Battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module characterized by comprising: a cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells stacked in a first direction; and a module frame comprising a first frame and a second frame that are coupled to each other in a second direction that is the direction horizontally orthogonal to the first direction, thereby accommodating the cell assembly.

Description

Battery modules, battery packs containing the same, and vehicles

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

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0033430, filed on March 8, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[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 configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series / parallel, it is common to first configure a battery module including at least one battery cell, and then configure a battery pack or battery rack by adding other components using this at least one battery module.

[0006] In conventional battery modules, the module frame is composed of various components, and welds may be formed to join these components. This process requires multiple welding processes to connect the multiple plates, which reduces productivity.

[0007] Furthermore, in battery modules where numerous battery cells are densely packed into a small space, ensuring safety in the event of a thermal event is a critical challenge. Specifically, if a single battery cell experiences an event such as thermal runaway, high-temperature gases, flames, or heat can be generated and released.

[0008] At this time, the high-temperature venting gas or flame can increase the pressure inside the module frame, potentially damaging the module frame. Furthermore, if the weld is broken, external oxygen can enter the module frame, amplifying the flame inside the battery module. This can lead to a fire or explosion in the battery module or battery pack. Such a fire or explosion in a battery module or battery pack can not only cause property damage but also cause casualties. For example, a fire or explosion in an electric vehicle battery pack can threaten the safety of users, such as the driver.

[0009] Accordingly, the present invention has been created to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a battery module, a battery pack, and an automobile including the same, which can ensure safety by stably maintaining the combined state of the module frame of the battery module.

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

[0011] To solve the above problem, a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells stacked in a first direction; and a module frame including a first frame and a second frame configured to accommodate the cell assembly by being mutually coupled along a second direction, which is a direction horizontally perpendicular to the first direction.

[0012] The front surface of the cell assembly is covered by a first frame, the rear surface of the cell assembly is covered by a second frame, and the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right surfaces of the cell assembly can be configured to be dividedly covered by the first frame and the second frame.

[0013] The first frame may be configured to receive a portion of the cell assembly on one side, and the second frame may be coupled to the first frame to receive the remainder of the cell assembly on the other side.

[0014] The venting induction direction of the venting gas generated in the battery cell and the second direction may be configured to be orthogonal.

[0015] At least one of the first frame and the second frame may have a venting hole formed on the upper surface thereof to discharge venting gas generated from the battery cell.

[0016] The above plurality of battery cells can be stacked face to face so that the electrode leads are pulled out in the front-back direction and the sealing portion where the electrode leads are not pulled out faces upward.

[0017] The first frame and the second frame each have an open end on the inner side, and the first frame and the second frame can be configured so that the inner open ends face each other.

[0018] A welded portion may be formed at the inner open end where the first frame and the second frame face each other.

[0019] The above welded portion may be formed in the form of a line that is at least partially bent.

[0020] The battery cell may further include a terminal electrically connected to the electrode lead and configured such that at least a portion thereof protrudes outward from the first frame.

[0021] The above first frame may have a terminal hole configured to allow the terminal to pass through.

[0022] It may further include an insulating cover provided between the first frame and the terminal and configured to electrically insulate the first frame and the terminal.

[0023] The above insulating cover may have a through hole configured to allow the terminal to penetrate through to the outside.

[0024] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

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

[0026] According to one aspect of the present invention, the number of module frame components can be minimized, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and time required to manufacture a battery module. This, in turn, improves productivity and enhances management convenience.

[0027] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, even if shock or vibration occurs in the battery module, the module frame can be stably maintained in a bonded state without being damaged or broken. This ensures the structural stability of the battery module.

[0028] Accordingly, according to the above aspect of the present invention, even if a thermal event such as venting gas or flame occurs in the battery module, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules can be effectively prevented by minimizing the leakage of venting gas or flame to the outside through damaged or broken portions of the module frame.

[0029] Moreover, according to the above aspect of the present invention, in a battery module, the spread of fire due to the inflow of oxygen or other substances through damaged or broken portions of the module frame can be effectively prevented. As a result, the safety of the battery module can be ensured.

[0030] And, according to another aspect of the present invention, the bonding state of the module frame can be stably maintained even when swelling of the battery cell occurs.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 3 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the venting induction direction when a thermal event occurs in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a welded portion of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a top view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a top view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a module frame of a battery module separated according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of the front side of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 12 is a front side elevation view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean the left-right direction, i.e., the first direction, the Y-axis direction may mean the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the horizontal plane (XY plane), i.e., the second direction, and the Z-axis direction may mean the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, i.e., the height direction of the battery cell.

[0052]

[0053] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module 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.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery module (10) according to the present invention includes a cell assembly (100) and a module frame (200).

[0055] A cell assembly (100) may include one or more battery cells (110), particularly a plurality of battery cells (110). Here, each battery cell (110) may refer to a single secondary battery or may refer to a battery group comprising multiple secondary batteries. In this specification, the description will be based on the assumption that a battery cell (110) represents a single secondary battery.

[0056] A plurality of battery cells (110) may include an electrode assembly, a cell case (111) that accommodates the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead (112) that is connected to the electrode assembly and extends outward from the cell case (111) to function as an electrode terminal.

[0057] At this time, the shape of the cell case (111) can be configured in various ways, and depending on the shape of the cell case (111), the battery cell (110) can be classified into a pouch-type cell, a cylindrical cell, a square cell, etc. Since the types of these battery cells (110) were widely known at the time of filing of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Although the drawings of the present specification illustrate a pouch-type battery cell, the present invention is applicable to all types of secondary batteries known at the time of filing of the present invention, and is not limited to a specific type of secondary battery.

[0058] In the cell assembly (100), a plurality of battery cells (110) may be configured in a form in which they are stacked in a first direction. For example, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked in a form in which they are arranged in a left-right direction (±X-axis direction) as indicated by arrow D1 in FIG. 2. In addition, a plurality of battery cells (110) provided in the cell assembly (100) may be electrically connected to each other in series and / or in parallel through a bus bar (420) or the like, which will be described later.

[0059] Meanwhile, the module frame (200) may be configured to accommodate the cell assembly (100). Specifically, the module frame (200) may be configured to have a receiving space formed therein, and the cell assembly (100) may be accommodated in the receiving space. For example, the module frame (200) may be configured to have a rectangular parallelepiped shape formed by combining multiple parts. The module frame (200) may be at least partially composed of metal and / or plastic materials.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the module frame (200) may include a first frame (210) and a second frame (220). The first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be assembled together to form the exterior of the module frame (200).

[0061] At this time, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be mutually coupled along a second direction that is horizontally orthogonal to the first direction. For example, the second frame (220) can be positioned at the rear of the first frame (210) and can be coupled by moving in a forward direction. That is, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be mutually coupled along the front-back direction (±Y-axis direction), as indicated by arrow D2 in FIG. 2.

[0062] The first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured to accommodate the cell assembly (100) in a divided manner. As a more specific example, the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right sides of the cell assembly (100) may be configured to be dividedly covered by the first frame (210) and the second frame (220).

[0063] For example, after at least a portion of the cell assembly (100) is accommodated in the first frame (210) or the second frame (220), the remaining second frame (220) or the first frame (210) may be combined so that the cell assembly (100) may be accommodated inside the module frame (200). At this time, various fastening methods such as welding, bonding, bolting, and hooking may be used to secure the connection between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220).

[0064] That is, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the module frame (200) can be formed with only two parts, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220), to accommodate the entire cell assembly (100). Accordingly, the number of parts of the module frame (200) can be minimized, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and time, etc., in manufacturing the battery module (10). Accordingly, productivity can be improved and convenience of management can be enhanced.

[0065] Moreover, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the joint area of ​​various parts of the module frame (200) is minimized, even if an impact or vibration occurs to the battery module (10), the module frame (200) can be prevented from being damaged or broken. As a result, the structural stability of the battery module (10) can be secured.

[0066] In particular, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event such as venting gas or flame occurs in the battery module (10), the coupled state of the module frame (200) can be stably maintained. Accordingly, the module frame (200) can be prevented from being separated and venting gas or flames from leaking to the outside. In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to effectively prevent the spread of fire by oxygen or the like entering the interior through damaged or broken portions of the module frame (200). As a result, the safety of the battery module can be ensured.

[0067] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are coupled in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the battery cell (110) swells, the coupling state of the module frame (200) can be stably maintained even when swelling of the battery cell (110) occurs.

[0068] As a more specific example, the first frame (210) may be configured to receive a portion of the cell assembly (100) on one side, and the second frame (220) may be configured to be coupled to the first frame (210) and receive the remainder of the cell assembly (100) on the other side. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in the drawing, the first frame (210) may be configured to receive a portion of the front side of the cell assembly (100), and the second frame (220) may be configured to receive the remainder of the rear side of the cell assembly (100).

[0069] In other words, the first frame (210) may be configured to surround a portion of the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right sides of the cell assembly (100) and the front surface of the cell assembly (100), and the second frame (220) may be configured to surround the remaining portions of the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right sides of the cell assembly (100) and the rear surface of the cell assembly (100). Accordingly, the front surface of the cell assembly (100) may be covered by the first frame (210), and the rear surface of the cell assembly (100) may be covered by the second frame (220).

[0070] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the remaining portion, excluding the area where the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are joined, particularly the front and rear surfaces of the cell assembly (100), can be completely covered by the first frame (210) and the second frame (220). Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in the battery module (10), venting gas or flames can be suppressed from moving toward the adjacent battery module (10) through the front and rear surfaces of the module frame (200). Accordingly, thermal runaway propagation between the battery modules (10) can be minimized.

[0071]

[0072] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the venting induction direction when a thermal event occurs in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery module (10) may be configured such that the venting induction direction of the venting gas generated from the battery cell (110) and the second direction, which is the assembly direction of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220), are orthogonal to each other. For example, as indicated by arrows D2 and D3 in FIG. 4, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be assembled by moving inward along the front-back direction, and the venting induction direction may be configured in the upward direction.

[0074] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the area where the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are joined in the venting induction direction can be minimized. That is, since the direction in which venting gas or flames are discharged and the direction in which the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are assembled do not match, the separation of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) due to the pressure of the venting gas or flames can be minimized. Therefore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event such as venting gas or flames occurs in the battery module (10), the joining state of the module frame (200) can be stably maintained, so that the structural stability of the battery module (10) can be secured.

[0075] Referring to Fig. 4, the venting induction direction will be described in more detail. The module frame (200) may have a venting hole (H) formed on at least one side. For example, the venting hole (H) may be formed in at least one of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) of the module frame (200). This venting hole (H) may be configured to discharge the venting gas generated in the battery cell (110) to the outside of the module frame (200).

[0076] For example, the venting hole (H) may be formed in a completely open form so as to penetrate the module frame (200) in the internal and external directions. However, the venting hole (H) may not be completely open, but may be formed in a form that is closed under normal conditions and can be opened according to changes in pressure, temperature, etc.

[0077] A plurality of venting holes (H) may be provided. In addition, the venting holes (H) may be formed in a shape that extends in one direction. For example, as indicated by arrow D2 in FIG. 4, the venting holes (H) may be formed in a shape that extends in the longitudinal direction (second direction) of the battery cell (110).

[0078] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the pressure inside the battery module (10) increases due to the venting hole (H), thereby preventing the battery module (10) from exploding. In addition, in this case, the direction of venting gas discharge can be induced.

[0079] Such a venting hole (H) may be formed on the upper surface of the module frame (200). That is, as indicated by arrow D3 in FIG. 4, the venting induction direction of the battery module (10) may be directed upward. In addition, in this case, the coupling direction of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be a front-back direction (second direction) that is orthogonal to the upper direction.

[0080] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are assembled in the front-back direction, the venting induction direction is induced upward, thereby minimizing separation of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) due to pressure such as venting gas or flame. Therefore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event such as venting gas or flame occurs in the battery module (10), the coupling state of the module frame (200) is stably maintained, so that the structural stability of the battery module (10) can be secured.

[0081] Meanwhile, referring back to FIG. 3, when the battery cell (110) is provided as a pouch-type battery cell, the cell case (111) may be provided with a receiving portion (111a) and a sealing portion (111b). The receiving portion (111a) may be configured to receive an electrode assembly, and the sealing portion (111b) may be configured such that the outer edge of the receiving portion (111a) is heat-sealed and sealed. For example, one cell case (111) may be folded in the middle to receive an electrode assembly therebetween, and may include a receiving portion (111a) receiving the electrode assembly, and a sealing portion (111b) in which three edges of the outer edge of the receiving portion (111a) are sealed.

[0082] Meanwhile, the electrode leads (112) may be provided as a pair, and the pair of electrode leads (112) may be extended from both ends of the battery cell (110), i.e., in the longitudinal direction (second direction). At this time, the pair of electrode leads (112) may be a positive lead and a negative lead. If necessary, the battery cell (110) may have a form in which the two electrode leads (112) are positioned only at one end in the second direction, for example, at the end in the +Y-axis direction.

[0083] At this time, the sealing portion (111b) may include a portion from which the electrode lead (112) is pulled out and a portion from which the electrode lead (112) is not pulled out. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the portion of the sealing portion (111a) from which the electrode lead (112) is pulled out may be provided on both sides along the second direction (front-back direction) of the cell case (111), and the portion from which the electrode lead (112) is not pulled out may be provided at the top. That is, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked face to face so that the electrode lead (112) is pulled out in the front-back direction and the sealing portion (111a) from which the electrode lead (112) is not pulled out faces upward.

[0084] At this time, the venting gas generated in the battery cell (110) can be vented to the outside through the sealing portion (111a) from which the electrode lead (112) is not withdrawn. As a result, the venting gas can be induced to vent upward. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas, etc. vented upward from the battery cell (110) can be vented to the outside of the battery module (10) through the venting hole (H) provided at the top.

[0085] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting direction of the battery cell (110) can be more effectively induced to face upward. Accordingly, when the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are assembled in the front-back direction, even if a thermal event such as venting gas or flame occurs in the battery module (10), separation of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) due to the pressure of the venting gas or flame can be minimized. Accordingly, the structural stability of the battery module (10) can be further secured.

[0086]

[0087] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the battery module (10) of the present invention may further include a busbar frame assembly (400). The busbar frame assembly (400) may be provided inside the module frame (200) and configured to cover at least one side of the plurality of battery cells (110). The busbar frame assembly (400) may be positioned on the side from which the electrode leads (112) of the battery cells (110) are drawn out. For example, the busbar frame assembly (400) may be coupled to the front and rear of the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0088] A busbar frame assembly (400) may include a busbar frame (410) and a plurality of busbars (420). The busbar frame (410) may be arranged to be connected to the front and rear of a plurality of battery cells (110). The busbar frame (410) may have slits through which electrode leads of the battery cells (110) can be drawn out in the front-back direction.

[0089] Additionally, the busbar frame (410) may be formed of a material having electrical insulation properties, such as a plastic material, and may be configured to allow a busbar (420) to be attached to the outer surface.

[0090] Meanwhile, a plurality of bus bars (420) may be made of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc., and may be provided in the shape of a bar as a means for connecting battery cells (110) in series and / or in parallel.

[0091] The electrode leads (112) of the battery cells (110) pass through the slits of the busbar frame (410) and are drawn outward from the busbar frame (410), and the portion drawn out in this manner can be attached to the surface of the busbar (420) by welding or the like.

[0092]

[0093] The combined structure of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0094] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a welded portion of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from above.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may each have an open end on the inner side. When the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) are combined, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured such that their respective inner open ends face each other.

[0096] At this time, a weld (W) may be formed at the inner open end where the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) face each other. The weld (W) may be formed at the center of the module frame (200).

[0097] Specifically, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured such that one component supports the other. The first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured such that their ends are in contact with each other. In this way, by welding the contacting portions of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220), a welded portion (W) may be formed.

[0098] As a more specific example, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured to have four corners each. For example, in the exemplary configuration of FIG. 5, the first frame (210) located at the front may be configured to have an approximately square shape when viewed from the rear. Similarly, the second frame (220) may be configured to have an approximately square shape when viewed from the front. Accordingly, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured to have corners at the top, bottom, left, and right sides, respectively, for a total of four corners.

[0099] In this configuration, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may have a weld (W) formed at at least one of the four corners. In particular, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may have a weld (W) formed at a portion where the four corners face each other. That is, the weld (W) may be formed at all of the upper, lower, left, and right portions where the inner open ends of each of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) face each other.

[0100] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be more stably joined. In addition, in this case, the leakage of venting gas or flames between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be more effectively prevented.

[0101]

[0102] FIG. 7 is a top view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] The weld (W) can be formed in various shapes other than the above-described embodiment. For example, the weld (W) can be formed in the shape of a line that is at least partially bent. In particular, the weld (W) can be formed in a zigzag shape. That is, in the embodiment of FIG. 7, on one surface (top surface) of the battery module (10), the weld (W) can be formed in a zigzag shape that protrudes forward and backward around the central portion (inner side) of the battery module (10).

[0104] As a more specific example, referring to FIG. 7, the first frame (210) may have a first protrusion (P1). In addition, the second frame (220) may have a second protrusion (P2). These protrusions (P1, P2) may be formed to protrude in the coupling direction of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220), i.e., in the inward direction of the module frame (200). That is, the inner end of the first frame (210) and the inner end of the second frame (220) may be configured in a protruding shape. At this time, the first protrusion (P1) and the second protrusion (P2) may be arranged to be staggered along the left-right direction (the first direction).

[0105] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the length of the welded portion (W) can be formed to be long. That is, referring to the embodiment of FIG. 7, the length of the welded portion (W) can be formed to be longer than the width in the left and right directions of the module frame (200). Accordingly, the bonding strength of the welded portion (W) can be further improved, thereby increasing the bonding strength between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220).

[0106] In particular, in the case of the above-described implementation configuration, since the welded portion (W) is distributed over a wide area in the joining direction of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220), the tensile stress for the joining portion between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be improved.

[0107] Moreover, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, a fitting joint configuration between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) is implemented, so that the fixing force therebetween can be further improved. In addition, the sealing performance of the welded portion (W) can be further improved.

[0108] Meanwhile, the welded portion (W) in the form of a bent line as shown in Fig. 7 may be provided not only on the upper surface but also on the side surface or lower surface of the module frame (200). In addition, unlike the embodiment of Fig. 7, the welded portion (W) between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) according to the present invention may be formed in various other shapes.

[0109]

[0110] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a separated module frame of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Meanwhile, the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured such that one component supports the other component outwardly. Specifically, one of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) may be configured to be mounted on the other component. That is, when the cross-section of the module frame (200) is viewed from the side, the inner open end of the first frame (210) and the inner open end of the second frame (220) may be configured to be perpendicular to each other.

[0112] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the front end of the second frame (220) may be configured to be seated on the first frame (210). Specifically, the rear end of the first frame (210) may be provided with a concave portion (G) formed to protrude rearward (in the +Y-axis direction). The concave portion (G) may be configured in a shape that is sunken inward from the rear end of the first frame (210). In addition, a seating portion (S) may be formed on the front end of the second frame (220) so as to protrude forward (in the -Y-axis direction) and be seated on the concave portion (G) of the first frame (210). The seating portion (S) may be configured to correspond to the length of the concave portion (G).

[0113] At this time, the weld (W) may be formed at a portion where the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) support each other in the front-back direction. That is, the weld (W) may be formed at a point where the outermost portion of the mounting portion (S) of the second frame (220) contacts the concave portion (G) of the first frame (210).

[0114] According to this configuration of the present invention, since one component (e.g., the first frame (210)) of the module frames (200) supports the other component (e.g., the second frame (220)) in an upward (outward) direction, the contact state between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be stably maintained during the welding process. Accordingly, weldability can be improved.

[0115] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the concave portion (G) is provided, it is possible to prevent the battery cells (110) accommodated inside the module frame (200) from being damaged during the welding process.

[0116] Moreover, the support configuration (concave portion (G)) of the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be formed on the entire edge of the first frame (210) or the second frame (220), such as the entire upper, lower, left, and right sides. In this case, since the concave portion (G) is inserted into the interior of another component, an insertion fastening configuration between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be implemented. Accordingly, the mechanical coupling force and assembling ability between the first frame (210) and the second frame (220) can be improved.

[0117] Meanwhile, in FIGS. 8 and 9, an embodiment is shown in which a concave portion (G) is provided in the first frame (210) and a mounting portion (S) is provided in the second frame (220). However, unlike the above embodiment, a concave portion (G) may be provided in the second frame (220) and a mounting portion (S) may be provided in the first frame (210).

[0118] In addition, in the above embodiment, it goes without saying that the concave portion (G), the mounting portion (S), and the welding portion (W) can be configured in various shapes, such as a line shape that is at least partially bent, as well as the straight shape shown in FIG. 8.

[0119]

[0120] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a front side exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a front side front view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a terminal (300). The terminal (300) may be configured to be electrically connected to an electrode lead (112) of a battery cell (110). The terminal (300) may include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. In addition, the terminal (300) may be configured to be electrically or communicatively connected to a control device such as a BMS.

[0122] The terminal (300) may be provided on the side from which the electrode lead (112) of the battery cell (110) is drawn out. For example, the terminal (300) may be provided on the front side of the module frame (200). The terminal (300) may be provided on the busbar frame (410). The terminal (300) may be two busbars (420) provided on the outermost side among a plurality of busbars (420).

[0123] The first frame (210) may be configured to at least partially cover the terminal (300). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the first frame (210) is configured to protect the terminal (300), it is possible to minimize high-temperature venting gas or flames from being directed toward the terminal (300) of the battery module (10) in the event of an abnormal condition of the adjacent battery module (10).

[0124] In addition, the terminal (300) may be configured such that at least a portion thereof protrudes outwardly from the first frame (210). More specifically, the first frame (210) may be provided with a terminal hole (211) configured such that the terminal (300) passes through it. The terminal hole (211) may be configured such that at least a portion of the upper surface, the front surface, the left surface, and the right surface of the first frame (210) passes through it. Two terminals (300) may be provided, and the terminal holes (211) may be provided on both left and right sides of the first frame (210).

[0125] A battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include an insulating cover (500). The insulating cover (500) may be configured to electrically insulate the module frame (200) from the bus bar (420) or the electrode lead (112). For example, the first frame (210) may be made of a metal material such as aluminum, and the insulating cover (500) may be made of plastic.

[0126] In particular, the insulating cover (500) may be configured to electrically insulate the first frame (210) and the terminal (300). The insulating cover (500) may be configured to surround the outer perimeter of the portion where the terminal (300) is exposed to the outside.

[0127] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 11, the insulating cover (500) may be provided with a through hole (510). The through hole (510) may be configured to allow the terminal (300) to pass through to the outside. The through hole (510) may be provided at a position corresponding to the terminal hole (211). Accordingly, the terminal (300) may be configured to be at least partially exposed to the outside through the terminal hole (211) and the through hole (510).

[0128] The insulating cover (500) may be provided on the inner side of the module frame (500), particularly the first frame (210). That is, the insulating cover (500) may be provided between the first frame (210) and the terminal (300). Specifically, the insulating cover (500) may be inserted into the first frame (210) and assembled to the cell assembly (100) and the busbar frame assembly (400) together with the first frame (210).

[0129] As the insulating cover (500) is inserted between the first frame (210), the cell assembly (100), and the busbar frame assembly (400) as in the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the end plate forming the front and rear surfaces of the module frame in a conventional battery module has an insulating cover on the inside, so that assembly can be secured compared to when the insulating cover and the end plate are welded to the cell assembly.

[0130] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the possibility of the insulating cover (500) being separated when the internal pressure of the battery module (10) increases is minimized, so that electrical insulation and structural stability can be secured.

[0131] Moreover, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, separation of the cell assembly (100) and the insulating cover (500) due to venting gas or flame, etc., is suppressed, thereby preventing venting gas or flame, etc. from being discharged toward the front of the battery module (10). As a result, thermal runaway propagation between the battery modules (10) can be prevented.

[0132]

[0133] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 13, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. In addition, the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a pack case (2). The pack case (2) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery modules (10). The pack case (2) may be formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped box.

[0135] Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, the pack case (2) may be configured to accommodate components such as a BMS (Battery Management System), a current sensor, and a fuse for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery cells (110) therein.

[0136]

[0137] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 14, a vehicle (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (3) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (3) may include a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheel vehicle. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0139]

[0140] 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 cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells stacked in a first direction; and A battery module characterized by comprising a module frame having a first frame and a second frame configured to accommodate the cell assembly by being mutually coupled along a second direction that is horizontally orthogonal to the first direction.

2. In paragraph 1, The front surface of the above cell assembly is covered by the first frame, The rear surface of the above cell assembly is covered by a second frame, A battery module characterized in that the upper surface, lower surface, and left and right surfaces of the cell assembly are configured to be divided and covered by the first frame and the second frame.

3. In paragraph 1, The first frame is configured to receive a portion of the cell assembly on one side, A battery module characterized in that the second frame is coupled to the first frame and configured to receive the remaining portion of the cell assembly from the other side.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the venting induction direction of the venting gas generated in the battery cell and the second direction are configured to be orthogonal.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that at least one of the first frame and the second frame has a venting hole formed on the upper surface thereof to discharge venting gas generated in the battery cell.

6. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the plurality of battery cells are stacked face to face so that the electrode leads are pulled out in the front-back direction and the sealing portion where the electrode leads are not pulled out faces upward.

7. In paragraph 1, The first frame and the second frame each have an open end on the inside, A battery module characterized in that the first frame and the second frame are configured so that their inner open ends face each other.

8. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that a welded portion is formed at the inner open end where the first frame and the second frame face each other.

9. In paragraph 8, A battery module characterized in that the above welded portion is formed in the form of a bent line at least partially.

10. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that it further includes a terminal electrically connected to the electrode lead of the battery cell and configured such that at least a portion thereof protrudes outward from the first frame.

11. In paragraph 10, A battery module characterized in that the first frame has a terminal hole configured to allow the terminal to pass through.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery module characterized in that it further includes an insulating cover provided between the first frame and the terminal and configured to electrically insulate the first frame and the terminal.

13. In paragraph 12, A battery module characterized in that the insulating cover has a through hole configured to allow the terminal to penetrate to the outside.

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

15. A vehicle comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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