Battery module

Abstract

A battery module is disclosed. The battery module comprises: a module housing having an accommodation space formed therein and an open upper side; a top plate installed to cover the upper side of the module housing; a plurality of battery cells stacked in the accommodation space of the module housing; and at least one thermal barrier which is interposed between one or more battery cells, is connected to the top plate, and is deformed while being connected to the top plate when opening the top plate so as to block the flame from propagating to neighboring battery cells.

Description

battery module

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0132715, dated October 5, 2023, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0134095, dated October 2, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery module capable of suppressing flame propagation within the battery module even when the top plate is deformed when a thermal runaway occurs.

[0003] Secondary batteries typically contain a cathode, anode, and an electrolyte, and generate electrical energy through chemical reactions. Their use is steadily increasing due to their ability to be recharged and discharged. Among these secondary batteries, lithium secondary batteries boast a high energy density per unit weight, making them widely used as power sources for electronic communication devices and as power sources for high-power hybrid and electric vehicles.

[0004] In terms of the shape of these secondary batteries, there is an increasing demand for square battery cells and pouch-type battery cells that can be applied to products such as mobile phones due to their thin thickness. In terms of battery cell materials, there is an increasing demand for lithium battery cells (130), such as lithium-ion batteries and lithium-ion polymer batteries with high energy density, discharge voltage, and output stability.

[0005] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these battery cells is approximately 2.5 V to 4.2 V. If a higher output voltage is required, a battery module is configured by connecting multiple battery cells in series. A battery package is configured by connecting multiple battery modules connected in series. In addition, a battery package is configured by connecting multiple battery cells (130) in parallel according to the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery package. Accordingly, the number of battery cells and the electrical connection structure of the battery package can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] The above battery module may not effectively dissipate heat generated during the charging and discharging process. In this case, heat accumulation may occur in the battery module, leading to deterioration of the battery module. If deterioration of the battery module accelerates, thermal runaway or explosion of the battery module may occur. The battery module installs insulation panels between multiple battery cells to delay heat transfer and thermal runaway between adjacent battery cells. The insulation panels are manufactured in a square shape so as to adhere closely to the sides of the battery cells (130).

[0007] The battery module described above may have its top plate deformed or opened by strong pressure when a flame occurs. This creates a space between the deformed top plate and the battery cell blocks, allowing flames and heat to escape from the battery module through the venting holes and to migrate within the module through the space beneath the top plate. Furthermore, if flames and heat migrate within the battery module, it may be difficult to delay ignition of adjacent battery cells.

[0008] The background technology of the present invention is disclosed in Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 2021-0098331 (published on August 10, 2021).

[0009] The present invention has been devised to solve the above-described problem, and aims to provide a battery module that can be deformed while a thermal barrier is attached to the top plate when the top plate is deformed.

[0010] The present invention aims to provide a battery module capable of preventing flame and heat from moving from inside the battery module to adjacent battery cells.

[0011] The present invention aims to provide a battery module capable of delaying thermal runaway time when a flame occurs in the battery module.

[0012] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a battery module that can prevent a banding portion of a thermal barrier from blocking a venting hole portion.

[0013] The present invention aims to provide a battery module capable of preventing a banding portion from sagging downward and rubbing against a pouch of a battery cell.

[0014] The technical objectives of the present invention are not limited to the aforementioned purposes. Other unmentioned objectives and advantages of the present invention can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objectives and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0015] A battery module includes: a module housing having a receiving space formed therein and having an open upper side; a top plate installed to cover the upper side of the module housing; a plurality of battery cells stacked in the receiving space of the module housing; and one or more thermal barriers interposed between at least one battery cell.

[0016] In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides a thermal barrier to the top plate so that when the top plate is opened, it is transformed into a state connected to the top plate, thereby blocking flames from moving toward neighboring battery cells.

[0017] The thermal barrier may include an insulating pad interposed between the plurality of battery cells and spaced apart from the top plate; and an insulating sheet laminated on the insulating pad, extending upward of the insulating pad so as to be attached to the top plate, and deforming while maintaining a state of being attached to the top plate when the top plate is opened.

[0018] The above insulating sheet can be formed in a curved shape in the section between the above insulating pad and the above top plate.

[0019] The above insulating sheet may include a flat sheet portion attached to at least one of both sides of the insulating pad; and a banding portion formed in a curved shape in a section between the upper side of the insulating pad and the top plate, and attached to the top plate.

[0020] The above banding portion can be formed in an N shape.

[0021] The above banding portion can be formed in a zigzag shape in the vertical direction.

[0022] The above banding portion can be formed in a round N shape.

[0023] The above banding portion may be positioned vertically above the above insulating pad.

[0024] The width of the above banding portion can be formed within a predetermined range with the thickness of the above thermal barrier.

[0025] A plurality of venting holes are formed in the top plate, and the banding portion can be connected to a portion of the top plate that avoids the venting holes.

[0026] A plurality of venting holes are formed in the top plate, and the venting holes can be formed between adjacent thermal barriers in the top plate.

[0027] The plurality of battery cells are stacked in the width direction of the module housing, and the insulating sheet can shield the width direction of the module housing to prevent flames from moving in the width direction of the module housing.

[0028] The connection structure between the thermal barrier and the top plate may include attachment. Preferably, the attachment may be achieved using double-sided tape.

[0029] The connection structure between the thermal barrier and the top plate may include a connector. Preferably, the connector may include a fastening component such as a screw, rivet, or bolt.

[0030] The connection structure between the thermal barrier and the top plate may include a connection guide connected to two or more thermal barriers and connected to the top plate. Preferably, the connection guide may be a rigid member.

[0031] The above thermal barrier may be connected to the bottom surface of the top plate. Preferably, the connection portion of the thermal barrier may face the bottom surface of the top plate.

[0032] The thermal barrier may be connected to the upper surface of the top plate. Preferably, the thermal barrier passes through the top plate, and the connection portion of the thermal barrier may face the upper surface of the top plate. The thermal barrier may pass through the top plate and face the upper surface of the top plate.

[0033] According to the present invention, even if the top plate is bent or deformed upward by strong pressure, the thermal barrier can be deformed while remaining attached to the top plate without being separated from the top plate.

[0034] According to the present invention, since the thermal barrier is attached to the deformed top plate and still blocks the space underneath the top plate, flames and heat within the battery module can be prevented from moving toward adjacent battery cells. Accordingly, the thermal runaway time in the event of a flame occurring in the battery module can be delayed.

[0035] According to the present invention, since the insulating sheet is formed with a length of allowance greater than the deformation amount of the top plate, the insulating sheet can be prevented from falling off or separating from the top plate even if the top plate is deformed by flame and gas pressure.

[0036] According to the present invention, since the banding portion is attached to a portion of the top plate that avoids the venting hole portion, the banding portion can be prevented from blocking the venting hole portion.

[0037] According to the present invention, since the banding portion is positioned vertically above the insulating pad, even if the banding portion sags downward and rubs against the upper portion of the insulating pad, it is possible to prevent the banding portion from rubbing against the pouch of the battery cell.

[0038] According to the present invention, the thermal barrier can be firmly fixed to the top plate through a simple connection structure, making manufacturing easy.

[0039] In addition to the effects described above, specific effects of the present invention are described below while explaining specific details for carrying out the invention.

[0040] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a state in which a battery module according to the present invention is cut in the width direction.

[0042] Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a thermal barrier of a battery module according to the present invention.

[0043] Figure 4 is an enlarged view schematically illustrating a state in which the banding portion of the thermal barrier according to the present invention is attached while avoiding the venting hole portion in the top plate.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a state in which the banding portion of the thermal barrier is deformed to a state in which it is joined to the top plate when the top plate according to the present invention is deformed.

[0045] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of a banding portion of a thermal barrier according to the present invention.

[0046] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of a banding portion of a thermal barrier according to the present invention.

[0047] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing a process of connecting a banding portion of a thermal barrier according to the present invention to a top plate through a connecting guide.

[0048] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the connection guide of Fig. 8 placed between the banding portions of the thermal barrier.

[0049] Figure 10 is a side cross-sectional view of Figure 9.

[0050] Figure 11 shows a state in which the upper part of the banding part in Figure 10 is bent and fixed to the connecting guide.

[0051] Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing the process of assembling the top plate in the state of Fig. 11.

[0052] Fig. 13 is a side cross-sectional view showing a state in which the module housing is covered with the top plate of Fig. 12 and the banding portion is fixed to the top plate by the barrier connecting portion.

[0053] Fig. 14 is a side cross-sectional view showing the state in which the module housing is covered with the top plate of Fig. 12, and the plate connection part and the top plate are connected and fixed with a connector.

[0054] Figure 15 is a perspective view showing a process of connecting the banding portion of the thermal barrier according to the present invention to the top plate in another way.

[0055] Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing a state in which the module housing is covered with the top plate of Fig. 15, and the banding portion of the thermal barrier protrudes through the slit of the top plate and above the top plate.

[0056] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a state in which the banding portion protruding from the top plate in Figure 16 is bent laterally and fixed to the upper surface of the top plate.

[0057] Figure 18 is a side cross-sectional view of Figure 17.

[0058] [Explanation of symbols]

[0059] 100: Battery module, 110: Module housing, 112: Terminal, 120: Top plate, 121: Slit, 122: Venting hole, 123: Part avoiding the venting hole, 130: Battery cell, 140: Thermal barrier, 141: Insulating pad, 143: Insulating sheet, 144: Flat sheet, 145,146,147: Bending part, 160: Connection guide, 161: Barrier connection part, 162: Plate connection part, 170: Connector, W1, W2, W3: Width of the bending part

[0060] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0061] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various forms and with various modifications. However, these embodiments are provided to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included within the technical spirit and scope of the present invention, as well as substitutions or additions of the components of one embodiment with those of another embodiment.

[0062] The attached drawings are merely intended to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and should not be construed as limiting the technical ideas disclosed in this specification, but should be understood to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention. In the drawings, the components may be expressed in exaggerated sizes or thicknesses for ease of understanding, but the scope of protection of the present invention should not be construed as being limited thereby.

[0063] The terminology used in this specification is only used to describe specific implementations or examples and is not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, the singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In the specification, terms such as "comprises" and "consists of" are intended to indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification. In other words, it should be understood that terms such as "comprises" and "consists of" in the specification do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0064] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0065] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0066] When a component is referred to as being "above" or "below" another component, it should be understood that it is not only positioned directly above that other component, but that there may also be other components present in between.

[0067] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0068] Hereinafter, a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0069] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a state in which the battery module according to the present invention is cut in the width direction, FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a thermal barrier of the battery module according to the present invention, FIG. 4 is an enlarged view schematically illustrating a state in which a bending portion of a thermal barrier according to the present invention is attached while avoiding a venting hole portion in a top plate, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a state in which a bending portion of a thermal barrier is deformed to a state in which it is joined to a top plate when the top plate according to the present invention is deformed.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a battery module (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a module housing (110), a top plate (120), a plurality of battery cells (130), and one or more thermal barriers (140).

[0071] The module housing (110) has an internal storage space and an open upper portion. The module housing (110) is formed of a thermally conductive material, such as aluminum, so as to dissipate heat generated from a plurality of battery cells (130). The module housing (110) may include a frame having open front and rear sides and an upper side, and an end plate coupled to the front and rear sides of the frame.

[0072] The top plate (120) is installed to cover the upper side of the module housing (110). The top plate (120) is formed of a thermally conductive material such as aluminum. A plurality of venting holes (122) are formed in the top plate (120). Flames or gases generated inside the module housing (110) can be discharged to the outside through the venting holes (122). The venting holes (122) are positioned at a position facing the battery cells (130) (vertically upward). The venting holes (122) can be formed in a long hole shape parallel to the longitudinal direction of the battery cells (130). Accordingly, when flames or heat are generated in the battery cells (130), the flames or heat can rise and be discharged through the venting holes (122).

[0073] A plurality of battery cells (130) are stacked in the receiving space of the module housing (110). For example, the plurality of battery cells (130) may be stacked in parallel with the longitudinal direction of the module housing (110) and in the width direction of the module housing (110).

[0074] Battery cells (130) are stacked in multiples along one direction. The battery cells (130) are pouch-type battery cells in which an electrode stack (not shown) is accommodated inside the pouch.

[0075] The pouch includes a metal film layer, a resin outer layer laminated on the outer surface of the metal film layer, and an insulating layer laminated on the inner surface of the metal film layer. The metal film layer may include aluminum foil or copper film, etc. The resin outer layer may be made of nylon or polyethylene terephthalate, which have excellent mechanical strength to provide protection from the outside. The insulating layer has thermal bonding properties and acts as an adhesive, and may be made of polypropylene, polyolefin, C-PP (cast polypropylene), methacrylate, etc.

[0076] The battery cell (130) is formed by sequentially stacking a cathode, a separator, and anode. Furthermore, an electrolyte is contained within the battery cell (130). Electrode leads protrude from both sides of the battery cell (130), and a plurality of electrode leads (113) are connected to a bus bar (not shown). Of course, electrode leads of different polarities may be connected to one longitudinal side of the battery cell (130) so as to protrude.

[0077] A thermal barrier (140) may be interposed between each of one or more battery cells (130). The thermal barrier (140) is attached to the top plate (120), and when the top plate (120) is deformed, it is deformed to remain attached to the top plate (120) and blocks flames from moving toward the neighboring battery cell (130). At least one thermal barrier (140) may be installed inside the module housing (110).

[0078] When a flame occurs in some of the battery cells (130), some of the heat and flame may be discharged to the outside of the battery module (100) through the venting hole (122). In addition, the gas pressure inside the battery module (100) may push the top plate (120) upward and deform it. When the top plate (120) is bent or deformed upward due to strong pressure, the thermal barrier (140) is deformed while attached to the top plate (120) when the top plate (120) is opened. At this time, since the thermal barrier (140) is still attached to the deformed top plate (120) and blocks the lower space of the top plate (120), the flame and heat may be prevented from moving to the neighboring battery cells (130). Accordingly, the thermal runaway time when a flame occurs in the battery module (100) may be delayed.

[0079] The thermal barrier (140) may include an insulating pad (141) and an insulating sheet (143).

[0080] An insulating pad (141) is interposed between a plurality of battery cells (130) and is installed spaced apart from the top plate (120). The insulating pad (141) may be formed to have a height and length that are substantially corresponding to the battery cells (130). This insulating pad (141) serves to block heat transfer from adjacent battery cells (130).

[0081] The insulating sheet (143) surrounds the outer surface of the insulating pad (141) and extends upwardly from the insulating pad (141) so as to be attached to the top plate (120). The insulating sheet (143) is deformed while remaining attached to the top plate (120) when the top plate (120) is opened. For example, the insulating sheet (143) may have a surplus length (surplus) greater than the deformation amount of the top plate (120). Accordingly, even if the top plate (120) is deformed by flame and gas pressure, the insulating sheet (143) can be prevented from falling off or separating from the top plate (120). That is, even if the top plate (120) is deformed to move away from the thermal barrier (140), the insulating sheet (143) can maintain a state of blocking the lower space of the top plate (120). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent flames and heat generated in a specific battery cell (130) from being transferred to neighboring battery cells (130).

[0082] A plurality of battery cells (130) are stacked in the width direction of the module housing (110). The insulating sheet (143) shields the width direction of the module housing (110) to prevent flames from moving in the width direction of the module housing (110).

[0083] The insulating pad (141) may be formed of a flexible material so as to be deformed by the tensile force of the top plate (120). The insulating pad (141) may include at least one of silicone, polyurethane, and aerogel.

[0084] Polyurethane foam is a porous polymer compound formed from carbon dioxide gas through a gelling reaction and a blowing reaction. Since polyurethane foam is formed from carbon dioxide and a porous structure, it can significantly reduce the load of the insulating pad (141) while improving insulation efficiency. In addition, the physical properties of polyurethane foam are hardly changed by heat generated from the battery cell (130).

[0085] Aerogel is a porous nanostructure obtained by replacing the liquid within the gel structure with air while maintaining the gel structure. Aerogel is composed of nanoparticles with a size of 1-50 nm. Furthermore, since aerogel is composed of approximately 99.8% air and silicon dioxide (SiO2) with a particle size of 1 / 10,000 nm, it is remarkably lightweight and has remarkably excellent insulation properties. Such an aerogel insulation pad (141) can significantly reduce the load while improving insulation efficiency. Furthermore, since aerogel is composed of air and silicon dioxide, it can minimize changes in physical properties or deformation due to heat generated from a battery cell (130).

[0086] The insulating sheet (143) can be manufactured as a flame resistance barrier sheet. The flame resistance barrier sheet is flexible and flame retardant. Accordingly, the insulating sheet (143) is hardly damaged by flame and can be deformed according to the amount of deformation of the top plate (120).

[0087] The insulating sheet (143) may be formed in a curved shape in the section between the insulating pad (141) and the top plate (120). Accordingly, when the top plate (120) is deformed and tensile force is applied to the insulating sheet (143), the curved portion unfolds. Consequently, the insulating sheet (143) can remain attached to the top plate (120).

[0088] The insulating sheet (143) may include a flat sheet portion (144) and a banding portion (145).

[0089] The flat sheet portion (144) is attached to both sides of the insulating pad (141). The flat sheet portion (144) may be formed as a single sheet so as to be attached simultaneously to both sides of the insulating pad (141). In addition, the insulating sheet (143) may be formed as two sheets so as to be attached respectively to both sides of the insulating pad (141).

[0090] The banding portion (145) is formed in a curved shape in the section between the upper side of the insulating pad (141) and the top plate (120) and is attached to the top plate (120). That is, the banding portion (145) is a portion that does not face the insulating pad (141). This banding portion (145) has a slack length greater than the deformation amount of the top plate (120).

[0091] A plurality of venting holes (122) are formed in the top plate (120), and the banding part (145) can be attached to a portion of the top plate (120) that avoids the venting holes (122). Accordingly, the banding part (145) can be prevented from blocking the venting holes (122).

[0092] A plurality of venting holes (122) are formed in the top plate (120), and the venting holes (122) are formed between adjacent thermal barriers (140) in the top plate (120). Accordingly, the venting holes (122) can be positioned in an extended upward direction of the battery cell (130). Consequently, when the battery cell (130) ignites, flames and heat can be smoothly and quickly discharged to the outside of the top plate (120).

[0093] The above-mentioned bending portion (145) may be formed in an N shape. At this time, the bending portion (145) is bent at least 2 to 3 times to form an acute angle, and has a form in which the portion attached to the top plate (120) is arranged vertically above the insulating pad (141). This is because a venting hole (122) is formed vertically above the battery cell (130), but no venting hole (122) is formed vertically above the thermal barrier (140). Accordingly, the attachment portion of the bending portion (145) can be prevented from blocking the venting hole (122). In addition, the number of bendings of the bending portion (145) is sufficient so that the bending portion (145) remains loose when the top plate (120) is deformed.

[0094] The width (W1) of the banding portion (145) can be formed within a certain deviation range from the thickness of the thermal barrier (140). That is, the width (W1) of the banding portion (145) can be formed within a range that is equal to or nearly equal to the thickness of the thermal barrier (140). This is to prevent the banding portion (145) from sagging downward due to external impact or vibration and from rubbing against the pouch of the battery cell (130). By preventing the banding portion (145) from rubbing against the pouch, damage to the pouch can be prevented.

[0095] The banding portion (145) can be positioned vertically above the insulating pad (141). Accordingly, even if the banding portion (145) sags downward and rubs against the upper portion of the insulating pad (141), it can prevent the pouch of the battery cell (130) from rubbing against it. Accordingly, damage to the battery cell can be prevented.

[0096] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of a banding portion of a thermal barrier according to the present invention.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 6, the insulating sheet (143) may include a flat sheet portion (144) and a banding portion (146).

[0098] Since the flat sheet portion (144) is substantially the same as described above, it is given the same drawing number and its description is omitted.

[0099] The bending portion (146) is formed in a zigzag shape in the vertical direction. For example, the bending portion (146) may be formed in a shape that is alternately bent to the right and left. This bending portion (146) is also bent two to three times at an acute angle, and the portion attached to the top plate (120) is positioned vertically upward. This is because a venting hole portion (122) is formed vertically upward of the battery cell (130), but no venting hole portion (122) is formed vertically upward of the thermal barrier (140). Accordingly, the attachment portion of the bending portion (146) can be prevented from blocking the venting hole portion (122). In addition, the number of bendings of the bending portion (146) is sufficient so that the bending portion (146) remains loose when the top plate (120) is deformed.

[0100] The width (W2) of the banding portion (146) can be formed within a certain range (micro range) with the thickness of the thermal barrier (140). That is, the width (W2) of the banding portion (146) can be formed within a range that is equal to or nearly equal to the thickness of the thermal barrier (140). This is to prevent the banding portion (146) from sagging downward due to external impact or vibration and from rubbing against the pouch of the battery cell (130). By preventing the banding portion (146) from rubbing against the pouch, damage to the pouch can be prevented.

[0101] The banding portion (146) can be positioned vertically above the insulating pad (141). Accordingly, even if the banding portion (146) sags downward and rubs against the upper portion of the insulating pad, it can prevent the pouch of the battery cell (130) from rubbing against it.

[0102] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of a banding portion of a thermal barrier according to the present invention.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 7, the insulating sheet (143) may include a flat sheet portion (144) and a banding portion (147).

[0104] Since the flat sheet portion (144) is substantially the same as described above, it is given the same drawing number and its description is omitted.

[0105] The bending portion (147) is formed in an N shape that is rounded in the vertical direction. For example, the bending portion (147) may be formed in a curved shape that is alternately rounded in the upper and lower directions. The bending portion (147) is also positioned vertically upward at the portion attached to the top plate (120). This is because the venting hole portion (122) is formed vertically upward of the battery cell (130), but the venting hole portion (122) is not formed vertically upward of the thermal barrier (140). Accordingly, the attachment portion of the bending portion (147) can be prevented from blocking the venting hole portion (122). In addition, the number of bending cycles of the bending portion (147) is sufficient as long as the bending portion (147) remains loose when the top plate (120) is deformed.

[0106] The width (W3) of the banding portion (147) can be formed within a certain deviation range from the thickness of the thermal barrier (140). That is, the width (W3) of the banding portion (147) can be formed within a range that is equal to or nearly equal to the thickness of the thermal barrier (140). This is to prevent the banding portion (147) from sagging downward due to external impact or vibration and from rubbing against the pouch of the battery cell (130). By preventing the banding portion (147) from rubbing against the pouch, damage to the pouch can be prevented.

[0107] The banding portion (147) can be positioned vertically above the insulating pad (141). Accordingly, even if the banding portion (147) sags downward and rubs against the upper portion of the insulating pad (141), it can be prevented from rubbing against the pouch of the battery cell (130).

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 14 below, a first embodiment of a method and structure for connecting a thermal barrier and a top plate of a battery module according to the present invention will be described.

[0109] Referring to Fig. 8, in a state where a stack of battery cells (130) and a thermal barrier (140) is accommodated in a module housing (110), the end of the banding portion (145) of the insulating sheet (143) of the thermal barrier (140) has an upwardly extending posture. In this state, in order to facilitate the process of connecting the insulating sheet (143) to the top plate, a connecting guide (160) that temporarily secures the ends of a plurality of insulating sheets (143) is installed.

[0110] The connection guide (160) has a plurality of barrier connection portions (161) that are respectively connected to the ends of a plurality of insulating sheets (143), and a plate connection portion (162) that integrally connects the plurality of barrier connection portions (161). The barrier connection portions (161) are spaced apart from each other along a direction parallel to the stacking direction of the battery cells (130), and the plate connection portions (162) extend parallel to the stacking direction of the battery cells (130) and connect both ends of the plurality of barrier connection portions (161).

[0111] Next, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, a connection guide (160) is placed on top of a plurality of thermal barriers (140), so that the end of the insulating sheet (143) is adjacent to the barrier connection portion (161) and protrudes upward more than the barrier connection portion (161).

[0112] Next, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the end of the insulating sheet (143) is bent laterally so that the end side of the insulating sheet (143) comes into contact with the upper surface of the barrier connecting portion (161). At this time, the upper surface of the barrier connecting portion (161) and the end side of the insulating sheet (143) can be attached to each other. The attachment method may include interposing an adhesive layer or double-sided tape, or using a separate fixing element such as a screw or rivet, and the fixing method need not be limited thereto.

[0113] In this way, with the connection guide (160) and the plurality of insulation sheets (143) connected, the module housing (110) is covered with a top plate (120) as illustrated in FIG. 12. The connection guide (160) may be made of a material that is resistant to flame and has sufficient rigidity to maintain its shape. Accordingly, with the module housing (110) covered with the top plate (120), the end of the insulation sheet (143) fixed to the connection guide (160) can exactly face the portion (123) that avoids the venting hole portion of the top plate (120), as illustrated in FIG. 13. At this time, the bottom surface of the top plate (120) and the end of the insulation sheet (143) may be additionally attached.

[0114] Additionally, as illustrated in the above-described Figure 14, the plate connection portion (162) of the connection guide (160) can be fixed to the top plate (120). For example, the plate connection portion (162) can be strongly fixed to the top plate (120) through the top plate (120) using a connector (170) such as a bolt. It is obvious that the type of connector (170) need not be limited to a bolt.

[0115] According to this connection structure of the thermal barrier and the top plate, the handling, placement, and fixing of a plurality of thermal barriers (140) can be made easier through the connection guide (160), and the top plate (120) and the thermal barrier (140) can be connected more firmly.

[0116] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 18 below, a second embodiment of a method and structure for connecting a thermal barrier and a top plate of a battery module according to the present invention will be described. The connection structure of the second embodiment differs from the connection structure illustrated in FIG. 2 in that the thermal barrier is connected to the upper surface of the top plate.

[0117] Referring to Fig. 15, in a state where a stack of battery cells (130) and a thermal barrier (140) is accommodated in a module housing (110), the end of the banding portion (145) of the insulating sheet (143) of the thermal barrier (140) has an upwardly extending posture.

[0118] In this state, in order to facilitate the process of connecting the insulating sheet (143) to the top plate, a top plate (120) having a slit (121) formed therein through which the insulating sheet (143) can pass in the vertical direction is employed. The top plate (120) has a plurality of slits (121) in a portion avoiding the venting hole portion (122). The slits (121) are extended thinly and long so that the thermal barrier (140) can pass therethrough.

[0119] In the process of assembling the top plate (120) to the module housing (110), the upper end of the thermal barrier (140) is aligned with the slit (121) and the top plate (120) is brought toward the module housing (110). Then, as illustrated in FIG. 16, the upper end of the thermal barrier (140) penetrates the top plate (120) through the slit (121) and protrudes above the top plate (120).

[0120] Then, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the upper portion of the banding portion (145) protruding from the upper portion of the top plate (120) is bent laterally so that the end side of the insulating sheet (143) comes into contact with the upper surface of the top plate (120). At this time, the upper surface of the top plate (120) and the end side of the insulating sheet (143) can be mutually fixed. The end of the insulating sheet (143) can be attached to the upper surface of the top plate (120) by interposing an adhesive layer or double-sided tape, or by using a separate fixing element such as a screw, a rivet, or the like. However, the fixing method need not be limited thereto.

[0121] The end of the above insulation sheet (143) is attached to a portion (123) that avoids the venting hole portion of the top plate (120).

[0122] According to the connection structure of the thermal barrier and the top plate, the handling, arrangement, and fixing of a plurality of thermal barriers (140) can be made easier simply by forming a slit (121) in the top plate (120) and forming a guide surface around the lower part of the slit (121) of the top plate (120) to guide the thermal barrier to be inserted into the slit (121).

[0123] The first and second embodiments have been described above using the banding portion (145) as an example, but it is of course possible to apply other types of banding portions (146, 147).

[0124] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings exemplified above, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed herein, and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. Furthermore, even if the operational effects according to the configuration of the present invention have not been explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is natural that the effects predictable by the corresponding configuration should also be acknowledged.

Claims

1. A module housing having a receiving space and an open upper side; A top plate installed to cover the upper side of the above module housing; A plurality of battery cells stacked in the receiving space of the above module housing; and A battery module comprising at least one thermal barrier interposed between at least one battery cell, connected to the top plate, and deformed to a state connected to the top plate when the top plate is opened to block flames from moving toward adjacent battery cells.

2. In paragraph 1, The above thermal barrier is, An insulating pad interposed between the plurality of battery cells and spaced apart from the top plate; and A battery module comprising: an insulating sheet laminated on the insulating pad, extending upwardly of the insulating pad so as to be connected to the top plate, and deformed while maintaining a state of being connected to the top plate when the top plate is opened.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery module in which the above insulating sheet is formed in a curved shape in the section between the above insulating pad and the above top plate.

4. In paragraph 2, The above insulation sheet, A flat sheet portion attached to at least one side of the two sides of the above insulating pad; and A battery module comprising a banding portion formed in a curved shape in a section between the upper side of the insulating pad and the top plate and connected to the top plate.

5. In paragraph 4, A battery module wherein the above banding portion is formed in an N shape.

6. In paragraph 4, A battery module in which the above banding portion is formed in a zigzag shape in the vertical direction.

7. In paragraph 4, A battery module in which the above banding portion is formed in a round N shape.

8. In paragraph 4, A battery module wherein the above banding portion is positioned vertically above the above insulating pad.

9. In paragraph 4, A battery module in which the width of the above banding portion is formed within a predetermined range with respect to the thickness of the above thermal barrier.

10. In paragraph 1, A plurality of venting holes are formed in the above top plate, A battery module in which the above-mentioned banding portion is connected to a portion of the top plate that avoids the above-mentioned venting hole portion.

11. In paragraph 1, A plurality of venting holes are formed in the above top plate, A battery module in which the above venting hole portion is formed between adjacent thermal barriers in the top plate.

12. In paragraph 2, The above plurality of battery cells are stacked in the width direction of the module housing, A battery module, wherein the insulating sheet shields the width of the module housing to prevent flames from traveling in the width direction of the module housing.

13. In paragraph 1, The connection structure of the above thermal barrier and the top plate, including attachment, is a battery module.

14. In paragraph 1, The connection structure of the above thermal barrier and the top plate is a battery module including a connector.

15. In paragraph 1, A battery module, wherein the connection structure of the thermal barrier and the top plate includes a connection guide connected to two or more thermal barriers and connected to the top plate.

16. In paragraph 1, The above thermal barrier is connected to the bottom surface of the top plate, the battery module.

17. In paragraph 1, The above thermal barrier is connected to the upper surface of the top plate, the battery module.

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