Battery pack

Abstract

The technical idea of the present invention provides a battery pack comprising: a battery cell assembly including battery cells; a pack frame including a bottom frame for supporting the battery cell assembly, and side frames coupled to the bottom frame, the bottom frame and the side frames defining an accommodation space in which the battery cell assembly is accommodated, and the bottom frame including a first venting passage that communicates with the outside; and a first venting device which is arranged in the first venting passage of the bottom frame, and which opens and closes an inner passage according to the pressure of the accommodation space of the pack frame.

Description

battery pack

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack, and more particularly, to a battery pack including a venting device.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Republic of Korea Patent Application No. 10-2024-0032539, filed on March 27, 2024, and Republic of Korea Patent Application No. 10-2024-0148400, filed on October 28, 2024, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as a power source for various wireless devices, including handsets, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, improved energy density and economies of scale have dramatically reduced the per-unit manufacturing cost of secondary batteries. Furthermore, as the range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased to match that of fuel-powered vehicles, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0004] As secondary batteries become increasingly used in mobility, demand for their safety is increasing. Fires and other accidents involving secondary batteries used in mobility vehicles can endanger the lives of drivers, making research into technologies that enhance secondary battery safety essential.

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack including a venting device.

[0006] In order to solve the above-described problem, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a battery cell assembly including a battery cell; a pack frame including a bottom frame supporting the battery cell assembly and a side frame coupled to the bottom frame, wherein the bottom frame and the side frame define a receiving space for receiving the battery cell assembly, and the bottom frame includes a first venting passage communicating with an external space; and a first venting device disposed within the first venting passage of the bottom frame and configured to open and close the internal passage depending on a pressure in the receiving space of the pack frame.

[0007] In exemplary embodiments, the pack frame further includes a cooling passage configured to allow a cooling fluid to flow, wherein the first venting passage and the cooling passage extend in a first direction, and the first venting passage and the cooling passage are spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0008] In exemplary embodiments, the first venting device is characterized in that its entirety is accommodated within the first venting passage of the floor frame.

[0009] In exemplary embodiments, the floor frame includes a first inner wall and a first outer wall defining the first venting passage, and the first venting device includes a first base plate mounted to the first inner wall of the floor frame and having a passage communicating with a through hole in the first inner wall of the floor frame; a first opening / closing cover configured to open / close the passage of the first base plate; a first spring providing a restoring force to the first opening / closing cover such that the first opening / closing cover closes the passage of the first base plate; and a first cap body fixed to the first base plate and supporting the first spring.

[0010] In exemplary embodiments, the first opening / closing cover is configured to move between a closed position that closes the passage of the first base plate and an open position that opens the passage of the first base plate, wherein the closed position of the first opening / closing cover is closer to the first inner wall than the open position of the first opening / closing cover, and wherein the first spring is configured to urge the first opening / closing cover in a direction from the first outer wall toward the first inner wall.

[0011] In exemplary embodiments, when the first opening / closing cover is in the closed position, the first spring is characterized in that it does not penetrate the receiving space of the pack frame.

[0012] In exemplary embodiments, one end of the first spring is in contact with the first cap body, and the other end of the first spring is in contact with the first opening / closing cover.

[0013] In exemplary embodiments, the first cap body is characterized by including a protrusion supporting the first spring.

[0014] In exemplary embodiments, the invention further comprises: a first fastening bolt coupled to the first inner wall of the floor frame and including a protrusion protruding from the first inner wall of the floor frame in a direction from the first inner wall of the floor frame toward the first outer wall of the floor frame; and a first nut fitted into the protrusion of the first fastening bolt; wherein the first base plate includes a fastening hole into which the protrusion of the first fastening bolt is inserted, and the first base plate is characterized in that the first nut is fixed to the first inner wall of the floor frame by fitting the protrusion of the first fastening bolt.

[0015] In exemplary embodiments, the floor frame further comprises a cover plate coupled to the first outer wall so as to cover a through hole in the first outer wall that overlaps the first venting device in one direction.

[0016] In exemplary embodiments, the pack frame further comprises a plurality of second venting devices disposed within a second venting passage provided between a second inner wall and a second outer wall of the side frame, wherein each of the plurality of second venting devices is configured to open and close an inner passage depending on a pressure in the receiving space of the pack frame.

[0017] In exemplary embodiments, the side frame includes a first segment and a second segment spaced apart in a third direction with the accommodation space therebetween, and a third segment and a fourth segment perpendicular to the third direction with the accommodation space therebetween, and the plurality of second venting devices are characterized in that they are mounted on two or more of the first segment, the second segment, the third segment, and the fourth segment of the side frame.

[0018] In exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of second venting devices is characterized in that its entirety is accommodated within the second venting passage of the side frame.

[0019] In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of second venting devices are characterized in that they each include: a second base plate mounted on the second inner wall of the side frame and having a passage communicating with a through hole of the second inner wall of the side frame; a second opening / closing cover configured to open / close the passage of the second base plate; a second spring providing a restoring force to the second opening / closing cover so that the second opening / closing cover closes the passage of the second base plate; and a second cap body fixed to the second base plate and supporting the second spring.

[0020] In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of second venting devices are each characterized in that they are exposed to the outside through a through hole in the second outer wall.

[0021] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the venting device is mounted on the pack frame so as not to occupy the space of the pack frame that accommodates the battery cells, thereby improving the space utilization and energy density of the battery pack.

[0022] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the venting device is mounted on the pack frame so as not to occupy a receiving space of the pack frame, so that the venting device can be mounted on various parts of the pack frame without being limited in the installation location and number of valve structures.

[0023] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, high-temperature gas generated in a battery cell assembly can be quickly discharged to the front, rear, and side of the battery pack through venting devices mounted on the bottom frame and side frame of the pack frame, thereby improving the safety of the battery pack.

[0024] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from practicing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a side view illustrating a portion of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a side view showing a venting device according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack with the venting device in a closed state.

[0030] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack with the venting device in an open state.

[0031] FIGS. 7A and 7B are cross-sectional views illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a layout diagram schematically illustrating a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 9 is a layout diagram schematically showing a bottom frame of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a venting device mounted on a floor frame.

[0035] FIG. 11 is a layout diagram schematically illustrating a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] In addition, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function may obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description is omitted.

[0039] Since the embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the present invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the sizes and proportions of each component do not fully reflect the actual sizes or proportions.

[0040]

[0041] (Example 1)

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack (10) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a battery pack (10) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a side view illustrating a portion of a battery pack (10) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a side view illustrating a venting device (100) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are cross-sectional views illustrating a portion of a battery pack (10) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, wherein FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a battery pack (10) with a venting device (100) in a closed state, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a battery pack (10) with a venting device (100) in an open state.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, a battery pack (10) may include a pack frame (200), a pack lead (310), a battery cell assembly (400), and a venting device (100).

[0044] The pack frame (200) can provide a receiving space (291) in which a battery cell assembly (400) and various electrical components are received. The pack frame (200) can include a bottom frame (210) and a side frame (250). The bottom frame (210) and the side frames (250) can define a receiving space (291).

[0045] The floor frame (210) can support the battery cell assembly (400). The floor frame (210) can generally have a flat shape extending in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X direction) and a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y direction).

[0046] The side frame (250) may be disposed on an edge of the bottom frame (210). The side frame (250) may be coupled to the periphery of the bottom frame (210) and may extend continuously along the periphery of the bottom frame (210) to surround the battery cell assembly (400). For example, the side frame (250) may include a first segment and a second segment that are opposed in a first horizontal direction (e.g., an X-direction), and a third segment and a fourth segment that are opposed in a second horizontal direction (e.g., a Y-direction). The first segment of the side frame (250) may be at the front of the battery pack (10), and the second segment of the side frame (250) may be at the rear of the battery pack (10).

[0047] The pack frame (200) may include an inner wall (261) and an outer wall (263). The outer wall (263) constitutes the exterior of the pack frame (200) and may be exposed to an external space (ES) outside the pack frame (200). The inner wall (261) and the outer wall (263) may be spaced apart from each other, and a space may be provided between the inner wall (261) and the outer wall (263). A venting passage (265) may be provided between the inner wall (261) and the outer wall (263) of the pack frame (200). The venting passage (265) guides the flow of gas within the pack frame (200) and may include a mounting space in which a venting device (100) is mounted. The inner wall (261) may correspond to an inner wall of a side frame (250) or an inner wall of a bottom frame (210). The above outer wall (263) may correspond to the outer wall of the side frame (250) or the outer wall of the floor frame (210). The above venting passage (265) may be a venting passage provided within the side frame (250) or a venting passage provided in the floor frame (210).

[0048] The pack frame (200) may further include internal frames (281) coupled to the bottom frame (210). The internal frames (281) may be spaced apart from each other in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X direction), and each of the internal frames (281) may extend in a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y direction). The internal frames (281) may partition the internal space (291) of the pack frame (200) into a plurality of spaces. One battery cell assembly (400) may be arranged in each of the plurality of spaces of the pack frame (200) defined by the internal frames (281).

[0049] A pack lid (310) may be coupled to the pack frame (200) to cover a battery cell assembly (400) accommodated in the pack frame (200). The pack lid (310) may cover the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) so that the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) is sealed. The pack lid (310) may be coupled to the top of the side frame (250). The pack lid (310) may generally have a flat shape extending in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X direction) and a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y direction).

[0050] A battery cell assembly (400) may be provided within a receiving space (291) of a pack frame (200). The battery cell assembly (400) may correspond to a battery module or a cell-to-pack structure. The battery pack (10) may include one or a plurality of battery cell assemblies (400). In exemplary embodiments, the battery pack (10) may include a plurality of battery cell assemblies (400) arranged in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X-direction) and / or a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y-direction).

[0051] A battery cell assembly (400) may include a plurality of battery cells (410). Each battery cell (410) is a basic unit of a lithium ion battery, i.e., a secondary battery. Each battery cell (410) may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a cell case. The electrode assembly built into the cell case may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. The electrode assembly may be either a jelly-roll type or a stack type depending on the assembly form. A jelly-roll type electrode assembly may include a winding structure of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed therebetween. A stack type electrode assembly may include a plurality of sequentially stacked positive electrodes, a plurality of negative electrodes, and a plurality of separators interposed therebetween. The positive electrode may include a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode active material. The negative electrode may include a negative electrode current collector and an negative electrode active material.

[0052] A plurality of battery cells (410) may be connected in series and / or in parallel. For example, a plurality of battery cells (410) may be connected in series with each other. For example, a plurality of battery cells (410) may also be connected in parallel with each other. For example, when a set of two or more battery cells (410) connected in parallel with each other is defined as a bank, one bank composed of two or more battery cells (410) connected in parallel with each other and another bank composed of two or more battery cells (410) connected in parallel with each other may be connected in series.

[0053] Each battery cell (410) may be a pouch-type battery cell, a cylindrical battery cell, or a square battery cell. The electrode assembly of the pouch-type battery cell is housed in a pouch cell case including an aluminum laminate sheet. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is housed in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the square battery cell is housed in a square metal can.

[0054] The battery cell assembly (400) may be attached to the bottom frame (210) by a thermally conductive adhesive layer (510). In exemplary embodiments, the thermally conductive adhesive layer (510) may be in direct contact with the battery cells (410) and may thermally and physically couple the battery cells (410) to the bottom frame (210). For example, the thermally conductive adhesive layer (510) may include a thermal resin and / or a thermal interface material (TIM).

[0055] The battery cell assembly (400) may include a pair of side beams (420) fastened to the pack frame (200). The pair of side beams (420) may be spaced apart from each other with battery cells (410) arranged in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X direction). One of the pair of side beams (420) may be attached to an outermost battery cell (410) among the battery cells (410), and the other of the pair of side beams (420) may be attached to another outermost battery cell (410) among the battery cells (410). Each of the pair of side beams (420) may be fastened to a corresponding inner frame (281) among the inner frames (281) of the pack frame (200) via a bolt (BT).

[0056] The venting device (100) may be mounted on the pack frame (200). In FIG. 1, the venting device (100) is illustrated as being mounted on the first segment of the side frame (250) at the front of the side frame (250). However, this is not limited thereto, and the venting device (100) may be mounted on at least one of the segments of the side frame (250), and may also be mounted on the bottom frame (210).

[0057] The venting device (100) may be configured to open and close the internal passage depending on the pressure in the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200). The venting device (100) may be configured to switch between a closed state and an open state depending on the pressure in the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200).

[0058] In a closed state of the venting device (100), the venting device (100) can block the flow of gas between the external space (ES) and the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200) by closing the passage between the external space (ES) and the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200). In an open state of the venting device (100), the venting device (100) can open the passage between the external space (ES) and the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200) by allowing the flow of gas between the external space (ES) and the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200).

[0059] When the pressure in the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) is lower than or equal to a preset reference value, the venting device (100) is in a closed state, and when the pressure in the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) exceeds the preset reference value, the venting device (100) may be in an open state. When the pressure in the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) exceeds the preset reference value, the venting device (100) is in an open state, and the pressure in the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) may be reduced as the gas in the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) is released to the external space (ES). When the pressure in the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) is reduced and the pressure in the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) becomes lower than or equal to a preset reference value, the venting device (100) may be switched from an open state to a closed state.

[0060] The venting device (100) may be installed within a venting passage (265) provided between the inner wall (261) and the outer wall (263) of the pack frame (200). In exemplary embodiments, the venting device (100) may be mounted to the pack frame (200) so that its entirety is accommodated within the venting passage (265) of the pack frame (200). In exemplary embodiments, the venting device (100) may be provided entirely between the inner wall (261) and the outer wall (263) of the pack frame (200). In exemplary embodiments, components of the venting device (100) may be mounted to the pack frame (200) so as not to penetrate within the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200). When the venting device (100) is mounted on the side frame (250), the thickness of the venting device (100) in the thickness direction of the side frame (250) may be smaller than the thickness of the side frame (250). When the venting device (100) is mounted on the floor frame (210), the thickness of the venting device (100) in the thickness direction of the floor frame (210) may be smaller than the thickness of the floor frame (210).

[0061] The inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200) may include a through hole (2611) communicating with the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200). The outer wall (263) of the pack frame (200) may include a through hole (2631) communicating with the external space (ES). The venting passage (265) of the pack frame (200) may communicate with the external space (ES) through the through hole (2631) of the outer wall (263). The venting device (100) may be exposed to the outside of the battery pack (10) through the through hole (2631) of the outer wall (263) of the pack frame (200).

[0062] The venting device (100) may include a base plate (110), an opening / closing cover (120), a spring (130), and a cap body (140).

[0063] The base plate (110) can be mounted on the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200). The base plate (110) can be in close contact with the outer surface of the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200) facing the outer wall (263). The base plate (110) can include a passage (111) that communicates with a through hole (2611) of the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200). The passage (111) of the base plate (110) can communicate with the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200) through the through hole (2611) of the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200). A sealing ring can be arranged between the inner walls (261) of the pack frame (200) to prevent gas leakage.

[0064] The opening / closing cover (120) can open and close the passage (111) of the base plate (110). The opening / closing cover (120) can be switched between a closed position that closes the passage (111) of the base plate (110) and an open position that opens the passage (111) of the base plate (110) depending on the pressure of the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200). In the closed state of the venting device (100), the opening / closing cover (120) can be in the closed position. In the open state of the venting device (100), the opening / closing cover (120) can be in the open position. The opening / closing cover (120) can be configured to move linearly between the open position and the closed position. The closed position of the opening / closing cover (120) can be closer to the inner wall (261) than the open position of the opening / closing cover (120).

[0065] When the opening / closing cover (120) is in the closed position, the opening / closing cover (120) can close the passage (111) of the base plate (110) to the external space (ES) so that the passage (111) of the base plate (110) does not communicate with the external space (ES). When the opening / closing cover (120) is in the closed position, the gas flow between the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200) and the external space (ES) can be blocked.

[0066] When the opening / closing cover (120) is in the open position, the opening / closing cover (120) can open the passage (111) of the base plate (110) to the external space (ES) so that the passage (111) of the base plate (110) is in communication with the external space (ES). When the opening / closing cover (120) is in the open position, gas can flow from the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200) to the external space (ES) through the passage (111) of the base plate (110).

[0067] The cap body (140) can be fixed to the base plate (110). The cap body (140) can contact one end of the spring (130) and support one end of the spring (130). The cap body (140) can include a support portion that supports one end of the spring (130) and a connection portion that extends between the support portion and the base plate (110). The support portion of the cap body (140) can include a protrusion (141) that supports the spring (130). The connection portion of the cap body (140) can be fastened to the base plate (110) via a bolt (150). By fastening the connection portion of the cap body (140) to the base plate (110) via the bolt (150), the cap body (140) can be fixed to the base plate (110).

[0068] The spring (130) can provide a restoring force to the opening / closing cover (120) in a direction from the open position to the closed position of the opening / closing cover (120). For example, the spring (130) can be configured to press the opening / closing cover (120) in a direction from the outer wall (263) toward the inner wall (261). The spring (130) can be provided between the cap body (140) and the opening / closing cover (120). The cap body (140) can support one end of the spring (130), and the opening / closing cover (120) can support the other end of the spring (130). In exemplary embodiments, the spring (130) can be a coil spring. The spring (130) can be mounted to the cap body (140) such that a portion of the spring (130) is wound around a protrusion (141) of the cap body (140).

[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 5, when the pressure in the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200) is below a predetermined reference value, the opening / closing cover (120) can be fixed in a closed position by being pressed by the spring (130). When the opening / closing cover (120) is in the closed position, components of the venting device (100), such as the opening / closing cover (120) and the spring (130), do not penetrate into the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200).

[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 6, when the pressure in the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200) exceeds a predetermined reference value, the opening / closing cover (120) can gradually move from the closed position toward the open position or from the inner wall (261) toward the outer wall (263). When the opening / closing cover (120) is positioned in the open position, the venting gas (VG) can be discharged to the external space (ES) through the passage (111) of the base plate (110), the gap between the opening / closing cover (120) and the base plate (110), the passage between the inner wall (261) and the outer wall (263), and the through hole (2631) of the outer wall (263).

[0071] The pack frame (200) may include a fastening bolt (320) for fastening the venting device (100). The fastening bolt (320) may be coupled to the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200) and may include a protrusion protruding from the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200) in a direction from the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200) toward the outer wall (263). The fastening bolt (320) may be a clinching bolt coupled to the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200) in a self-clinching manner. The protrusion of the fastening bolt (320) may be inserted into a fastening hole (113 of FIG. 7A) of the base plate (110). The battery pack (10) may further include a nut (330) fitted into the protrusion of the fastening bolt (320). The inner surface of the nut (330) may be provided with screw threads that engage with the screw threads provided on the outer surface of the protrusion of the fastening bolt (320). The base plate (110) of the venting device (100) may be fixed to the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200) by the nut (330) being fitted into the protrusion of the fastening bolt (320).

[0072] In the battery pack according to the comparative example, a portion of the valve structure mounted on the pack frame is configured to penetrate the receiving space of the pack frame. In this case, the space occupied by the valve structure within the receiving space of the pack frame cannot be used for battery cells, which reduces the space utilization of the battery pack. Furthermore, to minimize the space occupied by the valve structure within the receiving space of the pack frame, there were restrictions on the installation location and number of valve structures.

[0073] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the venting device (100) is mounted on the pack frame (200) so as not to occupy the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) that accommodates the battery cell (410), thereby improving the space utilization and energy density of the battery pack (10).

[0074] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the venting device (100) is mounted on the pack frame (200) so as not to occupy the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200), so that the venting device (100) can be mounted on various parts of the pack frame (200) without being limited to the installation position and number of valve structures.

[0075]

[0076] (Example 2)

[0077] FIGS. 7A and 7B are cross-sectional views showing a method for manufacturing a battery pack (10) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0078] Referring to Fig. 7a, a fastening bolt (320) is fastened to the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200). The fastening bolt (320) may be fastened to the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200) in a self-clinching manner. The fastening bolt (320) may have a protrusion protruding from the inner wall (261) in a direction from the inner wall (261) toward the outer wall (263).

[0079] Referring to FIG. 7b and FIG. 5, the venting device (100) is assembled to the pack frame (200). Assembling the venting device (100) to the pack frame (200) may include introducing the venting device (100) into the venting passage (265) of the pack frame (200) through the through hole (2631) of the outer wall (263), positioning the venting device (100) so that the fastening hole (113) of the base plate (110) of the venting device (100) is inserted into the protrusion of the fastening bolt (320), and inserting a nut (330) into the protrusion of the fastening bolt (320) to secure the base plate (110) of the venting device (100) to the inner wall (261) of the pack frame (200).

[0080] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the assembly work of the venting device (100) for assembling the venting device (100) to the pack frame (200) can be performed on the outside of the pack frame (200). In this case, it is unnecessary to secure a space for assembling the venting device (100) in the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200), and the assembly work of the venting device (100) can be performed in a state where the pack lid (310) is coupled to the pack frame (200). Since the assembly work of the venting device (100) can be performed in a state where the pack lid (310) is coupled to the pack frame (200), the assembly of the venting device (100) can be performed in the EOL (end-of-line) test stage.

[0081]

[0082] (Example 3)

[0083] Figure 8 is a layout diagram schematically illustrating a battery pack (10A) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In the following, any details that overlap with those previously described are omitted or simplified.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 8, the battery pack (10A) may include a plurality of venting devices (100) mounted on a side frame (250). The side frame (250) may include an inner wall (271) and an outer wall (273) spaced apart in a horizontal direction (e.g., in the X-direction or the Y-direction). A venting passage (275) may be provided between the inner wall (271) and the outer wall (273). Each venting device (100) is mounted on the inner wall (271) of the side frame (250) and may be accommodated within the venting passage (275) of the side frame (250). When the internal pressure of the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200 in FIG. 1) exceeds a reference value, the plurality of venting devices (100) are opened, and the venting gas (VG) within the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200) can be discharged to the external space through the through holes (2711) of the inner wall (271), the internal passage of the plurality of venting devices (100), and the through holes (2731) of the outer wall (273).

[0085] When viewed from a plan view, the side frame (250) may have a square ring shape, and the venting passage (275) provided inside the side frame (250) may extend continuously along the side frame (250) to have a square ring shape. The side frame (250) may include a first segment (251) and a second segment (252) spaced apart in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X direction) with an accommodation space (291) therebetween, and a third segment (253) and a fourth segment (254) spaced apart in a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y direction) with the accommodation space (291) therebetween. The first segment (251) of the side frame (250) may be at the front of the battery pack (10A), and the second segment (252) of the side frame (250) may be at the rear of the battery pack (10A). The first segment (251) and the second segment (252) may each extend in a second horizontal direction (e.g., the Y direction). The third segment (253) and the fourth segment (254) may each extend in a first horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction) between the first segment (251) and the second segment (252).

[0086] At least one venting device (100) may be mounted on at least two of the first to fourth segments (251, 252, 253, 254) of the side frame (250). In exemplary embodiments, each of the first to fourth segments (251, 252, 253, 254) of the side frame (250) may be mounted with at least one venting device (100). The venting devices (100) mounted on the first to fourth segments (251, 252, 253, 254) of the side frame (250) may be provided within the venting passage (275) of the side frame (250). When the internal pressure of the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) exceeds a reference value, the venting gas (VG) flows into the venting passage (275) of the side frame (250), flows inside the side frame (250) along the venting passage (275) of the side frame (250), and can be discharged to the outside through the through holes (2731) of the outer wall (273). In this case, the high-temperature gas generated in the battery cell assembly (400) can be quickly discharged to the front, rear, and side of the battery pack (10A) through the venting devices (100) and the venting passage (275) of the side frame (250), thereby improving the safety of the battery pack (10A).

[0087]

[0088] (Example 4)

[0089] Fig. 9 is a layout diagram schematically illustrating a bottom frame (210) of a battery pack (10B) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a venting device (100) mounted on the bottom frame (210). In the following, any details that overlap with those described above will be omitted or simplified.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, in the pack frame (200 of FIG. 1) of the battery pack (10B), the bottom frame (210) may include a venting passage (225) and a cooling passage (227). The bottom frame (210) includes an inner wall (221) and an outer wall (223) spaced apart in a vertical direction (e.g., in the Z direction), and the venting passage (225) and the cooling passage (227) may be provided between the inner wall (221) and the outer wall (223), respectively. The venting passage (225) and the cooling passage (227) may each extend in a first horizontal direction (e.g., in the X direction). The venting passage (225) and the cooling passage (227) may be spaced apart from each other in a second horizontal direction (e.g., in the Y direction). An end of the venting passage (225) may be exposed to an external space of the battery pack (10B). The venting passage (225) can communicate with the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200) when the venting device (100) is in an open state. The cooling passage (227) does not communicate with the receiving space (291) of the pack frame (200). The bottom frame (210) can include a plurality of venting passages (225) spaced apart from each other in a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y direction) and a plurality of cooling passages (227) spaced apart from each other in a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y direction).

[0091] The battery pack (10B) may include a plurality of venting devices (100) mounted on a floor frame (210). Each venting device (100) is mounted on an inner wall (221) of the floor frame (210) and may be accommodated within a venting passage (225) of the floor frame (210). When the internal pressure of the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) exceeds a reference value, the plurality of venting devices (100) are opened, and the venting gas (VG) within the accommodation space (291) of the pack frame (200) may be discharged to the outside space through the through-holes (2211) of the inner wall (221), the internal passages of the plurality of venting devices (100), and the venting passage (225) of the floor frame (210).

[0092] The cooling passage (227) can guide externally supplied cooling fluid. The cooling fluid may include coolant and / or refrigerant. The externally supplied cooling fluid may be introduced into the cooling passage (227) through an inlet pipe mounted on the floor frame (210), flow along the cooling passage (227), and be discharged to the outside through an outlet pipe mounted on the floor frame (210). While the cooling fluid flows along the cooling passage (227), cooling of the battery cell assemblies (400) may be performed.

[0093] In exemplary embodiments, the floor frame (210) may include a cover plate (231) that covers and closes a through hole (2231) of an outer wall (223) that overlaps the venting device (100) in one direction (e.g., in the Z direction). The cover plate (231) may close the through hole (2231) of the outer wall (223), thereby preventing gas in the venting passage (225) from being discharged into the external space through the through hole (2231) of the outer wall (223).

[0094] The assembly work of assembling the venting device (100) to the floor frame (210) can be performed without attaching the cover plate (231) to the outer wall (223), and after the assembly work of the venting device (100) is completed, the cover plate (231) can be attached to the outer wall (223) to close the through hole (2231) of the outer wall (223). More specifically, the manufacturing of the battery pack (10B) may include self-clinching fastening of a fastening bolt (320) to an inner wall (221) of a bottom frame (210), introducing a venting device (100) into a venting passage (225) of the bottom frame (210) through a through hole (2231) of an outer wall (223), positioning the venting device (100) so that the fastening hole of the base plate (110) of the venting device (100) is inserted into a protrusion of the fastening bolt (320), and inserting a nut (330) into the protrusion of the fastening bolt (320) to secure the base plate (110) of the venting device (100) to the inner wall (221) of the pack frame (200), and fastening a cover plate (231) to the outer wall (223).

[0095] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, high-temperature gas generated in the battery cell assembly (400) can be quickly discharged to the front, rear, and side of the battery pack (10B) through the venting devices (100) mounted on the bottom frame (210) and side frame (250) of the pack frame (200), thereby improving the safety of the battery pack (10B).

[0096]

[0097] (Example 5)

[0098] Fig. 11 is a layout diagram schematically illustrating a battery pack (10C) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In the following, any details that overlap with those previously described are omitted or simplified.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 11, in the battery pack (10C), a plurality of battery cell assemblies (400) may be arranged in a first horizontal direction (e.g., X direction) and a second horizontal direction (e.g., Y direction) on a floor frame (210), and a plurality of venting devices (100) may be mounted on the floor frame (210) or the side frame (250), respectively. In the floor frame (210), the venting devices (100) may be disposed at a center portion of the floor frame (210). In exemplary embodiments, in the floor frame (210), the venting devices (100) may be disposed between adjacent battery cell assemblies (400) in the second horizontal direction (e.g., Y direction), respectively.

[0100] According to exemplary embodiments, high-temperature gas generated in the battery cell assembly (400) can be quickly discharged to the front, rear, and side of the battery pack (10B) through the venting devices (100) mounted on the bottom frame (210) and the side frame (250), thereby improving the safety of the battery pack (10B).

[0101]

[0102] The present invention has been described in more detail through drawings and examples. However, the configurations described in the drawings or examples described in this specification are merely embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modified examples may exist as of the time of this application.

Claims

1. A battery cell assembly including a battery cell; A pack frame comprising a bottom frame supporting the battery cell assembly and a side frame coupled to the bottom frame, wherein the bottom frame and the side frame define a receiving space for receiving the battery cell assembly, and the bottom frame includes a first venting passage communicating with an external space; and A first venting device arranged within the first venting passage of the floor frame and configured to open and close the internal passage according to the pressure of the receiving space of the pack frame; Battery pack containing.

2. In paragraph 1, The above pack frame further includes cooling passages configured to allow cooling fluid to flow, The first venting passage and the cooling passage extend in the first direction, A battery pack, characterized in that the first venting passage and the cooling passage are spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery pack, characterized in that the first venting device is entirely accommodated within the first venting passage of the bottom frame.

4. In paragraph 1, The floor frame includes a first inner wall and a first outer wall defining the first venting passage, The above first venting device is, A first base plate mounted on the first inner wall of the floor frame and having a passage communicating with a through hole of the first inner wall of the floor frame; A first opening / closing cover configured to open / close the passage of the first base plate; A first spring providing a restoring force to the first opening / closing cover so that the first opening / closing cover closes the passage of the first base plate; and A first cap body fixed to the first base plate and supporting the first spring; A battery pack comprising:

5. In paragraph 4, The first opening / closing cover is configured to move between a closed position that closes the passage of the first base plate and an open position that opens the passage of the first base plate, The closed position of the first opening / closing cover is closer to the first inner wall than the open position of the first opening / closing cover, A battery pack characterized in that the first spring is configured to press the first opening / closing cover in a direction from the first outer wall toward the first inner wall.

6. In paragraph 5, A battery pack characterized in that when the first opening / closing cover is in the closed position, the first spring does not penetrate into the receiving space of the pack frame.

7. In paragraph 4, A battery pack, characterized in that one end of the first spring contacts the first cap body, and the other end of the first spring contacts the first opening / closing cover.

8. In paragraph 4, A battery pack, characterized in that the first cap body includes a protrusion supporting the first spring.

9. In paragraph 4, A first fastening bolt coupled to the first inner wall of the floor frame and including a protrusion protruding from the first inner wall of the floor frame in a direction from the first inner wall of the floor frame toward the first outer wall of the floor frame; and A first nut fitted into the protrusion of the first fastening bolt; Including more, The first base plate includes a fastening hole into which the protrusion of the first fastening bolt is inserted, A battery pack characterized in that the first base plate is fixed to the first inner wall of the bottom frame by the first nut being fitted into the protrusion of the first fastening bolt.

10. In paragraph 4, A battery pack characterized in that the bottom frame further includes a cover plate coupled to the first outer wall so as to cover a through hole of the first outer wall overlapping the first venting device in one direction.

11. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a plurality of second venting devices arranged within a second venting passage provided between the second inner wall and the second outer wall of the side frame, A battery pack characterized in that each of the plurality of second venting devices is configured to open and close an internal passage according to the pressure of the receiving space of the pack frame.

12. In paragraph 11, The side frame includes a first segment and a second segment spaced apart in a third direction with the accommodation space therebetween, and a third segment and a fourth segment perpendicular to the third direction with the accommodation space therebetween, A battery pack, characterized in that the plurality of second venting devices are mounted on two or more of the first segment, the second segment, the third segment, and the fourth segment of the side frame.

13. In paragraph 11, A battery pack characterized in that each of the plurality of second venting devices is entirely accommodated within the second venting passage of the side frame.

14. In paragraph 11, Each of the plurality of second venting devices is: A second base plate mounted on the second inner wall of the side frame and having a passage communicating with a through hole of the second inner wall of the side frame; A second opening / closing cover configured to open / close the passage of the second base plate; A second spring providing a restoring force to the second opening / closing cover so that the second opening / closing cover closes the passage of the second base plate; and A second cap body fixed to the second base plate and supporting the second spring; A battery pack comprising:

15. In paragraph 11, A battery pack characterized in that each of the plurality of second venting devices is exposed to the outside through a through hole in the second outer wall.

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