Battery module and battery pack including same

Abstract

A battery module of the present disclosure comprises: a plurality of battery cells each including a main body part including an electrode assembly therein, a venting part formed to be openable on one surface of the main body part, and a tab part connected to the electrode assembly and protruding to the outside of the main body part in a preset protruding direction; and a support housing supporting the plurality of battery cells and including a contact part which is in contact with at least any one battery cell among the plurality of battery cells, a through hole formed through the contact part, and concave parts recessed from both sides of the contact part in a direction away from the plurality of battery cells.

Description

Battery module and battery pack including same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery module and a battery pack including the same. Specifically, it relates to a battery module including a euro and a battery pack including the same.

[0002] Secondary batteries convert electrical energy into chemical energy, allowing them to be stored and reused multiple times through charging and discharging. Due to their economical and environmentally friendly properties, secondary batteries are widely used across various industries. Lithium secondary batteries, in particular, are widely used in portable devices requiring high energy density, as well as in various industries.

[0003] Lithium secondary batteries operate on an electrochemical redox reaction. That is, electricity is generated through the movement of lithium ions, and the reverse process is used to charge the battery. In lithium secondary batteries, the phenomenon in which lithium ions leave the anode and migrate through the electrolyte and separator to the cathode is called discharging. The reverse process is called charging.

[0004] When rechargeable batteries are used multiple times, internal gas may be generated. This gas must be vented to the outside of the battery. Furthermore, when multiple rechargeable batteries are grouped together to form a battery module or pack, the gas must be quickly vented from within the battery module or pack.

[0005] Another problem that the present disclosure seeks to solve is to quickly and efficiently discharge gas by inducing the venting direction of the gas.

[0006] In addition, another problem that the present disclosure seeks to solve is to provide a battery module and battery pack having improved stability and high energy density by pressurizing a plurality of battery cells.

[0007] In addition, the present disclosure can be widely applied in green technology fields such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and solar and wind power generation using batteries.

[0008] In addition, the present disclosure can be used in eco-friendly electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc. to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0009] The battery module of the present disclosure comprises a main body including an electrode assembly for producing or storing electric energy therein, a venting portion formed openably on one surface of the main body, and a tab portion connected to the electrode assembly and protruding outwardly from the main body along a preset protrusion direction; and a support housing including a contact portion for contacting at least one battery cell among the plurality of battery cells, a through hole formed through the contact portion, and a concave portion recessed in a direction away from the plurality of battery cells on both sides of the contact portion, and supporting the plurality of battery cells.

[0010] The venting portion may include a flow path formed in the contact portion and the concave portion and communicating with the main body portion through the through hole when the venting portion is opened.

[0011] The plurality of battery cells may be stacked along one direction so that the main bodies of two adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells face each other, and the venting portion and the tab portion may be positioned on different surfaces of one surface of the plurality of battery cells that are formed perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are stacked.

[0012] The above through hole can be formed at a position corresponding to the venting portion.

[0013] The above venting portion may be openable based on the internal pressure of the main body portion.

[0014] The above contact portion and the above concave portion can extend along the preset protrusion direction.

[0015] The above support housing may be a corrugated plate.

[0016] A concave portion may be arranged on the outermost side of the support housing along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

[0017] The above support housing includes a plurality of contact portions and a plurality of concave portions, and a contact portion assembly in which the contact portions are grouped in one or more predetermined numbers may be alternately arranged with a concave portion assembly in which the concave portions are grouped in one or more predetermined numbers along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

[0018] A cross-section of the above-described path cut along a direction perpendicular to the above-described protrusion direction may be a polygon.

[0019] The battery pack may further include: a reinforcing member arranged on both sides of the plurality of battery cells along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are stacked; and a bending member that surrounds the plurality of battery cells and connects the reinforcing members to each other.

[0020] The above bending portion can cover one surface from which the tab portions of the plurality of battery cells protrude.

[0021] The above reinforcement part can be joined to the above bending part at the vertex area.

[0022] The above reinforcing portion and the above bending portion can be connected by screw joint.

[0023] The above support housing can be connected to the above reinforcement part.

[0024] The above support housing may include a stainless steel material.

[0025] It may further include a heat conducting portion that covers the upper surface of the plurality of battery cells and transfers heat to the outside.

[0026] The battery pack of the present disclosure includes the battery module of claim 1; and a pack case accommodating the battery module therein.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the present disclosure can quickly and efficiently discharge gas by inducing a venting direction of the gas.

[0028] In addition, a battery module and battery pack with improved stability and high energy density can be provided by pressurizing multiple battery cells.

[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 illustrate a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 5 illustrates a support housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 7 illustrates a support housing according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-section of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate a support housing according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 11 illustrates a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, these are merely exemplary and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described as examples.

[0039] Certain terms used in this specification are for convenience of explanation only and are not intended to limit the illustrated embodiments.

[0040] For example, expressions such as "same" and "same as" not only indicate a strictly identical state, but also indicate a state in which there is a difference in tolerance, or the degree to which the same function is obtained.

[0041] For example, expressions indicating relative or absolute arrangements such as “in which direction,” “along which direction,” “parallel,” “perpendicular,” “centered,” “concentric,” or “coaxial” not only strictly indicate such arrangements, but also indicate a state of relative displacement with an angle or distance that allows for tolerance, or the degree to which the same function is obtained.

[0042] In order to explain the present disclosure, the following description is based on a spatial orthogonal coordinate system with mutually orthogonal X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. Each axis direction (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction) means both directions in which each axis extends.

[0043] The X-direction, Y-direction, and Z-direction mentioned below are for the purpose of explanation so that the present disclosure can be clearly understood, and it is of course possible to define each direction differently depending on where the standard is set.

[0044] The use of terms such as "first," "second," and "third" before the components mentioned below is intended solely to avoid confusion regarding the components they refer to, and has no bearing on the order, importance, or dominant-subordinate relationship between the components. For example, an invention can be implemented that includes only a second component without a first component.

[0045] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0046] FIG. 1 illustrates a battery cell (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] The battery cell (100) described herein refers to a secondary battery that can be repeatedly used by charging and discharging electrical energy. For example, it may refer to a lithium secondary battery or a lithium ion battery, but is not limited thereto. As another example, it may refer to an all-solid-state battery.

[0048] The battery cell (100) may be classified into a pouch-type secondary battery, a prismatic secondary battery, or a cylindrical secondary battery depending on its shape. In this specification, a prismatic secondary battery is illustrated as an example for convenience of explanation, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0049] Meanwhile, the battery module (200) described in this specification refers to a battery assembly in which battery cells (100) are grouped in groups of one or more and placed in a case to protect them from external shock, heat, vibration, etc. and to have high output and high capacity characteristics.

[0050] Meanwhile, the battery pack (300) described in this specification refers to a battery assembly that groups one or more battery cells (100) or battery modules (200).

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the battery module (200) of the present disclosure includes a main body (101) that includes an electrode assembly (not shown) that produces or stores electric energy therein, a venting portion (103) that is openably formed on one surface of the main body (101) and a tab portion (102) that is connected to the electrode assembly and protrudes outward from the main body (101) along a preset protrusion direction, a support housing (110) that includes a contact portion (111) that contacts at least one battery cell (100) among the plurality of battery cells (100), a through hole (112) formed by penetrating the contact portion (111), and a concave portion (113) that is recessed in a direction away from the plurality of battery cells (100) on both sides of the contact portion (111), and supports the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0052] In the embodiment, the venting portion (103) may be connected to the main body portion (101) through the through hole (112) when opened, and may include a flow path (120) formed in the contact portion (111) and the concave portion (113).

[0053] A plurality of battery cells (100) may be stacked along one direction. For example, referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the battery cells (100) may be stacked along the Y direction. This allows the maximum number of battery cells (100) to be included within a given volume of the battery module (200), thereby improving the energy density of the battery module (200).

[0054] Each of the plurality of battery cells (100) may include a main body (101) that stores and supplies electric energy, a venting portion (103) that is formed to be openable on one surface of the main body (101), and a tab portion (102) that is connected to an electrode assembly and protrudes outward from the main body (101) along a preset protrusion direction.

[0055] The main body (101) may include a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The positive electrode may include a positive electrode active material into which lithium ions can be inserted or removed. The negative electrode may include a negative electrode active material into which lithium ions can be inserted or removed. The battery cell (100) may further include a separator to prevent electrical short-circuiting between the positive electrode and the negative electrode and to allow ion flow.

[0056] In one embodiment, a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator may be stacked to form an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly may be classified into a stacking type, a winding type, a stack-folding type, and a Z-stack type depending on the method by which the positive electrode, negative electrode, and separator are stacked. The battery cell (100) of the present disclosure is not limited to any one stacking method and may include electrode assemblies stacked in various ways.

[0057] The positive electrode and the negative electrode may each include a current collector. The positive electrode may include a positive current collector, and the negative electrode may include a negative current collector. The current collector may include a known conductive material that does not cause a chemical reaction within a lithium secondary battery. For example, the current collector may include any one of stainless steel, nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), and alloys thereof, and may be provided in various forms such as a film, a sheet, or a foil.

[0058] The positive electrode and the negative electrode may include active materials. The positive electrode may include a positive electrode active material, and the negative electrode may include a negative electrode active material. The positive electrode active material and the negative electrode active material may each be a material into which lithium ions can be inserted and deintercalated. For example, the positive electrode active material may be a lithium metal oxide, and the negative electrode active material may be a carbon-based material such as crystalline carbon, amorphous carbon, a carbon composite, or carbon fiber, a lithium alloy, silicon (Si), or tin (Sn).

[0059] Additionally, the positive and negative electrodes may further include a binder and a conductive material, respectively, to improve mechanical stability and electrical conductivity.

[0060] The separator can be configured to prevent electrical short-circuiting between the anode and cathode and to allow ion flow. The type of separator is not particularly limited, but may include a porous polymer film. For example, the separator may include a porous polymer film or a porous nonwoven fabric.

[0061] The electrolyte may include an electrolyte. The electrolyte may be a non-aqueous electrolyte. The electrolyte may include a lithium salt and an organic solvent. The electrolyte may further include an additive. The additive may form a film on the positive or negative electrode through a chemical reaction within the battery. For example, an anode interface film may be formed on the positive electrode, and an anode interface film may be formed on the negative electrode.

[0062] The tab portion (102) may be connected to the electrode assembly and may protrude outward from the main body portion (101) along a preset protrusion direction. The tab portion (102) may electrically connect the main body portion (101) to the outside. The tab portion (102) may include a positive electrode tab (102) connected to the positive electrode and a negative electrode tab (102) connected to the negative electrode.

[0063] The positive electrode tab (102) and the negative electrode tab (102) may be provided on opposite sides of the main body (101), respectively. Referring to Fig. 1, the positive electrode tab (102) may be provided on one side of the main body (101), and the negative electrode tab (102) may be provided on the other side opposite to the one side.

[0064] The battery cell (100) may include a venting portion (103) that is openably formed on one surface of the main body (101). The venting portion (103) may discharge gas generated inside the main body (101) to the outside. The venting portion (103) may be formed in one area of ​​the main body (101), and the inside and the outside of the main body (101) may be connected to each other by the venting portion (103). In other words, the gas may be discharged to the outside of the main body (101) through the venting portion (103).

[0065] If gas is not discharged from the battery cell (100) and remains inside the battery cell (100), the internal pressure of the battery cell (100) increases, which may lead to an explosion or fire of the battery cell (100). Therefore, a venting portion (103) must be formed on one side of the battery cell (100) to efficiently discharge the gas.

[0066] In one embodiment, the venting portion (103) may be opened when the internal pressure of the main body portion (101) increases. In other words, the venting portion (103) may be closed immediately after being manufactured. The main body portion (101) may be charged, discharged, and used repeatedly, and the internal pressure of the main body portion (101) may increase due to the gas generated during this process. When the internal pressure reaches a critical point that the venting portion (103) cannot withstand, the venting portion (103) may be opened to discharge the gas. Consequently, the venting portion (103) may be openable based on the internal pressure of the main body portion (101).

[0067] In order for the venting portion (103) to be opened, the venting portion (103) may be formed to have relatively weaker rigidity than the adjacent area. For example, the thickness of the venting portion (103) may be formed to be thinner than the thickness of the adjacent area, or the materials of the venting portion (103) and the adjacent area may be different from each other. Alternatively, a groove may be formed in the venting portion (103). The groove allows the venting portion (103) to be more easily opened than the adjacent area by sensitively reflecting pressure. The venting portion (103) is not limited to the above-described contents and may be formed by a known method or have a known configuration.

[0068] Meanwhile, a plurality of battery cells (100) are stacked along one direction so that the main body parts (101) of two adjacent battery cells (100) among the plurality of battery cells (100) face each other, and the venting part (103) and the tab part (102) can be respectively positioned on different surfaces formed perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of battery cells (100) are stacked among one surface of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0069] The venting portion (103) and the tab portion (102) may be positioned on different surfaces of the main body portion (101). In one embodiment, the surface on which the venting portion (103) is formed and the surface on which the tab portion (102) is formed may be perpendicular to each other. Preferably, referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the venting portion (103) included in each of the plurality of battery cells (100) may be formed so that the venting portion (103) faces downward.

[0070] Ultimately, when multiple battery cells (100) are stacked, the tab portion (102) formed on the multiple battery cells (100) can face the +X direction and the -X direction, and the vent portion (103) can face the -Z direction.

[0071] The battery module (200) of the present disclosure may further include a busbar assembly (150). The busbar assembly (150) may electrically connect a plurality of battery cells (100). The plurality of battery cells (100) may be connected to each other in series and / or in parallel. To this end, the busbar assembly (150) may contact each tab portion (102) of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0072] The busbar assembly (150) may further include a busbar (152) electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells (100) and a busbar plate (151) connected to the busbar (152) and supporting the busbar (152). The busbar plate (151) may extend along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells (100) are stacked. The busbar plate (151) may be formed of an insulating material.

[0073] The busbar (152) can be combined with the busbar plate (151). A plurality of busbars (152) can be provided. The plurality of busbars (152) can be respectively connected to a battery cell assembly in which a plurality of battery cells (100) are bundled in a preset number. Through this, the plurality of battery cells (100) can be electrically connected in series and / or in parallel.

[0074] In addition, a plurality of bus bars (152) may be spaced apart at regular intervals so as not to come into contact with each other and may be respectively coupled to the bus bar plate (151). As a result, referring to FIG. 1, the bus bar plate (151) may extend along the Y direction, and a plurality of bus bars (152) may be respectively coupled to the bus bar plate (151) along the Y direction.

[0075] One side of the busbar plate (151) can face a plurality of battery cells (100), and a plurality of busbars (152) can be combined on the other side opposite to the one side.

[0076] The battery module (200) of the present disclosure may further include a sensing unit (160). The sensing unit (160) may obtain information on at least one battery cell (100) among a plurality of battery cells (100). The information on the battery cell (100) may refer to electrical information on the battery cell (100). For example, the information on the battery cell (100) may refer to voltage, current, and state of charge (SOC) of the battery cell (100).

[0077] The battery module (200) of the present disclosure may further include a control unit (not shown). The control unit may control the battery cell (100) based on information about the battery cell (100). The control unit may control the battery cell (100) to maximize the performance of the battery module (200) and use it efficiently. For example, the control unit may control the charging and discharging of the battery cell (100) or adjust the voltage difference between the battery cells (100) through cell balancing.

[0078] In one embodiment, the control unit can control the battery module (200) based on information obtained from the sensing unit (160). The control unit may be a battery management system.

[0079] Meanwhile, the sensing unit (160) may be electrically connected to the busbar assembly (150) to obtain information on the battery cell (100). In an embodiment, the sensing unit (160) may be connected to each of a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, in one embodiment, the sensing unit (160) may include a sensing substrate (161) and a sensor (162). The sensing substrate (161) may extend along the direction in which the bus bar plate (151) extends and may be positioned on top of the bus bar plate (151). The sensing substrate (161) may be a flexible plastic circuit board.

[0081] A plurality of sensors (162) may be provided. A plurality of sensors (162) may connect a sensing substrate (161) and a plurality of bus bars (152).

[0082] In another embodiment, the sensing unit (160) may be located only on one side of the battery module (200). The sensing unit (160) may not be located on each side where the two tabs of the battery cell (100) are located, but may be located only on one side of the two. To this end, the sensing unit (160) may measure the voltage of the tab portion (102) of one of the battery cells (100) and the voltage of the outer material that accommodates the main body portion (101) of the battery cell (100).

[0083] Meanwhile, the sensing unit (160) may further include a connector (170). The connector (170) may communicate information acquired from the sensing unit (160) to the outside. The connector (170) may employ any known technology used for transmitting and receiving information. Without being limited thereto, the connector (170) may be provided separately from the sensing unit (160).

[0084] The battery module (200) of the present disclosure further includes a support housing (110). The support housing (110) can support a plurality of battery cells (100). To this end, the support housing (110) can be positioned below the plurality of battery cells (100). Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the support housing (110) can be positioned below the plurality of battery cells (100) in the Z direction.

[0085] In one embodiment, the battery module (200) may include a module housing. The module housing may accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100) therein. The module housing may protect the plurality of battery cells (100) from external shock, pressure, vibration, or heat. The module housing may group the plurality of battery cells (100) to form a single unit.

[0086] The support housing (110) may be a component of the module housing. In other words, the support housing (110) may be connected to other components to form a housing space that accommodates multiple battery cells (100). Thus, the support housing (110) may protect the multiple battery cells (100). Referring to FIG. 2, the support housing (110) may particularly protect the lower surfaces of the multiple battery cells (100).

[0087] The support housing (110) may be made of a material that has high mechanical strength along with fire resistance and heat resistance. The support housing (110) may include a stainless steel material. For example, the support housing (110) may be manufactured using SUS304 material. The support housing (110) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 to 10.

[0088] The battery module (200) may further include a reinforcing member (130) and a bending member (140). The reinforcing members (130) may be arranged on both sides of the plurality of battery cells (100) along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells (100) are stacked. For example, referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, a pair of reinforcing members (130) may be arranged on the outer sides of each of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0089] The reinforcing member (130) may be a component of the module housing. In one embodiment, the support housing (110) may be connected to the reinforcing member (130). The support housing (110) and the reinforcing member (130) may be connected to form an internal receiving space. The support housing (110) and the reinforcing member (130) may form one side of the receiving space.

[0090] The reinforcing member (130) may be manufactured from a material with high mechanical strength. The reinforcing member (130) may be formed into a flat plate shape to uniformly pressurize a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0091] The bending portion (140) can surround a plurality of battery cells (100) and connect the reinforcing portions (130) arranged on both sides of the plurality of battery cells (100) to each other. The bending portion (140) can connect the reinforcing portions (130) to each other so that the plurality of battery cells (100) are pressed toward the center. To this end, the bending portion (140) can extend along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells (100) are stacked.

[0092] The bending portion (140) can cover one surface from which the tab portions (102) of the plurality of battery cells (100) protrude. The bending portions (140) can be positioned on both surfaces from which the tab portions (102) protrude. A plurality of bending portions (140) can be provided. Through this, the energy density of the battery module (200) can be improved. Furthermore, the upper surface of the battery module (200) can be provided flat.

[0093] In an embodiment, the bending portion (140) may include a bending body (141) and a fixing hole (not shown). Both ends of the bending body (141) may be bent. The bent ends may efficiently pressurize a plurality of battery cells (100). The fixing holes may be provided at both ends of the bending body (141).

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, one end of the bending portion (140) may be connected to one of the reinforcing portions (130) arranged on both sides, and the other end of the bending portion (140) may be connected to another reinforcing portion (130). The bending body (141) may extend along the Y direction to wrap a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0095] One end of the bending portion (140) and the other end of the bending portion (140) may be positioned outside the reinforcing portion (130) along the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells (100). In other words, the bending portion (140) may press the reinforcing portion (130) from the outside of the reinforcing portion (130).

[0096] The reinforcing member (130) can be combined with the bending member (140) at the vertex area. The vertex area of ​​the reinforcing member (130) refers to the area where two corners of the reinforcing member (130) meet. In an embodiment, two bending members (140) can be arranged on each of the two sides of the plurality of battery cells (100). Four bending members (140) can be combined with the reinforcing member (130) at the vertex area of ​​the reinforcing member (130).

[0097] In the embodiment, the reinforcing portion (130) and the bending portion (140) may be connected by screw coupling. For this purpose, the reinforcing portion (130) may include an insertion hole (131 in FIG. 2) formed by penetrating therethrough. The bending portion (140) may include a fixing hole formed by penetrating a portion of the bending body (141). When the reinforcing portion (130) and the bending portion (140) are connected, the insertion hole (131) and the fixing hole may be formed at positions corresponding to each other.

[0098] For example, referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the insertion hole (131) and the fixing hole can be formed at corresponding positions along the Y direction. The reinforcing portion (130) and the bending portion (140) can be joined by a joining means (400). For example, the joining means (400) can be a bolt and a nut.

[0099] Without being limited thereto, the reinforcing member (130) and the bending member (140) may be connected by any known technique as long as they can be stably connected. For example, a fastening groove may be formed in the reinforcing member (130) and the bending member (140) may be fastened to the fastening groove and connected, or the reinforcing member (130) and the bending member (140) may be connected by snap-fitting.

[0100] FIG. 5 illustrates a support housing (110) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section of a battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery module (200) may have a venting portion (103) positioned at the bottom along the Z direction. Gas may be discharged downward through the venting portion (103). Gas discharged from one battery cell (100) may affect another adjacent battery cell (100). For example, a closed venting portion (103) may be opened due to gas pressure.

[0102] Therefore, it is necessary to minimize the impact of gas discharged from one battery cell (100) on an adjacent battery cell (100). The battery module (200) of the present disclosure can induce gas to be discharged along a preset path.

[0103] To this end, the support housing (110) may include a contact portion (111) that contacts at least one battery cell (100) among a plurality of battery cells (100), a through hole (112) formed by penetrating the contact portion (111), and a concave portion (113) that is sunken in a direction away from the plurality of battery cells (100) on both sides of the contact portion (111). When the venting portion (103) is opened, it communicates with the main body (101) through the through hole (112), and gas can move through the flow path (120) formed in the contact portion (111) and the concave portion (113).

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the contact portion (111) can be in contact with a surface of the main body (101) facing the -Z direction. The contact portion (111) can be in contact with a surface of the main body (101) facing downward along the Z direction. Preferably, the contact portion (111) can be in contact with a surface of the main body (101) on which a venting portion (103) is formed. Through this, the contact portion (111) can support the battery cell (100).

[0105] The contact portion (111) can be extended along a preset protrusion direction. Referring to FIG. 5, the preset protrusion direction is the X direction, and the contact portion (111) can be extended along the X direction. Through this, the contact portion (111) is extended along the direction in which the battery cell (100) is extended, so that the contact area with the battery cell (100) increases, and the battery cell (100) can be stably supported.

[0106] In addition, a plurality of contact portions (111) may be provided. The contact portions (111) may be arranged along the direction in which the battery cells (100) are stacked. Consequently, a plurality of contact portions (111) extending along a preset protrusion direction may be arranged at preset intervals along the direction in which the battery cells (100) are stacked.

[0107] The through hole (112) may be formed at a position corresponding to the venting portion (103). Referring to FIG. 6, a battery cell (100) may be placed on the upper portion of the support housing (110), and the venting portion (103) and the through hole (112) may correspond along the Z direction. Through this, the gas of the main body (101) may be discharged through the venting portion (103) and then move to the flow path (120) through the through hole (112).

[0108] The concave portion (113) may be sunken in a direction away from the plurality of battery cells (100) on both sides of the contact portion (111). The direction away from the battery cells (100) may be a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells (100) are stacked and the preset protrusion direction. Referring to Fig. 5, the direction away from the battery cells (100) refers to the -Z direction. The concave portion (113) may be sunken to form a space through which gas can move.

[0109] The concave portion (113) may include a support portion (1131) and an inclined portion (1132). The support portion (1131) may contact an external component of the support housing (110) to support the support housing (110). The support portion (1131) may be provided as a flat plate. The support portion (1131) may extend along a preset protrusion direction. The support portion (1131) may extend along the X direction.

[0110] The support portion (1131) may be formed parallel to the contact portion (111). This allows the support housing (110) to stably support the battery cell (100). The support portion (1131) may be provided in multiple pieces. The multiple support portions (1131) may be arranged at preset intervals along the direction in which the multiple battery cells (100) are stacked.

[0111] The inclined portion (1132) can connect the support portion (1131) and the contact portion (111). The inclined portion (1132) can extend along a preset protrusion direction. The inclined portion (1132) can be provided in multiple pieces. The multiple inclined portions (1132) can be arranged at preset intervals along the direction in which the multiple battery cells (100) are stacked.

[0112] The support portion (1131) and the inclined portion (1132) may form an acute angle, a vertical angle, or an obtuse angle. The shapes of the support portion (1131) and the inclined portion (1132) are described in detail with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0113] Finally, the support housing (110) includes a plurality of contact portions (111) and a plurality of recessed portions (113), and a contact portion assembly (1110) in which the contact portions (111) are grouped in one or more predetermined numbers, and a recessed portion assembly (1130) in which the recessed portions (113) are grouped in one or more predetermined numbers can be alternately arranged along the direction in which the battery cells (100) are stacked.

[0114] The contact assembly (1110) may include one contact portion (111), or may include two or more contact portions (111). Similarly, the concave assembly (1130) may include one concave portion (113), or may include two or more concave portions (113).

[0115] In an embodiment, the support housing (110) may be a corrugated plate.

[0116] Meanwhile, in this specification, the contact portion (111), the support portion (1131), and the inclined portion (1132) are described as separate components, but they are not limited thereto and may be manufactured as an integral part. For example, the support housing (110) may be manufactured by folding a flat plate multiple times, or may be manufactured through injection molding.

[0117] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a support housing (110) may have concave portions (113) and contact portions (111) alternately arranged. Referring to FIG. 6, the concave portions (113) and contact portions (111) may be alternately arranged from left to right.

[0118] The flow path (120) may be formed in the contact portion (111) and the concave portion (113). The flow path (120) may be formed on one side of the support housing (110) facing the battery cell (100) and on the other side opposite to the one side. In other words, the flow paths (120) may be alternately formed on one side and the other side of the support housing (110), so that the influence of gas discharged from one battery cell (100) on an adjacent battery cell (100) may be minimized.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 6, the first battery cell (100_1) to the ninth battery cell (100_9) can be stacked along the Y direction. The support housing (110) can form the first flow path (120_1) to the ninth flow path (120_9) in the contact portion (111) and the concave portion (113). The first flow path (120_1) can be formed on one surface of the support housing (110) facing the battery cell (100), and the second flow path (120_2) can be formed on the other surface opposite to the one surface. In this way, adjacent flow paths (120) can be formed on different surfaces of the support housing (110) and arranged sequentially.

[0120] Gas discharged from the first battery cell (100_1) can move through the first flow path (120_1), and gas discharged from the second battery cell (100_2) can move through the second flow path (120_2).

[0121] The first flow path (120_1) may be formed in the concave portion (113). Specifically, the first flow path (120_1) may be formed by a support portion (1131) and an inclined portion (1132). The first flow path (120_1) and the ninth flow path (120_9) may be positioned at the outermost side so that the reinforcing portion (130) may form one side of the flow path (120).

[0122] The second flow path (120_2) can be formed at the contact portion (111). Specifically, the second flow path (120_2) can be formed by the contact portion (111) and the inclined portion (1132).

[0123] The length of the support portion (1131) and the length of the contact portion (111) along the direction in which the battery cells (100) are stacked may be the same. This is so that each of the plurality of paths (120) corresponds to each of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0124] A concave portion (113) may be arranged at the outermost side of the support housing (110) along the direction in which the battery cells (100) are stacked. By arranging the concave portion (113) at the outermost side, the structural stability of the battery module (200) may be improved. Specifically, a support portion (1131) may be positioned at the bottom of the battery cell (100) arranged at the outermost side. The support portion (1131) may be connected to the reinforcing portion (130). The connection method is not particularly limited and may be connected by a known method.

[0125] FIG. 7 illustrates a support housing (110) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-section of a battery module (200) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] Referring to Fig. 7, contact portions (111) may be arranged sequentially to form a contact portion assembly (1110). Referring to Fig. 8, battery cells may be arranged sequentially from the first battery cell (100_1) to the eighth battery cell (100_8) in a direction from left to right. A concave portion (113) may be arranged at the outermost side, and concave portions (113) and contact portions (111) may be arranged alternately toward the inside.

[0127] In one embodiment, the concave portion (113) and the contact portion (111) correspond to one battery cell (100) and can be arranged alternately. When the number of battery cells (100) is provided in an even number, two contact portions (111) can meet each other at points where the same number of battery cells (100) are located on both sides. The two contact portions (111) can form a contact portion assembly (1110). Accordingly, the gas discharged from each venting portion (103) of the two battery cells (100_4, 100_5) located in the center can move through one flow path (120_4).

[0128] Although this specification only illustrates a contact assembly (1110) in which two contact portions (111) are connected, two or more concave portions (113) may be connected to form a concave portion assembly (1130). In this case, gas discharged from a plurality of battery cells (100) facing each other with concave portions (113) connected to each other may move through a flow path (120) formed by the concave portion assembly (1130).

[0129] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate support housings (110b, 110c) according to other embodiments of the present disclosure. A cross-section of the flow path (120) cut along a direction perpendicular to the preset protrusion direction may be a polygon. The cross-section refers to a surface surrounded by a concave portion (113) and a contact portion (111) along with an imaginary line extending from the contact portion (111) or the support portion (1131) in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells (100) extend.

[0130] The euro (120) is formed by the support housing (110), but is not closed, but rather has one side open, so that it includes an imaginary line extending along the support portion (1131) or the contact portion (111) in one direction to form a cross-section.

[0131] Referring to Fig. 9, the support portion (1131) and the inclined portion (1132) may be formed vertically. The lengths of the contact portion (111) and the inclined portion (1132) along the Y direction may be the same. The length of the contact portion (111) along the Y direction may be the same as the length of the battery cell (100). Through this, one battery cell (100) may be positioned in each of the contact portion (111) and the concave portion (113).

[0132] Referring to FIG. 10, the support portion (1131) and the inclined portion (1132) may form an acute angle. The lengths of the contact portion (111) and the inclined portion (1132) along the Y direction may be the same. The length of the contact portion (111) along the Y direction may be longer than the length of the battery cell (100).

[0133] Meanwhile, the battery module (200) of the present disclosure may further include a heat conducting portion (180) that covers the upper surfaces of a plurality of battery cells (100) and transfers heat to the outside. Referring again to FIGS. 2 to 4, the heat conducting portion (180) may cover the upper surfaces of the plurality of battery cells (100) along the Z direction.

[0134] The heat-conducting portion (180) may include a material with high thermal conductivity. The heat-conducting portion (180) may efficiently transfer heat generated from a plurality of battery cells (100) to the outside. In an embodiment, the heat-conducting portion (180) is connected to a cooling plate (not shown) for cooling, and the temperature of the plurality of battery cells (100) may be controlled by the cooling plate.

[0135] The heat-conducting member (180) may be applied to the upper surfaces of a plurality of battery cells (100) or may be formed in a plate shape and placed on the upper surfaces of the plurality of battery cells (100). Without being limited to these methods, any known technology capable of efficiently transferring heat to control the temperature of the plurality of battery cells (100) may be applied. Furthermore, any known configuration may be used.

[0136] When the heat-conducting portion (180) is provided in a plate shape, the heat-conducting portion (180) may constitute a part of the module housing. The heat-conducting portion (180) may be connected to the reinforcing portion (130). The heat-conducting portion (180), the support housing (110), and the reinforcing portion (130) may be connected to form a receiving space that accommodates a plurality of battery cells (100) therein.

[0137] Meanwhile, without being limited thereto, the battery module (200) of the present disclosure may further include a module housing (not shown). The module housing may include a support housing, a reinforcement member, and a lower body and an upper body that accommodate a plurality of battery cells therein. The lower body and the upper body may be combined to form an accommodation space therein. Referring again to FIG. 1, the battery module (200) may further include a module housing that covers the outer side of the support housing, the reinforcement member, the busbar assembly, and the heat-conducting member.

[0138] FIG. 11 illustrates a battery pack (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] The battery pack (300) of the present disclosure includes a battery module (200) of the present disclosure and a pack case (310) that accommodates the battery module (200) therein. Referring to FIG. 11, a module accommodation space (360) is formed on the pack case (310), and the battery module (200) can be positioned in the module accommodation space (360).

[0140] The battery pack (300) may include several configurations to secure the structural rigidity of the pack case (310). The battery pack (300) may include a cross member (340) that protrudes from the tray (320) of the pack case (310) across the entire tray (320) to connect the opposing side wall portions (330) of the pack case (310). In addition, the battery pack (300) may include a partition wall (350) that protrudes from the tray (320) of the pack housing in a form that connects the cross member (340) and the side wall portions (330).

[0141] A pack case (310) can accommodate multiple battery modules (200). This allows for the manufacture of a high-output and high-performance battery pack (300).

[0142] Meanwhile, the battery pack (300) may further include a cooling plate (not shown). The cooling plate may be positioned on top of the battery module (200). The cooling plate may be connected to the heat conducting portion (180) to cool the battery module (200).

[0143] Meanwhile, the battery pack (300) may further include a pack control unit (370). The pack control unit (370) may control a plurality of battery modules (200) housed in the battery pack (300). For example, the current, voltage, and charging state of the battery modules (200) may be controlled. The battery pack (300) may be controlled according to a known method without being limited thereto.

[0144] The present disclosure may be embodied in various forms and embodiments, and is not limited to the above-described embodiments. The above description merely exemplifies the principles of the present disclosure, and other configurations may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A plurality of battery cells including a main body part including an electrode assembly therein, a venting part formed openably on one surface of the main body part, and a tab part connected to the electrode assembly and protruding outwardly from the main body part along a preset protrusion direction; and A battery module comprising: a support housing including a contact portion that contacts at least one battery cell among the plurality of battery cells, a through hole formed through the contact portion, and a concave portion that is sunken in a direction away from the plurality of battery cells on both sides of the contact portion, and that supports the plurality of battery cells.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery module further comprising a path formed in the contact portion and the concave portion and communicating with the main body portion through the through hole when the venting portion is opened.

3. In paragraph 1, The above plurality of battery cells are stacked along one direction so that the main bodies of two adjacent battery cells among the above plurality of battery cells face each other, A battery module in which the above-mentioned venting portion and the above-mentioned tab portion are respectively positioned on different surfaces of one surface of the plurality of battery cells that are formed perpendicularly to the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are stacked.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery module in which the above through hole is formed at a position corresponding to the above venting portion.

5. In paragraph 1, The above venting part is a battery module that can be opened based on the internal pressure of the main body part.

6. In paragraph 2, A battery module in which the above contact portion and the above concave portion extend along the above preset protrusion direction.

7. In paragraph 6, The above support housing is a battery module having a corrugated plate shape.

8. In paragraph 6, A battery module in which a concave portion is arranged on the outermost side of the support housing along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

9. In paragraph 8, A battery module in which the support housing includes a plurality of contact portions and a plurality of recessed portions, and a contact portion assembly in which the contact portions are grouped into one or more preset numbers and a recessed portion assembly in which the recessed portions are grouped into one or more preset numbers are alternately arranged along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

10. In paragraph 9, A battery module in which a cross-section of the above-described path is cut along a direction perpendicular to the above-described protrusion direction and is a polygon.

11. In paragraph 1, A reinforcing member arranged on both sides of the plurality of battery cells along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are stacked; and A battery module further comprising a bending portion that surrounds the plurality of battery cells and connects the reinforcing portions to each other.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery module in which the above bending portion covers one surface from which the tab portions of the plurality of battery cells protrude.

13. In paragraph 11, A battery module in which the above reinforcement part is joined to the above bending part at the vertex area.

14. In paragraph 11, A battery module in which the above reinforcing part and the above bending part are connected by screw joints.

15. In paragraph 11, The above support housing is a battery module connected to the above reinforcement part.

16. In paragraph 1, The above support housing is a battery module including a stainless steel material.

17. In paragraph 1, A battery module further comprising a heat conducting portion that covers the upper surface of the plurality of battery cells and transfers heat to the outside.

18. Battery module of paragraph 1; and A battery pack including a pack case that accommodates the above battery module inside.

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