Battery assembly

Abstract

A battery assembly is disclosed. A battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a frame providing a space therein and having an opening at the rear thereof; battery cells housed inside the frame; a rear-end cover coupled to the opening and provided with venting holes; and a venting channel having a body providing a space therein, an in-flow hole provided in the body and in communication with the venting holes, and a discharge hole provided in the body and allowing opening and closing.

Description

Battery assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery assembly.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0084812, filed on June 27, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] As demand for portable electronic devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and smartwatches increases significantly and electric vehicles become increasingly widespread, research is actively being conducted on the batteries used in these devices, especially secondary batteries that can be repeatedly charged and discharged.

[0004] Currently commercialized secondary batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Among these, lithium secondary batteries are receiving attention for their advantages of being able to charge and discharge freely, having a very low self-discharge rate, and having a high energy density, as they have almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries.

[0005] These lithium secondary batteries primarily use lithium oxide and carbon materials as the positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. Lithium secondary batteries comprise an electrode assembly comprising positive and negative plates coated with the positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively, with a separator interposed between them, and an outer case, i.e., a battery case, that seals and encloses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

[0006] In general, lithium secondary batteries can be classified into can-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is built into a metal can and pouch-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is built into a pouch of an aluminum laminate sheet, depending on the shape of the outer packaging material.

[0007] Recently, secondary batteries are widely used for power and energy storage not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium- to large-sized devices such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS). Multiple secondary batteries can be electrically connected and housed within a module case to form a single battery module. Each secondary battery within a battery module can be referred to as a battery cell. Furthermore, multiple such battery modules can be connected to form a single battery pack.

[0008] However, when a battery pack contains multiple battery modules, each of which contains multiple battery cells, it may be vulnerable to a thermal chain reaction between battery modules or between battery cells. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery module, the propagation of this thermal runaway to other battery modules or cells must be prevented. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules or cells is not properly prevented, an event occurring in a specific battery module or battery cell may trigger a chain reaction of thermal reactions in other battery modules or cells, potentially causing an explosion or fire, or potentially increasing its scale.

[0009] In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery module, gas or flames may be randomly discharged to the outside. If the discharge of gas or flames is not properly controlled, there is a risk that the gas or flames may be discharged toward other battery modules, causing a thermal chain reaction in the other battery modules. In particular, the front side of the battery module may have module terminals, which may be configured to electrically connect to other battery modules or battery packs, such as module bus bars. Therefore, if flames are discharged toward the front side of such a battery module, the module terminals may be damaged within the battery pack, causing an electrical short. Furthermore, since other battery modules may be present at the front side of the battery module, if flames are discharged toward the front side of a specific battery module, the discharged flames may easily spread to other battery modules, potentially causing a fire to spread between battery modules.

[0010] Failure to properly control thermal transfer between battery modules or battery cells can lead to a sudden voltage drop in the battery module or battery pack. This can lead to a sudden shutdown of the device equipped with the battery module or battery pack, resulting in unexpected damage. For example, if a voltage drop in a battery pack occurs suddenly while an electric vehicle is in operation, there is no time to move the vehicle to a safe location.

[0011] Moreover, if thermal propagation between battery modules or cells fails to be properly controlled, resulting in a sudden fire or explosion, there is a high possibility of causing casualties. For example, if thermal runaway occurs in an electric vehicle, if a certain amount of time is not allowed for a full-blown fire to develop, occupants may not be able to escape safely.

[0012] Accordingly, the present invention has been created to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a battery assembly having an improved structure so as to appropriately control the discharge of flames and the like generated inside the battery assembly, and a battery pack or automobile including the same.

[0013] In addition, the present invention may aim to provide a structure capable of preventing the exterior of a battery pack from being damaged when a thermal event occurs.

[0014] Additionally, the present invention may aim to prevent flames or ignitable particles from being emitted outside of a battery assembly when a thermal event occurs.

[0015] In addition, the present invention may aim to provide a structure capable of suppressing heat transmission between battery assemblies.

[0016] However, the technical 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.

[0017] In order to achieve the above object, a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a frame providing a space therein and having an opening formed at the rear; a battery cell positioned inside the frame; a rear end cover coupled to the opening and having a venting hole; a body providing a space therein, an inlet hole formed in the body and communicating with the venting hole, and a venting channel formed in the body and configured to be openable and closable.

[0018] Additionally, the discharge hole may be formed on the upper surface of the body.

[0019] Additionally, the venting channel may include: a cover for opening and closing the discharge hole; and an elastic member for providing restoring force in the direction in which the cover is closed.

[0020] Additionally, the venting channel may further include a guide bar penetrating the cover and the elastic member.

[0021] Additionally, the venting channel may include a partition that divides the interior of the body in an up-down direction.

[0022] In addition, the partitions are provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple partitions can be arranged along the left and right directions.

[0023] In addition, the plurality of partitions may divide the space provided by the body into a plurality of venting spaces, and the inlet hole and the discharge hole may be provided in each of the plurality of venting spaces.

[0024] Additionally, the plurality of discharge holes can be configured to be independently openable and closable.

[0025] Additionally, the venting channel can be fastened to the rear end cover.

[0026] Additionally, the battery assembly may further include a power terminal protruding toward the front of the frame.

[0027] A battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a battery assembly of the present invention.

[0028] In addition, the battery pack further includes a case that provides a space therein and accommodates the battery assembly, the case including: a base plate on which the battery assembly is installed; and a side wall installed on the base plate, wherein the venting channel can be disposed between the rear end cover and the side wall.

[0029] A vehicle according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a battery assembly of the present invention.

[0030] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when gas or flame is generated inside a battery assembly, the discharge of such gas or flame can be appropriately controlled.

[0031] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, damage to the exterior of a battery pack can be prevented even if a thermal event occurs.

[0032] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the electrical safety of a battery assembly can be improved.

[0033] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, heat transmission between battery assemblies can be suppressed when a thermal event occurs.

[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 drawing showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery pack of Figure 1.

[0037] Figure 3 is a drawing showing the battery module of Figure 2.

[0038] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery module of Figure 3.

[0039] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of the configuration of Figure 4.

[0040] Figure 6 is a drawing showing the configuration of Figure 5 in a different direction.

[0041] Fig. 7 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 6.

[0042] Figure 8 is a drawing showing the venting channel of Figure 2.

[0043] Fig. 9 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line C-C' of Fig. 8.

[0044] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing the venting channel of Fig. 8 in a different direction.

[0045] Figures 11 and 12 are drawings showing the combination of the venting channel and the battery module of Figure 2.

[0046] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line B-B' of Fig. 1.

[0047] Figure 14 is a diagram showing changes in the configuration of Figure 13 when a thermal event occurs.

[0048] Fig. 15 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of Fig. 1.

[0049] Figure 16 is a diagram showing changes in the configuration of Figure 15 when a thermal event occurs.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are only the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention, and it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0052] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery pack of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a battery module (200) of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery module (200) of FIG. 3.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a frame (210). The frame (210) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The frame (210) may provide a space inside. The frame (210) may include a top plate, a bottom plate, and a pair of side plates. In addition, the frame (210) may have an open front and rear. Alternatively, the frame (210) may have an opening formed at the front. In addition, the frame (210) may have an opening formed at the rear.

[0054] A battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (220). The battery cell (220) may be accommodated inside the frame (210). The battery cell (220) may be provided in plurality. The plurality of battery cells (220) may be stacked along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The battery cell (220) may include a receiving portion (221) having an electrode assembly, a first sealing portion (222) protruding toward the front and rear sides of the receiving portion (221), and a second sealing portion (223) protruding toward the upper side of the receiving portion (221). In addition, the battery cell (220) may include an electrode lead (224) protruding toward the front and rear sides of the first sealing portion (222), respectively. Each battery cell (220) may extend along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The electrode lead (224) may protrude toward the front and rear of each battery cell (220).

[0055] The battery cell (220) may refer to a secondary battery. In particular, the battery cell (220) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. However, the shape of the battery cell (220) is not limited to a pouch shape, and may have various shapes, such as a cylindrical shape or a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The battery cell (220) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0056] A battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a rear end cover (242). The rear end cover (242) may be coupled to the rear of the frame (210). The rear end cover (242) may be coupled to an opening formed at the rear of the frame (210). The rear end cover (242) may include a third venting hole (242a).

[0057] A battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a venting channel (400). The venting channel (400) may include a body (410). The body (410) may form an exterior of the venting channel (400). The body (410) may provide a space therein. The venting channel (400) may have an inlet hole (411) formed in the body (410) and communicating with a third venting hole (242a). The third venting hole (242a) and the inlet hole (411) may be arranged to face each other. The venting channel (400) may have a discharge hole (412) formed in the body (410). The discharge hole (412) may be configured to be openable.

[0058] When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (220), venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) may be discharged through the third venting hole (242a). At this time, the venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) may collide with the body (410) of the venting channel (400). The ignitable particles (F) may fall downwards due to a decrease in energy after colliding with the body (410). As a result, the ignitable particles (F) may be prevented from being discharged to the outside of the venting channel (400). The venting gas (G) may decrease in energy after colliding with the body (410) and may move upwards. The discharge hole may be opened due to an increase in pressure inside the body (410). The venting gas (G) may be discharged to the outside of the venting channel (400) through the discharge hole (412). At this time, the energy of the venting gas (G) can be reduced, and damage to the battery assembly and adjacent components can be prevented by the venting gas (G). When the venting gas (G) is discharged from the venting channel (400), the internal pressure of the venting channel (400) can be reduced. When the internal pressure of the venting channel (400) is reduced, the discharge hole (412) can be closed. This can block the venting gas (G) from flowing into the venting channel (400). This can suppress the propagation of a thermal event.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a case (100). The case (100) may provide a space therein. The case (100) may include a base plate (110), a side wall (120), and a pack cover (150). The base plate (110) may have a square shape. The base plate (110) may have a flat shape. The base plate (110) may form the exterior of the battery pack. The base plate (110) may provide an internal space of the battery pack.

[0060] A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a pack cover (150). The pack cover (150) may have a square plate shape. The pack cover (150) may have a flat plate shape. The pack cover (150) may form the exterior of the battery pack. The pack cover (150) may cover the internal space of the battery pack.

[0061] A battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention may be positioned inside a case (100). The battery assembly may include a battery module (200). The battery assembly (200) may include a venting channel (400). A plurality of battery assemblies may be provided.

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a partition wall (300). The partition wall (300) may include a first partition wall (310) and a second partition wall (320). A plurality of partition walls (300) may be provided. The partition wall (300) may be installed, fastened, fixed, combined, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate (110). The partition wall (300) may partition the internal space of the battery pack. A battery module (200) or a battery cell (220) may be positioned in the space partitioned by the partition wall (300).

[0063] A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a venting device (500). The venting device (500) may be installed on a side wall (120). For example, the venting device (500) may be installed on a front side wall (120). For example, the venting device (500) may be a gas valve. The venting device (500) may open to discharge gas when the pressure inside the case (100) increases. In addition, the venting device (500) may block external air from flowing into the case (100). A plurality of venting devices (500) may be provided.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery module (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a pad (250). The pad (250) may be positioned between a plurality of battery cells (220). The pad (250) may be positioned between at least some of the battery cells (220) and / or on the periphery of the stack. For example, the pad (250) may be configured to be positioned between every four battery cells (220) stacked in the left-right direction.

[0065] The pad (250) may be formed of an elastic material to enable swelling absorption of the battery cell (220). For example, the pad (250) may be formed of a foam material such as polyurethane. Alternatively, the pad (250) may be formed of a material capable of blocking heat or flames. For example, the pad (250) may be formed of an insulating or fire-retardant material such as silicone or mica.

[0066] A battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a front busbar frame assembly (231). The front busbar frame assembly (231) may be provided at the front of a plurality of battery cells (220). The front busbar frame assembly (231) may be electrically connected to front-side electrode leads (224) of the plurality of battery cells (220).

[0067] A battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a rear busbar frame assembly (232). The rear busbar frame assembly (232) may be provided at the rear of a plurality of battery cells (220). The rear busbar frame assembly (232) may be electrically connected to rear-side electrode leads (224) of the plurality of battery cells (220).

[0068] A battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a front end cover (241). The front end cover (241) may be coupled to the front of the frame (210). The front end cover (241) may cover the front of the frame (210). The front end cover (241) may have a square shape.

[0069] A battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a rear end cover (242). The rear end cover (242) may be coupled to the rear of the frame (210). The rear end cover (242) may cover the rear of the frame (210). The rear end cover (242) may have a square shape.

[0070] A battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a front insulating cover (261). The front insulating cover (261) may be positioned between the front end cover (241) and the front busbar frame assembly (231). The front insulating cover (261) may electrically insulate the front busbar frame assembly (231) and the front end cover (241).

[0071] A battery module (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a rear insulating cover (262). The rear insulating cover (262) may be positioned between the rear end cover (242) and the rear busbar frame assembly (232). The rear insulating cover (262) may electrically insulate the rear busbar frame assembly (232) and the rear end cover (242).

[0072] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of the configuration of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a view showing the configuration of FIG. 5 in a different direction. Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, a rear busbar frame assembly (232) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a busbar frame (232a) and a busbar (232b). The busbar (232b) may be installed on the busbar frame (232a). The busbar (232b) may be electrically connected to the rear electrode leads (224) of a plurality of battery cells (220). The busbar (232b) may be provided in plurality. The plurality of busbars (232b) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. In addition, the busbar frame (232a) may be provided with a first venting hole (232c). The first venting hole (232c) may be a through hole. The first venting hole (232c) may face the first sealing portion (222) on the rear side of the battery cell (220). The first venting holes (232c) may be provided in multiple numbers. Some of the multiple first venting holes (232c) may be arranged between two adjacent bus bars (232b). Venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) generated inside the battery module (200) may be discharged to the rear of the battery module (200) through the first venting hole (232c).

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a power terminal (231a) protruding forward of a frame (210). The power terminal (231a) may be provided in a front busbar frame assembly (231). The power terminal (231a) may protrude from the front busbar assembly (231). The power terminals (231a) may be provided in pairs. The power terminals (231a) may be exposed to the outside of the battery module (200).

[0074] The power terminal (231a) can be electrically connected to the power terminal (231a) of the neighboring battery module (200). The inter-bus bar (600) can electrically connect the neighboring battery modules (200).

[0075] The front side of the battery module (200) may be configured with major components such as a power terminal (231a), a control terminal, and an inter-bus bar (600). By discharging venting gas (G) and flammable particles (F) to the rear side of the battery module (200), damage to the front side of the battery module (200) can be minimized. By minimizing damage to the front side of the battery module (200), thermal event propagation to neighboring battery modules (200) can be suppressed.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, a rear insulating cover (262) of a battery module (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a second venting hole (262a). The second venting hole (262a) may be a through hole. The second venting hole (262a) may face the rear busbar frame assembly (232) or the first venting hole (232c). In addition, the second venting hole (262a) may be in communication with the first venting hole (232c). A plurality of second venting holes (262a) may be provided. A plurality of second venting holes (262a) may be in communication with a plurality of first venting holes (232c).

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, a battery module (200) of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a fire-resistant sheet (270). The fire-resistant sheet (270) may include a material having high heat resistance or fire resistance. The fire-resistant sheet (270) may be positioned on the inner side of the rear end cover (242). In addition, the fire-resistant sheet (270) may be positioned between the rear end cover (242) and the rear insulating cover (262). In addition, the fire-resistant sheet (270) may be fixed between the rear end cover (242) and the rear insulating cover (262).

[0078] The refractory sheet (270) may be positioned between the third venting hole (242a) and the second venting hole (262a). The refractory sheet (270) may cover a plurality of third venting holes (242a) and a plurality of second venting holes (262a).

[0079] When a thermal event occurs, the internal pressure of the frame (210) may increase due to the venting gas (G) and the ignitable particles (F). This may cause a portion of the refractory sheet (270) to rupture. In addition, due to the rupture of the refractory sheet (270), some of the second venting holes (262a) and some of the third venting holes (242a) may be connected, and the venting gas (G) and the ignitable particles (F) may be discharged. In addition, the unruptured portion of the refractory sheet (270) may still cover the remaining second venting holes (262a) and the remaining third venting holes (242a). This may prevent the venting gas (G) and the ignitable particles (F) discharged to the outside of the battery module (200) from flowing into the inside of the battery module (200).

[0080] Fig. 7 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 6. Referring to Fig. 7, a refractory sheet (270) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a separation line (271). The separation line (271, score line) may be used as a term including and collectively referring to a perforated line (271), a notching line (271), a cutting line (271), a shredding line (271), a tear line (271), or a separation line (271). The separation line (271) may be configured to be easily separated by pressure applied to the refractory sheet (270).

[0081] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing the venting channel (400) of Fig. 2. Fig. 9 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line C-C' of Fig. 8. Fig. 10 is a drawing showing the venting channel (400) of Fig. 8 in a different direction.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, a discharge hole (412) may be formed on the upper surface of the body (410). Venting gas (G) introduced into the body (410) through the inlet hole (411) may collide with the body (410). By forming the discharge hole (412) on the upper surface of the body (410), the venting gas (G) with reduced energy may be discharged to the outside of the venting channel (400). Inflammable particles (F) introduced into the body (410) through the inlet hole (411) may collide with the body (410). By forming the discharge hole (412) on the upper surface of the body (410), the inflammable particles may fall down after colliding with the body (410).

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the venting channel (400) may include a cover (440). The cover (440) may open and close the exhaust hole (412). The venting channel (400) may include an elastic member (460). The elastic member (460) may provide a restoring force in the direction in which the cover (440) closes. When the internal pressure of the venting channel (400) increases, the cover (440) may open the exhaust hole (412). When the internal pressure of the venting channel (400) becomes greater than the restoring force provided by the elastic member (460), the exhaust hole (412) may be opened. When the internal pressure of the venting channel (400) decreases, the cover (440) may close the exhaust hole (412) by the restoring force provided by the elastic member (460). When the venting gas (G) is discharged to the outside of the venting channel (400) through the discharge hole (412), it can be blocked from flowing into the venting channel (400) through the discharge hole (412).

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the venting channel (400) may include a guide bar (450). The guide bar (450) may penetrate the cover (440). The cover (440) may be configured to move along the guide bar (450). For example, the cover (440) may be configured to move in the Z-axis direction along the guide bar (450). When the cover (440) moves in the +Z-axis direction, the exhaust hole (412) may be opened. When the cover (440) moves in the -Z-axis direction, the exhaust hole (412) may be closed.

[0085] The guide bar (450) can penetrate the elastic member (460). At this time, the elastic member (460) may be a coil spring (460). The guide bar (450) can penetrate the coil spring (460).

[0086] The guide bar (450) may be formed at the top of the body (410). The guide bar (450) may be formed integrally with the body (410). Alternatively, the guide bar (450) may be joined, fastened, attached, or fixed to the top of the body (410).

[0087] The guide bar (450) may include a stopper (451). The stopper (451) may be formed at the top of the guide bar (450). The elastic member (460) may be compressed or tensioned between the stopper (451) and the cover (440). The elastic member (460) may provide a restoring force in the direction in which the cover (440) closes. Alternatively, the elastic member (460) may provide a restoring force in the -Z-axis direction.

[0088] As the pressure inside the body (410) increases, the cover (440) can move in the +Z-axis direction. Additionally, the elastic member (460) can be compressed. Additionally, the discharge hole (412) can be opened.

[0089] As the pressure inside the body (410) decreases, the cover (440) can move in the -Z-axis direction. In addition, the elastic member (460) can be restored. In addition, the discharge hole (412) can be closed.

[0090] When the venting gas (G) is discharged to the outside of the venting channel (400) through the discharge hole (412), it can be blocked from flowing into the venting channel (400) through the discharge hole (412).

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the venting channel (400) may include a partition (420). The partition (420) may partition the interior of the body (410). The partition (420) may extend in the vertical direction or along the Z-axis direction. In this case, each partitioned space may be referred to as a venting space (VS).

[0092] Due to the presence of multiple venting spaces (VS), the space through which venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) can propagate can be limited to a smaller area. This can further suppress the propagation of thermal events.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, a venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may have multiple partitions (420). The multiple partitions (420) may be arranged in the left-right direction or along the Y-axis direction.

[0094] A plurality of partitions (420) can divide the internal space of the body (410) into a plurality of venting spaces (VS).

[0095] Due to the presence of multiple venting spaces (VS), the space through which venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) can propagate can be restricted to a smaller extent. This can further suppress the propagation of thermal events.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, each venting space (VS) of a venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be provided with one or more inlet holes (411). Each venting space (VS) may be provided with one or more discharge holes (412). Each venting space (VS) may be provided with one or more covers (440).

[0097] The exhaust hole (412) of each venting space (VS) can be opened and closed independently. Since each venting space (VS) independently discharges the venting gas (G), even if one venting space (VS) discharges the venting gas (G), the cover (440) of the remaining venting space (VS) can keep the exhaust hole (412) closed. As a result, the propagation of thermal events can be more strongly suppressed.

[0098] FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are drawings showing the combination of the venting channel (400) and the battery module (200) of FIG. 2. Referring to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to the rear end cover (242). The venting channel (400) may have a fastening portion (430) that protrudes forward or in the +X-axis direction from the body (410). The fastening portion (430) may be formed integrally with the body (410). The fastening portion (430) and the rear end cover (242) may be fastened via a fastening member (S).

[0099] According to this configuration of the present invention, the venting channel (400) can be stably coupled to the rear end cover (242). As a result, even if venting gas (G) or flammable particles (F) are discharged, the venting channel (400) can be stably maintained in a state of being coupled to the battery module (200).

[0100] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration taken along the cutting line B-B' of Fig. 1. Fig. 14 is a drawing showing a change in the configuration of Fig. 13 when a thermal event occurs. Referring to Figs. 13 and 14, a venting channel (400) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be located between the side wall (120) and the battery module (200). In addition, the venting channel (400) may be located between the side wall (120) and the rear venting channel (400).

[0101] The battery assembly can be installed on the base plate (110). The battery module (200) can be installed on the base plate (110). The frame (210) can be installed on the base plate (110).

[0102] When a thermal event occurs, the venting gas (G) and the ignitable particles (F) can move backward or along the -X axis direction through the first venting hole (232c) and the second venting hole (262a). The venting gas (G) and the ignitable particles (F) can rupture the refractory sheet (270). And the venting gas (G) and the ignitable particles (F) can flow into the venting space (VS) through the ruptured portion of the refractory sheet (270) and the third venting hole (242a). The venting gas (G) and the ignitable particles (F) that flow into the venting space (VS) can collide with the body (410) and have their energy reduced. As a result, the venting gas (G) and the ignitable particles (F) can be prevented from flowing into the adjacent venting space (VS) or the battery module (200). Additionally, the unruptured portion of the refractory sheet (270) can more reliably block venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F) from entering the battery module (200).

[0103] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the side wall (120) forming the exterior of the battery pack may not be damaged by the venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F). Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs, the exterior of the battery pack may maintain its stable shape. Consequently, the ignitable particles (F) or flames may not be discharged to the exterior of the battery pack. Furthermore, the venting gas (G), with its energy reduced and its temperature lowered, may be discharged to the exterior of the battery pack through the venting device (500).

[0104] Fig. 15 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration taken along the cutting line A-A' of Fig. 1. Fig. 16 is a drawing showing a change in the configuration of Fig. 15 when a thermal event occurs. Referring to Figs. 1, 2, 15, and 16, the discharge hole (412) of the venting channel (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may face the pack cover (150).

[0105] According to this configuration of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs, the venting gas (G) with reduced energy in the venting space (VS) can move upward or along the +Z-axis direction through the discharge hole (412). In addition, the venting gas (G) can flow between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150) and be discharged to the outside of the battery pack through the venting device (500).

[0106] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the pack cover (150) forming the exterior of the battery pack may not be damaged by venting gas (G) and ignitable particles (F). Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs, the exterior of the battery pack can stably maintain its shape.

[0107] In addition, the battery pack according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery assembly, such as various battery pack components known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a BMS, a bus bar, a relay, a current sensor, etc.

[0108] The battery pack according to the present invention can be applied to automobiles such as electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles. Specifically, the automobile according to the present invention may include the battery assembly according to the present invention. Furthermore, the automobile according to the present invention may further include various other components, in addition to the battery assembly. For example, the automobile according to the present invention may further include a body, a motor, a control device such as an electronic control unit (ECU), and the like.

[0109] As described above, although the present invention has been described by 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 patent claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. A frame that provides space inside and has an opening formed at the rear; A battery cell positioned inside the above frame; A rear end cover coupled to the above opening and having a venting hole; A battery assembly comprising a body providing a space inside, an inlet hole formed in the body and communicating with the venting hole, and a venting channel formed in the body and configured to be openable and closable.

2. In paragraph 1, The above discharge hole is, A battery assembly formed on the upper surface of the above body.

3. In paragraph 1, The above venting channel: A cover for opening and closing the above discharge hole; and A battery assembly comprising an elastic member that provides restoring force in the direction in which the cover is closed.

4. In paragraph 3, The above venting channel is, A battery assembly further comprising a guide bar penetrating the cover and the elastic member.

5. In paragraph 1, The above venting channel is, A battery assembly including a partition dividing the interior of the body in an up-down direction.

6. In paragraph 5, The above partitions are provided in multiples, The above multiple partitions are, Battery assembly arranged along the left-right direction.

7. In paragraph 6, The above multiple partitions are, The space provided by the above body is divided into multiple venting spaces, The above inlet hole and the above outlet hole, A battery assembly provided in each of the plurality of venting spaces.

8. In paragraph 7, The above plurality of discharge holes are, A battery assembly configured to be independently openable.

9. In paragraph 1, The above venting channel is, A battery assembly attached to the above rear end cover.

10. In paragraph 1, A battery assembly further comprising a power terminal protruding forward of the frame.

11. A battery pack comprising a battery assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. In paragraph 11, Further comprising a case that provides space inside and accommodates the battery assembly, The above case is: A base plate on which the above battery assembly is installed; and Including a side wall installed on the above base plate, The above venting channel is, A battery pack placed between the rear end cover and the side wall.

13. A vehicle comprising a battery assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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