Battery pack

Abstract

According to exemplary embodiments, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack comprises: a lower frame including a base including a first plate and a second plate; and a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction parallel to the first plate and on the second plate, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells includes a cell case including an outlet facing the second plate, a discharge film on a lower surface of the cell case, and an electrode assembly in the cell case, the second plate includes a plurality of venting holes spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and each of the plurality of venting holes overlaps the outlet of a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells.

Description

battery pack

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack. The present application claims the benefit of Korean application No. 10-2024-0151927, filed on October 31, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] 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.

[0003] The trend in the technological development of rechargeable batteries for mobility is the improvement of energy density and safety. The safety of rechargeable batteries is critical as it is directly linked to the lives of passengers. The safety of rechargeable batteries can be achieved through mechanical robustness, the reliability of electrical insulation, and the delay of heat transfer in the event of a thermal runaway.

[0004] The problem that the technical concept of the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack having enhanced safety.

[0005] According to exemplary embodiments for solving the technical problem described above, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack comprises a lower frame including a base including a first plate and a second plate; and a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction parallel to the first plate and on the second plate, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells includes a cell case having an outlet facing the second plate, an outlet film on the lower surface of the cell case, and an electrode assembly within the cell case, and the second plate includes a plurality of venting holes spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and each of the plurality of venting holes overlaps with the outlet of a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells.

[0006] The base includes a plurality of partitions spaced apart in the first direction and located between the first and second plates.

[0007] The first plate, the second plate, and the plurality of partitions define a plurality of venting channels extending in a second direction parallel to the first plate and perpendicular to the first direction, and each of the plurality of venting channels is connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of venting holes.

[0008] The width of each of the plurality of venting holes in the first direction is greater than or equal to the width of the electrode assembly of each of the plurality of battery cells in the first direction.

[0009] The length of each of the plurality of venting holes in the second direction is greater than or equal to the length of the electrode assembly in the second direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0010] The width of each of the plurality of venting channels in the first direction is greater than or equal to the width of the electrode assembly of each of the plurality of battery cells in the first direction.

[0011] The length of the second direction of each of the plurality of venting channels is greater than or equal to the length of the second direction of each of the electrode assembly of the plurality of battery cells.

[0012] The width of the outlet in the first direction of the cell case of each of the plurality of battery cells is greater than or equal to the width in the first direction of the electrode assembly of each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0013] The length of the second direction of the outlet of the cell case of each of the plurality of battery cells is greater than or equal to the length of the second direction of the electrode assembly of each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0014] The height of each of the plurality of venting channels in the third direction perpendicular to the first plate is at least 30% of the height of the electrode assembly in the third direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0015] The height of each of the plurality of venting channels in the third direction perpendicular to the first plate is greater than the height of each of the electrode assemblies of the plurality of battery cells in the third direction.

[0016] The height of each of the plurality of venting channels in the third direction perpendicular to the first plate is at least 30% of the height of the cell case in the third direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

[0017] The height of each of the plurality of venting channels in the third direction perpendicular to the first plate is greater than the height of the cell case of each of the plurality of battery cells in the third direction.

[0018] The lower frame further includes a venting film covering the plurality of venting holes.

[0019] According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, each of the battery cells of a battery device includes a bottom film. Accordingly, if a thermal runaway event occurs in some of the battery cells, the bottom film of the battery cell can melt, and the electrode assembly of the battery cell can be discharged outside the cell case. Accordingly, the propagation of a thermal runaway event due to heat conduction between adjacent battery cells can be prevented, and the safety of the battery pack can be enhanced.

[0020] 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.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a battery cell according to exemplary embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 3 is a bottom view showing a battery cell according to exemplary embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the effect of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029]

[0030] (1st and 2nd embodiments)

[0031] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery pack (100) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a battery cell (120) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a bottom view showing a battery cell (120) according to exemplary embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the effect of a battery pack according to exemplary embodiments.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the battery pack (100) may include a lower frame (110), a plurality of battery cells (120), a plurality of cooling plates (130), an adhesive (140), a lead (150), and reinforcing plates (161, 163).

[0036] The lower frame (110) may include a base (111), side walls (112, 113), and a venting film (115). The lower frame (110) may provide a space for mounting a plurality of battery cells (120).

[0037] The lower frame (110) may include a first plate (111P1), a second plate (111P2), and a plurality of partitions (111S). The first plate (111P1) may be substantially parallel to the second plate (111P2).

[0038] Two directions substantially parallel to the first plate (111P1) are defined as the X direction and the Y direction, and a direction substantially perpendicular to the first plate (111P1) is defined as the Z direction. The X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction may be substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0039] The first plate (111P1) and the second plate (111P2) may be spaced apart from each other. The first plate (111P1) and the second plate (111P2) may be spaced apart in the Z direction. A plurality of partitions (111S) may be interposed between the first plate (111P1) and the second plate (111P2). The plurality of partitions (111S) may be connected to each of the first plate (111P1) and the second plate (111P2). The plurality of partitions (111S) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. Each of the plurality of partitions (111S) may be substantially perpendicular to the X direction. The plurality of partitions (111S) may extend in the Y direction.

[0040] The first plate (111P1), the second plate (111P2), and the plurality of partitions (111S1) can define a plurality of venting channels (111VH). The plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. Each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0041] The second plate (111P2) may include a plurality of venting holes (111PH). Each of the plurality of venting holes (111PH) may extend in the Y direction. Each of the plurality of venting holes (111PH) may extend in the Y direction. The plurality of venting holes (111PH) may be arranged in the X direction. The plurality of venting holes (111PH) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. Each of the plurality of venting holes (111PH) may be connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of venting channels (111VH).

[0042] The side walls (112, 113) may be substantially perpendicular to the first plate (111P1). The side walls (112, 113) may be connected to the edge portions of the first plate (111P1). The side walls (112, 113) may horizontally surround a plurality of battery cells (120).

[0043] A venting film (115) may be on a second plate (111P2). A venting film (115) may be attached to the second plate (111P2). A venting film (115) may overlap with each of the plurality of venting holes (111PH) in the Z direction. A venting film (115) may overlap with each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) in the Z direction. A venting film (115) may block the plurality of venting holes (111PH), and accordingly, when the battery pack (100) is operating normally, the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be isolated from the plurality of battery cells (120). A venting film (115) may include a non-heat-resistant material. A venting film may include a material that melts at high temperatures.

[0044] Here, thermal runway is an uncontrollable positive feedback condition in which the temperature change of multiple battery cells (120) further accelerates the temperature change. Multiple battery cells (120) in a thermal runway state exhibit a rapid temperature rise and emit large amounts of high-pressure gas and combustion residue.

[0045] Each of the plurality of battery cells (120) may be on the lower frame (110). Each of the plurality of battery cells (120) may be on the second plate (111P2). Each of the plurality of battery cells (120) may face the second plate (111P2). Each of the plurality of battery cells (120) may be spaced apart from the first plate (111P1) with the second plate (111P2) in between.

[0046] Each of the plurality of battery cells (120) may include a cell case (121), an exhaust film (122), an electrode assembly (123), a positive terminal (124), and a negative terminal (125). According to exemplary embodiments, the cell case (121) may include a metal can. Hereinafter, the technical concept of the present invention will be explained with reference to an example in which the cell case (121) includes a rectangular metal can. A person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at an example in which the cell case includes a cylindrical metal can based on what is described herein.

[0047] The electrode assembly (123) may be of the jelly roll type. The electrode assembly (123) may include a wound structure of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. The positive electrode may include a positive current collector and a positive active material. The negative electrode may include a negative current collector and a negative active material. The positive electrode may include a positive tab connected to a positive terminal (124). The negative electrode may include a negative tab connected to a negative terminal (125).

[0048] A person skilled in the art will be able to easily arrive at an embodiment in which each of the plurality of battery cells comprises a stacked electrode assembly including a plurality of positive electrodes, a plurality of negative electrodes, and a plurality of separators between them, based on what is described herein.

[0049] The positive terminal (124) and the negative terminal (125) may be on the upper surface (121T) of the cell case (121). The upper surface (121T) may face the lead (150). The upper surface (121T) may be opposite to the bottom surface (121B) of the cell case (121). The bottom surface (121B) of the cell case (121) may face the second plate (121P2). The bottom surface (121B) and the upper surface (121T) may each be substantially perpendicular to the Z direction.

[0050] The bottom surface (121B) may include a plurality of outlets (121H). According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the width in the X direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the width in the X direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 75% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the width in the X direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the width in the X direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 80% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the width in the X direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the width in the X direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 85% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the width in the X direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the width in the X direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 90% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the width in the X direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the width in the X direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 95% or more.

[0051] According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the length in the Y direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the length in the Y direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 75% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the length in the Y direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the length in the Y direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 80% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the length in the Y direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the length in the Y direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 85% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the length in the Y direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the length in the Y direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 90% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the length in the Y direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the length in the Y direction of the bottom surface (121B) may be about 95% or more.

[0052] According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the area of ​​each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the area of ​​the bottom surface (121B) may be about 75% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the area of ​​each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the area of ​​the bottom surface (121B) may be about 80% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the area of ​​each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the area of ​​the bottom surface (121B) may be about 85% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the area of ​​each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the area of ​​the bottom surface (121B) may be about 90% or more. According to exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the area of ​​each of the plurality of outlets (121H) to the area of ​​the bottom surface (121B) may be about 95% or more.

[0053] According to exemplary embodiments, the width in the X direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) may be greater than the width in the X direction of the electrode assembly (123). According to exemplary embodiments, the length in the Y direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) may be greater than the length in the Y direction of the electrode assembly (123). According to exemplary embodiments, the area of ​​each of the plurality of outlets (121H) may be greater than the area of ​​the electrode assembly (123).

[0054] Each of the plurality of outlets (121H) may overlap in the Z direction with a corresponding one of the plurality of venting holes (111PH). Each of the plurality of outlets (121H) may overlap in the Z direction with a corresponding one of the plurality of venting channels (111VH).

[0055] The discharge film (122) may be on the lower surface (121B) of the cell case (121). The discharge film (122) may be attached to the lower surface (121B) of the cell case (121). The discharge film (122) may include a non-refractory material. The discharge film (122) may melt at a high temperature.

[0056] The discharge film (122) can block the discharge port (121H) of the cell case (121). Accordingly, the electrode assembly (123) may be in the internal space defined by the cell case (121) and the discharge film (122). Electrolyte may be further injected into the internal space.

[0057] The cell case (121) may further include first sides (121S1) and second sides (121S2). The first sides (121S1) and second sides (121S2) may be connected to the top surface (121T) and the bottom surface (121B). The first sides (121S1) and second sides (121S2) may be located between the top surface (121T) and the bottom surface (121B).

[0058] Each of the first sides (121S1) may be substantially perpendicular to the X direction. The first sides (121S1) may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. Each of the second sides (121S2) may be substantially perpendicular to the Y direction. The second sides (121S2) may be spaced apart from each other in the Y direction.

[0059] There may be multiple cooling plates (130) between multiple battery cells (120). The multiple battery cells (120) may alternate with the multiple cooling plates (130). There may be a corresponding one among the multiple cooling plates (130) between two adjacent batteries among the multiple battery cells (120). There may be a corresponding one among the multiple battery cells (120) between two adjacent cooling plates (130).

[0060] Each of the plurality of cooling plates (130) may include a cooling channel. Each of the plurality of cooling plates (130) may be connected to an inlet port and an outlet port. Coolant introduced through the inlet port may flow along the plurality of cooling plates (130) and may be discharged through the outlet port. Each of the plurality of battery cells (120) may come into contact with a corresponding one of the plurality of cooling plates (130), and accordingly, the plurality of battery cells (120) may be cooled by the plurality of cooling plates (130).

[0061] An adhesive (140) may be present between the plurality of battery cells (120) and the venting film (115). The plurality of battery cells (120) may be fixed to the lower frame (110) by the adhesive (140). The adhesive (140) may include a curable material, such as resin, but is not limited thereto.

[0062] According to exemplary embodiments, the width in the X direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) may be greater than the width in the X direction of the electrode assembly (123). According to exemplary embodiments, the length in the Y direction of each of the plurality of outlets (121H) may be greater than the length in the Y direction of the electrode assembly (123). According to exemplary embodiments, the area of ​​each of the plurality of outlets (121H) may be greater than the area of ​​the electrode assembly (123).

[0063] According to exemplary embodiments, the width in the X direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be greater than the width in the X direction of the electrode assembly (123). According to exemplary embodiments, the length in the Y direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be greater than the length in the Y direction of the electrode assembly (123). According to exemplary embodiments, the area of ​​each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be greater than the area of ​​the electrode assembly (123).

[0064] According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 10% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 15% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 20% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 25% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 30% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 35% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 40% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 45% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 50% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of the plurality of battery cells (120).According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 55% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 60% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 65% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 70% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 75% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 80% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 85% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 90% of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be about 95% or more of the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of the plurality of battery cells (120).According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be greater than the height in the Z direction of each electrode assembly (123) of each of the plurality of battery cells (120).

[0065] According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 10% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 15% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 20% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 25% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 30% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 35% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 40% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 45% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be about 50% or more of the height in the Z direction of each of the cell cases (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120).According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 55% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 60% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 65% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 70% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 75% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 80% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 85% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be at least about 90% of the height in the Z direction of each cell case (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120). According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be about 95% or more of the height in the Z direction of each of the cell cases (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120).According to exemplary embodiments, the height in the Z direction of each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) may be greater than the height in the Z direction of each of the cell cases (121) of the plurality of battery cells (120).

[0066] The lead (150) can be attached to the side walls (112, 113, 114, 115). The lead plate can cover elements mounted inside the battery pack (100), such as a plurality of battery cells (120) and electrical components. The lead (150) can be fixed to the lower frame (110) by mechanical fastening means, such as bolts.

[0067] The battery pack (100) may include a Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS (180) may be configured to perform monitoring, balancing, and control of the battery pack. Monitoring of the battery pack (100) may include measuring the voltage and current of specific nodes within a plurality of battery cells (120) and measuring the temperature of set locations within the battery pack (100). The battery pack (100) may include measuring instruments for measuring the voltage, current, and temperature described above.

[0068] Balancing of the battery pack (100) is an operation that reduces deviations between multiple battery cells (120). Control of the battery pack (100) includes preventing overcharging, over-discharging, and overcurrent. Through monitoring, balancing, and control, the battery pack (100) can operate under optimal conditions, and accordingly, the shortening of the lifespan of each of the multiple battery cells (120) can be prevented.

[0069] The battery pack (100) may further include an exhaust device. The exhaust device may be configured to delay thermal propagation by releasing high-temperature gas inside the battery pack (100) to the outside when at least one of the plurality of battery cells (120) is in a thermal runaway state.

[0070] The battery pack (100) may include additional electrical components. The electrical components may be mounted on the lower frame (110). The electrical components may include any electronic components necessary to drive the battery pack. Additional electrical components may include a cooling device, a Power Relay Assembly (PRA), a safety plug, etc. The cooling device may include a cooling fan. The cooling fan can prevent overheating of each of the multiple battery cells (120) by circulating air inside the battery pack (100). The PRA may be configured to supply or cut off power from the high-voltage battery to an external load (e.g., a vehicle motor). The PRA can protect the multiple battery cells (120) and the external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) by cutting off power supply to the external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) in situations where abnormal voltage occurs, such as a voltage surge.

[0071] The battery pack (100) may further include a plurality of busbars configured to electrically connect a plurality of battery cells (120). The plurality of battery cells (120) may be connected in series by the plurality of busbars. Accordingly, the battery pack (100) may be configured to output a high voltage to an external load (e.g., a motor of a vehicle).

[0072] Reinforcement plates (161, 163) can be joined to the first plate (111P1). Reinforcement plates (161, 163) can be welded to the first plate (111P1). Reinforcement plates (161, 163) can also be joined to the first plate (111P1) by mechanical means such as bolting.

[0073] In this example, the lower frame (110) includes a plurality of venting channels (111VH) having a relatively large height, so it may have low rigidity, and reinforcing plates (161, 163) may supplement the rigidity of the lower frame (110).

[0074]

[0075] Referring to FIG. 4, when a thermal runaway event (TP) occurs in one of the battery cells (120), the corresponding portion of the venting film (115), the corresponding discharge film (122), and the corresponding portion of the adhesive (140) may be melted. Accordingly, the electrode assembly (EA) of the battery cell (120) in which the thermal runaway event occurred may be discharged from the cell case (121) to the outside through the discharge port (121H).

[0076] Accordingly, the electrode assembly (EA) discharged from the cell case (121) is discharged to the outside of the cell case (121) through a plurality of venting holes (111PH) corresponding to it and can be inserted into a corresponding of a plurality of venting channels (111VH). Accordingly, face-to-face heat transfer from the battery cell (120) where a thermal runaway event (TP) occurred to adjacent battery cells (120) can be prevented and the safety of the battery pack (100) can be enhanced.

[0077] According to exemplary embodiments, since each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) has a relatively high length in the Z direction, more than 10% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred can be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, since each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) has a relatively high length in the Z direction, more than 15% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred can be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, since each of the plurality of venting channels (111VH) has a relatively high length in the Z direction, more than 20% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred can be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, at least 25% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, at least 30% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, at least 35% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, at least 40% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, at least 45% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, more than 50% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred can be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH).According to exemplary embodiments, more than 55% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, more than 60% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, more than 65% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, more than 70% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, more than 75% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, more than 80% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, more than 85% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, more than 90% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, more than 95% of the volume of the electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH). According to exemplary embodiments, the entire electrode assembly (EA) where the thermal runaway event (TP) occurred may be inserted into the corresponding venting channel (111VH).

[0078]

[0079] 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. A lower frame comprising a base including a first plate and a second plate; and A plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction parallel to the first plate and on the second plate, wherein Each of the plurality of battery cells comprises a cell case having an outlet facing the second plate, an outlet film on the lower surface of the cell case, and an electrode assembly within the cell case, and The second plate includes a plurality of venting holes spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and A battery pack characterized in that each of the plurality of venting holes overlaps with the outlet of a corresponding one of the plurality of battery cells.

2. In Paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that the base comprises a plurality of partitions spaced apart in the first direction and located between the first and second plates.

3. In Paragraph 2, The first plate, the second plate, and the plurality of partitions define a plurality of venting channels extending in a second direction parallel to the first plate and perpendicular to the first direction, and A battery pack characterized in that each of the plurality of venting channels is connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of venting holes.

4. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the width of each of the plurality of venting holes in the first direction is greater than or equal to the width of each of the electrode assemblies in the first direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

5. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the length of each of the plurality of venting holes in the second direction is greater than or equal to the length of each of the electrode assemblies in the second direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

6. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the width of each of the plurality of venting channels in the first direction is greater than or equal to the width of each of the electrode assemblies in the first direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

7. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the length of each of the plurality of venting channels in the second direction is greater than or equal to the length of each of the electrode assemblies in the second direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

8. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the width of the discharge port in the first direction of the cell case of each of the plurality of battery cells is greater than or equal to the width of the electrode assembly in the first direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

9. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the length of the second direction of the discharge port of the cell case of each of the plurality of battery cells is greater than or equal to the length of the second direction of the electrode assembly of each of the plurality of battery cells.

10. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the height of each of the plurality of venting channels in a third direction perpendicular to the first plate is at least 30% of the height of the electrode assembly in the third direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

11. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the height of each of the plurality of venting channels in a third direction perpendicular to the first plate is greater than the height of each of the electrode assemblies in the third direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

12. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the height of each of the plurality of venting channels in a third direction perpendicular to the first plate is at least 30% of the height of the cell case in the third direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

13. In Paragraph 3, A battery pack characterized in that the height of each of the plurality of venting channels in a third direction perpendicular to the first plate is greater than the height of each of the cell cases in the third direction of each of the plurality of battery cells.

14. In Paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that the lower frame further includes a venting film covering the plurality of venting holes.

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