Battery pack comprising flange, partition, and heatsink fin

Abstract

Provided is the structure of a battery pack comprising: a battery module from which a flange having a first fastening surface protrudes; a partition which has a second fastening surface facing the first fastening surface and is fastened to the flange; and a heatsink fin arranged between the first fastening surface and the second fastening surface and having multiple ridges and valleys that protrude and are recessed in the fastening direction. The heatsink fin may be arranged on the first fastening surface or the second fastening surface, or may be arranged on a heatsink plate arranged between the first fastening surface and the second fastening surface.

Description

Battery pack having flanges, bulkheads, and heat sink fins

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from Republic of Korea Patent Application No. 10-2023-0116156, dated September 1, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention provides a structure of a battery pack in which a plurality of battery modules are built in isolation from each other by a bulkhead, wherein heat transmission between modules through the bulkhead is prevented.

[0003] Secondary batteries, which boast high electrical properties such as high energy density and easy applicability across a wide range of product groups, are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric or hybrid vehicles powered by electrical power sources, as well as in power storage devices. These batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for environmental friendliness and energy efficiency, not only because they can dramatically reduce fossil fuel use, but also because they produce no byproducts from energy use.

[0004] While small mobile devices typically use one or two or three battery cells per device, medium- to large-sized devices, such as automobiles, require high output and large capacity. Therefore, medium- to large-sized battery modules, which electrically connect multiple battery cells, are used. Furthermore, these battery modules can be integrated into battery packs to achieve even higher output and capacity.

[0005] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the structure of a battery module having a flange, and Figure 3 illustrates the structure of a battery pack. Referring to these drawings, a battery module (M) having a flange (2) has a structure in which a cell stack (100) in which a plurality of pouch-type battery cells are stacked is accommodated in a housing having the flange (2). The flange (2) may include a first flange (112) and a second flange (122) extending in the width direction from a U-frame (110) and a top plate (120) constituting the housing, respectively.

[0006] The above battery pack (P) is configured by having a plurality of battery modules (M) built into a pack frame (3) having a partition wall (30). The partition wall (30) isolates the spaces in which the battery modules (M) are placed, and the flange (2) is fastened so that the battery modules (M) can be fixed to the pack frame (3) without movement.

[0007] Meanwhile, the cell stack (100) may ignite due to a short circuit, etc. At this time, high-temperature gas and flames generated from the cell stack (100) may increase the temperature of the housing, and the resulting thermal energy may be transmitted to the pack frame (3) and the flanges of other battery modules through the flange (2) and the partition wall (30) connected thereto. In this case, there is a risk that heat may spread between the battery modules, causing a chain reaction of fires, resulting in thermal runaway of the pack unit.

[0008] Therefore, a structure is required that can firmly fix the battery module to the pack frame by fastening the flange to the bulkhead, while preventing heat transfer between the modules through this.

[0009] The present invention was created under the background of the above-described prior art, and its purpose is to provide a structure of a battery pack in which movement of battery modules within a pack frame is prevented, the spaces between the modules can be isolated, and heat transmission between modules due to conduction is prevented.

[0010] The present invention also aims to provide a structure of a battery pack in which heat generated from a battery module can be easily dissipated into the air.

[0011] Another technical challenge of the present invention is to provide a structure and arrangement of a heat dissipation fin that can exhibit appropriate heat dissipation performance while minimizing deformation due to a fastening load between a flange and a bulkhead.

[0012] The technical objectives of the present invention are not limited to the purposes mentioned above. Other objectives and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objectives and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0013] In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides a structure of a battery pack including: a battery module having a flange protruding from a first fastening surface; a partition wall having a second fastening surface facing the first fastening surface and fastened to the flange; and a heat dissipation fin provided between the first fastening surface and the second fastening surface and having a plurality of ridges and valleys protruding and recessed in the fastening direction.

[0014] The battery modules may be accommodated in a plurality of pack frames to form the battery pack. At this time, the pack frame may have the partition wall, and the battery modules may be fixed to the pack frame without movement by having the flange fastened to the partition wall.

[0015] The above flange may be formed by connecting or joining a plurality of pieces. For example, the flange may include a first flange and a second flange joined to the first flange, and the first fastening surface may be provided on the bottom surface of the first flange. However, the shape and structure of the flange are not limited thereto, and the flange may be configured in any way as long as it protrudes from the battery module and has the first fastening surface fastened to the bulkhead.

[0016] The above-mentioned bulkhead can isolate a plurality of spaces in which the battery modules are mounted. However, the formation location and structure of the bulkhead are not limited thereto, and it is sufficient for the bulkhead to have a second fastening surface to which the flange is fastened.

[0017] The above flange and the bulkhead can be fastened to each other such that the first fastening surface provided on the flange and the second fastening surface provided on the bulkhead face each other. Hereinafter, the direction in which the first fastening surface and the second fastening surface face each other is referred to as the fastening direction.

[0018] The heat dissipation fin may be provided between the first fastening surface and the second fastening surface. The heat dissipation fin may be provided separately from the flange and / or the bulkhead, or may be provided connected to the flange and / or the bulkhead.

[0019] The above-mentioned heat dissipation fin may include a material with high thermal conductivity, such as metal. It is preferable that the heat dissipation fin include a metal material. If the heat dissipation fin is formed by extending from a member, it is preferable that the member also include a material with high thermal conductivity, such as metal.

[0020] The above-mentioned heat dissipation fin may include a plurality of peaks protruding in one or the other direction of fastening and a plurality of valleys protruding in one or the other direction of fastening. The peaks may correspond to the front end of the heat dissipation fin, and the valleys may correspond to the base end of the heat dissipation fin. Accordingly, the heat dissipation fin may have a shape extending in the fastening direction from the valley to the peaks. The heat dissipation fin may contact the first fastening surface and / or the second fastening surface at the peak portion.

[0021] Below, the specific structure of the heat dissipation fin is described in detail.

[0022] [Example 1]

[0023] The above heat dissipation fin may be provided on the first fastening surface. The fact that the heat dissipation fin is provided on the first fastening surface may mean that the heat dissipation fin is connected to the first fastening surface or extends from the first fastening surface to form a part of the flange.

[0024] The above heat dissipation fin may be formed by machining the first fastening surface. For example, the heat dissipation fin may be formed by machining the first fastening surface so that a cut portion forms the groove, and the remaining portion forms the ridge.

[0025] Alternatively, the heat dissipation fin may be formed by plastic deformation of the flange. For example, the heat dissipation fin may be formed by plastic deformation of the flange formed of a metal plate by pressing so that one or both sides thereof have a protrusion, the protrusion forming the groove, and the iron portion forming the ridge.

[0026] As the heat dissipation fins are formed on the flange, the flange may include a material having high thermal conductivity. For example, the flange may include a metal material.

[0027] [Example 2]

[0028] The above heat dissipation fin may be provided on the second fastening surface. The fact that the heat dissipation fin is provided on the second fastening surface may mean that the heat dissipation fin is connected to the second fastening surface or extends from the second fastening surface to form a part of the bulkhead.

[0029] The above heat dissipation fin may be formed by machining the second fastening surface. For example, the heat dissipation fin may be formed by machining the second fastening surface so that a cut portion forms the groove, and the remaining portion forms the ridge.

[0030] As the heat dissipation fins are formed on the bulkhead, the bulkhead may include a material having high thermal conductivity. For example, the bulkhead may include a metal material.

[0031] [Example 3]

[0032] The above battery pack may include a heat dissipation plate, and wherein the heat dissipation fins may be provided on the heat dissipation plate. The fact that the heat dissipation fins are provided on the heat dissipation plate may mean that the heat dissipation fins are connected to the heat dissipation plate or extend from the heat dissipation plate to form a part of the heat dissipation plate.

[0033] The above heat dissipation fins may be formed by machining the heat dissipation plate. For example, the heat dissipation fins may be formed by machining one or both sides of the heat dissipation plate so that the cut portion forms the grooves and the remaining portion forms the ridges.

[0034] Alternatively, the heat dissipation fin may be formed by plastically deforming the heat dissipation plate. For example, the heat dissipation fin may be formed by plastically deforming the heat dissipation plate formed of a metal plate by pressing so that one or both sides thereof have unevenness, the grooves forming the grooves, and the iron portions forming the ridges.

[0035] As the heat dissipation fins are formed on the heat dissipation plate, the heat dissipation plate may include a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat dissipation plate may include a metal material.

[0036] The above heat dissipation plate may constitute a part of the bulkhead. In this case, the second fastening surface may be provided on the heat dissipation plate. For example, the bulkhead may include: a heat dissipation plate including the second fastening surface; and a bulkhead portion connected to the heat dissipation plate and isolating the battery module from another battery module adjacent thereto.

[0037] Alternatively, the heat dissipation plate may be provided as a separate member interposed between the first fastening surface and the second fastening surface.

[0038] The above heat dissipation fin may include a first heat dissipation fin provided between the heat dissipation plate and the first fastening surface, and having a first ridge and a first groove formed therein.

[0039] The above heat dissipation fin may include a second heat dissipation fin provided between the heat dissipation plate and the second fastening surface, and having a second ridge and a second groove formed therein.

[0040] The above heat dissipation fin may include the first heat dissipation fin and the second heat dissipation fin, and may be formed such that the positions of the first peak and the second peak correspond to each other along the longitudinal direction, and the positions of the first valley and the second valley correspond to each other.

[0041] The above heat dissipation fin may include the first heat dissipation fin and the second heat dissipation fin, and may be formed such that the positions of the first peak and the second valley correspond to each other along the longitudinal direction, and the positions of the first valley and the second valley correspond to each other.

[0042] [Arrangement of heat dissipation fins]

[0043] The above flange and the above bulkhead may be fastened to each other at a plurality of fastening portions arranged along the longitudinal direction. At this time, the ridges and valleys may be alternately and repeatedly arranged along the longitudinal direction.

[0044] The above heat dissipation fin must have sufficient rigidity to prevent deformation due to the fastening force between the flange and the bulkhead, and at the same time, must have a sufficient area exposed to air for heat dissipation.

[0045] The above heat dissipation fin may include, along its length direction, a first section including the fastening portion and a second section not including the fastening portion. In this case, the fastening direction stiffness of the heat dissipation fin may be greater in the first section than in the second section.

[0046] The number of floors per unit length may be greater in the first section than in the second section.

[0047] Each of the above floors may have a predetermined width along the longitudinal direction. In this case, the average or total width of the floors may be greater in the first section than in the second section.

[0048] Each of the above-mentioned grooves may have a predetermined width along the longitudinal direction. In this case, the average or total width of the grooves may be smaller in the first section than in the second section.

[0049] The present invention also provides a structure for a vehicle incorporating the battery pack. The battery pack may be incorporated into the vehicle as a power source. The vehicle may be an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle.

[0050] The present invention can provide a structure of a battery pack in which a battery module is provided with a flange and the flange is fastened to a bulkhead provided in a pack frame, thereby stably isolating and mounting the battery module without movement, while minimizing conduction of heat generated from the battery module through the flange and bulkhead.

[0051] The present invention also provides a structure of a battery pack in which heat generated from a battery module is easily dissipated into the air by means of heat dissipation fins having excellent thermal conductivity and in contact with the air over a large area, thereby preventing heat from being transferred to other battery modules.

[0052] Another advantage of the present invention is that it is possible to provide a battery pack structure that can exhibit sufficient heat generation performance while minimizing deformation by arranging heat dissipation fins so that the stiffness in the fastening direction is high in a section including a fastening portion and the contact area with air is high in a section not including a fastening portion.

[0053] In addition, the present invention may have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment, or the description of effects that can be easily inferred by a person skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0054] Figures 1 and 2 show the structure of a battery module having a flange.

[0055] Figure 3 shows the structure of a battery pack.

[0056] Figure 4 shows the flange being attached to the bulkhead.

[0057] Figure 5 shows the structure of a battery module according to Example 1 of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 6 shows a cross-section of a flange and a bulkhead according to Example 1 of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 7 shows the structure of a heat dissipation fin according to Example 1 of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 8 shows the structure of a bulkhead according to Example 2 of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 9 shows a cross-section of a flange and a bulkhead according to Example 2 of the present invention.

[0062] Figures 10 and 11 show the combined structure of a battery module, a heat dissipation plate, and a bulkhead according to Example 3 of the present invention.

[0063] Figures 12 and 13 show the structure of a heat dissipation plate according to Example 3 of the present invention and a modified example thereof.

[0064] Fig. 14 shows a cross-section of a flange, a heat dissipation plate, and a bulkhead according to Example 3 of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 15 shows a modified example of Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0066] Figures 16 to 18 illustrate the arrangement of heat dissipation fins according to the present invention.

[0067] Figure 19 shows the structure of a vehicle having a built-in battery pack.

[0068] [Explanation of symbols]

[0069] 100: Cell stack

[0070] 110: U-frame

[0071] 112: First flange

[0072] 120: Top plate

[0073] 122: Second flange

[0074] 130: End plate

[0075] 2: Flange

[0076] 24: First connection surface

[0077] 3: Pack Frame

[0078] 30: Bulkhead

[0079] 300: Bulkhead

[0080] 34: Second connection surface

[0081] 4: Fastening part

[0082] 40: Absence of fasteners

[0083] 5: Heat dissipation plate

[0084] 50: Heat sink fins

[0085] 511: (First) Floor

[0086] 512: (1st) goal

[0087] 521: Second Floor

[0088] 522: Second goal

[0089] A: Section 1

[0090] B: Section 2

[0091] LA1: Section 1 floor width

[0092] LA2: First section goal width

[0093] LB1: Section 2 floor width

[0094] LB2: Second section goal width

[0095] M: Battery module

[0096] P: Battery pack

[0097] V: Car

[0098] X: longitudinal / front-backward direction

[0099] Y: width direction / left / right direction

[0100] Z: Height direction / up / down direction / fastening direction

[0101] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the technical idea of ​​the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of known technologies related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar components.

[0102] Although the terms "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0103] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0104] Hereinafter, the phrase "any configuration is placed on (or below)" a component or "on (or below)" a component may mean that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, and that other configurations may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0105] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0106] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "consisting of" or "comprising" should not necessarily be construed to include all of the components or steps described in the specification, and should be construed to mean that some of the components or steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0107] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C to D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0108] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0109] [Battery module and battery pack structure]

[0110] First, referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the structure of a battery module having a flange and a battery pack including the same will be described in detail.

[0111] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the structure of a battery module having a flange. Referring to these drawings, the battery module (M) may have a flange (2).

[0112] The above battery module (M) may include a cell stack (100) and a housing that accommodates the cell stack. The housing may include a U-frame (110) that is open at the top and front and rear, a top plate (120) that covers the top of the U-frame (110), and an end plate (130) that covers the front and rear of the U-frame (110).

[0113] The above flange (2) may protrude outwardly from the battery module (M). The flange (2) may extend from the housing of the battery module (M) or may be connected to the battery module (M) as a separate object.

[0114] The above flange (2) may be provided in multiple numbers. For example, the flange (2) may include a first flange (112) protruding from the U-frame (110) in both width directions, and a second flange (122) protruding from the top plate (120) in both width directions. The first flange (112) and the second flange (122) may be joined to each other to form one flange (2).

[0115] Figure 3 shows the structure of a battery pack. Referring to this, a plurality of battery modules (M) can be accommodated in a pack frame (3) to form a battery pack (P).

[0116] The above pack frame (3) may be provided with one or more partition walls (30) that isolate the space between the battery modules (M) from each other. The battery modules (M) may be placed one by one or in groups in the space within the pack frame (3) isolated by the partition walls (30).

[0117] At this time, the flange (2) can be fastened to the bulkhead (30). The flange (2) and the bulkhead (30) can be fastened to each other directly, or can be fastened to each other indirectly through another member such as an insulating material, or another member connected to both the flange (2) and the bulkhead (30).

[0118] Fig. 4 shows a flange being fastened to a bulkhead. Referring to this, the flange (2) may have a first fastening surface (24) provided on its lower surface, and the bulkhead (30) may have a second fastening surface (34) provided on its upper surface. The flange (2) and the bulkhead (30) may be fastened in a fastening direction at the fastening portion (4) so ​​that the first fastening surface (24) and the second fastening surface (34) face each other. In this specification, for the convenience of explanation, the fastening direction is viewed as the height direction, but the fastening direction may follow any direction as long as it is the direction that the first fastening surface (24) and the second fastening surface (34) face.

[0119] At this time, the above-mentioned fastening may be accomplished by a fastening member (40) passing through a fastening hole provided in the flange (2) and the bulkhead (30) at a portion corresponding to the fastening portion (4).

[0120] Meanwhile, the battery module (M) may catch fire due to a short circuit of the battery cell, etc. At this time, heat generated from the battery module (M) may be transferred from the flange (2) to the partition wall (30) through the fastening portion (4), and from the partition wall (30) to the flange of another battery module and / or the pack frame (3). As the heat energy generated in the battery module (M) is transferred to another battery module, there is a risk of a chain reaction of fires between modules if one battery module experiences thermal runaway.

[0121] Accordingly, the present invention provides a structure of a battery pack in which a heat dissipation fin is provided between the first fastening surface (24) and the second fastening surface (34) so ​​that heat generated from the battery module (M) can be dissipated without being transferred to the partition wall (30).

[0122] [Example 1]

[0123] Hereinafter, the structure of a battery pack according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7. In this embodiment, the heat dissipation fin may be provided on the flange.

[0124] Fig. 5 shows the structure of a battery module according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Referring to this, the heat dissipation fin (50) may be provided on the first fastening surface (24). Here, the fact that the heat dissipation fin (50) is provided on the first fastening surface (24) may mean that the heat dissipation fin (50) extends from the first fastening surface (24) or is connected to the first fastening surface (24) to form the flange (2).

[0125] For example, the heat dissipation fin (50) can be formed by mechanically processing or plastically deforming the first fastening surface (24).

[0126] It is preferable that the above-mentioned heat dissipation fin (50) include a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the above-mentioned heat dissipation fin (50) may include a metal material. When the above-mentioned heat dissipation fin (50) is formed to extend from the flange (2), the flange (2) may include a material with high thermal conductivity, such as metal.

[0127] Fig. 6 shows a cross-section of a flange and a bulkhead according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and Fig. 7 shows the structure of a heat dissipation fin according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Referring to these drawings, the heat dissipation fin (50) may have a plurality of ridges (511) and valleys (512) that protrude and sink from the first fastening surface (24) toward the second fastening surface (34). The ridges (511) correspond to the tip of the heat dissipation fin (50) and may come into contact with the second fastening surface (34).

[0128] The heat dissipation fin (50) according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention can be formed by mechanical processing so that the first flange (112) has a plurality of ridges (511) and valleys (512) that protrude and sink from the first fastening surface (24) toward the second fastening surface (34).

[0129] According to this embodiment, the heat transfer path between the flange (2) and the bulkhead (30) can be narrowed by the shape of the heat dissipation fin (50) as described above.

[0130] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the fastening direction extension of the heat dissipation fin (50) connecting the floor (511) and the groove (512) has its surface exposed to the air, so that heat absorbed from the flange (2) and the partition wall (30) can be released into the air.

[0131] [Example 2]

[0132] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the structure of a battery pack according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described in detail. In this embodiment, the heat dissipation fins may be provided in the bulkhead.

[0133] Fig. 8 shows the structure of a bulkhead according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Referring to this, the heat dissipation fin (50) may be provided on the second fastening surface (34). Here, the fact that the heat dissipation fin (50) is provided on the second fastening surface (34) may mean that the heat dissipation fin (50) extends from the second fastening surface (34) or is connected to the second fastening surface (34) to form a part of the bulkhead (30).

[0134] For example, the heat dissipation fin (50) can be formed by mechanically processing or plastically deforming the second fastening surface (34).

[0135] It is preferable that the above-mentioned heat dissipation fin (50) include a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the above-mentioned heat dissipation fin (50) may include a metal material. When the above-mentioned heat dissipation fin (50) is formed to extend from the partition wall (30), the partition wall (30) may include a material with high thermal conductivity, such as metal.

[0136] Fig. 9 shows a cross-section of a flange and a bulkhead according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Referring to this, the heat dissipation fin (50) may have a plurality of ridges (511) and valleys (512) that protrude and sink from the second fastening surface (34) toward the first fastening surface (24). The ridges (511) correspond to the tip of the heat dissipation fin (50) and may come into contact with the first fastening surface (24).

[0137] The heat dissipation fin (50) according to the second embodiment of the present invention can be formed by mechanical processing so that the partition wall (30) has a plurality of ridges (511) and valleys (512) that protrude and sink from the second fastening surface (34) toward the first fastening surface (24).

[0138] According to this embodiment, the heat transfer path between the flange (2) and the bulkhead (30) can be narrowed by the shape of the heat dissipation fin (50) as described above.

[0139] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the fastening direction extension of the heat dissipation fin (50) connecting the floor (511) and the groove (512) has its surface exposed to the air, so that heat absorbed from the flange (2) and the partition wall (30) can be released into the air.

[0140] [Example 3]

[0141] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 10 to 15, the structure of a battery pack according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention and its modifications will be described in detail. In the present embodiment and its modifications, the heat dissipation fins may be provided on a heat dissipation plate.

[0142] Figures 10 and 11 illustrate the combined structure of a battery module, a heat dissipation plate, and a bulkhead according to Example 3 of the present invention. Referring to these drawings, the heat dissipation fin (50) may be provided on the heat dissipation plate (5) interposed between the first fastening surface (24) and the second fastening surface (34).

[0143] At this time, the heat dissipation plate (5) may be formed separately from the flange (2) and the partition wall (30), may be connected to the flange (2) and / or the partition wall (30), or may constitute a part of the flange (2) and / or the partition wall (30).

[0144] The above heat dissipation fin (50) may include a first heat dissipation fin provided between the heat dissipation plate (5) and the first fastening surface (24). Here, the fact that the heat dissipation fin (50) is provided between the heat dissipation plate (5) and the first fastening surface (24) may mean that the heat dissipation fin (50) extends from the side of the first fastening surface (24) of the heat dissipation plate (5) or is connected to the side of the first fastening surface (24) of the heat dissipation plate (5) to form a part of the heat dissipation plate (5).

[0145] The above heat dissipation fin (50) may include a second heat dissipation fin provided between the heat dissipation plate (5) and the second fastening surface (34). Here, the fact that the heat dissipation fin (50) is provided between the heat dissipation plate (5) and the second fastening surface (34) may mean that the heat dissipation fin (50) extends from the side of the second fastening surface (34) of the heat dissipation plate (5) or is connected to the side of the second fastening surface (34) of the heat dissipation plate (5) to form a part of the heat dissipation plate (5).

[0146] The above heat dissipation fin (50) can be formed by mechanically processing or plastically deforming the first fastening surface (24) side and / or the second fastening surface (34) side of the heat dissipation plate (5).

[0147] It is preferable that the heat dissipation fin (50) comprises a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat dissipation fin (50) may comprise a metal material. When the heat dissipation fin (50) is formed to extend from the heat dissipation plate (5), the heat dissipation plate (5) may comprise a material with high thermal conductivity, such as metal.

[0148] According to the present embodiment, the heat dissipation fin (50) may include the first heat dissipation fin extending from the heat dissipation plate (5) made of a metal material toward the first fastening surface (24), and the second heat dissipation fin extending toward the second fastening surface (34).

[0149] Figures 12 and 13 illustrate the structure of a heat dissipation plate according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention and a modified example thereof, and Figure 14 illustrates a cross-section of a flange, a heat dissipation plate, and a partition wall according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Referring to these drawings, the first heat dissipation fin may have a plurality of first peaks (511) and first valleys (512) that protrude and recess from the heat dissipation plate (5) toward the first fastening surface (24). The first peak (511) corresponds to a tip portion of the first heat dissipation fin and may contact the first fastening surface (24). In addition, the second heat dissipation fin may have a plurality of second peaks (521) and second valleys (522) that protrude and recess from the heat dissipation plate (5) toward the second fastening surface (34). The above second floor (521) corresponds to the tip of the second heat dissipation fin and can be in contact with the second fastening surface (34).

[0150] In Example 3 of the present invention, the heat dissipation fin (50) may be arranged such that the positions of the first ridge (511) and the second valley (522) correspond to each other along the longitudinal direction, and the positions of the first valley (512) and the second valley (521) correspond to each other. In this case, the heat transfer path from the flange (2) to the partition wall (30) is lengthened, which is advantageous for heat dissipation.

[0151] According to a modified example, the heat dissipation fin (50) may be arranged such that the positions of the first peak (511) and the second peak (521) correspond to each other along the longitudinal direction, and the positions of the first valley (512) and the second valley (522) correspond to each other. In this case, there may be an advantage in that the rigidity of the heat dissipation fin (50) in the fastening direction is stronger compared to a case in which the first heat dissipation fin and the second heat dissipation fin are arranged in an interleaved manner.

[0152] Fig. 15 shows a modified example of Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Referring to this, in a modified example of Embodiment 3 of the present invention, the heat dissipation plate (5) may constitute a part of the partition wall (30). At this time, the partition wall (30) may include a partition wall portion (300) that isolates the battery module (M) from other battery modules and the heat dissipation plate (5) connected thereto. At this time, the side of the first fastening surface (24) of the heat dissipation plate (5) may correspond to the second fastening surface (34).

[0153] According to this modified example, the partition wall portion (300) has a shell shape with an open top, and the heat dissipation plate (5) covers the top of the partition wall portion (300) and can form the upper plate of the partition wall (30). In this case, since the bottom surface of the heat dissipation plate (5) is exposed to the air, it can be more advantageous in dissipating heat transferred from the flange (2) and the partition wall (30).

[0154] [Placement of heat dissipation fins]

[0155] Figures 16 to 18 illustrate the arrangement of heat dissipation fins according to the present invention.

[0156] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 16 to 18, the arrangement of heat dissipation fins according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the case where the heat dissipation fins have the structure of the above-described embodiment 1 will be exemplified; however, the arrangement of the heat dissipation fins according to this embodiment can be applied not only to the above-described embodiments 1 to 3, but also to all structures according to the present invention.

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 18, the flange (2) and the bulkhead (30) can be fastened to each other at a plurality of fastening portions (4) arranged along the longitudinal direction. At this time, the heat dissipation fins (50) can be arranged so that the ridges (511) and valleys (512) are alternately and repeatedly arranged along the longitudinal direction.

[0158] In arranging the above-mentioned heat dissipation fin (50), the heat dissipation fin (50) needs to have high rigidity in the fastening portion (4) so ​​as not to be deformed by the fastening force between the flange (2) and the bulkhead (30). However, if the cross-sectional area of ​​the heat dissipation fin (50) is increased or the arrangement interval is reduced in order to increase the fastening direction rigidity of the heat dissipation fin (50), the heat dissipation performance of the heat dissipation fin (50) may be reduced. Accordingly, the present invention provides an arrangement of the heat dissipation fin (50) that can exhibit appropriate heat dissipation performance without the heat dissipation fin (50) being deformed.

[0159] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the heat dissipation fin (50) may include, along its length direction, a first section (A) including the fastening portion (4) and a second section (B) not including the fastening portion (4). In this case, the fastening direction rigidity of the heat dissipation fin (50) may be greater in the first section (A) than in the second section (B).

[0160] Referring to Fig. 16, the number of the floors (511) per unit length may be greater in the first section (A) than in the second section (B). Accordingly, in the fastening portion (4) and its surroundings, the heat dissipation fins (50) receive the fastening load between the first fastening surface (24) and the second fastening surface (34) at more points, thereby securing the fastening direction rigidity, and in a portion far from the fastening portion (4), the distance between the heat dissipation fins (50) is relatively large, thereby securing the heat dissipation performance.

[0161] Referring to Fig. 17, each of the floors (511) may have a predetermined floor width (LA1, LA2) along the longitudinal direction. At this time, the floors (511) included in the first section (A) may have a predetermined first section floor width (LA1), the floors (511) included in the second section (B) may have a predetermined second section floor width (LA2), and the average or total of the first section floor widths (LA1) may be larger than the second section floor widths (LA2). Accordingly, in the fastening portion (4) and its surroundings, the fastening direction cross-sectional area of ​​each of the heat dissipation fins (50) may be larger, so that fastening direction rigidity may be secured, and in a portion far from the fastening portion (4), the width of the heat dissipation fins (50) may be relatively thin, so that heat dissipation performance may be secured.

[0162] Referring to Fig. 18, each of the valleys (512) may have a predetermined valley width (LB1, LB2) along the longitudinal direction. At this time, the valleys (512) included in the first section (A) may have a predetermined first section valley width (LB1), the valleys (512) included in the second section (B) may have a predetermined second section valley width (LB2), and the first section valley width (LB1) may have an average or total smaller than the second section valley width (LB2). Accordingly, in the fastening portion (4) and its surroundings, the heat dissipation fins (50) can receive the fastening load between the first fastening surface (24) and the second fastening surface (34) with a larger cross-sectional area, thereby securing the fastening direction rigidity, and in a portion far from the fastening portion (4), the area through which the heat dissipation fins (50) can radiate heat is relatively large, thereby securing the heat dissipation performance.

[0163] [Vehicles containing battery packs]

[0164] Figure 19 illustrates the structure of a vehicle having a built-in battery pack. Referring to this, the battery pack (P) may be built into a vehicle (V) as a power source. The vehicle (V) may be an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle.

[0165] It should be understood that the above-described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive, and the scope of the present invention will be determined by the claims that follow, rather than by the detailed description set forth above. Furthermore, the meaning and scope of the claims that follow, as well as all possible modifications and variations derived from their equivalent concepts, should be construed as encompassing the scope of the present invention.

[0166] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings exemplified above, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. Furthermore, even if the operational effects according to the configuration of the present invention have not been explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects predictable by the corresponding configuration should also be acknowledged.

Claims

1. A battery module having a protruding flange having a first connecting surface; A bulkhead having a second fastening surface facing the first fastening surface and fastened to the flange; and A battery pack comprising a heat dissipation fin provided between the first fastening surface and the second fastening surface and having a plurality of ridges and valleys protruding and recessed in the fastening direction.

2. In claim 1, A battery pack in which the above heat dissipation fin is provided on the first fastening surface.

3. In claim 2, A battery pack in which the above heat dissipation fin is formed by machining the first fastening surface.

4. In claim 2, The above heat dissipation fin is a battery pack formed by plastic deformation of the flange.

5. In claim 2, A battery pack, wherein the above flange comprises a metal material.

6. In claim 1, A battery pack in which the above heat dissipation fin is provided on a heat dissipation plate interposed between the first fastening surface and the second fastening surface.

7. In claim 6, The above heat dissipation fin is formed by machining the above heat dissipation plate, the battery pack.

8. In claim 6, A battery pack in which the above heat dissipation fins are formed by plastic deformation of the above heat dissipation plate.

9. In claim 6, A battery pack, wherein the heat dissipation plate comprises a metal material.

10. In claim 6, A battery pack wherein the above heat dissipation fin is provided between the above heat dissipation plate and the first fastening surface.

11. In claim 6, A battery pack wherein the above heat dissipation fin is provided between the above heat dissipation plate and the second fastening surface.

12. In claim 6, The above heat dissipation fins: A first heat dissipation fin is provided between the heat dissipation plate and the first fastening surface; and A second heat dissipation fin provided between the heat dissipation plate and the second fastening surface; The above floors and valleys are: A first floor and a first groove included in the first heat dissipation fin; and A battery pack comprising a second floor and a second valley included in the second heat dissipation fin.

13. In claim 12, Along the length direction, The positions of the first floor and the second floor correspond to each other, A battery pack in which the positions of the first and second goals correspond to each other.

14. In claim 12, Along the length direction, The positions of the first floor and the second floor correspond to each other, A battery pack in which the positions of the first goal and the second goal correspond to each other.

15. In claim 1, The above flange and the above bulkhead are fastened to each other at a plurality of fastening portions arranged along the longitudinal direction, A battery pack in which the above floors and grooves are alternately arranged in a longitudinal direction.

16. In claim 15, The above heat dissipation fin includes, along its length direction, a first section including the fastening portion and a second section not including the fastening portion, A battery pack in which the fastening direction stiffness of the above heat dissipation fin is greater in the first section than in the second section.

17. In claim 16, A battery pack wherein the number of floors per unit length is greater in the first section than in the second section.

18. In claim 16, Each of the above floors has a predetermined width along the length direction, The average width of the above floor is greater in the first section than in the second section, the battery pack.

19. In claim 16, Each of the above goals has a predetermined width along the length direction, A battery pack wherein the average width of the above-mentioned goal is smaller in the first section than in the second section.

20. In claim 16, Each of the above floors has a predetermined width along the length direction, A battery pack in which the sum total of the widths of the above floors is greater in the first section than in the second section.

21. In claim 16, Each of the above goals has a predetermined width along the length direction, A battery pack wherein the sum total of the widths of the above-mentioned bones is smaller in the first section than in the second section.

22. A battery module having a protruding flange having a first connecting surface; A bulkhead having a second fastening surface facing the first fastening surface and fastened to the flange; and A battery pack comprising a heat dissipation fin provided on the second fastening surface and having a plurality of ridges and valleys protruding and recessed in the fastening direction.

23. In claim 22, A battery pack in which the above heat dissipation fin is formed by machining the second fastening surface.

24. In claim 22, The above heat dissipation fin is a battery pack formed by plastic deformation of the above bulkhead.

25. In claim 22, The above bulkhead is a battery pack comprising a metal material.

26. In claim 22, The above bulkheads are: A heat dissipation plate including the second fastening surface; and A battery pack comprising a bulkhead connected to the heat dissipation plate and isolating the battery module from the adjacent battery module.

27. In claim 22, The above flange and the above bulkhead are fastened to each other at a plurality of fastening portions arranged along the longitudinal direction, A battery pack in which the above floors and grooves are alternately arranged in a longitudinal direction.

28. In claim 27, The above heat dissipation fin includes, along its length direction, a first section including the fastening portion and a second section not including the fastening portion, A battery pack in which the fastening direction stiffness of the above heat dissipation fin is greater in the first section than in the second section.

29. In claim 28, A battery pack wherein the number of floors per unit length is greater in the first section than in the second section.

30. In claim 28, Each of the above floors has a predetermined width along the length direction, The average width of the above floor is greater in the first section than in the second section, the battery pack.

31. In claim 28, Each of the above goals has a predetermined width along the length direction, A battery pack wherein the average width of the above-mentioned goal is smaller in the first section than in the second section.

32. In claim 28, Each of the above floors has a predetermined width along the length direction, A battery pack in which the sum total of the widths of the above floors is greater in the first section than in the second section.

33. In claim 28, Each of the above goals has a predetermined width along the length direction, A battery pack wherein the sum total of the widths of the above-mentioned bones is smaller in the first section than in the second section.

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