Battery pack housing and battery pack comprising same

Abstract

According to exemplary embodiments, a battery pack housing is provided. The battery pack housing may comprise: a base plate; sidewalls perpendicular to the base plate; a venting device installed in a venting hole of a sidewall; and a protector which overlaps the venting device in a first direction and is installed on the inner surface of the sidewall. The protector may include first to third plates extending in a second direction that is perpendicular to the upper surface of the base plate. The first plate may include a plurality of first holes each having a first diameter. The second plate may include a plurality of second holes each having a second diameter. The third plate may include a plurality of third holes each having a third diameter.

Description

Battery pack housing and battery pack including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack housing and a battery pack. The present application claims the benefit of Korean application No. 10-2024-0147309, filed on October 25, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002]

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. Secondary batteries are widely used as energy sources for various wireless devices such as handsets, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, as the manufacturing cost per unit capacity of secondary batteries has decreased dramatically due to improved energy density and economies of scale, and as the driving range of BEVs (battery electric vehicles) has increased to a level equivalent to that of fuel vehicles, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility.

[0004] In the current trend emphasizing secondary batteries for mobility, the primary direction of secondary battery technology development is to reduce production costs and enhance safety. Secondary batteries account for the largest share of the manufacturing cost of BEVs. Therefore, the production cost of secondary batteries is the most critical factor in increasing the market share of BEVs compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. Reducing production costs can be achieved through the reduction of raw materials, the decrease in the number of steps in the production process, and the reduction of cycle times. The safety of secondary batteries is critical as it is directly linked to the lives of mobility passengers. A key challenge for enhancing secondary battery safety is providing solutions to prevent thermal propagation and thermal runaway within the battery pack.

[0005]

[0006] The problem that the technical concept of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack with enhanced safety.

[0007]

[0008] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a battery pack housing is provided. The battery pack housing may include: a base plate; a side wall perpendicular to the base plate; a venting device installed in a venting hole of the side wall; and a protector installed on the inner surface of the side wall and overlapping with the venting device in a first direction. The protector may include first to third plates extending in a second direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the base plate. The first plate may each include a plurality of first holes having a first diameter. The second plate may each include a plurality of second holes having a second diameter. The third plate may each include a plurality of third holes having a third diameter.

[0009] The protector may further include a first vertical channel between the first plate and the second plate; a second vertical channel between the second plate and the third plate; and a third vertical channel between the third plate and the side wall.

[0010] The second plate may include a first connecting hole connecting the first and second vertical channels. The third plate may include a second connecting hole connecting the second and third vertical channels. The first connecting hole and the second connecting hole may be spaced apart in the second direction.

[0011] The size of the first diameter, the size of the second diameter, and the size of the third diameter may be the same as each other.

[0012] The central axis of each of the first holes may be spaced apart from the central axis of each of the second holes in the second direction. The central axis of each of the second holes may be spaced apart from the central axis of each of the third holes in the second direction.

[0013] The first diameter may be larger than the second diameter. The second diameter may be larger than the third diameter.

[0014] Each of the plurality of first holes may overlap in the first direction with a corresponding one among the plurality of second holes and a corresponding one among the plurality of third holes.

[0015] Each of the first diameter, the second diameter, and the third diameter may have a size of 0.5 times or more and 0.7 times or less the length of the venting hole of the side wall in the second direction.

[0016] The protector may include a fourth plate connecting the first plate and the third plate and extending in the first direction to the inner surface of the side wall; and a fifth plate extending in the first direction from the second plate to the inner surface of the side wall. The fourth plate and the fifth plate may be spaced apart in the second direction. The fourth plate may include a plurality of fourth holes. The fifth plate may include a plurality of fifth holes.

[0017] The diameter of each of the plurality of fourth holes of the fourth plate may decrease as it approaches the venting device in the first direction. The diameter of each of the plurality of fifth holes of the fifth plate may decrease as it approaches the venting device in the first direction.

[0018] The protector may further include a first corner portion where the first plate and the fourth plate meet; a second corner portion where the second plate and the fifth plate meet; and a third corner portion where the third plate and the fourth plate meet. Each of the first corner portion, the second corner portion, and the third corner portion may have a rounded shape.

[0019] The protector may further include a first corner portion where the first plate and the fourth plate meet; a second corner portion where the second plate and the fifth plate meet; and a third corner portion where the third plate and the fourth plate meet. Each of the first corner portion, the second corner portion, and the third corner portion may include a dust discharge hole.

[0020] It may include a first fixing part that is perpendicular to the fourth plate and connected to the fourth plate; and a second fixing part that is perpendicular to the fifth plate and connected to the fifth plate. Each of the first fixing part and the second fixing part may be fixed on the inner surface of the side wall.

[0021]

[0022] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, by securing an extended heat flow path within the battery pack, thermal propagation and thermal runaway of the battery pack can be prevented.

[0023] The effects obtainable from the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure belong from the following description. That is, unintended effects resulting from the implementation of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024]

[0025] FIG. 1 is a top view of a battery pack housing according to exemplary embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack housing according to exemplary embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a protector according to exemplary embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a protector according to exemplary embodiments.

[0029] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the first to third plates according to exemplary embodiments.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the first to third plates according to exemplary embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a protector according to exemplary embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a protector according to exemplary embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 9 is a top view of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0035]

[0036] 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. Instead, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of terms to best describe his invention, they should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0037] 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.

[0038] In addition, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions may obscure the essence of the invention, such detailed description is omitted.

[0039] Since embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the invention to those skilled in the art, the shapes and sizes of the components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted for clearer explanation. Accordingly, the size or proportion of each component does not entirely reflect the actual size or proportion.

[0040]

[0041] (1st embodiment)

[0042] FIG. 1 is a top view showing a battery pack housing (100) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack housing (100) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view along A-A' of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a battery pack housing (100) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of P1 of FIG. 2.

[0043] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5) of a protector (116) according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the first to third plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3) of a protector (116) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0044]

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the battery pack housing (100) may include a base plate (111B), a center beam (112), cross beams (113), side walls (114A, 114B, 114C, 114D), a venting device (115), and a protector (116).

[0046] Two directions substantially parallel to the mounting surface of the base plate (111B) are defined as the X direction and the Y direction, and a direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface of the base plate (111B) is defined as the Z direction. Each of the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction may be substantially perpendicular to one another. Unless otherwise noted, the definitions of directions are the same for the following drawings.

[0047] The center beam (112) may extend in the X direction. The center beam (112) may be located at the center of the base plate (111B). The cross beams (113) may extend in the Y direction. Each of the cross beams (113) may intersect the center beam (112). The center beam (112) may separate the battery cell assemblies mounted inside the battery pack housing (100) in the Y direction. Each of the cross beams (113) may separate the battery cell assemblies mounted inside the battery pack housing (100) in the X direction.

[0048] Side walls (114A, 114B, 114C, 114D) may horizontally surround the center beam (112) and cross beams (113). Each of the side walls (114A, 114B, 114C, 114D) may be substantially perpendicular to the base plate (111B). Each of the side walls (114A, 114B, 114C, 114D) may be located on the edge of the base plate (111B). The side wall (114A) may include venting holes (114H).

[0049] A venting device (115) may be coupled to each of the venting holes (114H) of the side wall (114A). The venting device (115) may enable the opening and closing of each venting hole (114H) that accommodates the venting device (115). According to exemplary embodiments, the venting device (115) may be a valve. When a fire event is detected inside the battery pack housing (100), the venting device (115) may be configured to open. High-temperature gases and combustion byproducts inside the battery pack housing (100) generated by the fire may be discharged to the outside of the battery pack housing (100) through the venting device (115).

[0050] The protector (116) may be placed inside the battery pack housing (100). The protector (116) may overlap with the venting device (115) in the X direction. The protector (116) may be attached to the inner surface (114AIS) of the side wall (114A). However, the attachment location of the protector (116) is not limited thereto. According to exemplary embodiments, the protector (116) may be attached to the upper surface of the base plate (111B) or the lower surface of the lead plate (111T).

[0051] According to exemplary embodiments, the length of the protector (116) in the Z direction may be greater than the length (114HZ) of the venting hole (114H) in the Z direction. According to exemplary embodiments, the length of the protector (116) in the Z direction may be substantially the same as the length (114HZ) of the venting hole (114H) in the Z direction.

[0052] The protector (116) may include first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5). Each of the first plate (116P1), the second plate (116P2), and the third plate (116P3) may extend in the Z direction. The first plate (116P1), the second plate (116P2), and the third plate (116P3) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. The first plate (116P1), the second plate (116P2), and the third plate (116P3) may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0053] The fourth plate (116P4) can connect the first plate (116P1) and the third plate (116P3) in the X direction. The fourth plate (116P4) can be substantially perpendicular to the first plate (116P1). The fourth plate (116P4) can be substantially perpendicular to the third plate (116P3). The fourth plate (116P4) can extend in the X direction to the inner surface (114AIS) of the side wall (114A). According to exemplary embodiments, the fourth plate (116P4) can be spaced apart from the second plate (116P2) in the Z direction. The fourth plate (116P4) can be connected to the connecting portion (116F1).

[0054] The fifth plate (116P5) may extend in the X direction from the second plate (116P2) to the inner surface (114AIS) of the side wall (114A). The fifth plate (116P5) may be substantially perpendicular to the second plate (116P2). According to exemplary embodiments, the fifth plate (116P5) may be spaced apart from the third plate (116P3) in the Z direction. The fifth plate (116P5) may be connected to the coupling portion (116F2).

[0055] The connecting portions (116F1, 116F2) can be connected to the inner surface (114AIS) of the side wall (114A). The protector (116) can be connected to the side wall (114A) by the connecting portions (116F1, 116F2). Each of the connecting portions (116F1, 116F2) can extend in the Z direction on the inner surface (114AIS) of the side wall (114A).

[0056] The protector (116) may include channels inside. According to exemplary embodiments, the channels inside the protector (116) may have a maze structure. The protector (116) may include a first vertical channel (116CH1), a second vertical channel (116CH2), and a third vertical channel (116CH3). The first vertical channel (116CH1) may be defined by a first plate (116P1) and a second plate (116P2). The second vertical channel (116CH2) may be defined by a second plate (116P2) and a third plate (116P3). The third vertical channel (116CH3) may be defined by a third plate (116P3) and a side wall (114A). The third vertical channel (116CH3) can overlap with the venting hole (114H) of the side wall (114A) in the X direction.

[0057] The second plate (116P2) may include a connection hole (116P2H). The first vertical channel (116CH1) and the second vertical channel (116CH2) may be connected through the connection hole (116P2H). The third plate (116P3) may include a connection hole (116P3H). The second vertical channel (116CH2) and the third vertical channel (116CH3) may be connected through the connection hole (116P3H).

[0058] However, the structure of the internal channel of the protector (116) is not limited to the structure described above. According to exemplary embodiments, the protector (116) may have an internal channel with a zigzag structure. According to exemplary embodiments, the protector (116) may have a circular maze shape.

[0059] Each of the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5) may comprise a heat-resistant material. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5) may comprise one or more of a high-temperature alloy, a ceramic, and a refractory material. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5) may comprise aluminum (Al). According to exemplary embodiments, each of the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5) may comprise steel.

[0060] In the event of a fire event occurring inside the battery pack housing (100), high-temperature gases and combustion byproducts inside the battery pack housing (100) can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack housing (100) through the protector (116) and the venting device (115). In FIG. 2, unnumbered arrows indicate the flow of gas through the internal channels (116CH1, 116CH2, 116CH3) of the protector (116). The protector (116) can extend the heat flow path by including a first vertical channel (116CH1), a second vertical channel (116CH2), and a third vertical channel (116CH3). Sparks or flames inside the battery pack housing (100) can be dissipated by passing through the internal vertical channels (116CH1, 116CH2, 116CH3) of the protector (116) and striking the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5). Sparks or flames inside the battery pack housing (100) can be naturally extinguished by the extended flow path inside the protector (116). Additionally, the extended flow path inside the protector (116) can prevent or restrict the inflow of oxygen from the outside of the battery pack housing (100) into the inside. As a result, internal ignition of the battery pack housing (100) can be delayed, and flame leakage from the inside of the battery pack housing (100) to the outside can be prevented.

[0061] Each of the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5) may include a plurality of holes.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 4, the first plate (116P1) may include first holes (141). Each first hole (141) may have a first diameter (141D). The second plate (116P2) may include second holes (142). Each second hole (142) may have a second diameter (142D). The third plate (116P3) may include third holes (143). Each third hole (143) may have a third diameter (143D). According to exemplary embodiments, the first diameter (141D) of each first hole (141) may be larger than the second diameter (142D) of each second hole (142). According to exemplary embodiments, the second diameter (142D) of each second hole (142) may be larger than the third diameter (143D) of each third hole (143).

[0063] The diameter (141D) of each of the first holes (141) may be smaller than the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H). According to exemplary embodiments, the diameter (141D) of each of the first holes (141) may be at least about 0.5 times and at least about 0.7 times the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H). The diameter (142D) of each of the second holes (142) may be smaller than the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H). According to exemplary embodiments, the diameter (142D) of each of the second holes (142) may be at least about 0.5 times and at least about 0.7 times the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H). The diameter (143D) of each of the third holes (143) may be smaller than the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H). According to exemplary embodiments, the diameter (143D) of each of the third holes (143) may be at least about 0.5 times and at least about 0.7 times the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H).

[0064] The fourth plate (116P4) may include fourth holes (144A, 144B, 144C). The fourth holes (144A) may overlap with the first vertical channel (116CH1) in the Z direction. The fourth holes (144B) may overlap with the second vertical channel (116CH2) in the Z direction. The fourth holes (144C) may overlap with the third vertical channel (116CH3) in the Z direction. Each of the fourth holes (114A) may have a diameter (114AD). Each of the fourth holes (114B) may have a diameter (114BD). Each of the fourth holes (114C) may have a diameter (114CD). The diameter (114AD) of each of the fourth holes (114A) may be larger than the diameter (114BD) of each of the fourth holes (114B). The diameter (114BD) of each of the fourth holes (114B) may be larger than the diameter (114CD) of each of the fourth holes (114C). According to exemplary embodiments, the size of each diameter (144AD, 144BD, 144CD) of the fourth holes (144A, 144B, 144C) may decrease as it approaches the venting device (115) in the X direction.

[0065] The diameter (144AD, 114BD, 144CD) of each of the fourth holes (144A, 144B, 144C) may be smaller than the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H). According to exemplary embodiments, the diameter (144AD, 114BD, 144CD) of each of the fourth holes (144A, 144B, 144C) may be at least about 0.5 times and at least about 0.7 times the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H).

[0066] The fifth plate (116P5) may include fifth holes (145A, 145B). The fifth holes (145A) may overlap with the second vertical channel (116CH2) in the Z direction. The fifth holes (145B) may overlap with the third vertical channel (116CH3) in the Z direction. Each of the fifth holes (145A) may have a diameter (145AD). Each of the fifth holes (145B) may have a diameter (145BD). The diameter (145AD) of each of the fifth holes (145A) may be larger than the diameter (145BD) of each of the fifth holes (145B). According to exemplary embodiments, the diameter (145AD, 145BD) of each of the fifth holes (145A, 145B) may decrease as it approaches the venting device (115) in the X direction.

[0067] The diameter (145AD, 145BD) of each of the fifth holes (145A, 145B) may be smaller than the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H). According to exemplary embodiments, the diameter (145AD, 145BD) of each of the fifth holes (145A, 145B) may be at least about 0.5 times and at least about 0.7 times the length (114HZ) along the Z direction of the venting hole (114H).

[0068] Referring to FIG. 5, each first hole (141) may overlap in the X direction with a corresponding second hole (142). Each second hole (142) may overlap in the X direction with a corresponding third hole (143). Each of the first holes (141) of the first plate (116P1) may have a first central axis (C1). Each of the second holes (142) of the second plate (116P2) may have a second central axis (C2). Each of the third holes (143) of the third plate (116P3) may have a third central axis (C3). According to exemplary embodiments, the first central axis (C1), the second central axis (C2), and the third central axis (C3) may coincide.

[0069] Gas inside the battery pack housing (100) can pass through the internal channels (116CH1, 116CH2, 116CH3) of the protector (116) and be discharged to the outside through the venting device (115). If an ignition event occurs inside the battery pack housing (100), high-temperature gas and combustion byproducts may be generated inside the battery pack housing (100). The high-temperature gas and combustion byproducts inside the battery pack housing (100) collide with the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5) and can pass through the internal channels (116CH1, 116CH2, 116CH3). The protector (116) according to the present invention includes first holes (141) of a first plate (116P1), second holes (142) of a second plate (116P2), third holes (143) of a third plate (116P3), fourth holes (144A, 144B, 144C) of a fourth plate (116P4), and fifth holes (145A, 145B) of a fifth plate (116P5), so that when gas inside the battery pack housing (100) passes through the protector (116), combustion by-products contained in the gas can be discharged to the outside of the protector (116) through the holes (141, 142, 143, 144A, 144B, 144C, 145A, 145B). As a result, the problem of combustion byproducts accumulating inside the protector (116) and blocking the internal channels (116CH1, 116CH2, 116CH3) can be prevented.

[0070] According to exemplary embodiments, the first to fifth holes (141, 142, 143, 144A, 144B, 144C, 145A, 145B) may have a diameter that decreases as they approach the venting device (115) in the X direction. The protector (116) may include the first to fifth holes (141, 142, 143, 144A, 144B, 144C, 145A, 145B) of different sizes to remove dust of various sizes contained in the gas inside the battery pack housing (100). The flow of gas passing through the vertical channels (116CH1, 116CH2, 116CH3) of the protector (116) is maintained, while the problem of the venting device (115) and the vertical channels (116CH1, 116CH2, 116CH3) of the protector (116) being blocked by combustion byproducts such as dust can be resolved.

[0071]

[0072] (2nd Example)

[0073] FIG. 6 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing parts of the first to third plates (116P1', 116P2', 116P3') of a protector (116') according to exemplary embodiments.

[0074] Hereinafter, the configurations of the second embodiment, which differ from the first embodiment, will be described in detail. The remaining configurations may be described as described above in FIGS. 1 to 5.

[0075]

[0076] Referring to FIG. 6, the first plate (116P1') may include first holes (141') each having a first diameter (141D'). The second plate (116P2') may include second holes (142') each having a second diameter (142D'). The third plate (116P3') may include third holes (143') each having a third diameter (143D'). According to exemplary embodiments, the size of the first diameter (141D') may be substantially the same as the size of the second diameter (142D'). According to exemplary embodiments, the size of the second diameter (142D') may be substantially the same as the size of the third diameter (143D').

[0077] Each first hole (141') may have a central axis (C1'). Each second hole (142') may have a central axis (C2'). Each third hole (143') may have a central axis (C3'). According to exemplary embodiments, the central axis (C1') of each first hole (141') may not be aligned with the central axis (C2') of each second hole (142') in the Z direction. According to exemplary embodiments, the central axis (C2') of each second hole (142') may not be aligned with the central axis (C3') of each third hole (143') in the Z direction. According to exemplary embodiments, each first hole (141') may not overlap with each second hole (142') in the X direction. According to exemplary embodiments, each second hole (142') may not overlap with each third hole (143') in the X direction.

[0078] High-temperature gas and combustion byproducts passing through the protector (116) may collide with the internal plates (116P1', 116P2', 116P3') in an irregular direction. The protector (116) includes first holes (141') of the first plate (116P1'), second holes (142') of the second plate (116P2'), and third holes (143') of the third plate (116P3') that are not aligned with each other in the X direction, thereby efficiently discharging combustion byproducts contained in the gas to the outside of the protector (116). This prevents clogging caused by the accumulation of combustion byproducts inside the venting device (115) or inside the protector (116).

[0079]

[0080] (3rd Example)

[0081] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a protector (116'') according to exemplary embodiments.

[0082] In FIG. 7, for components having the same reference numerals as FIG. 1 to FIG. 5, the description above in the first embodiment may be applied, and the same description will be omitted. Hereinafter, the components of the third embodiment that differ from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0083]

[0084] Referring to FIG. 7, the protector (116'') may include a first corner portion (116ED1) where the first plate (116P1) and the fourth plate (116P4) are connected, a second corner portion (116ED2) where the second plate (116P2) and the fifth plate (116P5) are connected, and a third corner portion (116ED3) where the third plate (116P3) and the fourth plate (116P4) are connected.

[0085] Each of the first corner section (116ED1), the second corner section (116ED2), and the third corner section (116ED3) may include a dust discharge hole. Each of the dust discharge holes of the first corner section (116ED1), the second corner section (116ED2), and the third corner section (116ED3) can prevent combustion byproducts, such as dust contained in the gas passing through the internal channels (116CH1, 116CH2, 116CH3), from accumulating in the first corner section (116ED1), the second corner section (116ED2), and the third corner section (116ED3). As a result, blockage caused by the accumulation of combustion byproducts inside the protector (116) can be prevented. Each of the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5) may include the first to fifth holes described above in the first or second embodiment.

[0086]

[0087] (Fourth Example)

[0088] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a protector (116''') according to exemplary embodiments.

[0089] In FIG. 8, the components having the same drawing numbers as FIG. 1 to FIG. 5 may be described as described above in the first embodiment, and such descriptions will be omitted. Hereinafter, the components of the fourth embodiment, which differ from the first embodiment, will be described in detail.

[0090]

[0091] Referring to FIG. 8, the protector (116''') may include a first corner portion (116ED1') where the first plate (116P1) and the fourth plate (116P4) are connected, a second corner portion (116ED2') where the second plate (116P2) and the fifth plate (116P5) are connected, and a third corner portion (116ED3') where the third plate (116P3) and the fourth plate (116P4) are connected.

[0092] Each of the first corner (116ED1'), the second corner (116ED2'), and the third corner (116ED3') may have a rounded shape. Each of the rounded shapes of the first corner (116ED1), the second corner (116ED2), and the third corner (116ED3) can prevent combustion byproducts, such as dust contained in the gas passing through the internal channels (116CH1, 116CH2, 116CH3), from accumulating in the first corner (116ED1'), the second corner (116ED2'), and the third corner (116ED3'). As a result, blockage caused by the accumulation of combustion byproducts inside the protector (116) can be prevented. Each of the first to fifth plates (116P1, 116P2, 116P3, 116P4, 116P5) may include the first to fifth holes described above in the first or second embodiment.

[0093]

[0094] (5th Example)

[0095] FIG. 9 is a top view showing a battery pack (200). FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack (200). FIG. 10 shows a cross-section along B-B' of FIG. 9.

[0096] In FIGS. 9 and 10, for components having the same reference numerals as FIGS. 1 to 5, the description above in the first embodiment may be applied, and the same description will be omitted. Hereinafter, the description will focus on the components of the fifth embodiment that differ from the first embodiment.

[0097]

[0098] The battery pack (200) may include a battery pack housing (100) and a plurality of battery cell assemblies (210) mounted on the battery pack housing (100).

[0099] Each of the battery cell assemblies (210) may include battery cells (201), separators (202) interposed between the battery cells, and a module frame (203) accommodating the battery cells (201) and the separators (202). The battery cell assemblies (210) may be separated from each other in the Y direction by a center beam (112). The battery cell assemblies (210) may be separated from each other in the X direction by cross beams (113).

[0100] In this example, the battery cell assemblies (210) are arranged in 4 rows and 2 columns. Accordingly, the battery cell assemblies (210) can be said to be arranged in a 4 * 2 configuration. A person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at a battery pack comprising battery cell assemblies (210) arranged in an M * N configuration based on what is described herein. Here, M and N are each any integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0101] Battery cells (201) can be accommodated in the internal space of the battery pack housing (100). Battery cells (201) can be stacked in the X direction. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of battery cells (201) may be bidirectional cells. That is, the positive terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells (201) may be placed at each end, and the negative terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells (201) may be placed at each other end. A person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at an embodiment in which each of the plurality of battery cells (201) is a unidirectional cell based on what is described herein.

[0102] Each of the plurality of battery cells (201) includes an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a case covering them. The case may be a pouch case or a rectangular case. The pouch case may include an aluminum laminate sheet. The rectangular case may include a metallic material such as aluminum. The rectangular case may have a rectangular prism shape.

[0103] An electrode assembly embedded in a case may include an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed between the anode and the cathode. Depending on the assembly form, the electrode assembly may be either a jelly roll type or a stack type. A jelly roll type electrode assembly may include a wound structure of an anode, a cathode, and a separator interposed between them. A stack type electrode assembly may include a plurality of sequentially stacked anodes, a plurality of cathodes, and a plurality of separators interposed between them.

[0104] Separators (202) can separate battery cells (201). Separators (202) may be interposed between battery cells (201) or positioned to contact the outermost battery cell in the X direction among the battery cells (201). Each of the separators (202) may contact adjacent battery cells (201) on one side or both sides. Multiple battery cells (201) and multiple separators (202) may form a cell stack.

[0105] A plurality of separators (202) may include a compressible material. A plurality of separators (202) may absorb swelling of a plurality of battery cells (201). A plurality of separators (202) may be a thermal barrier. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of separators (202) may have a high melting temperature and a low thermal conductivity. According to exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of separators (202) may include a flame-retardant material, such as ceramic and coated glass material. According to exemplary embodiments, the plurality of separators (202) may be configured to release a fire retarding material and a fire extinguishing agent in the event of a thermal runaway event.

[0106] The sensor (204) may be located within the battery pack housing (100). The sensor (204) may be configured to detect the internal environment of the battery pack housing (100). According to exemplary embodiments, the sensor (204) may be a temperature sensor. According to exemplary embodiments, the sensor (204) may be a pressure sensor. The sensor (204) may detect an ignition event inside the battery pack (200). For example, if an ignition event occurs in one of the battery cell assemblies (210) and the internal temperature of the battery pack (200) rises above a reference temperature, the sensor (204) may detect this. The battery pack (200) may include one sensor or two or more sensors.

[0107] A Battery Management System (BMS, 250) can monitor battery cell assemblies (210). The BMS (250) can be configured to monitor data collected from a sensor (204). The BMS (250) can be configured to control a venting device (115) based on data collected from the sensor (204).

[0108] According to exemplary embodiments, when an ignition event is detected inside the battery pack (200), the BMS (250) may be configured to generate an opening signal for the venting device (115) to open the venting hole (114H). According to exemplary embodiments, the BMS (250) may detect an ignition event when the temperature inside the battery pack (200) is above a reference temperature. According to exemplary embodiments, the BMS (250) may detect an ignition event when the pressure inside the battery pack (200) is above a reference pressure.

[0109] Heat and high-temperature gases inside the battery pack (200) can flow along the internal channels of the protector (116) and be discharged through the venting holes (114H). By securing an extended flow path inside the protector (116), flames, sparks, etc., can collide with the plates of the protector and naturally extinguish. This suppresses the exposure of flames to the outside of the battery pack (200) and delays the ignition speed inside the pack.

[0110]

[0111] The present invention has been described in more detail above through drawings and embodiments. However, the configurations described in the drawings or embodiments described in this specification are merely one embodiment of the present invention and do not represent all technical concepts of the present invention; therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

Claims

1. Base plate; A side wall perpendicular to the base plate above; A venting device installed in the venting hole of the above-mentioned side wall; and A protector installed on the inner surface of the side wall and overlapping with the venting device in a first direction; comprising, The protector includes first to third plates extending in a second direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the base plate, and The first plate includes a plurality of first holes, each having a first diameter, and The second plate includes a plurality of second holes, each having a second diameter, and A battery pack housing characterized in that the above-mentioned third plate includes a plurality of third holes, each having a third diameter.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above protector is, A first vertical channel between the first plate and the second plate; A second vertical channel between the second plate and the third plate; and A battery pack housing characterized by further including a third vertical channel between the third plate and the side wall.

3. In Paragraph 2, The second plate includes a first connecting hole connecting the first and second vertical channels, and The third plate includes a second connecting hole connecting the second and third vertical channels, and A battery pack housing characterized in that the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole are spaced apart in the second direction.

4. In Paragraph 1, A battery pack housing characterized in that the first diameter, the second diameter, and the third diameter are identical to each other.

5. In Paragraph 4, The central axis of each of the first holes is spaced apart from the central axis of each of the second holes in the second direction, and A battery pack housing characterized in that the center axis of each of the second holes is spaced apart from the center axis of each of the third holes in the second direction.

6. In Paragraph 1, The first diameter is larger than the second diameter, and A battery pack housing characterized in that the second diameter is larger than the third diameter.

7. In Paragraph 6, A battery pack housing characterized in that each of the plurality of first holes overlaps in the first direction with a corresponding one of the plurality of second holes and a corresponding one of the plurality of third holes.

8. In Paragraph 1, A battery pack housing characterized in that each of the first diameter, the second diameter, and the third diameter has a size of 0.5 times or more and 0.7 times or less the length of the venting hole of the side wall in the second direction.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above protector is, A fourth plate connecting the first plate and the third plate and extending in the first direction to the inner surface of the side wall; and It includes a fifth plate extending in the first direction from the second plate to the inner surface of the side wall, and The above-mentioned fourth plate and the above-mentioned fifth plate are spaced apart in the above-mentioned second direction, and The above-mentioned fourth plate includes a plurality of fourth holes, and A battery pack housing characterized in that the above-mentioned fifth plate includes a plurality of fifth holes.

10. In Paragraph 9, The diameter of each of the plurality of fourth holes of the fourth plate becomes smaller as it approaches the venting device in the first direction, and A battery pack housing characterized in that the diameter of each of the plurality of fifth holes of the fifth plate becomes smaller as it approaches the venting device in the first direction.

11. In Paragraph 9, The above protector is, A first corner portion where the first plate and the fourth plate meet; A second corner portion where the second plate and the fifth plate meet; and It further includes a third corner portion where the third plate and the fourth plate meet, and A battery pack housing characterized in that each of the first corner portion, the second corner portion, and the third corner portion has a rounded shape.

12. In Paragraph 9, The above protector is, A first corner portion where the first plate and the fourth plate meet; A second corner portion where the second plate and the fifth plate meet; and It further includes a third corner portion where the third plate and the fourth plate meet, and A battery pack housing characterized in that each of the first corner portion, the second corner portion, and the third corner portion includes a dust discharge hole.

13. In Paragraph 9, A first fixing part that is perpendicular to the fourth plate and connected to the fourth plate; and A second fixing part that is perpendicular to the fifth plate and connected to the fifth plate; and A battery pack housing characterized in that each of the first fixing part and the second fixing part is fixed on the inner surface of the side wall.

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