Battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack comprising: multiple battery cells; and a pack case which has multiple accommodation spaces configured to separately accommodate the multiple battery cells, a venting portion provided in at least one of the multiple accommodation spaces and configured to discharge a venting gas discharged from the battery cells to the outside of the accommodation space, and a venting flow path configured to communicate with the venting portion.

Description

Battery pack and vehicle including same

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

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0159747, filed on November 17, 2023, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated by reference into this application.

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

[0004] Commonly used secondary batteries today include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Furthermore, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery module or pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery module or pack can vary depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] Meanwhile, since battery cells undergo chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance can deteriorate if used in environments above their optimal temperature. Furthermore, if thermal control fails to maintain optimal temperatures, there's a constant risk of unexpected fire or explosion. Therefore, if a thermal event, such as thermal runaway, occurs within the battery pack, the high-temperature gases or flames emitted from the battery cells contained within could spread to adjacent battery modules, potentially triggering a chain reaction of battery module explosions, posing a significant risk.

[0006] Therefore, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, there is a need to develop a structure that can prevent or suppress the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules by minimizing the thermal energy received by adjacent battery modules.

[0007] In addition, when a thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, there is a need to develop a structure that can quickly discharge high-temperature gases or flames generated in the battery module to the outside of the battery pack, thereby relieving heat accumulation inside the battery pack.

[0008] Accordingly, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack that can prevent or suppress the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules by minimizing the thermal energy received by adjacent battery modules when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module.

[0009] In addition, another problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to provide a vehicle including such a battery pack.

[0010] However, the problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0011] To solve the above problem, the present invention includes a pack case in which a plurality of battery cells are formed; and a plurality of accommodation spaces configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells in a divided manner, at least one of the plurality of accommodation spaces is provided with a venting portion configured to discharge venting gas discharged from the battery cells to the outside of the accommodation space, and a venting path configured to communicate with the venting portion is formed.

[0012] The pack case is configured to partition the plurality of receiving spaces and includes a cross beam in which the venting path is formed, and the venting portion can be provided on the cross beam.

[0013] The module case may further include a module case configured to accommodate battery cells provided in each of the above-described accommodation spaces, and having a venting hole formed on one surface facing the venting portion so that the venting gas is discharged to the outside.

[0014] The venting path may further include a movable member provided inside the venting path to partition the venting path and configured to be at least partially movable by the venting gas.

[0015] When the above-mentioned moving member is moved by the above-mentioned venting gas, the volume of the above-mentioned venting path may be configured to expand.

[0016] The above movable member may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is elastically deformed by the venting gas.

[0017] It may further include an opening / closing member configured to cover the venting portion and configured to open the venting portion by the venting gas or heat.

[0018] The above opening / closing member may include a cover plate configured to cover the venting portion and configured to be rotatable by the venting gas, and a hinge portion coupled to the cover plate.

[0019] The above opening / closing member may be configured to be melted by the heat.

[0020] The pack case is configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and includes a base frame in which the venting path is formed, and the venting portion can be provided on the base frame.

[0021] The pack case is configured to partition the plurality of receiving spaces and includes a cross beam configured to be spaced apart from the battery cells by a predetermined distance, and the venting portion may be provided between the battery cells and the cross beam.

[0022] The pack case may further include an upper cover configured to be open at the top and configured to be coupled to the open upper portion of the pack case to seal each receiving space.

[0023] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, the thermal energy received by adjacent battery modules can be minimized. This prevents or suppresses the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0025] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, high-temperature gas or flames generated in each battery module can be individually discharged to the outside of the battery pack, thereby minimizing heat transfer to other battery modules.

[0026] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, high-temperature gas or flames, etc. can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery pack, so that heat accumulation inside the battery pack can be eliminated.

[0027] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, events resulting from thermal runaway of a device equipped with a battery pack, such as fire or explosion, can be prevented or delayed.

[0028] In addition, the present invention may have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment configuration, or an explanation of effects that can be easily inferred by a person skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0029] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention, and together with the detailed description of the invention described below, serve to further understand the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, it may be a drawing showing the cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a battery pack to which a movable member is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining an embodiment in which the movable member moves when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack of FIG. 5.

[0036] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining another embodiment in which the movable member moves when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack of FIG. 5.

[0037] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a battery pack to which an opening / closing member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0038] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining that the opening / closing member opens when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack of FIG. 8.

[0039] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a battery pack to which an opening / closing member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining that the opening / closing member opens when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack of FIG. 10.

[0041] Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the opening / closing member applied to the battery pack of Fig. 10.

[0042] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0044] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0045] Furthermore, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar components will be omitted, and the differences will be described.

[0046] Meanwhile, in the present invention, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used, but it is obvious to those skilled in the art that these terms are only for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the location of the target object or the location of the observer.

[0047] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean a front-back direction, the Y-axis direction may mean a left-right direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on a horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction may mean an up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0048]

[0049] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, it may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0050] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (100) and a pack case (200).

[0051] First, referring primarily to FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be included. Although not illustrated in the drawing, the plurality of battery cells (100) may include an electrode assembly, a cell case accommodating the electrode assembly, and electrode leads connected to the electrode assembly and extending outward from the cell case to function as electrode terminals. In this case, the plurality of battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0052] The battery cell (100) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The cell case of such a pouch-type secondary battery may be configured in a pouch shape in which a metal layer made of aluminum is interposed between polymer layers.

[0053] A plurality of battery cells (100) can be arranged in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and in a front-back direction (X-axis direction) as shown in FIG. 2.

[0054] Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the battery cell (100), and various battery cells (100) known at the time of filing of the present invention may be employed to construct the battery pack (20) of the present invention. In this embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery having a high energy density and easy stacking is targeted as shown in the drawing, but it goes without saying that a cylindrical or square secondary battery may be applied as the battery cell (100).

[0055] The pack case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The pack case (200) may be formed with a plurality of accommodation spaces (S) configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells in a divided manner. The accommodation spaces (S) are empty spaces and may be provided in a shape capable of accommodating a predetermined number of divided battery cells (100) therein. Specifically, the accommodation spaces (S) may be provided in a shape capable of accommodating battery cells (100) therein through a cross beam (230) described below.

[0056] The pack case (200) may be made of a material that can ensure mechanical strength, such as metal or plastic, such as steel or SUS, or may include such a material, in order to safely protect the battery cells (100) contained therein.

[0057] The pack case (200) may include a venting portion (H). The venting portion (H) may be configured to allow venting gas discharged from the battery cell (100) to be discharged outside the receiving space (S). A plurality of venting portions (H) may be provided. The venting portion (H) may be provided in at least one of the plurality of receiving spaces.

[0058] Additionally, the pack case (200) may include a venting path (P). The venting path (P) may refer to a passage through which venting gas or the like flows. The venting path (P) may be configured to communicate with a venting section (H). The venting path (P) may be configured to communicate with a receiving space (S) through the venting section (H).

[0059] The venting euro (P) may be formed inside the pack case (200). Here, the inside of the pack case (200) may mean a predetermined space separately provided inside the pack case (200), or may mean a hollow space formed in a plurality of beams or plates forming the pack case (200), as illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0060] Accordingly, the venting part (H) can be configured so that the venting gas generated in each accommodation space (S) flows into the venting path (P) formed inside the pack case (200). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when thermal runaway of the battery cell (100) occurs, high-temperature gas or flames generated in each accommodation space (S) can be individually discharged to the outside, so that heat propagation to the battery cells (100) provided in other accommodation spaces (S) can be minimized. That is, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs in a certain accommodation space (S), it can be prevented from affecting other accommodation spaces (S). Accordingly, thermal runaway propagation within the battery pack (20) can be prevented or suppressed, so that the safety and reliability of the battery pack (20) can be guaranteed.

[0061] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas, etc. generated in the battery cell (100) can be quickly discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) by flowing into the venting path (P) through the venting portion (H). Accordingly, heat accumulation inside the battery pack (20) can be eliminated.

[0062]

[0063] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the pack case (200) may include a base frame (210) and a plurality of side frames (220).

[0064] The base frame (210) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The base frame (210) may form the lower surface of the pack case (200) and may be provided in the shape of a square plate. In addition, the base frame (210) may be provided with a flat upper surface so that the module case (120) may be stably accommodated therein.

[0065] A plurality of side frames (220) may be provided to extend upward from each corner of the base frame (210). The plurality of side frames (220) may be provided to surround a plurality of battery cells (100). More specifically, the plurality of side frames (220) may be provided as a right wall located at the -Y direction side end of the base frame (210), a rear wall located at the +X direction side end, a left wall located at the +Y direction side end, and a front wall located at the -X direction side end, respectively, to form a side surface of the pack case (200).

[0066] Meanwhile, at least one or more of the plurality of battery cells (100) may be modularized into a plurality of battery modules (10). The plurality of battery modules (10) may be adjacently arranged in the front-back direction and / or the left-right direction along a plurality of rows. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the plurality of battery modules (10) may be arranged in four rows along the front-back direction (X-axis direction) and in two rows along the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0067] In addition, referring to FIG. 2, the pack case (200) may include a center beam (240). The center beam (240) may be provided to connect the side frames (220) that face each other among a plurality of side frames (220). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, at least one of the center beams (240) may be provided to extend in the left-right direction and connect the right wall and the left wall among the side frames (220).

[0068] Additionally, the center beam (240) may be configured to partition between a plurality of battery modules (10) arranged in multiple rows. For example, the center beam (240) may be provided between battery modules (10) arranged in two rows in the left-right direction. Accordingly, the plurality of battery modules (10) may be provided spaced apart by the center beam (240).

[0069] Additionally, the pack case (200) may include a cross beam (230). The cross beam (230) may be configured to partition a plurality of receiving spaces (S).

[0070] A plurality of cross beams (230) may be provided. The cross beams (230) may be provided to connect the side frames (220) and the center beam (240). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the cross beams (230) may be provided to connect the left and right walls of the side frames (220) and the center beam (240), respectively. Accordingly, the cross beams (230) may be provided between a plurality of battery modules (10) arranged in four rows along the front-rear direction to partition the battery modules (10).

[0071] At this time, the cross beam (230) may be provided to protrude upwards from the battery cell (100). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cross beam (230) is configured to extend upwards from the battery cell (100), the adjacent receiving space (S) is reliably separated by the cross beam (230), thereby preventing heat propagation.

[0072] A venting path (P) may be formed inside the cross beam (230). The venting path (P) of the cross beam (230) may be provided to communicate with at least one receiving space (S). In addition, a venting portion (H) may also be provided on the cross beam (230). In particular, the venting portion (H) may be formed on a side of the cross beam (230) facing the battery module (10). A plurality of venting portions (H) may be provided on one cross beam (230). Accordingly, venting gas, etc. generated from the battery cell (100) may directly move to the venting path (P) formed inside the cross beam (230) through the venting portion (H) provided on the cross beam (230).

[0073] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the pack case (200) may include a discharge unit (250). The discharge unit (250) may be configured to discharge gas generated from battery cells (100) stored inside to the outside of the pack case (200). When venting gas is generated inside the pack case (200) and the internal pressure increases, the discharge unit (250) may be configured to open due to the pressure of the venting gas to discharge the venting gas to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0074] For example, the discharge portion (250) may be configured to open and close depending on the internal pressure within the pack case (200). Alternatively, the discharge portion (250) may be configured in the form of a hole. Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the discharge portion (250), and various discharge portions (250) known at the time of filing of the present invention may be employed to configure the battery pack (20) of the present invention.

[0075] Specifically, the discharge unit (250) may be provided on the side of the pack case (200), i.e., the side frame (220). The discharge unit (250) may be configured to discharge gas generated from the battery cells (100) housed inside the pack case (200) to the outside of the pack case (200). For example, the venting gas of the venting path (P) may be configured to be discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the discharge unit (250).

[0076] Meanwhile, a plurality of discharge units (250) may be provided. The discharge unit (250) may be provided in at least one side frame (220) among a plurality of side frames (220). The discharge units (250) may be separately formed in two or more side frames (220), or two or more may be formed in one side frame (220).

[0077] Meanwhile, the number and location of the discharge unit (250) described based on the embodiment of Fig. 2 are merely examples, and can be changed to various other numbers and locations.

[0078]

[0079] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be modularized into one or more battery modules (10). That is, a battery pack (20) according to the present invention includes a plurality of battery modules (10), and a plurality of battery cells (100) included in the battery pack (20) may be divided and included in a plurality of battery modules (10). At this time, a plurality of battery cells (100) included in a battery module (10) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0081] A plurality of battery modules (10) may be individually provided in each accommodation space (S) of a pack case (200). In particular, a battery pack (20) according to the present invention may include a module case (11). The module case (11) may be configured to have an empty space formed therein so as to accommodate at least some of a plurality of battery cells (100) in the internal space. In particular, the module case (11) may be configured to accommodate the battery cells (100) provided in each accommodation space (S). That is, the module case (11) may be included in each accommodation space (S), group the plurality of battery cells (100) into several battery modules (10), and may serve as a boundary that physically limits the internal space of each battery module (10).

[0082] Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, the battery module (10) may include a busbar assembly and / or module terminals electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (100) housed therein.

[0083] The battery module (10) may include a venting hole (12). The venting hole (12) may be configured to allow gas generated from a battery cell (100) housed inside the module case (11) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (11).

[0084] Specifically, a venting hole (12) may be provided in the module case (11) to enable directional venting in a specific direction. In particular, the venting hole (12) may be provided on one side of the module case (11) facing the venting portion (H). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, when the venting portion (H) is provided in the cross beam (230), the venting hole (12) may be provided on the side of the module case (11) facing the cross beam (230). Accordingly, venting gas or the like may be induced to move directly toward the venting portion (H).

[0085] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas, etc. discharged from the venting hole (12) facing the venting portion (H) can directly move to the venting path (P) formed in the pack case (200), so the venting gas, etc. can be discharged to the outside of the receiving space (S) more quickly.

[0086]

[0087] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of a battery pack to which a movable member is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining an embodiment in which the movable member moves when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack of FIG. 5. In addition, FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining another embodiment in which the movable member moves when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack of FIG. 5.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, a battery pack (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a movable member (300). The movable member (300) may be provided inside the venting path (P). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the movable member (300) may be provided on a cross beam (230).

[0089] At this time, the movable member (300) may be configured to partition the venting path (P). The movable member (300) may be configured to partition the venting path (P) in a horizontal or vertical direction. Accordingly, the venting path (P) may be separated and partitioned into a plurality of sections. The partitioned venting paths (P) may be configured so that venting gas or the like does not communicate between them. To this end, the length of the movable member (300) may be configured to correspond to the height or width of the venting path (P).

[0090] The movable member (300) may be configured to be at least partially movable by the venting gas. The movable member (300) may be configured to be entirely movable, or a portion of the movable member (300) may be configured to be movable.

[0091] The movable member (300) can move in the direction in which the venting gas moves. Specifically, the movable member (300) can be configured to move toward the venting member (H) provided in the adjacent receiving space (S) (the left receiving space in FIG. 5) by the pressurized force of the venting gas introduced through the venting member (H) provided in the receiving space (S) (the right receiving space in FIG. 5) where the thermal event occurs.

[0092] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, when the movable member (300) moves by the venting gas, the volume of the venting passage (P) may be configured to expand. Here, the expansion of the volume of the venting passage (P) may mean that the volume of the venting passage (P) provided on the side of the receiving space (S) where the event occurred among the venting passages (P) partitioned by the movable member (300) expands.

[0093] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the volume of the venting passage (P) through which the venting gas can flow is increased, so that more venting gas can flow in the venting passage (P). As a result, the venting gas and the like can be discharged more quickly and smoothly through the venting passage (P).

[0094] As an example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the movable member (300) may include a partition member configured in a plate shape and an elastic member connected to the partition member. The partition member may be formed of a material having heat resistance and / or fire resistance. The partition member may be configured to be movable in at least one direction by a venting gas while partitioning the venting path (P). At this time, the elastic member may be configured to control the movement operation of the partition member. That is, the partition member may be configured to be moved by the elastic force of the elastic member.

[0095] In another embodiment, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the movable member (300) may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is elastically deformed by the venting gas. At this time, both ends of the movable member (300) may be configured to be fixed to the pack case (200), such as the cross beam (230). In addition, the movable member (300) may be provided with a pad having elasticity, etc. According to the above embodiment, when the venting gas flows into the venting path (P) through the venting portion (H), the central portion of the movable member (300) is elastically deformed by the pressure of the venting gas, so that the movable member (300) can move in at least one direction.

[0096]

[0097] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a battery pack to which an opening / closing member is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining that the opening / closing member is opened when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack of FIG. 8.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a battery pack (20) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an opening / closing member (400). The opening / closing member (400) may be configured to cover a venting portion (H). In addition, the opening / closing member (400) may be configured to open the venting portion (H) by venting gas or heat generated when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100). The opening / closing member (400) may be provided in a pack case (200) in which a venting path (P) is formed. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the opening / closing member (400) may be provided on at least one side of the cross beam (230).

[0099] As an example, referring to FIG. 8, the opening / closing member (400) may include a cover plate (401a) and a hinge portion (401b).

[0100] Specifically, the cover plate (401a) may be configured to cover the venting portion (H). The cover plate (401a) may be provided on the pack case (200). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the cover plate (401a) may be provided on the cross beam (230). At this time, the cover plate (401a) may be rotatably coupled by the venting gas. Accordingly, the cover plate (401a) may be configured to open or close the interior of the receiving space (S) depending on the pressure exerted by the venting gas due to thermal runaway of the battery cell (100).

[0101] The cover plate (401a) can be rotatably coupled to the venting portion (H) via a hinge portion (401b). The hinge portion (401b) can be coupled to the cover plate (401a). Although not illustrated in detail, the hinge portion (401b) can be configured to include an elastic body to control the rotational motion of the cover plate (401a). As an example, the elastic body can be a hinge spring.

[0102] Specifically, the cover plate (401a) can maintain the closed state of the venting portion (H) by the elastic force of the elastic body provided in the hinge portion (401b) in a state where the thermal runaway phenomenon of the battery cell (100) does not occur.

[0103] On the other hand, the cover plate (401a) may be configured to open toward the venting path (P) to discharge venting gas and / or flame to the outside of the receiving space (S) when the pressure within the receiving space (S) rises above the reference pressure due to thermal runaway of the battery cell (100). In this way, when the pressure within the receiving space (S) is above the reference pressure, it may mean that the pressure within the receiving space (S) is greater than the pressure of the venting path (P) due to the generation of venting gas. In this case, the pressurizing force of the air within the receiving space (S) applied to the cover plate (401a) by the venting gas may be higher than the elastic force of the hinge portion (401b) that attempts to maintain the closed state of the cover plate (401a).

[0104] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a receiving space (S), the cover plate (401a) is opened by the pressure of the venting gas, so that the venting gas can be quickly discharged to the outside of the receiving space (S) through the venting portion (H).

[0105] When the cover plate (401a) is opened by the pressure of the venting gas, the cover plate (401a) may be configured to open at an acute angle with respect to the venting portion (H). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas, etc. discharged from the inside of the receiving space (S) due to thermal runaway of the battery cell (100) can be discharged to the venting path (P) along the inner surface of the cover plate (401a) arranged at an angle with respect to the venting portion (H). Accordingly, the flow of the venting gas, etc. in the direction of the venting path (P) can be more reliably guided.

[0106] In addition, the cover plate (401a) may be configured to open only in one direction. At this time, the one direction may be defined as a direction toward the inside of the venting path (P). More specifically, the cover plates (401a) provided in each venting portion (H) may be configured to open only in a direction toward the inside of the venting path (P). Accordingly, the direction in which the cover plate (401a) provided in the venting portion (H) on the side of the receiving space (S) where the thermal event occurs is opened may be configured to be opposite to the direction in which the cover plate (401a) provided in the venting portion (H) on the side of the adjacent receiving space (S) is opened.

[0107] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting portion (H) provided in the receiving space (S) where a thermal event has occurred and the venting portion (H) provided in another receiving space (S) can be prevented from being opened simultaneously. As a result, the safety of the battery pack (10) can be enhanced by suppressing the movement of venting gas or heat to the battery cell (100) provided in the other receiving space (S).

[0108] Moreover, the cover plate (401a) may be configured to close the receiving space (S) when the venting gas is discharged to the outside and the pressure within the receiving space (S) drops below the reference pressure. In this case, when the pressure within the receiving space (S) is below the reference pressure, it may mean that the venting gas is discharged to the outside and the pressure within the receiving space (S) is lower than the pressure of the venting passage (P). In this case, not only the pressing force of the venting passage (P) applied to the cover plate (401a) but also the elastic force of the hinge portion (401b) that tries to maintain the closed state of the cover plate (401a) may be added. Therefore, when the venting gas is discharged to the outside and the pressure within the receiving space (S) decreases, the cover plate (401a) can be smoothly driven in the outward direction of the venting passage (P) by the pressure difference between the inside of the receiving space (S) and the venting passage (P), thereby closing the receiving space (S).

[0109] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when the amount of venting gas discharged is reduced, the cover plate (401a) facilitates the closing of the receiving space (S), thereby reliably blocking the backflow of venting gas and / or flame into the receiving space (S). In addition, by blocking the inflow of oxygen into the receiving space (S), additional ignition within the receiving space (S) can be suppressed.

[0110]

[0111] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a battery pack to which an opening / closing member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining that the opening / closing member is opened when a thermal event occurs in the battery pack of FIG. 10, and FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the opening / closing member applied to the battery pack of FIG. 10.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, an opening / closing member (400) according to another embodiment of the present invention may be configured to be melted by heat.

[0113] Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the opening / closing member (400) can maintain the closed state of the venting portion (H) when the thermal runaway phenomenon of the battery cell (100) does not occur. On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the opening / closing member (400) can be melted by direct heat such as high-temperature venting gas and / or flame generated inside the receiving space (S) due to the thermal runaway of the battery cell (100), thereby opening the venting portion (H). Accordingly, the venting gas and / or flame can be configured to be discharged toward the venting path (P).

[0114] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a certain receiving space (S), the opening / closing member (400) is easily melted by the heat of the venting gas and / or flame, etc., and the venting part (H) is opened, thereby allowing the venting gas to be quickly discharged to the outside of the receiving space (S). In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting part (H) provided in another adjacent receiving space (S) can be maintained in a closed state without the opening / closing member (400) melting, thereby preventing heat diffusion.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 12, the opening / closing member (400) may include a sealing portion (402a) and a cover portion (402b). More specifically, a venting portion (H) is provided on at least one side of the receiving space (S), and the venting portion (H) may be sealed by inserting the sealing portion (402a) into the venting portion (H). Accordingly, the closed state of the venting portion (H) can be reliably maintained without causing a thermal event such as thermal runaway.

[0116] In addition, the cover part (402b) may be provided on one side of the sealing part (402a), i.e., on the outside of the venting passage (P). The cover part (402b) may be configured to cover the sealing part (402a). The cover part (402b) may be connected to the pack case (200) by bolting or welding. Thus, by providing the cover part (402b), even if an external impact or vibration occurs, the sealing part (402a) is prevented from being easily separated from the venting part (H), and the sealing part (402a) can be protected.

[0117] As an example, the venting path (P) may be formed in the base frame (210). That is, the venting path (P) may be formed at the bottom of the battery cells (100). In this case, a venting portion (H) may also be provided in the base frame (210). The venting portion (H) may be configured to communicate with the venting path (P) formed in the base frame (210). Accordingly, the receiving space (S) may be communicated with the venting path (P) formed at the bottom of the battery cells (100) through the venting portion (H).

[0118] At this time, a mounting portion may be formed on the side of the base frame (210) where the venting portion (H) is provided so that the sealing portion (402a) is mounted. The mounting portion may be configured to prevent the sealing portion (402a) from falling into the lower venting path (P) due to gravity. As a result, the sealing portion (402a) can stably seal the venting portion (H) by being mounted on the mounting portion.

[0119] Meanwhile, the cross beam (230) may be configured to be spaced apart from the battery cell (100) by a predetermined distance. At this time, the venting portion (H) may be provided between the battery cell (100) and the cross beam (230). That is, a venting path (P) may be formed in the base frame (210), and the venting portion (H) may be provided in the space formed between the battery cell (100) and the cross beam (230) in the base frame (210).

[0120] In this case, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the cover portion (402b) may be configured to protrude upward from the base frame (210). That is, the cover portion (402b) may be provided between the battery cell (100) and the cross beam (230). In addition, the cover portion (402b) may be provided in contact with the battery cell (100) and the cross beam (230). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell (100) and the cross beam (230) may be configured not to move in the horizontal direction by the cover portion (402b). Accordingly, movement of the battery cells (100) may be prevented even when an external shock or vibration occurs.

[0121]

[0122] Meanwhile, referring back to FIGS. 1 to 3, the pack case (200) may be configured to have an open upper portion. The battery pack (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an upper cover (500) coupled to the open upper portion of the pack case (200). The upper cover (500) may be configured to seal each receiving space (S). The upper cover (500) may be configured to be folded to correspond to the structure of the pack case (200). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the upper cover (500) may be configured such that a portion provided on the upper portion of the cross beam (230) is folded to correspond to the shapes of the battery cells (100) and the cross beam (230).

[0123] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the upper cover (500) is configured to seal each receiving space (S), thermal damage suffered by battery cells (100) provided in adjacent receiving spaces (S) when a thermal event occurs can be minimized. As a result, the safety of the battery pack (20) can be secured.

[0124]

[0125] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 13, a vehicle (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (30) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (30) includes a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheel vehicle. The vehicle (30) may operate by receiving power from the battery pack (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0127]

[0128] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations can be made within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims to be described below by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. A plurality of battery cells; and A battery pack characterized by including a pack case in which a plurality of accommodation spaces configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells are formed, a venting portion configured to allow venting gas discharged from the battery cells to be discharged to the outside of the accommodation space is provided in at least one of the plurality of accommodation spaces, and a venting path configured to be communicated with the venting portion is formed.

2. In paragraph 1, The above pack case is It is configured to partition the above-mentioned plurality of accommodation spaces and includes a cross beam in which the venting path is formed in the internal space, A battery pack characterized in that the above-mentioned venting portion is provided on the cross beam.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that it further includes a module case configured to accommodate battery cells provided in each of the above-described accommodation spaces, and in which a venting hole is formed on one surface facing the venting portion so that the venting gas is discharged to the outside.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that it further includes a movable member provided inside the venting path to partition the venting path and configured to be at least partially movable by the venting gas.

5. In paragraph 4, A battery pack characterized in that the volume of the venting path is expanded when the movable member is moved by the venting gas.

6. In paragraph 4, A battery pack, wherein at least a portion of the movable member is configured to be elastically deformed by the venting gas.

7. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that it further includes an opening / closing member configured to cover the venting portion and configured to open the venting portion by the venting gas or heat.

8. In paragraph 7, The above opening and closing member A cover plate configured to cover the above venting portion and configured to be rotatable by the venting gas; A battery pack characterized by including a hinge portion coupled to the cover plate.

9. In paragraph 7, A battery pack, characterized in that the opening / closing member is configured to melt by the heat.

10. In paragraph 1, The above pack case is A base frame configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having the venting path formed therein, A battery pack characterized in that the above venting part is provided on the base frame.

11. In paragraph 10, The above pack case is It comprises a cross beam configured to partition the plurality of receiving spaces and configured to be spaced apart from the battery cells at a predetermined distance, A battery pack, characterized in that the venting portion is provided between the battery cell and the cross beam.

12. In paragraph 11, The above pack case is configured so that the top is open, A battery pack further comprising an upper cover coupled to the open upper portion of the pack case to seal each of the receiving spaces.

13. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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