Battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module comprising: a plurality of battery cells; and a cover member configured to at least partially surround the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of battery cells and maintain the temperature in the battery cells to be uniform.

Description

Battery modules and battery packs and vehicles containing the same

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

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0099604, 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 batteries today include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Furthermore, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery module or pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery module or pack can vary depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] Meanwhile, when configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, a common method is 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. Furthermore, 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, the battery module includes cooling plates, such as thermal resin, to cool multiple battery cells. For example, cooling plates are provided on the lower surfaces of multiple battery cells.

[0007] In these cases, when charging a battery, there can be a significant temperature difference between the bottom of the battery cell, which contacts the cooling plate, and the top or electrode lead side of the battery cell, where current is applied. This means the temperature within the battery cell may not be uniform. This can lead to problems such as reduced battery cell performance or shortened battery life. Furthermore, charging times can be extended.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that can extend the expected life of a battery cell by minimizing the temperature deviation within the battery cell.

[0009] Accordingly, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module capable of maximizing the performance or lifespan of a battery cell by minimizing the temperature deviation within the battery cell, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the same.

[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, a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells; and a cover member configured to at least partially surround the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of battery cells and to uniformly maintain a temperature within the battery cells.

[0012] The device may further include a cooling plate provided on one side of the plurality of battery cells and configured to cool the plurality of battery cells, and the cover member may be configured to be in contact with the cooling plate.

[0013] The cover member may comprise a material capable of at least partially storing thermal energy.

[0014] The above cover member may include a textile material.

[0015] The above cover member may be configured to have two overlapping surfaces to cover both sides of the battery cell.

[0016] The battery cell may include a battery case including an electrode assembly, a receiving portion in which the electrode assembly is mounted, a sealing portion in which the outer periphery of the receiving portion is sealed, and an electrode lead electrically connected to the electrode assembly and protruding outward from the battery case, and the cover member may be configured to surround a side of the sealing portion from which the electrode lead protrudes.

[0017] The above cover member may be configured to at least partially surround the electrode lead.

[0018] The above cover member may have a venting portion configured to discharge venting gas generated in the battery cell to the outside.

[0019] The above-mentioned venting portion may be provided on the side of the folding portion that is configured to be bent on the side of the sealing portion of the battery cell from which the electrode lead does not protrude.

[0020] The above cover member may have a joint configured to suppress venting gas generated in the battery cell from being discharged to the outside.

[0021] The above-mentioned connecting portion may be provided on the electrode lead side of the battery cell.

[0022] The above cover member may be configured such that one sheet is folded to cover both sides of the battery cell.

[0023] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0024] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, a cover member configured to maintain a uniform temperature within a battery cell is provided, thereby minimizing temperature differences within the battery cell, thereby extending the expected lifespan of the battery cell. In particular, this aspect of the present invention can maximize the performance of the battery cell.

[0026] Additionally, according to one aspect of the present invention, a cover member capable of storing thermal energy is provided, thereby enabling heat to be transferred to the battery cells in low-temperature conditions of the battery module. Accordingly, performance degradation of the battery module in low-temperature conditions can be prevented.

[0027] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, when charging a battery in a low-temperature environment, heat can be transferred to the battery cells to reach the optimal charging temperature. This minimizes the charging time when charging a battery module.

[0028] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, heat can be circulated sustainably without the need for separate power or energy. This maximizes energy efficiency.

[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 module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

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

[0033] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Fig. 4 may be a drawing illustrating cross-section I-I' of Fig. 1.

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

[0036] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing that a thermal event has occurred in a battery cell to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0041] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a cover member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing that a thermal event has occurred in a battery cell to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0045] FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

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

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

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

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052]

[0053] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery cell included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 4 may be a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell (100) and a cover member (200).

[0055] Referring primarily to FIGS. 2 and 3, a battery cell (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be a lithium ion secondary battery. The battery cell (100) may include an electrode assembly (110) (including a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator), an electrolyte, and a cell case (120). The cell case (120) may be a laminate sheet including a resin layer and a metal layer.

[0056] A plurality of battery cells (100) may each be provided with an electrode lead (130). The electrode lead (130) may be connected to the electrode assembly (110) and configured to extend outward from the cell case (120).

[0057] The electrode leads (130) may be provided as a pair, and the pair of electrode leads (130) may be extended from both ends of the battery cell (100), i.e., in a longitudinal direction (±Y direction). At this time, the pair of electrode leads (130) may be a positive lead and a negative lead. If necessary, the battery cell (100) may have a form in which the two electrode leads (130) are positioned only at one end in the Y-axis direction, for example, only at the end in the +Y-axis direction.

[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 module (10) of the present invention. For example, the cell case (120) may be configured in a cylindrical or square shape.

[0059] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, a battery cell (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The battery cell (100) may have a long side in the direction along the Y-axis, a short side in the direction along the Z-axis, and a thickness in the X-axis direction that is smaller than the length of the Y-axis or Z-axis, thereby being an approximately rectangular plate-shaped cell. At this time, an electrode lead (130) may be formed on the short side (X-axis direction) of the battery cell (100).

[0060] At this time, the cell case (120) may include a storage portion (121) and a sealing portion (122). The storage portion (121) may be configured to store the electrode assembly (100). For example, the storage portion (121) has an internal space in which the surface facing the electrode assembly (100) is concave, and the electrode assembly (100) may be mounted in this internal space. The storage portion (121) may be filled with an electrolyte in the form of a liquid, solid, or gel, depending on the type of battery cell (100).

[0061] The sealing portion (122) may be provided by sealing the outer periphery of the storage portion (121). The sealing portion (122) may be located at three locations: on both short sides (X-axis direction) of the cell case (120) where the electrode leads (130) are located, and on one long side (+Y-axis direction) between them, excluding the side where the sheet is folded.

[0062] Meanwhile, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be included. The plurality of battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other. For example, the plurality of battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other in series and / or in parallel via a bus bar or the like.

[0063] A plurality of battery cells (100) may be included in a battery module (10) in a stacked form. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, etc., a plurality of battery cells (100) may be arranged in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and in a parallel manner in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). At this time, each battery cell (100) may have a sealing portion (122) facing the front-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the upper direction (+Z-axis direction), and a receiving portion (121) facing the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0064] The above cover member (200) may be configured to at least partially surround the outer surface of the battery cell (100). The cover member (200) may be configured to be in surface contact with the battery cell (100).

[0065] More specifically, the cover member (200) may be formed of a flexible material. Accordingly, the cover member (200) may be configured to surround the outer surface of the battery cell (100) according to the shape of the battery cell (100). In addition, the cover member (200) may have a very thin thickness. For example, the cover member (200) may be formed to have a thickness of 0.5 mm or less.

[0066] This cover member (200) may be configured to uniformly maintain the temperature within the battery cell (100). Specifically, when charging the battery module (10), the temperature of the upper portion of the battery cell (100) or the electrode lead (130) side to which current is applied may rapidly increase. At this time, heat may be transferred from the portion of the battery cell (100) where the temperature has increased to the portion where the temperature is relatively low by the cover member (200).

[0067] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cover member (200) is provided, the temperature within the battery cell (100) can be maintained uniformly. Accordingly, the temperature difference within the battery cell (100) is minimized, thereby extending the expected lifespan of the battery cell (100). Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the performance of the battery cell (100) can be maximized.

[0068] The cover member (200) may be configured to surround at least some of the plurality of battery cells (100). That is, the cover member (200) may be configured to group at least some of the plurality of battery cells. A plurality of cover members (200) may be provided. In particular, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the cover member (200) may be configured to surround each of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0069] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cover member (200) is individually provided for each battery cell (100), the temperature difference between each different battery cell (100) can be minimized.

[0070]

[0071] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a battery module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a module case (300). The module case (300) may be configured to have an internal space formed therein to accommodate battery cells (100). The module case (300) of the present embodiment may include a case body (310) and end plates (320) disposed on the front and rear sides of the case body (310).

[0072] Here, the case body (310) is provided with an upper plate, a lower plate, a left plate, and a right plate to form a storage space, and a stack of battery cells (100) can be stored in this storage space. This case body (310) can be made of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the housed battery cells (100).

[0073] In addition, the end plate (320) may be configured to be combined with the case body (310) to cover an open portion of the case body (310). More specifically, the case body (310) may be configured to have an open front and rear, and the end plate (320) may be configured to be combined with the open portions of the front and rear of the case body (310).

[0074] Meanwhile, a venting hole (H) may be provided in the module case (300). Directional venting in one direction may be possible through the venting hole (H). For example, a plurality of venting holes (H) may be formed on the upper surface of the case body. Accordingly, directional venting of the battery module (10) toward the top may be possible through the venting hole (H).

[0075]

[0076] In addition, the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a cooling plate (400). The cooling plate (400) may be configured to cool a plurality of battery cells (100). The cooling plate (400) may be provided on the inside of the module case (300). The cooling plate (400) may be provided on one side of the plurality of battery cells (100). The cooling plate (400) may be provided between the plurality of battery cells (100) and the module case (300). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the cooling plate (400) may be provided on the lower side of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0077] The cover member (200) may be configured to surround the battery cell (100) including the side facing the cooling plate (400). Furthermore, the cover member (200) may be configured to be in contact with the cooling plate (400). When the battery module (10) is charged, the temperature of the battery cell (100) may differ significantly between the side where the cooling plate (400) is provided and the upper part or the electrode lead (130) side where current is applied. However, according to the above-described configuration of the present invention, heat may be transferred from a high-temperature part of the battery cell (100) to the side where the cooling plate (400) is provided by the cover member (200). Accordingly, the temperature difference within the battery cell (100) may be minimized. In particular, according to this aspect of the present invention, the expected life of the battery cell (100) may be extended, and the performance of the battery cell (100) may be maximized.

[0078]

[0079] Meanwhile, the cover member (200) may be configured to store heat when the battery cell (100) generates heat. The cover member (200) may be provided with a TES (Thermal Energy Storage). For example, the cover member (200) may include a material capable of storing thermal energy at least partially. The cover member (200) may be provided entirely with a material capable of storing thermal energy, or may be provided partially with a material capable of storing thermal energy. In particular, the upper portion of the cover member (200) may be provided partially with a material capable of storing thermal energy.

[0080] For example, the cover member (200) may include a fiber material. Here, the fiber may be a material capable of storing thermal energy. As an example, the cover member (200) may include plastic fibers. More specifically, the cover member (200) may be manufactured by weaving plastic fibers. In addition, as another example, the cover member (200) may be made of a Gore-Tex material.

[0081] More specifically, heat from a high temperature portion of a battery cell (100) can be stored in the cover member (200). In addition, this heat can be used in a low temperature environment of the battery cell (100) to heat the low temperature portion of the battery cell (100).

[0082] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since a cover member (200) capable of storing heat energy emitted from a battery module (10) unit is provided, heat can be transferred to the battery cell (100) in a low-temperature situation of the battery module (10). Accordingly, performance degradation of the battery module (10) in a low-temperature situation can be prevented.

[0083] Moreover, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when charging a battery module (10) in a low-temperature situation, heat can be transferred to the battery cell (100) to reach the optimal charging temperature. As a result, the charging time can be minimized when charging the battery module (10).

[0084] Additionally, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, heat can be sustainably circulated without separate power or energy. This maximizes the energy efficiency of the battery module (10).

[0085]

[0086] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cover member included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the cover member (200) may be configured with two overlapping surfaces. The two surfaces of the cover member (200) may be configured to cover both sides of the battery cell (100). The cover member (200) may be configured so that the upper and lower sides are closed and both sides in the front and rear directions are open.

[0088] Through this open portion, the battery cell (100) can be inserted by sliding in the front-back direction. That is, the battery cell (100) can be inserted through the open portion of the cover member (200) so that the cover member (200) can cover both left and right sides (accommodation portion (121)) of the battery cell (100). In addition, the battery cell (100) can be vacuum-packed through a blow process. Accordingly, the cover member (200) can be provided in close contact with the battery cell (100).

[0089] At this time, the cover member (200) covers the sealing portion (122) provided on the upper part of the battery cell (100) and the lower surface, and the sealing portion (122) (cell terrace) provided in the front and rear directions from which the electrode lead (130) of the battery cell (100) is drawn out can be provided in an open state.

[0090] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, damage to the electrode lead (130) of the battery cell (100) during the process of covering the battery cell (100) by the cover member (200) can be minimized. In addition, the electrode lead (130) can be connected to other components such as a bus bar for electrical connection without being obstructed.

[0091] Moreover, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the cover member (200) and the battery cell (100) are manufactured separately, so that the battery cell (100) can be easily inserted into the cover member (200). At this time, even if the cover member (200) and the battery cell (100) are not bonded, the battery cell (100) can be slidably inserted into and fixed in the cover member (200). Thus, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, processability and productivity can be improved.

[0092] The cover member (200) may be configured to cover the side of the sealing portion (122) where the electrode lead (130) protrudes, i.e., the cell terrace. For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the cover member (200) may be configured to cover the sealing portion (122) provided in the front-rear direction.

[0093] When current is applied to a battery cell (100), the temperature of the portion of the battery cell (100) from which the electrode lead (130) is drawn out may rise. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cover member (200) covers the sealing portion (122) from which the electrode lead (130) protrudes, heat from the high-temperature portion can be more effectively transferred to the low-temperature portion. Accordingly, the temperature difference within the battery cell (100) can be minimized.

[0094]

[0095] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] As in the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 7, the cover member (200) may be configured in a mesh shape. The cover member (200) may have a plurality of holes. For example, the cover member (200) may have diamond-shaped holes.

[0097] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cover member (200) is relatively easy to stretch, even if the cover member (200) is made smaller than the battery cell (100), the cover member (200) can be covered over the battery cell (100). Moreover, in this case, since the cover member (200) can be in closer contact with the battery cell (100), the cover member (200) can better store the heat of the battery cell (100).

[0098] In addition, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the weight and volume of the cover member (200) can be minimized, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the battery module (10).

[0099]

[0100] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] The cover member (200) may be configured to at least partially surround the electrode lead (130). Referring to FIG. 8, the cover member (200) may be configured to extend further in the forward-backward direction (Y-axis direction) in which the electrode lead (130) is drawn out. The cover member (200) may be configured to cover both left and right sides of the electrode lead (130).

[0102] When current is applied to the battery cell (100), the temperature of the electrode lead (130) portion of the battery cell (100) may rise. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the cover member (200) at least partially covers the electrode lead (130), the heat of the electrode lead (130) can be more effectively transferred to the low-temperature portion of the battery cell (100). Accordingly, the temperature difference within the battery cell (100) can be minimized.

[0103] Furthermore, the cover member (200) may be composed of a material having insulating properties. According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the occurrence of a short circuit due to contact between electrode leads (130) of different battery cells (100) can be minimized.

[0104]

[0105] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a drawing showing that a thermal event has occurred in a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the cover member (200) may be configured to be openable by at least a portion of the venting gas generated from the battery cell (100). Specifically, the cover member (200) may include a venting portion (210). The venting portion (210) may be configured to discharge the venting gas generated from the battery cell (100) to the outside. The venting portion (210) may be configured to be ruptured by the pressure or heat of the venting gas. For example, the venting portion (210) may be provided in the form of a notch or a cut line on the cover member (200). In addition, a plurality of venting portions (210) may be provided.

[0107] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell (100), the cover member (200) configured to surround the specific battery cell (100) may be ruptured, thereby opening the venting portion (210). Accordingly, venting gas and the like may be discharged to the outside through the opened venting portion (210) (see FIG. 10).

[0108] In addition, the cover member (200) can suppress the venting gas discharged to the outside from moving toward other battery cells (100). That is, the venting portion (210) of the cover member (200), which is configured to surround a battery cell (100) in which a thermal event has not occurred, can be maintained in a closed state without being opened. Accordingly, the propagation of heat to neighboring battery cells (100) can be minimized, thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway within the battery module (10).

[0109]

[0110] Meanwhile, the battery cell (100) may be provided with a folding portion (123). The folding portion (123) may be provided so as to be folded on one side of the sealing portion (122) where the electrode lead (130) does not protrude. That is, the folding portion (123) may be provided on the side sealing portion of the sealing portion (122) where the electrode lead (130) is not provided. The folding portion (123) may be provided by being folded twice on one wide side of the sealing portion (122).

[0111] Additionally, the battery cell (100) may include a tape (140). The tape (140) may be configured to be attached to the folding portion (123) to fix the folding portion (123) when it is folded. The tape (140) may be attached to the battery case (200) to wrap the folding portion (123) along the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cell (100).

[0112] The tape (140) may be configured to be broken by gas generated within the cell case (120). When the tape (140) is broken by the gas, the folding portion (123) may be configured to unfold due to tension. Accordingly, gas generated within the battery cell (100) may be vented to the outside through the unfolded folding portion (123).

[0113] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, gases generated in the battery cell (100) can be induced to vent toward the side where the folding portion (123) is provided. For example, the folding portion (123) can be provided so as to face upward where the venting hole (H) of the battery module (10) is located, thereby preventing venting in all directions, including the front-back direction, of the battery cell (100). Accordingly, directional venting can be implemented toward the upper portion of the battery module (10), thereby enhancing the safety of the battery module (10) by controlling the venting direction.

[0114] Referring to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the venting portion (210) may be provided on the side of the folding portion (123). That is, the venting portion (210) may be configured to face the folding portion (123).

[0115] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the venting portion (210) is provided on the side of the folding portion (123) where venting is induced, the venting gas can be directly discharged from the folding portion (123) to the venting portion (210). Accordingly, since the venting gas can be discharged to the outside more quickly, the internal pressure of the battery cell (100) can be reduced.

[0116] In particular, the venting portion (210) may be provided between the tapes (140). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if the tapes (140) are not broken when venting the battery cell (100), the venting gas discharged into the space between the tapes (140) can be discharged to the outside more quickly.

[0117]

[0118] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member is applied according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] The cover member (200) may be configured to suppress venting gas from being discharged through a side where the venting portion (210) is not provided, for example, an open portion of the cover member (200). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the cover member (200) may be provided with a connecting portion (220). The connecting portion (220) may be configured to suppress venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) from being discharged to the outside.

[0120] According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, venting gas can be prevented from being discharged through a portion other than the venting portion (210). Accordingly, venting can be further induced only through the venting portion (210), thereby preventing the venting gas from spreading in all directions within the module case (300).

[0121] Specifically, the connecting portion (220) may be provided in the open portion of the cover member (200). Specifically, the connecting portion (220) may be configured to block the open portion of the cover member (200). Both front and rear sides of the cover member (200) may be configured to be open, and the connecting portion (220) may be configured such that the edges of two facing sides overlap and are sealed. The connecting portion (220) may be configured with an adhesive, adhesive tape, iron core, or the like.

[0122] In particular, the coupling portion (220) may be provided on the electrode lead (130) side of the battery cell (100). The coupling portion (220) may be provided on the remaining portion of the open portion of the cover member (200) except for the portion from which the electrode lead (130) is withdrawn. That is, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the coupling portion (220) may be configured to seal the cover member (200) on the upper and lower sides of the electrode lead (130).

[0123] When a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), internal pressure is concentrated on the cell terrace side where the electrode lead (130) is provided, and there is a possibility that venting gas may be discharged toward the electrode lead (130). In this case, heat may be transmitted to the busbar frame or other battery modules (10) provided in the front-rear direction of the battery cell (100). However, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, since the connecting portion (220) of the cover member (200) is provided on the electrode lead (130) side, the venting gas may be effectively suppressed from being discharged toward the electrode lead (130). Accordingly, venting may be further induced through the folding portion (123).

[0124]

[0125] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a cover member included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. In addition, Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a battery cell to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied, and Fig. 14 is a drawing showing that a thermal event has occurred in a battery cell to which a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0126] In another embodiment, the cover member (200) may be configured in the form of a single folded sheet. This cover member (200) may be configured to fold to cover both sides of the battery cell (100). For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 , after the battery cell (100) is secured in the central portion of the cover member (200), the cover member (200) may be folded to cover the left and right directions of the storage portion (121) of the battery cell (100).

[0127] In this case, the cover member (200) may be open on three sides. For example, the cover member (200) may cover the lower surface of the battery cell (100), and the sealing portion (122) (cell terrace) provided in the front and rear directions from which the electrode lead (130) of the battery cell (100) is drawn out and the folding portion (123) provided on the upper portion may be provided in an open state.

[0128] At this time, the connecting portion (220) may be provided on the folding portion (123) side. Accordingly, the cover member (200) may be fixed in a state of wrapping the battery cell (100).

[0129] In addition, the coupling portion (220) may be provided on the electrode lead (130) side. And, the coupling portion (220) may be provided at a position facing the tape (140). According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), the venting gas can be induced to be discharged into the space between the tapes (140) (see FIG. 14). Accordingly, when venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) is vented, the venting gas can be further induced upward, thereby suppressing the venting gas from spreading in all directions.

[0130]

[0131] FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] A battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. The battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include components of a battery pack known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a BMS (Battery Management System), a current sensor, a fuse, etc. for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules (10).

[0133] In addition, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention can have the module case (300) described above function as a pack case (2). In this case, components of the battery pack (1), such as a BMS, a bus bar, and a relay, can be included inside the module case (300). In this case, it is also called a cell-to-pack because the battery cells (100) are directly stored in the pack case.

[0134]

[0135] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] 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 or battery modules (10) 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) may include a four-wheeled vehicle and a two-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from the battery packs (1) or battery modules (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0137]

[0138] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the patent claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells; and A battery module characterized by including a cover member that at least partially surrounds the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of battery cells and is configured to uniformly maintain a temperature within the battery cells.

2. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a cooling plate provided on one side of the plurality of battery cells and configured to cool the plurality of battery cells, A battery module characterized in that the cover member is configured to be in contact with the cooling plate.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery module, characterized in that the cover member comprises a material capable of at least partially storing thermal energy.

4. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the cover member comprises a textile material.

5. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the cover member is configured such that two surfaces overlap to cover both sides of the battery cell.

6. In paragraph 1, The above battery cell electrode assembly, A battery case including a storage portion in which the electrode assembly is mounted and a sealing portion in which the outer periphery of the storage portion is sealed; An electrode lead electrically connected to the electrode assembly and protruding outward from the battery case is provided, A battery module characterized in that the cover member is configured to surround the side of the sealing portion from which the electrode lead protrudes.

7. In paragraph 6, A battery module, characterized in that the cover member is configured to at least partially surround the electrode lead.

8. In paragraph 1, The above cover member A battery module characterized by having a venting part configured to discharge venting gas generated in the battery cell to the outside.

9. In paragraph 8, A battery module characterized in that the venting portion is provided on the folding portion side of the sealing portion of the battery cell so as to be bent on the side where the electrode lead does not protrude.

10. In paragraph 1, The above cover member A battery module characterized by having a joint configured to suppress venting gas generated in the battery cell from being discharged to the outside.

11. In paragraph 10, A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned connecting portion is provided on the electrode lead side of the battery cell.

12. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the cover member is configured such that one sheet is folded to cover both sides of the battery cell.

13. A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A vehicle comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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