Battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery cells; and a pack case including a body frame, which is configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and has an open end formed on at least one side thereof, and a cover frame, which is provided at the open end of the body frame so as to be located on the side from which venting gas is discharged from the plurality of battery cells and has a cooling flow path formed in an inner space and configured so that a cooling medium flows.

Description

Battery pack and vehicle including same

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack, and more particularly, to a battery pack with enhanced safety and a vehicle including the same.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0000306, filed on January 2, 2024, 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 battery types 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 battery pack.

[0005] When connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel to form a battery pack, it's common to first construct a battery module containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery module to add other components to form a battery pack or battery rack. Recently, battery packs in the cell-to-pack form, where multiple battery cells are housed directly in a pack housing or other device, without modularization, have also been manufactured.

[0006] However, when multiple battery modules are included within a battery pack, they can be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between the modules. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery module, this thermal runaway can propagate to other battery modules. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules is not adequately controlled, an event occurring in a specific battery module can trigger a chain reaction across multiple battery modules, potentially resulting in major problems such as explosions or fires.

[0007] In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery module, venting gases, etc., may be released outside the battery module. If the heat from the venting gases is not properly cooled, the heat may be transferred to other battery modules, potentially triggering a thermal chain reaction in those modules.

[0008] Accordingly, conventional battery packs have incorporated flame-retardant materials into their cooling systems, either on the bottom surface or between battery modules, to minimize the accumulation of heat energy in adjacent battery modules. However, while these conventional battery packs can cool the bottom surfaces of battery modules, they are insufficient to cool venting gases emitted in the event of a thermal runaway event within the battery module.

[0009] Therefore, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a battery pack, there is a need to develop a structure to improve the cooling performance of the battery pack by more efficiently cooling the heat, such as the venting gas, emitted.

[0010] Accordingly, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack having improved cooling performance and an automobile including the same, by improving the structure so as to appropriately manage heat or venting gas discharged from a battery module.

[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] In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a pack case having a plurality of battery cells; a main body frame configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and have an open end formed on at least one side; and a cover frame provided on the open end of the main body frame so as to be positioned on a side through which venting gas is discharged from the plurality of battery cells, and having a cooling channel formed in an internal space thereof configured to allow a cooling medium to flow.

[0013] The above cover frame is arranged on at least one side of the cooling channel in the internal space, and a venting channel configured to allow the venting gas to flow can be formed.

[0014] The above cooling path and the above venting path can be arranged in parallel along the outer to inner direction of the cover frame.

[0015] The above cooling path may be provided outside the above venting path.

[0016] The module case may further include a module configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells by grouping them, and having a venting hole formed on at least one side thereof to allow the venting gas to be discharged to the outside.

[0017] The above cover frame may have a gas inlet configured to face the venting hole.

[0018] The cover frame may be positioned at the upper portion of the module case, and the venting hole may be formed on the upper surface of the module case and configured to communicate with the gas inlet.

[0019] The gas inlet may further include a cover member configured to be opened by heat or pressure.

[0020] The above cover frame may include a partition provided between the venting passage and the cooling passage.

[0021] The above bulkhead may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is openable by venting gas within the venting passage.

[0022] The above cover frame may further include a guide member configured to protrude from the surface of the bulkhead toward the venting path.

[0023] The above cooling path may be configured to partially protrude toward the venting path.

[0024] The above cooling path and the above venting path can be arranged along a horizontal direction.

[0025] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0026] According to one aspect of the present invention, efficient cooling performance and safe venting performance of a battery pack can be secured.

[0027] Moreover, according to another aspect of the present invention, even if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a specific battery module, it is possible to effectively suppress heat from spreading to other battery modules by cooling venting gas generated in the battery module.

[0028] In this way, thermal runaway propagation between battery modules can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0029] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, events resulting from thermal runaway of a device equipped with a battery pack, such as fire or explosion, can be prevented or delayed.

[0030] In addition, the present invention may have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment configuration, or the description of effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0031] 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.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 3 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0035] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 4 may be a drawing showing the cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0036] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 5 may be a drawing showing the cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0037] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of a cover frame included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a gas inlet.

[0038] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a gas exhaust port.

[0039] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment in which a cover member is applied to a battery pack according to another embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing an embodiment in which at least a portion of a bulkhead is opened.

[0041] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing one embodiment in which a guide member is provided in a bulkhead.

[0042] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing one embodiment of a cooling channel configured to protrude at least a portion thereof.

[0043] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 12 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section II-II' of Fig. 1.

[0044] FIG. 13 is a top view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051]

[0052] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 may be a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (100) and a pack case (200).

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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 (1) 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).

[0058] The pack case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The pack case (200) may be provided in a box shape including a plurality of frames. The pack case (200) may be made of a material that can ensure mechanical rigidity, such as a metal such as steel or SUS, or a plastic, or may include such a material, in order to safely protect the battery cells (100) accommodated therein.

[0059] Specifically, the pack case (200) may include a main body frame (210) and a cover frame (220).

[0060] The main body frame (210) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The main body frame (210) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). In addition, the main body frame (210) may be configured to surround the sides of the plurality of battery cells (100). In addition, the main body frame (210) may be configured to have an open end formed on at least one side.

[0061] The cover frame (220) may be provided at the open end of the main body frame (210). The cover frame (220) may be coupled to the main body frame (210). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in the drawing, the main body frame (210) may have an open end at the upper end, and the cover frame (220) may be provided at the open upper end to cover the upper portions of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0062] The cover frame (220) may be positioned on the side where venting gas is discharged from the plurality of battery cells (100). Specifically, the cover frame (220) is provided at a predetermined distance from the plurality of battery cells (100), and the venting gas generated from the battery cells (100) may flow in the space formed between the cover frame (220) and the battery cells (100). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in the drawing, the venting gas is discharged through the upper portion of the battery cells (100), and the cover frame (220) may be provided on the upper portion of the battery cells (100).

[0063] A cooling passage (CP) may be formed in the cover frame (220). The cooling passage (CP) may refer to a passage configured to allow a cooling medium such as coolant to flow. The cooling passage (CP) may be formed in the internal space of the cover frame (220). That is, an empty space is formed in the interior of the cover frame (220) through which a cooling medium such as coolant can flow, and the space may be defined as a cooling passage (CP).

[0064] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling path (CP) of the cover frame (220) is formed on the side where the venting gas is discharged from the battery cell (100), a high-temperature venting gas or a fluid such as a flame can be directly cooled. That is, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, heat such as the venting gas discharged from the battery cell (100) when a thermal event occurs can be more efficiently controlled. As a result, the cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be secured.

[0065] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, heat propagation to adjacent battery cells (100) can be minimized. Accordingly, thermal runaway propagation within the battery pack (1) can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1).

[0066]

[0067] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be modularized into one or more battery modules (10). That is, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention includes a plurality of battery modules (10), and the plurality of battery cells (100) included in the battery pack (1) may be divided and included in a plurality of battery modules (10). At this time, the plurality of battery cells (100) included in the battery module (10) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0068] In particular, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention may include a module case (11). The module case (11) may be configured to have an empty space formed therein so as to accommodate at least some of the plurality of battery cells (100) in the internal space. That is, the module case (11) groups the plurality of battery cells (100) into several battery modules (10) and may serve as a boundary that physically limits the internal space of each battery module (10).

[0069] 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.

[0070] The battery module (10) may include a venting hole (12). The venting hole (12) may be configured to allow gas generated from a battery cell (100) housed inside the module case (11) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (11).

[0071] Specifically, a venting hole (12) may be provided in the module case (11) to enable directional venting in a specific direction. The venting hole (12) may be provided on at least one side of the module case (11). Meanwhile, the number or location of the venting holes (12) described based on the embodiment of FIG. 2 is merely an example, and may be changed to various other numbers or locations.

[0072]

[0073] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the main body frame (210) may include a base frame (211) and a plurality of side frames (212).

[0074] The base frame (211) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100) or battery modules (10). The base frame (211) may form the lower surface of the pack case (200) and may be provided in the shape of a square plate. In addition, the base frame (211) may be provided with a flat upper surface so that the battery cells (100) may be stably accommodated.

[0075] This base frame (211) can have a cooling path (CP) formed in its internal space. That is, a hollow space can be formed inside the base frame (211) so that a cooling medium can flow through the hollow space.

[0076] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the bottom surface of the battery cell (100) or the battery module (10) can be cooled, heat energy accumulation in the battery cell (100) can be minimized. In particular, the cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be secured by minimizing heat generation in the battery cell (100) due to the charge / discharge cycle in the normal state of the battery pack (1).

[0077] A plurality of side frames (212) may be provided to extend upward from each corner of the base frame (211). The plurality of side frames (212) may be provided to surround a plurality of battery cells (100) or battery modules (10). More specifically, the plurality of side frames (212) may be provided as a right wall located at the +X direction side end of the base frame (211), 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 pack case (200).

[0078] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the pack case (200) may include a venting device (213). The venting device (213) may be configured to discharge gas generated from the battery cell (100) to the outside of the pack case (200). That is, the venting gas discharged from the venting hole (12), etc., may be discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting device (213).

[0079] The venting device (213) may be configured to open by the pressure of the venting gas when the venting gas is generated inside the pack case (200) and the internal pressure increases, thereby discharging the venting gas to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0080] For example, the venting device (213) may be configured to open and close depending on the internal pressure within the pack case (200). Alternatively, the venting device (213) may be configured in the form of a hole. Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the venting device (213), and various venting devices (213) known at the time of filing of the present invention may be employed to configure the battery pack (1) of the present invention.

[0081] Specifically, the venting device (213) may be provided on the side of the main body frame (210), i.e., the side frame (212). A plurality of venting devices (213) may be provided. The venting device (213) may be provided on at least one side frame (212) among a plurality of side frames (212). The venting device (213) may be separately formed on two or more side frames (212), or two or more may be formed on one side frame (212).

[0082] Meanwhile, the number or location of the venting devices (213) described based on the embodiment of FIG. 2, etc., is merely an example, and can be changed to various other numbers or locations, of course.

[0083] In addition, the pack case (200) may include a cross beam (214). The cross beam (214) may be configured to partition the internal space of the pack case (200). That is, the cross beam (214) may be configured to partition a plurality of battery cells (100) or battery modules (10). The cross beam (214) may be configured to extend along the left-right direction and / or the front-back direction of the pack case (200). A plurality of such cross beams (214) may be provided.

[0084] Meanwhile, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an inlet port (I) configured to allow a cooling medium to be introduced from the outside into a cooling passage (CP) inside the battery pack (1), and an outlet port (O) configured to allow a cooling medium to be discharged from the cooling passage (CP) inside the battery pack (1) to the outside. The inlet port (I) and the outlet port (O) may be provided in a base frame (211).

[0085] At this time, the inlet port (I) and the outlet port (O) may be provided not only in the base frame (211) but also in the cover frame (220). This allows the cooling medium to flow from the outside of the battery pack (1) to the cooling passage (CP) inside the base frame (211) and the cover frame (220).

[0086]

[0087] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to still another embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figs. 4 and 5 may be drawings illustrating a cross-section taken along line I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the cover frame (220) may be configured to form a venting path (VP) in its internal space. That is, an empty space through which a venting gas or the like can flow is formed within the cover frame (220), and the space may be defined as a venting path (VP). Accordingly, the venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) may be configured to flow into the venting path (VP) formed in the internal space of the pack case (200).

[0089] That is, the cover frame (220) may be configured so that a venting path (VP) and a cooling path (CP) are formed together inside. At this time, the venting path (VP) may be provided on at least one side of the cooling path (CP). In particular, the venting path (VP) and the cooling path (CP) may be configured to be in contact with each other. Accordingly, the venting gas, etc. inside the venting path (VP) may be configured to contact the cooling path (CP).

[0090] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, a venting path (VP) is provided inside the cover frame (220), thereby enabling venting gas to be discharged more smoothly in the direction in which the venting gas is discharged from the battery cell (100). As a result, heat transmission to other adjacent battery modules (10) can be more efficiently suppressed or prevented.

[0091] Moreover, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting path (VP) and the cooling path (CP) are provided together inside the cover frame (220), when thermal runaway of the battery cell (100) occurs, the heat of the venting gas or flame inside the venting path (VP) can be quickly cooled by the cooling medium of the cooling path (CP). That is, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas or the like can be introduced and flowed into the cover frame (220) and simultaneously cooled by the cooling medium. Accordingly, the heat of the venting gas or the like discharged can be controlled more efficiently, thereby ensuring the cooling performance of the battery pack (1).

[0092]

[0093] In particular, the venting path (VP) and the cooling path (CP) may be arranged from the outside to the inside of the cover frame (220). That is, the venting path (VP) and the cooling path (CP) may be arranged along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the venting gas and / or the cooling medium flows inside. For example, as in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the venting gas and / or the cooling medium may flow in a horizontal direction, and the venting path (VP) and the cooling path (CP) may be arranged to be stacked along the height direction of the battery pack (1).

[0094] The cooling path (CP) may be arranged parallel to the venting path (VP). That is, the cooling path (CP) may be arranged parallel to the venting path (VP). For example, as in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the venting path (VP) and the cooling path (CP) may extend horizontally and be arranged from the outside to the inside of the cover frame (220).

[0095] Preferably, the description will be based on the case where the cover frame (220) is provided on the upper part of the battery cell (100), as in the embodiment shown in the drawing, but the position of the cover frame (220) may vary.

[0096] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling channel (CP) and the venting channel (VP) are arranged from the outside to the inside of the cover frame (220), the area in which the venting channel (VP) comes into contact with the cooling channel (CP) can be maximized. That is, according to the above-described embodiment, the cooling medium of the cooling channel (CP) can be configured to come into contact along the entire area of ​​the venting channel (VP). Accordingly, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when thermal runaway of the battery cell (100) occurs, the heat such as venting gas or flame inside the venting channel (VP) can be cooled more quickly by the cooling medium.

[0097]

[0098] More specifically, the cover frame (220) may be configured as a multi-plate structure. The cover frame (220) may include a first cover (220a), a second cover (220b), and a partition wall (W). The first cover (220a) may be provided to face the battery cell (100) or the battery module (10). The first cover (220a) may be configured to form the innermost surface of the cover frame (220).

[0099] The second cover (220b) is provided on the outer side of the first cover (220a) and may be configured to be spaced apart from the first cover (220a) by a predetermined distance. The second cover (220b) is a surface forming the outermost surface of the cover frame (220) and may be configured to form the outer surface of the battery pack (1).

[0100] The first cover (220a) and the second cover (220b) may be provided parallel to each other. As in the embodiment illustrated in the drawing, the first cover (220a) and the second cover (220b) may be arranged along the height direction of the cover frame (220). A venting path (VP) and a cooling path (CP) may be formed between the first cover (220a) and the second cover (220b).

[0101] A bulkhead (W) may be provided between the first cover (220a) and the second cover (220b). The bulkhead (W) may be configured to separate the venting passage (VP) and the cooling passage (CP) from each other. That is, the bulkhead (W) may be provided between the venting passage (VP) and the cooling passage (CP).

[0102] The bulkhead (W) may extend horizontally. That is, the venting path (VP) and the cooling path (CP) may extend horizontally, and the bulkhead (W) may also be configured to extend along the direction in which the venting path (VP) and the cooling path (CP) extend. Accordingly, the venting gas or the like may be configured to be cooled by contacting the surface of the bulkhead (W) forming the cooling path (CP).

[0103] As in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the partition wall (W) may be provided parallel to the first cover (220a) and the second cover (220b). That is, the first cover (220a), the partition wall (W), and the second cover (220b) may be arranged along the height direction of the cover frame (220). For example, when the battery pack (1) is viewed from the side, the first cover (220a), the partition wall (W), and the second cover (220b) may be arranged in this order from the bottom.

[0104]

[0105] In one embodiment, the cooling conduit (CP) may be provided on the inner side of the venting conduit (VP). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the venting conduit (VP) may be provided on the outer side of the partition wall (W), and the cooling conduit (CP) may be provided on the inner side. That is, the venting conduit (VP) may be formed between the second cover (220b) and the partition wall (W), and the cooling conduit (CP) may be formed between the first cover (220a) and the partition wall (W). In this case, the cooling conduit (CP) may be provided to face the battery cell (100).

[0106] Accordingly, as shown by the dotted arrow in FIG. 4, the venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) can be configured to be discharged through the venting hole (12) and flow into the venting passage (VP) provided relatively outside through the gas inlet (221) and the cooling passage (CP).

[0107] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling path (CP) is provided to face the battery cell (100) or battery module (10), the battery cell (100) can be cooled even in a normal state where no thermal event occurs.

[0108]

[0109] In another embodiment, the cooling channel (CP) may be provided outside the venting channel (VP). At this time, the first cover (220a), the partition wall (W), and the second cover (220b) may also extend in the horizontal direction and be configured to be arranged parallel to each other from the outside to the inside of the cover frame (220). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the cooling channel (CP) may be provided outside the partition wall (W), and the venting channel (VP) may be provided inside. That is, the cooling channel (CP) may be formed between the second cover (220b) and the partition wall (W), and the venting channel (VP) may be formed between the first cover (220a) and the partition wall (W). At this time, the cooling channel (CP) may be provided to face the battery cell (100).

[0110] Accordingly, as shown by the dotted arrow in FIG. 5, venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) can be discharged through the venting hole (12) and directly introduced into the venting path (VP) inside the cover frame (220).

[0111] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, a venting path (VP) is arranged between the battery cell (100) and the cooling path (CP), so that venting gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100) can quickly move to the venting path (VP) and, at the same time, be cooled by a cooling medium in the cooling path (CP).

[0112] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since venting gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100) can be directly introduced into the venting path (VP), a structure penetrating the cooling path (CP) is unnecessary. Accordingly, the structure and manufacturing process of the battery pack (1) can be simplified.

[0113] Moreover, since the high-temperature venting gas has a strong tendency to rise, it can also flow upwards in the venting path (VP) inside the cover frame (220). At this time, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling path (CP) is provided at the upper portion of the venting path (VP), the venting gas, etc., directed toward the bulkhead (W) can be cooled.

[0114] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, heat such as venting gas may not be exposed to the outside of the battery pack (1), so that the temperature may be prevented from rising outside the battery pack (1).

[0115]

[0116] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of a cover frame included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a gas inlet. In addition, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a gas outlet.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, a gas inlet (221) may be provided in the cover frame (220). The gas inlet (221) may be configured to allow venting gas to flow into the venting path (VP). That is, the gas inlet (221) may be provided to connect the venting path (VP) and the battery cell (100).

[0118] At this time, the gas inlet (221) may be formed in the first cover (220a). Alternatively, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, when the cooling passage (CP) is provided on the inner side of the venting passage (VP), the gas inlet (221) may be provided in the form of a hole formed in the first cover (220a) and the bulkhead (W).

[0119] A plurality of gas inlets (221) may be provided. In particular, the gas inlets (221) may be configured to face the venting hole (12). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16, a plurality of gas inlets (221) may be provided in positions and / or sizes and / or numbers corresponding to the venting holes (12).

[0120] Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in the battery module (10), venting gas, etc. can be induced to move directly toward the venting path (VP). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting gas, etc. discharged from the venting hole (12) facing the venting path (VP) can move directly to the venting path (VP) formed in the pack case (200), the venting gas, etc. can be discharged to the outside more quickly and smoothly.

[0121] Meanwhile, as in the embodiment illustrated in the drawing, the cover frame (220) may be positioned on the upper portion of the battery cell (100), and the venting hole (12) may be formed on the upper surface of the module case (11). The venting hole (12) may be configured to communicate with the gas inlet (221).

[0122] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since a venting path (VP) is formed at the upper portion of the battery cells (100), a high-temperature venting gas or a fluid such as a flame that has a strong tendency to flow upward can quickly flow into the venting path (VP).

[0123]

[0124] In addition, referring to FIGS. 4, 5, and 7, when the venting path (VP) is formed inside the cover frame (220), the cover frame (220) may be provided with a gas exhaust port (222). The gas exhaust port (222) may be configured to communicate the venting path (VP) inside the cover frame (220) with the outside of the cover frame (220). In this case, the venting device (213) may not be provided.

[0125] The gas exhaust port (222) may be provided at the end of the venting path (VP) inside the cover frame (220). In this case, the gas exhaust port (222) may be provided in the form of a hole, but the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the gas exhaust port (222). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, when the venting path (VP) is formed between the partition wall (W) and the first cover (220a), the gas exhaust port (222) may be formed between the partition wall (W) and the first cover (220a).

[0126] Meanwhile, a plurality of gas exhaust ports (222) may be provided. The gas exhaust ports (222) may be provided on at least one side of the cover frame (220). The gas exhaust ports (222) may be separately formed on two or more sides, or two or more may be formed on one side. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, a plurality of gas exhaust ports (222) may be formed, two on each of the two sides of the cover frame (220).

[0127] Meanwhile, the number, location, size, etc. of gas discharge ports (222) described based on the embodiment of Fig. 7 are merely examples, and can be changed to various other numbers, locations, etc.

[0128] Accordingly, as shown by the dotted arrows in FIGS. 4 and 5, the venting gas, etc., which has entered the venting path (VP) inside the cover frame (220) through the gas inlet (221) can be discharged to the outside of the cover frame (220) through the gas outlet (222).

[0129]

[0130] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment in which a cover member is applied to a battery pack according to another embodiment.

[0131] A battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a cover member (300). Referring to FIG. 8, the cover member (300) may be configured to cover the gas inlet (221). A plurality of cover members (300) may be provided, and the cover member (300) may be provided for at least one of the plurality of gas inlets (221). For example, the cover member (300) may be provided for each of the plurality of gas inlets (221). The cover member (300) may be provided for the first cover (220a) in which the gas inlet (221) is formed.

[0132] The cover member (300) may be configured to open by heat or pressure when a thermal event occurs. For example, the cover member (300) may be configured to melt by heat such as a venting gas. Alternatively, the cover member (300) may be configured to rupture by pressure such as a venting gas.

[0133] In particular, among the plurality of cover members (300), only the cover member (300) provided on the side of the battery module (10) where the thermal event occurred may be configured to be opened. Specifically, referring to the dotted arrow illustrated in FIG. 8, only the cover member (300) provided on the side of the battery module (10) where the thermal event occurred may be opened by the venting gas discharged through the venting hole (12) of the battery module (10) where the thermal event occurred. Accordingly, the gas inlet (221) may be opened so that the gas may flow into the venting path (VP) formed inside the cover frame (220). On the other hand, the remaining cover members (300) provided on the side of the adjacent other battery module (10) may be maintained in a closed state. Accordingly, it may be configured so that the venting gas, etc. inside the venting path (VP) is not discharged again to the side of the other battery module (10).

[0134] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell (100), high-temperature gases or flames generated in each battery module (10) can be individually discharged to the outside, thereby minimizing heat propagation to battery cells (100) provided in other battery modules (10). That is, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs in a battery module (10), it can be prevented from affecting other battery modules (10). Accordingly, thermal runaway propagation within the battery pack (1) can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1).

[0135]

[0136] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing an embodiment in which at least a portion of a bulkhead is opened.

[0137] Referring to Fig. 9, the bulkhead (W) may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is opened by the venting gas within the venting passage (VP). This allows the cooling medium within the cooling passage (CP) to be discharged toward the venting passage (VP) through a portion of the opened bulkhead (W).

[0138] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery module (10), a cooling medium is discharged from the cooling passage (CP) to the venting passage (VP), thereby cooling the heat of the venting gas and simultaneously extinguishing flames, etc. Furthermore, the pressure of the discharged cooling medium can suppress particles such as sparks from flowing inside the venting passage (VP).

[0139] Specifically, the bulkhead (W) may be provided with a bulkhead hole (H) configured to open when a thermal event occurs. For example, a sealing member may be configured to normally cover the bulkhead hole (H), and when a thermal event occurs, the sealing member may be configured to melt and open the bulkhead hole (H). Alternatively, a notch may be provided along the bulkhead hole (H) so that the bulkhead hole (H) is opened by heat or pressure.

[0140] A plurality of bulkhead holes (H) may be provided and arranged along a number of columns and rows. In addition, the bulkhead holes (H) may be provided in a small size so that a predetermined pressure is applied when the cooling medium is discharged.

[0141]

[0142] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing one embodiment in which a guide member is provided in a bulkhead.

[0143] In particular, the direction in which the cooling medium is discharged from the bulkhead hole (H) may be configured to face opposite to the direction in which the venting gas flows (see the dotted arrow illustrated in FIG. 10). The venting gas may be discharged toward the outside of the cover frame (220), and the cooling medium discharged from the bulkhead hole (H) may be configured to be discharged toward the inside of the cover frame (220). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the cooling medium may be configured to be discharged from the bulkhead hole (H) toward the gas inlet (221).

[0144] To this end, the cover frame (220) may further include a guide member (G). The guide member (G) may be configured to protrude from the outer surface of the bulkhead (W) toward the venting passage (VP). The guide member (G) may be configured to guide the direction of the cooling medium discharged from the bulkhead hole (H). In particular, the guide member (G) may guide the cooling medium discharged from the bulkhead hole (H) to be discharged toward the gas inlet (221).

[0145] As in the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 10, the guide member (G) may be provided in a diagonal shape and may be provided so as to face the gas inlet (221). That is, the guide member (G) may be configured to protrude from the outer surface of the partition wall (W) toward the inside of the venting passage (VP), and may be configured to face the gas inlet (221) as it goes toward the outer end. The guide member (G) may be provided so as to form an acute angle with the partition wall (W). The shape, length, direction, etc. of the guide member (G) may be provided in various ways, and may be provided differently depending on the position of the gas inlet (221).

[0146] Additionally, a plurality of guide members (G) may be provided. The plurality of guide members (G) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the horizontal direction. For example, the plurality of guide members (G) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the partition wall (W) (the Y-axis direction in FIG. 10).

[0147] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the flow of venting gas, etc. flowing through the venting path (VP) can be impeded, or the contact area and contact time with the cooling path (CP) can be increased. This allows the time that the venting gas or flame, etc. remain within the venting path (VP) to increase, thereby allowing the venting gas, etc. to be more efficiently cooled by the cooling medium.

[0148] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas or flame, etc. inside the venting path (VP) is reflected by the guide member (G), so that the flow of sparks or flames, etc. with strong straightness can be further suppressed. In this case, particles such as sparks can be captured by the grooves formed between the guide members (G). Therefore, sparks and flames, etc. can be prevented from being discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1).

[0149]

[0150] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing one embodiment of a cooling channel configured to protrude at least a portion thereof.

[0151] Referring to Fig. 11, the cooling channel (CP) may be configured to partially protrude toward the venting channel (VP). Specifically, the bulkhead (W) may include a protrusion (P). The protrusion (P) may be formed such that at least a portion of the bulkhead (W) protrudes toward the venting channel (VP). The protrusion (P) may be configured such that a cooling medium is filled on the inside. In other words, the protrusion (P) may be configured such that a recessed shape is repeatedly formed along a horizontal direction.

[0152] A plurality of protrusions (P) may be provided. The plurality of protrusions (P) may be configured to be spaced apart from each other along the bulkhead (W). For example, the protrusions (P) may be configured to extend longwise in the left-right direction and be spaced apart from each other in the length direction.

[0153] In addition, a space can be provided between the protrusions (P) through which venting gas, etc. can flow. As a result, as indicated by the dotted arrows in Fig. 11, a venting path (VP) is formed in the space between adjacent protrusions (P), and the venting gas, etc. can flow between the protrusions (P).

[0154] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since at least a portion of the cooling channel (CP) is configured to protrude toward the venting channel (VP), the area of ​​contact between the venting gas flowing within the venting channel (VP) and the cooling medium can be increased. As a result, the venting gas can be quickly cooled, thereby minimizing heat transfer to other battery cells (100).

[0155]

[0156] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 12 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section II-II' of Fig. 1. In addition, Fig. 13 is a top view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0157] Meanwhile, the cooling path (CP) may be provided on at least one side of the venting path (VP). As in the above-described embodiment, the cooling path (CP) may be provided only on the outer or inner side of the venting path (VP).

[0158] Alternatively, unlike the above-described embodiment, the cooling path (CP) may be provided on both sides of the venting path (VP). For example, the venting path (VP) may extend horizontally within the cover frame (220), and the cooling path (CP) may be formed at the upper and lower portions of the venting path (VP), thereby forming a triple structure.

[0159] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling channels (CP) are formed on both sides of the venting channel (VP), the area of ​​the cooling channels (CP) that comes into contact with the venting gas, etc. inside the venting channel (VP) increases, so that the venting gas, etc. can be cooled more quickly. As a result, the cooling efficiency of the venting gas, etc. can be further increased.

[0160] As an example, the cooling channel (CP) and the venting channel (VP) may be arranged along the horizontal direction. That is, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the bulkhead (W) may be provided so as to be vertically erected between the first cover (220a) and the second cover (220b) and spaced apart along the horizontal direction (e.g., the left-right direction of the cover frame (220).

[0161] Specifically, the venting passage (VP) may include a plurality of unit venting passages (VP'), and the cooling passage (CP) may include a plurality of unit cooling passages (CP'). At this time, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the plurality of unit venting passages (VP') and the plurality of unit cooling passages (CP') may be arranged alternately along a horizontal direction (e.g., the left-right direction of the cover frame (220)). That is, the unit cooling passages (CP') may be arranged on both sides of each of the plurality of unit venting passages (VP').

[0162] The unit venting path (VP') may be provided at a position facing the venting hole (12). At this time, the gas inlet (221) may be configured to face the venting hole (12). In addition, the gas outlet (222) may be formed for each of a plurality of unit venting paths (VP'). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the gas outlet (222) may be formed at each of the two end portions of each of a plurality of unit venting paths (VP').

[0163] Meanwhile, a unit cooling path (CP') can be formed between venting holes (12), i.e., between unit venting paths (VP'). At this time, an inlet port (I) and an outlet port (O) can be formed for each unit cooling path (CP').

[0164] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since a plurality of unit venting paths (VP') facing the battery cell (100) are provided, venting gas and the like can be vented and discharged to the outside more quickly.

[0165] Moreover, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) where the thermal event occurred is directly introduced into the unit venting passage (VP') facing the battery cell (100), the gas can be vented to the outside more quickly. In addition, since the gas inlets (221) are individually provided in the plurality of unit venting passages (VP'), the heat can be prevented from being transmitted to other battery modules (10) or battery cells (100) where the thermal event did not occur.

[0166] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the area of ​​contact between the venting gas flowing within a venting path (VP) and the cooling medium can be increased. As a result, the venting gas can be quickly cooled, thereby minimizing heat transfer to other battery cells (100) or battery modules (10).

[0167] Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawing, it goes without saying that the cover member (300), bulkhead hole (H), guide member (G), and protrusion (P) described above can be applied to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0168]

[0169] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 14, 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.

[0171]

[0172] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations can be made within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims to be described below by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. A plurality of battery cells; and A battery pack characterized by comprising a pack case having a main body frame configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and have an open end formed on at least one side, and a cover frame provided on the open end of the main body frame so as to be positioned on a side through which venting gas is discharged from the plurality of battery cells, and having a cooling channel formed in an internal space thereof configured to allow a cooling medium to flow.

2. In paragraph 1, The above cover frame A battery pack characterized in that a venting channel is formed on at least one side of the cooling channel in the internal space and configured to allow the venting gas to flow.

3. In paragraph 2, A battery pack, characterized in that the cooling path and the venting path are arranged in parallel from the outside to the inside of the cover frame.

4. In paragraph 3, A battery pack, characterized in that the cooling path is provided outside the venting path.

5. In paragraph 4, A battery pack characterized in that it further includes a module case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells by grouping them, and having a venting hole formed on at least one side thereof so that the venting gas is discharged to the outside.

6. In paragraph 5, The above cover frame A battery pack characterized by having a gas inlet configured to face the venting hole.

7. In paragraph 6, The above cover frame is located on the upper part of the module case, A battery pack characterized in that the venting hole is formed on the upper surface of the module case and is configured to communicate with the gas inlet.

8. In paragraph 6, A battery pack characterized in that it further includes a cover member that covers the gas inlet and is configured to be opened by heat or pressure.

9. In paragraph 2, The above cover frame A battery pack characterized by including a bulkhead provided between the venting path and the cooling path.

10. In paragraph 9, A battery pack, characterized in that at least a portion of the bulkhead is configured to be openable by venting gas within the venting path.

11. In paragraph 10, The above cover frame A battery pack further characterized by including a guide member configured to protrude from the surface of the bulkhead toward the venting path.

12. In paragraph 2, A battery pack characterized in that the cooling path is configured to partially protrude toward the venting path.

13. In paragraph 2, A battery pack, characterized in that the cooling path and the venting path are arranged along a horizontal direction.

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

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