Thermal barrier for secondary battery and battery pack comprising same

Abstract

Provided is a thermal barrier for a secondary battery, comprising: a metal enclosure having an internal space; a cooling insulation material provided inside the metal enclosure; a metal support which accommodates the metal enclosure; and a packaging pouch which surrounds the metal support, wherein the metal support includes a first plate and a second plate, and the metal enclosure is accommodated between the first plate and the second plate.

Description

Thermal barrier for secondary batteries and battery packs including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a thermal barrier for a secondary battery and a battery pack including the same, and more particularly, to a thermal barrier for a secondary battery and a battery pack including the same, which can lower the transfer temperature between battery cells and delay heat transfer by cooling and blocking heat transferred when a battery cell ignites.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0132494, filed October 5, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as a power source for various wireless devices, including handsets, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, improved energy density and economies of scale have dramatically reduced the per-unit manufacturing cost of secondary batteries. Furthermore, as the range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased to match that of fuel-powered vehicles, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0004] Meanwhile, demand for large-capacity battery packs for electric vehicles and other applications is increasing. Large-capacity battery packs installed in automobiles are expected to increase capacity and enhance safety.

[0005] The first technical task to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a thermal barrier for a secondary battery that can lower the transfer temperature between battery cells and delay heat transfer by cooling and blocking the heat transferred when a battery cell ignites.

[0006] The second technical task to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack that can lower the temperature transferred between battery cells and delay heat transfer by cooling and blocking the heat transferred when a battery cell ignites.

[0007] The present invention provides a thermal barrier for a secondary battery, comprising: a metal enclosure having an internal space; a cooling insulation material provided inside the metal enclosure; a metal support accommodating the metal enclosure; and a packaging pouch surrounding the metal support; wherein the metal support includes a first plate and a second plate, and the metal enclosure is accommodated between the first plate and the second plate.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first plate and the second plate may be fitted to each other at one side of the metal enclosure.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first plate and the second plate may be fitted to each other on the other side of the metal enclosure.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first plate includes a first panel portion and fastening grooves provided at both ends of the panel portion, and the second plate includes a second panel portion, fastening extensions provided at both ends of the second panel portion, and an intermediate extension connecting the second panel portion and the fastening extension, wherein the fastening extensions can be fitted into the fastening grooves.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first plate includes an edge portion, the edge portion being a portion in which at least one portion of each end of the first plate is bent, and the fastening groove may be a groove formed in the edge portion and open inwardly toward the first panel portion.

[0012] In some embodiments, the fastening grooves provided on both ends of the first plate may be opened in a direction facing each other.

[0013] In some embodiments, the intermediate extension portion may extend obliquely between the second panel portion and the fastening extension portion.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first plate includes a first panel portion and a fastening groove provided on one side of the panel portion, and the second plate includes a second panel portion, a fastening extension provided on one side of the second panel portion, and an intermediate extension connecting the second panel portion and the fastening extension, wherein the fastening extension can be fitted into the fastening groove.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first plate includes an edge portion, the edge portion being a portion where an end of the first plate is bent, and the fastening groove may be a groove formed in the edge portion and open inwardly toward the first panel portion.

[0016] In some embodiments, the intermediate extension portion may extend obliquely between the second panel portion and the fastening extension portion.

[0017] In some embodiments, the metal enclosure may be copper foil.

[0018] In some embodiments, the metal support may be a SUS plate.

[0019] In order to achieve the second technical task, the present invention provides a battery pack including a plurality of battery cells stacked in a first direction; and at least one secondary battery thermal barrier provided between the plurality of battery cells.

[0020] A thermal barrier for a secondary battery according to embodiments of the present invention includes a cooling insulating material, thereby cooling and blocking heat transferred when a battery cell ignites, thereby lowering the temperature transferred between battery cells and delaying heat transfer.

[0021] Additionally, in some embodiments of the thermal barrier for secondary batteries, the metal enclosure can eliminate local hot spots by quickly transferring heat when a high temperature occurs at a point in the battery module.

[0022] Additionally, in some embodiments of the thermal barrier for secondary batteries, the metal enclosure and cooling insulation material can be protected from external impact and external force.

[0023] Additionally, in some embodiments of a thermal barrier for secondary batteries, external pressure can be dispersed and structural strength can be enhanced. Therefore, structural collapse due to external pressure can be prevented, thereby ensuring structural stability against cell swelling or cell ignition.

[0024] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from practicing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a battery assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] Fig. 2 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of a part of the battery assembly of Fig. 1.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a cross-section of the battery assembly taken along line III-III' of FIG. 2.

[0028] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the cell case removed from the battery cell.

[0029] Figure 5 illustrates the appearance of a thermal barrier for a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of the secondary battery thermal barrier of FIG. 5 cut along a plane perpendicular to a second direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) passing through the secondary battery thermal barrier of FIG. 5.

[0031] Figure 7 is an exploded view of the thermal barrier for the secondary battery of Figure 5.

[0032] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing the appearance of the metal support of the secondary battery thermal barrier of Fig. 5.

[0033] Figure 9 is a drawing showing the metal support of Figure 8 as viewed in a third direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction).

[0034] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 9.

[0035] Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the appearance of a metal support of a thermal barrier for a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of part B of Figure 11.

[0037] Figure 13 shows the compressive force (F) generated in the metal support when pressure is generated in the first direction (e.g., X-axis direction).

[0038] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a typical battery module.

[0039] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a pad included in a typical battery module.

[0040] Figure 16 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig. 17 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the configuration of the battery pack of Fig. 16.

[0042] Fig. 18 is a perspective view showing the battery cells of Fig. 17 mounted in the pack housing.

[0043] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments of the present invention may be modified in various different forms, and the scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited by the embodiments described below. It is preferable to interpret that the embodiments of the present invention are provided to more completely explain the present invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Furthermore, various elements and areas in the drawings are schematically drawn. Therefore, the present invention is not limited by the relative sizes or spacings depicted in the accompanying drawings.

[0044] While terms like "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component could be referred to as a "second component," and vice versa, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0045] The terminology used in this application is only used to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the inventive concept. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, it should be understood that the expressions “comprises” or “has” indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0046] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, it is to be understood that commonly used terms, such as those defined in dictionaries, should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning within the relevant technical context, and should not be interpreted in an overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0047] In some embodiments, where implementations are otherwise feasible, specific process sequences may be performed in a different order than described. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in a reverse order from the described order.

[0048] In the accompanying drawings, variations in the shapes depicted may be expected, for example, depending on manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes of the regions depicted herein, but should include, for example, variations in shapes resulting from the manufacturing process. The term "and / or" as used herein encompasses each and every combination of the components mentioned.

[0049]

[0050] (Example 1)

[0051] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a battery assembly (10) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of a part of the battery assembly (10) of Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a cross-section of the battery assembly (10) taken along line III-III' of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a battery cell (100) with a cell case (130) removed.

[0052] In FIGS. 1 to 4, the battery assembly (10) is illustrated as being defined in a vertical coordinate system defined by a first direction along the x-axis, a second direction along the y-axis, and a third direction along the z-axis, which are all perpendicular to each other, but the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are not particularly limited as long as they are relatively perpendicular to each other.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery assembly (10) may include a plurality of battery cells (100) and secondary battery thermal barriers (200) disposed between the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0054] The above plurality of battery cells (100) may be arranged in a first direction (e.g., X direction). In the drawing, the battery assembly (10) is illustrated as including six battery cells (100), but is not limited thereto, and the battery assembly (10) may include two or more battery cells (100).

[0055] Each battery cell (100) may include an electrode assembly (110), a multifunctional terminal block (MTB) (120), and a cell case (130).

[0056] An electrode assembly (110) may include a plurality of unit cells (111). Each of the plurality of unit cells (111) may have an electrode material applied on a metal foil that acts as a current collector. In exemplary embodiments, the electrode assembly (110) is a stacked electrode assembly, and the plurality of unit cells (111) may be stacked on each other in a first direction (e.g., an X-direction). The electrode assembly (110) composed of the plurality of unit cells (111) may have a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The electrode assembly (110) may have a front side and a back side opposite in a second direction (e.g., a Y-direction), a first side side and a second side side opposite in a first direction (e.g., an X-direction), and a third side side and a fourth side side opposite in a third direction (e.g., a Z-direction).

[0057] Each unit cell (111) may have a thin plate-shaped body extending in a second direction (e.g., Y direction). Each unit cell (111) may be a positive electrode unit cell (111) or a negative electrode unit cell (111). In some embodiments, the plurality of unit cells (111) may be formed by alternately stacking positive electrode unit cells (111) and negative electrode unit cells (111). The positive electrode unit cells (111) and the negative electrode unit cells (111) may be separated from each other by a separator. In some embodiments, the plurality of unit cells (111) may be formed by alternately stacking a plurality of positive electrode unit cells (111) and a plurality of negative electrode unit cells (111). The plurality of positive electrode unit cells (111) and the plurality of negative electrode unit cells (111) may be separated from each other by a separator.

[0058] The electrode assembly (110) may have electrode leads (116) at both ends in the second direction (e.g., Y direction). The electrode leads (116) may be electrically connected to electrode tabs of the plurality of unit cells (111). One or more electrode tabs may be connected to one electrode lead (116). In some embodiments, two or more electrode tabs may be connected to one electrode lead (116).

[0059] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly (110) may have two electrode leads (116) on one side and two electrode leads (116) on the other side. In this case, half of the plurality of unit cells (111) included in the electrode assembly (110) may be coupled to a first electrode lead (116a) on one side and coupled to a second electrode lead (116b) on the other side. In addition, the remaining half of the plurality of unit cells (111) included in the electrode assembly (110) may be coupled to a third electrode lead (116c) on one side and coupled to a fourth electrode lead (116d) on the other side. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0060] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly (110) may have one or more electrode leads (116) on one side. In some embodiments, the electrode assembly (110) may have one or more electrode leads (116) on the other side.

[0061] MTBs (120) may be provided at each of the two ends of the electrode assembly (110) in the second direction (e.g., Y direction). For example, one MTB (120) may be provided at one end of the electrode assembly (110) in the second direction (e.g., Y direction), and another MTB (120) may be provided at the other end of the electrode assembly (110) in the second direction (e.g., Y direction). In this case, one of the MTBs (120) provided at the one end and the MTBs (120) provided at the other end may be electrically connected to the positive electrode side of the electrode assembly (110), and the other may be electrically connected to the negative electrode side of the electrode assembly (110). The two MTBs (120) may have substantially the same or similar configurations, with only a difference in electrical polarity.

[0062] The MTB (120) may include an MTB housing (122), an electrode terminal portion (124) accommodated within the MTB housing (122), and a bus bar electrically connecting the electrode terminal portion (124) and the electrode lead (116).

[0063] The cell case (130) may surround the electrode assembly (110). More specifically, the cell case (130) may cover side surfaces of the electrode assembly (110) (i.e., the first side, the second side, the third side, and the fourth side of the electrode assembly (110). For example, in order to manufacture the cell case (130), after surrounding the electrode assembly (110) with a laminate sheet, one end of the laminate sheet and the other end of the laminate sheet may be fused to each other to form a sealed joint.

[0064] Additionally, the cell case (130) can be connected and fixed to the MTB housing (122). The edge portion of the cell case (130) surrounds the side surfaces of the MTB housing (122) and can be fused to the side surfaces of the MTB housing (122). The cell case (130) and the MTB housing (122) together can form a receiving space in which the electrode assembly (110) of the battery cell (100) is received.

[0065] In exemplary embodiments, the cell case (130) may be a laminate sheet comprising one or more resin layers and one or more metal layers. The one or more resin layers and the one or more metal layers may be laminated to each other.

[0066] A thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery may be placed between two battery cells (100) adjacent in a first direction (e.g., X direction). The two battery cells (100) may be spaced apart in the first direction (e.g., X direction) by the thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery. In some embodiments, the thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery may be attached to a cell case (130) and / or an MTB housing (122) of adjacent battery cells (100).

[0067] A thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery may be configured to cool an adjacent battery cell (100). In some embodiments, the thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery may be configured to cool the battery cell (100) by absorbing heat of the adjacent battery cell (100). The thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery is disposed between adjacent battery cells (100) in a first direction (e.g., X direction) and may function as a thermal barrier for thermally separating the battery cells (100). Since a secondary battery thermal barrier (200) is placed between a plurality of battery cells (100), even if one of the plurality of battery cells (100) ignites, heat transfer between the ignited battery cell (100) and another battery cell (100) can be blocked or suppressed by the secondary battery thermal barrier (200), thereby preventing the occurrence of a thermal runaway event.

[0068] In addition, the thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery is configured to have a predetermined rigidity due to the internal support structure and / or the material filling the interior as described below, and can prevent or suppress deformation of the battery cell (100) due to swelling. Furthermore, the thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery is configured to have a predetermined elasticity due to the internal support structure and / or the material filling the interior, and can be configured to be elastically deformed in a first direction (e.g., X direction) which is the arrangement direction of the battery cells (100). By elastically deforming in the first direction (e.g., X direction), the thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery can function as a buffer pad against deformation of the battery cell (100) (e.g., deformation of the battery cell (100) due to swelling).

[0069]

[0070] Fig. 5 illustrates the appearance of the secondary battery thermal barrier (200), and Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-section of the secondary battery thermal barrier (200) cut along a plane passing through the secondary battery thermal barrier (200) and perpendicular to a second direction (e.g., Y-axis direction). That is, Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating the AA cross-section of Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is an exploded view of the secondary battery thermal barrier (200).

[0071] The metal enclosure (210) may be an enclosure capable of containing and storing a cooling insulating material (220). The metal enclosure (210) may be, for example, a pouch-shaped enclosure having a space inside. The cooling insulating material (220) may be provided within the space.

[0072] In some embodiments, the metal enclosure (210) may be configured with copper foil. Accordingly, when a high temperature occurs at a point in the battery module, the high temperature can be quickly conducted across the area of ​​the metal enclosure (210). Accordingly, the metal enclosure (210) can eliminate localized hot spots by quickly dissipating heat across the entire area.

[0073] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the metal enclosure (210) may be sealed. Accordingly, the cooling insulating material (220) provided inside the metal enclosure (210) may not leak out within a certain pressure range.

[0074] A cooling insulating material (220) is provided within the metal enclosure (210) and may have a cooling insulating effect. Accordingly, the cooling insulating material (220) may lower the temperature transfer between battery cells and delay heat transfer by cooling and blocking heat transferred when a battery cell ignites. Accordingly, the cooling insulating material (220) may have a substantial thermal barrier effect.

[0075] The material of the cooling insulation material (220) is not limited. Since the cooling insulation material (220) is provided within the metal enclosure (210), it may include a liquid material in addition to a solid material.

[0076] In some embodiments, the cooling insulation material (220) may include an absorbent member and a heat-absorbing material. In some embodiments, the heat-absorbing material may be absorbed into the absorbent member and may be a material that can undergo phase change depending on temperature changes.

[0077] In some embodiments, the absorbent member may include an absorbent member such as a super absorbent polymer (SAP). Any material known in the art may be used for the super absorbent polymer, and is not particularly limited thereto. In some embodiments, the super absorbent polymer may include polyacrylamide, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, gelatin, polysaccharide, chitosan, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, or a combination thereof, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the absorbent member (222) may have a form such as a powder, granules, pellets, platelets, or slabs, and is not particularly limited thereto.

[0078] The absorbent member may have a liquid heat-absorbing material absorbed therein. In some embodiments, the heat-absorbing material may include a material that can repeatedly vaporize and condense within the operating temperature range of the battery assembly (10) and within a pressure range within and outside of atmospheric pressure. For example, the heat-absorbing material may include a material that can vaporize or condense within a pressure range of about 1 atm to about 10 atm and a temperature of about 70°C to about 130°C.

[0079] In some embodiments, the heat-absorbing material may include water, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, or the like. The heat-absorbing material may be absorbed in the absorbent member when in a liquid state. The heat-absorbing material may be vaporized by heat transferred from the battery cell (100) through the metal enclosure (210). The vaporized heat-absorbing material may exist in a gaseous state in the metal enclosure (210) and may be condensed and liquefied as it cools, and may be reabsorbed in the absorbent member. Since the heat transferred from the battery cell (100) is used as a temperature increase and enthalpy of vaporization of the heat-absorbing material, the transfer of the heat to another neighboring battery cell (100) may be reduced or blocked.

[0080] In some embodiments, the cooling insulation material (220) may include an insulating precursor. The insulating precursor may be a precursor that expands into a carbon foam form upon thermal decomposition to form an insulating layer. The insulating precursor may emit a extinguishing gas upon heating and form a carbon-structured insulating layer, thereby generating a heat-blocking effect.

[0081]

[0082] The above metal enclosure (210) can be accommodated within a metal support (230). FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the appearance of the metal support (230) of a thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery, and FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the metal support (230) when viewed in a second direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 9.

[0083] The metal support (230) is a member capable of accommodating the metal enclosure (210). The metal support (230) can define the position of the metal enclosure (210) and protect the metal enclosure (210) and the cooling insulation material (220) contained within the metal enclosure (210) from impact and movement due to external force.

[0084] The metal support (230) includes a first plate (231) and a second plate (232), and a predetermined receiving space (233) is formed between the first plate (231) and the second plate (232), and a metal enclosure (210) can be received within the receiving space (233).

[0085] Meanwhile, referring back to FIG. 6, the metal support (230) may be provided to make surface contact with the metal enclosure (210). The metal support (230) may secure a sufficient contact area with the metal enclosure (210).

[0086] The first plate (231) and the second plate (232) constituting the metal support (230) may have a thin plate-shaped body that is perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., X-axis direction) and extends in the second direction (e.g., Y-axis direction).

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the first plate (231) may include a first panel portion (231a) formed of a thin plate-shaped body that is perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) and extends in the second direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0088] The first plate (231) may have a fastening groove (231b) at both ends in the third direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). The fastening groove (231b) may be a groove into which at least a portion of the second plate (232) may be inserted.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first plate (231) may have edge portions (231c) at both ends in the third direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). The edge portions (231c) may be portions in which at least a portion of the ends of the first plate (231) in the third direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) is bent. The edge portions (231c) may be configured to have a generally U-shaped cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the edge portions (231c) may have a plane extending perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction).

[0090] The above-mentioned fastening groove (231b) may be formed by the edge portion (231c) and may be a groove that opens inwardly of the first panel portion (231a).

[0091] The second plate (232) may include a second panel portion (232a) composed of a thin plate-shaped body that is perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) and extends in the second direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0092] In some embodiments, the second panel portion (232a) and the first panel portion (231a) may be parallel to each other. That is, referring to FIG. 10, the virtual line (L1) formed by the first panel portion (231a) and the virtual line (L2-1) formed by the second panel portion (232a) may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0093] The second plate (232) may have a fastening extension portion (232b) at both ends in the third direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). The fastening extension portion (232b) may be configured to be insertable into the fastening groove (231b) as an end portion of the second plate (232).

[0094] In some embodiments, the second panel portion (232a) and the fastening extension portion (232b) may extend substantially parallel to each other. That is, referring to FIG. 10, the virtual line (L2-1) formed by the second panel portion (232a) and the virtual line (L2-2) formed by the fastening extension portion (232b) may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0095] The second plate (232) may include an intermediate extension portion (232c) connecting the second panel portion (232a) and the fastening extension portion (232b). The intermediate extension portion (232c) is positioned at both ends of the second panel portion (232a) in the third direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction).

[0096] In some embodiments, the intermediate extension portion (232c) may extend obliquely between the second panel portion (232a) and the fastening extension portion (232b). That is, referring to FIG. 10, the virtual line (L2-3) formed by the intermediate extension portion (232c) may have a predetermined angle with respect to the virtual line (L2-1) formed by the second panel portion (232a) and the virtual line (L2-2) formed by the fastening extension portion (232b).

[0097] The first plate (231) and the second plate (232) may be arranged to overlap each other in a first direction (e.g., X-axis direction) and the first panel portion (231a) and the second panel portion (232a) may face each other.

[0098] By providing the intermediate extension portion (232c) on the second plate (232), the first panel portion (231a) of the first plate (231) and the second panel portion (232a) of the second plate (232) can be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction). Accordingly, a space in which the metal enclosure (210) can be accommodated can be formed between the first panel portion (231a) and the second panel portion (232a).

[0099] In some embodiments, the fastening grooves (231b) provided at both ends of the first plate (231) in the third direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) may be opened in directions facing each other. In addition, the fastening extensions (232b) provided at both ends of the second plate (232) in the third direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) may be inserted into each of the fastening grooves (231b).

[0100] As described above, a fastening groove (231b) is provided at both ends of the first plate (231), a fastening extension portion (232b) is provided at both ends of the second plate (232), and the fastening extension portion (232b) is inserted into the fastening groove (231b), so that the first plate (231) and the second plate (232) can be coupled to each other.

[0101]

[0102] (Example 2)

[0103] Meanwhile, in the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the fastening groove (231b) and the edge portion (231c) are formed at both ends of the first plate (231) in the third direction (e.g., Z-axis direction), and the fastening extension portion (232b) is formed at both ends of the second plate (232) in the third direction (e.g., Z-axis direction), but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0104] For example, Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the appearance of a metal support (230) of a thermal barrier (200) for a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing showing the metal support (230) when viewed in a second direction (e.g., Y-axis direction), and Fig. 12 is a drawing showing an enlarged portion B of Fig. 11. Part A of Fig. 11 is the same as that shown in Fig. 10.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, a fastening groove (231b) and an edge portion (231c) may be formed on one end portion (part A of FIG. 11) of the first plate (231) in the third direction (e.g., Z-axis direction), and a fastening extension portion (231d) and an intermediate extension portion (231e) may be provided on the other end portion (part B of FIG. 11) of the first plate (231) in the third direction (e.g., Z-axis direction). In addition, the second plate (232) may be provided with a fastening extension portion (232b) and a middle extension portion (232c) at one end portion (part A of FIG. 11) in the third direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) corresponding to the configuration of the first plate (231), and a fastening groove (232d) and an edge portion (232e) may be provided at the other end portion (part B of FIG. 11) in the third direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) of the second plate (232).

[0106] The first plate (231) and the second plate (232) may have a rigid structure capable of withstanding swelling and external pressure of neighboring battery cells. Meanwhile, in some embodiments, the metal support (230) may be made of aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), or an alloy containing one or more of these.

[0107] In some embodiments, the first plate (231) and the second plate (232) constituting the metal support (230) may each be SUS plates made of SUS. In some embodiments, the first plate (231) and the second plate (232) may each independently have a thickness of about 0.1 mm. In some embodiments, the first plate (231) and the second plate (232) may each independently have a thickness of about 0.03 mm to about 0.8 mm.

[0108] The second plate (232) is provided with an intermediate extension (232c) that extends obliquely, and the first plate (231) is provided with an intermediate extension (231e) that extends obliquely, so that the first panel portion (231a) of the first plate (231) and the second panel portion (232a) of the second plate (232) can be spaced apart from each other in a first direction (e.g., X-axis direction) over the entire area. That is, the metal support (230) has an accommodation space (233) formed between the first plate (231) and the second plate (232), and the metal enclosure (210) can be accommodated in the accommodation space (233). Therefore, when pressure is generated in the first direction (e.g., X-axis direction), as illustrated in FIG. 13, the metal support (230) can be elastically compressed in the first direction (e.g., X-axis direction). Therefore, it can have the effect of dispersing external pressure and improving structural strength at the same time.

[0109]

[0110] Fig. 13 shows a compressive force (F) generated in a metal support (230) when pressure is generated in a first direction (e.g., X-axis direction). The metal support (230) includes a first plate (231) and a second plate (232), and the first plate (231) and the second plate (232) are made of SUS plates, and thus can have a structure that can be compressed in the first direction (e.g., X-axis direction). Therefore, the metal support (230) can have the effect of dispersing external pressure and enhancing structural strength at the same time.

[0111] In addition, by providing a metal support (230), even when the packaging pouch (240) is burned by flame, the structure of the thermal barrier (200) for secondary batteries can be prevented from collapsing.

[0112]

[0113] Referring again to FIGS. 5 to 7, the packaging pouch (240) may form the exterior of the secondary battery thermal barrier (200) according to the embodiments described above. The packaging pouch (240) may surround the metal support (230). The material of the packaging pouch (240) is not limited and may include, for example, synthetic resin.

[0114] The packaging pouch (240) may be formed of a single layer or may be a laminate in which two or more layers are laminated. In some embodiments, the packaging pouch (240) may include a multilayer structure in which an outermost outer resin layer made of an insulating material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or nylon, a metal layer made of aluminum that maintains mechanical strength and prevents the penetration of moisture and oxygen, and an inner resin layer made of a polyolefin-based material that has heat-adhesive properties and acts as a sealant are laminated.

[0115] The packaging pouch (240) may include a first pouch portion (241) and a second pouch portion (242) that constitute one side and the other side in the first direction (e.g., X-axis direction).

[0116] The outer surfaces of the first pouch portion (241) and the second pouch portion (242) can be at least partially fused and sealed with each other. Therefore, the internal material filled inside the packaging pouch (240) can be prevented from leaking out within a certain pressure range.

[0117]

[0118] Below, comparative examples and embodiments of the present invention are compared with each other, and the effects of the embodiments of the present invention are explained.

[0119] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a typical battery module, and Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a pad included in a typical battery module.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, a typical battery module includes battery cells (21) and pads (22) applied between the battery cells (21). The battery cells (21) are stacked in a first direction (e.g., X-axis direction), and pads (22) may be arranged between a plurality of battery cells (21) stacked in the first direction and on both sides. The pads (22) may be composed of a polyurethane-based material or a silicone-based material that is a product suitable for compressive strength in consideration of cell swelling.

[0121] These pads (22) are generally configured to respond to compressive deformation and have a relatively low effect in blocking heat transfer. That is, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (21), the function of preventing or delaying the propagation of flames within a short period of time is inadequate.

[0122] The above secondary battery thermal barrier (200) includes a cooling insulating material (220) as described above, thereby cooling and blocking the heat transferred when a battery cell ignites, thereby lowering the temperature transferred between battery cells and delaying heat transfer.

[0123] Additionally, in some embodiments of the thermal barrier (200) for secondary batteries, the metal enclosure (210) surrounding the cooling insulating material (220) may be composed of copper foil. Accordingly, the metal enclosure (210) can quickly transfer heat when a high temperature occurs at a specific point of the battery module, thereby eliminating localized hot spots.

[0124] Additionally, in some embodiments of the thermal barrier (200) for secondary batteries, a metal support (230) is provided to accommodate the metal enclosure (210), support the shape, and protect the metal enclosure (210) from external impact and external force.

[0125] Additionally, in some embodiments of the thermal barrier (200) for secondary batteries, the metal support (230) can have the effect of dispersing external pressure while simultaneously enhancing structural strength. Accordingly, structural collapse due to external pressure can be prevented, thereby ensuring structural stability in response to swelling of battery cells or thermal events of battery cells.

[0126]

[0127] (Example 3)

[0128] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of the battery pack (1) of FIG. 16, and FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the battery cells (100) of FIG. 17 mounted in a pack housing.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 18, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells (100), an electrical component assembly (500), a pack housing (300), and a pack cover (600).

[0130] The battery cells (100) are stacked in a first direction (e.g., X-axis direction), and a cooling pad (200) may be interposed between the battery cells. In some embodiments, the stack of the battery cells (100) and the cooling pad (200) may be stored directly within the pack housing (300) without being stored within another frame. However, a person skilled in the art will understand that various modifications are possible with respect to the method of storing the battery cells (100).

[0131] For example, a stack of the battery cells (100) and the cooling pads (200) may be housed in a module frame to form a battery module, and the battery modules may be housed in the pack housing (300). The module frame may be configured in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped box that surrounds the outer surface of the stack of the battery cells (100) and the cooling pads (200) so that the stack of the battery cells (100) and the cooling pads (200) may be held inside. The module frame may be made of a metal material having high mechanical rigidity so as to sufficiently protect the battery cells (100) from swelling and external impact.

[0132] The electrical component assembly (500) may include a relay device, a current sensor, a fuse, a BMS (Battery Management System), an MSD (Manual Service Disconnector), etc. The relay device is a switching component that selectively opens and closes a charging and discharging path through which current flows, and can block the flow of charging and discharging current when an abnormality occurs in the battery pack (20). The BMS refers to a battery management device that controls the overall charging and discharging operation of the battery cells (100), and can be said to be a component typically included in the battery pack (20). In addition, the MSD is a system for selectively cutting off the power of a high-voltage battery by a physical method, and cuts off the power by disconnecting the service plug when necessary.

[0133] This battery assembly (500) can be packaged together with battery cells (100) by a pack housing (300) and a pack cover (600) so as not to be exposed to the outside.

[0134] The pack housing (300) can be said to be a structure that provides a space for storing battery cells (100) and an electrical component assembly (200) inside and is provided with a bracket (332) or a mounting structure (343, 353) so that it can be coupled to the body of a vehicle.

[0135] The pack housing (300) provides mechanical support to the battery modules (100) and the electrical component assembly (500) and protects them from external impacts, etc., and therefore can be manufactured from a metal material with high rigidity.

[0136] The pack housing (300) according to the present embodiment may include a lower frame (310) provided in the form of a wide plate on which battery cells (100) can be mounted, a front frame (320), a rear frame (330), a right side frame (340), and a left side frame (350) that are vertically coupled along the edge of the lower frame (310) to form a wall. In addition, the pack housing (300) may further include a center beam (370) and cross beams (360) to define a space on which the battery cells (100) can be mounted. One end of the center beam (370) may be coupled to the front frame (320) and the other end may be coupled to the rear frame (330). In some embodiments, one end of the cross beam (360) may be coupled to the center beam (370) and the other end may be coupled to the right side frame (340) or the left side frame (350). In some embodiments, the crossbeam (360) may extend across the center beam (370) and have one end coupled to the right side frame (340) and the other end coupled to the left side frame (350).

[0137] In some embodiments, the lower frame (310), the front frame (320), the rear frame (330), the right side frame (340), the left side frame (350), and the cross beam (360) may each be an aluminum extrusion structure, and the pack housing (300) may be formed by welding and / or bolting the frames.

[0138] For example, by manufacturing the frames by extruding aluminum with a mixture of empty spaces and ribs inside and welding them to form the pack housing (300), the weight of the pack housing (300) can be reduced and the mechanical rigidity can have reliability exceeding the required level.

[0139] In some embodiments, a heat sink may be further provided within the pack housing (300). The heat sink may be provided in the form of a plate having a flow path therein to absorb and discharge heat from another object through thermal contact. In some embodiments, the lower frame (310) may include an inlet port (410a) through which cooling water may be introduced, an outlet port (410b) through which cooling water may be discharged, and a cooling water channel through which cooling water may flow.

[0140] The battery cells (100) may be electrically connected by inter-bus bars (510, 520, 530). The inter-bus bars may include a first inter-bus bar (510) that electrically connects battery modules arranged 2x2 along a first direction (e.g., X-axis direction) and a second direction (e.g., Y-axis direction). In some embodiments, the first inter-bus bar (510) may be provided at a position where the center beam (370) and the cross beam (360) intersect.

[0141] Additionally, the inter-busbars may include a second inter-busbar (520) that electrically connects the electrically connected battery cells (100) to an external load or charging system. The second inter-busbar (520) need not be directly connected to the external load or charging system, and may be connected to the external load or charging system through the electrical equipment assembly (500).

[0142] The above battery cells (100) may include a first group of battery cells (100A) positioned on one side of the center beam (370) and a second group of battery cells (100B) positioned on the other side. The inter-bus bars may include a third inter-bus bar (530) electrically connecting the first group of battery cells (100A) and the second group of battery cells (100B).

[0143]

[0144] While the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Therefore, modifications to future embodiments of the present invention will not depart from the scope of the invention.

[0145]

[0146] <Explanation of symbols>

[0147] 1: Battery pack

[0148] 10: Battery assembly

[0149] 100: Battery cells

[0150] 110: Electrode assembly

[0151] 111: Unit battery

[0152] 120: Multi-function terminal block

[0153] 122: MTB Housing

[0154] 124: Electrode terminal section

[0155] 130: Cell Case

[0156] 200: Thermal barrier for secondary batteries

[0157] 210: Metal enclosure

[0158] 220: Cooling insulation material

[0159] 230: Metal support

[0160] 231: Plate 1

[0161] 231a: Panel 1

[0162] 231b: Closing groove

[0163] 231c: Edge

[0164] 231d: Extension of the fastener

[0165] 231e: Middle extension

[0166] 232: Second Plate

[0167] 232a: Panel 2

[0168] 232b: Extension of the connection

[0169] 232c: Middle extension

[0170] 232d: Connection groove

[0171] 232e: Edge

[0172] 233: Reception space

[0173] 240: Packaging Pouch

[0174] 241: First Pouch Section

[0175] 242: Second Pouch Section

Claims

1. Metal enclosure with internal space; Cooling insulation provided inside the above metal enclosure; a metal support accommodating the metal enclosure; and A packaging pouch surrounding the above metal support; Includes, The metal support includes a first plate and a second plate, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery in which the metal enclosure is accommodated between the first plate and the second plate.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first plate and the above second plate, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery, characterized in that one side of the above metal enclosure is fitted to each other.

3. In paragraph 2, The above first plate and the above second plate, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery, characterized in that the other side of the metal enclosure is fitted to each other.

4. In paragraph 1, The first plate is, It includes a first panel portion and fastening grooves provided at both ends of the panel portion, The above second plate, Panel 2, A fastening extension provided on both ends of the second panel portion, and Includes an intermediate extension portion connecting the second panel portion and the fastening extension portion, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery, characterized in that the above-mentioned fastening extension is fitted into the above-mentioned fastening groove.

5. In paragraph 4, The above first plate, Including the edge part, The above edge portion is a portion in which at least one portion of each end of the first plate is bent, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery, characterized in that the above fastening groove is formed in the edge portion and is a groove that opens inwardly of the first panel portion.

6. In paragraph 5, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery, characterized in that the fastening grooves provided on both ends of the first plate are opened in a direction facing each other.

7. In paragraph 4, The above intermediate extension is, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery, characterized in that it extends obliquely between the second panel portion and the fastening extension portion.

8. In paragraph 1, The first plate is, A first panel portion, and a fastening groove provided on one side of the panel portion, The above second plate, Panel 2, A fastening extension provided on one side of the second panel portion, and Includes an intermediate extension portion connecting the second panel portion and the fastening extension portion, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery, characterized in that the above-mentioned fastening extension is fitted into the above-mentioned fastening groove.

9. In paragraph 8, The above first plate, Including the edge part, The above edge portion is a portion where the end of the first plate is bent, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery, characterized in that the above fastening groove is formed in the edge portion and is a groove that opens inwardly of the first panel portion.

10. In paragraph 8, The above intermediate extension is, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery, characterized in that it extends obliquely between the second panel portion and the fastening extension portion.

11. In paragraph 1, The above metal enclosure, A thermal barrier for a secondary battery characterized by being made of copper foil.

12. In paragraph 1, The above metal support is, A thermal barrier for secondary batteries characterized by being a SUS plate.

13. A plurality of battery cells stacked in the first direction; and At least one thermal barrier for a secondary battery of the first aspect provided between the plurality of battery cells; Battery pack containing.

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