Battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

A battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a plurality of battery cells; a module case accommodating the plurality of battery cells, and provided with venting holes penetrating at least one side; and a first shield member provided between the plurality of battery cells and module case to allow venting gas generated in the battery cells to pass through.

Description

Battery module, battery pack including the same, and automobile

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

[0002] The present application is a priority application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0124123 filed on September 11, 2024 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0023739 filed on February 24, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said applications are incorporated into the present application by reference.

[0003] Secondary batteries, which possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density and high applicability across product groups, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources. These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for enhancing eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only for the primary advantage of drastically reducing the use of fossil fuels but also because they generate no by-products from energy use.

[0004] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When a high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Additionally, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery module or battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery module or pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] Meanwhile, since battery cells involve chemical reactions during charging and discharging, their performance may degrade if used in environments higher than the optimal temperature; furthermore, if thermal control is not maintained at the appropriate temperature, there is a constant risk of unexpected ignition or explosion. Additionally, battery modules are structured to house these battery cells intensively within a module housing. Therefore, if a thermal event occurs in any single battery cell, the emitted high-temperature gases and flames can spread to adjacent cells, potentially leading to a chain reaction of explosions, making this situation extremely dangerous.

[0006] Accordingly, in the case of conventional battery modules, venting holes are provided in the module case to allow venting gases or flames to be discharged to the outside of the module case. However, venting gases or flames discharged to the outside through these venting holes can flow back into the interior of the module case through the venting holes. In such cases, heat can spread to adjacent battery cells, potentially causing thermal runaway in the battery module.

[0007] In addition, generally when gas is ejected from a battery cell, fragments of electrode plates or active materials inside the battery cell may be released to the outside while heated to high temperatures, and these high-temperature particles may appear in the form of sparks.

[0008] In such conventional battery modules, sparks may be exposed to the outside through venting holes and react with oxygen outside the battery module to generate flames or develop into a fire. Furthermore, if flames or a fire occur outside a specific battery module, the fire may spread to adjacent battery modules or devices equipped with such modules, potentially causing more serious problems.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure that, in the event of thermal runaway in a battery module, expels high-temperature gases or flames generated inside the battery module to the outside to prevent heat accumulation within the battery module, while simultaneously preventing the expelled gases or flames from re-entering the battery module.

[0010] In addition, there is a need for technology to prevent sparks from being exposed to the outside of the battery module through venting holes, thereby suppressing the occurrence or spread of flames or fire outside the battery module.

[0011] Therefore, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery module that can effectively prevent or delay the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells by smoothly discharging gases or flames generated inside the battery module to the outside of the battery module when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module.

[0012] In addition, another problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery module with improved safety and reliability by preventing gases or flames emitted to the outside of the battery module from re-entering the battery module when thermal runaway occurs.

[0013] However, the problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.

[0014] To solve the above problem, the present invention provides a battery module characterized by comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a module case configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells and having a venting hole formed by penetrating at least one side; and a first blocking member provided between the plurality of battery cells and the module case and configured to allow venting gas generated from the battery cells to pass through.

[0015] The first blocking member can be configured in the form of a sheet.

[0016] The first blocking member may be configured to have gas permeability.

[0017] The first blocking member may have an incision configured to be opened by the venting gas.

[0018] The first blocking member may be configured to form a discharge hole as the cut portion is opened.

[0019] The above-mentioned incision may be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the venting hole.

[0020] The above-mentioned incision may be positioned at a location corresponding to the above-mentioned venting hole.

[0021] The above incision may be positioned at an offset from the above venting hole.

[0022] A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a second blocking member provided on at least one side of the first blocking member.

[0023] The second blocking member may be configured to fill the space between the first blocking member and the module case.

[0024] The second blocking member may be configured to allow the venting gas to pass through.

[0025] The second blocking member may have an opening configured to be opened by the venting gas.

[0026] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0027] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery module according to the present invention.

[0028] According to one aspect of the present invention, a first blocking member and / or a second blocking member configured to allow venting gas to pass through is provided, so that high-temperature gas or flames generated in the battery cell during an abnormal situation of the battery cell can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery module, thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells.

[0029] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, the safety and reliability of the battery module can be ensured by preventing high-temperature gases or flames generated in the battery cell from flowing back into the battery module in the event of an abnormal situation of the battery cell.

[0030] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, sparks or flames generated during abnormal conditions of a battery cell or battery module are suppressed from being exposed to the outside of the pack case, thereby minimizing thermal damage to adjacent battery modules.

[0031] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, a second blocking member is provided in the empty space on the upper inner side of the battery module, so that the flow of heat or flame in the empty space can be suppressed, thereby minimizing thermal damage to battery cells other than the trigger cell.

[0032] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, events such as fire or explosion caused by thermal runaway phenomena in a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules or a device equipped with them can be prevented or delayed.

[0033] In addition to the above, the present invention may have various other effects, which are described in each embodiment, or effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art, etc., will be omitted.

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

[0035] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 may be a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0038] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view as a comparative example in which a first blocking member is not applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of a first blocking member included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a top view of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0046] Therefore, 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; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0047] In addition, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar configurations are omitted, and the focus is on the differences.

[0048] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used in the present invention, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the position of the object or the position of the observer, as is obvious to those skilled in the art of the present invention.

[0049] For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the X-axis direction shown in the drawing may mean the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may mean the front-back direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), i.e., the length direction of the battery cell, and the Z-axis direction may mean the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0050]

[0051] FIG. 1 is an overall 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. In addition, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 may be a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (100), a module case (200), and a first blocking member (300).

[0053] The above battery cells (100) may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple battery cells (100) may be provided stacked in one direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, multiple battery cells (100) may be stacked along the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0054] A battery cell (100) may include an electrode assembly and a cell case that accommodates the electrode assembly. Additionally, a plurality of battery cells (100) may each be provided with an electrode lead. The electrode lead is connected to the electrode assembly and extends outward from the cell case to function as an electrode terminal.

[0055] The present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of such battery cell (100), and various battery cells (100) known at the time of filing the present invention may be employed. In this embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking is used as shown in the drawing, but it is understood that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries may be applied as battery cells (100).

[0056] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the battery module (10) of the present invention may further include a busbar frame assembly (500). The busbar frame assembly (500) may be provided inside the module case (200) and configured to cover at least one side of a plurality of battery cells (100). In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the busbar frame assembly (500) may be coupled to the front and rear of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0057] The busbar frame assembly (500) may include a busbar frame (510) and a plurality of busbars (520). The busbar frame (510) may be configured to be coupled to the front and rear of approximately a plurality of battery cells (100). The busbar frame (510) may have slits that allow the electrode leads of the battery cells (100) to be drawn out in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction. Additionally, the busbar frame (510) may be formed of a material having electrical insulation properties, such as plastic, and configured to allow busbars (520) to be attached to its outer surface.

[0058] Multiple busbars (520) are made of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc., and can be provided in the form of rods as a means for connecting battery cells (100) in series and / or in parallel. The electrode leads of the battery cells (100) pass through a slit in the busbar frame (510) and are drawn out to the outside of the busbar frame (510), and the drawn-out portion can be attached to the surface of the busbar (520) by means such as welding.

[0059] The above module case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). Specifically, the module case (200) may have an internal space formed therein and may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100) in the internal space.

[0060] These module cases (200) may be made of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the accommodated battery cells (100).

[0061] A venting hole (H) may be formed in the module case (200). The venting hole (H) may be formed on at least one side of the module case (200). The venting hole (H) may be formed by penetrating one side of the module case (200). The venting hole (H) may be configured to discharge exhausts, such as venting gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100), to the outside of the module case (200). Directional venting in one direction may be possible through the venting hole (H).

[0062] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, a venting hole (H) may be formed on the upper surface of the module case (200). This allows for directional venting of the battery module (10) upward through the venting hole (H).

[0063] Venting holes (H) may be provided in multiple numbers and may be arranged at regular intervals from each other in the horizontal direction (X-axis, Y-axis direction).

[0064] The upper surfaces of the battery cell (100) and the module case (200) may be provided spaced apart by a predetermined distance. At this time, the first blocking member (300) may be provided between a plurality of battery cells (100) and the module case (200). The first blocking member (300) may be configured to cover at least partially the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0065] Additionally, the first blocking member (300) may be configured to allow venting gas to pass through. Specifically, venting gas or flame and / or heat directed toward the venting hole (H) may be discharged to the outside through the first blocking member (300) (see bold arrow in FIG. 3).

[0066] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, high-temperature gas or flames generated in the battery cell during an abnormal situation of the battery cell (100) can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10), thereby effectively preventing or delaying the propagation of thermal runaway between the battery cells (100).

[0067] Furthermore, the first blocking member (300) can be configured to maintain a state of covering other battery cells (100) even if a thermal event occurs in any battery cell (100).

[0068] Accordingly, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, gas or flame discharged to the outside of the module case (200) can be prevented from flowing back into the battery module (10). In addition, the first blocking member (300) can block not only heat but also high-temperature gas, flame, discharge, etc. generated from the battery cell (100).

[0069] The first blocking member (300) may include a material having fire resistance. Additionally, the first blocking member (300) may include a material having heat resistance. For example, the first blocking member (300) may be provided with a mica sheet, etc. Thus, since shrinkage does not occur even when high-temperature heat is generated, the first blocking member (300) can maintain structural stability, thereby stably blocking high-temperature gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100).

[0070] Alternatively, for example, the first blocking member (300) may be provided with glass fiber or the like, which has breathability and fire resistance. Thus, since the first blocking member (300) may not be damaged even if a flame occurs, high-temperature gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100) can pass through the first blocking member (300) and be discharged to the outside.

[0071] Furthermore, the first blocking member (300) may include a material having thermal insulation properties. Thus, even if high-temperature heat is generated, the movement of heat to the outside of the first blocking member (300) can be suppressed.

[0072] Alternatively, the first blocking member (300) may be composed of a composite material consisting of a fire-resistant layer and an insulating layer. However, the material of the first blocking member (300) is not limited to the material described above.

[0073] The first blocking member (300) may be configured in the form of a sheet. The first blocking member (300) may be configured as a sheet with a very thin thickness. Additionally, the first blocking member (300) may be configured to correspond to the size or shape of one side of the module case (200) where the venting hole (H) is formed.

[0074] The first blocking member (300) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H) from the inside. In this case, the first blocking member (300) may be configured in the form of a sheet and seated on the battery cells (100). The first blocking member (300) may be configured to cover a plurality of venting holes (H) at once.

[0075] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flames generated in a battery cell (100) can pass through the first blocking member (300) more smoothly and quickly.

[0076]

[0077] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the module case (200) may be provided with a case body (210) and a top plate (220). The case body (210) may be configured so that at least the top surface is open. For example, the case body (210) may be configured so that the top surface, front surface, and rear surface are open. That is, the case body (210) may be provided as a U-frame.

[0078] The case body (210) may be made of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the accommodated battery cell (100).

[0079] The top plate (220) may be provided to form the upper surface of the module case (200). The top plate (220) may be attached to the open upper surface of the case body (210). The top plate (220) may be welded to the case body (210) to be joined together. At this time, the combined shape of the top plate (220) and the case body (210) may be a rectangular tubular shape with the front and rear sides open.

[0080] Meanwhile, the module case (200) may include an end plate (230) provided on the open front and rear of the case body (210). The end plate (230) may be welded to the case body (210). Meanwhile, although not illustrated for convenience, the end plate (230) may, for example, be made of an insulating material on the inside and a metal material on the outside. Additionally, the end plate (230) may be partially provided with holes or slits to expose parts that need to be exposed to the outside, such as the positive terminal and negative terminal or connector of the battery module (10).

[0081] In addition, the module case (200) may be formed in various other forms. For example, the module case (200) may have a box-shaped lower case having an upper open end and an upper cover that closes the upper open end of the lower case.

[0082]

[0083] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view as a comparative example in which a first blocking member is not applied to a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] If, as in the comparative example shown in FIG. 4, the first blocking member (300) is not provided in the battery module (10), venting gas or flames discharged outward through the venting hole (H) may be reflected inward by a structure outside the battery module (10), such as a pack case (2), and then flow back into the module case (200) through the venting hole (H). In this case, heat may spread to adjacent battery cells (100), causing thermal runaway of the battery module (10). Additionally, sparks may be exposed outward through the venting hole (H) and react with oxygen outside the battery module (10) to generate flames or develop into a fire.

[0085] However, as the battery module (10) of the present invention is equipped with a first blocking member (300), high-temperature gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100) in the event of an abnormal situation of the battery cell (100) can be prevented from flowing back into the battery module (10).

[0086] That is, since the battery module (10) of the present invention includes a first blocking member (300), when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module (10), not only can venting gas or flames generated inside the battery module (10) be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10), but the discharged venting gas or flames can also be prevented from flowing back into the battery module (10). Therefore, since thermal runaway propagation can be effectively prevented or delayed by minimizing heat propagation to neighboring battery cells (100), the safety and reliability of the battery module (10) can be guaranteed.

[0087]

[0088] Hereinafter, various embodiments of a first blocking member (300) configured to allow venting gas to pass through will be described.

[0089] For example, the first blocking member (300) may be configured to have gas permeability. That is, the first blocking member (300) may be composed of a material that has breathability. For instance, the first blocking member (300) may be made of a material such as ceramic fiber, silica fiber, or glass fiber. However, the material of the first blocking member (300) is not limited to these, and may be made of any other material that has breathability.

[0090] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flame and / or heat can pass through the first blocking member (300) and be discharged to the outside of the module case (200) without rupture or damage to the first blocking member (300).

[0091] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, since the first blocking member (300) can maintain a state of covering other battery cells (100), venting gas or flames discharged to the outside through the open venting hole (H) can be fundamentally prevented from flowing back into the module case (200).

[0092]

[0093] As another example, the first blocking member (300) may be configured such that at least a portion of it is ruptured by venting gas. The first blocking member (300) may be made of a material that can be ruptured. For example, the first blocking member (300) may be made of fireproof paper.

[0094] Specifically, at least a portion of the first blocking member (300) may be ruptured by the pressure or heat of the venting gas directed toward the venting hole (H). Thus, when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell (100), the first blocking member (300) provided on one side of the specific battery cell (100) may rupture and open to allow the venting gas or flames to be discharged. Accordingly, the venting gas, etc., may be discharged to the outside of the first blocking member (300) through the open portion of the first blocking member (300).

[0095] That is, in a normal state, the first blocking member (300) can cover the battery cells (100) to protect the battery cells (100) inside the module case (200). However, if a thermal event occurs in which venting gas or flames are generated in some battery cells (100), at least a part of the first blocking member (300) may rupture and open at least a part of the venting hole (H).

[0096] Thus, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the first blocking member (300) may rupture, allowing gas or flames to pass through the first blocking member (300) and head toward the venting hole (H). Accordingly, gas or flames can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the battery module (10).

[0097]

[0098] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of a first blocking member included in a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] As another example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the first blocking member (300) may have an incision (S). The incision (S) may be configured to be opened by venting gas. The incision (S) may be configured so that the vented venting gas or flame, etc., are directed toward the venting hole (H).

[0100] In one embodiment, the first blocking member (300) may be provided with a breathable sheet and may have a cut portion (S). Alternatively, in one embodiment, the first blocking member (300) may be provided with a non-breathable sheet and may have a cut portion (S). Alternatively, in one embodiment, the first blocking member (300) may be provided with a composite material composed of a fire-resistant layer and an insulating layer and may have a cut portion (S).

[0101] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), gas or flame generated within the battery module (10) can be discharged to the outside of the module case (200) by passing through the first blocking member (300) through the open cut section (S).

[0102] The incision (S) can be formed by methods such as cutting or notching. The incision (S) can be provided in a predetermined local area. Multiple incisions (S) can be provided. The incisions (S) can be provided at regular intervals from each other in the horizontal direction (X-axis and / or Y-axis direction). For example, multiple incisions (S) can be formed in a line along the length direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cell (100).

[0103] The cut portion (S) may be configured in a straight line. For example, the cut portion (S) may be configured to extend along the length direction of the venting hole (H). Alternatively, the cut portion (S) may be configured to extend along the width direction of the venting hole (H). However, the shape of the cut portion (S) is not limited thereto.

[0104] As a more specific example, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the cut portion (S) may be configured in the form of a slit. Accordingly, as venting gas or flames are ejected intensively in a localized area, a part of the sheet of the first blocking member (300) may be lifted by pressure, and the cut portion (S) may be opened.

[0105] The first blocking member (300) may be configured such that a discharge hole (E) is formed as the cut portion (S) is opened. The discharge hole (E) may be configured so that a fluid, such as venting gas or flame, that travels along the interface of the first blocking member (300) may be discharged to the outside.

[0106] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), gas or flame generated within the battery module (10) can be discharged to the outside of the module case (200) by passing through the first blocking member (300) through the open cut section (S).

[0107] Thus, when an abnormal situation occurs in the battery cell (100), venting gas or flames, etc. are quickly discharged to the outside of the module case (200) through the venting hole (H), thereby preventing the internal pressure inside the module case (200) from rising and preventing additional chain ignition of other battery cells (100).

[0108] In particular, the discharge hole (E) may be formed on a vertical surface. In this case, the vertical surface may mean a state in which it is set up at exactly 90 degrees, as well as a state in which it is set up approximately vertically. Additionally, the discharge hole (E) may be configured to be open toward a horizontal direction, such as left or right. Accordingly, the discharge discharged from the battery cell (100) in an approximately vertical direction may be discharged in a horizontal direction through the discharge hole (E).

[0109] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the discharge direction of venting gas or flame, etc. is naturally bent by the first blocking member (300) and can be vented diagonally or horizontally through the cut portion (S).

[0110] Accordingly, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the discharge direction of venting gas or flame, etc., can be bent or changed to a horizontal direction so that it is discharged directly to the upper side.

[0111] In the comparative example illustrated in FIG. 4, since venting gas or flames are discharged vertically through the venting hole (H), they may be reflected off other structures outside the battery module (10), such as the pack case (2), and re-enter the battery module (10). However, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flames can be discharged at an angle through the cut section (S), so the possibility of them being reflected off other structures outside the battery module (10) can be minimized. As a result, high-temperature gas or flames can be suppressed from re-entering the interior of the module case (200).

[0112] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, sparks, etc. are reflected by the lifted first blocking member (300), thereby suppressing the discharge of sparks, etc. to the outside. Accordingly, sparks, etc. generated during abnormal conditions of the battery cell (100) or battery module (10) are suppressed from being exposed to the outside of the battery module through the venting hole, thereby suppressing or preventing the occurrence or spread of flames or fire outside the battery module.

[0113]

[0114] FIG. 6 is a top view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the cut portion (S) may be positioned at a location corresponding to the venting hole (H). The cut portion (S) may be provided at the bottom of the venting hole (H). The cut portion (S) may be configured so that venting gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100) are directed directly toward the venting hole (H).

[0116] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flames discharged through the discharge hole (E) formed between the cut portions (S) can be rapidly directed toward the venting hole (H) and discharged to the outside of the module case (200). Accordingly, the accumulation of heat inside the battery module (10) is suppressed, and the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells (100) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0117]

[0118] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Alternatively, as another embodiment, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the cut portion (S) may be positioned at an offset from the venting hole (H). That is, the cut portion (S) may be located between the venting holes (H). The cut portion (S) may be provided between adjacent venting holes (H) among a plurality of venting holes (H). In other words, the cut portion may be formed in a part corresponding to the main body of the top plate (220).

[0120] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as venting gas or flames are concentrated in the cut portion (S) and an exhaust hole (E) is formed by the pressure, the venting gas or flames are discharged obliquely to the outside of the first blocking member (300) through the exhaust hole (E) and can strike the main body of the top plate (220) and head toward the venting hole (H).

[0121] That is, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, venting gas or flame, etc., can be vented to the outside of the module case (200) by being bent at least once. Accordingly, when venting gas or flame, etc., discharged through the discharge hole (E) is discharged through the venting hole (H), it can be prevented from colliding with other structures outside the battery module (10), such as the pack case (2), and flowing back into the battery module (10) through the open discharge hole (E).

[0122] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, direct damage to the battery cell (100) by high-temperature sparks, etc., can be minimized.

[0123]

[0124] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 7 and 8, etc., a battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a second blocking member (400). The second blocking member (400) may be interposed in the space between the battery cell (100) and the module case (200). The second blocking member (400) may be configured in the form of a pad having a predetermined thickness.

[0125] The second blocking member (400) may include a material having excellent heat resistance, fire resistance, and / or thermal insulation properties. For example, the second blocking member (400) may be made of a material such as silicone, polyurethane, or aerogel. However, the material of the second blocking member (400) is not limited thereto.

[0126] The second blocking member (400) may be provided on at least one side of the first blocking member (300). The second blocking member (400) may be configured to cover at least one side of the first blocking member (300).

[0127] For example, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the second blocking member (400) may be provided on the outside of the first blocking member. That is, the second blocking member (400) may be provided in the space between the first blocking member (300) and the module case (200). Furthermore, the second blocking member (400) may be configured to fill the space between the first blocking member (300) and the module case (200). In addition, in this case, the second blocking member (400) may be configured to cover the venting hole (H) from the inside.

[0128] Alternatively, unlike the above embodiment, the second blocking member (400) may be provided inside the first blocking member (300). That is, the second blocking member (400) may be provided in the space between the first blocking member (300) and the battery cell (100). Furthermore, the second blocking member (400) may be configured to fill the space between the first blocking member (300) and the battery cell (100).

[0129] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, a second blocking member (400) is provided in the empty space at the top of the battery module (10), thereby suppressing the flow of heat or flame in the empty space. As a result, thermal damage to battery cells (100) other than the trigger cell can be minimized.

[0130] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the inflow of oxygen into the module case (200) at the beginning of thermal runaway can be suppressed. This prevents the generation of a flame by a spark reacting with oxygen. Furthermore, by removing one of the three elements of a flame, the possibility of a flame being generated can be minimized.

[0131] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, radiant heat transferred to the battery cell (100) from a flame generated at the top of the battery module (10) and / or convective heat transferred as high-temperature gas flows can be suppressed by the second blocking member (400). Moreover, conductive heat transferred to the battery cell from high-temperature particles, etc. accumulated at the top of the battery module (10) can be suppressed by the second blocking member (400).

[0132] Furthermore, as the top plate (220) is coupled to the case body (210), the second blocking member (400) can be compressed by a force directed toward the case body (210). According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the airtightness of the space between the battery cell (100) and the top plate (220) can be improved.

[0133]

[0134] The second blocking member (400) can be configured to allow venting gas to pass through. Accordingly, when a thermal event occurs in any battery cell (100), venting gas or flame and / or heat can pass through the second blocking member (400) as well as the first blocking member (300) and head toward the venting hole (H).

[0135] For example, the second blocking member (400) may have an opening (O) configured to be opened by venting gas. As an example, the second blocking member (400) may be configured so that at least a portion thereof is thermally decomposed by venting gas. The portion of the second blocking member (400) where heat is concentrated may be thermally decomposed and opened. The opening (O) may be formed at a location corresponding to the cut portion (S). Alternatively, the opening (O) may be formed independently of the location of the cut portion (S).

[0136] Alternatively, unlike the above embodiment, the second blocking member (400) may also have a slit-shaped incision. The structure and effect of the incision of the second blocking member (400) may be the same as the structure and effect of the incision (S) of the first blocking member (300) described above.

[0137] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, high-temperature gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100) in the event of an abnormal situation of the battery cell (100) can be rapidly discharged to the outside of the module case (200) through the cut portion (S) and the opening portion (O). As a result, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells (100) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0138]

[0139] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 9, 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 a pack case (2) for accommodating components such as a Battery Management System (BMS) for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery modules, a current sensor, a fuse, etc., as described above.

[0141]

[0142] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 10, 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) includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle (3) operates by receiving power from the battery pack (1) to the battery module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0144]

[0145] Although the present invention has been described above 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 spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs.

Claims

Multiple battery cells; A module case configured to accommodate the above-mentioned plurality of battery cells and having a venting hole formed by penetrating at least one side, and A battery module characterized by including a first blocking member provided between the plurality of battery cells and the module case, configured to allow venting gas generated from the battery cells to pass through. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the first blocking member is configured in the form of a sheet. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the first blocking member is configured to have gas permeability. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized in that the first blocking member has a cut portion configured to be opened by the venting gas. In paragraph 4, A battery module characterized in that the first blocking member is configured such that a discharge hole is formed as the cut portion is opened. In paragraph 4, A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned cut portion is configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the venting hole. In paragraph 4, A battery module characterized in that the above-mentioned cut portion is positioned at a location corresponding to the above-mentioned venting hole. In paragraph 4, A battery module characterized by the above-mentioned incision being positioned at an offset from the above-mentioned venting hole. In paragraph 1, A battery module characterized by further including a second blocking member provided on at least one side of the first blocking member. In Paragraph 9, A battery module characterized in that the second blocking member is configured to fill the space between the first blocking member and the module case. In Paragraph 9, A battery module characterized in that the second blocking member is configured to allow the venting gas to pass through. In Paragraph 9, A battery module characterized in that the second blocking member has an opening configured to be opened by the venting gas. A battery pack comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12. An automobile comprising a battery module according to any one of paragraphs 1 through 12.

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