Battery pack and vehicle comprising same battery pack

Abstract

A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of battery cells; a pack case which is configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells therein and has a venting part configured to discharge gases generated in the battery cells to the outside; and a blocking composite member which is configured to cover at least a portion of the venting part and prevent flames generated within the pack case from being exposed to the outside.

Description

Battery pack and vehicle including same

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

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0125639, filed on September 20, 2023, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Secondary batteries, which offer high applicability across a wide range of product categories and possess electrical properties such as high energy density, are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). 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] Depending on the charge / discharge capacity required by an electric vehicle (EV) or hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel to form a battery pack. Typically, a battery module containing at least one battery cell is first constructed, and then other components are added to form a battery pack or battery rack using this at least one battery module. Recently, battery packs in the cell-to-pack form, where multiple battery cells are housed directly in a pack housing, are also being manufactured.

[0005] However, in battery packs containing such a large number of lithium secondary batteries, the damage from fire and explosion is bound to be even greater. Fires within battery packs originate from abnormal temperature rises and internal gas generation within the battery cells. Consequently, if the internal pressure of the battery cells rises above a certain level, venting can occur, potentially leading to a fire within the battery pack.

[0006] Therefore, to ensure the safety of battery pack operation, venting gas must be quickly vented to the outside of the battery pack to prevent further increases in internal pressure when a thermal event, such as thermal runaway, occurs within the battery pack. If this venting gas is not properly vented to the outside, the rate at which thermal runaway propagates between battery cells can increase. Furthermore, venting this gas to the outside is crucial, as it can lead to more serious problems, such as battery pack explosion.

[0007] Accordingly, in the case of conventional battery packs, a venting portion is provided in the pack case to discharge high-temperature venting gas, etc. to the outside of the pack case when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell or battery module.

[0008] However, in conventional battery packs, flames or flammable particles generated within the battery pack can potentially be exposed to the outside of the pack case through the venting. Consequently, flames can spread to adjacent battery packs or devices equipped with the battery pack, potentially causing even more serious problems.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need for a technology that prevents flames or fire from spreading outside the battery pack by allowing venting gas to be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery pack through the venting portion while preventing flames or fire from being exposed to the outside of the battery pack.

[0010] Accordingly, the present invention is intended to solve the problems described above, and provides a battery pack that can prevent flames and the like from being exposed to the outside of the battery pack in the event of an abnormality in a battery cell or battery module.

[0011] In addition, another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack in which venting gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery pack in the event of an abnormal condition in a battery cell or battery module.

[0012] In addition, another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack in which thermal runaway propagation of a battery pack unit can be prevented or suppressed.

[0013] Accordingly, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack with improved safety and reliability in the event of an abnormal situation of a battery cell or battery module.

[0014] In addition, another problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to provide a vehicle including such a battery pack.

[0015] However, the problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0016] To solve the above problem, a battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention may include: a pack case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a venting portion configured to discharge gases generated from the battery cells to the outside; and a blocking composite member configured to cover at least a portion of the venting portion and block flames generated inside the pack case from being exposed to the outside.

[0017] The above blocking composite member may be provided between the plurality of battery cells and the venting portion.

[0018] The pack case may include a base frame on which the plurality of battery cells are mounted, and a side frame extending upward from the base frame and having the venting portion, and the blocking composite member may be configured to face the side frame on which the venting portion is formed.

[0019] The above blocking composite member may be provided by being bolted to the side frame.

[0020] The above blocking composite member may be provided in a multi-plate shape configured to cover the venting portion.

[0021] The above blocking composite member may include a mesh member configured to filter the flame and allow the gas to pass through, and a blocking wall provided on at least one side of the mesh member to cover at least one side of the mesh member.

[0022] The above barrier may be provided to include a mica material.

[0023] The above blocking composite member may include a communication hole formed by penetrating a portion of the blocking wall to allow the gas to pass through.

[0024] The above-mentioned blocking composite member may further include a coating layer formed by coating the outer surface of the blocking wall with a material having fire-resistant properties.

[0025] The above barrier wall may include a first barrier wall provided between the venting portion and the mesh member, and a second barrier wall provided on the other side of the mesh member.

[0026] The above mesh member, the first barrier wall and the second barrier wall may be configured to be stacked in one direction.

[0027] The above blocking composite member may include at least one first communication hole and at least one second communication hole formed in each of the first blocking wall and the second blocking wall and configured to allow the gas to pass through.

[0028] The above first communication hole and the second communication hole may be configured to intersect each other along the above one direction.

[0029] The first communication holes may be arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, and the second communication holes may be arranged in a row and column at positions that are offset from the first communication holes along the one direction.

[0030] The mesh member is configured to completely cover the front of the venting portion, and the blocking wall is configured to cover the upper portion of the venting portion from the inside of the mesh member, thereby blocking the flame.

[0031] The module case may further include a plurality of battery cells accommodated in an internal space and having a venting hole formed on the upper side to communicate with the internal space.

[0032] The above blocking composite member may further include a lower bend portion configured to bend away from the mesh member at the lower end of the blocking wall.

[0033] The above lower bending portion may be configured so that the angle formed with the blocking wall is an obtuse angle.

[0034] And, the automobile according to the present invention may include a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0035] According to one aspect of the present invention, flames or flammable particles generated in an abnormal situation of a battery cell or battery module are prevented from being exposed to the outside of the battery pack, thereby ensuring safety and reliability.

[0036] Moreover, according to another aspect of the present invention, the performance of preventing thermal runaway propagation of a battery pack unit can be effectively secured by preventing flames from being exposed to the outside of the battery pack.

[0037] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, venting gas generated in the event of an abnormal condition in a battery cell can be smoothly discharged outside the pack case. Therefore, other battery cells or battery modules can be minimized from thermal damage, thereby preventing further chain reactions.

[0038] Thus, according to another aspect of the present invention, events resulting from thermal runaway of a battery pack or a device equipped with the same, such as fire or explosion, can be prevented or delayed.

[0039] In particular, for electric vehicles, by inhibiting or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells or battery modules, sufficient time can be secured for occupants to escape or drive.

[0040] In addition, the present invention may have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment configuration, or an explanation of effects that can be easily inferred by a person skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0041] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention, and together with the detailed description of the invention described below, serve to further understand the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a main part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a blocking composite member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 5 may be a drawing illustrating a cross-section taken along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0047] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a blocking composite member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main portion of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a blocking composite member included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the top. For example, Fig. 11 may be a drawing showing the cross-section taken along line II-II' of Fig. 1.

[0053] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 12 may be a drawing showing the cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0054] FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main portion of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a blocking composite member included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main portion of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0059] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0060] Furthermore, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar components will be omitted, and the differences will be described.

[0061] Meanwhile, in the present invention, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used, but it is obvious to those skilled in the art that these terms are only for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the location of the target object or the location of the observer.

[0062] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean a left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may mean a front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on a horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction may mean an up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0063] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a main part of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. And, FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a blocking composite member included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 5 may be a drawing showing a cross-section taken along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell (100), a pack case (200), and a blocking composite member (300).

[0065] First, referring to FIG. 1, a battery pack (1) according to the present invention may include a pack case (200). The pack case (200) forms the exterior of the battery pack (1). The pack case (200) may have a predetermined length in each of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions, and may have an overall shape of approximately a rectangular parallelepiped.

[0066] Referring further to FIGS. 2 and 3, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention may include at least one, preferably a plurality of battery modules (10). The battery modules (10) may be accommodated within the pack case (200) of FIG. 1.

[0067] In addition, each of the plurality of battery modules (10) may include a plurality of battery cells (100). At this time, the plurality of battery cells (100) included in the battery module (10) may be electrically connected to each other. That is, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention includes a plurality of battery modules (10), and the plurality of battery cells (100) included in the battery pack (1) may be divided and included in a plurality of battery modules (10).

[0068] Referring to FIG. 3, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be included. Although not shown in the drawing, the plurality of battery cells (100) may include an electrode assembly, a cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead that is connected to the electrode assembly and extends outward from the cell case to function as an electrode terminal. In this case, the plurality of battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0069] The battery cell (100) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The cell case of such a pouch-type secondary battery may be configured in a pouch shape in which a metal layer made of aluminum is interposed between polymer layers.

[0070] In addition, although not shown in the drawing, such a pouch type battery cell (100) may include an electrode assembly, a cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead that is connected to the electrode assembly and extends outward from the cell case to function as an electrode terminal. The cell case may include a storage portion that accommodates the electrode assembly and a sealing portion that seals the periphery of the storage portion.

[0071] A plurality of battery cells (100) can be arranged in a parallel manner in the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) while standing vertically (Z-axis direction), as illustrated in FIG. 3. At this time, each battery cell (100) can have its sealing portion facing left-right (X-axis direction) and up-down (Z-axis direction), and its storage portion facing forward-backward (Y-axis direction).

[0072] Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the battery cell (100), and various battery cells (100) known at the time of application of the present invention may be employed to construct the battery pack (1) of the present invention. In the present embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery having a high energy density and easy stacking is targeted as shown in the drawing, but it goes without saying that a cylindrical or square secondary battery may be applied as the battery cell (100) of the present invention.

[0073] The battery module (10) may include a module case (11). The module case (11) may be configured to have an empty space formed therein and accommodate at least some of a plurality of battery cells (100) in the internal space. In particular, the module case (11) may be included in each battery module (10), grouping a plurality of battery cells (100) into multiple battery modules (10), and may serve as a boundary that physically limits the internal space of each battery module (10). The module case (11) may be formed of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the accommodated battery cells (100).

[0074] Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, the battery module (10) may include a busbar assembly and / or module terminals electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (100) housed therein.

[0075] The battery module (10) may include a venting hole (12). The venting hole (12) may be configured to allow gas generated from a battery cell (100) housed inside the module case (11) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (11).

[0076] Specifically, a venting hole (12) may be provided in the module case (11) to enable directional venting in a specific direction. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the venting hole (12) may be provided in the upper portion of the module case (11). With this configuration, venting gas and / or flames may be induced to be discharged toward the upper portion of the battery module (10).

[0077] Referring to FIG. 2, the pack case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100) or a plurality of battery modules (10). That is, the pack case (200) may provide a space for accommodating a plurality of battery cells (100) or a plurality of battery modules (10). The pack case (200) may be made of a material that can ensure mechanical strength, such as a metal such as steel or SUS, or a plastic, or may include such a material, in order to safely protect the battery cells (100) accommodated therein.

[0078] Additionally, the pack case (200) may be provided with a venting portion (V). The venting portion (V) may be configured to discharge gas generated from the battery cells (100) housed inside to the outside of the pack case (200). The venting portion (V) may be provided in the form of a hole penetrating between the inside and the outside of the pack case (200).

[0079] Alternatively, the venting portion (V) may be configured to be mountable in a hole of the pack case (200) and may be provided in the form of a venting device that operates when venting gas is generated inside the pack case (200).

[0080] For example, the venting part (V) may be provided with a venting valve or implemented as such a venting valve. In this case, a mounting hole may be formed in the pack case (200) so that the venting part (V) can be configured to be mounted in the mounting hole. In the case where the venting part (V) is provided with a venting valve or implemented in the form of such a venting valve, when the internal pressure of the pack case (200) increases, the venting valve may be configured to open and discharge the venting gas to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0081] Meanwhile, the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a blocking composite member (300). The blocking composite member (300) may be configured to cover at least a portion of the venting portion (V). According to one embodiment of the present invention, the blocking composite member (300) may be configured to block flames, etc. generated inside the pack case (200) from passing through the venting portion (V) and being exposed to the outside of the pack case (200). The blocking composite member (300) may be made of a material including a material having low thermal conductivity and excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance.

[0082] Flames with strong straight-line propagation may be emitted from the battery cell (100) and may hit the internal structure of the pack case (200) and move to the venting portion (V). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the flames may be blocked from being emitted to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting portion (V) by the blocking composite member (300). As a result, the performance of preventing thermal runaway propagation in each battery pack may be effectively secured. Therefore, according to the above-described aspect of the present invention, the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1) may be guaranteed.

[0083]

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a blocking composite member (300) may be provided between a plurality of battery cells (100) and a venting portion (V). That is, the blocking composite member (300) may be provided on the inside of the pack case (200), particularly on the inside of the venting portion (V). Specifically, venting gas and / or flames generated from the battery cells (100) may move to the venting portion (V). That is, a venting path through which the venting gas and / or flames flow may be formed between the plurality of battery cells (100) and the venting portion (V). At this time, the blocking composite member (300) may be provided to cross the venting path. In other words, the blocking composite member (300) may be configured to be provided in the venting path to suppress the movement of flames and the like.

[0085] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the flame generated from the battery cell (100) is blocked in advance before reaching the venting portion (V) of the pack case (200), the flame can be more effectively suppressed from being discharged to the outside.

[0086]

[0087] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, the pack case (200) may include a base frame (210) and a side frame (220).

[0088] The base frame (210) may form the lower surface of the pack case (200) and may be provided in an approximately square plate shape. In addition, the base frame (210) may be configured such that a plurality of battery cells (100) are mounted on the upper surface. Furthermore, the base frame (210) may be provided with a flat upper surface so that a plurality of battery cells (100) or module cases (11) are stably mounted.

[0089] The side frame (220) may extend upward from each corner of the base frame (210). The side frame (220) may be provided with a plurality of unit walls to surround a plurality of battery cells (100) or battery modules (10). More specifically, the side frame (220) may include a rear wall located at the -Y direction side end of the base frame (210), a right wall located at the +X direction side end, a front wall located at the +Y direction side end, and a left wall located at the -X direction side end to form a side of the pack case (200).

[0090] The pack case (200) may further include a pack lid (230). The pack lid (230) may be configured to cover the upper portions of the plurality of battery cells (100). To this end, the pack lid (230) may be provided to be coupled to the upper portion of the side frame (220) to form the upper surface of the pack case (200).

[0091] The pack lid (230) can protect components housed inside, such as battery cells (100), and prevent venting gases and / or flames discharged from the battery cells (100) from being discharged to the outside, particularly the upper part, of the pack case (200). In particular, the pack lid (230) can guide venting gases and flames, etc., from the internal space of the pack case (200) toward the venting portion (V).

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 5, the pack case (200) may further include a cross beam (240). The cross beam (240) may be provided to partition between a plurality of battery cells (100) or battery modules (10). The cross beam (240) may be provided between a plurality of battery cells (100) and a side frame (220) in which a venting portion (V) is provided. For example, the cross beam (240) may be formed in the form of a partition wall that extends long in the left-right direction, and may be interposed between battery modules (10) that are adjacently arranged in the front-rear direction. In addition, the cross beam (240) may be formed in the form of a partition wall that extends long in the front-rear direction, and may be interposed between battery modules (10) that are adjacently arranged in the left-right direction.

[0093] The cross beam (240) may be provided to be spaced apart from the pack lead (230) by a predetermined distance. That is, the cross beam (240) may be configured so that at least a portion of the upper portion does not contact the lower surface of the pack lead (230) and is spaced apart by a predetermined distance.

[0094] According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent heat or flame from directly flowing between cell assemblies or battery modules (10) whose storage spaces are separated by the cross beam (240). In addition, according to the embodiment, due to the space between the cross beam (240) and the pack lid (230), gas or flame, etc. generated from the battery cell (100) can be further induced to move upward in the internal space of the pack case. For example, as shown in the part indicated by the dotted arrow in FIG. 5, the flame (F), etc., can move to the space between the cross beam (240) and the pack lid (230) and be reflected on the pack lid (230) or flow along the lower surface of the pack lid (230) toward the venting portion (V) and reach the blocking composite member (300) covering the venting portion (V). According to the embodiment of the present invention, the blocking composite member (300) can more reliably block flames directed toward the venting portion (V).

[0095] Meanwhile, the venting portion (V) may be provided on the side of the pack case (200), i.e., the side frame (220). At this time, the blocking composite member (300) may be provided on the side of the side frame (220) to cover the venting portion (V).

[0096] Each of the venting portions (V) and the blocking composite member (300) may be provided in multiple numbers. In particular, the venting portions (V) may be located in at least some of the unit walls among the multiple unit walls of the side frame (220). In addition, the venting portions (V) may be separately formed in two or more unit walls, or two or more may be formed in one unit wall. For example, referring to FIG. 2, the venting portions (V) may be provided in multiple numbers in each of the front wall and the rear wall. Each of the multiple venting portions (V) and the blocking composite member (300) may be provided to be symmetrical to each other with respect to the center of the side frame (220).

[0097] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when the battery cell (100) is in an abnormal state, high-temperature gas or the like can be discharged in both directions of the pack case (200), so it is easy to discharge the gas more quickly to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0098] Meanwhile, the number and location of the venting portion (V) and the blocking composite member (300) described based on the embodiment of Fig. 2 are merely examples, and can be changed to various other numbers or locations.

[0099] The blocking composite member (300) may be configured to face the side frame (220) in which the venting portion (V) is formed. At this time, the blocking composite member (300) may be provided to be spaced apart from the side frame (220) by a predetermined distance. According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, by securing a distance between the blocking composite member (300) and the side frame (220), a space through which the venting gas can flow can be formed. Moreover, in this case, the venting gas can also be discharged from the venting portion (V) to a portion covered by the blocking composite member (300). Therefore, the venting gas can be discharged more smoothly to the venting portion (V) through the space provided at the rear of the blocking composite member (300).

[0100] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present invention, flames and the like can be blocked by the blocking composite member (300), and at the same time, venting gas can be smoothly discharged. Thus, when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), the venting gas is quickly discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting portion (V), thereby preventing the internal pressure inside the pack case (200) from increasing and preventing additional chain ignition of other battery cells (100).

[0101] The blocking composite member (300) can be connected to the side frame (220) by a joining member (400). For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the joining member (400) can be provided as a bolt, and the blocking composite member (300) can be connected to the side frame (220) by bolting.

[0102] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, a bonding and fixing configuration between the blocking composite member (300) and the side frame (220) can be achieved with a simple structure. In this case, since the blocking composite member (300) is firmly fixed by the bonding member (400), it does not easily move due to pressure from a flame or the like, so that the flame-blocking effect for the venting portion (V) can be more stably achieved. In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the assembly of the battery pack (1) becomes easier, so that productivity can be improved.

[0103] As another example, the blocking composite member (300) may be attached to the side frame (220). As another example, the blocking composite member (300) may be added to the side frame (220) as a bulkhead or may replace the side frame (220).

[0104] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a blocking composite member included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] The blocking composite member (300) may be provided in a plate shape configured to cover the venting portion (V). Since the blocking composite member (300) is manufactured in a plate shape, the blocking composite member (300) may be configured to face parallel to the venting portion (V) or the side frame (220). According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, the blocking composite member (300) can more easily cover the venting portion (V). In addition, according to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, when assembling the battery pack (1), assembly is easy, thereby reducing time and cost.

[0106] The blocking composite member (300) may be composed of multiple plates. For example, the blocking composite member (300) may be composed of a double or triple structure. Specifically, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , the blocking composite member (300) may include a mesh member (310) and a blocking wall (320). In this way, the blocking composite member (300) may be provided in a multi-plate shape configured to cover the venting portion (V).

[0107] The mesh member (310) may be configured to filter flames and allow gases to pass through. The mesh member (310) may be configured in a form in which a plurality of pores are formed in a plate-like member, or in a form in which a plurality of wires are woven like a net. In this case, the pores may be configured to have a size capable of filtering flames discharged to the outside of the pack case (200). That is, the mesh member (310) may capture flames and the like and delay or block them from being discharged to the outside. In addition, the mesh member (310) may be configured to allow the passage of venting gas (G).

[0108] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, not only can exposure of flames to the outside of the pack case (200) be minimized, but venting gas can also be quickly discharged. Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the mesh member (310) forms an insulating air layer, thereby delaying or blocking the propagation of heat.

[0109] The barrier wall (320) may be configured to block flames (F) from the inside of the pack case (200) toward the venting portion (V). This barrier wall (320) may be formed of a material having excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. For example, the barrier wall (320) may be formed to include mica. According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, even when high-temperature heat is generated, shrinkage does not occur and dimensional stability can be maintained, thereby stably blocking high-temperature gases or flames generated from the battery cell (100).

[0110] The blocking wall (320) may be provided on at least one side of the mesh member (310) to cover at least one side of the mesh member (310). The blocking wall (320) may be provided on the front side and / or the rear side of the mesh member (310). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the mesh member (310) may be provided on the rear side relative to the venting portion (V), and the blocking wall (320) may be provided on the rear side of the mesh member (310) to cover the rear side of the mesh member (310). According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, the flame is primarily blocked by the blocking wall (320) and secondarily blocked by the mesh member (310), thereby more effectively preventing the flame from being exposed to the venting portion (V).

[0111] The blocking composite member (300) may include a communication hole (H). The communication hole (H) may be formed by penetrating a portion of the blocking wall (320) so that a venting gas (G) may pass through it. According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, as indicated by the bold arrow in FIG. 6, the venting gas (G) may flow into the communication hole (H) and be discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting portion (V). Accordingly, when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), the venting gas is quickly discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting portion (V), thereby preventing the internal pressure inside the pack case (200) from increasing and suppressing or delaying additional chain ignition of other battery cells (100).

[0112] At the same time, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, as shown by the dotted arrow in FIG. 6, the flame is mostly blocked in the part where the communication hole (H) of the blocking wall (320) is not provided, and the flame that is not blocked by the blocking wall (320) and flows into the communication hole (H) is filtered by the mesh member (310) and may not be discharged to the venting part (V).

[0113] Referring to FIG. 8, the barrier composite member (300) may further include a coating layer (330). The coating layer (330) may be formed by coating the outer surface of the barrier wall (320). The coating layer (330) may include a material having fire resistance. Thus, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the coating layer (330) is provided on the outer surface of the barrier wall (320), heat conduction and heat radiation to the outside of the barrier wall (320) can be prevented. Thus, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, thermal runaway propagation of a battery pack (1) unit can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0114] For example, the coating layer (330) may be a ceramic coating layer. Conventionally known ceramic coatings are those that coat organic materials (e.g., fluororesin) with ceramic as an additive. The coating layer (330) may be a ceramic coating layer that does not contain organic materials and is mainly composed of ceramic. The ceramic coating layer may be formed by applying a coating agent containing ceramic powder and curing naturally or at a low temperature of about 200°C. The coating agent may be a slurry formed by mixing ceramic fine powder such as alumina or silica with water and an inorganic dispersant. The coating agent may further include an inorganic oxide (K2O, BaO, etc.) that enables the formation of a glassy substance. However, this slurry does not contain an organic solvent or an organic binder. If it contains an organic solvent or an organic binder, the heat resistance is low and the coating deteriorates over time after formation. The ceramic coating layer may be formed by applying this slurry-type coating agent to the surface of the barrier wall (320) and curing it. Any method of application, such as dip coating, spin coating, spray coating, or brushing, may be used. This slurry-type coating agent can be directly coated on the barrier wall (320) to enable low-temperature fusion, is environmentally friendly, harmless to the human body, and has excellent corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and adhesion.

[0115] The ceramic coating layer can block flames exceeding 1000°C. Accordingly, the flame propagation blocking effect of the adjacent blocking composite member (300) can be enhanced. In addition, the ceramic coating layer can further enhance the durability of the blocking composite member (300).

[0116] Fig. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main portion of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a blocking composite member included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention as viewed from above. For example, Fig. 11 may be a drawing showing a cross-section taken along line II-II' of Fig. 1.

[0117] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the blocking composite member (300) may be provided as a triple-structured plate. Specifically, the blocking wall (320) may include a first blocking wall (320a) and a second blocking wall (320b). The first blocking wall (320a) and the second blocking wall (320b) may be configured to cover the mesh member (310) on both sides of the mesh member (310). For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 to 11 , the first blocking wall (320a) may be provided on one side of the mesh member (310), that is, the front side. That is, the first blocking wall (320a) may be provided between the venting portion (V) and the mesh member (310). In addition, the second blocking wall (320b) may be provided on the other side of the mesh member (310), that is, the rear side. Here, the front side may mean the +Y-axis direction, and the rear side may mean the -Y-axis direction.

[0118] According to this configuration of the present invention, the mesh member (310) can delay or block flames (F) and the like from being emitted to the outside. The second blocking wall (320b) can delay or block flames (F) and the like that are not blocked by the mesh member (310) from being emitted. Thus, by providing the triple-structured blocking composite member (300), heat propagation can be more reliably suppressed, thereby improving the thermal safety of the battery pack (1).

[0119] The mesh member (310), the first blocking wall (320a), and the second blocking wall (320b) may be configured to be stacked in one direction. For example, the mesh member (310), the first blocking wall (320a), and the second blocking wall (320b) may be stacked along the front-back direction (Y-axis direction). That is, the venting portion (V), the second blocking wall (320b), the mesh member (310), and the first blocking wall (320a) may be sequentially arranged along the front-back direction. The first blocking wall (320a) and the second blocking wall (320b) may support the mesh member (310) from both sides. According to this configuration of the present invention, the mesh member (310) may be stably fixed by the first blocking wall (320a) and the second blocking wall (320b) provided on both sides. Accordingly, deformation of the mesh member (310) due to high-temperature flames, etc. can be prevented, so that emission of flames, etc. can be suppressed more stably.

[0120] The blocking composite member may include a first communication hole (H1) and a second communication hole (H2) configured to allow gas to pass through. The first communication hole (H1) and the second communication hole (H2) may each be formed in one or more. The first communication hole (H1) and the second communication hole (H2) may be formed in the first blocking wall (320a) and the second blocking wall (320b), respectively. At this time, the flame may also pass through the first communication hole (H1) and the second communication hole (H2). Accordingly, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the first blocking wall (320a) may block the flame (F), etc., and the gas (G) or the flame (F), etc., which are not blocked by the first blocking wall (320a), may flow into the mesh member (310) through the first communication hole (H1). At this time, the mesh member (310) can capture flames (F) and the like and allow gas (G) to pass through. In addition, the second blocking wall (320b) can allow gas (G) to pass through the second communication hole (H2) to the venting portion (V).

[0121] According to this configuration of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs, the blocking composite member (300) can suppress heat propagation by blocking flames (F) and the like while smoothly discharging gas (G) to the outside. As a result, the thermal safety of the battery pack (1) can be improved.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 11, the first communication hole (H1) and the second communication hole (H2) may each be provided in multiple numbers. At this time, the number of the first communication holes (H1) may be less than that of the second communication holes (H2). That is, the number of the second communication holes (H2) provided closer to the venting portion (V) than the number of the first communication holes (H1) may be greater, so that the gas can be smoothly discharged to the venting portion (V).

[0123] The first communication hole (H1) and the second communication hole (H2) may be configured to intersect each other along the aforementioned direction (front-back direction). In other words, a plurality of first communication holes (H1) may be arranged along rows and columns, and the second communication holes (H2) may be arranged along rows and columns at positions that are offset from the first communication holes (H1) along the same direction. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the first communication holes (H1) may be arranged in, for example, two rows and five columns on the first blocking wall (320a), and the second communication holes (H2) may be arranged in, for example, three rows and six columns between the first communication holes (H1) so that they do not overlap along the front-back direction.

[0124] According to this embodiment of the present invention, since the first communication hole (H1) and the second communication hole (H2) are arranged in an alternating manner, the movement path of gas (G), flame (F), etc. can be increased when a thermal event occurs. In order for the flame (F) to reach the venting portion (V), it must pass through the first communication hole (H1), pass through the mesh member (310), and pass through the second communication hole (H2) that is positioned at a position that is offset from the first communication hole (H1). If the blocking composite member (300) is not provided, for example, the direction of flame (F) discharge is along the Y-axis, but if the blocking composite member (300) is provided, the direction of flame (F) discharge can become a zigzag direction with respect to the Y-axis. Thereby, the movement path of flame, etc. can be extended, thereby reducing the intensity of the flame. As a result, the blocking composite member (300) can more reliably suppress or block flame (F), etc. from being discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1). Meanwhile, the number and arrangement of the first communication hole (H1) and the second communication hole (H2) can be changed to design a way to further increase the movement path.

[0125] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 12 may be a drawing showing the cross-section taken along line I-I' of Fig. 1. In addition, Fig. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a major portion of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a blocking composite member included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the blocking composite member (300) may include a mesh member (310) and a blocking wall (320) of different sizes. Specifically, the mesh member (310) is configured to completely cover the front of the venting portion (V), and the blocking wall (320) is configured to cover the upper portion of the venting portion (V) from the inside of the mesh member (310), thereby blocking the flame. For example, the blocking wall (320) may be configured to cover only the mesh member (310) and the upper portion of the venting portion (V). At this time, the blocking wall (320) may not be provided with a communication hole (H). As a result, gas or flames directed toward the venting portion (V) may not pass through the blocking wall (320).

[0127] Venting gas or flames emitted from the battery cell (100) may be at high temperatures and have a strong tendency to flow upward. In particular, when the venting hole (12) is provided at the upper portion of the battery module (10), the venting gas or flames may be directed toward the upper portion of the pack case (200), as indicated by the dotted arrow in FIG. 12.

[0128] Therefore, as in the above embodiment, when the blocking wall (320) is configured to cover the upper part of the venting portion (V), the external discharge of the flame can be more reliably suppressed by ensuring that a flame with strong straightness necessarily collides with the blocking wall (320). In addition, flames that are not blocked by the blocking wall (320) can be blocked by the mesh member (310). At the same time, as indicated by the bold arrow in Fig. 12, the venting gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the lower part of the mesh member (310) that is exposed and not covered by the blocking wall (320) due to the internal pressure.

[0129] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when high-temperature gas, etc. is discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) in a situation such as thermal runaway, the discharged gas may not be directed upward. In particular, in a case where a passenger is positioned above the battery pack (1), such as in an electric vehicle, if upward discharge of gas, flame, etc. is suppressed, the safety of the passenger can be further improved. That is, according to the embodiment of the present invention, by ensuring that directional venting is performed downward of the battery pack (1), the safety of users, etc. positioned above, such as the passenger, can be improved.

[0130]

[0131] FIG. 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main portion of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] The blocking composite member (300) may further include a lower bend portion (340). The lower bend portion (340) may be provided to extend from the lower end of the blocking wall (320). The lower bend portion (340) may be configured to be bent at a predetermined angle in a direction away from the mesh member (310) at the lower end of the blocking wall (320) (inward of the pack case (200). Furthermore, the lower bend portion (340) may be configured to be bent in a shape that becomes closer to the base frame (210) as it goes in the inward direction (the -Y-axis direction of FIG. 15). Here, the lower bend portion (340) may be said to be configured in a diagonal shape. For example, the lower bend portion (340) may be configured such that the angle it forms with the blocking wall (320) is an obtuse angle.

[0133] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, flames that collide with the barrier wall (320) and are reflected downward can be guided toward the inside of the pack case (200). Accordingly, the flames can be more reliably blocked from heading back toward the venting portion (V), thereby more effectively suppressing the flames from being emitted to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0134]

[0135] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 16, a vehicle (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) according to the above-described embodiments. The vehicle (3) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (3) includes a four-wheeled vehicle and a two-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from a battery pack (1) or a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention as claimed in the claims. Furthermore, such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present invention.

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells; A pack case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a venting portion configured to discharge gas generated from the battery cells to the outside; and A battery pack characterized by including a blocking composite member configured to cover at least a portion of the venting portion and block flames generated inside the pack case from being exposed to the outside.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that the above blocking composite member is provided between the plurality of battery cells and the venting portion.

3. In paragraph 1, The above pack case is A base frame on which the above plurality of battery cells are mounted, A side frame extending upward from the base frame and having the venting portion, A battery pack characterized in that the above blocking composite member is configured to face the side frame in which the venting portion is formed.

4. In paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the above blocking composite member is provided by being bolted to the side frame.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that the above blocking composite member is provided in a multi-plate shape configured to cover the above venting portion.

6. In paragraph 1, The above blocking composite member is A mesh member configured to filter the flame and pass the gas; A battery pack characterized by including a blocking wall provided on at least one side of the mesh member to cover at least one side of the mesh member.

7. In paragraph 6, A battery pack characterized in that the above barrier is provided to include a mica material.

8. In paragraph 6, The above blocking composite member is A battery pack characterized in that it includes a communication hole formed by penetrating a portion of the above barrier wall so that the gas can pass through.

9. In paragraph 6, The above blocking composite member is A battery pack further comprising a coating layer formed by coating the outer surface of the barrier with a material having fire resistance.

10. In paragraph 6, The above barrier is A first barrier provided between the venting portion and the mesh member, A battery pack characterized by including a second blocking wall provided on the other side of the mesh member.

11. In paragraph 10, A battery pack characterized in that the mesh member, the first blocking wall, and the second blocking wall are configured to be stacked in one direction.

12. In paragraph 11, The above blocking composite member is A battery pack characterized in that it comprises at least one first communication hole and at least one second communication hole formed in each of the first and second blocking walls and configured to allow the gas to pass through.

13. In paragraph 12, A battery pack characterized in that the first communication hole and the second communication hole are configured to intersect each other along the one direction.

14. In paragraph 12, The above first communication holes are arranged in multiple rows and columns, A battery pack characterized in that the second communication holes are arranged in rows and columns at positions that are offset from the first communication holes along the one direction.

15. In paragraph 6, The above mesh member is configured to completely cover the front of the venting portion, A battery pack characterized in that the above barrier is configured to cover the upper part of the venting part from the inside of the mesh member, thereby blocking the flame.

16. In paragraph 15, A battery pack characterized in that it further includes a module case that accommodates the plurality of battery cells in an internal space and has a venting hole formed on the upper side to communicate with the internal space.

17. In paragraph 15, The above blocking composite member is A battery pack further characterized by including a lower bending portion configured to bend in a direction away from the mesh member at the lower end of the barrier wall.

18. In paragraph 17, A battery pack characterized in that the lower bending portion is configured so that the angle formed with the blocking wall is an obtuse angle.

19. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

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