Battery module, battery pack and vehicle comprising same

Abstract

The present invention comprises: a cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells; and a module case, accommodating the cell assembly, comprising a side cover assembly covering one side surface of the cell assembly, wherein the side cover assembly comprises a first plate comprising at least one first venting hole for discharging venting gas, the venting gas being discharged in a first direction perpendicular to the first plate and bent in a second direction approximately parallel thereto.

Description

Battery modules, battery packs containing the same, and vehicles

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

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0078461, filed on June 17, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated by reference into this application.

[0003]

[0004] Secondary batteries, with their high applicability across product categories and electrical properties such as high energy density, 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.

[0005] 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 pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery module or pack can vary depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] When connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel to form a battery pack, it's common to first construct a battery module containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery module to add other components to form a battery pack or battery rack. Recently, battery packs in the cell-to-pack form, where multiple battery cells are housed directly in a pack housing or other device, without modularization, have also been manufactured.

[0007] However, when multiple battery modules are included within a battery pack, they can be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between the modules. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery module, this thermal runaway can propagate to other battery modules. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules is not adequately controlled, an event occurring in a specific battery module can trigger a chain reaction across multiple battery modules, potentially resulting in major problems such as explosions or fires.

[0008] In cases where venting holes are formed in the case covering the upper direction, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell, high-temperature gases or flames that have moved upward may collide with the pack cover covering the upper side and then flow back into the battery module or into adjacent battery modules, thereby propagating and accelerating thermal runaway. In addition, discharges that move upwards in the battery module may spread in random directions, increasing the possibility of heat being transferred to adjacent battery modules.

[0009] Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs in a battery cell within a battery module, there is a need to develop a structure that can suppress and delay heat propagation so as to prevent gas or flames from being transferred to other cells within the battery module or to adjacent battery modules, thereby causing thermal runaway.

[0010] In addition, when a thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, there is a need to develop a structure that can quickly discharge high-temperature gases or flames generated in the battery module to the outside, thereby relieving heat accumulation inside the battery module.

[0011]

[0012] Accordingly, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module that can quickly discharge high-temperature gases or flames generated in the battery module to the outside when thermal runaway of the battery module occurs, thereby eliminating heat accumulation inside the battery module.

[0013] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module that can solve the problem of high-temperature gas or flames discharged from a battery cell being re-introduced into the battery module or flowing into an adjacent battery module, thereby causing thermal runaway to spread when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell.

[0014] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack and a vehicle including such a battery module.

[0015] However, the problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0016]

[0017] In order to solve the above problem, the battery module of the present invention includes a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells and a module case accommodating the cell assembly, the module case including a side cover assembly covering one side of the cell assembly, the side cover assembly including a first plate including at least one first venting hole configured to discharge a venting gas, the venting gas being discharged in a first direction perpendicular to the first plate and configured to bend and move in a second direction substantially parallel to the first plate.

[0018] The first plate may further include at least one first protrusion extending outward from a first surface of the first plate facing the first direction.

[0019] The at least one first protrusion may be formed to surround at least a portion of the at least one first venting hole, and the at least one first protrusion may be characterized by including at least one curved surface bent in the second direction.

[0020] The at least one first venting hole may be characterized in that a plurality of the first venting holes are arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells.

[0021] The venting gas may be configured to be discharged in the second direction by the curved surface.

[0022] The above side cover assembly may be characterized by further including a refractory member disposed on the inner side of the first plate.

[0023] The above refractory member may include at least one venting portion formed at a position at least partially corresponding to the first venting hole.

[0024] The above refractory member may be configured such that at least one venting portion is sealed in a normal state, and at least a portion of the at least one venting portion may be opened when the venting gas is discharged from the battery cell.

[0025] At least one of the venting portions may be formed with a pre-fracture portion configured to be ruptured when venting gas is discharged from the battery cell.

[0026] The side cover assembly may further include a second plate disposed between the first plate and the cell assembly, the second plate including at least one second venting hole formed at a position corresponding to the at least one first venting hole.

[0027] The second plate may further include at least one second protrusion extending outward from a second surface of the second plate facing the first direction.

[0028] The side cover assembly may further include a third plate disposed on the outside of the first plate and including at least one fourth venting hole formed at a position corresponding to the at least one first venting hole.

[0029] The third plate may further include at least one third protrusion extending outward from a third surface of the third plate facing the first direction.

[0030] The side cover assembly may further include a busbar frame disposed between the plurality of battery cells.

[0031] The above busbar frame may include at least one third venting hole formed at a position corresponding to the at least one first venting hole.

[0032] In addition, a battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention can be provided.

[0033] And, it is possible to provide a vehicle characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0034]

[0035] According to one aspect of the present invention, high-temperature gases or flames generated from battery cells within a battery module can be quickly discharged to the outside by directional venting toward the rear. This ensures the safety and reliability of the battery module.

[0036] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, after high-temperature gas or flames, etc., generated from a battery cell in a battery module are discharged rearward, directional venting is induced in a specific direction perpendicular to the rear direction, so that the gas or flames, etc., rotate along one side of the battery module and lose energy, thereby effectively preventing or delaying the gas or flames, etc. from flowing back into the battery module or from being transferred to another battery module to cause thermal runaway.

[0037] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, since a venting hole is formed in the rear plate, the problem of rigidity reduction due to the venting hole is relatively reduced compared to when the venting hole is formed in the top plate, so that the structural rigidity or performance such as vibration or swelling can be maintained.

[0038] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, an event due to thermal runaway phenomenon, such as a fire or explosion, of a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules or a device equipped with the same can be prevented or delayed.

[0039] In addition, the present invention may have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment configuration, or an explanation of effects that can be easily inferred by a person skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0040]

[0041] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention, and together with the detailed description of the invention described below, serve to further understand the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view showing a side cover assembly of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a front view showing a side cover assembly of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a venting gas discharge path during a thermal event of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a side cover assembly of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the side cover assembly of FIG. 7 taken along the X-axis direction according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a side cover assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention taken along the X-axis direction.

[0051] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a side cover assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention taken along the X-axis direction.

[0052] FIGS. 11A and 11B are drawings showing a refractory member including at least one venting portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a refractory member including at least one venting portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining a venting gas discharge path during a thermal event of a battery module in a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0056]

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] Additionally, to facilitate understanding of the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to scale and some components may have exaggerated dimensions. Furthermore, identical components may be assigned the same reference numbers in different embodiments.

[0061] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0062] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0063] Hereinafter, the phrase "any configuration is placed on (or above) (or below)" a component or "on (or below)" a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of the component, but also that other configurations may intervene between the component and any configuration placed on (or below) the component.

[0064] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0065] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "consisting of" or "comprising" should not necessarily be construed to include all of the components or steps described in the specification, and should be construed to mean that some of the components or steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0066] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C to D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0067] Meanwhile, in the present invention, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used, but it is obvious to those skilled in the art that these terms are only for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the location of the target object or the location of the observer.

[0068] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean a width direction or a left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may mean a length direction or a front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and a horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction may mean an up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0069] Fig. 1 is a rear perspective view of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a front perspective view of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cell assembly (100), a module case (300), and a side cover assembly (400).

[0071] Referring primarily to FIG. 3, the cell assembly (100) may include a battery cell (110). The battery cell (110) may be provided in multiple numbers. In this case, the multiple battery cells (110) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0072] A plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along one direction. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be arranged in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and in a parallel manner in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0073] More specifically, a plurality of battery cells (110) may include an electrode assembly and a cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly. The cell case may be, for example, a laminate sheet including a resin layer and a metal layer.

[0074] In addition, a plurality of battery cells (110) may each be provided with an electrode lead (112). The electrode lead (112) is connected to the electrode assembly and may be extended to the outside of the cell case to function as an electrode terminal. The electrode leads (112) may be provided in pairs, and a pair of electrode leads (112) may be extended from both ends of the battery cell (110), i.e., in the longitudinal direction (Y direction). At this time, a pair of electrode leads (112) may be a positive lead and a negative lead.

[0075] 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 to configure the battery module (10) of the present invention. In the present embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery having a high energy density and easy stacking is targeted as shown in the drawing, but it goes without saying that a cylindrical or square secondary battery may be applied as the battery cell (110).

[0076] In addition, referring to FIG. 3, the cell assembly (100) of the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a blocking member (120). The blocking member (120) may be provided between battery cells (110) and configured to partition between a plurality of battery cells (110). In particular, at least one blocking member (120) may be included in one battery module (10). A plurality of blocking members (120) may be provided along one direction in which the battery cells (110) are arranged.

[0077] The blocking member (120) may be provided in a form in which it is arranged for at least one battery cell (110). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, in a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a blocking member (120) may be arranged for every two battery cells (110).

[0078] The blocking member (120) may be provided as an insulating pad thinner than the battery cell (110). The blocking member (120) may be provided with a material having excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. Alternatively, the blocking member (120) may be provided in the form of a compressible pad, for example, with a material such as silicone or aerogel.

[0079] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the battery cells (110) can be partitioned or separated to prevent heat from being transmitted to other adjacent blocking members (120) by gases or flames. In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the blocking member (120) can contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cells (110) by compressing the battery cells (110) when the battery cells (110) are swollen.

[0080] The module terminal (130) may be configured to be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (110). The module terminal (130) may include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. In addition, the module terminal (130) may be configured to be electrically or communicatively connected to a control device such as a BMS.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a module case (300) may be configured to accommodate a cell assembly (100). Specifically, a receiving space may be formed in the module case (300), and the cell assembly (100) may be accommodated in the receiving space. The module case (300) may be configured to be made of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the accommodated cell assembly (100).

[0082] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the module case (300) may include a case body (310), a front plate (320), a top plate (330), a top cover (340), and a side cover assembly (e.g., a rear plate) (400).

[0083] Specifically, as illustrated in the drawings of the present invention, the case body (310) may be provided as a U-frame. When the case body (310) is provided as a U-frame, it may be provided to cover both sides and the lower surface of the cell assembly (100). The case body (310) may include a left plate and a right plate covering both sides of the cell assembly (100), and a lower plate covering the lower surface of the cell assembly (100). In addition, the left plate, the right plate, and the lower plate may be configured in an integrated form. At this time, the upper surface and the front and rear surfaces of the case body (310) may be open.

[0084] When the case body (310) is provided with a U-frame, it may further include a top plate (330) that is coupled to the open upper surface of the case body (310). The top plate (330) may be welded to the case body (310) and coupled to each other. At this time, the shape in which the top plate (330) and the case body (310) are coupled may be a square tubular shape with the front and back sides open.

[0085] The module case (300) may further include a top cover (340) coupled to the upper side of the top plate (330). The top cover (340) of the module case (300) may prevent heat from escaping in an upward direction and induce directional venting toward the rear side. In addition, it may contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery module (10). For example, the top cover (340) may be provided as a U-frame. For example, the top cover (340) may be provided as a U-frame having an upside-down shape. When the top cover (340) is provided as a U-frame, it may be provided to cover both sides and the upper side of the cell assembly (100). The top cover (340) may include a left plate and a right plate covering both sides of the cell assembly (100), and an upper plate covering the upper side of the cell assembly (100). In addition, the left plate, the right plate, and the upper plate may be configured in an integrated form. At this time, the lower surface and the front and rear surfaces of the top cover (340) can be opened. The top cover (340) overlaps the upper surface and both sides together with the top plate (330) and the case body (310) to reinforce structural rigidity and indirectly induce directional venting toward the rear side. In addition, the top cover (340) and / or the top plate (330) do not include a vent hole, so that structural rigidity can be maintained. However, the top plate (330) or the top cover (340) may be omitted or its shape may be modified depending on the embodiment, and the design may be changed in various ways.

[0086] In addition, the module case (300) may be formed in various other shapes. For example, the module case (300) may be provided as a monoframe. For example, the case body (310) may be configured in the shape of a square tube having an upper surface, a lower surface, a left surface, and a right surface, and having an open front and back surface.

[0087] The front plate (320) and the side cover assembly (400) may be provided on the open front and rear sides of the case body (310), respectively. For example, the front plate (320) and the side cover assembly (400) may be welded and joined to the case body (310). For example, the front plate (320) and the side cover assembly (400) may be connected to the top cover (340) by welding or a joining means such as screws or rivets. Alternatively, the front plate (320) and the side cover assembly (400) may be formed integrally with the case body (310).

[0088] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the front plate (320) may be provided with a module terminal (130). The front plate (320) may be partially provided with holes or slits for exposing components that require external exposure, such as the module terminal (130) or connector of the battery module (10).

[0089] Meanwhile, the front plate (320) and the side cover assembly (400) may have, for example, an inner surface made of an insulating material and an outer surface made of a metal material. The structure and configuration of the side cover assembly (400) will be described in detail below.

[0090] Referring primarily to FIG. 3, the battery module (10) may further include an insulating member (301) attached to the module case (300). For example, the insulating member (301) may be provided as an insulating pad or insulating sheet having a relatively thin thickness. The insulating member (301) may be provided with a material having excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance as well as excellent insulating performance.

[0091] The insulating member (301) may be attached to both sides of the module case (300). For example, the insulating member (301) may be disposed on the left side and / or the right side of the case body (310) and / or the top cover (340). The size of the insulating member (301) may be relatively smaller than or substantially the same as the size of the left side or the right side of the case body (310) and / or the top cover (340). The shape of the insulating member (301) may be a rectangular shape substantially similar to the left side or the right side of the case body (310) and / or the top cover (340), but the shape of the insulating member (301) is not limited by the above embodiment and may be designed in various ways.

[0092] By attaching an insulating member (301) to both sides of the battery module (10), it is possible to prevent heat gas or exhaust gas generated from the battery module (10) from being transferred to an adjacent battery module (10). In addition, the venting gas vented to the rear may move along the side of the battery module (10) and affect the adjacent battery module (10), but by attaching an insulating member (301) to both sides of the battery module (10), the heat transfer can be reduced or prevented.

[0093] Referring further to FIG. 3, the battery module (10) of the present invention may further include a busbar frame (200). The busbar frame (200) may be provided inside the module case (300) and configured to cover at least one side of the cell assembly (100).

[0094] The busbar frame (200) may be positioned on the side where the electrode leads (112) of the battery cell (110) are provided. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the electrode leads (112) may be positioned on the front and rear sides of the battery cell (110), and the busbar frame (200) may be coupled to the front and rear of the cell assembly (100).

[0095] Accordingly, the busbar frame (200) may include a front-side busbar frame (200a) and a rear-side busbar frame (200b). The busbar frame (200) may be formed of a material having electrical insulation properties, such as a plastic material.

[0096] Fig. 4 is an enlarged view showing a side cover assembly (400) of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5 is a front view showing a side cover assembly (400) of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6 is a drawing for explaining a venting gas discharge path during a thermal event of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the battery module (10) may include a cell assembly (100) and a module case (300). The module case (300) may include a side cover assembly (400). The configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIGS. 4 to 6 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIGS. 1 to 3. The embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 6 may be partially combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0098] The side cover assembly (400) may cover one side of the cell assembly (100). For example, the side cover assembly (400) may be configured to be coupled to the open rear surface of the case body. For example, the side cover assembly (400) may be coupled to the case body (310) and / or the top cover (340) by welding or a coupling means such as a screw or a rivet. For example, the first plate (410) of the side cover assembly (400), which will be described later, may include at least one first groove portion (401), and may be configured to be coupled to the case body (310) and / or the top cover (340) by inserting a fixing pin or a clip into the first groove portion (401).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the side cover assembly (400) may include a first plate (410) (e.g., an end plate) including at least one first venting hole (H1) configured to discharge venting gas.

[0100] The first plate (410) may be defined as a type of module case (300) exposed to the outside of the battery module (10) and may be configured to surround at least a portion of the cell assembly (100). The first plate (410) may include a material having high strength to protect the cell assembly (100). For example, the first plate (410) may include a metal material such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, or steel.

[0101] At least one first venting hole (H1) may be configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell (110) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (300). Thus, directional venting in one direction may be possible in the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. According to one embodiment, at least one first venting hole (H1) may be configured to allow venting gas to be discharged in the first direction (e.g., -Y-axis direction). For example, directional venting toward the rear of the battery module (10) may be possible through the first venting hole (H1).

[0102] In this way, at least one first venting hole (H1) provided on the rear surface of the module case (300) may be provided to discharge gas or flame generated inside the battery module (10) to the outside of the battery module (10) when thermal runaway of the battery module (10) occurs. The remaining portion of the module case (300) excluding at least one first venting hole (H1) is sealed, and gas or flame can be discharged in a straight line toward the at least one first venting hole (H1).

[0103] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs at any location of the battery cell (110), the gas or flame generated in the battery cell (110) is discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through the adjacent first venting holes (H1) provided at the rear of the battery cell (110), thereby facilitating venting.

[0104] In this way, by forming at least one first venting hole (H1) on the rear side of the module case (300), the venting gas generated from the battery cell (110) is not discharged upward, so that high-temperature gas or flames discharged from the battery cell (110) can be prevented from hitting the top plate (330) or top cover (340) facing upward and flowing back into the battery module (10) or flowing into an adjacent battery module (10) to cause thermal runaway to propagate.

[0105] In addition, by forming at least one first venting hole (H1) on the rear side of the module case (300), the problem of rigidity reduction due to the venting hole is relatively reduced compared to when the venting hole is formed on the top plate (330), so that the structural rigidity of the battery module (10) or performance such as vibration or swelling can be improved or maintained.

[0106] At least one first venting hole (H1) may be provided in multiple numbers. The at least one first venting hole (H1) may be arranged in multiple numbers in at least one direction. The at least one first venting hole (H1) may be arranged along multiple rows. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the at least one first venting hole (H1) is arranged in a single row along the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the first plate (410), and the at least one first venting hole (H1) arranged in a single row may be arranged in multiple rows along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110), that is, the width direction (X-axis direction) of the first plate (410). These multiple first venting holes (H1) may be arranged at regular intervals from each other. The multiple first venting holes (H1) may all guide the venting gas to be discharged in the same first direction (-Y-axis direction).

[0107] According to one embodiment, the first plate (410) may further include at least one first protrusion (411) extending outward from a first surface (412) facing in a first direction (-Y-axis direction), which is an outward direction of the first plate (410). The number and position of the at least one first protrusion (411) may correspond to the number and position of the at least one first venting hole (H1). For example, the at least one first protrusion (411) may be formed integrally with the first plate (410). For example, the first plate (410) may be integrally injection-molded along the shape of the first protrusion (411). The processing of the first plate (410) may be relatively easier than the processing of the second plate (420) according to FIG. 9, which will be described later.

[0108] According to one embodiment, at least one first protrusion (411) may be formed to surround at least a portion of at least one first venting hole (H1). According to one embodiment, at least one first protrusion (411) may include a curved surface (411c) bent in a second direction that is approximately perpendicular to the first direction. Specifically, at least one first protrusion (411) may include a first protrusion surface (411a) extending in an upper direction of the first venting hole (H1), a second protrusion surface (411b) extending in a lower direction of the first venting hole (H1), and a curved surface (411c) that is in contact with the first protrusion surface (411a) and the second protrusion surface (411b) and is bent in the second direction. For example, the second direction may be a direction that is approximately parallel to the first surface (412) of the first plate (410). For example, the second direction may be a leftward direction (-X-axis direction) or a rightward direction (+X-axis direction) that is approximately perpendicular to the first direction. For example, referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the second direction may be approximately a leftward direction (-X-axis direction).

[0109] In this way, by the first protrusion (411) including the curved surface (411c) bent in the second direction, the venting gas, etc., which was vented in the first direction (-Y-axis direction) can be configured to bend in the second direction (e.g., -X-axis direction) and move in the second direction. When the discharged matter, flame, etc., discharged from the battery cell (110) is bent from the first direction to the second direction, it can move in the second direction along the first surface (412) of the first plate (410). In addition, the bending gas, etc., can move by curved along the side surface of the battery module (10) and then move in the upward direction. For example, referring to FIG. 6, the venting gas, etc. discharged from the battery cell (110) may be vented in the first direction (-Y-axis direction), then move in the second direction (-X-axis direction) along the first surface (412) of the first plate (410), move in the front direction (+Y-axis direction) along the left side of the battery module (10), move in the right direction (+X-axis direction) along the front plate (320) of the battery module (10), and then move upward (+Z-axis direction). In this way, the venting gas, etc. discharged from the battery cell (110) may not be directly vented in the upward direction, but may move along the side of the battery module (10) to lose kinetic energy and thermal energy, and then rise in the upward direction of the battery module (10). Venting gas, etc., which has risen with reduced energy is distributed to the top of the battery module (10) and moves and / or is discharged in the direction of the venting valve, thereby reducing the flow of heat or the deviation in the flow rate of heat inside the battery pack (1), thereby suppressing and delaying heat propagation.

[0110] Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a side cover assembly (400) of a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the side cover assembly (400) of Fig. 7 taken along the X-axis direction according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the battery module (10) may include a cell assembly (100) and a module case (300). The module case (300) may include a side cover assembly (400). The configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIGS. 7 and 8 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIGS. 4 to 6. The embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8 may be partially combined with the embodiment of FIGS. 4 to 6.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the side cover assembly (400) may further include a second plate (420) that includes at least one second venting hole (H2) formed at a position corresponding to at least one first venting hole (H1) and is disposed between the first plate (410) and the cell assembly (100).

[0113] The second plate (420) may be placed on the inside of the first plate (410). The second plate (420) may be fitted to the first plate (410) or may be joined by a joining means such as welding, screws, or rivets. For example, the second plate (420) may include a second groove (402) corresponding to the first groove (401) formed in the first plate (410), and the first groove (401) and the second groove (402) may form an integral groove when joined. The first groove (401) and the second groove (402) may be configured such that a fixing pin or clip, etc. is inserted into the first groove (401) and the second groove (402) to be joined to the case body (310) and / or the top cover (340).

[0114] The second plate (420) may be a plate that includes an insulating material to prevent current or heat from passing through. For example, the second plate (420) may include an insulating material such as plastic.

[0115] At least one second venting hole (H2) may be configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell (110) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (300), similar to the first venting hole (H1). According to one embodiment, the at least one second venting hole (H2) may be configured to allow venting gas to be discharged in a first direction (e.g., -Y-axis direction). For example, directional venting toward the rear of the battery module (10) may be possible through the second venting hole (H2). In this way, the at least one second venting hole (H2) provided at the rear of the module case (300) may be configured to allow gas or flame generated inside the battery module (10) to be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) when thermal runaway of the battery module (10) occurs, similar to the first venting hole (H1). The remaining portion of the module case (300) except for at least one second venting hole (H2) is sealed, and gas can be discharged in a straight line toward at least one second venting hole (H2).

[0116] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs at any location of the battery cell (110), the gas or flame generated in the battery cell (110) is discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through a specific second venting hole (H2) provided at the rear of the battery cell (110), thereby facilitating venting.

[0117] At least one second venting hole (H2) may be provided in multiple numbers. The at least one second venting hole (H2) may be arranged in multiple numbers in at least one direction. The at least one second venting hole (H2) may be arranged along multiple rows. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the at least one second venting hole (H2) may be arranged in a single row along the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the second plate (420), and the at least one second venting hole (H2) arranged in a single row may be arranged in multiple rows along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110), that is, the width direction (X-axis direction) of the second plate (420). These multiple second venting holes (H2) may be arranged at regular intervals from each other. All of the multiple second venting holes (H2) may guide the venting gas to be discharged in the first direction (-Y-axis direction) equally.

[0118] At least one second venting hole (H2) may be arranged and formed to correspond to the first venting hole (H1). In other words, the second venting hole (H2) may be configured to communicate with the first venting hole (H1). The second venting hole (H2) may be provided to at least partially face the first venting hole (H1). The first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2) may be arranged along an approximately straight line. According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, the venting gas or flame, etc. may be discharged to the outside along an approximately straight line by the first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2). Accordingly, the venting gas or flame, etc. may be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) more quickly.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the side cover assembly (400) may further include a refractory member (430) disposed on the inner side of the first plate (410). For example, the refractory member (430) may be disposed between the second plate (420) and the rear side busbar frame (200b). The refractory member (430) may include a material having excellent refractory, heat-resistant, or thermal insulation properties. The refractory member (430) may include, for example, a thin refractory sheet or refractory pad. For example, the refractory member (430) may include ceramic fiber.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the refractory member (430) may include at least one venting portion (431) formed at a position corresponding to at least one first venting hole (H1) (or at least one second venting hole (H2)). For example, a preliminary rupture portion configured to be ruptured when venting gas is discharged from the battery cell (110) may be formed in the at least one venting portion (431). Accordingly, the refractory member (430) may be configured such that at least one venting portion (431) is sealed in a normal state, and at least a portion of the at least one venting portion (431) may be opened when venting gas is discharged from the battery cell (110). In other words, the at least one venting portion (431) may be configured such that venting gas can be discharged by pressure, but reverse inflow of oxygen can be blocked after the venting pressure is reduced. In this way, by arranging the refractory member (430) on the inner side of the first plate (410) or the second plate (420), the inflow of venting gas discharged from an adjacent battery cell (110) can be prevented, and the possibility of the discharged venting gas being reversely inflowed can be reduced. However, the shape of the refractory member (430) or the shape and arrangement of the venting portion (431) are not limited by the embodiment of FIG. 7, and can be designed in various ways. The shape and arrangement of the venting portion (431) will be described in detail below.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the busbar frame (200b) may be disposed between the side cover assembly (400) and a plurality of battery cells (110). According to one embodiment, the busbar frame (200b) may further include at least one third venting hole (H3). The at least one third venting hole (H3) may be configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell (110) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (300). Thus, directional venting in one direction may be possible in the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] According to one embodiment, at least one third venting hole (H3) may be configured to allow venting gas to be discharged in a first direction (e.g., -Y-axis direction). For example, directional venting toward the rear of the battery module (10) may be possible through the third venting hole (H3). In this way, at least one third venting hole (H3) provided at the rear of the module case (300) may be configured to discharge gas or flame generated inside the battery module (10) to the outside of the battery module (10) when thermal runaway of the battery module (10) occurs, similar to the first venting hole (H1) and the second venting hole (H2). The remaining portion of the module case (300) except for at least one third venting hole (H3) is sealed, and gas or flame can be discharged in a straight line toward the at least one third venting hole (H3). Specifically, referring to FIG. 3, the front side bus bar frame (200a) does not include a venting hole, and only the rear side bus bar frame (200b) includes at least one third venting hole (H3), thereby inducing directional venting toward the rear.

[0123] At least one third venting hole (H3) may be provided in multiple numbers. The at least one third venting hole (H3) may be arranged in multiple numbers in at least one direction. The at least one third venting hole (H3) may be arranged along multiple rows. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the at least one third venting hole (H3) may be arranged in a single row along the height direction (Z-axis direction), and the at least one third venting hole (H3) arranged in a single row may be arranged in multiple rows along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110), that is, the width direction (X-axis direction) of the busbar frame (200b). The multiple third venting holes (H3) may be arranged at regular intervals from each other. All of the multiple third venting holes (H3) may guide the venting gas to be discharged in the first direction (-Y-axis direction) equally.

[0124] At least one third venting hole (H3) may be arranged and formed to correspond to the first venting hole (H1) and / or the second venting hole (H2). In other words, the third venting hole (H3) may be configured to communicate with the first venting hole (H1) and / or the second venting hole (H2). The third venting hole (H3) may be provided to at least partially face the second venting hole (H2). The third venting hole (H3), the second venting hole (H2), and the first venting hole (H1) may be arranged substantially along a straight line. According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, venting gas or flame, etc. may be discharged to the outside along a substantially straight line by the third venting hole (H3), the second venting hole (H2), and the first venting hole (H1). Accordingly, the venting gas or flame, etc. may be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) more quickly.

[0125] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a side cover assembly (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention taken along the X-axis direction.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 9, the battery module (10) may include a cell assembly (100) and a module case (300). The module case (300) may include a side cover assembly (400). The configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIG. 9 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIGS. 7 and 8. The embodiment of FIG. 9 may be partially combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0127] Unlike FIGS. 7 and 8, at least one second protrusion (421) may be formed on the second plate (420) disposed on the inside. According to one embodiment, the second plate (420) may further include at least one second protrusion (421) extending outward from a second surface (422) facing the first direction (-Y-axis direction), which is the outward direction of the second plate (420). The number and position of the at least one second protrusion (421) may correspond to the number and position of the at least one second venting hole (H2). For example, the at least one second protrusion (421) may be formed integrally with the second plate (420). For example, the second plate (420) may be integrally injection-molded to match the shape of the second protrusion (421).

[0128] According to one embodiment, at least one second protrusion (421) may be formed to surround at least a portion of at least one second venting hole (H2). According to one embodiment, at least one second protrusion (421) may include a curved surface (421c) bent in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction. Specifically, at least one second protrusion (421) may include a first protrusion surface (421a) extending in an upper direction of the second venting hole (H2), a second protrusion surface (421b) extending in a lower direction of the second venting hole (H2), and a curved surface (421c) that is in contact with the first protrusion surface (421a) and the second protrusion surface (421b) and is bent in the second direction. For example, the second direction may be a direction that is approximately parallel to the second surface (422) of the second plate (420). For example, the second direction may be a leftward or rightward direction (X-axis direction) that is approximately perpendicular to the first direction. For example, referring to FIG. 9, the second direction may be approximately a leftward direction (-X-axis direction).

[0129] At least one second protrusion (421) formed on the second plate (420) may be configured to penetrate at least one first venting hole (H1) of the first plate (410). Accordingly, the second protrusion (421) may be exposed to the outside of the battery module (10) and may form a part of the exterior of the battery module (10). The first plate (410) and the second plate (420) may be fixed through a fitting joint or the like by allowing at least one second protrusion (421) to penetrate at least one first venting hole (H1).

[0130] Meanwhile, other features of at least one second protrusion (421) may be substantially identical to at least one first protrusion (411) shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0131] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a side cover assembly (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention taken along the X-axis direction.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 10, a battery module (10) may include a cell assembly (100) and a module case (300). The module case (300) may include a side cover assembly (400). The configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIG. 10 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIG. 9. The embodiment of FIG. 10 may be partially combined with the embodiment of FIG. 9.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the side cover assembly (400) may further include a third plate (440) disposed on the outer side of the second plate (420). For example, the third plate (440) may be attached on the second side (422) of the second plate (420).

[0134] The third plate (440) may include a material having electrical insulation and heat resistance. For example, the third plate (440) may include mica. For example, the third plate (440) may include hard mica.

[0135] The third plate (440) may include at least one fourth venting hole (H4) formed at a position corresponding to at least one second venting hole (H2). The at least one fourth venting hole (H4) may be configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell (110) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (300). Thus, directional venting in one direction may be possible in the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] At least one fourth venting hole (H4) may be configured to allow venting gas to be discharged in a first direction (e.g., -Y-axis direction). For example, directional venting toward the rear of the battery module (10) may be possible through the fourth venting hole (H4). In this way, at least one fourth venting hole (H4) provided at the rear of the module case (300) may be configured to discharge gas or flame generated inside the battery module (10) to the outside of the battery module (10) when thermal runaway of the battery module (10) occurs, similar to the first venting hole (H1). The remaining portion of the module case (300) except for at least one fourth venting hole (H4) is sealed, and gas or flame may be discharged in a straight line toward the at least one fourth venting hole (H4).

[0137] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs at any location of the battery cell (110), the gas or flame generated in the battery cell (110) is discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through a specific fourth venting hole (H4) provided at the rear of the battery cell (110), thereby facilitating venting.

[0138] At least one fourth venting hole (H4) may be provided in multiple numbers. The at least one fourth venting hole (H4) may be arranged in multiple numbers in at least one direction. The at least one fourth venting hole (H4) may be arranged along multiple rows. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the at least one fourth venting hole (H4) may be arranged in a single row along the height direction (Z-axis direction) of the third plate (440), and the at least one fourth venting hole (H4) arranged in a single row may be arranged in multiple rows along the stacking direction of the battery cells (110), that is, the width direction (X-axis direction) of the third plate (440). These multiple fourth venting holes (H4) may be arranged at regular intervals from each other. All of the multiple fourth venting holes (H4) may guide the venting gas to be discharged in the first direction (-Y-axis direction) equally.

[0139] At least one fourth venting hole (H4) may be arranged and formed to correspond to the first venting hole (H1). In other words, the fourth venting hole (H4) may be configured to communicate with the first venting hole (H1). The fourth venting hole (H4) may be provided to at least partially face the first venting hole (H1). The first venting hole (H1) and the fourth venting hole (H4) may be arranged along an approximately straight line. According to the above-described exemplary configuration of the present invention, venting gas or flame, etc. may be discharged to the outside along an approximately straight line by the first venting hole (H1) and the fourth venting hole (H4). Accordingly, the venting gas or flame, etc. may be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) more quickly.

[0140] The third plate (440) may further include at least one third protrusion (441) extending outward from a third surface (442) facing the first direction (-Y-axis direction), which is the outer direction of the third plate (440). The number and position of the at least one third protrusion (441) may correspond to the number and position of the at least one first venting hole (H1). For example, the at least one third protrusion (441) may be formed integrally with the third plate (440). For example, the third plate (440) may be injection-molded to fit the shape of the third protrusion (441).

[0141] According to one embodiment, at least one third protrusion (441) may be formed to surround at least a portion of at least one third venting hole (H3). According to one embodiment, at least one third protrusion (441) may include a curved surface (441c) bent in a second direction that is approximately perpendicular to the first direction. Specifically, at least one third protrusion (441) may include a first protrusion surface (441a) extending in an upper direction of the fourth venting hole (H4), a second protrusion surface (441b) extending in a lower direction of the fourth venting hole (H4), and a curved surface (441c) that is in contact with the first protrusion surface (441a) and the second protrusion surface (441b) and is bent in the second direction. For example, the second direction may be a direction that is approximately parallel to the third surface (442) of the third plate (440). For example, the second direction may be a leftward or rightward direction (X-axis direction) that is approximately perpendicular to the first direction. For example, referring to FIG. 10, the second direction may be approximately a leftward direction (-X-axis direction).

[0142] Meanwhile, other features of at least one third protrusion (441) may be substantially identical to at least one first protrusion (411) shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0143] FIGS. 11A and 11B are drawings showing a refractory member (430) including at least one venting portion (431) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a refractory member (430) including at least one venting portion (431) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 11A to 12, a battery module (10) may include a cell assembly (100) and a module case (300). The module case (300) may include a side cover assembly (400). The configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIGS. 11A to 12 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the side cover assembly (400) of FIG. 10. The embodiment of FIGS. 11A to 12 may be partially combined with the embodiment of FIG. 10.

[0145] According to one embodiment, at least one venting portion (431) may include a preliminary rupture portion configured to be ruptured when venting gas is discharged from the battery cell (110). Accordingly, the refractory member (430) may be configured such that at least one venting portion (431) is sealed under normal conditions, and at least a portion of the at least one venting portion (431) may be opened when venting gas is discharged from the battery cell (110). In other words, the at least one venting portion (431) may be configured to allow venting gas to be discharged by pressure, but to block the reverse inflow of oxygen after the venting pressure is reduced. In this way, by arranging the refractory member (430) on the inner side of the first plate (410) or the second plate (420), the inflow of venting gas discharged from an adjacent battery cell (110) may be prevented, and the possibility of the discharged venting gas being reversely inflowed may be reduced.

[0146] For example, a pre-fracture portion may be formed along the shape of the venting portion (431). The pre-fracture portion may be configured to be thinner or have a lower density than the surrounding area of ​​the refractory member (430), so that it is easier to fracture than the surrounding area. The refractory member (430) may be provided with a groove, a broken line, or a solid line, depending on the shape of the pre-fracture portion. The pre-fracture portion may be provided to be weaker than the adjacent area, so that it can be easily fractured by the venting pressure.

[0147] The venting portion (431) can be formed at a position corresponding to at least a portion of the venting hole (e.g., the first venting hole (H1), the second venting hole (H2), the third venting hole (H3)), and the arrangement method can be designed in various ways.

[0148] Referring to Fig. 11a, the venting portion (431a) may have a plurality of spare break portions spaced apart from each other arranged in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction). A plurality of spare break portions aligned in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) may be provided in a plurality of vertical directions.

[0149] Referring to Fig. 11b, the venting portion (431b) may be arranged in two stages vertically with a plurality of preliminary break portions arranged in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction). The plurality of preliminary break portions arranged in two stages may be aligned in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) and the height direction (Z-axis direction).

[0150] Referring to FIG. 12, the refractory member (430) may be composed of a single sheet as well as a double sheet. For example, the refractory member (430) may include a first refractory member (430a) and a second refractory member (430b) that are arranged in an overlapping manner. At this time, the shapes of the preliminary break portions of the first refractory member (430a) and the second refractory member (430b) may be different from each other. For example, the venting portion (431c) of the first refractory member (430a) may have a plurality of cut grooves arranged in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The plurality of cut grooves aligned in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) may be provided in a plurality in the longitudinal direction. For example, the venting portion (431d) of the second refractory member (430b) may include a preliminary break portion including a single line formed to extend in the longitudinal direction and diagonal lines bifurcating from both ends of the single line. The above-mentioned preliminary break portions may be provided in multiple numbers aligned in the longitudinal and vertical directions.

[0151] Accordingly, the shape and arrangement of the preliminary fracture portion of the refractory member (430) can be designed in various ways, and when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (110), the preliminary fracture portion adjacent to the location of occurrence is fractured to discharge venting gas, and the remaining preliminary fracture portions are not fractured to prevent venting gas from flowing inside.

[0152] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining a venting gas discharge path during a thermal event of a battery module (10) in a battery pack including a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 13, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. The battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include a pack case (2) for accommodating components such as a BMS (Battery Management System), a current sensor, a fuse, etc. for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules (10), and a cross beam (3) for aligning the battery modules (10) within the pack case (2).

[0154] Referring to FIG. 13, a plurality of battery modules (10) may be arranged such that the rear surface of the battery module (10) having venting holes (e.g., a first venting hole (H1), a second venting hole (H2), a third venting hole (H3), etc.) faces the outside of the pack case (2). In this way, by arranging the venting holes to face the outside of the pack case (2), heat transfer to adjacent battery modules (10) can be minimized, and venting gas can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery pack.

[0155] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (110) inside a battery module (10), venting gas or flames, etc. can be directionally vented toward the rear side of the battery module (10) while passing through the venting holes (e.g., the first venting hole (H1), the second venting hole (H2), the third venting hole (H3), etc.). Accordingly, the venting gas or flames, etc. discharged toward the rear side can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1).

[0156] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas or flame, etc., is discharged to the rear of the battery module (10), and may bend and move in a substantially vertical direction by hitting the curved surface (411c) of the protrusion (e.g., the first protrusion (411), the second protrusion (421), or the third protrusion (441)). For example, it may vent in a direction substantially parallel to one side of the side cover assembly (400). In addition, it may be configured to curve and move along the side surface of the battery module (10) and then rise. That is, the venting gas, etc., may be configured to move along the space between the battery modules (10) or the space between the battery modules (10) and the cross beam (3). In this way, the venting gas, etc. may move along the side surface of the battery module (10), lose kinetic energy and thermal energy, and then rise in the upper direction of the battery module (10). Venting gases, etc., which have risen with reduced energy are dispersed toward the top of the battery module (10) and move and / or are discharged toward the venting valve, thereby reducing the heat flow or heat flow rate deviation within the battery pack, thereby suppressing and delaying heat propagation. 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.

[0157] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 14, a vehicle (V) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include at least one battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (V) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (V) includes a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheel vehicle. The vehicle (V) operates by receiving power from the battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. A cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells; and A module case that accommodates the cell assembly, comprising a module case including a side cover assembly that covers one side of the cell assembly; The above side cover assembly, A first plate comprising at least one first venting hole configured to discharge a venting gas; A battery module configured such that the venting gas is discharged in a first direction perpendicular to the first plate and moves by bending in a second direction approximately parallel to the first plate.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the first plate further includes at least one first protrusion extending outward from a first surface of the first plate facing the first direction.

3. In paragraph 2, wherein said at least one first protrusion is formed to surround at least a portion of said at least one first venting hole, A battery module characterized in that the at least one first protrusion includes at least one curved surface bent in the second direction.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the at least one first venting hole is arranged in a plurality along the stacking direction of the battery cells.

5. In paragraph 3, A battery module configured such that the venting gas is discharged in the second direction by the curved surface.

6. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the side cover assembly further includes a refractory member disposed on the inner side of the first plate.

7. In paragraph 6, A battery module comprising at least one venting portion formed at a position corresponding to at least a portion of the first venting hole, wherein the refractory member comprises:

8. In paragraph 7, A battery module in which the above-mentioned refractory member is configured such that at least one of the venting portions is sealed in a normal state, and at least a portion of the at least one venting portion is configured to open when the venting gas is discharged from the battery cell.

9. In paragraph 7, A battery module having a preliminary rupture portion formed in at least one of the venting portions so as to be ruptured when venting gas is discharged from the battery cell.

10. In paragraph 1, The above side cover assembly, A battery module further comprising a second plate disposed between the first plate and the cell assembly, the second plate including at least one second venting hole formed at a position corresponding to the at least one first venting hole.

11. In paragraph 10, A battery module characterized in that the second plate further includes at least one second protrusion extending outward from the second surface of the second plate facing the first direction.

12. In paragraph 10, The above side cover assembly, A battery module further comprising a third plate disposed on the outer side of the first plate and including at least one fourth venting hole formed at a position corresponding to the at least one first venting hole.

13. In paragraph 12, A battery module characterized in that the third plate further includes at least one third protrusion extending outward from a third surface of the third plate facing the first direction.

14. In paragraph 1, A battery module further comprising a busbar frame disposed between the side cover assembly and the plurality of battery cells.

15. In paragraph 14, A battery module in which the busbar frame includes at least one third venting hole formed at a position corresponding to the at least one first venting hole.

16. A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to Article 16.

Images