Battery module, battery pack comprising same, and vehicle

Abstract

A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the cell assembly in an inner space; a frame cover covering the cell assembly at the upper portion of the module case and provided with at least one venting hole; and a support plate configured to form a predetermined space between the frame cover and the support plate.

Description

Battery modules, battery packs containing the same, and vehicles

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

[0002] Secondary batteries, unlike primary batteries that cannot be recharged, are batteries that can be charged and discharged. They are used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) that are driven by electrical power sources.

[0003] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, i.e., unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5 V to 4.6 V. Therefore, when a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery pack. Furthermore, depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common to first configure a battery module comprising at least one battery cell, preferably multiple battery cells, and then use at least one such battery module and add other components to configure the battery pack. Here, a battery module refers to a component in which multiple battery cells are connected in series or parallel, and a battery pack refers to a component in which multiple battery modules are connected in series or parallel to increase capacity and output.

[0005] Meanwhile, in a conventional battery pack, when a thermal event occurs in some of the battery modules included in the battery pack, flames emitted from the frame cover of the battery module contact the fireproof cover provided on the inner surface of the pack cover of the battery pack. At this time, when heat is transmitted through the battery module, the temperature of the flame approaches approximately 1000 degrees Celsius, so the adhesive applied between the fireproof cover and the pack cover may melt, causing the fireproof cover to detach from the pack cover and fall downward.

[0006] That is, conventional battery packs have the problem of not having a structure that can prevent detachment of the refractory cover. Thus, if the refractory cover and / or deteriorated fragments fall on the battery module, the refractory cover and / or fragments block the venting holes of the battery module, which is detrimental to the heat transfer prevention technology of the battery module. For example, if the refractory cover detaches or fragments fall, the venting holes provided in the frame cover of the battery module can be blocked, hindering gas venting, which can accelerate the heat transfer rate within the battery module.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a battery pack having a structure capable of preventing a fireproof cover attached to a top cover of the battery pack from falling off even when a thermal event occurs inside the battery pack.

[0008] In addition, the present invention has another object of preventing fragments from falling onto a battery module even if a thermal event occurs inside the battery pack.

[0009] 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.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a battery module comprises: a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the cell assembly in an internal space; a frame cover covering the cell assembly at an upper portion of the module case and having at least one venting hole; and a support plate configured to form a predetermined space between the frame cover and the module case.

[0011] Preferably, the support plate may be configured to form an empty space in a peripheral area of ​​a venting hole provided on the upper portion of the battery module.

[0012] For example, the support plate may be configured to have a structure protruding upward from the frame cover.

[0013] In one aspect of the present invention, the support plate may include a main body portion extending in a horizontal direction; and at least one leg portion extending in a vertical direction from the main body portion.

[0014] Preferably, the main body portion may be configured to be spaced apart from the frame cover of the battery module by a predetermined distance.

[0015] At this time, the main body may include a mesh net and a flange part provided along the edge of the mesh net.

[0016] In another aspect of the present invention, the bridge portion may include a horizontal extension portion extending in a horizontal direction and a vertical extension portion extending in a vertical direction by bending from an end of the horizontal extension portion.

[0017] In another aspect of the present invention, the module case may include an end plate configured to cover both longitudinal ends of the cell assembly by being coupled to one longitudinal side and the other longitudinal side.

[0018] In one aspect of the present invention, the end plate includes at least one recess dug inward from the surface, and the leg portion can be mounted on the recess provided in the end plate of the battery module.

[0019] Meanwhile, the present invention provides a battery pack comprising: at least one battery module according to the above-described embodiment; a lower case accommodating the battery module; a pack cover configured to cover an upper portion of the battery module from an upper portion of the lower case; and a fireproof cover provided on an inner surface of the pack cover.

[0020] Preferably, the refractory cover may include a mica material.

[0021] In one aspect of the present invention, the support plate is provided in a space between the refractory cover and the battery module, and can be configured to support the refractory cover in a direction toward the pack cover.

[0022] Preferably, the support plate may be configured to be in surface contact with at least a portion of the refractory cover.

[0023] In addition, the present invention provides a vehicle including at least one battery pack according to the above-described embodiment.

[0024] According to the present invention, even if heat propagation occurs in a battery module included in a battery pack, a fireproof cover provided on the inner surface of a top cover of the battery pack can be prevented from detaching toward the battery module.

[0025] Additionally, the present invention can prevent fragments from falling onto the battery module even if a thermal event occurs inside the battery pack.

[0026] Furthermore, according to the present invention, even if heat propagation occurs in a battery module included inside a battery pack, gas venting can be maintained smoothly by preventing the fireproof cover from blocking the venting hole of the battery module.

[0027] However, the effects that can be obtained through the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and other technical effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0028] 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.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 1.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a support plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the joint structure of a support plate and a front end plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of Figure 5.

[0035] Figure 7 is a plan view of Figure 6 viewed from above.

[0036] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the joint structure of a support plate and a rear end plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of Figure 8.

[0038] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken vertically from Fig. 9.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack including at least one battery module of FIG. 1.

[0040] Figure 12 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a conventional battery pack.

[0041] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining a case where a thermal event occurs in the conventional battery pack of FIG. 12.

[0042] FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining a case where a thermal event occurs within the battery pack of FIG. 14.

[0044] FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including the battery pack of FIG. 11.

[0045] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Accordingly, in some embodiments, well-known process steps, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not specifically described to avoid ambiguity in the interpretation of the present invention. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0046] In order to clearly represent multiple layers and regions in the drawings, the thickness may be enlarged. Similar parts are designated by the same drawing reference numerals throughout the specification. When an element such as a layer, film, region, or plate is said to be "over" another element, this includes not only the case where it is "directly over" the other element, but also the case where there are other elements in between. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly over" another element, it can mean that there are no other elements in between. Furthermore, when an element such as a layer, film, region, or plate is said to be "under" another element, this includes not only the case where it is "directly under" the other element, but also the case where there are other elements in between. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly under" another element, it can mean that there are no other elements in between.

[0047] The statement that two compared objects are identical means "substantially identical." Therefore, "substantially identical" may include deviations considered low in the art, such as deviations of less than 5%. Furthermore, uniformity of a parameter over a given region may also mean uniformity on average.

[0048] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0049] Any configuration being placed "on (or below)" a component or "on (or below)" a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, but also that other configurations may intervene between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0050] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0051] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C to D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0052] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 1.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery module (10) according to the present invention includes a cell assembly (100), a module case (200), a frame cover (300), and a support plate (400). In addition, the battery module (10) may further include an end plate (500).

[0054] The above cell assembly (100) may include a plurality of battery cells (110). The plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked in at least one direction. More specifically, the plurality of battery cells (110) may be arranged at least in a horizontal direction. The plurality of battery cells (110) may be configured to be arranged side by side in the left-right direction while being erected in the vertical direction. For example, referring to FIG. 2, the plurality of battery cells (110) may be configured to be arranged side by side in the left-right direction while being erected in the vertical direction.

[0055] Hereinafter, each of the above-mentioned plurality of battery cells (110) will be examined in more detail.

[0056] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 3, the battery cell (110) may be a secondary battery, for example, a pouch-type battery cell (110). However, this does not limit the type of the battery cell (110), and other types of battery cells (110), such as cylindrical cells or square cells, may also be employed in the battery module (10) of the present invention.

[0058] Hereinafter, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a case in which the battery cell (110) is a pouch-type cell will be described as an example. Referring to FIG. 3, the battery cell (110) may include an electrode assembly (111), a receiving portion (113) for receiving the electrode assembly (111), a sealing portion (115) formed around the receiving portion (113), and a pair of electrode leads (117) connected to the electrode assembly (111) and extending outward from the sealing portion (115).

[0059] The pair of electrode leads (117) are coupled with electrode tabs (not shown) provided in the electrode assembly (111) and can be extended to the outside of the sealing portion (115) through the sealing portion (115). The pair of electrode leads (117) may have a shape extending along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110). The pair of electrode leads (117) may be extended in the same direction or in opposite directions.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 3, the battery cell (110) may be configured to discharge venting gas through the upper sealing portion (115). The sealing portion (115) may be provided with a venting area formed to prevent an increase in internal pressure due to gas generated inside the battery cell (110). The venting area is formed on a portion of the sealing portion (115) and corresponds to an area that is structurally weaker than the surrounding area so that it can be easily broken when internal pressure is applied. The venting area may be, for example, an area in which the sealing is formed weaker than the surrounding area. In this case, the venting area may be formed on one of the two side edges of the sealing portion (115). In particular, the venting area may be formed on the upper side edge of the two side edges of the sealing portion (115).

[0061] According to this structure, gas generated inside the battery cell (110) can be discharged to the outside of the battery cell (110) through the venting area formed at the upper end of the battery cell (110). Accordingly, the gas can be discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through the frame cover (300) located at the upper end of the battery cell (110). In other words, according to this structure, high-temperature gas and flame inside the module can be smoothly discharged.

[0062] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the module case (200) may be configured to accommodate the cell assembly (100) in its internal space. That is, the module case (200) may have an empty space formed therein, and may accommodate the cell assembly (100) in the internal space. The module case (200) may be configured to accommodate the cell assembly (100). The module case (200) may have a form in which one longitudinal side and the other side are open.

[0063] The above module case (200) may include a base plate extending horizontally and a side plate extending upward from the base plate. At this time, the base plate may be configured to have a plate shape extending approximately horizontally. The side plate may be configured to have a plate shape extending approximately vertically. The base plate and the side plate may be configured to be perpendicular to each other. That is, the module case (200) may be configured as a U-shaped frame.

[0064] Meanwhile, the side plate may be provided in the width direction of the battery module (10). That is, the module case (200) may have a form in which the side plate is provided in the width direction and one side and the other side in the length direction are open. In another aspect of the present invention, the base plate and the side plate may be configured as an integral part. Alternatively, the base plate and the side plate may be configured to be detachable.

[0065] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the frame cover (300) may be positioned on at least one side of the module case (200). Preferably, the frame cover (300) may be mounted on the upper portion of the module case (200). That is, the frame cover (300) may cover the cell assembly (100) on the upper portion of the module case (200).

[0066] Meanwhile, since the battery cell (110) has a venting area formed on the upper edge of both sides of the sealing portion (115), the venting gas released through the upper sealing portion (115) can be easily discharged to the outside through the frame cover (300).

[0067] In one aspect of the present invention, the frame cover (300) may be configured to be detachably connected to the module case (200). For example, the frame cover (300) may be coupled and / or decoupled from an end plate (500) to be described later. This will be described in detail below.

[0068] In another aspect of the present invention, the frame cover (300) may be configured to discharge venting gas. Preferably, the frame cover (300) may be configured to control the direction of discharge of the venting gas.

[0069] Referring again to FIG. 2, the frame cover (300) may be provided with at least one venting hole (310). The frame cover (300) may be configured to cover the upper portion of the cell assembly (100). For example, the frame cover (300) may be configured to have a plate shape extending approximately horizontally.

[0070] The venting hole (310) may be configured to discharge venting gas. That is, the venting hole (310) may be configured to have a hole shape that penetrates the frame cover (300) in the vertical direction. The venting hole (310) may be provided in a long form extending along the sealing portion (115) of the battery cell (110). With this structure, high-temperature gas and flames inside the module can be smoothly discharged.

[0071] The above venting holes (310) may be formed in multiple numbers on the frame cover (300). For example, the venting holes (310) may be provided in multiple numbers along the sealing portion (115) of the battery cell (110).

[0072] According to this structure, even if a large amount of gas is generated within the battery module (10), the gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10) through the plurality of venting holes (310). In other words, the time that the venting gas remains within the module case (200) can be minimized.

[0073] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a support plate (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, the support plate (400) may be configured to form a predetermined space between it and the frame cover (300). The support plate (400) may be positioned on the upper side of the frame cover (300). That is, the support plate (400) may be placed on the frame cover (300). The support plate (400) may be placed spaced upward from the frame cover (300).

[0075] Preferably, the support plate (400) may be configured to form an empty space in the surrounding area of ​​the venting hole (310) provided on the upper portion of the battery module (10). For example, the support plate (400) may be configured to have a structure that protrudes upward from the frame cover (300).

[0076] According to this structure, when a thermal event occurs in some battery modules (10) provided inside the battery pack, the fireproof cover (60) provided inside the pack cover (52) of the battery pack can be prevented from falling onto the battery module (10) due to weakened adhesiveness caused by heat. In addition, according to the above configuration, the fireproof cover (60) can be prevented from blocking the venting hole (310) of the battery module (10), thereby maintaining smooth gas venting.

[0077] Referring again to FIG. 4, the support plate (400) may include a main body (410) and a leg portion (430).

[0078] The above main body (410) may be configured in a shape extending in a horizontal direction. The above main body (410) may have a substantially flat shape extending in a horizontal direction.

[0079] The main body (410) may include a mesh net (411) and a flange portion (413) provided along the edge of the mesh net (411). With this structure, the mesh net (411) can prevent sparks generated in the cell assembly (100) from flying out of the cell assembly (100). In addition, it is possible to effectively prevent fire from spreading to other battery modules (10) adjacent to the battery module (10) where the thermal event occurred. In addition, with the above configuration, some fragments destroyed by heat are effectively prevented from falling into the battery module (10), and at the same time, the venting hole (310) is not blocked, so that the venting gas can be smoothly discharged.

[0080] Meanwhile, the leg portion (430) may be configured to extend vertically from the main body portion (410).

[0081] Accordingly, the main body (410) may be configured to be spaced apart from the frame cover (300) of the battery module (10) by a predetermined distance. That is, the main body (410) may be positioned upward at a predetermined distance from the frame cover (300) of the battery module (10).

[0082] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the joint structure of a support plate (400) and a front end plate (510) according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of FIG. 5, and FIG. 7 is a plan view of FIG. 6 as viewed from above.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, as one embodiment of the present invention, the bridge portion (430) may include a horizontal extension portion (431) and a vertical extension portion (433).

[0084] The horizontal extension portion (431) may be configured to extend horizontally from the flange portion (413). The vertical extension portion (433) may be configured to extend vertically in a bending manner from the end of the horizontal extension portion (431). The horizontal extension portion (431) may be set differently depending on the distance to the recess (500R) provided on the end plate (500).

[0085] As one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIG. 6, the leg portion (430) may be configured in the form of a wire attached to the flange portion (413). That is, the leg portion (430) may be configured to form a closed loop together with the flange portion (413). Alternatively, as another embodiment of the present invention, the leg portion (430) may be configured to have a rod structure protruding from the flange portion (413). Alternatively, as yet another embodiment of the present invention, the leg portion (430) may be configured to have a plate structure that is bent and extended from the flange portion (413). The shape of the leg portion (430) is not limited to the structures of FIGS. 5 to 7, and if the leg portion (430) has a structure that can be inserted or fixed to the end plate (500), it will be considered to be included in the scope of the present invention. However, since the above-mentioned bridge part (430) is a structure that must secure space in the vertical direction, it is preferable to include a vertical extension part (433).

[0086] Referring again to FIGS. 5 to 7, the battery module (10) may include an end plate (500). The end plate (500) may be coupled to one longitudinal side and the other longitudinal side of the module case (200). The end plate (500) may be configured to cover both longitudinal ends of the cell assembly (100).

[0087] More specifically, the end plate (500) may include a front end plate (510) and a rear end plate (530).

[0088] The front end plate (510) may be configured to be coupled to one longitudinal side of the module case (200) to cover one longitudinal end of the cell assembly (100). The rear end plate (530) may be configured to be coupled to the other longitudinal side of the module case (200) to cover the other longitudinal end of the cell assembly (100).

[0089] At this time, the support plate (400) may be configured to be coupled with at least one of the front end plate (510) and the rear end plate (530). Preferably, the support plate (400) may be configured to be coupled with each of the front end plate (510) and the rear end plate (530).

[0090] For example, referring to FIG. 2, the front end plate (510) may include at least one recess (500R). The recess (500R) has a structure that can be coupled with the support plate (400). Specifically, the front end plate (510) may include at least one recess (500R) dug inward from the surface. At this time, the leg portion (430) may be mounted on the recess (500R) provided in the front end plate (510) of the battery module (10). That is, the leg portion (430) may be configured to be bound to the recess (500R).

[0091] Referring to FIG. 7, the recess (500R) may be configured in the form of a groove or hole in which the end plate (500) is dug inward, and the vertical extension (433) of the leg portion (430) that protrudes vertically is inserted into the recess (500R), thereby fixing the support plate (400) to a certain position. In particular, the horizontal movement of the support plate (400) may be limited by the combination of the recess (500R) and the leg portion (430). In other words, the support plate (400) may be restrained in the horizontal direction by the combination structure of the recess (500R) and the leg portion (430). That is, the support plate (400) may be restrained in the front, back, left, and right directions by the combination structure of the recess (500R) and the leg portion (430).

[0092] In another embodiment of the present invention, the recess (500R) may have a structure other than a simple inwardly dug groove structure. For example, the recess (500R) may be configured to be coupled with the leg portion (430) of the support plate (400) in a snap-fit ​​structure. The shape of the recess (500R) is not particularly limited, and any structure that allows coupling and decoupling with the leg portion (430) is considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

[0093] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the joint structure of a support plate (400) and a rear end plate (530) according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of FIG. 8, and FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken vertically from FIG. 9.

[0094] Likewise, referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the rear end plate (530) may include at least one recess (500R). The recess (500R) has a structure that can be coupled with the support plate (400). Specifically, the rear end plate (530) may include at least one recess (500R) dug inward from the surface. At this time, the leg portion (430) may be mounted on the recess (500R) provided in the rear end plate (530) of the battery module (10). That is, the leg portion (430) may be configured to be bound to the recess (500R).

[0095] Referring to Fig. 10, the height of the vertical extension (433) of the leg portion (430) can be configured to be longer than the depth of the recess (500R). With this structure, the main body (410) of the support plate (400) can be maintained at a certain distance from the frame cover (300) of the battery module (10). That is, with the above configuration, a certain space can be formed between the frame cover (300) of the battery module (10) and the main body (410) of the support plate (400). Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in some of the battery modules (10) provided inside the battery pack, the fireproof cover (60) provided on the inside of the pack cover (52) of the battery pack can be prevented from falling onto the battery module (10) due to weakened adhesiveness caused by heat. In addition, according to the above configuration, the refractory cover (60) can be prevented from blocking the venting hole (310) of the battery module (10), thereby maintaining smooth gas venting.

[0096] In one aspect of the present invention, the support plate (400) can be configured to be detachably attached to the module case (200).

[0097] For example, the support plate (400) may be coupled and / or decoupled from the front end plate (510) and / or the rear end plate (530) described later. Alternatively, the support plate (400) may be configured to be detachable from the module case (200).

[0098] In one aspect of the present invention, the leg portion (430) may be provided in multiple pieces.

[0099] For example, referring to FIG. 5, the leg portions (430) may be provided in two pieces at a predetermined interval on the front end plate (510) side. In addition, referring to FIG. 8, the leg portions (430) may be provided in two pieces at a predetermined interval on the rear end plate (530) side. However, the number of leg portions (430) is not limited thereto. The leg portions (430) may be provided in multiple pieces as long as they do not interfere with the relationship with other structures provided on the end plate (500).

[0100] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack including at least one battery module (10) of FIG. 1.

[0101] Referring to Fig. 11, a battery pack (3) according to the present invention may include at least one battery module (10) according to the present invention described above. In addition, the battery pack (3) according to the present invention may include a pack case (50) capable of accommodating the at least one battery module (10). At this time, the pack case (50) may include a lower case (51) and a pack cover (52). The pack cover (52) may be configured to cover the upper portion of the battery module (10) from the upper portion of the lower case. For example, the pack cover (52) may be configured as a roughly plate-shaped structure that covers the upper portion of the battery pack. For example, the pack cover (52) may have a structure in which at least a portion of the structure is roughly plate-shaped and protrudes upward.

[0102] In one aspect of the present invention, the pack cover (52) may be positioned to be spaced apart from the frame cover (300) of the battery module (10) accommodated inside the battery pack (3) by a predetermined distance to ensure smooth movement of venting gas.

[0103] In addition, in addition to the battery module (10), other various components may be included, such as components of the battery pack (3) known at the time of application of the present invention, such as a BMS, a pack case, a relay, a current sensor, etc.

[0104] In addition, in addition to the battery module (10), other various components may be included, such as components of the battery pack (3) known at the time of application of the present invention, such as a BMS, a pack case, a relay, a current sensor, etc.

[0105] Fig. 12 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a conventional battery pack, and Fig. 13 is a drawing for explaining a case where a thermal event occurs within the conventional battery pack of Fig. 12.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the conventional battery pack does not include a support plate (400). That is, a predetermined space exists between the frame cover (300) of the battery module (10) and the pack cover (52) of the battery pack, but the conventional battery pack does not include a support plate (400) that supports the predetermined space. Meanwhile, a fire-resistant cover (60) is attached or applied to prevent the pack cover (52) of the battery pack from being destroyed by flames during thermal propagation (TP) of the battery module (10).

[0107] However, as shown in FIG. 13, when a thermal event occurs in some battery modules (10), the flame emitted from the frame cover (300) of the battery module (10) progresses toward the fireproof cover (60) provided on the inner surface of the pack cover (52) of the battery pack. At this time, the temperature of the flame when the heat propagates in the battery module (10) approaches approximately 1000 degrees Celsius, so the adhesive applied between the fireproof cover (60) and the pack cover (52) melts, causing the fireproof cover (60) to detach from the pack cover (52) and fall downward. That is, the conventional battery pack has a problem in that it does not have a structure that can prevent detachment of the fireproof cover (60). In this way, when the fireproof cover (60) falls on the battery module (10), the venting hole (310) of the battery module (10) is blocked, which is detrimental to the heat propagation prevention technology of the battery module (10). For example, if the refractory cover (60) is detached or fragments fall, it blocks the venting hole (310) provided in the frame cover (300) of the battery module (10), which becomes a factor hindering gas venting, and this becomes a factor accelerating the heat propagation speed inside the battery module (10).

[0108] The present invention recognizes these problems and aims to prevent the fireproof cover (60) from falling off. Furthermore, the present invention aims to prevent fragments, such as some fragments destroyed by heat, from falling onto the battery module (10). A structure for achieving these objectives will be described below with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0109] FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining a case where a thermal event occurs within the battery pack of FIG. 14.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 14, the battery pack may further include a fire-resistant cover (60). The fire-resistant cover (60) may be provided on the inner surface of the pack cover (52). The fire-resistant cover (60) may include a fire-resistant material that can withstand high temperatures or flames. The fire-resistant cover (60) may be made of, or partially include, mica, for example.

[0111] The above-mentioned fireproof cover (60) may be interposed between the pack cover (52) and the support plate (400). In particular, the fireproof cover (60) may be positioned in the inner space of the pack cover (52). Preferably, the fireproof cover (60) may be provided in a form attached to the inner surface of the pack cover (52). For example, the fireproof cover (60) may be attached to the inner surface of the pack cover (52) using an adhesive.

[0112] According to this structure, it is possible to prevent flames generated in the battery module (10) from spreading to the pack cover (52) of the battery pack. In addition, it is possible to prevent fire from spreading to other adjacent areas within the battery module (10) where a thermal event occurred.

[0113] Referring again to FIGS. 14 and 15, the support plate (400) may be provided in the space between the fireproof cover (60) and the battery module (10). Preferably, the support plate (400) may be configured to support the fireproof cover (60) in a direction toward the pack cover (52). More specifically, the main body (410) of the support plate (400) may support the fireproof cover (60) in a direction toward the pack cover (52). That is, the main body (410) may support the fireproof cover (60) upward. That is, the support plate (400) may be restricted from moving in the vertical direction by the end plate (500) and the pack cover (52). In other words, the support plate (400) may be restrained in the vertical direction by the end plate (500) and the pack cover (52). More specifically, the support plate (400) can be restrained in the vertical direction by the bottom surface of the recess (500R) and the inner surface of the pack cover (52). The support plate (400) can maintain a predetermined space between the frame cover (300) of the battery module (10) and the pack cover (52) of the battery pack.

[0114] At this time, the support plate (400) may be configured to make surface contact with at least a portion of the refractory cover (60). That is, the main body (410) may be configured to be in contact with the refractory cover (60).

[0115] According to this configuration, even if a thermal event of the battery module (10) occurs inside the battery pack as shown in FIG. 15 and the adhesiveness of the fireproof cover (60) provided on the inner surface of the pack cover (52) of the battery pack becomes weak due to heat, the fireproof cover (60) can be effectively prevented from falling onto the battery module (10). That is, even if the adhesive that adheres the fireproof cover (60) melts when the main body (410) contacts the fireproof cover (60), the fireproof cover (60) can be prevented from being detached.

[0116] In addition, according to the above configuration, the fireproof cover (60) can be prevented from blocking the venting hole (310) of the battery module (10), thereby allowing smooth venting of flames or gases. In addition, according to the above configuration, since the main body (410) supports the fireproof cover (60) upward, the fireproof cover (60) can be prevented from falling off, while the flow of venting gas can be prevented due to the mesh structure (411) of the main body (410).

[0117] Fig. 16 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle (5) including the battery pack (3) of Fig. 11.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 16, a vehicle (5) according to the present invention may include at least one battery pack (3) according to the present invention. The vehicle (5) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle, and includes a battery pack (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (5) includes a four-wheeled vehicle and a two-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle (5) operates by receiving power from the battery pack (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the vehicle (5) according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery cell (110) or the battery pack (3). For example, the vehicle (5) according to the present invention may further include a body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc. in addition to the battery cell (110) according to the present invention.

[0119] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up and down are used in this specification, 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] The present invention provides a battery module and a battery pack that can prevent a fireproof cover provided on the inner surface of a top cover of the battery pack from being detached toward the battery module even when heat propagation occurs in a battery module included in the battery pack.

Claims

1. A cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells; A module case configured to accommodate the above cell assembly in an internal space; A frame cover covering the cell assembly on the upper part of the module case and having at least one venting hole; and A support plate configured to form a predetermined space between the above frame cover A battery module including:

2. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the support plate is configured to form an empty space in the surrounding area of ​​a venting hole provided on the upper portion of the battery module.

3. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the support plate is configured to have a structure protruding upward from the frame cover.

4. In paragraph 1, The above support plate, a main body extending in a horizontal direction; and At least one leg portion extending vertically from the main body portion A battery module characterized by including:

5. In paragraph 4, A battery module characterized in that the main body is configured to be spaced apart from the frame cover of the battery module by a predetermined distance.

6. In paragraph 4, A battery module characterized in that the main body includes a mesh net and a flange provided along the edge of the mesh net.

7. In paragraph 4, A battery module characterized in that the leg portion includes a horizontal extension portion extending in a horizontal direction and a vertical extension portion extending in a vertical direction by bending from an end of the horizontal extension portion.

8. In paragraph 4, A battery module characterized by including an end plate coupled to one longitudinal side and the other longitudinal side of the module case to cover both longitudinal ends of the cell assembly.

9. In paragraph 8, The end plate includes at least one recess dug inward from the surface, A battery module characterized in that the leg portion is mounted on the recess provided in the end plate of the battery module.

10. At least one battery module as described in any one of claims 1 to 9; A lower case accommodating the above battery module; A pack cover configured to cover the upper portion of the battery module from the upper portion of the lower case; A fireproof cover provided on the inner surface of the above pack cover Battery pack containing.

11. In paragraph 10, A battery pack characterized in that the above refractory cover comprises a mica material.

12. In paragraph 10, A battery pack characterized in that the support plate is provided in a space between the refractory cover and the battery module and is configured to support the refractory cover in a direction toward the pack cover.

13. In paragraph 10, A battery pack characterized in that the support plate is configured to be in surface contact with at least a portion of the refractory cover.

14. A vehicle characterized by including at least one battery pack as described in paragraph 10.

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