Battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

A battery module according to the present invention may comprise: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a module case accommodating the cell assembly and having gas venting holes provided in one side thereof such that gas generated in the battery cells is discharged to the outside; a module terminal electrically connected to the cell assembly and exposed on the other side of the module case; a fireproof cover member covering the upper end of the cell assembly to suppress upward ejection of the gas from the battery cells; and a block member partitioning a space between the cell assembly and the one side of the module case such that the gas is guided toward the gas venting holes.

Description

Battery modules, battery packs containing the same, and vehicles

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module, and more particularly, to a battery module for discharging gas or flame in a specific direction when battery cells are ignited, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the same.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0079828, filed on June 19, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated by reference into this application.

[0003] Secondary batteries, which boast high electrical properties such as high energy density and easy applicability across a wide range of product categories, are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electrical power sources. These batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for environmental friendliness and energy efficiency, not only because they can dramatically reduce fossil fuel use, but also because they produce no byproducts from energy use.

[0004] Commonly used secondary batteries today include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Furthermore, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery module or battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery module or battery pack can vary depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] Typically, secondary batteries have an operating voltage of approximately 2.5 V to 4.5 V. Therefore, for example, in the case of electric vehicles, a battery module is formed by connecting multiple secondary batteries in series and / or parallel, and a battery pack is formed by connecting multiple battery modules in series and / or parallel, which are then used as an energy source.

[0006] Meanwhile, recent battery packs feature a high energy density due to the compact storage of numerous battery modules within a limited internal space. If a fire occurs within one of these modules, gas and flames could spread to the surrounding area, potentially triggering a chain reaction of fires in adjacent battery modules. Therefore, the industry is actively researching ways to delay or minimize the spread of thermal energy between battery modules within a battery pack, recognizing this as a critical issue. For example, if the direction of gas or flame emitted from a battery module in the event of a fire can be controlled, it would be easier to design a battery pack that minimizes the impact of gas or flames on battery modules. Therefore, there is a need to develop a battery module that can direct gas or flames in a specific direction and safely discharge them when an internal fire occurs.

[0007] The present invention was created against the background described above, and its primary purpose is to provide a battery module having a directional vent structure that can stably discharge gas or flames in a specific direction when a battery cell ignites.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery module.

[0009] The technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery module may include: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a module case accommodating the cell assembly and having a gas venting hole formed on one side thereof to allow gas generated from the battery cells to be discharged to the outside; a module terminal electrically connected to the cell assembly and exposed on the other side of the module case; a fire-resistant cover member covering an upper end of the cell assembly to suppress upward emission of the gas from the battery cells; and a block member dividing a space between the cell assembly and one side of the module case to guide the gas toward the gas venting hole.

[0011] The above-mentioned refractory cover member and the above-mentioned block member can be formed integrally.

[0012] The above block member may be configured to extend in a bend from one end of the above fireproof cover member.

[0013] The above-mentioned refractory cover member may be provided with a compressible material to fill the space between the upper part of the cell assembly and the upper surface of the module case.

[0014] It may include a bus bar connected to an electrode lead provided for each of the plurality of battery cells; and a bus bar frame provided to support the bus bar and cover a front or rear portion of the cell assembly.

[0015] The busbar frame covering the rear portion of the above cell assembly may include a plurality of openings facing one side portion of the module case and through which the gas can pass.

[0016] The block member may be provided on the outside of the busbar frame and configured to block gas passing through the hole from moving along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked in the space between the busbar frame and one side of the module case.

[0017] The above block member may be arranged in multiple pieces spaced apart from each other along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

[0018] The above block member may be configured to extend in the height direction of the busbar frame.

[0019] The above block member may be provided to be fitted into a block joint portion protruding from the busbar frame.

[0020] A vent block is included that is arranged in a space between the cell assembly and the bus bar frame, the battery cell is a pouch-type battery cell, and the vent block can be provided on at least one side of a cell terrace from which an electrode lead is drawn out from the battery cell.

[0021] The above vent block may be configured to pressurize the side of the cell terrace.

[0022] The above vent block may be configured such that a plurality of the vent block blocks are respectively arranged at the front and rear portions of the cell assembly, and the cell terraces of the plurality of battery cells located at the front portion of the cell assembly are all pressed by the vent block blocks, and some of the cell terraces of the plurality of battery cells located at the rear portion of the cell assembly are pressed by the vent block blocks.

[0023] According to another aspect of the present invention, a battery pack including the above-described battery module can be provided.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle including the above-described battery pack can be provided.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, a battery module having a directional vent structure that can stably discharge gas or flame in a specific direction when a battery cell ignites can be provided.

[0026] According to another aspect of the present invention, the safety of the battery module can be secured by allowing gases or flames generated in the battery cell to be discharged to the rear side of the battery module where the module terminal is not provided.

[0027] According to another aspect of the present invention, heat transfer at the top of the battery cells can be suppressed by a fire-resistant cover member disposed in the space between the top of the battery cells and the upper surface of the module case.

[0028] According to another aspect of the present invention, a gas venting path is partitioned by a block member positioned on the inside of one side of a module case having a gas venting hole. In this case, the lateral movement of gas is blocked by the block member and restricted, while the forward and backward movement of gas can be promoted. Accordingly, directional gas venting is smoothly achieved, and heat trapped within the battery module can be significantly reduced.

[0029] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of Figure 2.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a side view of a battery cell included in the battery module of FIG. 2.

[0034] Fig. 5 is a rear side cross-sectional view of the battery module according to 'Ⅰ-Ⅰ' of Fig. 2.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a front view of a rear end cover of a module case according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7 is a front view of a rear side bus bar frame according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIGS. 8 to 10 are process diagrams showing the process before and after assembling the fireproof cover member and block member of the battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 11 is a drawing of the rear end cover of Figure 2, viewed from the front, showing the rear of the battery module.

[0039] Fig. 12 is a cutaway perspective view of the battery module illustrated in Fig. 10.

[0040] Figure 13 is a cutaway perspective view of the battery module with the rear end cover attached in Figure 12.

[0041] Figure 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of Figure 13.

[0042] Fig. 15 is a rear side internal perspective view of a battery module to which a vent blocking member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0043] Fig. 16 is a front side internal perspective view of a battery module to which a vent blocking member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0044] Fig. 17 is a front side cross-sectional view of a battery module to which a vent blocking member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0045] FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 19 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0048] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0049] Furthermore, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar components will be omitted, and the differences will be described.

[0050] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of FIG. 2, FIG. 4 is a side view of a battery cell included in the battery module of FIG. 2, and FIG. 5 is a rear side cross-sectional view of the battery module taken along line I-I' of FIG. 2.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a cell assembly (100), a module terminal (200), a module case (300), a fire-resistant cover member (400), and a block member (500).

[0052] The battery module (10) according to the present invention is configured to enable directional venting of gas or flame generated in the battery cell (110) in a specific direction when a thermal event occurs. For example, in the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, when an internal fire occurs, the front side of the battery module (10) is sealed as shown in FIG. 1, and a gas venting hole (H1) is provided on the rear side of the battery module (10) as shown in FIG. 2, so that gas or flame is discharged to the rear side of the battery module (10).

[0053] As will be described later, when mounting a plurality of battery modules (10) in a pack case (2), there are many examples in which the front side of the battery module (10) where the module terminal (200) is located is arranged toward the center of the pack case (2) in order to simplify the electrical connection between the battery modules (10). In this case, if gas or flame is discharged toward the front side of the battery module (10) when a certain battery module (10) ignites, heat may accumulate in the center of the pack case, increasing the risk of a chain reaction of fire among the battery modules (10). In addition, if gas or flame is discharged toward the front side of the battery module (10), it may not be easy to secure a gas discharge path within the battery pack.

[0054] Accordingly, the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured so that gas or flames are discharged toward the rear side of the battery module (10) opposite to the front side of the battery module (10) where the module terminal (200) is located. Hereinafter, the main configuration of the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 3, the cell assembly (100) may mean an assembly of a plurality of battery cells (110). Here, the battery cell (110) may be a pouch-type battery cell (110).

[0056] The above pouch-type battery cell (110) may include an electrode assembly and a pouch case (111) that accommodates the electrode assembly. The pouch case (111) may include a storage portion (111a) and a sealing portion. The storage portion (111a) is a portion where the electrode assembly is accommodated, and the sealing portion refers to a portion that is heat-sealed and sealed on the outer surface of the storage portion (111a).

[0057] For example, as illustrated in Fig. 4, sealing portions may be provided on three of the four sides of the pouch case (111). The sealing portions may include two cell terraces (111b) and one side edge portion (111c).

[0058] Here, the two cell terraces (111b) refer to the front sealing portion and the rear sealing portion of the pouch case. The electrode lead (112) may be configured such that one end is connected to the electrode assembly inside the pouch case (111) and is extended outside the cell terrace (111b).

[0059] The above side edge portion (111c) refers to the upper sealing portion in the pouch case (111b) of FIG. 4. The side edge portion (111c) may be folded at least once. A sealing tape (113) may be attached to the side edge portion (111c). The sealing tape (113) may be attached to the side edge portion (111c) in a form that wraps around the side edge portion (111c) in the thickness direction of the battery cell (110). In addition, the sealing tape (113) may be configured to extend long along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110). The length of the sealing tape (113) may be configured to extend as long as the length of the battery cell (110). The sealing tape (113) may be configured to cover the entire side edge portion (111c) of the battery cell (110) in the longitudinal direction.

[0060] In this case, when gas is generated inside the battery cell (110) and the internal pressure rises, there is less concern that the side edge portion (111c) will open, and the gas can be prevented from being discharged in the upper direction of the battery cell (110).

[0061] A plurality of pouch-shaped battery cells (110) can be stacked in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) with the side without the sealing portion facing downward and the wide surface facing each other. The lower surface of the pouch case (111) without the sealing portion can be in contact with the bottom surface of the module case (300). The heat of the battery cells (110) can be dissipated to the module case through heat exchange between the lower surface of the pouch case (111) and the bottom surface of the module case (300). At this time, a thermally conductive resin (not shown) can be disposed between the lower surface of the pouch case (111) and the bottom surface of the module case (300). The thermally conductive resin can be a material having adhesiveness and high thermal conductivity.

[0062] Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the battery cell (110), and various battery cells (110) known at the time of filing of the present invention may be employed. In the present embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery is employed as the battery cell (110) as shown in the drawing, but a cylindrical or square secondary battery may also be employed as the battery cell (110).

[0063] The cell stack (100) according to the present embodiment may include a barrier member (120). The barrier member (120) may be provided in the form of a plate having a thickness thinner than the battery cell (110). For example, the barrier member (120) may be provided in the form of a pad having excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance and compressibility. Materials such as silicone or aerogel may be employed as the material for the barrier member (120).

[0064] The above barrier member (120) may be arranged in multiple numbers with a predetermined number of battery cells (110) interposed therebetween along the direction in which the battery cells (110) are arranged. In particular, the barrier member (120) may be configured to partition the battery cells (110) into a predetermined number.

[0065] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when the battery cell (110) experiences thermal runaway, the propagation of flame or heat can be blocked by the barrier member (120). In addition, the battery member can contribute to suppressing structural deformation of the module case (300) by absorbing the expansion force of the battery cell (110) when the battery cell (110) is swelling.

[0066] The above module terminal (200) may be configured to be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (110). In addition, the module terminal (200) may be configured to be exposed on the other side of the module case (300). For example, the module terminal may be configured such that one side is connected to the electrode lead (112) of the battery cell (110) inside the module case (300) and the other side is exposed to the outside of the front end cover (320) to be described later, thereby functioning as a positive terminal or a negative terminal of the battery module (10).

[0067] The above module case (300) may be configured to accommodate a cell assembly (100). Specifically, the module case (300) may have an internal space capable of accommodating the cell assembly (100) and may be made of a material having excellent mechanical strength and heat resistance so as to physically or chemically protect the cell assembly (100) accommodated in the internal space.

[0068] In particular, the module case (300) may be provided with a gas venting hole (H1) on one side so that gas or flame generated from the battery cell (110) can be discharged to the outside.

[0069] In this embodiment, one side of the module case (300) may refer to the rear side of the module case (300) and the other side of the module case (300) may refer to the front side of the module case (300). That is, the module terminal (200) and the gas venting hole (H1) described above may be provided on opposite sides. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the module terminal (200) may be provided on the front side of the module case (300) and the gas venting hole (H1) may be provided on the rear side of the module case (300).

[0070] In this case, when thermal runaway of the battery module (10) occurs, the gas or flame generated inside the battery module (10) can be discharged to the rear side of the module case (300). At this time, it is preferable to seal the remaining portion of the module case (300) except for the gas venting hole.

[0071] More specifically, referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the module case (300) may include a case body (310), a front end cover (320), and a rear end cover (330).

[0072] The case body (310) may include a U-frame (311) and a top plate (312). The U-frame (311) may include a pair of side plates covering the left and right sides of the cell assembly (100) and a base plate covering the lower side of the cell assembly (100). The pair of side plates and the base plate may be configured as an integral body.

[0073] The top plate (312) may be configured to cover the upper surface of the cell assembly (100). This top plate (312) may be joined to the U-frame (311) by welding. This case body (310) may be formed in a square tubular shape with open front and back. As an alternative to the present embodiment, a module case (300) in the form of a monoframe in which the U-frame (311) and the top plate (312) are integrally formed may be employed.

[0074] The front end cover (320) and the rear end cover (330) can be respectively coupled to the open front and rear of the case body (310). The front end cover (320) and the rear end cover (330) can be coupled to the case body (310) by welding or a snap-fit ​​structure.

[0075] The front end cover (320) has a slit for allowing the module terminal (200) to be drawn out from the inside of the module case to the outside. The periphery of the slit through which the module terminal (200) passes may be sealed. The rear end cover (330) has a plurality of gas venting holes (H1). In addition, the front end cover (320) and the rear end cover (330) may have inner surfaces made of an insulating material and outer surfaces made of a metal material.

[0076] FIG. 6 is a front view of a rear end cover of a module case according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 6, a plurality of gas venting holes (H1) may be provided in the rear end cover (330). The gas venting holes (H1) may be arranged in at least one direction. The gas venting holes (H1) may be arranged along a plurality of rows. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the gas venting holes (H1) are arranged in a row along the height direction of the rear end cover (330), and the plurality of gas venting holes (H1) arranged in a row may be arranged in a plurality of rows along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110), i.e., the width direction of the rear end cover (330). These plurality of gas venting holes (H1) may be provided at regular intervals from each other.

[0078] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs in any of the battery cells (110), the venting gas or flame can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the module case (300) through the gas venting holes (H1).

[0079] Figure 7 is a front view of a rear side bus bar frame according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 7 together with FIG. 3, the battery module (10) of the present invention may further include a busbar frame (600A, 600B). The busbar frame (600A, 600B) may be provided inside the module case (300) and configured to cover the front or rear portion of the cell assembly (100). The busbar frame (600A, 600B) supports the busbars (700) connected to the electrode leads (112) provided in each of the plurality of battery cells (110). The busbar frame (600A, 600B) may be formed of a material having electrical insulation, such as a plastic material.

[0081] The above busbar frame (600A, 600B) may include a front side busbar frame (600A) and a rear side busbar frame (600B).

[0082] In particular, as illustrated in Fig. 7, the rear side bus bar frame (600B) is provided with a through hole (H2), and the front side bus bar frame (600A) is not provided with a through hole (H2). With this implementation configuration, venting gas or flames, etc. can be more smoothly guided to be discharged in one direction, particularly toward the rear of the module case (300).

[0083] The above-mentioned opening (H2) may be configured to communicate with the gas venting hole (H1). The above-mentioned opening (H2) may be provided to at least partially face the gas venting hole (H1). The gas venting hole (H1) and the opening (H2) may be arranged along a substantially straight line.

[0084] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flames, etc. can be discharged to the outside in a substantially straight line through the gas venting hole (H1) and the through hole (H2). As a result, venting gas or flames, etc. can be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) more quickly.

[0085] The above busbar frame (600A, 600B) may be provided with a lead slot (610). The lead slot (610) may be provided so that at least a portion of the electrode leads (112) of a plurality of battery cells (110) may pass through it. The lead slot (610) may be provided so that the plurality of electrode leads (112) may pass through it in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction (front-back direction).

[0086] A plurality of lead slots (610) may be provided so as to be spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cells (110). At this time, a plurality of electrode leads (112) passing through the lead slots (610) may be bent and attached to a bus bar (700). A plurality of battery cells (110) whose electrode leads (112) are in contact with each other on the bus bar (700) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0087] The above bus bar (700) may be provided between a plurality of lead slots (610). Thus, the bus bar (700) may be configured to be in direct contact with the electrode leads (112) passing through the lead slots (610). Specifically, the electrode leads (112) of the battery cells (110) pass through the lead slots (510) of the bus bar frame (600A, 600B) and are drawn outward from the bus bar frame (600A, 600B), and the portion drawn out in this manner may be attached to the surface of the bus bar (700) by welding or the like.

[0088] The bus bar (700) may be made of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc. In addition, the bus bar (700) may be made in the shape of a bar extending in the height direction.

[0089] The busbar (700) may be attached to the outer surface of the busbar frame (600A, 600B). For this purpose, the busbar frame (600A, 600B) may include a busbar connecting portion (520). In addition, the busbar (700) may be positioned on the inner side of the electrode lead (112). That is, the busbar (700) may be positioned between the bent electrode lead (112) and the busbar frame (600A, 600B).

[0090] The above busbar frame (600A, 600B) may include a plurality of busbar connecting portions (620). The busbars (700) may be configured to be mounted one by one to the busbar connecting portion (620).

[0091] Referring back to Fig. 7, a plurality of through holes (H2) may be provided in the rear-side bus bar frame (600B). The plurality of through holes (H2) may be arranged along at least one direction. For example, the plurality of through holes (H2) may be arranged in a row along the height direction of the rear-side bus bar frame (600B). The through holes (H2) may be provided in a form that extends long along the height direction of the bus bar frame (600B). At this time, the through holes (H2) may be configured in a rib shape when the rear-side bus bar frame (600B) is viewed from the front.

[0092] Additionally, the plurality of through holes (H2) may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110). The through holes (H2) may be provided on the left and right sides of the bus bar joint (620). In this case, the through holes (H2) may be located on both sides of each bus bar (700).

[0093] In addition, some of the plurality of holes (H2) may be configured to be integrated with the lead slot (610). That is, the holes (H2) may be configured to allow at least some of the electrode leads (112) of the plurality of battery cells (110) to pass through them.

[0094] Meanwhile, a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a fireproof cover member (400) and a block member (500) to suppress thermal runaway transfer of battery cells and to more smoothly guide gas, etc. to the rear side of the module case.

[0095] The above-mentioned fire-resistant cover member (400) covers the upper portion of the cell assembly (100) and is responsible for suppressing upward emission of gas generated from the battery cell (110). This fire-resistant cover member (400) may be made of a material with excellent fire resistance. For example, the fire-resistant cover member (400) may be implemented with a flame-retardant urethane foam, polyurethane foam, or silicone foam pad.

[0096] The above-described fire-resistant cover member (400) may preferably be formed of a compressible material so as to completely fill the space between the upper end of the cell assembly (100) and the upper surface of the module case (300). For example, the fire-resistant cover member (400) may be configured to be pressed toward the upper end of the cell assembly (100) by the aforementioned top plate (312) so as to fill the space between the upper end of the cell assembly (100) and the top plate (312).

[0097] According to this implementation configuration, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell, upward emission of gas from the battery cell can be suppressed. In addition, as shown in FIG. 11, since there is no empty space between the top plate (312) of the module case (300) and the upper end of the cell assembly (100), thermal energy transmission between battery cells through the upper end of the cell assembly (100) can be prevented. In detail, a gap may exist between the upper end of the cell assembly (100) and the upper surface of the module case (300) due to a difference in surface roughness. This gap may become a passage for gas or flame to move within the module case (300). When the gas or flame flows along the gap, thermal energy transmission between battery cells (110) may be accelerated. In addition, the presence of the gap may also impede directional venting toward the rear of the module case (300). However, according to the refractory cover member (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the gap can be eliminated, thereby suppressing the transmission of thermal energy through the upper portion of the cell assembly (100). In addition, the refractory cover member (400) can also advantageously function to prevent upward discharge of gas generated in the battery cell and directional venting of the gas toward the rear of the module case (300).

[0098] The above block member (500) may be configured to guide gas or flame to a gas venting hole (H1). The block member (500) may be provided inside the module case (300), as shown in FIG. 5. Specifically, the block member (500) may be provided between one side of the module case (300) having the gas venting hole (H1) and the cell assembly (100). In addition, the block member (500) may be configured to partition a space formed between the module case (300) and the cell assembly (100) to restrict lateral movement of gas or the like flowing in the space and guide it toward the gas venting hole (H1).

[0099] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (110) within a battery module (10), venting gas or the like can be discharged only in one target direction, for example, in the direction in which the gas venting hole (H1) is formed, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 5. That is, since the surrounding area except for the gas venting hole (H1) is blocked based on the block member (500), directional venting of the venting gas can be more effectively induced toward the gas venting hole (H1).

[0100] Thus, according to the present embodiment, the venting gas can be quickly guided to the gas venting hole (H1) and discharged to the outside. That is, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, heat accumulation within the battery module (10) can be prevented or suppressed. Thus, the safety and reliability of the battery module (10) can be guaranteed.

[0101] The above block member (500) may be configured to divide a plurality of spaces through which gas or the like can flow. The block member (500) may be configured to suppress the venting gas from moving to an adjacent venting space.

[0102] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since a space in which gas or the like can flow is defined, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (110), venting gas or flame or the like is prevented from being transferred to an adjacent battery cell (110), so that thermal runaway propagation between battery cells (110) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0103] This block member (500) may include an elastic material such as silicone. Accordingly, the block member (500) may be compressed by components within the battery module (10). According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, the space through which gas or the like may flow can be more reliably sealed, so that directional venting toward the gas vent hole (H1) can be more effectively induced. In addition, the block member (500) may have at least one of flame retardancy and fire resistance.

[0104] The above fireproof cover member (400) and the above block member (500) can be configured as an integral body.

[0105] The above block member (500) may be provided on one end of the fire-resistant cover member (400). Here, the one end of the fire-resistant cover member (400) refers to the side facing the rear of the module case (300). The assembly structure of the fire-resistant cover member (400) and the block member (500) will be briefly examined with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11 as follows.

[0106] As shown in Fig. 8, the cell assembly (100) and the busbar frame (600A, 600B) can be assembled and stored in the U-frame (311) described above. Then, as shown in Fig. 9, the fire-resistant cover member (400) is placed on the upper side of the cell assembly (100). At this time, the block member (500) can be provided in a state parallel to the fire-resistant cover member (400).

[0107] Next, as shown in Fig. 10, the block member (500) is folded and assembled to the rear busbar frame (600B). At this time, the block member (500) may be in a form that is bent and extended from one end of the fire-resistant cover member (400). Next, the fire-resistant cover member (400) is pressed by the top plate (312) described above, and both edges of the top plate (312) and the upper end of the U-frame (311) are welded to secure. Next, the rear end cover (630) is assembled to the case body (310). Accordingly, the block member (500) can be positioned in the space between the rear busbar frame (600B) and the rear end cover (330).

[0108] The block member (500) may be configured to suppress gas from moving along the stacking direction (X direction) of the battery cells (110) in the space between the rear side bus bar frame (600B) and the rear end cover (330). That is, the block member (500) may be provided on the outside of the rear side bus bar frame (600B) and may be arranged to block lateral movement of gas passing through the through hole (H2) of the rear side bus bar (600B).

[0109] According to this implementation configuration, since the movement of venting gas and the like along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110) can be suppressed by the block member (500), heat can be suppressed or prevented from being transmitted between the battery cells (110). In addition, since the block member (500) can guide the venting gas and the like toward the gas venting hole (H1), directional venting of the venting gas and the like can be more reliably induced.

[0110] More specifically, the block member (500) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple block members (500) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110), i.e., the left-right direction of the rear-side bus bar frame (600B). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, the block member (500) may be provided between the bus bars (700) and the electrode leads (112) connected thereto. In other words, the block member (500) may be arranged between the bus bars without blocking the through hole (H2).

[0111] In addition, a plurality of block members (500) may be positioned so as not to obstruct the gas venting holes (H1) of the rear end cover (330) and may be spaced apart from each other in the left and right directions at a predetermined interval. That is, the block members (500) may be positioned at an offset position from the gas venting holes (H1).

[0112] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (110), venting gas or flame, etc., can be restricted from moving laterally by the block member (500) in the space between the rear busbar frame (600B) and the rear end cover (330). As a result, the gas and flame, etc., can be guided and discharged to the rear side of the module case (300) through the gas venting hole (H1) adjacent to the battery cell (110) in which the event occurred. As a result, the venting gas, etc. of the battery cell (110) in which the thermal event occurred can be suppressed or prevented from moving to other battery cells (110) and causing heat to spread.

[0113] In addition, the block member (500) may be configured to extend in the height direction of the rear side bus bar frame (600B). That is, the height of the block member (500) may be configured to correspond to the height of the rear side bus bar frame (600B).

[0114] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the block member (500) can more reliably separate the space along the height direction of the rear-side busbar frame (600B). This makes it possible to more reliably prevent venting gas and the like from moving to another space where another adjacent battery cell (110) is located.

[0115] In addition, the block member (500) may include a material having elasticity. In addition, the block member (500) may include a material having high heat resistance. In addition, the block member (500) may include a material having high flame resistance. In addition, the block member (500) may include a material having electrical insulation properties. For example, the block member (500) may include a silicone material.

[0116] Accordingly, the block member (500) can be configured to be pressed in the front-back direction by the rear side bus bar frame (600B) and the rear end cover (330). In this case, the block member (500) can be closely attached to the rear side bus bar frame (600B) and the rear end cover (330), thereby more reliably preventing venting gas or flames from leaking through the gap.

[0117] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the block member (500) is fixed by the rear side bus bar frame (600B) and the rear end cover (330), bending deformation of the block member (500) can be suppressed. Accordingly, even if a thermal event occurs, the possibility of high temperature and high pressure venting gas or flames being transferred to another space while pushing out the block member (500) can be reduced.

[0118] Meanwhile, the block member (500) may be configured so that at least a portion of the rear side bus bar frame (600B) is inserted therein.

[0119] Specifically, referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, the rear side busbar frame (600B) may further include a block coupling portion (630). The number of block coupling portions (630) may correspond to the number of block members (500). The block coupling portion (630) may be configured such that at least a portion of the outer surface of the rear side busbar frame (600B) protrudes outward. The block coupling portion (630) may protrude further outward than the outer surface of the busbar coupling portion (620). The block coupling portion (630) may be provided between adjacent through holes (H2).

[0120] The block member (600) can be configured to be fitted into the block joint (630).

[0121] For example, the block member (500) may have an insertion groove (511) on the rear surface. The insertion groove (511) may be provided in the form of a groove formed by at least a portion of the block member (500) being sunken. By fitting the block coupling portion (630) into the insertion hole (511), the block member (500) may be fixed to the rear bus bar frame (600B).

[0122] According to this embodiment of the present invention, the adhesion and fixation of the block member (500) to the rear side busbar frame (600B) can be stably secured. Accordingly, the space between the rear side busbar frame (600B) and the rear end cover (330) can be more reliably and stably partitioned by the block member (500), and lateral movement of gas or flame in the space can be prevented.

[0123] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 17, a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a vent block (800).

[0124] The above vent block (800) may be provided in a space between the cell assembly (100) and the bus bar frame (600A, 600B). The vent block (800) may be configured to induce venting gas or flames, etc., to be discharged in one direction, i.e., toward the rear side of the battery module (10). In particular, the vent block (800) may be configured to suppress venting gas or flames, etc., from being discharged in a direction other than the rear side, particularly toward the front side.

[0125] In this embodiment, the vent block (800) is provided on both the front and rear sides of the cell assembly (100), but may be omitted on the rear side of the cell assembly (100) and provided only on the front side of the cell assembly (100).

[0126] Specifically, the vent block (800) may be arranged on the front and / or rear side of the storage portion (111a) of the battery cell (110). In other words, due to the difference in thickness of the cell terrace (111b) compared to the storage portion (111a) of the battery cell (110), an empty space exists around the cell terrace (111b), and the vent block (800) may be interposed in these empty spaces to fill the empty space. In addition, the vent block (800) may be configured to pressurize the side surface of the cell terrace (111b) of the pouch case (111).

[0127] In addition, the vent block (800) may be configured to extend along the height direction of the battery cell (110). For example, the vent block (800) may be configured to extend as much as the height of the storage portion (111a) of the battery cell (110).

[0128] The above-described vent block (800) may include an elastic material. The above-described vent block (800) may include a material with high heat resistance. In addition, the above-described vent block (800) may include a material with high flame resistance. In addition, the above-described vent block (800) may include a material with electrical insulation properties. For example, the above-described vent block (800) may include a silicone material.

[0129] The above vent-stop block (800) may be provided in multiple units. The multiple vent-stop blocks (800) may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110), i.e., the left-right direction. The vent-stop block (800) may be provided between the battery cells (110). The vent-stop block (800) may be provided on at least one side of the cell terrace (111b). That is, at least one side of the vent-stop block (800) may be configured to be in contact with the cell terrace (111b). In other words, the vent-stop block (800) may be configured to be in contact with the front and / or rear sides of the storage portion (111a) and at the same time be in contact with the cell terrace (111b). According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, the vent-stop block (800) may fix the cell terrace (111b).

[0130] The above-described vent block (800) may be provided on both sides of the barrier member (120). The above-described vent block (800) may be configured to compress the barrier member (120) from both sides. That is, the vent block (800) may compress the barrier member (120) in the left-right direction. As a result, the position of the barrier member (120) may be fixed. In addition, the vent block (800) may prevent the barrier member (120) from being bent or deformed.

[0131] The above-mentioned vent block (800) may be provided to face the inner surface of the bus bar frame (600A, 600B). In this case, even if the bus bar frame (600A, 600B) moves toward the cell assembly (100) due to external impact, etc., the vent block (800) absorbs the impact, thereby preventing damage to the battery cells (100).

[0132] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 15, some of the cell terraces (111b) of the plurality of battery cells (110) located at the rear of the cell assembly (100) may be configured to be pressed by the vent block (800), and as illustrated in FIGS. 16 to 17, all of the cell terraces (111b) of the plurality of battery cells located at the front of the cell assembly (100) may be configured to be pressed by the vent block (800).

[0133] That is, on the front side of the battery module (10), the vent block (800) may be provided between each of the cell terraces (111b) of the battery cells (110) to provide a force for pressing the cell terraces (111b). In other words, the cell terraces (111b) located on the front side of the cell assembly (100) may be pressed in the left-right direction by the vent block (800). However, the cell terraces (111b) located on the rear side of the cell assembly (100) may be configured not to be completely pressed in the left-right direction by the vent block (800).

[0134] In this case, when the internal pressure of the battery cell (110) increases, the rear cell terrace (111b) may be opened before the front cell terrace (111b). As a result, gas discharge through the front cell terrace (111b) is suppressed and gas may be discharged through the rear cell terrace (111b) of the battery cell (110).

[0135] In this way, according to the above-described embodiments of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (110), gas or flame can be emitted toward the rear of the cell assembly (100). In addition, heat accumulation or propagation within the battery module (10) due to gas or flame can be minimized, and the gas or flame can be smoothly discharged toward the rear of the battery module (10).

[0136] FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 18, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. The battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include a pack case (2) for accommodating a BMS (Battery Management System), a current sensor, a fuse, and the like for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules (10), and the above-described components.

[0138] Referring to Fig. 18, a plurality of battery modules (10) may be arranged so that the front side equipped with the module terminals (200) faces the inside of the pack case (2). And the rear side of the battery module (10) where the gas venting hole (H1) is located may be arranged so that it faces the outside of the pack case (2).

[0139] In this case, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (110) inside the battery module (10), directional venting of venting gas or flames, etc., is performed toward the rear side of the battery module (10), thereby preventing heat from being concentrated inside the pack case (2). In addition, the venting gas or flames, etc. discharged toward the rear side of the battery module (10) are adjacent to the outer wall of the pack case (2), making it easier to discharge them to the outside of the battery pack (1). For reference, although not shown, a gas exhaust port may be provided on the outer wall of the pack case (2).

[0140] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since venting gas or flames, etc. are minimized from being directed toward the module terminal (200), heat transmission to other adjacent battery modules (10) can be suppressed or prevented. Accordingly, events resulting from thermal runaway of a battery pack (1) including a plurality of battery modules (10), such as fire or explosion, can be prevented or delayed.

[0141] FIG. 19 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 19, a vehicle (V) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention or battery modules (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (V) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (V) includes a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheel vehicle. The vehicle (V) operates by receiving power from a battery pack (1) or a battery module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] As described above, although the present invention has been described by limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and variations are possible by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the patent claims to be described below.

[0144] Meanwhile, when terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used in this specification, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that these terms are only for the convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the position of the target object or the position of the observer.

Claims

1. A cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells; A module case that accommodates the cell assembly and has a gas venting hole provided on one side to allow gas generated from the battery cell to be discharged to the outside; A module terminal electrically connected to the cell assembly and exposed on the other side of the module case; A fireproof cover member covering the upper part of the cell assembly to suppress upward emission of the gas from the battery cell; and A battery module characterized by including a block member that divides a space between the cell assembly and one side of the module case so that the gas is guided toward the gas venting hole.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned fireproof cover member and the above-mentioned block member are formed integrally.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the above block member is bent and extended from one end of the above fireproof cover member.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned fireproof cover member is made of a compressible material to fill the space between the upper part of the cell assembly and the upper surface of the module case.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized by including a bus bar connected to an electrode lead provided for each of the plurality of battery cells; and a bus bar frame provided to support the bus bar and cover a front or rear portion of the cell assembly.

6. In paragraph 5, A battery module characterized in that the busbar frame covering the rear portion of the cell assembly is opposite to one side portion of the module case and includes a plurality of holes through which the gas can pass.

7. In paragraph 6, The above block member is, A battery module characterized in that it is provided on the outside of the busbar frame and configured to block gas passing through the hole from moving along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked in the space between the busbar frame and one side of the module case.

8. In paragraph 6, A battery module characterized in that the above block member is arranged in multiple pieces spaced apart from each other along the direction in which the battery cells are stacked.

9. In paragraph 6, A battery module characterized in that the block member is configured to extend in the height direction of the busbar frame.

10. In paragraph 6, A battery module characterized in that the block member is provided to be fitted into a block joint formed protruding from the busbar frame.

11. In paragraph 6, A vent block is disposed in a space between the cell assembly and the busbar frame, and the battery cell is a pouch-type battery cell. A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned vent block is provided on at least one side of a cell terrace from which an electrode lead is drawn out from the battery cell.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned vent block is configured to pressurize the side surface of the cell terrace.

13. In paragraph 11, The above vent block is, A plurality of them are arranged in the front and rear parts of the above cell assembly, respectively. A battery module characterized in that all of the cell terraces of the plurality of battery cells located at the front of the cell assembly are pressed by the vent block, and some of the cell terraces of the plurality of battery cells located at the rear of the cell assembly are pressed by the vent block.

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

15. A vehicle characterized by including a battery pack according to Article 14.

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