Battery pack and device comprising same

Abstract

A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a battery module; a pack frame which accommodates the battery module and has one open side; a pack cover that covers the open side of the pack frame; and a fireproof sheet attached to one end of the pack cover. The battery module comprises: a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a venting portion formed on one surface of the battery module for discharging venting gas; and a protruding pin protruding from one surface of the battery module toward the pack cover.

Description

Battery pack and device including same

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

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0057822, filed April 30, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The present invention relates to a battery pack and a device including the same, and more specifically, to a battery pack capable of effectively controlling heat transfer and a device including the same.

[0004] In modern society, the widespread use of portable devices like cell phones, laptops, camcorders, and digital cameras has fueled active development of technologies related to these devices. Furthermore, rechargeable secondary batteries are increasingly being used as power sources for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs) to address air pollution caused by conventional gasoline-powered vehicles, further fueling the growing need for secondary battery development.

[0005] Currently commercialized secondary batteries include nickel cadmium batteries, nickel hydrogen batteries, nickel zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Among these, lithium secondary batteries are receiving attention for their advantages of being able to charge and discharge freely, having a very low self-discharge rate, and having a high energy density, as they have almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries.

[0006] These lithium secondary batteries primarily use lithium oxide and carbon materials as the positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. The lithium secondary battery comprises an electrode assembly comprising a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate, each coated with the positive and negative electrode active materials, with a separator interposed between them, and a battery case that seals and houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

[0007] In general, lithium secondary batteries can be classified into can-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is built into a metal can and pouch-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is built into a pouch of an aluminum laminate sheet, depending on the shape of the outer packaging material.

[0008] Secondary batteries used in small devices are configured with 2-3 battery cells, but secondary batteries used in medium- to large-sized devices such as automobiles utilize battery modules in which multiple battery cells are electrically connected. These battery modules enhance capacity and output by forming a battery cell stack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel. In addition, one or more battery modules may be mounted together with various control and protection systems, such as a Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU), a Battery Management System (BMS), and a cooling system, to form a battery pack.

[0009] A battery pack may include battery modules as a sub-concept, and a battery module may include battery cells as a sub-concept. The number of battery cells contained in a battery module or the number of battery modules contained in a battery pack may vary depending on the output or capacity of the battery pack required for the electric vehicle.

[0010] However, safety is a key issue for these battery packs. Specifically, if a thermal event occurs in at least one of the multiple battery cells contained within the pack, high-temperature venting gases and heat are generated. To protect the battery pack from these high-temperature venting gases and heat, and to dissipate them to the outside, venting space must be secured and maintained within the battery pack.

[0011] A battery pack may include a pack cover covering one end of the battery pack, and a fire-resistant sheet may be attached to one end of the pack cover. This fire-resistant sheet can protect the pack cover from high-temperature venting gases and heat emitted from the battery module. However, over time or when a thermal event occurs, the performance of the heat-resistant adhesive may deteriorate due to heat, causing the fire-resistant sheet to separate from the pack cover. If the fire-resistant sheet sags or separates from the pack cover, the venting space through which venting gases are emitted may be reduced, which may deteriorate the thermal management performance of the battery module.

[0012] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to prevent the refractory sheet from sagging or separating from the pack cover over time or when a thermal event occurs. Specifically, the present invention provides a battery module and a battery pack including the same, which can effectively control heat transfer by preventing the refractory sheet from sagging or separating from the pack cover.

[0013] However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the problems described above and can be expanded in various ways within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present invention.

[0014] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a battery module; a pack frame in which the battery module is accommodated and has one side open; a pack cover covering the open side of the pack frame; and a fireproof sheet attached to one end of the pack cover. The battery module comprises: a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a venting portion formed on one surface of the battery module for venting gas discharge; and a protruding pin protruding from one surface of the battery module toward the pack cover.

[0015] The above protruding pin can extend along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

[0016] The above protruding pin can extend along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

[0017] The above protruding pin can be placed between the above venting parts.

[0018] The above protruding pin can be brought into contact with the above refractory sheet.

[0019] The battery module includes a module frame in which the battery cell stack is housed and one side is open; and a top cover assembly covering the open one side of the module frame; and the protruding pin may be provided in the top cover assembly.

[0020] The top cover assembly may include a top plate positioned on one side of the battery cells; and a top cover covering one surface of the top plate.

[0021] The above protruding pin is formed on the top plate and can protrude to one side through the top cover.

[0022] The above venting portion may be formed in the top plate and include at least one venting hole for gas discharge inside the module frame.

[0023] The above venting portion may include a rupture portion formed in the top cover and positioned to correspond to the venting hole, and having a structure that ruptures when a certain pressure is exceeded.

[0024] An opening may be formed in an area excluding a connecting portion among the perimeter of the above-mentioned rupture portion, and the above-mentioned rupture portion may be connected to the top cover by the connecting portion.

[0025] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a device including the battery pack is provided.

[0026] According to embodiments of the present invention, by applying a plurality of protruding pins protruding in the direction of the pack cover to a module top plate provided at one end of a battery module, heat transfer can be effectively controlled by preventing sagging of the refractory sheet or separation from the pack cover.

[0027] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view showing a portion of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cross-section taken along the cutting line A-A' of Fig. 1.

[0030] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4 is a plan view of the battery module of Figure 3 viewed from above.

[0032] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of Figure 3.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a battery cell stack, a first busbar frame, and a second busbar frame included in the battery module of FIGS. 3 and 5.

[0034] Figures 7 to 9 are perspective views showing battery modules according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a top cover assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the top plate of the top cover assembly of Fig. 10.

[0037] Figure 12 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of “B” of Figure 11.

[0038] Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing the top cover of the top cover assembly of Fig. 10.

[0039] Fig. 14 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of “C” of Fig. 13.

[0040] Figure 15 is a plan view from above of a top plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 16 is a plan view from above of a top cover according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figures 17 and 18 are cross-sectional views showing a venting part according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0043] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0044] In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts that are not related to the description are omitted, and the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0045] Furthermore, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily indicated for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to the illustrated components. In the drawings, the thicknesses are enlarged to clearly represent various layers and regions. Furthermore, in the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated for convenience of explanation.

[0046] Furthermore, when we say that a layer, membrane, region, plate, or other part is "on" or "over" another part, this includes not only cases where it is "directly on" the other part, but also cases where there are other parts in between. Conversely, when we say that a part is "directly on" another part, we mean that there are no other parts in between. Furthermore, saying that a part is "on" or "over" a reference part means that it is located above or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean that it is located "above" or "over" the reference part in the opposite direction of gravity.

[0047] Additionally, throughout the specification, whenever a part is said to "include" a component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0048] Additionally, throughout the specification, when we say "in plan", we mean when the target portion is viewed from above, and when we say "in cross section", we mean when the target portion is viewed from the side in a cross-section cut vertically.

[0049] Fig. 1 is a partial perspective view showing a portion of a battery pack (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a cross-section taken along the cutting line A-A' of Fig. 1.

[0050] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery pack (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery module (100); a pack frame (1100) in which the battery module (100) is accommodated and one side of which is open; a pack cover (1200) covering the open side of the pack frame (1100); and a fire-resistant sheet (1300) attached to one end of the pack cover (1200).

[0051] The pack frame (1100) may include a bottom frame (1110) on which at least one battery module (100) is placed, and a side frame (1120) extending along an edge of the bottom frame (1110). The side frame (1120) may extend in a direction perpendicular to one side of the bottom frame (1110). An internal space having an open side is provided by the bottom frame (1110) and the side frame (1120), and at least one battery module (100) may be stored in this internal space.

[0052] Meanwhile, the pack cover (1200) can cover one open side of the pack frame (1100).

[0053] The battery pack (1000) according to the present embodiment may further include a fire-resistant sheet (1300) attached to the lower surface of the pack cover (1200) between the battery module (100) and the pack cover (1200). The fire-resistant sheet (1300) may protect the pack cover (1200) from high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the battery module (100). For example, the fire-resistant sheet (1300) may be a thin plate-shaped sheet including a MICA material, and may be attached to the lower surface of the pack cover (1200) using a heat-resistant adhesive.

[0054] Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing a battery module (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 is a plan view of the battery module (100) of Fig. 3 as viewed from above. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module (100) of Fig. 3. Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing a battery cell stack (120), a first busbar frame (410), and a second busbar frame (420) included in the battery module (100) of Figs. 3 and 5.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, a battery module (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack (120) in which a plurality of battery cells (110) are stacked; a venting portion (220V) formed on one surface of the battery module (100) for venting gas discharge; and a protruding pin (600) protruding from one surface of the battery module (100) toward a pack cover (1200).

[0056] The battery module (100) according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of battery cells (110). The battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment may be a battery cell of various shapes, for example, a pouch-shaped battery cell, a square battery cell, or a cylindrical battery cell. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6 , the battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment may be a pouch-shaped battery cell. Hereinafter, a pouch-shaped battery cell will be described, but the battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment is not limited thereto, and various types of battery cells may be applied.

[0057] The battery modules (100) may be configured with a plurality of battery cells (110). For example, the plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along one direction so as to be electrically connected to each other to form a battery cell stack (120). For example, the plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along a direction parallel to the x-axis while standing upright. The battery cells (110) may be stacked from one side (212) of the bottom frame (210) to the other side (212) in a state where one side of the battery cells (110) is parallel to the side surfaces (212) of the bottom frame (210). Accordingly, the electrode leads (111) may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked. In a battery cell (110), one electrode lead (111) may protrude in the y-axis direction, and the other electrode lead (111) may protrude in the -y-axis direction. If the battery cell has electrode leads (111) protruding in only one direction, the electrode leads (111) may protrude in the y-axis direction or the -y-axis direction.

[0058] The battery module (100) according to the present embodiment may have a one-sided venting structure that discharges high-temperature venting gas and heat due to a thermal event in one direction.

[0059] The venting unit (220V) in the present invention refers to a mechanism for discharging high-temperature venting gas and heat generated inside the battery module (100) to the outside of the battery module (100). That is, as long as it is possible to discharging high-temperature venting gas and heat generated inside the battery module (100) due to a thermal event, there is no particular limitation on the structure or shape of the venting unit (220V). In the case of the battery module (100) according to the present embodiment, high-temperature venting gas and heat due to a thermal event can be discharged in one direction through the venting unit (220V).

[0060] The battery module (100) according to the present embodiment includes a protruding pin (600) protruding in one direction from one surface of the battery module (100). The protruding pin (600) may protrude from one surface of the battery module (100) toward the pack cover (1200). Due to the protruding pin (600), a venting space through which high-temperature venting gas and heat can flow between the battery module (100) and the pack cover (1200) may be secured and maintained.

[0061] At this time, the protruding pin (600) protruding in one direction from one side of the battery module (100) can secure and maintain a venting space (VS) through which high-temperature venting gas and heat can flow between the battery module (100) and the pack cover (1200). In order to protect the battery pack (1000) from high-temperature venting gas and heat generated by a thermal event or thermal runaway and to stably discharge them to the outside of the battery pack (1000), the venting space (VS) must be stably secured and maintained within the battery pack (1000). If the pack cover (1200) is bent inward or adheres closely to the battery module (100) and a sufficient venting space (VS) is not secured and maintained, it is difficult for the high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting portion (220V) of the battery module (100) to be discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1000). If the high-temperature venting gas and heat are not smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1000), it may lead to an explosion or fire of the battery pack (1000). In addition, as the performance of the heat-resistant adhesive deteriorates over time due to heat, the fire-resistant sheet (1300) may separate from the pack cover (1200).

[0062] Accordingly, in this embodiment, a structure capable of supporting the pack cover (1200) and the refractory sheet (1300) is implemented by providing a protruding pin (600) protruding in one direction from one surface of the battery module (100). There is no particular limitation on the degree of protrusion of the protruding pin (600) as long as a minimum venting space (VS) can be secured. The degree of protrusion of the protruding pin (600) can be adjusted in consideration of the size of the battery module (100) and the gap between the battery module (100) and the pack cover (1200), and the protruding pin (600) can be in contact with the pack cover (1200) or spaced apart from the pack cover (1200). That is, in the case of the battery pack (1000) according to the present embodiment, the safety of the battery pack (1000) is improved because a venting space (VS) through which high-temperature venting gas and heat flow can be secured and maintained between the battery module (100) and the pack cover (1200).

[0063] If there is no protruding pin (600) protruding toward the refractory sheet (1300), the fallen refractory sheet (1300) covers the venting part (220V), and the high-temperature venting gas and heat cannot be properly discharged. On the other hand, in the case of the present embodiment, even if the refractory sheet (1300) is separated from the pack cover (1200), the protruding pin (600) can secure and maintain the venting space (VS) between the battery module (100) and the refractory sheet (1300) while supporting the separated refractory sheet (1300). That is, in the case of the battery pack (1000) according to the present embodiment, the safety of the battery pack (1000) is improved because the venting space (VS) through which the high-temperature venting gas and heat flow can be secured and maintained between the battery module (100) and the refractory sheet (1300).

[0064] There is no particular limitation on the number of protruding pins (600), but it is preferable that there be multiple of them so that they can be evenly distributed across one surface of the battery module (100) to secure and maintain a venting space (VS). In addition, there is no particular limitation on the specific shape or configuration of the protruding pins (600) as long as they protrude from one surface of the battery module (100).

[0065] The first busbar frame (410) and the second busbar frame (420) are described in detail below.

[0066] Referring again to FIGS. 1 to 6, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the protruding pin (600) may extend along the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked.

[0067] As described above, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along one direction (the x-axis direction of FIG. 5) so as to be electrically connected to each other to form a battery cell stack (120). In particular, referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the protruding fins (600) may extend along the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked, thereby inducing the direction in which high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting unit (220V), which will be specifically described later, are discharged. That is, when the protruding fins (600) are stacked along the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked as in the present embodiment, the high-temperature venting gas and heat may be discharged along the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked (the x-axis direction of FIG. 5).

[0068] Below, battery modules (100) having protruding fins (600) applied in various ways to continuously induce the direction of discharge of high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting unit (220V) are described.

[0069] Figures 7 to 9 are perspective views showing a battery module (100) according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 7, the protruding pin (600) according to one embodiment of the present invention extends along the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked, but each protruding pin (600) is not continuously connected from one end of the battery module to the other, and the center of the protruding pin (600) may be broken. That is, compared to the protruding pin (600) illustrated in FIG. 6, the protruding pin (600) in the present embodiment can be said to have a smaller role in guiding the direction of discharge of high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting portion (220V).

[0071] Referring to FIG. 8, the protruding pin (600) according to one embodiment of the present invention may extend along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked. That is, the protruding pin (600) may extend along a direction perpendicular to one direction in which a plurality of battery cells (110) are stacked (the y-axis direction in FIG. 8).

[0072] When the protruding pins (600) are stacked along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked, high-temperature venting gas and heat can be discharged along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked (y-axis direction in FIG. 5).

[0073] Referring to FIG. 9, the protruding pin (600) according to one embodiment of the present invention extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked, but each protruding pin (600) is not continuously connected from one end of the battery module to the other, and the center of the protruding pin (600) may be broken. That is, compared to the protruding pin (600) illustrated in FIG. 8, the protruding pin (600) in this embodiment can be said to have a smaller role in guiding the direction of discharge of high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting portion (220V).

[0074] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the protruding pins (600) can be arranged between the venting portions (220V). That is, by providing the protruding pins (600) between the venting portions (220V), the high-temperature venting gas and heat discharged from the venting portions (220V) can be guided to be discharged in an intended direction without hindering the discharge of the high-temperature venting gas and heat from the venting portions (220V).

[0075] The direction, shape, dimensions, etc. of the protruding pin (600) can be intentionally designed by the position of the venting valve (not shown) provided in the battery pack (1000), the venting method of the battery pack (1000), the components of the battery module (100) and the battery pack (1000) and the arrangement of the components, etc. Specifically, for example, the protruding pin (600) extending along the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked and the protruding pin (600) extending along the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked can be used in combination. The direction, shape, dimensions, etc. of the protruding pin (600) are not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0076] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the protruding pin (600) can be in contact with the refractory sheet (1300). In the present embodiment, since the protruding pin (600) is in contact with the refractory sheet (1300), even if the refractory sheet (1300) is separated from the pack cover (1200), since the protruding pin (600) is in contact with and supports the separated refractory sheet (1300) from the beginning, the venting space (VS) between the battery module (100) and the refractory sheet (1300) can be secured and maintained. That is, in the case of the battery pack (1000) according to the present embodiment, the venting space (VS) through which high-temperature venting gas and heat flow can be secured and maintained between the battery module (100) and the refractory sheet (1300), so that the safety of the battery pack (1000) is improved. However, in the case of the present invention, the protruding pin (600) is not limited to a form in which it comes into contact with the refractory sheet (1300). If the protruding pin (600) protrudes to a degree that can secure and maintain a venting space (VS), the protruding pin (600) can be spaced apart from the refractory sheet (1300) by a predetermined distance.

[0077] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a top cover assembly (220) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6 and 10, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery module (100) includes a module frame (200) in which a battery cell stack (120) is accommodated and has one side open; and a top cover assembly (220) covering the open side of the module frame (200); and a protruding pin (600) may be provided in the top cover assembly (220).

[0079] The protruding pin (600) may be formed in the module frame (200). More specifically, the protruding pin (600) may be formed in the top cover assembly (220) of the module frame (200).

[0080] Meanwhile, the battery module (100) may include a module frame (200) that accommodates battery cells (110). For example, a battery cell stack (120) may be accommodated inside the module frame (200). A venting portion (220V) may be formed on one surface of the module frame (200).

[0081] Specifically, the module frame (200) may include a bottom frame (210) on which battery cells (110) are placed and a top cover assembly (220) that covers one side of the battery cells (110). The venting portion (220V) according to the present embodiment may be formed in the top cover assembly (220). The battery cells (110) may be accommodated in a space formed by the bottom frame (210) and the top cover assembly (220). The bottom frame (210) and the top cover assembly (220) may be joined by welding or the like at corresponding corners, so that the module frame (200) may cover the upper side, the lower side, and both sides of the battery cell stack (120).

[0082] For example, the bottom frame (210) according to the present embodiment may include a bottom portion (211) and both side portions (212). The both side portions (212) may extend upward from opposite sides of the bottom portion (211) in a direction perpendicular to one side of the bottom portion (211). The bottom portion (211) and both side portions (212) may cover the lower surface and both side surfaces of the battery cell stack (120). As described above, one surface of the battery cells (110) in the battery cell stack (120) is parallel to the side portions (212) of the bottom frame (210), and the battery cells (110) may be stacked along a direction from one side portion (212) to the other side portion (212). The detailed structure of the top cover assembly (220) according to the present embodiment will be described later with reference to FIGS. 10 to 18.

[0083] Meanwhile, in the battery module (100) according to the present embodiment, a first end plate (310) and a second end plate (320) may be arranged on one side of the battery cell stack (120) in the direction in which the electrode lead (111) protrudes and on the opposite side, respectively. The first end plate (310) and the second end plate (320) may be joined to the module frame (200) by a method such as welding. The module frame (200), the first end plate (310), and the second end plate (320) may include a metal material to have a predetermined strength. The battery cell stack (120) may be covered by the module frame (200), the first end plate (310), and the second end plate (320) to be protected from external shocks or vibrations.

[0084] A battery module (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first insulating cover (810) covering an inner surface of a first end plate (310) and a second insulating cover (820) covering an inner surface of a second end plate (320). The first insulating cover (810) may be positioned between the first end plate (310) and the first busbar frame (410), and the second insulating cover (820) may be positioned between the second end plate (320) and the second busbar frame (420). The first insulating cover (810) and the second insulating cover (820) may include an electrically insulating material, and may prevent a short circuit from occurring when the first end plate (310) and the second end plate (320) come into contact with an electrode lead (111) or a busbar (510).

[0085] Meanwhile, the battery module (100) according to the present embodiment may include a first busbar frame (410) and a second busbar frame (420) that cover one side of the battery cell stack (120) in the direction in which the electrode leads (111) protrude and the opposite side, respectively. The first busbar frame (410) may be positioned between the battery cell stack (120) and the first end plate (310), and the second busbar frame (420) may be positioned between the battery cell stack (120) and the second end plate (320). The first busbar frame (410) and the second busbar frame (420) may include an electrically insulating material, and may prevent a busbar (510) or a terminal busbar (520) described below from coming into contact with other parts of the battery cell (110) other than the electrode leads (111), thereby causing a short circuit.

[0086] A bus bar (510), a terminal bus bar (520), a module connector (530), etc. may be mounted on each of the first bus bar frame (410) and the second bus bar frame (420). Specifically, the bus bar (510), the terminal bus bar (520), and the module connector (530) may be mounted on the opposite side of the side of the first and second bus bar frames (410, 420) that faces the battery cell stack (120). The bus bar (510) may be electrically connected to the electrode lead (111) of the battery cell (110). For example, the bus bar (510) and the electrode lead (111) may be joined by welding. A slit may be formed in the first and second bus bar frames (410, 420), and the electrode lead (111) may pass through the slit and be connected to the bus bar (510). The battery cells (110) can be electrically connected in series or parallel via the bus bar (510).

[0087] The terminal bus bar (520) can be electrically connected to the electrode lead (111), and a portion thereof can be exposed to the outside of the battery module (100). The battery module (100) can form an HV (High voltage) connection with another battery module or electrical equipment through the terminal bus bar (520). Here, the HV connection is a connection that serves as a power source to supply power requiring high voltage, and refers to a connection between battery cells or a connection between battery modules.

[0088] The module connector (530) may be responsible for transmitting voltage information of battery cells (110) or temperature information inside the battery module (100) to the outside. Accordingly, a portion of the module connector (530) may also be exposed to the outside of the battery module (100).

[0089] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the top plate (221) of the top cover assembly (220) of Fig. 10. Fig. 12 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of “B” of Fig. 11. Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing the top cover (222) of the top cover assembly (220) of Fig. 10. Fig. 14 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of “C” of Fig. 13.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 14, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the top cover assembly (220) may include a top plate (221) positioned on one side of the battery cells (110); and a top cover (222) covering one surface of the top plate (221).

[0091] For example, the top plate (221) may be welded to the bottom frame (210, see FIG. 4) using a metal material. On the other hand, the top cover (222) may include an FRB-silicone material or a MICA material. In order to induce the connecting portion (222C) connecting the rupture portion (222R) to break under a certain pressure, the top cover (222) may not be made of a metal material.

[0092] Even if welding joint between the top plate (221) and the top cover (222) is not possible, the top cover (222) can be fixed to the top plate (221) using flange bolts (not shown) and spacers (not shown). Fixing the top cover (222) using flange bolts and spacers can be useful in terms of materials of the top plate (221) and the top cover (222).

[0093] Referring again to FIGS. 10 to 14, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a protruding pin (600) may be formed in the top plate (221) and may protrude to one side through the top cover (222). That is, the protruding pin (600) formed in the top plate (221) may protrude toward one end through a slit (600b) formed in the top cover (222) disposed at one end of the top plate (221).

[0094] Alternatively, a protrusion (not shown) into which a protruding pin (600) can be inserted may be formed in the top cover (222). In this case, the protruding pin (600) formed in the top plate (221) may be coupled to the protruding portion of the top cover (222).

[0095] Fig. 15 is a plan view from above of a top plate (221) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 16 is a plan view from above of a top cover (222) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5 and 10 to 16, a venting portion (220V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be formed in a top plate (221) and include at least one venting hole (221VH) for gas discharge inside the module frame (200).

[0097] In addition, the venting portion (220V) may include a rupture portion (222R) formed in the top cover (222) and positioned to correspond to the venting hole (221VH) and having a structure that ruptures when a certain pressure is exceeded.

[0098] As described above, the venting part (220V) refers to a mechanism for discharging high-temperature venting gas and heat generated inside the battery module (100) to the outside of the battery module (100). The venting part (220V) according to the present embodiment may refer to a member that integrates a venting hole (221VH) and a rupture part (222R).

[0099] As described above, the module frame (200) may include a bottom frame (210) on which battery cells (110) are placed and a top cover assembly (220) that covers one side of the battery cells (110), and the venting portion (220V) may be formed in the top cover assembly (220). As described above, the top cover assembly (220) may include a top plate (221) located on one side of the battery cells (110) and a top cover (222) that covers one side of the top plate (221).

[0100] The venting portion (220V) may include a venting hole (221VH) formed in the top plate (221) and a rupture portion (222R) formed in the top cover (222) and positioned corresponding to the venting hole (221VH). The rupture portion (222R) may have a structure that ruptures when a certain pressure is exceeded.

[0101] The venting hole (221VH) may be a through-hole formed in the top plate (221). The rupture portion (222R) may cover the venting hole (221VH) on one side of the top plate (221).

[0102] Referring again to FIGS. 1, 2, and 10 to 16, an opening (222P) is formed in an area excluding a connecting portion (222C) of a rupture portion (222R) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and the rupture portion (222R) may be connected to a top cover (222) by a connecting portion (222C).

[0103] An opening (222P) may be formed in an area excluding the connecting portion (222C) from the periphery of the rupture portion (222R). The opening portion (222P) refers to a perforated portion of the top cover (222). The rupture portion (222R) according to the present embodiment may be connected to the top cover (222) by the connecting portion (222C). In other words, the rupture portion (222R) may be provided in the top cover (222) in such a way that the opening portion (222P) is formed in a perforated form in the top cover (222) excluding only the connecting portion (222C).

[0104] In addition, when viewed along a direction perpendicular to one surface of the top cover (222), the opening (222P) may be located on the outer periphery of the venting hole (221VH). Viewing along a direction perpendicular to one surface of the top cover (222) may correspond to viewing along the -z-axis direction on the xy plane, as in FIGS. 4, 15, and 16. In addition, FIGS. 14 and 16, etc., it is expressed that in one of the venting holes (221VH), the opening (222P) is provided outside the venting hole (221VH).

[0105] When looking at the venting portion (220V) from inside the battery module (100) through the above structure, the venting hole (221VH) is blocked by the rupture portion (222R), and the opening portion (222P) is covered by the top plate (221). In other words, since the venting hole (221VH) is formed in an area inside the opening portion (222P), when looking at the inside of the battery module (100), only the rupture portion (222R) is exposed through the venting hole (221VH), and the opening portion (222P) is not exposed.

[0106] Accordingly, in a normal state where no thermal event occurs, the venting portion (220V) does not discharge internal gas because the venting hole (221VH) is blocked by the rupture portion (222R). However, if a thermal event or thermal runaway phenomenon causes high-temperature venting gas and heat to be generated inside the battery module (100) and the internal pressure of the battery module (100) increases, the rupture portion (222R) may rupture. Specifically, if the increased internal pressure of the battery module (100) exceeds the limit strength of the connecting portion (222C), the connecting portion (222C) may break, causing the rupture portion (222R) to be separated from the top cover (222). Accordingly, the venting hole (221VH) is opened, and high-temperature venting gas and heat may be discharged to the outside of the battery module (100) through the venting hole (221VH). More specifically, high-temperature venting gas and heat can be discharged through the venting hole (221VH) into the venting space (VS) between the pack cover (1200) and the battery module (100). The high-temperature venting gas and heat flowing along the venting space (VS) can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1000) through a venting device (not shown) provided in the pack frame (1100) or the pack cover (1200).

[0107] FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 are cross-sectional views showing a venting part (220V', 220V") according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, as described above, the venting portion (220V', 220V") collectively refers to a mechanism for discharging high-temperature venting gas and heat generated inside the battery module to the outside of the battery module. The venting portion (220V') according to another embodiment of the present invention may be a portion that is thinner than an adjacent area in order to discharging high-temperature venting gas and heat. Specifically, the top cover assembly (220') of the module frame (200) may be in the form of a single plate, and the venting portion (220V') may be a portion of the top cover assembly (220') that is thinner than the surrounding area. When high-temperature venting gas and heat are generated and the internal pressure of the battery module increases, the venting portion (220V') having a relatively thin thickness may rupture, allowing the high-temperature venting gas and heat to be discharged.

[0109] Meanwhile, the venting portion (220V”) according to another embodiment of the present invention may be a portion having a groove (220G) formed along the circumference to discharge high-temperature venting gas and heat. Specifically, the top cover assembly (220”) of the module frame (200) may be in a single plate shape, and the venting portion (220V”) may be an inner portion of the groove (220G) formed in the top cover assembly (220”). When high-temperature venting gas and heat are generated and the internal pressure of the battery module increases, the groove (220G) may first rupture, opening the venting portion (220V”) to discharge the high-temperature venting gas and heat.

[0110] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a device including a battery pack (1000) is provided.

[0111] One or more battery modules according to the above-described embodiment can be mounted together with various control and protection systems such as a BMS (Battery Management System), a BDU (Battery Disconnect Unit), and a cooling system to form a battery pack (1000).

[0112] The battery module (100) or battery pack (1000) can be applied to various devices. Specifically, it can be applied to means of transportation such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles, but is not limited thereto, and can be applied to various devices that can use secondary batteries.

[0113] In this example, terms indicating directions such as front, back, left, right, up, and down are used, but 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.

[0114] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0115] Description of the symbol

[0116] 100: Battery module

[0117] 110: Battery cell

[0118] 120: Battery cell stack

[0119] 220: Top cover assembly

[0120] 221: Top Plate

[0121] 222: Top cover

[0122] 220V: Venting part

[0123] 600: Protruding pin

[0124] 1000: Battery pack

[0125] 1300: Fireproof sheet

Claims

1. Battery module; A pack frame in which the above battery module is stored and one side is open; A pack cover covering one open side of the pack frame; and including a fire-resistant sheet attached to one end of the above pack cover; The above battery module, A battery cell stack in which multiple battery cells are stacked; A venting portion formed on one side of the battery module and for venting gas discharge; and A battery pack comprising a protruding pin protruding toward the pack cover on one side of the battery module.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery pack in which the above protruding pin extends along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery pack in which the above protruding pin extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

4. In paragraph 1, The above protruding pin is a battery pack arranged between the above venting parts.

5. In paragraph 1, The above protruding pin is a battery pack that comes into contact with the above refractory sheet.

6. In paragraph 1, The battery module includes a module frame in which the battery cell stack is housed and has one side open; and a top cover assembly covering the open side of the module frame; The above protruding pin is a battery pack provided in the above top cover assembly.

7. In paragraph 6, The above top cover assembly, a top plate located on one side of the above battery cells; and A battery pack including a top cover covering one side of the top plate.

8. In paragraph 7, The above protruding pin is formed on the top plate and protrudes to one side through the top cover.

9. In paragraph 7, The above venting portion is a battery pack formed in the top plate and including at least one venting hole for gas discharge inside the module frame.

10. In paragraph 9, A battery pack including a rupture portion formed in the top cover and positioned to correspond to the venting hole and having a structure that ruptures when a certain pressure is exceeded.

11. In paragraph 10, An opening is formed in the area excluding the connecting portion of the perimeter of the above-mentioned rupture portion, A battery pack in which the above-mentioned rupture portion is connected to the top cover by the above-mentioned connecting portion.

12. A device including a battery pack according to paragraph 1.

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