Battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery cells; and a pack case which accommodates the plurality of battery cells, and which has cross beams that partition the plurality of battery cells and have through holes through which venting gas generated from the battery cells can pass.

Description

Battery pack and vehicle including same

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

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0099335, filed on July 26, 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] Meanwhile, since battery cells undergo chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance can deteriorate if used in environments above their optimal temperature. Furthermore, if thermal control fails to maintain optimal temperatures, there's a constant risk of unexpected fire or explosion. Therefore, if a thermal event, such as thermal runaway, occurs within a battery pack containing multiple battery modules, the high-temperature gases or flames emitted from the battery cells could spread to adjacent battery modules, potentially triggering a chain reaction of battery module explosions, posing a significant risk.

[0007] Conventional battery packs incorporate venting devices to reduce internal pressure within the pack case when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell or battery module. However, venting gases or discharged substances are blocked by the cross beams that separate the battery cells or modules, making it difficult for them to travel directly to the venting devices. Consequently, heat accumulates within the pack case, particularly in the cross beams, accelerating thermal runaway.

[0008] Therefore, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, there is a need to develop a structure that can quickly move high-temperature gases or flames generated inside the battery module to a venting device to relieve heat accumulation inside the battery pack.

[0009] Therefore, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack with improved safety and reliability by quickly discharging high-temperature gas or flames to the outside when thermal runaway occurs in a battery module, thereby preventing or suppressing the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules.

[0010] In addition, another problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to provide a vehicle including such a battery pack.

[0011] 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.

[0012] To solve the above problem, the present invention provides a battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery cells; and a pack case that accommodates the plurality of battery cells and has a cross beam formed with a through hole configured to partition the plurality of battery cells and allow venting gas generated from the battery cells to pass through.

[0013] The above through hole can be formed at least at one end in the longitudinal direction of the cross beam.

[0014] The pack case surrounds the plurality of battery cells and has a side frame configured to be connected to at least one end of the cross beam, and the through hole can be formed on a side where the cross beam and the side frame are connected.

[0015] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a plurality of module cases configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells by grouping them, and having a venting hole formed on at least one side thereof to allow the venting gas to be discharged to the outside.

[0016] The above pack case may be provided with a venting device on at least one side and configured to discharge the venting gas to the outside.

[0017] The above through hole may be configured to allow the venting gas to travel across the cross beam toward the venting device.

[0018] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a cover member configured to cover the through hole and open and close the through hole.

[0019] The above cover member may be provided attached to the cross beam.

[0020] The above cover member may be configured to be openable in only one direction.

[0021] The above cover member may have an opening configured to be opened by being broken by the pressure of the venting gas.

[0022] The above cover member may be provided in the opening and may have a stopper to be caught on the cross beam when the opening is closed.

[0023] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell, venting gas can move within the pack case through a through-hole formed in the cross beam. Therefore, the venting gas can be quickly moved to another location, thereby reducing the time the venting gas remains on the battery cell side where the thermal event occurred.

[0025] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell, high-temperature gases or flames can be quickly discharged outside the battery pack, thereby alleviating heat buildup within the battery pack. This prevents or suppresses the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells within the battery pack, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0026] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell, the thermal energy received by adjacent battery cells can be minimized.

[0027] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell, it is possible to prevent high-temperature gas or flames discharged through a through hole from flowing back into the battery cell where thermal runaway occurred beyond the cross beam.

[0028] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, events resulting from thermal runaway of a battery pack or a device equipped with a battery pack, such as fire or explosion, can be prevented or delayed.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a through hole included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 4 is a front view of a cross beam included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above. For example, Fig. 8 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0039] FIG. 9 is a top view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining the direction of venting gas discharge during thermal runaway of a battery module.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack to which a cover member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0041] FIG. 11 is a front view of a cross beam included in a battery pack to which a cover member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0042] FIG. 12 is a front view of a cross beam included in a battery pack to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0043] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cross beam included in a battery pack to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied, showing a portion of the cover member being opened.

[0044] FIG. 14 is a view from above of a battery pack to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied, showing that a portion of the cover member is opened.

[0045] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a cross beam included in a battery pack to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 16 is a top view of a battery pack to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0047] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053]

[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a through hole included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell (100) and a pack case (200).

[0056] First, referring primarily to FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be included. In addition, the plurality of battery cells (100) may include an electrode assembly, a cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead that is connected to the electrode assembly and extends outward from the cell case to function as an electrode terminal. In this case, the plurality of battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0057] The battery cell (100) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The cell case 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.

[0058] 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).

[0059] A plurality of battery cells (100) can be arranged in a parallel manner in the front-back direction (X-axis direction) while standing in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0060] The above pack case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The pack case (200) may be formed with a plurality of accommodation spaces (S) configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells in a divided manner. The accommodation spaces (S) are empty spaces and may be provided in a shape capable of accommodating a certain number of divided battery cells (100) therein.

[0061] The pack case (200) may be made of a material that can ensure mechanical strength, such as metal or plastic, such as steel or SUS, or may include such a material, in order to safely protect the battery cells (100) contained therein.

[0062] Also, referring to FIG. 2, the pack case (200) may include a cross beam (210). The cross beam (210) may be provided between a plurality of battery cells (100). A plurality of cross beams (210) may be provided. The cross beam (210) may be configured to partition a plurality of receiving spaces (S). That is, the cross beam (210) may be configured to partition between battery cells (100) provided within receiving spaces (S) arranged in a plurality of rows and columns.

[0063] Meanwhile, if a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (100), the movement of venting gas, etc. may be impeded by the cross beam (210) provided between the battery cells (100). In this case, heat of the battery pack (1) may accumulate inside, accelerating thermal runaway between the battery cells (100).

[0064] To solve this problem, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may have a through hole (TH) formed in a cross beam (210). The through hole (TH) may be formed by penetrating the cross beam (210). The through hole (TH) may be configured to allow venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) to pass through. In addition, the through hole (TH) may be formed at approximately the center portion in the height direction of the cross beam (210).

[0065] Accordingly, as shown by the bold arrow in FIG. 3, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (100), the venting gas can move inside the pack case (200) through the through hole (TH) provided in the cross beam (210).

[0066] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell (100), the venting gas can be quickly moved to another location, thereby reducing the time that the venting gas remains on the side of the battery cell (100) where the thermal event occurred. In addition, heat accumulation near the cross beam (210) can be minimized. As a result, thermal runaway propagation between battery cells (100) within the battery pack (1) can be prevented or suppressed, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of the battery pack (1).

[0067]

[0068] FIG. 4 is a front view of a cross beam included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, a pack case (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a base frame (220) and a side frame (230).

[0070] The base frame (220) may form the lower surface of the pack case (200) and may be provided in a square plate shape. In addition, the base frame (220) may be configured such that a plurality of battery cells (100) are mounted on the upper surface. Furthermore, the base frame (220) may be provided with a flat upper surface so that a plurality of battery modules (10) are stably mounted thereon.

[0071] The side frame (230) may extend upward from each corner of the base frame (220). The side frame (230) may be provided with a plurality of unit walls to surround a plurality of battery cells (100) or battery modules (10). More specifically, the plurality of side frames (230) may be provided with a right wall located at the -X direction side end of the base frame (220), 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).

[0072] In addition, the pack case (200) may further include a center beam (240) that is provided to connect the side frames (230) facing each other among a plurality of side frames (230). For example, the center beam (240) may be configured to connect the front wall and the rear wall. The center beam (240) may be configured to extend long in the front-rear direction.

[0073] Meanwhile, the pack case (200) may further include a pack lead (250) coupled to the upper portion of the side frame (230). The pack lead (250) may be configured to form the upper surface of the pack case (200). The pack lead (250) may be configured to cover the upper portion of the battery cell (100).

[0074] The cross beam (210) may be configured to connect the center beam (240) and the side frame (230). For example, a plurality of cross beams (210) may be provided and arranged spaced apart from each other in the front-rear direction. In addition, the cross beam (210) may be configured to extend long in the left-right direction. Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the receiving space (S) may be arranged into four rows and two columns by the cross beams (210).

[0075] Meanwhile, the through hole (TH) may be formed at least on one end of the longitudinal direction of the cross beam (210). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the through hole (TH) may be formed on the outer side of the longitudinal direction of the cross beam (210).

[0076] In particular, the through hole (TH) may be formed on the side where the cross beam (210) and the side frame (230) are connected. That is, the through hole (TH) may be formed along the edge of the side frame (230). Accordingly, the venting gas may move along the side frame (230). In addition, the through hole (TH) may be positioned far from the center beam (240) in the cross beam (210).

[0077] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the through hole (TH) is formed on the outer side of the cross beam (210), i.e., on the side of the side frame (230), the venting gas can be suppressed from moving beyond the center beam (240) toward the other battery cell (100).

[0078]

[0079] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module included in a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be modularized into one or more battery modules (10). That is, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention includes a plurality of battery modules (10), and the plurality of battery cells (100) included in the battery pack (1) may be divided and included in a plurality of battery modules (10). At this time, the plurality of battery cells (100) included in the battery module (10) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0081] A plurality of battery modules (10) may be individually provided in each receiving space (S) of the pack case (200). The plurality of battery modules (10) may be separated into sections by cross beams (210). In particular, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention may include a module case (11).

[0082] 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, a plurality of module cases (11) may be provided. The module cases (11) may be configured to accommodate a battery cell (100) provided in each accommodation space (S).

[0083] That is, the module case (11) is provided for each receiving space (S), groups a plurality of battery cells (100) into a plurality of battery modules (10), and can serve as a boundary that physically limits the internal space of each battery module (10).

[0084] In addition, the battery module (10) may be provided with a module terminal (12) configured to be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (100). The module terminal (12) may include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. The module terminal (12) may be configured to be electrically or communicatively connected to a control device such as a BMS provided in the pack case (200). The module terminal (12) may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is exposed to the outside of the module case (11).

[0085] The module terminal (12) may be provided on the side from which the electrode lead of the battery cell (100) is drawn out. For example, the module terminal (12) may be provided on the front side of the module case (11).

[0086] Additionally, the battery module (10) may include a busbar assembly (13) configured to cover at least one side of a plurality of battery cells (100). The busbar assembly (13) may include a busbar frame and a plurality of busbars.

[0087] In addition, the battery module (10) may include a venting hole (VH). The venting hole (VH) may be configured to allow gas generated from a battery cell (100) housed inside the module case (11) to be discharged to the outside of the module case (11). That is, the venting hole (VH) may be provided in the module case (11) to enable directional venting in a specific direction.

[0088] These venting holes (VH) may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged along multiple columns and rows.

[0089] The venting hole (VH) may be formed on the opposite side of the side where the module terminal (12) is provided. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the module terminal (12) may be provided on the front side (+X-axis direction in FIGS. 6 and 7) of the module case (11), and the venting hole (VH) may be formed on the rear side (-X-axis direction in FIGS. 6 and 7) of the module case (11).

[0090]

[0091] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above. For example, Fig. 8 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

[0092] Meanwhile, the through hole (TH) may be provided on the side where the venting hole (VH) is formed.

[0093] Specifically, referring to FIG. 2, a plurality of battery modules (10) may be arranged so that their module terminals (12) face each other within the pack case (200). For example, some of the plurality of module cases (11) may be arranged so that their front faces face each other. That is, some of the plurality of module cases (11) may be arranged so that their rear faces face each other.

[0094] At this time, the venting hole (VH) may be formed on the rear surface of the module case (11), and the through hole (TH) may be formed on the side where the cross beam (210) and the side frame (230) are connected. That is, both the venting hole (VH) and the through hole (TH) may be provided toward the outside of the battery pack (1).

[0095] Accordingly, as indicated by the dotted arrows in FIG. 8, when thermal runaway of the battery module (10) occurs, venting gas, etc., may be discharged through the venting holes (VH) provided on the rear side of the battery module (10) (both left and right sides of the pack case (200)) and may flow in the space between the battery module (10) and the side frame (230). In addition, the venting gas, etc. discharged from the venting holes (VH) may move directly toward the through holes (TH). That is, the venting gas, etc. may pass through the through holes (TH) of the cross beam (210) and move to both front and rear sides of the pack case (200).

[0096] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting hole (VH) and the through hole (TH) are provided on the same side, thereby enabling the venting gas to move smoothly. Accordingly, the temperature of the battery cell (100) and / or the cross beam (210) can be prevented from continuously rising due to the heat island effect.

[0097] In addition, when the through hole (TH) is not provided, the venting gas can only move through the space between the battery module (10) and the pack lid (250), so that dust and other discharged substances can accumulate in the adjacent battery module (10) during movement, which can cause heat to be concentrated. However, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, a venting path for the venting gas and the like can be secured inside the battery pack (1). In addition, by guiding the venting path in the battery pack (1) to a specific path instead of dispersing it in various directions, unintended damage to other components can be prevented.

[0098] Moreover, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a plurality of battery modules (10) are arranged so that the module terminals (12) face each other, venting gas or flames discharged from the venting hole (VH) can be more effectively suppressed from heading toward the module terminal (12).

[0099]

[0100] FIG. 9 is a top view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a drawing for explaining the direction of venting gas discharge during thermal runaway of a battery module.

[0101] Meanwhile, the pack case (200) may be equipped with a venting device (260). The venting device (260) may be configured to discharge venting gas or flames generated in the battery module (10) to the outside of the pack case (200). The venting device (260) may be provided in the form of a hole penetrating between the inside and the outside of the pack case (200). Alternatively, the venting device (260) may be configured to be mountable in the hole of the pack case (200) and may be provided in the form of a venting device that is activated when exhaust is generated inside the pack case (200).

[0102] The venting device (260) may be provided on the side of the pack case (200), i.e., on the side frame (230). A plurality of venting devices (260) may be provided. The venting devices (260) may be located on at least some of the unit walls among the multiple unit walls of the side frame (230). In addition, the venting devices (260) may be separately formed on each of two or more unit walls, or two or more may be formed on one unit wall.

[0103] For example, referring to the bar illustrated in FIG. 9, a plurality of venting devices (260) may be provided on each of the front wall and the rear wall. In addition, a plurality of venting devices (260) may be provided symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the side frame (230).

[0104] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when the battery cell (100) is in an abnormal state, high-temperature gas or the like can be discharged in both directions of the pack case (200), so it is easy to discharge the gas more quickly to the outside of the pack case (200).

[0105] Meanwhile, the number or location of the venting device (260) described based on the embodiment of FIG. 9 is merely an example, and it is obvious that the number or location may be changed to various other numbers or locations.

[0106] The through hole (TH) can be configured to allow the venting gas to move across the cross beam (210) toward the venting device (260). That is, as the through hole (TH) is provided in the cross beam (210), the venting gas of the battery module (10) provided between the cross beams (210) can be guided to move toward the venting device (260).

[0107] More specifically, referring to FIG. 9, in a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a cross beam (210) may be arranged along the front-rear direction, and a venting device (260) may be provided on a front-rear direction side frame (230).

[0108] In addition, the venting device (260) may be configured to communicate with the space between the battery module (10) and the side frame (230). At this time, the venting gas or flame, etc. discharged from the battery module (10) may be guided to the venting device (260) along the direction in which the side frame (230) extends. That is, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 9, the venting gas, etc. discharged to the rear side of the battery module (10) through the venting hole (VH) may move to the space between the battery module (10) and the side frame (230), and then move to the venting device (260) beyond the cross beam (210) through the through hole (TH).

[0109] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the venting direction of the battery module (10) and the movement direction within the venting path within the battery pack (1) can be configured to be interconnected. Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in the battery module (10), the cover member (300) guides venting gas or flames, etc., toward the venting device (260), thereby allowing them to be more quickly discharged to the outside of the pack case (200). As a result, the internal pressure within the pack case (200) can be prevented from increasing.

[0110] In addition, during the process of venting gas or flames moving to the venting device (260), the venting gas or flames can be minimized from moving toward other battery modules (10) or module terminals (12). This prevents additional chain ignition of other battery modules (10).

[0111]

[0112] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack to which a cover member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied, and FIG. 11 is a front view of a cross beam included in a battery pack to which a cover member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a cover member (300). The cover member (300) may be configured to at least partially cover the through hole (TH). The cover member (300) may be configured to cover at least one side of the through hole (TH).

[0114] A cover member (300) may be provided attached to the cross beam (210). The cover member (300) may be attached to at least one side of the cross beam (210). The cover member (300) may be configured to be larger than the size of the through hole (TH).

[0115] The cover member (300) may be configured in a sheet shape. The thickness of the cover member (300) may be configured to be approximately 0.1 t. In addition, the cover member (300) may be prepared from a material having excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance, for example, SUS material.

[0116] Accordingly, the cover member (300) can maintain morphological stability without deformation even when high temperature heat is generated, and thus can stably block high temperature gases or flames generated from the battery cell (100).

[0117] The cover member (300) may be configured to be at least partially openable by venting gas or flame, etc. Specifically, at least a portion of the cover member (300) may be configured to be opened by the pressure of the venting gas directed toward the through hole (TH). The cover member (300) may be configured to be ruptured and opened. Alternatively, at least a portion of the cover member (300) may be configured to be completely separated from the cross beam (210). For example, if the cover member (300) is adhered to the cross beam (210) and a thermal event occurs in an adjacent battery module (10), the adherence may be released by the pressure or heat of the venting gas.

[0118] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a battery module (10), the cover member (300) is configured to open the through hole (TH) by venting gas or the like, so that the venting gas or the like can move through the through hole (TH). Accordingly, since the venting gas or flame or the like can be quickly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (1), heat accumulation inside the battery pack (1) can be eliminated.

[0119]

[0120] FIG. 12 is a front view of a cross beam included in a battery pack to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cross beam included in a battery pack to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a portion of the cover member being opened.

[0121] As an example, as in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, the cover member (300) may have an opening (310). The opening (310) may be at least a portion of the cover member (300). The opening (310) may be configured to cover the through hole (TH). In addition, the opening (310) may be configured to be openable by being broken by the pressure of the venting gas.

[0122] Additionally, the cover member (300) may have a cut line (L). The cut line (L) may be configured to form a border of the opening (310). The cut line (L) may be provided on a side away from the side frame (230). That is, the opening (310) may be opened toward the side away from the side frame (230).

[0123] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell (100), the cut line (L) may be ruptured, allowing the opening (310) to open to the outside of the cross beam (210). Accordingly, venting gas or the like may move beyond the cross beam (210) through the opened through hole (TH) (see the bold arrow in FIG. 13).

[0124] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the cut line (L) may be formed at a position corresponding to the through hole (TH). That is, the opening (310) may be configured to have a size corresponding to the through hole (TH). In addition, the cut line (L) may be configured to have a shape corresponding to the through hole (TH). The cut line (L) may be provided at least partially along the outer periphery of the through hole (TH).

[0125] As a more specific example, the cut line (L) may be provided along a vertical edge provided on the inner side of the through hole (TH). Furthermore, the cut line (L) may be provided along a portion of a horizontal edge of the through hole (TH). This allows the cut line (L) to be more easily ruptured, thereby allowing a greater amount of venting gas to be discharged through the through hole (TH). As another embodiment, the cut line (L) may be provided at least partially between the outer periphery of the through hole (TH) and the outermost edge of the cover member (300). That is, the opening (310) may be configured to be larger than the through hole (TH). In this case, at least a portion of the opening (310) may be configured to face the cross beam (210).

[0126] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when the opening (310) is closed, at least a portion of the opening (310) may be configured to be caught by the cross beam (210). When the through hole (TH) is opened and venting gas or flame, etc. are discharged outside the through hole (TH), the through hole (TH) may return to a closed state. In this case, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the opening (310) may be caught by the cross beam (210) so that the through hole (TH) may be maintained in a closed state. Accordingly, the venting gas or flame, etc. discharged outside through the open through hole (TH), may be fundamentally blocked from traveling back toward the battery module (10) where the thermal event occurred.

[0127]

[0128] FIG. 14 is a view from above of a battery pack to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied, showing that a portion of the cover member is opened.

[0129] In particular, the cover member (300) may be configured to be openable in only one direction. Specifically, the cover member (300) may be configured to be openable only in the direction in which the venting device (260) is provided.

[0130] That is, as indicated by the dotted arrow in FIG. 14, the cover member (300) can be configured to suppress venting gas or flames discharged through the through hole (TH) from moving back to the battery module (10) where the thermal event occurred when a thermal event occurs within the battery module (10).

[0131] Specifically, the cover member (300) opened by the pressure of the venting gas may be configured to close the through hole (TH) again after the venting gas passes through the through hole (TH). Accordingly, the venting gas or the like may be prevented from moving in a direction opposite to the venting induction direction.

[0132] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, directionality can be imparted to the flow of venting gas. In particular, the venting gas can be guided toward the venting device (260) to be quickly discharged to the outside of the pack case (200). Accordingly, thermal runaway within the battery pack (1) can be suppressed or delayed.

[0133]

[0134] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a cross beam included in a battery pack to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 16 is a view of a battery pack to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above. In particular, Fig. 16(a) is a view illustrating a case where the cover member (300) is open, and Fig. 16(b) is a view illustrating a case where the cover member (300) is closed to explain the function of the stopper (320).

[0135] As another example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, in order to further suppress the venting gas discharged from a battery module (10) from moving in a direction opposite to the venting induction direction, the cover member (300) may be provided with a stopper (320). The stopper (320) may be provided in the opening (310). The stopper (320) may be configured to be caught on the cross beam (210) when the opening (310) is closed. The stopper (320) may be configured to protrude outward from the opened portion of the opening (310).

[0136] Accordingly, the through hole (TH) provided on one side of the battery module (10) where the thermal event occurred can be opened, and the through hole (TH) provided on the other side can be maintained in a closed state without being opened.

[0137] In addition, when the through hole (TH) is opened and venting gas or flames, etc. are discharged outside the through hole (TH), and the through hole (TH) returns to a closed state, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the stopper (320) can be caught on the cross beam (210) to maintain the through hole (TH) in a closed state. Accordingly, the venting gas or flames, etc. discharged outside through the open through hole (TH), can be fundamentally blocked from traveling back toward the battery module (10) where the thermal event occurred.

[0138] That is, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when thermal runaway of the battery module (10) occurs as illustrated in FIG. 16(a), the venting gas or flame generated inside the battery module (10) can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10). In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 16(b), since the through hole (TH) is prevented from opening in the opposite direction by the stopper (320), the discharged venting gas or flame can be prevented from moving back into the battery module (10).

[0139] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to further induce the venting gas to move in one direction, particularly toward the venting device (260). Accordingly, the propagation of heat to neighboring battery cells (100) or battery modules (10) can be minimized, thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway.

[0140]

[0141] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 17, a vehicle (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (3) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (3) includes a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheel vehicle. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0143]

[0144] 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 that accommodates the plurality of battery cells and has a cross beam that has a through hole formed therein to partition the plurality of battery cells and allow venting gas generated from the battery cells to pass therethrough.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that the above through hole is formed at least at one end in the longitudinal direction of the cross beam.

3. In paragraph 1, The above pack case is A side frame is provided that surrounds the plurality of battery cells and is configured to be connected to at least one end of the cross beam, A battery pack characterized in that the above through hole is formed on the side where the cross beam and the side frame are connected.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that it further includes a plurality of module cases configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells by grouping them, and having a venting hole formed on at least one side thereof so that the venting gas is discharged to the outside.

5. In paragraph 1, The above pack case is A battery pack characterized by having a venting device provided on at least one side and configured to discharge the venting gas to the outside.

6. In paragraph 5, A battery pack characterized in that the through hole is configured to allow the venting gas to move across the cross beam toward the venting device.

7. In paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that it further includes a cover member that covers the above through hole and is configured to open and close the above through hole.

8. In paragraph 7, A battery pack characterized in that the cover member is attached to the cross beam.

9. In paragraph 7, A battery pack characterized in that the cover member is configured to be openable in only one direction.

10. In paragraph 7, The above cover member A battery pack characterized by having an opening configured to be ruptured and opened by the pressure of the venting gas.

11. In paragraph 10, The above cover member A battery pack characterized in that it has a stopper provided in the above opening so as to be caught by the cross beam when the above opening is closed.

12. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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