Battery assembly, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery assembly comprising: a plurality of battery cells having vent portions configured to discharge venting gas; a frame configured to seat the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of venting holes formed at positions corresponding to the vent portions; and a cover member covering the venting holes and configured to be opened by the venting gas.

Description

Battery assembly, battery pack and vehicle including same

[0001] Cross-citation with related application(s)

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0178828, filed December 11, 2023, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0179119, filed December 5, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The present invention relates to a battery assembly, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle.

[0004] 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.

[0005] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, i.e., unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5 V to 4.5 V. Therefore, when a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery pack. Furthermore, depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] Meanwhile, when configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, a common method is to first construct a battery assembly containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery assembly to add other components to form a battery pack or battery rack. Furthermore, recently, battery packs in the cell-to-pack form, where multiple battery cells are directly housed in a pack housing or the like, without modularization, have also been manufactured.

[0007] In battery packs or battery assemblies using conventional battery cells, abnormalities or misuse of the cells can cause internal temperatures to rise, leading to increased pressure within the cells. This internal pressure can cause the cells to vent or explode. The resulting high-temperature gases and flames can spread to adjacent cells, potentially triggering a chain reaction of battery cell explosions, posing a significant risk.

[0008] Thus, for example, conventional battery cells are manufactured with a vent section on one side, and the portion of the frame of the battery assembly housing such battery cells facing the vent section of the battery cell is manufactured thin. This allows the portion to fracture when a specific battery cell is vented, thereby allowing venting gases and the like to be discharged to the outside, thereby delaying or preventing the transfer of high-temperature gases and flames to other battery cells.

[0009] However, in these conventional battery assemblies, the injection-molded frame has limitations in manufacturing the portion where the battery cells are seated thinner than a certain thickness. Consequently, when a specific battery cell is vented, the portion facing the vent of the battery cell does not break, delaying the time it takes for high-temperature gas and flames to escape to the outside, and increasing the possibility that they may enter the battery assembly and cause additional chain reactions in adjacent battery cells. Therefore, improvement is required.

[0010] Accordingly, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery assembly capable of more efficiently discharging high-temperature gas and flames to the outside in the event of an abnormal condition of a battery cell, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle.

[0011] 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.

[0012] To solve the above problem, the present invention provides a battery assembly comprising: a plurality of battery cells each having a vent portion configured to discharge a venting gas; a frame configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of venting holes formed at positions corresponding to the vent portion; and a cover member configured to cover the venting holes and to be opened by the venting gas.

[0013] It may further include a cooling medium configured to be filled between the battery cells.

[0014] The above cover member may be located on the inside of the frame.

[0015] The above cover member may be configured to cover at least a portion of the plurality of venting holes.

[0016] The above cover member may include a bent portion configured such that the distal end is bent and extended in a direction away from the venting hole.

[0017] The above frame may include an insertion groove configured to be at least partially recessed so that a distal end of the cover member is inserted therein.

[0018] The above cover member may be located on the outside of the frame.

[0019] The cover member may further include a holder positioned on the inside and configured to at least partially accommodate the battery cell.

[0020] The holder may include a plurality of receiving portions configured to at least partially receive each battery cell, and a spacer provided between adjacent receiving portions of the plurality of receiving portions to maintain a gap between the battery cells.

[0021] It may further include an adhesive that is filled between the battery cells and configured to fix the battery cells to each other.

[0022] The adhesive may be interposed between the battery cell and the spacer.

[0023] The above spacer may include a portion whose thickness becomes narrower in one direction.

[0024] The adhesive is interposed between the battery cell and the frame, and the frame may include a filling groove configured to be filled with the adhesive.

[0025] The frame may include a coupling protrusion configured such that at least a portion thereof protrudes inwardly, and the holder may include a coupling groove configured such that the coupling protrusion is inserted therein.

[0026] The cover member may include a receiving portion that at least partially receives the battery cell.

[0027] The above cover member may include a bottom part facing the vent part.

[0028] The above cover member may include a spacer provided between adjacent ones of the plurality of receptacles to maintain a gap between the battery cells.

[0029] A venting path may be provided below the venting hole. The venting gas discharged from the vent portion of the battery cell may pass through the venting hole and move to the venting path.

[0030] The above battery assembly may further include an outer case provided on the outside of the frame, and a venting path may be formed between the frame and the outer case to communicate with the venting hole.

[0031] The outer case may further include ribs configured to divide the venting duct into a plurality of sections.

[0032] The outer case may include an exhaust port configured to communicate with the venting passage and allow the venting gas to be exhausted to the outside, and the rib may be configured to guide the venting gas to the exhaust port.

[0033] And, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery assembly according to the present invention.

[0034] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery assembly according to the present invention.

[0035] According to one aspect of the present invention, venting gas and flames that may be generated in an abnormal situation of a battery cell can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery assembly, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery assembly.

[0036] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell and high-temperature gas or flames are generated, the venting gas and flames can be directed in a specific direction to be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery assembly.

[0037] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, in the process of discharging venting gas, etc., from a battery cell to the outside of a battery assembly, it is possible to prevent additional chain fires by minimizing thermal damage to other battery cells.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the main components of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 4 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining that a cover member is opened when a thermal event occurs in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 6 is an internal perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a battery assembly to which a cover member is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining that the cover member is opened when a thermal event occurs in the battery assembly of FIG. 10.

[0051] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 12 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0052] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a holder applied to a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Fig. 14 is a top view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 14 may be a drawing illustrating a cross-section taken along line II-II' of Fig. 1.

[0054] FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which an outer case is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of another portion of a battery assembly to which an outer case is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 21 is a drawing for explaining that the cover member is opened when a thermal event occurs in the battery assembly of FIG. 20.

[0061] FIG. 22 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] FIG. 23 is a schematic perspective view showing the interior of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 24 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 25 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean a left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may mean a front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on a horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction may mean an up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0070]

[0071] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 4 may be a view showing a cross-section taken along line I-I' of FIG. 1. In addition, FIG. 5 is a view for explaining that a cover member is opened when a thermal event occurs in a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell (100), a frame (200), and a cover member (300).

[0073] A plurality of battery cells (100) may be arranged in a plurality of rows and columns to form a single battery assembly (10). The plurality of battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other. The battery cells (100) may be any type of secondary battery, such as a square, cylindrical, or pouch-shaped battery cell. In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the battery cells (100) are cylindrical battery cells.

[0074] Specifically, referring to FIG. 3, the battery cell (100) may include an electrode assembly, a battery housing, a housing cover, etc. In addition, the battery cell (100) may include a vent part (110). The vent part (110) may be configured to discharge venting gas. The vent part (110) may be configured to break when the internal pressure of the battery housing increases above a certain level. For example, the vent part (110) may be formed in a part of the housing cover and may be a structurally weaker area than the surrounding area so that it may be easily broken when internal pressure is applied. The vent part (110) may be, for example, a area having a thinner thickness compared to the surrounding area. Referring to FIG. 3, the vent part (110) may form a closed loop having a substantially circular shape.

[0075] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the battery assembly (10) of the present invention may be provided with the vent portion (110) of the battery cell (100) facing downward. However, this is not limited to this, and the vent portion (110) may of course be provided in other locations.

[0076] The frame (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The frame (200) may be configured to hold the plurality of battery cells (100) together in a single unit. The frame (200) may be made of a plastic or metal material to maintain rigidity.

[0077] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the frame (200) may be provided in a box shape with an open upper surface and four walls. The frame (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The plurality of battery cells (100) may be accommodated in the frame (200) while standing upright in the Z-axis direction.

[0078] An assembly cover (11) may be coupled to the open upper surface of the frame (200). The assembly cover (11) may form the upper surface of the battery assembly (10). The assembly cover (11) may be configured to cover the battery cell (100) from the upper side. The assembly cover (11) and the frame (200) may be coupled to form a rectangular box shape.

[0079] A plurality of venting holes (H) may be formed in the frame (200). The plurality of venting holes (H) may be formed at positions corresponding to the vent parts (110) of the battery cells (100). The plurality of venting holes (H) may be formed at positions corresponding to the vent parts (110) of each battery cell (100). The fact that the venting holes (H) are formed at positions corresponding to the vent parts (110) means that the venting holes (H) and the vent parts (110) have overlapping portions when viewed along the height direction of the battery cell (100). Here, the height direction of the battery cell (100) may be a direction parallel to the z-axis, which is a direction between the upper and lower surfaces of the battery cell (100). In other words, looking along the height direction of the battery cell (100) means looking along the +z-axis direction or the -z-axis direction on the xy plane.

[0080] The venting hole (H) may be configured to communicate the inside and outside of the battery assembly (10). Accordingly, the venting gas discharged through the vent portion (110) of the battery cell (100) may be discharged to the outside of the battery assembly (10) through the venting hole (H).

[0081] Referring to FIG. 4, the cover member (300) may be configured to cover the vent hole (H). That is, the cover member (300) may be configured to close the vent hole (H). The cover member (300) may be located on the outside of the battery cell (100). The cover member (300) may be configured to face the vent portion (110) of the battery cell (100). Although FIG. 4 illustrates that the cover member (300) is provided at the bottom of the battery cell (100) so that the battery cell (100) is seated thereon, the location of the cover member (300) may be provided at a different location depending on the location of the vent portion (110) of the battery cell (100).

[0082] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member (300) can prevent venting gas and the like from being discharged to the outside of the frame (200) under normal conditions. Accordingly, in the normal state of the battery cell (100), the cover member (300) can stably maintain covering the venting hole (H). In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member (300) can be configured to close the venting hole (H) under normal conditions so that foreign substances from the outside cannot enter the inside of the frame (200).

[0083] Furthermore, referring to FIG. 5, the cover member (300) may be configured to be opened by a venting gas. That is, the cover member (300) may be configured to normally remain attached to the frame (200) to cover the venting hole (H) and to be opened under specific circumstances. Specifically, the cover member (300) may be configured to be opened by the pressure or heat of the venting gas when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100). For example, the cover member (300) may be opened by being released from its attachment to the frame (200), being partially ruptured by the pressure of the venting gas, or being melted by the heat of the venting gas.

[0084] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), the cover member (300) is opened, so that the venting gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the frame (200) through an exposed portion of the venting hole (H) as indicated by the bold arrow in FIG. 5. Accordingly, when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), the pressure inside the battery assembly (10) is prevented from increasing, and additional chain fires in other battery cells (100) can be prevented. Therefore, according to the above-described aspect of the present invention, the safety and reliability of the battery assembly (10) can be guaranteed.

[0085] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting holes (H) provided on one side of the battery cells (100) other than the specific battery cell (100) in which the event occurred are maintained in a closed state by the cover member (300), it is possible to suppress or prevent the venting gas discharged to the outside of the battery assembly (10) from affecting the other adjacent battery cells (100). As a result, additional chain fires of the other battery cells (100) can be more effectively prevented.

[0086] The cover member (300) may be configured to have a flat surface. For example, the cover member (300) may be provided in the form of a thin film or sheet. Although the thickness of the cover member (300) is shown to be maximized in the drawing, the thickness of the cover member (300) may be provided to be 200 μm to 500 μm. This cover member (300) may be attached to the frame (200) by a method such as applying an adhesive or ultrasonic welding.

[0087] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, a venting hole (H) is provided in the frame (200), and since the cover member (300) covering the venting hole (H) is provided with a very thin thickness, the cover member (300) can be quickly broken. Accordingly, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), the venting gas can be quickly discharged to the outside.

[0088]

[0089] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the frame (200) may include a bottom frame (210), a side frame (220), and a top frame (230).

[0090] A bottom frame (210) may be provided at the bottom of a plurality of battery cells (100). In addition, a venting hole (H) may be formed in the bottom frame (210). A battery cell (100) may be provided in each venting hole (H).

[0091] The side frame (220) may extend upward from each corner of the bottom frame (210). The side frame (220) may be provided with a plurality of unit walls to surround a plurality of battery cells (100). More specifically, the plurality of side frames (220) may be provided with a right wall located at the +X direction side end of the bottom frame (210), a rear wall located at the +Y direction side end, a left wall located at the -X direction side end, and a front wall located at the -Y direction side end, respectively, to form a side surface of the battery assembly (10).

[0092] The top frame (230) may be configured to at least partially accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The top frame (230) may be positioned spaced upward from the bottom frame (210). The top frame (230) may be configured to maintain a spacing between the battery cells (100) at the upper portions of the plurality of battery cells (100). The top frame (230) may be provided to maintain a spacing between the battery cells (100). Holes may be formed in the top frame (230) into which the upper portions of the plurality of battery cells (100) are inserted.

[0093]

[0094] Figure 6 is an internal perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 6, a battery assembly (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a cooling medium (400). The cooling medium (400) may be provided as insulating oil or coolant. The cooling medium (400) may be configured to be filled between the battery cells (100). Specifically, the cooling medium (400) may be filled between the top frame (230) and the cover member (300). That is, the cooling medium (400), which prevents the temperature of the battery cells (100) from increasing due to high-temperature gas or flame, may be filled between the top frame (230), the cover member (300), and the battery cells (100).

[0096] Accordingly, the battery cell (100) may be partially immersed in the cooling medium (400) within the battery assembly (10). Alternatively, the entire battery cell (100) may be immersed in the cooling medium (400) within the battery assembly (10). The cooling medium (400) may cool the battery cells (100) by directly contacting them. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cooling performance of the battery cell (100) may be improved due to the direct water cooling (Immersion Cooling) method.

[0097] The cooling medium (400) increases the thermal mass, thereby delaying the temperature rise of the battery cell (100) even in situations such as rapid charging and discharging of the battery cell (100), thereby preventing a rapid temperature rise of the battery cell (100).

[0098] Meanwhile, even if the cooling medium (400) is not illustrated in drawings other than FIG. 6, the cooling medium (400) may be interposed between the battery cells (100), as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0099]

[0100] Meanwhile, since the battery assembly (10) of the present invention uses a direct water cooling method in which a cooling medium (400) is filled between battery cells (100), there is a possibility that the cooling medium (400) may leak to the outside through the venting hole (H) of the frame (200). Accordingly, there is a need for a structure to prevent the cooling medium (400) from leaking to the outside.

[0101] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the cover member (300) may be configured to prevent moisture penetration. The cover member (300) may be formed of any structure or material capable of preventing moisture penetration. For example, the cover member (300) may be formed of a waterproof material, such as a waterproof film.

[0102] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member (300) can be prevented from being damaged by the cooling medium (400), thereby maintaining the closed state of the venting hole (H) of the cover member (300) more stably. In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cooling medium (400) can be prevented from leaking out of the battery assembly (10) through the venting hole (H), thereby further securing the cooling performance of the battery assembly (10).

[0103] In addition, the cover member (300) may be made of a material having heat resistance. The battery cell (100) may generate heat while repeating charging and discharging during normal operation. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if high-temperature venting gas is generated in some of the battery cells (100) included in the battery assembly (10), the cover member (300) may not be opened if the gas is below a specific temperature, particularly if no thermal event occurs in the battery assembly (10) or normal use is possible.

[0104]

[0105] Meanwhile, the cover member (300) may be configured to be broken by the pressure of the venting gas. Alternatively, the cover member (300) may be configured to be at least partially melted by the heat of the flame. That is, the cover member (300) may be configured to open only a portion facing the vent portion (110) through which the venting gas is vented when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100). Accordingly, even if the cover member (300) is opened, the venting hole (H) is not completely opened, but only a portion thereof is opened, thereby preventing the cooling medium (400) from leaking to the outside through the venting hole (H).

[0106] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the sealing property of the cover member (300) covering the venting hole (H) can be improved. In particular, in the case of direct water cooling in which the cooling medium (400) is interposed between the battery cells (100), the cooling medium (400) can be reliably prevented from leaking to the outside through the venting hole (H) that is also opened when the cover member (300) is opened.

[0107]

[0108] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a battery assembly to which a cover member is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0109] The cover member (300) may be positioned on the inside of the frame (200). That is, the cover member (300) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H) from the inside. In particular, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the cover member (300) may be configured to be mounted on the frame (200), for example, the bottom frame (210). The cover member (300) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H) from the inside of the bottom frame (210). The cover member (300) may be positioned between the battery cells (100) and the frame (200), and more specifically, the cover member (300) may be positioned between the battery cells (100) and the bottom frame (210).

[0110] The cover member (300) may be configured to cover at least some of the plurality of venting holes (H). That is, the cover member (300) may be configured to cover at least some of the venting holes (H) at once, rather than covering each of the plurality of venting holes (H).

[0111] Moreover, the cover member (300) may be configured to cover all of the plurality of venting holes (H), as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7. At this time, the cross-sectional area of ​​the cover member (300) may be configured to correspond to the area of ​​the bottom frame (210). According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, the venting holes (H) can be more effectively sealed by the cover member (300). Accordingly, in the case of direct water cooling in which the cooling medium (400) is interposed between the battery cells (100), the cooling medium (400) can be reliably prevented from leaking to the outside through the venting holes (H) that are also opened when the cover member (300) is opened. In addition, according to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, since the process is simplified when manufacturing the battery assembly (10), costs and time can be reduced, thereby improving productivity.

[0112]

[0113] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a structure that can further improve sealing between a cover member (300) and a frame (200).

[0115] For example, as an example, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the cover member (300) may include a folded portion (310). The folded portion (310) may be configured such that the distal end of the cover member (300) is folded and extended in a direction away from the venting hole (H). The folded portion (310) may be configured to be in close contact with the side surface of the frame (200), i.e., the side frame (220).

[0116] As another embodiment, the frame (200) may include an insertion groove (221). The insertion groove (221) may be configured such that at least a portion of the frame (200) is sunken so that the distal end of the cover member (300) is inserted. It is preferable that the insertion groove (221) be formed in the side frame (220).

[0117] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the sealing between the cover member (300) and the frame (200) can be further secured, thereby preventing the cooling medium (400) from flowing into the venting hole (H) through the space between the end of the cover member (300) and the frame (200). In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the fixing force of the cover member (300) to the frame (200) can be improved. Accordingly, even if an impact is applied to the battery assembly (10), the cover member (300) can be prevented from moving or rupturing.

[0118]

[0119] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 11 is a drawing for explaining how a cover member opens when a thermal event occurs in the battery assembly of Fig. 10.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 1, 3, 10, and 11, a battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes, as described above, a plurality of battery cells (100), a frame (200), and a cover member (300). The cover member (300) covers a venting hole (H) of the frame (200). The cover member (300) may be configured to close the venting hole (H), and may also have a portion thereof opened by venting gas discharged from the battery cells (100).

[0121] At this time, the cover member (300) according to the present embodiment may be positioned on the outside of the frame (200). That is, the cover member (300) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H) from the outside. The cover member (300) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H) from the outside of the bottom frame (210). A portion of the frame (200) may be positioned between the cover member (300) and the battery cells (100), and more specifically, the bottom frame (210) may be positioned between the cover member (300) and the battery cells (100). The cover member (300) may be positioned below the bottom frame (210).

[0122] The vent portion (110, see FIG. 3) of the battery cell (100) may face the venting hole (H) formed in the frame (200). At this time, the width of the venting hole (H) may be narrower than the width of the battery cell (100) to prevent the battery cell (100) from being inserted into the venting hole (H).

[0123] There is no particular limitation on the method by which the cover member (300) is attached to the frame (200). For example, the cover member (300) may be attached to the frame (200) by applying an adhesive or ultrasonic welding.

[0124] The cover member (300) can prevent venting gas and the like from being discharged to the outside of the frame (200) under normal conditions. Accordingly, the cover member (300) can stably maintain covering the venting hole (H) under normal conditions of the battery cell (100). In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member (300) can be configured to normally close the venting hole (H) from the outside so that foreign substances from the outside cannot enter the inside of the frame (200).

[0125] Furthermore, referring to FIG. 11, the cover member (300) may be configured to be opened by the venting gas. That is, the cover member (300) may be configured to normally remain attached to the frame (200) to cover the venting hole (H) and to be opened under specific circumstances. Specifically, the cover member (300) may be configured to be opened by the pressure or heat of the venting gas when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100). For example, the cover member (300) may be opened by being released from its attachment to the frame (200), being partially ruptured by the pressure of the venting gas, or being melted by the heat of the venting gas.

[0126] When an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), the cover member (300) is opened, and the venting gas can pass through the venting hole (H) and a portion of the ruptured or melted cover member (300) as indicated by the bold arrow in FIG. 11, and be smoothly discharged to the outside of the frame (200). Thus, when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), the pressure inside the battery assembly (10) is prevented from increasing, and additional chain fires in other battery cells (100) can be prevented. Therefore, according to the above aspect of the present invention, the safety and reliability of the battery assembly (10) can be guaranteed.

[0127] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting holes (H) provided on one side of the battery cells (100) other than the specific battery cell (100) in which the event occurred are maintained in a closed state by the cover member (300), it is possible to suppress or prevent the venting gas discharged to the outside of the battery assembly (10) from affecting the other adjacent battery cells (100). As a result, additional chain fires of the other battery cells (100) can be more effectively prevented.

[0128] Meanwhile, the cover member (300) may be configured to be broken by the pressure of the venting gas. Alternatively, the cover member (300) may be configured to be at least partially melted by the heat of the flame. That is, the cover member (300) may be configured to open only a portion facing the vent portion (110) through which the venting gas is vented when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100). Accordingly, even if the cover member (300) is opened, the venting hole (H) is not completely opened, but only a portion thereof is opened, thereby preventing the cooling medium (400) from leaking to the outside through the venting hole (H).

[0129] Except that the cover member (300) is located on the outside of the frame (2000), the material and shape of the cover member (300) may be identical or similar to the cover member (300) described above in FIGS. 4 and 5, etc. Detailed descriptions of the cover member (300) and the frame (200) are omitted as they overlap with the previously described contents.

[0130] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 12 may be a drawing illustrating a cross-section taken along line I-I' of Fig. 1. In addition, Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a holder applied to a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, a battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a holder (500). The holder (500) may be configured to at least partially accommodate a battery cell (100). For example, the top frame (230) may be configured to accommodate an upper portion of the battery cell (100), and the holder (500) may be configured to accommodate a lower portion of the battery cell (100).

[0132] The holder (500) may be positioned on the inside of the cover member (300). In addition, the holder (500) may be positioned on the inside of the frame (200). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, when the venting hole (H) is provided at the bottom, the holder (500) may be positioned on the upper portion of the cover member (300). In this case, the holder (500) may be configured to be seated on the cover member (300). That is, the holder (500) may be seated on the upper surface of the flat cover member (300).

[0133] Specifically, the holder (500) may include a receiving portion (510) and a spacer (520). The receiving portion (510) may be configured to at least partially receive a battery cell (100). A plurality of receiving portions (510) may be provided, and a plurality of battery cells (100) may be respectively received in the plurality of receiving portions (510). The battery cell (100) may be inserted into the receiving portion (510) in an upright state, thereby preventing movement in the up, down, left, and right directions. Meanwhile, as an example, when the battery cell (100) is provided as a cylindrical cell, the plurality of receiving portions (510) may be provided in a cylindrical shape.

[0134] The battery cell (100) may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is inserted into the receiving portion (510) while the side with the vent portion (110) is in contact with the cover member (300). That is, the holder (500) and the battery cell (100) may be configured such that they are in contact with the cover member (300) simultaneously.

[0135] A spacer (520) may be provided between adjacent receiving portions (510) among a plurality of receiving portions (510). The spacer (520) may be provided in a form that protrudes upward from the main body of the holder (500). The spacer (520) may be configured to maintain a gap between the battery cells (100). In addition, the spacer (520) may be configured to guide the insertion of the battery cells (100) into the receiving portions (510) when assembling the battery cells (100).

[0136]

[0137] Fig. 14 is a top view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 14 may be a drawing illustrating a cross-section taken along line II-II' of Fig. 1.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 14, a battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an adhesive (600).

[0139] The battery assembly (10) can be formed into a single unit by filling an adhesive (600) between a plurality of battery cells (100). That is, the adhesive (600) can be filled in a space formed between a plurality of battery cells (100). The adhesive (600) can be configured to be filled between the battery cells (100) to fix the battery cells (100) to each other.

[0140] The adhesive (600) may be configured to at least partially cover a plurality of battery cells (100). Referring to FIG. 12, the adhesive (600) may cover the upper and lower sides of the battery cells (100) in the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the battery assembly (10) to form the structure of the battery assembly (10) together with the frame (200). In particular, the adhesive (600) may be configured to maintain the spacing between the battery cells (100) when the holder (500) is not provided. This may increase the structural rigidity of the battery assembly (10).

[0141] The adhesive (600) may be provided on at least one side of the frame (200). Referring to FIG. 12, the adhesive (600) may be provided on the inside of the bottom frame (210) to cover one side of the battery cell (100). Additionally, the adhesive (600) may be provided on the outside of the top frame (230) to cover the other side of the battery cell (100). As in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 14, when a holder (500) is provided, the adhesive (600) may be interposed between the holders (500), i.e., between the spacers (520).

[0142] The adhesive (600) may be configured to prevent the penetration of moisture or foreign substances. In particular, the adhesive (600) may be provided on both sides of the cooling path through which the cooling medium (400) is interposed, thereby preventing the cooling medium (400) from leaking out of the battery assembly (10). The adhesive (600) may prevent the cooling medium (400) from leaking out through the receiving hole of the top frame (230) or the venting hole (H) of the bottom frame (210).

[0143] In addition, the adhesive (600) can increase the heat dissipation efficiency of a plurality of battery cells (100), thereby further enhancing the cooling performance of the battery cells (100). The adhesive (600) can be formed of any material capable of improving the fixation and heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cells (100). As a result, a chain reaction of fire can be prevented when a thermal event occurs due to an abnormality in the battery cells (100).

[0144] In addition, the adhesive (600) can perform an insulating role to prevent current flow to an adjacent battery cell (100) when damage or other abnormalities occur in at least one specific battery cell (100) among a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0145]

[0146] FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 15 may be an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 12.

[0147] A predetermined gap may be formed between the battery cell (100) and the spacer (520), and an adhesive (600) may be applied between the battery cells (100) while the battery cells (100) are coupled to the holder (500). Accordingly, the adhesive (600) may be interposed between the battery cell (100) and the spacer (520).

[0148] When the venting gas is discharged from the battery cell (100) and the cover member (300) and the venting hole (H) are opened, the cooling medium (400) may leak to the outside through the opened venting hole (H). Moreover, the cooling medium (400) may move to the space between the spacer (520) and the battery cell (100) and leak to the outside through the receiving portion (510). However, according to the above-described embodiment, since the adhesive (600) is interposed between the battery cell (100) and the spacer (520), the cooling medium (400) may be prevented from moving to the space between the spacer (520) and the battery cell (100) and leaking to the outside of the space in which the battery cell (100) is accommodated through the receiving portion (510).

[0149] Meanwhile, the spacer (520) may include a portion whose thickness becomes narrower as it goes in one direction. That is, a portion may be provided in which the gap between the battery cell (100) and the spacer (520) becomes wider as it goes in one direction. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15, the spacer (520) may include a portion whose thickness becomes thinner as it goes upward. In this case, the lower portion of the spacer (520) is in almost contact with the battery cell (100), and the spacer (520) may be configured such that the distance from the battery cell (100) increases as it goes upward.

[0150] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive (600) can be guided to be accommodated in the space between the spacer (520) and the battery cell (100). Accordingly, the space between the spacer (520) and the battery cell (100) can be more reliably sealed, thereby more effectively preventing the cooling medium (400) from leaking to the outside.

[0151]

[0152] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0153] The adhesive (600) may be interposed between the battery cell (100) and the frame (200). In particular, when the holder (500) is provided, the adhesive (600) may be interposed between the holder (500) and the frame (200). The adhesive (600) has a greater risk of leaking between the battery cell (100) and the frame (200). Accordingly, in order to prevent the adhesive (600) from leaking to the outside, the frame (200) may include a filling groove (222). The filling groove (222) may be configured to be filled with the adhesive (600).

[0154] Referring to FIG. 16, the filling groove (222) may be provided particularly in the side frame (220). For example, the filling groove (222) may be provided at a position where the side frame (220) faces the battery cell (100). The filling groove (222) may be configured such that at least a portion of the inner surface of the side frame (220) is recessed inward.

[0155] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when the adhesive (600) is filled between the battery cell (100) and the side frame (220), it can be guided to the filling groove (222) so as to be filled between the battery cell (100) and the side frame (220). As a result, the cooling medium (400) can be more effectively prevented from leaking to the outside through the venting hole (H).

[0156]

[0157] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0158] The battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a structure that can improve the fixing force of the holder (500) and the frame (200). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17, the holder (500) and the frame (200) may include a male-female coupling structure. Specifically, the frame (200) may include a coupling protrusion (223) configured such that at least a portion thereof protrudes inward, and the holder (500) may include a coupling groove (530) configured such that the coupling protrusion (223) is inserted therein. The coupling protrusion (223) and the coupling groove (530) may be configured to be compatible with each other.

[0159] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the fixing force of the holder (500) and the frame (200) is improved, thereby improving the sealing force or adhesion between the holder (500) and the frame (200). In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the space between the holder (500) and the frame (200) can be minimized, the cooling medium (400) can be prevented from leaking into the space between the holder (500) and the frame (200).

[0160]

[0161] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly to which an outer case is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of another part of the battery assembly to which an outer case is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0162] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an outer case (700). The outer case (700) may be provided on the outside of the frame (200). A venting path (S) configured to allow venting gas to flow may be formed between the outer case (700) and the frame (200). The venting path (S) may be configured to communicate with the venting hole (H). The structure of the venting path (S) may be provided as a bulkhead path structure to prevent the venting gas from moving to an empty space outside the frame (200). A detailed structure of the venting path (S) will be described later.

[0163] In this way, a plurality of battery cells (100) can be accommodated inside the outer case (700) while being supported by the frame (200). As in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19, if the vent portion (110) of the battery cell (100) included in the battery assembly (10) is formed on the lower side of the battery cell (100), the high-temperature gas discharged downward through the vent portion (110) can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery assembly (10) through the venting path (S) between the bottom frame (210) and the outer case (700).

[0164] The venting path (S) according to the present embodiment may be provided below the venting hole (H). Venting gas discharged from the vent portion (110) of the battery cell (100) may pass through the venting hole (H) and move to the venting path (S). The venting gas that moves to the venting path (S) may be discharged to the outside.

[0165] In this way, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (100) and high-temperature gas or flames are generated, the battery assembly (10) according to the present invention can direct the venting gas in a specific direction rather than all directions through the venting path (S) and discharge it to the outside, and in the process of discharging the venting gas to the outside, other battery cells (100) can be prevented from receiving thermal damage as much as possible.

[0166] The outer case (700) may further include a rib (710) configured to divide the venting duct (S) into a plurality of sections. The rib (710) may be mounted on the outer case (700) to prevent movement of venting gas in a direction crossing the rib (710).

[0167] A plurality of ribs (710) may be provided and arranged to be spaced apart from each other in one direction. Accordingly, at least one venting path (S) through which venting gas flows may be defined by a plurality of ribs (710) that are spaced apart from each other. According to FIG. 3, an example in which the ribs (710) are spaced apart in the left-right direction is given.

[0168] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 19, the outer case (700) may include a discharge unit (720). The discharge unit (720) may be configured to discharge venting gas to the outside. The discharge unit (720) may be configured to communicate with a venting path (S). Accordingly, the venting gas discharged to the venting path (S) through the venting hole (H) may flow toward the discharge unit (720) through the venting path (S), and this venting gas may be discharged to the outside of the outer case (700) through the discharge unit (720).

[0169] In addition, the discharge portion (720) may be symmetrically provided on both sides of the outer case (700). Since the discharge portion (720) is provided on both sides of the outer case (700), in the event of an abnormal situation of the battery cell (100), high-temperature gas and flames can be discharged in both directions of the outer case (700), making it easy to discharge venting gas, etc. to the outside of the outer case (700). In Fig. 19, the discharge portion (720) is provided at the rear of the outer case (700), but it may be provided at another location.

[0170] The rib (710) may be configured to guide the venting gas to the discharge portion (720). That is, the rib (710) may be provided to extend toward the discharge portion (720). Since the structure of the rib (710) allows the venting gas and the like to move only toward the discharge portion (720), the high-temperature venting gas and flame are guided toward the discharge portion (720), so that even if a thermal event occurs in any battery cell (100), the gas and the like can be prevented from moving to other adjacent battery cells (100) and causing a chain reaction of explosions. In addition, the rib (710) may serve as a kind of barrier, thereby preventing the gas discharged from the battery cells (100) included in the battery assembly (10) from spreading in all directions. Accordingly, according to the present embodiment, the venting gas is quickly guided from the outside of the battery assembly (10) toward the exhaust portion (720), so that there is less possibility of it spreading in all directions from the outside of the battery assembly (10), thereby preventing further chain ignition.

[0171] In addition, when gas is generally emitted from a battery cell (100), pieces of electrode plates or active materials inside the battery cell (100) may be emitted to the outside in a high-temperature state, and these high-temperature particles may appear in the form of sparks. The battery assembly (10) according to the present invention prevents high-temperature particles from easily escaping directly to the outside of the external case (700) even when they are emitted from the battery cell (100), and allows them to escape by sufficiently lowering the temperature while being guided toward the discharge portion (720) through the venting path (S), which is the space between the bottom frame (210) and the external case (700), thereby preventing them from acting as a source of ignition outside the battery assembly (10).

[0172] Moreover, according to the present invention, a path for venting gas to move using the bottom frame (230) and the discharge portion (720) is formed at the bottom of the battery assembly (10), and the venting gas can be discharged in one target direction, for example, the direction in which the discharge portion (720) is formed.

[0173] According to the above-described embodiment, in the event that high-temperature gas or flames are emitted from the battery cell (100) in a situation such as thermal runaway, the emitted gas or flames may not be directed upwards. In particular, in a case where a passenger is positioned above the battery assembly (10), such as in an electric vehicle, the above-described embodiment can suppress or delay the gas or flames from being directed toward the passenger. In particular, according to one embodiment of the present invention, by directional venting being performed downward and laterally of the battery assembly (10), the safety of users positioned above, such as passengers, can be enhanced.

[0174]

[0175] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 21 is a drawing for explaining how a cover member opens when a thermal event occurs in the battery assembly of Fig. 20.

[0176] Referring to FIGS. 1, 3, 20, and 21, a battery assembly (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention includes, as described above, a plurality of battery cells (100), a frame (200), and a cover member (800). The cover member (800) covers a venting hole (H) of the frame (200). The cover member (800) may be configured to close the venting hole (H), and may also have a portion thereof opened by venting gas discharged from the battery cells (100).

[0177] At this time, the cover member (800) according to the present embodiment may include a receiving portion (810) that at least partially receives the battery cell (100). That is, the cover member (800) according to the present embodiment may include a receiving portion (810) that receives the battery cell (100) while covering the venting hole (H) of the frame (200). The cover member (800) according to the present embodiment may be in a form in which the cover member (300) and the holder (500) of FIG. 15 described above are integrated into one component.

[0178] The receiving portion (810) may be provided in multiple numbers, and configured such that multiple battery cells (100) are each received in each of the multiple receiving portions (810). The battery cell (100) may be inserted into the receiving portion (810) in an upright state, thereby preventing movement in the up, down, left, and right directions. Meanwhile, as an example, when the battery cell (100) is provided as a cylindrical cell, the multiple receiving portions (810) may be provided in a cylindrical shape.

[0179] Additionally, the cover member (800) may include a bottom part (830) facing the vent part (110) of the battery cell (100).

[0180] The battery cell (100) may be inserted into the receiving portion (810) at least partially, and at the same time, the portion provided with the vent portion (110) may be brought into contact with the bottom part (830). That is, when the battery cell (100) is inserted into the receiving portion (810), the vent portion (110) may face the bottom part (830).

[0181] The bottom part (830) can cover the venting hole (H) on the inside of the frame (200). The bottom part (830) can be positioned between the battery cell (100) and the frame (200). Specifically, the bottom part (830) can be positioned between the battery cell (100) and the bottom frame (210). The bottom part (830) can be positioned on the bottom frame (210).

[0182] The cover member (800) can prevent venting gas and the like from being discharged to the outside of the frame (200) under normal conditions. Accordingly, the cover member (800) can stably maintain covering the venting hole (H) under normal conditions of the battery cell (100). In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member (800) can be configured to normally close the venting hole (H) from the inside to prevent foreign substances from entering the inside of the frame (200).

[0183] Furthermore, referring to FIG. 21, the cover member (800) may be configured to be opened by a venting gas. In the case of a battery cell (100) accommodated in the accommodation portion (810) of the cover member (800), the venting hole (H) is normally kept covered by the bottom part (830) and may be opened under certain circumstances. Specifically, the cover member (800), particularly the bottom part (830), may be configured to be opened by the pressure or heat of the venting gas when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100). For example, the bottom part (830) may be partially ruptured by the pressure of the venting gas or melted by the heat of the venting gas and opened.

[0184] When an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), the cover member (800), particularly the bottom part (830), is opened, so that the venting gas can pass through the venting hole (H) and a portion of the ruptured or melted cover member (800) as indicated by the bold arrow in FIG. 21, and be smoothly discharged to the outside of the frame (200). Thus, when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), the pressure inside the battery assembly (10) is prevented from increasing, and additional chain fires in other battery cells (100) can be prevented. Therefore, according to the above aspect of the present invention, the safety and reliability of the battery assembly (10) can be guaranteed.

[0185] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting holes (H) provided on one side of the battery cells (100) other than the specific battery cell (100) in which the event occurred are maintained in a closed state by the cover member (800), it is possible to suppress or prevent the venting gas discharged to the outside of the battery assembly (10) from affecting the other adjacent battery cells (100). As a result, additional chain fires of the other battery cells (100) can be more effectively prevented.

[0186] Meanwhile, the bottom part (830) of the cover member (800) may be configured to be broken by the pressure of the venting gas. Alternatively, the bottom part (830) of the cover member (800) may be configured to be at least partially melted by the heat of the flame. That is, the cover member (800) may be configured to open only the portion facing the vent part (110) through which the venting gas is vented when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100). Accordingly, even if the cover member (800) is opened, the venting hole (H) is not completely opened, but only a portion thereof is opened, thereby preventing the cooling medium (400) from leaking to the outside through the venting hole (H).

[0187] There are no special restrictions on the shape or material of the cover member (800), including the bottom part (830), as long as the bottom part (830) can be broken or melted by the venting gas. For example, the bottom part (830) of the cover member (800) may be provided to be sufficiently thin so as to induce the bottom part (830) of the cover member (800) to be broken or melted by the venting gas.

[0188] As another example, a notch may be formed in the bottom part (830) to induce fracture. The notch refers to a portion of the bottom part (830) that is cut to a predetermined thickness. Two regions of the bottom part (830) may be separated by the notches. Since the notch is a weak portion, when the notch is fractured, a portion of the bottom part (830) facing the vent portion (110) is opened, through which venting gas may be discharged.

[0189] Additionally, as another example, a boundary portion having a thickness difference may be formed in the bottom part (830) to induce fracture. A relatively thin portion of the bottom part (830) may face the vent portion (110), and the portion may be fractured or melted by the venting gas discharged from the vent portion (110).

[0190] Additionally, as another example, a plurality of holes may be formed in the bottom part (830) to induce fracture. The plurality of holes may be arranged along a specific line, and two regions of the bottom part (830) may be separated by the line formed by the plurality of holes. Since the line formed by the plurality of holes is a weak area, when the portion of the bottom part (830) corresponding to the line is fractured, a portion of the bottom part (830) facing the vent part (110) is opened, through which the venting gas may be discharged.

[0191] The cover member (800) according to the present embodiment may be an integrated form in which the cover member (300) and the holder (500) of FIG. 15 are integrated into one part, as described above. That is, the cover member (800) can accommodate and fix the battery cells (100) while closing the venting holes (H) of the battery cells (100).

[0192] Meanwhile, the cover member (800) may include a spacer (820) configured to maintain a gap between battery cells (100) by being provided between adjacent receiving portions (810) among a plurality of receiving portions (810). The spacer (820) may be configured to guide the insertion of the battery cell (100) into the receiving portion (810) when assembling the battery cell (100).

[0193] Additionally, an adhesive (600) may be interposed between the spacers (820). This adhesive (600) may be configured to prevent the infiltration of moisture or foreign substances. In particular, the adhesive (600) may be provided on both sides of the cooling channel through which the cooling medium is interposed, thereby preventing the cooling medium from leaking out of the battery assembly (10). The adhesive (600) may prevent the cooling medium from leaking out through the venting hole (H) of the bottom frame (210), etc.

[0194] A predetermined gap may be formed between the battery cell (100) and the spacer (820), and an adhesive (600) may be applied between the battery cells (100) while the battery cells (100) are accommodated in the accommodation portion (810). Accordingly, the adhesive (600) may be interposed between the battery cell (100) and the spacer (820).

[0195] When the venting gas is discharged from the battery cell (100) and the bottom part (830) of the cover member (800) and the venting hole (H) are opened, the cooling medium may leak to the outside through the opened venting hole (H). Moreover, the cooling medium may move to the space between the spacer (820) and the battery cell (100) and leak to the outside through the receiving portion (810). However, according to the above-described embodiment, since the adhesive (600) is interposed between the battery cell (100) and the spacer (820), the cooling medium may be prevented from moving to the space between the spacer (820) and the battery cell (100) and leaking to the outside of the space in which the battery cell (100) is accommodated through the receiving portion (810).

[0196] Meanwhile, the spacer (820) may include a portion whose thickness becomes narrower as it goes in one direction. That is, a portion may be provided in which the gap between the battery cell (100) and the spacer (820) becomes wider as it goes in one direction. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 20, the spacer (820) may include a portion whose thickness becomes thinner as it goes upward. In this case, the lower portion of the spacer (820) may be in almost contact with the battery cell (100), and the spacer (820) may be configured such that the distance from the battery cell (100) increases as it goes upward. According to this embodiment, the adhesive (600) may be guided to be accommodated in the space between the spacer (820) and the battery cell (100). Accordingly, the space between the spacer (820) and the battery cell (100) may be more reliably sealed, thereby more effectively preventing the cooling medium from leaking to the outside.

[0197]

[0198] FIG. 22 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0199] Referring to FIG. 22, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention may include one or more battery assemblies (10) according to the present invention described above. In addition, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery assembly (10) according to the present invention. For example, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include components of a battery pack known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a BMS (Battery Management System), a bus bar, a relay, a current sensor, etc.

[0200] In addition, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include a pack case (2) as shown in FIG. 22. This pack case (2) may provide a space in which a battery assembly (10) according to the present invention can be stored. In particular, when a plurality of battery assemblies (10) are included in the battery pack (1), the pack case (2) may be partitioned into a space for storing the plurality of battery assemblies (10) in a divided manner through a cross beam (3) or the like.

[0201] This pack case (2) may be the external case (700) illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19. Accordingly, the pack case (2) may be provided with a discharge portion (720, 4). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas discharged through the venting hole (H) of the battery assembly (10) can be discharged to the outside of the pack case (2) through the discharge portion (720), so that thermal runaway propagation of the battery pack (1) unit can be prevented.

[0202]

[0203] FIG. 23 is a schematic perspective view showing the inside of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0204] Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, a battery pack (1) according to the present invention includes a battery assembly (10) according to the present invention, but does not include a separate pack case (2), and may be configured such that the assembly cover (11) and the outer case (700) of the battery assembly (10) function as the pack case (2). In this case, components of the battery pack, such as a BMS, a bus bar, and a relay, may be included inside the outer case (700). A battery pack (1) of this type is also called a cell-to-pack (CTP) in that the battery cells (100) are directly stored in the pack case (2). Recently, development of such CTP-type battery packs has also been active, and the present invention can be applied to such CTP-type battery packs. In particular, a cover member (300) is provided on the inside of the frame (200), so that the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1) can be secured.

[0205] And, this pack case (2) may be the external case (700) illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19. The pack case (2) is provided with the above-described exhaust port (720), so that the venting gas discharged from the plurality of battery cells (100) can be discharged to the outside of the pack case (2) through the exhaust port (720), thereby preventing thermal runaway propagation in the battery pack (1) unit.

[0206]

[0207] FIG. 25 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 25, 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. 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) may operate by receiving power from a battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0209]

[0210] 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.

[0211] Description of the symbol

[0212] V: Car

[0213] 1: Battery pack

[0214] 2: Pack Case

[0215] 3: Cross beam

[0216] 4: Venting device

[0217] 10: Battery assembly

[0218] 11: Assembly cover

[0219] 100: Battery cells

[0220] 110: Vent

[0221] 200: Frame

[0222] 210: Bottom Frame

[0223] 220: Side Frame

[0224] 221: Insertion groove

[0225] 222: Filling home

[0226] 223: Combination protrusion

[0227] 230: Top Frame

[0228] H: Venting Hall

[0229] 300, 800: Cover absence

[0230] 310: Bend section

[0231] 400: Cooling medium

[0232] 500: Holder

[0233] 510: Reception area

[0234] 520: Spacer

[0235] 530: Combination Home

[0236] 600: Adhesive

[0237] 700: External case

[0238] 710: Live

[0239] 720: Exhaust

[0240] S: Venting Euro

Claims

1. A plurality of battery cells each having a vent portion configured to discharge venting gas; A frame configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a plurality of venting holes formed at positions corresponding to the vent portion; and A battery assembly characterized by including a cover member that covers the venting hole and is configured to be opened by the venting gas.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly further characterized by comprising a cooling medium configured to be filled between the battery cells.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly, characterized in that the cover member is located on the inner side of the frame.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly, characterized in that the cover member is configured to cover at least a portion of the plurality of venting holes.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly characterized in that the cover member includes a bending portion configured such that the distal end is bent and extended in a direction away from the venting hole.

6. In paragraph 1, The above frame is A battery assembly characterized by including an insertion groove configured such that at least a portion of the insertion groove is sunken so that a distal end of the cover member is inserted therein.

7. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly, characterized in that the cover member is located on the outer side of the frame.

8. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly further comprising a holder positioned on the inner side of the cover member and configured to at least partially accommodate the battery cell.

9. In paragraph 8, The above holder a plurality of receiving portions configured to accommodate at least a portion of each battery cell; A battery assembly characterized by including a spacer provided between adjacent receptacles among the plurality of receptacles and configured to maintain a gap between the battery cells.

10. In paragraph 9, A battery assembly further comprising an adhesive filled between the battery cells to secure the battery cells to one another.

11. In paragraph 10, The above adhesive is A battery assembly characterized by being interposed between the battery cell and the spacer.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery assembly, characterized in that the spacer includes a portion whose thickness becomes narrower in one direction.

13. In paragraph 10, The above adhesive is interposed between the battery cell and the frame, A battery assembly, characterized in that the frame includes a filling groove configured to be filled with the adhesive.

14. In paragraph 8, The above frame comprises a joining projection configured such that at least a portion thereof protrudes inwardly; A battery assembly characterized in that the holder includes a coupling groove configured to allow the coupling projection to be inserted.

15. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly wherein the cover member includes a receiving portion that at least partially receives the battery cell.

16. In paragraph 15, The above cover member is a battery assembly including a bottom part facing the vent part.

17. In paragraph 15, A battery assembly wherein the cover member includes a spacer provided between adjacent ones of the plurality of receptacles to maintain a gap between the battery cells.

18. In paragraph 1, A venting path is provided below the above venting hole, A battery assembly in which the venting gas discharged from the vent portion of the battery cell passes through the venting hole and moves to the venting path.

19. In paragraph 1, Further comprising an external case provided on the outside of the above frame, A battery assembly characterized in that a venting path is formed between the frame and the outer case so as to be in communication with the venting hole.

20. In paragraph 19, The above outer case A battery assembly characterized in that it further includes a rib configured to divide the above venting urea into a plurality of parts.

21. In paragraph 20, The above outer case is connected to the venting duct and includes a discharge portion configured to discharge the venting gas to the outside. A battery assembly, characterized in that the rib is configured to guide the venting gas to the exhaust port.

22. A battery pack comprising a battery assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. A vehicle comprising a battery assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

Images