack (120) and simultaneously guide the connection between the battery cell stack (120) and an external device. The busbar frame (410) may be positioned on the front and / or rear side of the battery cell stack (120). A busbar (430) may be mounted on the busbar frame (410).

[0087] The busbar frame (410) may include an electrically insulating material. The busbar frame (410) may limit contact between the busbar (430) and other parts of the battery cells (110) other than the part where the busbar is connected to the electrode lead, thereby preventing electrical short circuits from occurring.

[0088] The bus bar (430) is mounted on one side of the bus bar frame (410) and may be used to electrically connect the battery cell (110) or the battery cell stack (120) with an external device circuit. The bus bar (430) is positioned on the bus bar frame (410) and covered by the end plate (500), thereby being protected from external impacts, etc., and minimizing the deterioration of durability due to external moisture, etc.

[0089] The end plate (500) can be joined (bonded, sealed, or airtight) to the module frame (200) while covering the busbar assembly (400) located on one side of the battery cell stack (120). Each corner of the end plate (500) can be joined to a corresponding corner of the module frame (200) by a method such as welding.

[0090] That is, the end plate (500) can protect the battery cell stack (120) and electrical components connected thereto from external physical impact by sealing the open surface of the module frame (200). To this end, the end plate (500) can be manufactured from a material having a predetermined strength. For example, the end plate (500) can include a metal such as aluminum.

[0091] The thermally conductive resin layer (600) can be positioned in contact with one side of the module frame (200). The thermally conductive resin layer (600) can be positioned in contact with the battery cell stack (120) and the bottom part (210a) of the module frame (200). That is, one side of the thermally conductive resin layer (600) is in contact with the battery cell stack (120), and the other side of the thermally conductive resin layer (600) is positioned in contact with the bottom part (210a) of the module frame (200), so that heat generated from the battery cells (110) can be transferred to the outside through the module frame (200).

[0092] The spacer assembly (700) may be positioned on the upper cover (220). The spacer assembly (700) may be positioned on the outer surface of the upper cover (220).

[0093] The spacer assembly (700) may be positioned on the upper cover (220) while having a certain height. In this case, the spacer assembly (700) may be positioned in contact with the upper cover (220) and the upper pack frame (1200, see FIGS. 3 and 4) of the battery pack facing the upper cover (220).

[0094] Accordingly, the spacer assembly (700) can form and maintain a certain space between the upper cover (220) and the upper pack frame (1200). As a result, even if thermal deformation of the upper pack frame (1200) occurs at a high temperature when a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs in the battery module (100), the venting path between the battery module (100) and the battery pack can be maintained by supporting the upper pack frame (1200) with the spacer assembly (700). That is, by securing a movement path for venting gas and particles generated in the battery module (100), rapid heat dissipation to the outside of the battery pack can be promoted. Through this, by lowering the temperature and pressure inside the battery, explosion or external exposure to flames can be prevented, thereby improving the safety of the battery.

[0095] This spacer assembly (700) will be described in more detail below.

[0096] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the spacer assembly of Fig. 5. Fig. 8 is a drawing showing area A1 of Fig. 5.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, in a battery module (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a spacer assembly (700) provided in the upper cover (200) can be positioned in combination with an end plate (500).

[0098] A spacer assembly (700) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a support member (710) and a spacer (730).

[0099] The support (710) may be a single thin plate positioned on the upper cover (220). The support (710) may serve as a support on which a spacer (730) may be positioned. One surface of the support (710) may be positioned in contact with the upper cover (220), and the other surface of the support (710) may be positioned in contact with the spacer (730).

[0100] Specifically, the support portion (710) may be positioned on the upper cover (220) excluding the venting hole (221). In this case, the support portion (710) may include a first support portion (711) extending along the width (y-axis direction) of the upper cover (220), and a second support portion (712) extending along the length direction (x-axis direction) of the upper cover (220) in a direction perpendicular to the first support portion (711).

[0101] The first support member (711) may be located at one end and the other end of the upper cover (220). At this time, the one end and the other end of the upper cover (220) may refer to edges located at the front and rear sides of the upper cover (220), respectively.

[0102] In this case, the first support part (711) located at one end of the upper cover (220) may be defined as the 1-1 support part (711a), and the first support part (711) located at the other end of the upper cover (220) may be defined as the 1-2 support part (711b). The 1-1 support part (711a) and the 1-2 support part (711b) may be positioned facing each other.

[0103] The second support member (712) may be configured to extend in a vertical direction from the first support member (711). Specifically, the second support member (712) may extend from the first-first support member (711a) toward the first-second support member (712b).

[0104] The second support member (712) may be positioned to extend along the space between the venting holes (221) located in the upper cover (220) and the space between the venting holes (221) and the side surface of the upper cover (220).

[0105] According to this drawing, the second support portion (712) may be provided by branching and extending into four from the first support portion (711). However, the number of the second support portions (712) is not limited thereto, and may include any configuration that can be easily changed from the perspective of a person skilled in the art.

[0106] In addition, according to this drawing, since the venting holes (221) are positioned in a zigzag shape on the upper cover (220), the second support portion (712) may not extend in a straight line. That is, the direction in which the second support portion (712) extends may change depending on the position of the venting holes (221). Specifically, in some cases, a plurality of second support portions (712) may be connected as one and extended, or a single second support portion (712) may be branched into two and extended. The shape of this second support portion (712) is not limited to this drawing, and may be provided in various shapes depending on the position of the venting holes (221), etc.

[0107] Additionally, the support member (710) may include a connecting member (715) protruding in a vertical direction from the first support member (711).

[0108] The connecting portion (715) may be an area that protrudes in a vertical direction from the first support portion (711) and may be an area that protrudes in the opposite direction from the second support portion (712). That is, the connecting portion (715) may be an area that protrudes in the opposite direction from the second support portion (712) from the first-first support portion (711a) and the first-second support portion (711b).

[0109] The connecting portion (715) can be combined with the end plate (500) to allow the support portion (710) to be positioned more stably on the upper cover (220).

[0110] Specifically, referring to FIG. 8, the coupling portion (715) can be fixedly positioned on the upper cover (220) by being coupled through the end plate (500) and the fastening member (900).

[0111] The coupling portion (715) may include a coupling hole (716) through which the fastening member (900) may pass. The coupling hole (716) may be a hole that penetrates the coupling portion (715) in the height direction (z-axis direction).

[0112] The end plate (500) may include a joining groove (510) provided on one surface facing the joining hole (716).

[0113] The coupling hole (716) and the coupling groove (510) may be positioned facing each other. In this case, the fastening member (900) may be fixed by being coupled with the coupling groove (510) while passing through the coupling hole (716). The fastening member (900) may be, for example, a bolt and nut, or a screw.

[0114] Since the joining hole (716) and the joining groove (510) are joined by the fastening member (900), the support member (710) can be more firmly fixedly joined to the end plate (500). Accordingly, the support member (710) can be stably positioned on the upper cover (220).

[0115] A spacer (730) may be positioned on the support member (710). There may be a plurality of spacers (730). The spacer (730) may be positioned on the support member (710) and may have a configuration having a constant height. Referring to FIGS. 5 to 8, the spacer (730) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape having a constant height, but is not limited to this shape and may have other shapes as described below.

[0116] One side of the spacer (730) may be positioned in contact with the support (710), and the other side of the spacer (730) may be positioned in contact with the upper pack frame (1200, see FIGS. 3 and 4) facing the upper cover (220). Accordingly, the spacer (730) may enable a certain space to be formed and maintained between the upper cover (220) and the upper pack frame (1200). Here, the space formed between the upper cover (220) and the upper pack frame (1200) may be a venting path through which the venting gas discharged through the venting hole (221) may move within the battery pack. This will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 15.

[0117] The spacer (730) may have a much greater height than the support member (710). Specifically, the support member (710) may be a member such as a thin plate, and the spacer (730) may have a configuration having a greater height than the support member (710). Accordingly, a certain space may be formed between the upper cover (220) and the upper pack frame (1200) as high as the spacer (730), and the space may be a venting path through which venting gas generated from the battery module (100) may move within the battery pack.

[0118] The spacer assembly (700) including the support member (710) and the spacer (730) may be formed of a material that is rigid and resistant to high temperatures. For example, the spacer assembly (700) may include steel. The support member (710) and the spacer (730) may be joined by welding.

[0119] Since the spacer assembly (700) includes steel, even if a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs in the battery module (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the shape of the spacer assembly (700) can be maintained at high temperatures.

[0120] Meanwhile, the spacer (730) is not limited to the aforementioned shape, and as described below, the spacer (830) may be formed by combining a first spacer (831) and a spacer (835). This will be described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 9 to 14.

[0121] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the spacer assembly of Fig. 9. Fig. 11 is a drawing showing area B1 of Fig. 5. Fig. 12 is a transparent perspective view of the spacer of Fig. 10. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the first spacer of Fig. 12. Fig. 14 is a side view of the second spacer of Fig. 12. Meanwhile, in the following, the same or equivalent drawing reference numerals are attached to the same or equivalent components as those of the battery modules according to the embodiments illustrated in Figs. 5 to 8, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 14, a spacer (830) according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a first spacer (831) positioned in connection with a support member (810), and a second spacer (835) positioned in assembly with the first spacer (831). The first spacer (831) and the second spacer (835) may be formed of the same material, or may be formed of different materials.

[0123] The first spacer (831) can be positioned in contact with the support member (810) so that a certain space can be formed and maintained between the upper cover (220) and the upper pack frame (1100).

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the first spacer (831) may be configured to have a flat surface at the top and bottom, and a hole provided in the center and having a constant height. Here, the lower surface of the first spacer (831) may be the 1-1 surface (832), the upper surface may be the 1-2 surface (833), and the hole provided in the center may be an insertion hole (834).

[0125] The first-first surface (832) may be a surface in contact with the support (810), and the first-second surface (833) may be a surface in contact with the second spacer (835).

[0126] The insertion hole (834) is a hole extending in a direction perpendicular to the first-first surface (832) and the first-second surface (833), and may be a hole penetrating the first-first surface (832) and the first-second surface (833). A second spacer (835) may be inserted and positioned in the insertion hole (834).

[0127] The first spacer (831) may be formed of a material that is rigid and resistant to high temperatures. For example, the first spacer (831) may include steel. Since the first spacer (831) includes steel, even if a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs in the battery module (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the shape of the spacer (830) can be maintained at high temperatures.

[0128] The second spacer (835) can be positioned by being assembled and coupled to the first spacer (831).

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, the second spacer (835) can be inserted through the insertion hole (834) of the first spacer (831) and then positioned in a hooked state on the first-first surface (832) and the first-second surface (833).

[0130] The second spacer (835) includes a second-first protrusion (836) and a second-second protrusion (837) that protrude in a direction perpendicular to the height direction of the second spacer (835), and a concave portion (838) may be provided between the second-first protrusion (836) and the second-second protrusion (837). Here, the second-first protrusion (836) may be a protrusion located at the lower portion of the second spacer (835), and the second-second protrusion (837) may be a protrusion located at the upper portion of the second spacer (835).

[0131] The concave portion (838) may be an area of ​​the second spacer (835) that is concave toward the center based on the outer surface of the second-1 protrusion (836) and the second-2 protrusion (837).

[0132] The concave portion (838) of the second spacer (835) can be positioned by being mounted in the insertion hole (834) of the first spacer (831). Specifically, the outer circumferential surface of the concave portion (838) can be positioned so as to be in contact with the surfaces forming the insertion hole (834) of the first spacer (831).

[0133] At this time, the 2-1 protrusion (836) of the 2nd spacer (835) may be positioned in contact with the 1-1 surface (832) of the 1st spacer (831), and the 2-2 protrusion (837) of the 2nd spacer (835) may be positioned in contact with the 1-2 surface (833) of the 1st spacer (831). Specifically, the upper surface (836a) of the 2-1 protrusion (836) may be positioned in contact with the 1-1 surface (832) of the 1st spacer (831), and the lower surface (837a) of the 2-2 protrusion (837) of the 2nd spacer (835) may be positioned in contact with the 1-2 surface (833) of the 1st spacer (831).

[0134] That is, as the second spacer (835) is inserted and hooked onto the first spacer (831) as described above, the second spacer (835) can be positioned more stably on the first spacer (831).

[0135] The second spacer (835) may include a second surface (839), which is the uppermost surface of the second spacer (835). The second surface (839) may be a surface of the second spacer (835) that is in contact with the upper pack frame (1200).

[0136] The second surface (839) is depicted as a flat surface, but this is not the case and may be an inclined area, such as the surfaces connecting the second surface (839) and the second-2 protrusion (837).

[0137] The second spacer (835) may be formed of an elastic material. For example, the second spacer (835) may include rubber. Since the second spacer (835) is formed of an elastic material, the second spacer (835) may function as a buffer.

[0138] In addition, since the second spacer (835) is formed of an elastic body and is easily shaped, the second spacer (835) can be inserted into and combined with the insertion hole (834) of the first spacer (831).

[0139] Specifically, when an impact is applied to the battery module or battery pack of the present invention, the second spacer (835) can absorb a portion of the impact, thereby minimizing the impact transmission to other components. Furthermore, when vibration or the like is applied to the battery module or pack, the second spacer (835) can absorb a portion of the impact, thereby reducing noise and vibration. Accordingly, the structural stability of the battery can be enhanced.

[0140] The spacer (830) including the first spacer (831) and the second spacer (835) described above can be welded to the support (810). Specifically, the first spacer (831) can be welded to the support (810). More specifically, the first-first surface (832) of the first spacer (831) can be welded to the support (810). Accordingly, the spacer (830) can be more firmly and solidly fixed to the support (810), thereby maintaining the bonding relationship even under external impact, thereby securing a venting path between the battery module and the battery pack.

[0141] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the structural connection relationship between a battery module and a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 5, 9 and 15, a spacer assembly (700) according to one embodiment of the present invention can be positioned in contact with a battery module (100) and a battery pack (1000).

[0143] The spacer assembly (700, 800) of the present invention includes a support (710, 810) and a spacer (730, 830). In this case, the support (710, 810) can be positioned in contact with the battery module (100), and the spacer (730, 830) positioned on the support (710, 810) can be positioned in contact with the battery pack (1000).

[0144] Specifically, the support member (710, 810) can be positioned in contact with the upper cover (220) located on the upper portion of the battery module (100), and the spacer (730, 830) can be positioned in contact with the upper pack frame (1200) of the battery pack (1000).

[0145] In this case, a space as large as the height of the spacer (730h, 830h) may be provided between the battery module (100) and the battery pack (1000). That is, a space as large as the height of the spacer (730h, 830h) may be provided between the upper cover (220) and the upper pack frame (1200).

[0146] Here, in the case of the spacer assembly (800) according to another embodiment of the present invention, the spacer (830) positioned while in contact with the upper pack frame (1200) of the battery pack (1000) may be the second spacer (835) described in FIGS. 12 and 14. In addition, the height (830h) of the spacer may be the total height of the spacer (830) in which the first spacer (831) and the second spacer (835) of FIGS. 12 to 14 are combined. That is, the height (830h) of the spacer according to another embodiment of the present invention may mean the height from the 1-1 side (832) of the first spacer (831) to the second side (839) of the second spacer (835).

[0147] A space equal to the height (730h, 830h) of the spacer provided between the upper cover (220) and the upper pack frame (1200) may be a venting area (A2).

[0148] When a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs in the battery module (100), venting gas and particles can be discharged to the outside of the battery module (100) through the venting hole (221). In this case, the venting gas and particles can move inside the battery pack (1000) through the venting area (A2) and be discharged to the outside of the battery.

[0149] However, when a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs, the upper pack frame (1200) may be thermally deformed due to the increase in temperature inside the battery. Specifically, in a high-temperature state, the upper pack frame (1200) may be thermally deformed and locally change shape, such as by sagging toward the upper cover (220).

[0150] In such cases, since a typical battery pack (conventional battery pack) does not have a configuration such as a spacer assembly, the venting path may become blocked due to sagging of the upper pack frame. In other words, due to this change in the shape of the upper pack frame, the venting gas and particles generated in the battery module may not be discharged smoothly, which may increase the temperature inside the battery, resulting in an explosion or other problem.

[0151] In contrast, in the battery pack (1000) of the present invention, since the spacer assembly (700, 800) provided on the upper cover (220) supports the upper pack frame (1200), even if the upper pack frame (1200) is thermally deformed, the upper pack frame (1200) can be less sagging than in a conventional general battery pack. That is, since the spacer assembly (700, 800) supports the upper pack frame (1200) like a pillar, even if the upper cover (220) is locally thermally deformed and its shape changes, the venting area (A2) can be secured.

[0152] Accordingly, the battery pack (1000) of the present invention can prevent the venting path within the battery pack (1000) from becoming blocked even at high temperatures. That is, since the battery pack (1000) of the present invention can secure the venting area (A2) even at high temperatures, rapid heat dissipation is possible by moving venting gas and particles through the venting area (A2) when a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs. As a result, the temperature and pressure within the battery pack (1000) can be reduced to prevent explosion and suppress external exposure of flames, thereby improving the safety of the battery.

[0153] The battery module and battery pack containing the battery module described above can be applied to various devices. These devices include, but are not limited to, means of transportation such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and can be applied to various devices that can utilize the battery module and battery pack containing the battery module, which also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0154] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0155]

[0156] [Explanation of symbols]

[0157] 100: Battery module

[0158] 110: Battery cell

[0159] 120: Battery cell stack

[0160] 200: Module Frame

[0161] 210: Lower frame

[0162] 220: Top cover

[0163] 221: Venting Hall

[0164] 700: Spacer assembly

[0165] 710: Support

[0166] 711: First Support

[0167] 712: Second Support

[0168] 715: Joint

[0169] 730: Spacer

[0170] 1000: Battery Pack

[0171] 1100: Lower pack frame

[0172] 1200: Upper pack frame

[0173] A2: Venting area

Claims

1. A battery cell stack in which multiple battery cells are stacked; A module frame for storing the above battery cell stack; and It includes an end plate covering the front and back surfaces of the battery cell stack, The above module frame includes an upper cover positioned to cover the battery cell stack and including a plurality of holes, which are venting holes. A battery module having a spacer assembly positioned on the upper cover.

2. In paragraph 1, The above spacer assembly, A support located on the upper cover, and A battery module comprising a spacer positioned on the support member.

3. In paragraph 2, The above spacer has a certain height, A battery module in which the height of the spacer is greater than the height of the support.

4. In paragraph 2, The spacer assembly further comprises a first spacer and a second spacer coupled on the first spacer, The above first spacer, The first surface in contact with the above support, The first and second surfaces in contact with the second spacer, and A battery module including an insertion hole, which is a hole extending in a direction perpendicular to the first-1 surface and the first-2 surface, so that the second spacer is inserted and positioned.

5. In paragraph 4, A battery module in which the second spacer is inserted through the insertion hole of the first spacer and is positioned in a hooked manner on the first-1 surface and the first-2 surface.

6. In paragraph 5, The second spacer comprises a second-1 protrusion and a second-2 protrusion that protrude in a direction perpendicular to the height direction of the second spacer, and Including a concave portion provided between the above 2-1 protrusion and the above 2-2 protrusion, The above concave portion is a battery module in which an area is concavely formed toward the center of the second spacer based on the outer surface of the second-1 protrusion and the second-2 protrusion.

7. In paragraph 6, The above 2-1 protrusion is positioned in contact with the above 1-1 surface, A battery module in which the above-mentioned 2-2 protrusion is positioned in contact with the above-mentioned 1-2 surface.

8. In paragraph 6, A battery module in which the outer surface of the above concave portion is positioned in contact with the surfaces forming the insertion hole.

9. In paragraph 4, The above first spacer comprises steel, The second spacer is a battery module including an elastic body.

10. In paragraph 2, The above support part is a battery module located on the upper cover excluding the venting hole.

11. In paragraph 10, The above support part, A first support portion extending along the width direction of the upper cover, and A battery module including a second support portion formed by branching and extending from the first support portion and extending along the longitudinal direction of the upper cover in a direction perpendicular to the first support portion.

12. In paragraph 11, The above first support part is, A first-first support portion located at one end of the upper cover, and A battery module including first and second support members located at the other end of the upper cover.

13. In paragraph 12, The second support portion is a battery module extending from the first-first support portion toward the first-second support portion.

14. In paragraph 11, The above second support part, A battery module positioned so as to extend along the space between the venting holes located in the upper cover and the space between the venting holes and the side portion of the upper cover.

15. In paragraph 11, The above support part, A battery module further comprising a joining portion, which is an area that protrudes vertically in the opposite direction from the second support portion from the first support portion.

16. In paragraph 15, The above-mentioned joint includes a joint hole penetrating the joint in the height direction, A defect groove is provided in an area of ​​the end plate corresponding to the above-mentioned joining hole, A battery module in which a fastening member is connected to the connecting groove while passing through the connecting hole.

17. At least one battery module according to paragraph 1; a lower pack frame for accommodating at least one battery module; and A battery pack comprising an upper pack frame positioned in conjunction with the lower pack frame while covering at least one battery module.

18. In paragraph 17, The spacer assembly includes a support portion positioned on the upper cover, and a spacer positioned on the support portion and having a constant height, One side of the above spacer is positioned in contact with the above support, A battery pack positioned such that the surface of the above spacer is in contact with the upper pack frame.

19. In Article 18 The above spacer, A first spacer positioned in contact with the above support, and A battery pack comprising a second spacer assembled and coupled to the first spacer and positioned in contact with the upper pack frame.

20. In paragraph 18, A battery pack having a venting area between the upper cover and the upper pack frame, the area being as large as the height of the spacer.

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