Battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module characterized by comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a module case having an open upper portion and configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells; and a top plate coupled to the open upper portion of the module case and having a plurality of venting flow paths configured such that venting gas generated from the battery cells is divided while flowing.

Description

Battery modules, battery packs containing the same, and vehicles

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle. Specifically, the present invention relates to a battery module capable of suppressing heat transmission within the battery module, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0161281, filed on November 20, 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. Furthermore, battery modules are structured to house these cells tightly within the module housing. Therefore, if a thermal event occurs in a single battery cell, the resulting high-temperature gases or flames can spread to adjacent cells, potentially triggering a chain reaction of battery cell explosions, posing a significant risk.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that can suppress and delay heat propagation so that even if a thermal event occurs in some battery cells within a battery module by clearly separating the battery cells, gas or flames are prevented from being transferred to other battery cells within the battery module and causing thermal runaway.

[0007] Accordingly, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module in which the battery cells are clearly separated into compartments so that the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0008] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack and a vehicle including such a battery module.

[0009] 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.

[0010] To solve the above problem, a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of battery cells; a module case having an open top and configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells; and a top plate coupled to the open top of the module case and having a plurality of venting channels formed therein, the venting gases generated from the battery cells flowing and being separated from each other.

[0011] The top plate may include a baffle configured to divide the venting duct into a plurality of sections.

[0012] The above baffle may be configured to guide the venting gas to the outside of the top plate.

[0013] The top plate may be formed with at least one venting hole configured to allow the venting gas to be discharged from the receiving space toward the venting path.

[0014] The above venting holes may be arranged along a plurality of rows, and the partition walls may be provided between the venting holes to be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction.

[0015] The top plate may include a lower plate configured to allow the bulkhead to be secured thereto and in which the venting hole is formed, and an upper plate configured to be spaced upward from the lower plate and cover the venting hole.

[0016] The top plate may include a discharge hole configured to communicate the venting duct and the exterior of the top plate.

[0017] The above discharge hole may be provided at at least one of the longitudinal ends of the top plate.

[0018] The battery cell is a pouch-shaped battery cell including an electrode lead on at least one longitudinal side, and the partition wall is configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell, and the partition wall, the lower plate, and the upper plate are connected to each other to form a plurality of venting channels that are isolated from each other so that both longitudinal ends of the battery cell are open.

[0019] The above bulkhead, lower plate and upper plate can be formed integrally by extrusion.

[0020] It may further include a blocking member provided between the battery cells and configured to contact the top plate.

[0021] The upper portion of the above blocking member may be configured to be inserted into the top plate.

[0022] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0023] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a pack case having a plurality of frames provided at the front and rear of the battery module and having an open upper surface configured to accommodate the battery module, and a pack cover coupled to the open upper surface of the pack case, wherein venting gas discharged to the outside from the venting path can be configured to be discharged to the outside of the pack case through a space between the frame or the battery module and the pack cover.

[0024] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, by reliably separating battery cells within a battery module, even if a thermal event occurs in some battery cells within the battery module, the transfer of gas or flames to other battery cells within the battery module and resulting thermal runaway can be effectively prevented or delayed. This ensures the safety and reliability of the battery module.

[0026] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, high-temperature gases or flames generated in battery cells within a battery module can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module.

[0027] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent high-temperature gas or flames discharged to the outside of the battery module from flowing back into the inside of the battery module.

[0028] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, an event due to thermal runaway phenomenon, such as a fire or explosion, of a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules or a device equipped with the same can be prevented or delayed.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a top plate included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of a top plate included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of a top plate included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the direction in which gas and the like are discharged outside the battery pack when the battery module experiences thermal runaway.

[0042] FIG. 12 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 the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may mean the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on a horizontal plane (XY plane), that is, the length direction of the battery cell, and the Z-axis direction may mean the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, that is, the height direction of the battery cell.

[0048]

[0049] FIG. 1 is a full perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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).

[0054] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the module case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). Specifically, a receiving space (S) may be formed in the module case (200), and a plurality of battery cells (100) may be configured to be accommodated in the receiving space (S).

[0055] Specifically, the module case (200) may be provided as a U-frame configured to be open at the top. When the module case (200) is provided as a U-frame, it may be provided to cover both sides and the bottom surface of the battery cell stack. The module case (200) may include a left plate and a right plate covering both sides of the battery cell stack, and a lower plate covering the bottom surface. In addition, the left plate, the right plate, and the lower plate may be configured in an integrated form. At this time, the top surface and the front and rear surfaces of the module case (200) may be open.

[0056] Such a module case (200) may be made of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the received battery cell (100).

[0057] Meanwhile, the battery module (10) may include an end plate (400) provided on the open front and rear sides of the module case (200). The end plate (400) may be welded and joined to the module case (200).

[0058] 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.

[0059] A battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a top plate (300). The top plate (300) may be coupled to the open upper portion of the module case (200). Thus, the top plate (300) may be provided to form the upper surface of the module case (200). The top plate (300) may be welded to the module case (200) to be coupled to each other. At this time, the combined shape of the top plate (300) and the module case (200) may be a square tubular shape with open front and back surfaces.

[0060] The top plate (300) may be made of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. For example, the top plate (300) may be made of a fire-resistant plastic material.

[0061] A venting path (P) may be formed in the top plate (300). The venting path (P) may be configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) to flow. The venting path (P) may be configured to communicate the receiving space (S) with the outside of the battery module (10). That is, as indicated by the bold arrow in FIG. 3, when a thermal event occurs in any battery cell (100), venting gas or flame, etc., is discharged through the venting path (P), and the venting gas or flame, etc. in the venting path (P) may be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10).

[0062] A plurality of venting paths (P) may be provided. These plurality of venting paths (P) may be configured to be separated from each other. Accordingly, venting gas may flow in each venting path (P), and the venting gas flowing in a particular venting path (P) may be prevented from moving to an adjacent venting path (P).

[0063] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since multiple venting paths (P) are separated from each other, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (100), venting gas or flames are prevented from being transferred to adjacent battery cells (100), so that thermal runaway propagation between battery cells (100) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0064] In addition, since each venting path (P) is independently provided, it is possible to prevent high-temperature gases or flames discharged outside the receiving space (S) from flowing back into the receiving space (S). As a result, the safety and reliability of the battery module (10) can be guaranteed.

[0065] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since venting gas and the like can be smoothly discharged through the venting path (P), heat accumulation inside the battery module (10) can be prevented or suppressed.

[0066]

[0067] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Also, Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] More specifically, the top plate (300) may include a partition wall (310) configured to divide the venting path (P) into a plurality of parts. The partition wall (310) may be provided inside the venting path (P) formed in the top plate (300). At this time, referring to FIG. 4, the partition walls (310) may be provided in a plurality of pieces so as to be spaced apart from each other along one direction. The one direction may be defined as the direction in which the battery cells (100) are stacked, i.e., the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0069] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting paths (P) are separated from each other by the partition wall (310), the movement of the venting gas to the adjacent venting path (P) can be blocked. Accordingly, the transfer of the venting gas and the like to the adjacent battery cells (100) is prevented, so that the propagation of thermal runaway between the battery cells (100) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0070] The bulkhead (310) may be configured to guide venting gas to the outside of the top plate (300). Referring to FIG. 5, the bulkhead (310) may be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cell (100). The length of the bulkhead (310) may be provided to correspond to the length of the top plate (300).

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a venting hole (H) may be formed in the top plate (300). The venting hole (H) may be configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) to be discharged from the receiving space (S) toward the venting path (P). The venting hole (H) may be provided in the top plate (300) to enable directional venting in a specific direction.

[0072] Specifically, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 4, venting gas, etc. generated in the battery cell (100) can flow from the receiving space (S) to the venting path (P) through the venting hole (H). Such venting gas, etc. can be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) in both directions from the venting path (P), as shown by the arrows in FIG. 5.

[0073] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting gas, etc. discharged from the venting hole (H) can move directly to the venting path (P) formed in the top plate (300), the venting gas, etc. can be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) more quickly.

[0074] A plurality of venting holes (H) may be provided. The venting holes (H) may be provided at regular intervals in the horizontal direction (X-axis, Y-axis direction). The venting holes (H) may be arranged along a plurality of rows. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the venting holes (H) are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (100), and the plurality of venting holes (H) arranged in a row may be arranged in a plurality of rows along the stacking direction of the battery cell (100).

[0075] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs at any location of the battery cell (100), the venting gas or flame can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through specific venting holes (H) provided at the upper portion of the battery cell (100).

[0076] It can be configured to correspond to the spacing between the venting holes (H). At this time, the partition walls (310) can be provided between the venting holes (H) and can be provided to be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction. The partition walls (310) can be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells (100). The partition walls (310) can be configured to block venting gas, etc. from moving along the stacking direction of the battery cells (100). The widthwise thickness of the partition walls (310)

[0077] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the partition wall (310) is provided between the venting holes (H), the venting gas, etc. inside the venting path (P) can be prevented from flowing back into the module case (200) through the venting hole (H) of the adjacent venting path (P). Accordingly, even if a thermal event occurs in any battery cell (100), the possibility of the venting gas or heat, etc. being transferred to another battery cell (100) can be reduced. That is, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells (100) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0078]

[0079] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a top plate included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of a top plate included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the top plate (300) may include a lower plate (320) and an upper plate (330) in addition to a partition wall (310). The lower plate (320) may be configured to allow the partition wall (310) to be seated thereon. The lower plate (320) may form the lower surface of the top plate (300). A venting hole (H) may be formed in the lower plate (320).

[0081] The upper plate (330) may be provided spaced upwardly from the lower plate (320). The upper plate (330) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H). The upper plate (330) may form the upper surface of the top plate (300). The upper plate (330) may be provided in a flat plate shape. The upper plate (330) may be configured to prevent the venting gas discharged from the venting hole (H) from moving upward.

[0082] At this time, the venting path (P) can be defined as a space formed by the lower plate (320), the upper plate (330), and the partition wall (310). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas, etc. of the venting path (P) can only flow within one venting path (P) without moving toward another adjacent battery cell (100). Accordingly, the movement of the venting gas, etc. between the venting paths (P) that are adjacent to each other in the left and right direction (X-axis direction) with one partition wall (310) in the middle can be restricted.

[0083] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to prevent venting gas, etc. discharged through the venting hole (H) into the venting path (P) from flowing back into the accommodation space (S) of the battery cells (100) through the venting hole (H) provided in another venting path (P).

[0084] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the bulkhead (310), the lower plate (320), and the upper plate (330) can form a plurality of venting paths (P) that are isolated from each other so that both longitudinal ends of the battery cell (100) are open.

[0085] Specifically, the top plate (300) may include a discharge hole (340). The discharge hole (340) may be configured to communicate the venting path (P) with the outside of the top plate (300). That is, the venting gas, etc., within the venting path (P) may be discharged to the outside of the top plate (300) through the discharge hole (340).

[0086] The exhaust hole (340) may be provided at at least one of the longitudinal ends of the top plate (300). The exhaust hole (340) may be configured such that both longitudinal ends of the venting path (P) are open. The exhaust hole (340) may be provided at different positions depending on the direction in which the venting gas is discharged from the venting path (P). As in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the exhaust holes (340) are provided at both longitudinal ends of the top plate (300) so that the venting gas of the venting path (P) can be discharged in both directions. At this time, the partition wall (310) may guide the venting gas to flow toward the exhaust holes (340) provided at both ends of the venting path (P).

[0087] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas and the like can be discharged in a targeted direction, for example, the direction in which the discharge hole (340) is formed. That is, since the surrounding area except for the venting hole (H) is blocked based on the discharge hole (340), the directional venting of the venting gas can be more effectively guided toward the discharge hole (340). Thus, according to the present embodiment, the venting gas can be quickly guided from inside the venting path (P) to the discharge hole (340) and discharged to the outside.

[0088] Meanwhile, the open end of the bulkhead (310) may be provided in a diagonal shape. The longitudinal length of the bulkhead (310) may be configured to include a portion that becomes shorter as it goes upward. That is, the end of the bulkhead (310) may be configured to form an acute angle with the lower plate (320). Accordingly, the discharge hole (340) may also be configured to form an acute angle with the lower plate (320). At this time, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the length of the upper plate (330) may be provided to be shorter than the length of the lower plate (320) so as to correspond to the diagonal shape of the end of the bulkhead (310).

[0089] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional area of ​​the discharge hole (340) can be provided to be larger than when both ends of the bulkhead (310) are provided in a straight line. Accordingly, more venting gas can be discharged through the discharge hole (340), so that the venting gas can be discharged more smoothly to the outside of the battery module (10).

[0090] Alternatively, although not shown in the drawing, the upper plate (330) may be provided to protrude outwardly from the bulkhead (310). In this case, the protruding upper plate (330) can block the venting gas discharged from the discharge hole (340) from moving upward. This can further induce directional venting of the venting gas.

[0091] In addition, the bulkhead (310), the lower plate (320), and the upper plate (330) may be formed integrally by extrusion. That is, the top plate (300) may be formed integrally by extrusion, and the bulkhead (310), the lower plate (320), and the upper plate (330) may be formed integrally. As the top plate (300) is formed by extrusion, the bulkhead (310) may be formed to extend in a straight line along the extrusion direction (the longitudinal direction of the top plate (300)). In addition, as the top plate (300) is formed by extrusion, a discharge hole (340) may be formed at the end of the top plate (300).

[0092] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the partition wall (310) is integrally provided with the lower plate (320) and the upper plate (330), the process of combining various components is omitted, and defects in the portion where the partition wall (310) is combined with the lower plate (320) and the upper plate (330) can be minimized.

[0093]

[0094] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of a top plate included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 2, 4, and 8, a battery module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a blocking member (500). The blocking member (500) may be provided between battery cells (100) and configured to partition between a plurality of battery cells (100). In particular, at least one blocking member (500) may be included in one battery module (10). A plurality of blocking members (500) may be provided along one direction in which the battery cells (100) are arranged.

[0096] The blocking member (500) may be provided in a form in which it is arranged for at least one battery cell (100). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, in a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a blocking member (200) is arranged for every two battery cells (100), and a plurality of venting holes (H) may be formed in a row along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cells (100) on the upper portions of the battery cells (100) provided between adjacent blocking members (200).

[0097] The blocking member (500) may be provided as an insulating pad thinner than the battery cell (100). The blocking member (500) may be provided with a material having excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. Alternatively, the blocking member (500) may be provided in the form of a compressible pad, for example, with a material such as silicone or aerogel.

[0098] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the battery cells (100) can be partitioned or separated to prevent gas or flames from being transferred to another blocking member (500) adjacent to the blocking member (500). In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the blocking member (500) can contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cells (100) by compressing the battery cells (100) when the battery cells (100) are swollen.

[0099] At this time, as in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the blocking member (200) may be provided to be in contact with the top plate (300). Specifically, the upper portion of the blocking member (500) may be configured to be in contact with the lower plate (320) of the top plate (300). In addition, the partition wall (310) may be provided on the upper portion of the blocking member (500) to correspond to the number of blocking members (500). Accordingly, the blocking member (500) may be provided on the lower portion of the partition wall (310) provided between the venting holes (H).

[0100] Accordingly, gas or flame emitted from a battery cell (100) accommodated between adjacent blocking members (200) can be discharged to the outside of the module case (200) only through the venting hole (H) located between the adjacent blocking members (200).

[0101] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the gap between the blocking member (200) and the top plate (300) is minimized, thereby reducing the space through which venting gas can flow, thereby preventing thermal runaway from spreading to other adjacent battery cells (100). As a result, the safety and reliability of the battery module (10) can be guaranteed.

[0102] In particular, referring to FIG. 9, the upper portion of the blocking member (500) may be configured to be inserted into the top plate (300).

[0103] At this time, the blocking member (200) may be provided to extend vertically further than the battery cell (100). That is, the vertical height of the blocking member (200) may be provided to be longer than the vertical height of the battery cell (100). Accordingly, both sides of the battery cell (100) are blocked by the blocking member (500), thereby preventing venting gas and the like from moving within the module case (200).

[0104] Specifically, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, an insertion groove (350) may be formed in the top plate (300). The insertion groove (350) may be configured such that the upper portion of the blocking member (200) is inserted therein. The insertion groove (350) may be provided in the form of a groove formed by at least a portion of the lower plate (320) being sunken in. In this case, when the top plate (300) is coupled to the module case (200), the upper portion of the blocking member (200) may be provided in close contact with the insertion groove (350) without a gap.

[0105] In addition, the insertion groove (350) may be formed to extend in a straight line along the longitudinal direction of the blocking member (500). This insertion groove (350) may be formed to extend in a straight line along the extrusion direction (Y-axis direction of FIG. 10) as the top plate (300) is compressed and manufactured. At this time, the length of the insertion groove (350) may be configured to correspond to the length of the blocking member (500).

[0106] According to this embodiment of the present invention, since the upper part of the blocking member (200) is inserted into the insertion groove (350) of the top plate (300), the battery cells (100) can be more reliably separated.

[0107] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the blocking member (200) is fixed to the top plate (300), it is possible to suppress bending deformation of the blocking member (200). Even if a thermal event occurs, the possibility of high temperature and high pressure venting gas or flames being transferred to other battery cells (100) while pushing out the blocking member (200) can be reduced. Accordingly, when thermal runaway propagation of the battery module (10) occurs, thermal runaway propagation between battery cells (100) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0108] In addition, the insertion groove (350) is located on the inside of the battery module (10) so as not to increase the height of the battery module (10) and not to cause changes in the appearance of the battery module (10). Therefore, the energy density of the battery module (10) can be prevented from being affected.

[0109]

[0110] Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the direction in which gas and the like are discharged outside the battery pack when the battery module experiences thermal runaway.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 11, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. The battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include a pack case (2) for accommodating a BMS (Battery Management System), a current sensor, a fuse, and the like for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules (10), and the above-described components.

[0112] A plurality of battery modules (10) may be arranged adjacently in the front-back direction and / or left-right direction along a plurality of rows inside the pack case (2). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11, a plurality of battery modules (10) may be arranged in four rows along the left-right direction (X-axis direction) and in two rows along the front-back direction (Y-axis direction).

[0113] The pack case (2) may be configured to have an open upper surface to accommodate a battery module (10). The pack case (2) may be made of a material that can ensure mechanical strength, such as a metal such as steel or SUS, or a plastic, or may include such a material.

[0114] In addition, the pack case (2) may include a plurality of frames (21, 22, 23). At least some of the plurality of frames (21, 22, 23) may be provided on both sides of the battery module (10). The frames (21, 22, 23) may include a side frame (21), a center beam (22), and a cross beam (23).

[0115] A side frame (21) may be provided to extend upward from each corner of a base frame configured to form a lower surface of a pack case (2). The side frame (21) may form a side surface of the pack case (2). The side frame (21) may be provided with a plurality of unit walls to surround a plurality of battery modules (10).

[0116] In addition, a center beam (22) and a cross beam (23) may be provided to partition between a plurality of battery modules (10). For example, the center beam (22) may be formed in the form of a partition wall that extends long in the stacking direction (X-axis direction) of the battery modules (10), and may be interposed between battery modules (10) that are adjacently arranged in the front-rear direction. In addition, the cross beam (23) may be formed in the form of a partition wall that extends long in the front-rear direction, and may be interposed between battery modules (10) that are adjacently arranged in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery modules (10).

[0117] According to this implementation configuration, heat or flame can be prevented from being directly directed between battery modules (10) whose storage space is separated by a center beam (22) and a cross beam (23).

[0118] In addition, the pack case (2) may be provided with a discharge portion (24). The discharge portion (24) may be configured to discharge venting gas generated in the battery module (10) to the outside of the pack case (2). The discharge portion (24) may be provided in the form of a hole penetrating between the inside and the outside of the pack case (2). Alternatively, the discharge portion (24) may be provided in the form of a venting device configured to be mountable in a hole of the pack case (2) and to be activated when exhaust gas is generated inside the pack case (2).

[0119] The discharge portion (24) may be provided on the side of the pack case (2), i.e., on the side frame (21). A plurality of discharge portions (24) may be provided. The discharge portions (24) may be located on at least some of the unit walls among the multiple unit walls of the side frame (21). In addition, the discharge portions (24) may be separately formed on two or more unit walls, or two or more may be formed on one unit wall.

[0120] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, it is easy to more quickly discharge the venting gas to the outside of the pack case (2) in the event of an abnormal situation of the battery cell (100).

[0121] Meanwhile, the number and location of the discharge unit (24) described based on the embodiment of Fig. 11 are merely examples, and can be changed to various other numbers and locations.

[0122] The pack cover (3) may be configured to cover the upper portion of a plurality of battery modules (10). The pack cover (3) may be configured to cover the open upper portion of the pack case (2). The pack cover (3) may be coupled to a side frame (21). In addition, the pack cover (3) and the center beam (22) may be configured to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance.

[0123] The pack cover (3) protects components stored inside the pack case (2), such as the battery module (10), and can prevent emissions discharged from the battery module (10) from being discharged to the outside of the pack case (2), particularly to the upper part.

[0124] Specifically, as indicated by the arrow illustrated in FIG. 11, in the present invention, the venting gas discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) from the venting path (P) may be configured to be discharged to the outside of the pack case (2). The venting gas may be configured to be discharged to the outside of the pack case (2) through the space between the frame, such as the center beam (22) and the pack cover (3), and / or the space between the battery module (10) and the pack cover (3). At this time, the space between the battery module (10) and the pack cover (3) may mean the space between the discharge hole (340) and the pack cover (3).

[0125] Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in the receiving space (S) of the battery module (10), venting gas, etc., may flow into the venting path (P) through the venting hole (H) and be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through the discharge hole (340). Such venting gas, etc. may move to the discharge portion (24) of the pack case (2) through the venting path provided in the internal space of the pack case (2) and be discharged to the outside of the pack case (2).

[0126] At this time, other parts of the battery module (10) except for the discharge hole (340), such as the upper plate (330), may be configured to be in complete contact with the pack cover (3). Accordingly, the venting gas, etc. discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) may be concentrated in the venting path of the pack case (2) and guided to move directly toward the discharge portion (24) instead of spreading in all directions inside the pack case (2). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting gas, etc. is prevented from flowing into other battery modules (10) and causing heat to be transferred, the heat propagation between the battery modules (10) can be effectively prevented or delayed. As a result, the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1) unit can be guaranteed.

[0127]

[0128] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 12, a vehicle (V) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention or battery modules (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (V) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (V) includes a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheel vehicle. The vehicle (V) operates by receiving power from a battery pack (1) or a battery module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] 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. Multiple battery cells; A module case having an open top and configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells; and A battery module characterized by including a top plate coupled to the open upper portion of the module case and having a plurality of venting channels formed therein, the venting gas generated from the battery cells flowing and being separated from each other.

2. In paragraph 1, The above top plate A battery module characterized by including a bulkhead configured to divide the venting path into a plurality of sections.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery module, characterized in that the baffle is configured to guide the venting gas to the outside of the top plate.

4. In paragraph 2, The above top plate A battery module characterized in that at least one venting hole is formed so that the venting gas is discharged from the receiving space toward the venting path.

5. In paragraph 4, The above venting holes are arranged along a number of rows, A battery module characterized in that the above bulkheads are provided between the venting holes and are spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction.

6. In paragraph 4, The above top plate A lower plate configured to allow the above bulkhead to be settled and in which the above venting hole is formed; A battery module characterized by including an upper plate spaced upward from the lower plate and configured to cover the venting hole.

7. In paragraph 1, The above top plate A battery module characterized by including a discharge hole configured to communicate the venting euro and the exterior of the top plate.

8. In paragraph 7, A battery module, characterized in that the discharge hole is provided at at least one of the longitudinal ends of the top plate.

9. In paragraph 6, The above battery cell is a pouch-shaped battery cell including an electrode lead on at least one side in the longitudinal direction, The above bulkhead is configured to extend along the length direction of the battery cell, A battery module characterized in that the bulkhead, the lower plate, and the upper plate are connected to each other to form a plurality of venting channels that are isolated from each other so that both longitudinal ends of the battery cell are open.

10. In paragraph 6, A battery module characterized in that the above bulkhead, lower plate, and upper plate are formed integrally by extrusion.

11. In paragraph 1, A battery module further comprising a blocking member provided between the battery cells and configured to contact the top plate.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery module characterized in that the upper part of the above blocking member is configured to be inserted into the top plate.

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

14. In paragraph 13, A pack case having an open upper surface configured to accommodate the battery module and including a plurality of frames provided at the front and rear of the battery module; and Including a pack cover coupled to the open upper surface of the pack case, A battery pack characterized in that the venting gas discharged to the outside from the venting path is configured to be discharged to the outside of the pack case through the space between the frame or the battery module and the pack cover.

15. A vehicle comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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