Battery pack

Abstract

A battery pack is disclosed. A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a case providing a space therein and having a pack cover; a battery module positioned inside the case and having a top plate facing the pack cover; and a spacer positioned between the top plate and the pack cover.

Description

battery pack

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

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0105536, filed on August 7, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0013] In addition, the present invention may provide a structure in which a space between a battery module and a pack cover can be secured when a thermal event occurs.

[0014] In addition, the present invention may provide a structure capable of securing a venting space when a thermal event occurs.

[0015] In addition, the present invention may provide a structure capable of guiding the flow of venting gas when a thermal event occurs.

[0016] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0017] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a case providing a space therein and having a pack cover; a battery module positioned inside the case and having a top plate facing the pack cover; and a spacer positioned between the top plate and the pack cover.

[0018] Additionally, the spacer may be provided on the upper surface of the top plate or the inner surface of the pack cover.

[0019] Additionally, the battery pack may have a venting hole formed in the top plate.

[0020] In addition, the spacer may include: a first part including a metal material; and a second part provided on an upper or lower surface of the first part and having elasticity.

[0021] Additionally, the spacer can be compressed between the top plate and the pack lead.

[0022] Additionally, the case may include: a base plate; a side wall installed on the base plate; and a venting device installed on the side wall.

[0023] Additionally, the spacer may extend toward the side wall or the venting device.

[0024] Additionally, the spacer may be provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple spacers may be arranged along a direction toward the side wall or the venting device.

[0025] In addition, the battery modules are provided in multiple numbers, and the spacer can be extended to be positioned between the multiple battery modules and the pack cover.

[0026] Additionally, the battery pack may further include a fastening member penetrating the pack cover and fastened to the spacer.

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

[0028] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when gas or flame is generated inside a battery module, the discharge of such gas or flame can be appropriately controlled.

[0029] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a space between the battery module and the pack cover can be secured when a thermal event occurs.

[0030] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a venting space can be secured when a thermal event occurs.

[0031] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs, the flow of venting gas can be guided.

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

[0033] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, explosion of a battery pack can be prevented when a thermal event occurs.

[0034] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention described below, serve to further understand the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

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

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

[0037] Figure 3 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery pack of Figure 2.

[0038] Figure 4 is a drawing showing the battery module of Figure 3.

[0039] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery module of Figure 4.

[0040] Fig. 6 is a drawing showing the combination of the battery module and spacer of Fig. 4.

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

[0042] Figure 8 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Figure 6.

[0043] Figure 9 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Figure 6.

[0044] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 7.

[0045] Fig. 11 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 8.

[0046] Fig. 12 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of Fig. 1.

[0047] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 12.

[0048] Figure 14 is a diagram showing the change in Figure 12 when a thermal event occurs.

[0049] Fig. 15 is a drawing showing a battery module adjacent to the battery module of Fig. 14.

[0050] Fig. 16 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Fig. 6.

[0051] Fig. 17 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Fig. 7.

[0052] Fig. 18 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Fig. 8.

[0053] Fig. 19 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Fig. 12.

[0054] Figure 20 is a diagram showing the change in Figure 19 when a thermal event occurs.

[0055] Figure 21 is a diagram showing the movement of venting gas when a thermal event occurs.

[0056] Fig. 22 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 21.

[0057] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their conventional or dictionary meanings. Based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best explain his or her invention, they should be interpreted in a way that aligns with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0058] Accordingly, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are only the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention, and it should be understood that there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0059] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a portion of the battery pack of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a portion of the battery pack of FIG. 2.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a case (100). The case (100) may form the exterior of the battery pack. The case (100) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The case (100) may provide a space therein. The case (100) may include a pack cover (150). The pack cover (150) may have a square plate shape.

[0061] The battery module (200) may be located inside the case (100). The battery module (200) may have a top plate (210a) facing the pack cover (150). The battery module (200) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0062] The spacer (400) may be located inside the case (100). The spacer (400) may be located between the top plate (210a) and the pack cover (150).

[0063] When a thermal event occurs from the battery module (200), the shape of the battery module (200) may be deformed. When a thermal event occurs from the battery module (200), the shape of the pack cover (150) may be deformed. The spacer (400) can secure a space between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150) even if the battery module (200) or the pack cover (150) is deformed. The space between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150) may be referred to as a venting space (VS). The venting gas (G) discharged from the battery module (200) can flow through the space secured by the spacer (400). In addition, since the venting gas (G) that has flowed through the venting space (VS) is discharged to the outside of the battery pack, an explosion of the battery pack can be prevented.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a spacer (400) may be provided on the upper surface of the top plate (210a). The spacer (400) may be coupled, fastened, attached, or fixed to the upper surface of the top plate (210a). Alternatively, the spacer (400) may be formed integrally with the top plate (210a).

[0065] Alternatively, the spacer (400) may be provided on the inner surface of the pack cover (150). The spacer (400) may be joined, fastened, attached, or fixed to the inner surface of the pack cover (150). Alternatively, the spacer (400) may be formed integrally with the pack cover (150).

[0066] A spacer (400) is provided on the pack cover (150) or the top plate (210a) to stably secure a space between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150).

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the case (100) may include a base plate (110). The base plate (110) may have a square shape. The base plate (110) may have a flat shape. The base plate (110) may form the exterior of the battery pack. The base plate (110) may provide an internal space of the battery pack.

[0068] The case (100) may include a side wall (120). The side wall (120) may be installed, fastened, joined, fixed, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate (110). The side wall (120) may be composed of four pieces. The side wall (120) may be arranged along the perimeter of the base plate (110). The side wall (120) may form the exterior of the battery pack. The side wall (120) may provide an internal space.

[0069] The pack cover (150) can be installed, fastened, joined, fixed or attached to the side wall (120). The pack cover (150) can cover the internal space of the battery pack.

[0070] A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a venting device (500). The venting device (500) may be installed on a side wall (120). For example, the venting device (500) may be installed on a front side wall (120). For example, the venting device (500) may be a gas valve. The venting device (500) may open to discharge gas when the pressure inside the case (100) increases. In addition, the venting device (500) may block external air from flowing into the case (100). A plurality of venting devices (500) may be provided.

[0071] When a thermal event occurs from the battery module (200), venting gas (G) can flow between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150). Then, the venting gas (G) can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack through the venting device (500).

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a partition wall (300). The partition wall (300) may include a first partition wall (310) and a second partition wall (320). A plurality of partition walls (300) may be provided. The partition wall (300) may be installed, fastened, fixed, joined, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate (110). The partition wall (300) may partition the internal space of the battery pack. The battery module (200) may be located in the space partitioned by the partition wall (300).

[0073] Fig. 4 is a drawing showing the battery module (200) of Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery module (200) of Fig. 4.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the battery module (200) may include a frame (210). The frame (210) may include a top plate (210a) and a lower frame (210b). The frame (210) may provide a space therein. The lower frame (210b) may include a bottom plate and a pair of side plates. The top plate (210a) may be installed, fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to the pair of side plates. For example, the top plate (210a) may be welded to the lower frame (210b). The frame (210) may have an open front and rear. The top plate (210a) may include a venting hole (211). The venting hole (211) may allow communication between the inside and the outside of the frame (210).

[0075] When a thermal event occurs from the battery module (200), venting gas (G) and flammable particles may be discharged to the outside of the frame (210) through the venting hole (211). This may cause the top plate (210a) or pack cover (150) to deform. The spacer (400) can stably secure a venting space (VS) even if the top plate (210a) or pack cover (150) is deformed.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the battery module (200) may include a battery cell (220). The battery cell (220) may refer to a secondary battery. In particular, the battery cell (220) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. However, the shape of the battery cell (220) is not limited to a pouch shape and may have various shapes such as a cylindrical shape or a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The battery cell (220) may be provided in plurality. The battery cell (220) may be accommodated inside the frame (210). The plurality of battery cells (220) may be stacked in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The battery cell (220) may include a receiving portion (221) having an electrode assembly, a first sealing portion (222) protruding to the left and right sides of the receiving portion (221), and a second sealing portion (223) protruding to the upper side of the receiving portion (221). Additionally, the battery cell (220) may include electrode leads (224) that protrude to the left and right of the first sealing portion (222), respectively. Each battery cell (220) may extend in the left-right direction or along the Y-axis direction. The electrode leads (224) may protrude to the left and right of each receiving portion (221).

[0077] The pad (250) may be placed between a plurality of battery cells (220). The pad (250) may be placed between at least some of the battery cells (220) and / or on the periphery of the stack. For example, the pad (250) may be configured to be placed between every four battery cells (220) stacked in the left-right direction.

[0078] These pads (250) may be provided with an elastic material to enable swelling absorption of the battery cells (220). For example, the pads (250) may be composed of a foam material such as polyurethane. Alternatively, the pads (250) may be provided with a material capable of blocking heat or flames. For example, the pads (250) may be provided with an insulating or fire-retardant material such as silicone or mica.

[0079] A busbar frame assembly (230) may be provided on each of the left and right sides of a plurality of battery cells (220). The busbar frame assembly (230) may be electrically connected to the electrode leads (224) of the plurality of battery cells (220).

[0080] A pair of end covers (240) can be respectively coupled to the left and right sides of the frame (210). The pair of end covers (240) can cover the left and right sides of the frame (210). The end covers (240) can have a square shape.

[0081] The inner cover (260) may be positioned between the top plate (210a) and the plurality of battery cells (220). The inner cover (260) may be installed, fastened, fixed, combined, or attached to the inner surface of the top plate (210a). The inner cover (260) may cover the venting hole (211). When a thermal event occurs from the battery cell (220), the inner cover (260) may be ruptured by venting gas (G) or ignitable particles. The venting gas (G) may be discharged to the outside of the frame (210) through the venting hole (211). The inner cover (260) may block the venting gas (G) generated from the outside of the battery module (200) from flowing into the inside of the frame (210).

[0082] Fig. 6 is a drawing showing the combination of the battery module (200) and the spacer (400) of Fig. 4.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 6, the spacer (400) may extend longitudinally in the front-back direction or along the X-axis direction. The spacer (400) may extend toward the side wall (120). Alternatively, the spacer (400) may extend toward the venting device (500). The spacer (400) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple spacers (400) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0084] Venting holes (211) may be arranged between adjacent spacers (400). A plurality of venting holes (211) may be provided. A plurality of venting holes (211) may be arranged in the front-rear direction or along the X-axis direction.

[0085] The spacer (400) can secure a venting space (VS) so that the venting gas (G) discharged through the venting hole (211) can flow in at least one direction among the front-rear direction, the X-axis direction, the direction toward the side wall (120), or the direction toward the venting device (500).

[0086] Fig. 7 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 6.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 7, a plurality of spacers (400) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The plurality of spacers (400) may be arranged along the direction toward the side wall (120). Alternatively, the plurality of spacers (400) may be arranged along the direction toward the venting device (500).

[0088] Additionally, a plurality of spacers (400) can be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0089] A plurality of spacers (400) can secure a venting space (VS) so that the venting gas (G) discharged through the venting hole (211) flows in at least one direction among the front-back direction, the X-axis direction, the direction toward the side wall (120), or the direction toward the venting device (500).

[0090] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Fig. 6. Referring to Figs. 2 and 8, a plurality of spacers (400) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The plurality of spacers (400) may be arranged along the direction toward the side wall (120). Alternatively, the plurality of spacers (400) may be arranged along the direction toward the venting device (500). Compared to the embodiment of Fig. 7, the spacer (400) of Fig. 8 may have a shorter length. Since the spacer (400) has a shorter length, a wider venting space (VS) may be secured.

[0091] Figure 9 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Figure 6.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 9, the spacer (400) may include a first part (410) comprising a metal material. The first part (410) may include a metal material with high heat resistance. For example, the first part (410) may include a steel material. The first part (410) may be provided on the upper surface of the top plate (210a).

[0093] The spacer (400) may include a second part (420). The second part (420) may include an elastic material. For example, the second part (420) may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of silicone, urethane, and polyurethane. The second part (420) may be disposed on the upper surface of the first part (410). The second part (420) may be installed, fastened, fixed, coupled, or attached to the first part (410). The second part (420) may be positioned between the first part (410) and the pack cover (150).

[0094] Alternatively, the first part (410) may be provided on the inner surface of the pack cover (150). And the second part (420) may be placed on the lower surface of the first part (410). The second part (420) may be positioned between the top plate (210a) and the first part (410).

[0095] The spacer (400) can be compressed between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150). By compressing the spacer (400), the assembly tolerance of the battery pack can be absorbed. By compressing the spacer (400), the friction between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150) can be alleviated.

[0096] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 7. Fig. 11 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 8.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the plurality of spacers (400) may each include a first part (410) and a second part (420). The plurality of spacers (400) may each be compressed between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150). By compressing the plurality of spacers (400), the assembly tolerance of the battery pack may be more effectively absorbed. By compressing the plurality of spacers (400), the friction between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150) may be more effectively alleviated.

[0098] Fig. 12 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of Fig. 1.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 12, the spacer (400) can be in contact with the top plate (210a). The spacer (400) can be in contact with the inner surface of the pack cover (150). The venting space (VS) can be secured as much as the height (h) of the spacer (400).

[0100] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 12.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 13, the spacer (400) can be compressed between the pack cover (150) and the top plate (210a). The venting space (VS) can be secured as much as the height (h) of the spacer (400).

[0102] Figure 14 is a diagram showing the change in Figure 12 when a thermal event occurs.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 14, a battery module (200a) in which a thermal event has occurred can discharge venting gas (G) through a venting hole (211). Due to high heat, the shape of the battery module (200a) may be deformed. For example, the top plate (210a) may protrude outward or in the +Z-axis direction. Due to high heat, the shape of the pack cover (150) may be deformed. For example, the pack cover (150) may protrude outward or in the +Z-axis direction. At this time, the spacer (400) can secure a gap or space between the top plate (210a) and the pack cover (150). As a result, a venting space (VS) can be secured. The venting gas (G) discharged through the venting hole (211) can flow along the venting space (VS).

[0104] Fig. 15 is a drawing showing a battery module (200b) adjacent to the battery module (200a) of Fig. 14.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 15, the shape of the battery module (200b) adjacent to the battery module (200a) where the thermal event occurred may be deformed. For example, the top plate (210a) may be sunk inward or in the -Z-axis direction. The shape of the portion of the pack cover (150) facing the battery module (200b) may be deformed. For example, the pack cover (150) may be sunk inward or in the -Z-axis direction. At this time, the spacer (400) may secure a gap or space between the top plate (210a) and the pack cover (150). As a result, a venting space (VS) may be secured. The venting gas (G) discharged from the battery module (200a) may flow along the venting space (VS) between the battery module (200b) and the pack cover (150).

[0106] Fig. 16 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Fig. 6.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 16, the spacer (400) may have a second fastening hole (401) formed on the upper surface. The second fastening hole (401) may be provided on both sides of the length direction of the spacer (400). The second fastening hole (401) may be provided for each spacer (400). The pack cover (150) may have a first fastening hole (151). A plurality of first fastening holes (151) may be provided. The first fastening hole (151) may be provided to correspond one-to-one with the second fastening hole (401). The first fastening hole (151) may face the second fastening hole (401). The fastening member (S) may pass through the first fastening hole (151). The fastening member (S) may be fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to the second fastening hole (401). A plurality of fastening members (S) may be provided. The fastening members (S) may be provided in one-to-one correspondence with the first fastening hole (151). The fastening members (S) may be provided in one-to-one correspondence with the second fastening hole (401).

[0108] The fastening member (S) can connect the spacer (400) and the pack cover (150). By connecting the spacer (400) and the pack cover (150), the venting space (VS) can be stably secured.

[0109] Fig. 17 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Fig. 7.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 17, a plurality of spacers (400) can be arranged along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. A second fastening hole (401) can be provided for each spacer (400). A fastening member (S) can be coupled to each spacer (400).

[0111] Fig. 18 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Fig. 8.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 18, a plurality of spacers (400) may be arranged in the front-rear direction or along the X-axis direction. A second fastening hole (401) may be provided for each spacer (400). A fastening member (S) may be coupled to each spacer (400). Compared to the embodiment of FIG. 17, the spacer (400) of FIG. 18 may have a shorter length. Since the spacer (400) has a shorter length, a larger number of fastening members (S) may be provided. By providing a larger number of fastening members (S), the venting space (VS) may be secured more stably.

[0113] Fig. 19 is a drawing showing another modified embodiment of Fig. 12. Fig. 20 is a drawing showing a change in Fig. 19 when a thermal event occurs.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the fastening member (S) can connect the pack cover (150) and the spacer (400). The fastening member (S) can connect the pack cover (150) and the battery module (200a).

[0115] The battery module (200a) in which a thermal event has occurred can discharge venting gas (G) through the venting hole (211). Due to the high heat, the shape of the battery module (200a) may be deformed. For example, the top plate (210a) may protrude outward or in the +Z-axis direction. Due to the high heat, the shape of the pack cover (150) may be deformed. For example, the pack cover (150) may protrude outward or in the +Z-axis direction. At this time, the fastening member (S) can maintain the coupled state of the spacer (400) and the pack cover (150). Alternatively, the fastening member (S) can maintain the coupled state of the battery module (200a) and the pack cover (150). The spacer (400) can secure a gap or space between the top plate (210a) and the pack cover (150). As a result, a venting space (VS) can be secured. Venting gas (G) discharged through the venting hole (211) can flow along the venting space (VS).

[0116] Figure 21 is a diagram showing the movement of venting gas (G) when a thermal event occurs.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 21, a venting gas (G) discharged from one battery module (200) can flow along a venting space (VS) between the battery module (200) and the pack cover (150). The venting gas (G) can flow in the forward / backward direction or along the X-axis direction. The venting gas (G) can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack through the venting device (500).

[0118] Fig. 22 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Fig. 21.

[0119] Referring to Fig. 22, the spacer (400) can be extended in the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The spacer (400) can be positioned between a plurality of battery modules (200) and the pack cover (150). For example, one spacer (400) can be in contact with four battery modules (200). By forming the spacer (400) to be long, the spacer (400) can partition a venting space (VS). For example, the spacer (400) can partition the venting space (VS) in the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The spacer (400) can guide the flow of the venting gas (G). By partitioning the venting space (VS) and guiding the flow of the venting gas (G) by the spacer (400), the propagation of a thermal event can be effectively suppressed.

[0120] In addition, the battery pack according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery module, such as various battery pack components known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a BMS, a bus bar, a relay, a current sensor, etc.

[0121] The battery pack according to the present invention can be applied to automobiles such as electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles. Specifically, the automobile according to the present invention may include the battery pack according to the present invention. Furthermore, the automobile according to the present invention may further include various other components, in addition to the battery pack. For example, the automobile according to the present invention may further include a body, a motor, a control device such as an electronic control unit (ECU), and the like.

[0122] As described above, although the present invention has been described by limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the patent claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

Claims

1. A case that provides space inside and has a pack cover; A battery module positioned inside the case and having a top plate facing the pack cover; and A battery pack comprising a spacer positioned between the top plate and the pack cover.

2. In paragraph 1, The above spacer, A battery pack provided on the upper surface of the top plate or the inner surface of the pack cover.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery pack having a venting hole formed in the top plate.

4. In paragraph 1, The above spacer: A first part comprising a metal material; and, A battery pack comprising a second part having elasticity and provided on the upper or lower surface of the first part.

5. In paragraph 4, The above spacer, A battery pack compressed between the top plate and the pack cover.

6. In paragraph 1, The above case is: base plate; A side wall installed on the above base plate; and, A battery pack comprising a venting device installed on the above side wall.

7. In paragraph 6, The above spacer, A battery pack extending toward the side wall or the venting device.

8. In paragraph 6, The above spacers are provided in multiples, The above plurality of spacers are, A battery pack arranged along the direction toward the side wall or the venting device.

9. In paragraph 1, The above battery modules are provided in multiples, The above spacer, A battery pack that is extended so as to be positioned between the plurality of battery modules and the pack cover.

10. In paragraph 1, A battery pack further comprising a fastening member penetrating the pack cover and fastened to the spacer.

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

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