Battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack, the battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery cells; and a pack case housing the plurality of battery cells and provided with first and second venting channels on respective sides of each of the plurality of battery cells so that venting gas generated in the battery cells flow thereinto.

Description

Battery pack and vehicle including same

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack, and more particularly, to a battery pack with enhanced safety and a vehicle including the same.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0079908, filed on June 19, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated herein by reference.

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

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

[0005] When 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.

[0006] 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.

[0007] In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery module, venting gases, etc. may be released outside the battery module. In this case, heat may be transferred to other battery modules by the venting gases, potentially triggering a thermal chain reaction in other battery modules.

[0008] Therefore, when an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a battery pack, there is a need to develop a structure that can prevent or suppress the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells and / or battery modules by minimizing the thermal energy received by adjacent battery modules.

[0009] Accordingly, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack that can prevent or suppress the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules by minimizing the thermal energy received by adjacent battery cells and / or battery modules when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module.

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

[0011] To solve the above problem, the present invention provides a battery pack including a plurality of battery cells; and a pack case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells, and having a first venting channel and a second venting channel formed on both sides of the plurality of battery cells so that a venting gas generated from the battery cells flows therein.

[0012] The first venting channel may be provided at the bottom of the plurality of battery cells, and the second venting channel may be provided at the top of the plurality of battery cells.

[0013] The first venting channel and the second venting channel may each form a plurality of groups, and a plurality of grouped first venting channels and second venting channels may be provided.

[0014] The first venting channel and the second venting channel may be provided corresponding to at least some of the plurality of battery cells, respectively.

[0015] The first venting channel and the second venting channel may be configured in a shape that is sunken inward from the inner surface of the pack case.

[0016] The first venting channel and the second venting channel may each be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell.

[0017] The first venting channel and the second venting channel may each be provided in multiple numbers and arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells.

[0018] The pack case may have a hollow structure formed therein, and a third venting channel may be formed to be connected to the first venting channel and the second venting channel and communicate with the outside of the pack case.

[0019] The pack case may be configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and may include a base frame having the first venting channel formed in an internal space, an upper frame configured to cover the upper portion of the plurality of battery cells and having the second venting channel formed in an internal space, and a side frame extending upward from an edge of the base frame and having the third venting channel formed in an internal space.

[0020] The above pack case may be provided with a venting device configured to communicate with the third venting channel and discharge venting gas within the third venting channel to the outside.

[0021] The pack case is configured to group the plurality of battery cells, and may have a cross beam formed in an internal space with a fourth venting channel configured to communicate with the first venting channel, the second venting channel, and the third venting channel.

[0022] The above pack case may be provided on both sides of the plurality of battery cells so that cooling channels are formed through which a cooling medium flows.

[0023] The above cooling channel may include a lower cooling channel located below the first venting channel and an upper cooling channel located above the second venting channel.

[0024] It may further include a cooling plate in which the first venting channel, the second venting channel, and the cooling channel are formed.

[0025] The device may further include cooling fins provided between some of the plurality of battery cells.

[0026] The cooling fin may be configured such that its end is inserted into a side surface where at least one of the first venting channel and the second venting channel of the pack case is formed.

[0027] The device may further include a plurality of module cases configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having upper and lower surfaces at least partially open.

[0028] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0029] According to one aspect of the present invention, the flow of fluids, such as venting gas, toward adjacent battery cells and / or battery modules can be minimized. This prevents or suppresses thermal runaway propagation between battery cells and / or battery modules, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0030] Moreover, according to another aspect of the present invention, safe venting performance of the battery pack can be secured by quickly discharging venting gas generated in the battery module to the outside of the battery pack.

[0031] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, efficient cooling performance of the battery pack can be secured by directly cooling the battery cells from both sides by a cooling medium.

[0032] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, events resulting from thermal runaway of a device equipped with a battery pack, such as fire or explosion, can be prevented or delayed.

[0033] In addition, the present invention may have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment configuration, or the description of effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0034] 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.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 4 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0039] FIG. 5 is an internal perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a first venting channel.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of an upper frame of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a second venting channel.

[0041] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above. For example, Fig. 7 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section II-II' of Fig. 1.

[0042] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 8 may be a drawing showing cross-section Ⅲ-Ⅲ' of Fig. 1.

[0043] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of the inside of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a communication hole.

[0044] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 10 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0045] Figure 11 is an enlarged drawing of part A of Figure 10, and is a drawing for explaining cooling fins.

[0046] Figure 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean a left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may mean a front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on 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.

[0057]

[0058] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 4 may be a drawing showing a cross-section taken along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (100) and a pack case (200).

[0060] First, referring primarily to FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be included. Although not illustrated in the drawing, the plurality of battery cells (100) may include an electrode assembly, a cell case accommodating the electrode assembly, and electrode leads connected to the electrode assembly and extending outward from the cell case to function as electrode terminals. In this case, the plurality of battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0061] A plurality of battery cells (100) may be stacked in at least one direction. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be arranged in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and in a parallel manner in the front-back direction (X-axis direction). Accordingly, by stacking a plurality of battery cells (100) face-to-face, it may be an efficient structure for increasing energy density. In addition, when the battery cells (100) are arranged in this manner, it is easy to control the venting direction to one side.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the battery cell (100) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The cell case (110) of such a pouch-type secondary battery may be configured in a pouch shape in which a metal layer made of aluminum is interposed between polymer layers.

[0063] For example, a battery cell (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be a roughly rectangular plate-shaped cell having a long side in the direction along the X-axis of FIG. 3, a short side in the direction along the Z-axis, and a thickness smaller than the X-axis or Z-axis "sleeve*" length in the Y-axis direction of FIG. 3. At this time, an electrode lead (120) may be formed on the short side of the battery cell (100) (the Y-axis direction of FIG. 3).

[0064] The cell case (110) of the battery cell (100) can accommodate the electrode assembly in the receiving portion (111), and the edge around the receiving portion (111) can be heat-sealed to form a sealing portion (112). The sealing portion (112) can be provided on three of the four sides of the battery cell (100). For example, in each battery cell (100), the sealing portion (112) can face the front-back direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 3) and the upper direction (+Z-axis direction in FIG. 3) of the battery cell (100) except for the upper direction in which the sheet is folded, and the receiving portion (111) can face the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0065] In addition, the battery cell (100) may include a folding portion (113) that is provided to be folded on one side of the sealing portion (112) where the electrode lead (120) does not protrude. That is, the folding portion (113) may be included on the side of the sealing portion (112) where the electrode lead (120) is not provided.

[0066] Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the battery cell (100), and various battery cells (100) known at the time of filing of the present invention may be employed to construct the battery pack (1) of the present invention. In this 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 (100).

[0067] These multiple battery cells (100) can be modularized into one or more battery modules (10). That is, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention includes multiple battery modules (10), and the multiple battery cells (100) included in the battery pack (1) can be divided and included in multiple battery modules (10). At this time, multiple battery cells (100) included in the battery module (10) can be electrically connected to each other.

[0068] The pack case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The pack case (200) may be provided in a box shape including a plurality of frames. The pack case (200) may be made of a material that can ensure mechanical rigidity, such as a metal such as steel or SUS, or a plastic, or may include such a material, in order to safely protect the battery cells (100) accommodated therein.

[0069] Additionally, a first venting channel (V1) and a second venting channel (V2) may be formed in the pack case (200). The first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may refer to passages through which venting gas or the like flows. The first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) to flow in and out.

[0070] These first venting channels (V1) and second venting channels (V2) may be provided on both sides of the plurality of battery cells (100). That is, the first venting channel (V1) may be provided on one side of the plurality of battery cells (100), and the second venting channel (V2) may be provided on the other side of the plurality of battery cells (100). The first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be configured to face the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0071] The first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be configured to extend in at least one direction. In addition, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be configured to face each other symmetrically.

[0072] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas, etc. generated in the battery cell (100) can be directly introduced and flowed into the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). In this way, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention can discharge the venting gas in both directions of the battery cell (100) when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (100) and high-temperature gas or flame, etc. is generated. Accordingly, the high-temperature gas or flame, etc. can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1) through the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2), thereby minimizing heat transfer to other battery cells (100).

[0073]

[0074] In particular, referring to FIG. 4, the first venting channel (V1) may be provided at the bottom of the plurality of battery cells (100), and the second venting channel (V2) may be provided at the top of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0075] Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), the venting gas can move directly to the first venting channel (V1) located at the bottom and the second venting channel (V2) located at the top. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when high-temperature gas or flames are emitted from the battery cell (100) in a situation such as thermal runaway, the venting gas can be quickly discharged in both directions of the battery cell (100). As a result, the safety of the battery pack (1) can be enhanced.

[0076] Meanwhile, the battery cell (100) may be induced to vent in the direction in which the folding portion (113) is positioned. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the battery cell (100) may be provided in an upright state with the folding portion (113) facing upward. In the embodiment of FIG. 4 and the like, the folding portion (113) is illustrated facing upward, but unlike the above embodiment, the battery cell (100) may be arranged such that the folding portion (113) faces downward.

[0077] As in the present invention, when the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) are positioned at the upper and lower portions of the battery cell (100), the venting gas discharged when the folding part (113) is unfolded when the internal pressure of the battery cell (100) increases can be directly discharged through the first venting channel (V1) or the second venting channel (V2), regardless of the arrangement direction of the folding part (113).

[0078] For example, referring to FIG. 4, when the battery cell (100) of the present invention is provided as a pouch-type battery cell, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be provided for each of two battery cells (100), and the two battery cells (100) may be configured to face each other. That is, the folding parts (113) of the two battery cells (100) may also be configured to face each other. At this time, the folding parts (113) may be provided in the second venting channel (V2). As an example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the folding parts (113) may be configured to be accommodated inside the second venting channel (V2). Alternatively, the folding portion (113) may be configured to be folded toward the second venting channel (V2) and unfolded when the internal pressure of the battery cell (100) increases to be positioned inside the second venting channel (V2).

[0079]

[0080] In addition, referring to FIG. 4, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may each form a plurality of groups. Specifically, the plurality of first venting channels (V1) may form a first group (VG1) at the bottom of the battery cell (100), and the plurality of second venting channels (V2) may form a second group (VG2) at the top of the battery cell (100). The first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) grouped in this way may be provided in plurality. That is, the first group (VG1) and the second group (VG2) may each be provided in plurality.

[0081] These plurality of first groups (VG1) and second groups (VG2) may be provided for each battery module (10). That is, the first group (VG1) and the second group (VG2) may be provided for each battery module (10).

[0082] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) are grouped and provided in each battery module (10), gas generated in any battery module (10) can independently move to the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas is suppressed from moving toward the battery cells (100) provided in other battery modules (10), so that the other battery modules (10) can be prevented from receiving thermal damage as much as possible. Accordingly, the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery pack (1) can be prevented or suppressed, so that the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1) can be guaranteed.

[0083]

[0084] In addition, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be provided corresponding to at least some of the plurality of battery cells (100), respectively. The first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be configured to be individually connected to at least some of the plurality of battery cells (100), respectively. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be provided for each of two battery cells (100), respectively. Accordingly, the venting gas discharged from any battery cell (100) may be prevented from moving to other first venting channels (V1) and second venting channels (V2).

[0085] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas is prevented from flowing toward other battery cells (100) by the first venting channel (V1) provided for each battery cell (100), thereby minimizing thermal damage to the other battery cells (100). Accordingly, the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery pack (1) is prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1).

[0086]

[0087] Hereinafter, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0088] FIG. 5 is an internal perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a first venting channel. In addition, FIG. 6 is a lower perspective view of an upper frame of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a second venting channel.

[0089] More specifically, referring to FIG. 5, a plurality of first ribs (R1) may be formed in the pack case (200), and a first venting channel (V1) may be formed by the plurality of first ribs (R1) that are spaced apart from each other. That is, the first venting channel (V1) may be defined as a space between two adjacent first ribs (R1), and may provide a predetermined space through which a venting gas flows. At this time, the first rib (R1) may be configured to extend long in at least one direction.

[0090] In particular, a plurality of first ribs (R1) may be formed on the lower surface of the pack case (200). A plurality of battery cells (100) may be configured to be seated on the plurality of first ribs (R1). That is, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be accommodated inside the pack case (200) while being supported by the first ribs (R1).

[0091] Likewise, referring to FIG. 6, the second venting channel (V2) may be formed by a plurality of second ribs (R2). In particular, the plurality of second ribs (R2) may be formed on the upper surface of the pack case (200). The plurality of second ribs (R2) may be configured to be mounted on a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0092] In general, when gas is emitted from a battery cell (100), pieces of electrode plates or active materials inside the battery cell (100) may be emitted to the outside in a high-temperature state, and these high-temperature particles may appear in the form of sparks. The battery pack (1) according to the present invention prevents high-temperature particles from easily escaping directly to the outside of the battery pack (1) even when they are emitted from the battery cell (100), and allows them to escape by sufficiently lowering the temperature while moving through the space between the first rib (R1) and / or the second rib (R2), thereby preventing them from acting as a source of ignition outside the battery pack (1).

[0093]

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (100). The first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be configured in a straight line shape. In particular, the battery cell (100) is provided in a pouch shape, and the length of the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may be configured to correspond to the length of the battery cell (100).

[0095] The first rib (R1) and the first venting channel (V1) can be formed as the pack case (200) is extruded. As the pack case (200) is extruded, the first rib (R1) can be formed to extend in one direction (X-axis direction) along the extrusion direction of the pack case (200). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the first rib (R1) is integrally provided with the pack case (200), the process of joining the first rib (R1) to the pack case (200) is unnecessary, and since there is no defect at the joining portion, the possibility of the venting gas spreading to another first venting channel (V1) can be further reduced. Meanwhile, the second rib (R2) and the second venting channel (V2) are also as described above.

[0096] In addition, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may each be provided in multiple numbers. These multiple first venting channels (V1) and multiple second venting channels (V2) may each be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cell (100). In addition, the multiple first venting channels (V1) and the multiple second venting channels (V2) may each be arranged parallel to each other.

[0097] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) that extend long in one direction are spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction of the battery cells (100), when a thermal event occurs in a certain battery cell (100), the venting gas flowing into the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) can be further suppressed from going beyond the rib (R) to the other first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). In addition, the venting gas flowing in the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) can be prevented from spreading in all directions, and can quickly move to the outside along the extending direction of the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2).

[0098]

[0099] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above. For example, Fig. 7 may be a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' of Fig. 1. In addition, Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 8 may be a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' of Fig. 1.

[0100] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 7, the pack case (200) may include a base frame (210) and a plurality of side frames (220).

[0101] The base frame (210) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The base frame (210) may form the lower surface of the pack case (200) and may be provided in a square plate shape. In addition, the base frame (210) may be provided with a flat upper surface so that the battery cells (100) or battery modules (10) may be stably accommodated.

[0102] A plurality of side frames (220) may be provided to extend upward from each corner of the base frame (210). The plurality of side frames (220) may be provided to surround a plurality of battery cells (100). More specifically, the plurality of side frames (220) may be provided as a right wall located at the +X direction side end of the base frame (210), a rear wall located at the +Y direction side end, a left wall located at the -X direction side end, and a front wall located at the -Y direction side end, respectively, to form a side surface of the pack case (200).

[0103] Additionally, the pack case (200) may include a cross beam (230). The cross beam (230) may be configured to partition the internal space of the pack case (200). The cross beam (230) may be configured to partition a plurality of battery cells (100) or a plurality of battery modules (10). The cross beam (230) may be configured to extend along the left-right direction and / or the front-back direction of the pack case (200).

[0104] A plurality of cross beams (230) may be provided. The cross beams (230) may be provided to connect the side frames (220) facing each other among a plurality of side frames (220). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of battery modules (10) may be arranged in four rows and two columns by the cross beams (230).

[0105] Meanwhile, the pack case (200) may further include a cover frame (240). The cover frame (240) may be configured to cover the upper portions of the plurality of battery cells (100). The cover frame (240) may be provided to form the upper surface of the pack case (200). The cover frame (240) may be coupled to the side frame (220). Alternatively, the cover frame (240) may be provided integrally with the side frame (220).

[0106]

[0107] Meanwhile, a third venting channel (V3) may be formed in the pack case (200). The third venting channel (V3) may be provided in a hollow structure inside the pack case (200). That is, the third venting channel (V3) may be defined as a hollow structure formed in one of the frames of the pack case (200). The third venting channel (V3) may be configured to be connected to the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). In addition, the third venting channel (V3) may be configured to be in communication with the outside of the pack case (200).

[0108] As a more specific example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first venting channel (V1) may be formed in the internal space of the base frame (210), and the second venting channel (V2) may be formed in the internal space of the cover frame (240). In addition, the third venting channel (V3) may be formed in the internal space of the side frame (220). The third venting channel (V3) may be formed in all four walls of the side frame (220).

[0109] Accordingly, as shown by the bold arrows in FIGS. 7 and 8, the venting gas generated from the battery cell (100) can move to the first venting channel (V1) formed in the base frame (210) and the second venting channel (V2) formed in the cover frame (240), and then to the third venting channel (V3) formed in the side frame (220). This venting gas can be discharged to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0110] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 7, the pack case (200) may include a venting device (250).

[0111] The venting device (250) may be configured to discharge gas generated from the battery cell (100) to the outside of the pack case (200). When venting gas is generated inside the pack case (200) and the internal pressure increases, the venting device (250) may be configured to open due to the pressure of the venting gas and discharge the venting gas to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0112] The venting device (250) may be configured to open and close depending on the internal pressure within the pack case (200). Alternatively, the venting device (250) may be configured in the form of a hole. Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of the venting device (250), and various venting devices (250) known at the time of filing of the present invention may be employed to configure the battery pack (1) of the present invention.

[0113] Specifically, the venting device (250) may be provided on the side of the pack case (200), i.e., on the side frame (220). A plurality of venting devices (250) may be provided. The venting device (250) may be provided on at least one side frame (220) among a plurality of side frames (220). The venting device (250) may be separately formed on two or more side frames (220), or two or more may be formed on one side frame (220).

[0114] Meanwhile, the number or location of the venting device (250) described based on the embodiment of FIG. 7 is merely an example, and it is obvious that the number or location may be changed to various other numbers or locations.

[0115] The venting device (250) may be provided to communicate with a third venting channel (V3) formed in the side frame (220). As a result, the venting gas of the third venting channel (V3) may be configured to be discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting device (250).

[0116]

[0117] And, FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of the inside of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining a communication hole.

[0118] And, in order to connect the first venting channel (V1), the second venting channel (V2), and the third venting channel (V3), the pack case (200) may be formed with a communication hole (H). The communication hole (H) may be configured to communicate the first venting channel (V1), the second venting channel (V2), and the third venting channel (V3) with each other. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the communication hole (H) may be provided between the first venting channel (V1) and the third venting channel (V3). In addition, the communication hole (H) may be provided between the second venting channel (V2) and the third venting channel (V3). That is, the communication hole (H) may be provided between the base frame (210) and the side frame (220) and between the cover frame (240) and the side frame (220).

[0119] Referring to Fig. 9, a communication hole (H) may be provided on the inner surface of the side frame (220). The communication hole (H) may be provided on the surface of the side frame (220) facing the battery cell (100) or the battery module (10). The communication hole (H) may be formed by being surrounded by two adjacent ribs (R) and the side frame (220).

[0120] A plurality of communication holes (H) may be provided. For example, a plurality of communication holes (H) may be provided along the arrangement direction of the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). Furthermore, a plurality of communication holes (H) may be individually provided for each of the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). In other words, the communication holes (H) may be provided to correspond one-to-one with the plurality of first venting channels (V1) and the second venting channels (V2). The communication holes (H) may be provided at each portion where the plurality of first venting channels (V1) and the second venting channels (V2) are connected to the side frame (220).

[0121] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas generated from a single battery cell (100) can flow into the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) connected to the battery cell (100) and move to the third venting channel (V3) through the communication hole (H) connected to the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). Accordingly, the possibility of the venting gas spreading to other first venting channels (V1) and second venting channels (V2) can be extremely reduced due to the ribs (R) defining the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2).

[0122]

[0123] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 10 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0124] Meanwhile, a fourth venting channel (V4) may be formed in the pack case (200). The fourth venting channel (V4) may be provided in a hollow structure inside the pack case (200). That is, the fourth venting channel (V4) may be defined as a hollow formed in any one of the frames of the pack case (200). The fourth venting channel (V4) may be configured to communicate with the first venting channel (V1), the second venting channel (V2), and the third venting channel (V3). As a more specific example, as in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 7, 8, and 10, the fourth venting channel (V4) may be formed in the internal space of the cross beam (230).

[0125] Accordingly, as shown by the bold arrow in FIG. 7, the venting gas generated from the battery cell (100) may move to the first venting channel (V1) formed in the base frame (210) and the second venting channel (V2) formed in the cover frame (240), and then move to the third venting channel (V3) formed in the side frame (220) as well as the fourth venting channel (V4) formed in the cross beam (230).

[0126] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas, etc. discharged from a battery cell (100) or battery module (10) in contact with a cross beam (230) can move directly to the fourth venting channel (V4) formed in the cross beam (230), so that the venting gas, etc. can be discharged more quickly to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0127] At this time, the communication hole (H) may be configured to communicate the first venting channel (V1) and the fourth venting channel (V4) and the second venting channel (V2) and the fourth venting channel (V4) with each other. Although not shown in the drawing, the communication hole (H) may be provided between the first venting channel (V1) and the fourth venting channel (V4) and between the second venting channel (V2) and the fourth venting channel (V4). That is, the communication hole (H) may be provided between the base frame (210) and the cross beam (230) and between the cover frame (240) and the cross beam (230). That is, the communication hole (H) may be provided on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). In addition, the communication hole (H) may be provided on the outer surface of the cross beam (230).

[0128] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas generated from a battery cell (100) can flow into the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) connected to the battery cell (100) and move to the fourth venting channel (V4) through the communication hole (H) connected to the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2).

[0129] That is, the venting gas flows into the first venting channel (V1) located at the bottom of the battery cell (100) and the second venting channel (V2) located at the top, and the venting gas flowing through the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) can flow into the third venting channel (V3) and / or the fourth venting channel (V4) through the communication holes (H) provided on both sides (see the bold arrows in FIG. 7). Thereafter, the venting gas flowing through the fourth venting channel (V4) can move to the third venting channel (V3). This venting gas can be discharged to the outside of the pack case (200) through the venting device (250) communicating with the third venting channel (V3).

[0130] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting gas and the like can directly move to the third venting channel (V3) of the side frame (220) in which the venting device (250) is provided, the venting gas and the like can be quickly discharged to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0131]

[0132] Figure 11 is an enlarged drawing of part A of Figure 10, and is a drawing for explaining cooling fins.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 11, a cooling channel (C) may be formed in the pack case (200). The cooling channel (C) may refer to a passage configured to allow a cooling medium such as coolant to flow. The cooling channel (C) may be formed in the internal space of the pack case (200). Here, the internal space of the pack case (200) may refer to a predetermined space separately provided inside the pack case (200), or may refer to a hollow space formed in a plurality of beams or frames forming the pack case (200).

[0134] The cooling channel (C) may be configured such that a hollow space is formed within the frame of the pack case (200) so that a cooling medium can flow through the hollow space. Alternatively, the cooling channel (C) may be configured in the form of a pipe within the internal space of the frame of the pack case (200).

[0135] In particular, cooling channels (C) may be provided on both sides of a plurality of battery cells (100). The cooling channels (C) may include a first cooling channel (C1) provided on one side of the plurality of battery cells (100) and a second cooling channel (C2) provided on the other side of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0136] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the battery cell (100) or the battery module (10) can be cooled from both sides, the heat energy accumulation of the battery cell (100) can be minimized. In particular, the heat generation of the battery cell (100) due to the charge / discharge cycle in the normal state of the battery pack (1) can be minimized, thereby ensuring the cooling performance of the battery pack (1). In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the battery cell (100) is uniformly cooled from both sides, the temperature deviation within the battery cell (100) can be minimized.

[0137] The cooling channel (C) may be provided on at least one side of the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). In addition, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) and the cooling channel (C) may be configured to face each other. The cooling channel (C) may be provided in parallel with the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). The first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) may extend in one direction, and the cooling channel (C) may extend along one direction in which the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) extend. That is, the cooling channel (C) may be arranged in parallel with the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). In this way, the venting gas inside the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) can be configured to come into contact with the cooling channel (C).

[0138] For example, although not shown in the drawing, the cooling channel (C) may be arranged to overlap the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) in the horizontal direction. In this case, the cooling channel (C) may be provided between the plurality of first venting channels (V1) and the plurality of second venting channels (V2). Alternatively, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the cooling channel (C) may be arranged to overlap the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) in the vertical direction.

[0139] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell (100), heat such as venting gas or flame inside the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) can be more efficiently cooled by the cooling medium of the cooling channel (C).

[0140] Moreover, the cooling channel (C) may be provided outside the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2). That is, it may mean that the cooling channel (C) is provided outside the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) with respect to a certain battery cell (100).

[0141] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the first cooling channel (C1) may be located below the first venting channel (V1), and the second cooling channel (C2) may be located above the second venting channel (V2).

[0142] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) are arranged between the battery cell (100) and the cooling channel (C), the venting gas or flame, etc. generated in the battery cell (100) can quickly move to the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2), and at the same time be cooled by the cooling medium within the cooling channel (C). That is, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the heat of the venting gas, etc. discharged can be controlled more efficiently. As a result, the cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be secured.

[0143] The lower cooling channel (C1) may be arranged to vertically overlap with the first venting channel (V1). In addition, the first cooling channel (C1) may be arranged to vertically overlap with the second venting channel (V2). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the first cooling channel (C1) and the second cooling channel (C2) are provided for each of the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2), respectively, the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) provided on the side of the battery cell (100) where the thermal event occurs can be individually cooled. Accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the battery pack (1) can be improved.

[0144]

[0145] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 11, a battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include cooling fins (300). The cooling fins (300) may be provided between some of the battery cells (100) among the plurality of battery cells (100). In particular, the cooling fins (300) may be configured to partition between the plurality of battery cells (100). The cooling fins (300) may be configured to group the plurality of battery cells (100). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11, cooling fins (300) may be arranged between every two battery cells (100), thereby grouping the battery cells (100) in groups of two.

[0146] At least one cooling fin (300) may be included in one battery module (10). A plurality of cooling fins (300) may be provided along one direction in which the battery cells (100) are arranged. A plurality of cooling fins (300) may be arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells (100). In addition, the cooling fins (300) may be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cells (100).

[0147] The cooling fin (300) may be configured to cool heat generated when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100). The cooling fin (300) may be provided in contact with the battery cell (100). The battery cell (100) may generate heat during use. If this heat is not properly discharged, the performance of the battery cell (100) cannot be stably guaranteed, and in severe cases, it may lead to thermal runaway, ignition, explosion, etc. of the battery cell. In this respect, when heat is generated in the battery cell (100), the heat may be removed and cooled by the cooling fin (300).

[0148] To this end, the cooling fin (300) may be formed of a material with excellent cooling performance. Furthermore, the cooling fin (300) may be configured to maintain a sealed structure without deformation even under high temperatures and pressures. The cooling fin (300) may be formed of a pad thinner than the battery cell (100). For example, the cooling fin (300) may be formed of a material such as insulated SUS or aluminum.

[0149] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs in any battery cell (100) that is provided in contact with the cooling fin (300), the heat of the battery cell (100) is quickly cooled by the cooling fin (300), so that the cooling efficiency of the battery pack (1) can be maximized.

[0150] Meanwhile, the cooling fins (300) may be provided to extend upwards further than the battery cells (100). That is, the vertical height of the cooling fins (300) may be provided to be longer than the vertical height of the battery cells (100).

[0151] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (100), the movement of venting gas, flames, and / or particles to other groups of battery cells (100) can be suppressed. The propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells (100) can be effectively prevented or delayed. Accordingly, the safety and reliability of the battery module (10) can be guaranteed.

[0152] Furthermore, in order to improve the fixing force between the pack case (200) and the cooling fin (300), the cooling fin (300) may be configured such that its end is inserted into the pack case (200). In particular, the cooling fin (300) may be configured such that its end is inserted into a side surface where at least one of the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) of the pack case (200) is formed. For example, the lower end of the cooling fin (300) may be configured such that it is inserted into the first rib (R1) formed in the base frame (210). In addition, the upper end of the cooling fin (300) may be configured such that it is inserted into the second rib (R2) formed in the cover frame (240).

[0153] More specifically, referring to FIG. 11, the pack case (200) may be provided with a fixing groove (G) formed by at least a portion being sunken inward. The fixing groove (G) may be formed in the first rib (R1) and / or the second rib (R2). The cooling fin (300) may be provided by being inserted into the fixing groove (G). Accordingly, the upper and / or lower ends of the cooling fin (300) may be provided in close contact with the fixing groove (G) without a gap.

[0154] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cooling fin (300) can be inserted into the pack case (200) and supported on both sides, the fixing force between the cooling fin (300) and the pack case (200) can be further improved. Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the possibility that the cooling fin (300) will be pushed out by high-temperature, high-pressure venting gas or flame, or that the cooling fin (300) will be bent and deformed by the internal pressure of the venting gas, thereby separating the battery cell (100) and the cooling fin (300) can be reduced. As a result, the arrangement of the battery cell (100) and the cooling fin (300) can be stably maintained, thereby improving the cooling performance.

[0155] In addition, the sealing force between the end portion of the cooling fin (300) and the pack case (200) can be stably secured. Therefore, according to the above-described implementation configuration, the separation between the plurality of battery cells (100) can be more reliably achieved, and the heat transmission prevention performance between the battery cells (100) can be further improved.

[0156] Moreover, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the cooling fin (300) may be configured such that its end is interposed between the first venting channel (V1) and / or the second venting channel (V2). Furthermore, the cooling fin (300) may be configured such that its end is interposed between the first cooling channel (C1) and / or the second cooling channel (C2).

[0157] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting gas and the like within the venting channels (V1, V2) can be cooled not only by the cooling channel (C) but also by the cooling fins (300). Accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the battery pack (1) can be further improved.

[0158] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the ends of the cooling fins (300) can be configured to partition a plurality of first venting channels (V1) and / or second venting channels (V2). As a result, the partitions between the plurality of first venting channels (V1) and / or second venting channels (V2) can be more reliably separated, thereby further improving the heat transfer prevention performance between the battery cells (100).

[0159]

[0160] Figure 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 12, a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a thermally conductive adhesive (400). The thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be provided between the battery cell (100) and the pack case (200). In particular, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be provided on the side where the end of the cooling fin (300) is located. For example, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be provided on the inside of the fixing groove (G).

[0162] The thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be configured to transfer heat between the battery cell (100) and the pack case (200). In addition, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be configured to transfer heat between the cooling fin (300) and the pack case (200).

[0163] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) ensures good heat transfer between the battery cell (100) and the pack case (200) and between the cooling fin (300) and the pack case (200), so that heat generated from the battery cell (100) can be appropriately discharged to the outside through the pack case (200) and the cooling fin (300). Accordingly, the cooling performance for the battery module (10) can be stably secured.

[0164] The thermally conductive adhesive (400) may include a material capable of transmitting heat. In particular, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be made of a resin material, and in this case, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be referred to as a thermal resin. The thermally conductive adhesive (400) may include at least one of various materials, such as urethane, silicone, and epoxy. The thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be expressed by other terms such as TIM (Thermal Interface Material), potting resin, etc., and as the material of the thermally conductive adhesive (400) of the battery pack (10) according to the present invention, various thermally conductive adhesives or TIMs known at the time of filing of the present invention may be used.

[0165] The thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be interposed between all battery cells (100) provided in the battery module (10) and the pack case (200). That is, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be configured to be in direct contact with all battery cells (100) included in the battery module (10). According to this embodiment of the present invention, heat dissipation through the thermally conductive adhesive (400) can be achieved for all battery cells (100) included in the battery module (10). Accordingly, the overall cooling performance of the battery module (10) can be further improved.

[0166] In addition, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be configured to secure the battery cell (100) to the pack case (200). To this end, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) may include an adhesive component.

[0167] In addition, the thermally conductive adhesive (400) may be configured to fill the empty space between the battery cell (100) and the pack case (200). Since the receiving portion (111) of the battery cell (100) is not flat to correspond to the pack case (200), an empty space may be formed between the battery cell (100) and the pack case (200). However, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the thermally conductive adhesive (400) is interposed between the battery cell (100) and the pack case (200) to correspond to the shape of the receiving portion (111), heat can be more reliably transferred between the battery cell (100) and the pack case (200).

[0168]

[0169] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a cooling plate (500). The cooling plate (500) may be provided inside the pack case (200). The cooling plate (500) may be provided between the pack case (200) and the battery cell (100). The cooling plate (500) may be provided on the upper and lower portions of the battery cell (100).

[0171] A first venting channel (V1), a second venting channel (V2), and a cooling channel (C) may be formed in the cooling plate (500). That is, unlike the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 12, in the present embodiment, the first venting channel (V1), the second venting channel (V2), and the cooling channel (C) may be formed in the cooling plate (500) rather than in the pack case (200). In addition, the first rib (R1), the second rib (R2), and / or the fixing groove (G) described above may also be formed in the same manner in the cooling plate (500).

[0172] A plurality of cooling plates (500) may be provided for each battery module (10). The cooling plates (500) may be provided on the upper and lower sides of the battery cells (100) of each battery module (10). The cooling plates (500) may be provided in each battery module (10) accommodating space of the pack case (200). That is, the cooling plates (500) and the battery cells (100) may be configured in a modular manner.

[0173] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cooling plate (500), the battery module (10), and the pack case (200) can be manufactured separately and then simply assembled to achieve the venting structure of the battery cells (100), such as the first venting channel (V1), the second venting channel (V2), etc. Accordingly, the assembling ability is secured during the manufacturing of the battery pack (10), and cost and time are reduced, thereby improving productivity.

[0174]

[0175] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0176] Meanwhile, the battery module (10) included in the battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include a module case (11). The module case (11) may be configured to have an empty space formed therein and accommodate at least some of a plurality of battery cells (100) in the internal space. In particular, the module case (11) may be configured to accommodate the battery cells (100). That is, the module case (11) groups a plurality of battery cells (100) into a plurality of battery modules (10) and may serve as a boundary that physically limits the internal space of each battery module (10).

[0177] Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, the battery module (10) may include a busbar assembly and / or module terminals electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (100) housed therein.

[0178] Furthermore, the bottom and top surfaces of the module case (11) may be configured to be at least partially open. For example, although not shown in the drawing, venting holes may be formed in the top and bottom surfaces of the module case (11), respectively. The venting holes may be formed by penetrating the bottom surface of the module case (11). The venting holes may be configured to allow gas generated from the battery cells (100) housed inside the module case (11) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (11).

[0179] Alternatively, as in the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 15, the upper and lower surfaces of the module case (11) may be configured to be fully open. Accordingly, the module case (11) may be configured to cover four of the six sides of the plurality of battery cells (100), excluding the upper and lower surfaces. In this case, the module case (11) may be configured in a square shape when viewed from above.

[0180] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100) inside the module case (11) can be directly introduced into the first venting channel (V1) and the second venting channel (V2) provided at the upper and lower portions. Accordingly, venting gas or the like generated in the battery module (10) can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1), thereby ensuring safe venting performance of the battery pack (1).

[0181] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the upper surface and the bottom surface of the module case (11) do not exist, the battery cell (100) can directly face the cooling channel (C). In particular, the side of the battery cell (100) where the folding portion (113) is not provided can directly face the cooling channel (C). Accordingly, the cooling medium within the cooling channel (C) can directly cool the battery cell (100), so that efficient cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be secured.

[0182]

[0183] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0184] Referring to FIG. 17, 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. 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) may include a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheel vehicle. The vehicle (V) may operate by receiving power from a battery pack (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0185]

[0186] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations can be made within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims to be described below by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells; and A battery pack characterized by comprising a pack case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells, and having a first venting channel and a second venting channel formed on both sides of the plurality of battery cells so that a venting gas generated from the battery cells flows therein.

2. In paragraph 1, The first venting channel is provided at the bottom of the plurality of battery cells, A battery pack, characterized in that the second venting channel is provided on the upper portion of the plurality of battery cells.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that the first venting channel and the second venting channel each form a plurality of groups, and the grouped first venting channel and the second venting channel are provided in plurality.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery pack, characterized in that the first venting channel and the second venting channel are provided corresponding to at least some of the plurality of battery cells.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that the first venting channel and the second venting channel are configured in a shape that is sunken inward from the inner surface of the pack case.

6. In paragraph 1, A battery pack, characterized in that the first venting channel and the second venting channel are each configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell.

7. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that the first venting channel and the second venting channel are each provided in multiple numbers and arranged along the stacking direction of the battery cells.

8. In paragraph 1, The above pack case is A battery pack characterized in that a third venting channel is formed, which is provided with a hollow structure inside and is connected to the first venting channel and the second venting channel, and is configured to communicate with the outside of the pack case.

9. In paragraph 8, The above pack case is A base frame configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having the first venting channel formed in the internal space; A cover frame configured to cover the upper portion of the plurality of battery cells, and in which the second venting channel is formed in the internal space; A battery pack characterized by having a side frame extending upward from a corner of the base frame and having the third venting channel formed in the internal space.

10. In paragraph 8, The above pack case is A battery pack characterized by having a venting device configured to communicate with the third venting channel and discharge venting gas within the third venting channel to the outside.

11. In paragraph 8, The above pack case is A battery pack characterized in that it comprises a cross beam configured to group the plurality of battery cells and having a fourth venting channel formed in an internal space so as to be in communication with the first venting channel, the second venting channel, and the third venting channel.

12. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that the pack case is provided on both sides of the plurality of battery cells and has cooling channels formed therein so that a cooling medium flows.

13. In paragraph 12, The above cooling channel is A first cooling channel located at the bottom of the first venting channel, A battery pack characterized by comprising a second cooling channel positioned above the second venting channel.

14. In paragraph 12, A battery pack further comprising a cooling plate in which the first venting channel, the second venting channel, and the cooling channel are formed.

15. In paragraph 1, A battery pack further comprising cooling fins provided between some of the plurality of battery cells.

16. In paragraph 15, A battery pack characterized in that the cooling fin is configured such that an end thereof is inserted into a side surface where at least one of the first venting channel and the second venting channel of the pack case is formed.

17. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized by further comprising a plurality of module cases configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having upper and lower surfaces at least partially open.

18. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

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