Battery assembly

Abstract

A battery assembly is disclosed. A battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a case providing a space therein and including a top cover having a flow path; a plurality of battery cells accommodated inside the case and stacked along the left-right direction; a barrier positioned between the plurality of battery cells and including a first material; and a second material accommodated in the flow path and configured to expand upon reaction with the first material.

Description

Battery assembly

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

[0002] This application is a priority application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0155432 filed on November 5, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said application are incorporated into this application by reference.

[0003] As the demand for portable electronic products such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and smartwatches increases significantly and electric vehicles become increasingly widespread, research on batteries installed in them, particularly secondary batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging, is actively underway.

[0004] Currently commercialized rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium, nickel-hydrogen, nickel-zinc, and lithium-ion batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are gaining attention for their advantages, such as the ability to charge and discharge freely with almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0005] These lithium secondary batteries primarily use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative active materials, respectively. The lithium secondary battery comprises an electrode assembly in which a positive plate and a negative plate, each coated with the positive and negative active materials, are arranged with a separator in between, and an outer casing, namely a battery case, that seals and houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

[0006] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified according to the shape of the casing into can-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a metal can, and pouch-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a pouch of aluminum laminate sheet.

[0007] Recently, secondary batteries are widely used for driving or energy storage not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium-to-large devices such as electric vehicles and Energy Storage Systems (ESS). A single battery module can be formed by housing multiple such secondary batteries together inside a module case while electrically connected. In this case, each secondary battery included in a single battery module can be referred to as a battery cell. Furthermore, multiple such battery modules can be connected to form a single battery pack.

[0008] However, when a battery pack contains multiple battery modules, and each module contains multiple battery cells, it may be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between modules or cells. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery module, it is necessary to suppress the propagation of this runaway to other battery modules or cells. If the propagation of thermal runaway between modules or cells is not properly suppressed, an event originating in a specific module or cell may trigger a chain reaction of thermal reactions in other modules or cells, potentially causing explosions or fires, or significantly amplifying their scale.

[0009] In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery module, gases or flames may be randomly released to the outside. If the release of such gases or flames is not properly controlled, they may be released toward other battery modules, potentially causing a thermal chain reaction in those modules. Specifically, module terminals may be located on the front side of a battery module to provide electrical connections to other battery modules or battery packs, such as module busbars. Therefore, if flames are released toward the front of such a battery module, they can damage the module terminals within the battery pack and cause an electrical short circuit. Furthermore, since other battery modules may be located in front of a specific battery module, if flames are released toward the front of that module, the emitted flames may spread toward other modules, making it easy for fire to spread between battery modules.

[0010] If thermal propagation between battery modules or between battery cells is not properly controlled, a rapid voltage drop in the battery module or battery pack may occur. This can lead to a sudden shutdown of the device equipped with the battery module or battery pack, causing unexpected damage. For example, if a sudden voltage drop in the battery pack occurs while an electric vehicle is in operation, there may not be enough time to move the electric vehicle to a safe location.

[0011] Furthermore, if thermal propagation between battery modules or battery cells is not properly controlled and a fire or explosion occurs suddenly, there is a high possibility of causing casualties to users. For example, if thermal runaway occurs in an electric vehicle and a certain amount of time is not secured before it progresses into a full-scale fire, the occupants may not be able to escape safely.

[0012] The present invention was devised to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a battery assembly with an improved structure capable of appropriately controlling the discharge of flames, etc. generated inside the battery assembly, and a vehicle including the same.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a battery assembly capable of discharging a very large volume of material into the interior of a case when a thermal event occurs.

[0014] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a battery assembly capable of blocking the propagation of a thermal event by filling the interior of the case with a foam material when a thermal event occurs.

[0015] A battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose may include: a case including a top cover having an internal space and a flow path; a plurality of battery cells accommodated inside the case and stacked along the left and right directions; a barrier located between the plurality of battery cells and comprising a first material; and a second material accommodated in the flow path and configured to expand by reacting with the first material.

[0016] In addition, the first material may be configured to be injected into the interior of the case when a thermal event occurs.

[0017] Additionally, each of the plurality of battery cells includes: a housing portion extending along the front-rear direction and having an electrode assembly; and an electrode lead protruding forward from the housing portion, and the barrier may include a first part located between the housing portions of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

[0018] Additionally, the barrier may further include a second part that extends along the front-rear direction from the first part and covers the front of the housing portion of the adjacent battery cell.

[0019] In addition, the width of the second part in the left-right direction may be configured to be larger than the width of the first part in the left-right direction.

[0020] Additionally, the battery assembly further includes a busbar frame assembly electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, and the busbar frame assembly has a slit through which the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells pass, and the barrier may further include a third part extending from the second part and inserted into the slit.

[0021] In addition, the battery assembly may further include a heat transfer member disposed between the top cover and the plurality of battery cells.

[0022] In addition, the top cover may include a rupture portion formed between the Euro and the barrier and configured to rupture upon the occurrence of a thermal event.

[0023] In addition, the thickness of the rupture portion may be configured to be thinner than the thickness of the portion adjacent to the rupture portion.

[0024] Additionally, the top cover may include: a spray hole formed between the Euro and the barrier; and a melting member covering the spray hole.

[0025] In addition, the barrier may be extended along the length direction of the Euro.

[0026] In addition, the barrier may include a fiber material.

[0027] Additionally, the barrier includes a shell that provides a space inside, and the first material may be disposed inside the shell.

[0028] An automobile according to one aspect of the present invention includes a battery assembly of the present invention.

[0029] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs, flames or particles can be blocked from being discharged to the outside of the case.

[0030] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs, the inside of the case is filled with a foam material so that the propagation of the thermal event can be blocked.

[0031] 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.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery assembly of Figure 1 separated.

[0034] Figure 3 is a drawing showing the battery unit of Figure 2.

[0035] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery unit of Figure 3 separated.

[0036] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of section C of Figure 4.

[0037] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the barrier of Figure 4.

[0038] Figure 7 is a drawing showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line D-D' of Figure 6.

[0039] Figure 8 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of Figure 7.

[0040] Figure 9 is a drawing showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line B-B' of Figure 3.

[0041] Figure 10 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of Figure 1.

[0042] Figure 11 is a diagram showing the change in Figure 10 when a thermal event occurs.

[0043] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 10.

[0044] Figure 13 is a diagram showing the change in Figure 12 when a thermal event occurs.

[0045] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 10.

[0046] Figure 15 is a diagram showing the change in Figure 14 when a thermal event occurs.

[0047] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 10.

[0048] Figure 17 is a diagram showing the change in Figure 16 when a thermal event occurs.

[0049] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Hereinafter, 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, and 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.

[0051] Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely examples of the present invention and do not represent all aspects of the technical concept of the present invention, and that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0052] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery assembly (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery assembly (1000) of FIG. 1 separated.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery assembly (1000) may include a case (100). The case (100) may include a base plate (110). The base plate (110) may have a rectangular shape. The base plate (110) may have a flat shape. The base plate (110) may form the exterior of the battery assembly (1000). The base plate (110) may provide an internal space for the battery assembly (1000).

[0054] The case (100) may include side walls (120). The side walls (120) may be installed, fastened, joined, fixed, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate (110). The side walls (120) may consist of four. The side walls (120) may be arranged along the perimeter of the base plate (110). The side walls (120) may form the exterior of the battery assembly (1000). The side walls (120) may provide an internal space.

[0055] The battery assembly (1000) may include a battery unit (200). The battery unit (200) may have a rectangular shape. The battery unit (200) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple battery units (200) may be located inside the case (100). The multiple battery units (200) may be installed, coupled, fastened, fixed, or attached to the base plate (110).

[0056] The case (100) may include a top cover (150). The top cover (150) may have a square plate shape. The top cover (150) may have a flat plate shape. The top cover (150) may form the exterior of the battery assembly (1000). The top cover (150) may cover the internal space of the battery assembly (1000). The top cover (150) may be positioned on top of the battery unit (200). The top cover (150) may have a flow path (151, see FIG. 10) inside. The top cover (150) may function as a heat sink. A second material (420, see FIG. 10) may be received in the flow path (151) of the top cover (150). The second material (420) may flow through the flow path (151) as a cooling liquid.

[0057] The battery assembly (1000) may include a venting device (500). The venting device (500) may be installed on the side wall (120). For example, the venting device (500) may be a gas valve. The venting device (500) may open to discharge gas when the pressure inside the case (100) increases. Additionally, the venting device (500) may block external air from entering the case (100). Multiple venting devices (500) may be provided.

[0058] The battery assembly (1000) may include a partition wall (300). The partition wall (300) may include a first partition wall (310). The first partition wall (310) may be provided in multiple numbers. The first partition wall (310) may be installed, fastened, fixed, coupled, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate (110). The first partition wall (310) may partition the internal space of the battery assembly (1000). The first partition wall (310) may be provided on each side of the battery unit (200).

[0059] The partition wall (300) may include a second partition wall (320). The second partition wall (320) may be installed, fastened, fixed, joined, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate (110). The second partition wall (320) may partition the internal space of the battery assembly (1000). The second partition wall (320) may extend along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The first partition wall (310) may be positioned on both sides centered on the second partition wall (320).

[0060] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the battery unit (200) of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery unit (200) of FIG. 3 separated. FIG. 5 is an enlarged drawing of section C of FIG. 4.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 2 through 5, the battery unit (200) may include a plurality of battery cells (220). The plurality of battery cells (220) may form a battery stack. In this case, the battery cell (220) may refer to a secondary battery. In particular, the battery cell (220) may be a secondary battery having a pouch shape. However, the shape of the battery cell (220) is not limited to a pouch shape and may have various shapes such as a cylindrical shape or a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The battery stack may be installed, coupled, fastened, fixed, or attached to a base plate (110).

[0062] Each battery cell (220) may be extended along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple battery cells (220) may be stacked along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. Multiple battery cells (220) may be stacked to form a battery stack.

[0063] A battery cell (220) may include a storage portion (221) having an electrode assembly, a first sealing portion (222) protruding forward and backward from the storage portion (221), and a second sealing portion (223) protruding upward from the storage portion (221). Additionally, the battery cell (220) may include electrode leads (224) protruding forward and backward from the first sealing portion (222), respectively. Each battery cell (220) may be extended along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The electrode leads (224) may protrude forward and backward from each battery cell (220).

[0064] The front busbar frame assembly (231) may be electrically connected to the front side electrode lead (224) of the battery stack. The front busbar frame assembly (231) may cover the front side of the storage unit (221). The front busbar frame assembly (231) may include a power terminal (231a). The power terminal (231a) may be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells (220). The power terminal (231a) may be provided as a pair. The power terminal (231a) may be exposed to the outside of the battery unit (200). The power terminal (231a) may be electrically connected to another battery unit (200) or a Battery Management System (BMS).

[0065] The rear busbar frame assembly (232) can be electrically connected to the rear side electrode lead (224) of the battery stack. The rear busbar frame assembly (232) can cover the rear side of the storage unit (221).

[0066] The front busbar frame assembly (231) may include a frame (231b). The frame (231b) may form the exterior of the front busbar frame assembly (231). A busbar (231d) may be provided on the front of the frame (231b). The busbar (231d) may be electrically connected to an electrode lead (224). A plurality of busbars (231d) may be provided. A plurality of busbars (231d) may be arranged along the stacking direction or the Y-axis direction of a plurality of battery cells (220). The frame (231b) may have a slit (231c). A plurality of slits (231c) may be provided. An electrode lead (224) may pass through the slit (231c). An electrode lead (224) may pass through the slit (231c) and be electrically connected to the busbar (231d).

[0067] The battery unit (200) may include an insulating sheet (290). The insulating sheet (290) may be placed on the outermost edge of the battery stack. The insulating sheet (290) may include a material having electrical insulating properties. The insulating sheet (290) may be provided on both sides of the battery stack.

[0068] The front insulation cover (241) can cover the front busbar frame assembly (231). The front insulation cover (241) can be coupled, fastened, fixed, installed, or attached to the front busbar frame assembly (231). The front insulation cover (241) may include a material having electrical insulation properties. The front insulation cover (241) may expose the power terminal (231a).

[0069] The rear insulation cover (242) can cover the rear busbar frame assembly (232). The rear insulation cover (242) can be coupled, fastened, fixed, installed, or attached to the rear busbar frame assembly (232). The rear insulation cover (242) may include a material having electrical insulation properties.

[0070] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the barrier (250) of FIG. 4. Referring to FIG. 3, FIG. 4 and FIG. 6, a battery stack may include a barrier (250). The barrier (250) may be placed between a plurality of battery cells (220). The barrier (250) may be placed between at least some of the battery cells (220) and / or on the outer edge of the stack. For example, the barrier (250) may be configured to be placed between every four battery cells (220) stacked in the left-right direction.

[0071] This barrier (250) may have elasticity to enable absorption of swelling of the battery cell (220). The barrier (250) may include a first material (410).

[0072] The barrier (250) may include a first part (251). The first part (251) may be located between the storage portions (221) of adjacent battery cells (220). The first part (251) may cover the storage portions (221) of the battery cells (220).

[0073] The barrier (250) may include a second part (252). The second part (252) may extend from the first part (251). The second part (252) may be provided on the front side and the rear side of the first part (251), respectively. The first part (251) and the second part (252) may be formed integrally. The second part (252) may cover the front side of the storage portion (221).

[0074] The barrier (250) may include a third part (253). The third part (253) may extend from the second part (252). The third part (253) may be provided on the front side of the second part (252). The third part (253) may be provided as a pair on the front side of the second part (252). The third part (253) may be provided on the rear side of the second part (252). The third part (253) may be provided as a pair on the rear side of the second part (252). The third part (253) may be formed integrally with the second part (252).

[0075] When a thermal event occurs, the top cover (150) may melt. When the top cover (150) melts, the second material (420, see FIG. 11) may leak out. When a thermal event occurs, the barrier (250) may melt. When the barrier (250) melts, the first material (410) may be exposed. When a thermal event occurs, the first material (410) and the second material (420) may mix. The first material (410) and the second material (420) may chemically react. The first material (410) and the second material (420) may react to produce a third material (430, see FIG. 11). The third material (430) may be a material with a very large volume. The third material (430) may be a foam material. The third material (430) may be a porous material. The third material (430) may include a material with low thermal conductivity. The third material (430) may include a material with high thermal insulation properties. For example, the third material (430) may include a polyurethane resin-based foam, an epoxy resin-based foam, a phenol resin-based foam, etc.

[0076] Depending on the type of such third material (430), the first material (410) and the second material (420) forming the corresponding third material (430) may be selected separately.

[0077] In the case where the third material (430) is a polyurethane resin-based foam, the first material (410) and the second material (420) may be a polyol compound and an isocyanate-based compound, respectively.

[0078] The above polyol compounds may include polytetramethylene glycol (PTMG), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyoxytrimethylene ether glycol (PO3G), or two or more of these, but are not limited thereto.

[0079] The above isocyanate compounds include toluene diisocyanate (TDI), naphthalene-1,5-diisocyanate, p-phenylene diisocyanate, tolidine diisocyanate, 4,4'-diphenyl methane diisocyanate, hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate, and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI). It may include 1-isocyanato-4-[(4-isocyanatohexyl)methyl]cyclohexane (1-isocyanato-4-[(4-isocyanatocyclohexyl)methyl]cyclohexane, H12MDI), isophorone diisocyanate, or two or more of these, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, if the third material (430) is a polyurethane resin-based foam, it may additionally include a blowing agent in addition to the first material (410) and the second material (420), and examples of the blowing agent may include water, hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), methylene chloride, n-butane, isobutane, n-pentane isopentane, dimethyl ether, acetone, carbon dioxide, or two or more of these, but is not limited thereto.

[0080] In the case where the third material (430) is an epoxy resin-based foam, the first material (410) and the second material (420) may be an epoxy resin and a curing agent, respectively.

[0081] The above epoxy resin may include, but is not limited to, an epoxy resin having a glycidylamino group derived from metaxylylenediamine, an epoxy resin having a glycidylamino group derived from paraxylylenediamine, an epoxy resin having a glycidylamino group derived from 1,3-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane, an epoxy resin having a glycidylamino group derived from 1,4-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane, an epoxy resin having a glycidylamino group derived from diaminodiphenylmethane, an epoxy resin having a glycidylamino group and / or a glycidyloxy group derived from para-aminophenol, an epoxy resin having a glycidyloxy group derived from bisphenol A, an epoxy resin having a glycidyloxy group derived from bisphenol F, an epoxy resin having a glycidyloxy group derived from phenolnovolac, an epoxy resin having a glycidyloxy group derived from resorcinol.

[0082] The above curing agent may include an amine-based curing agent, and 1,3-benzenedimethaneamine, ethylenediamine, 1,3-diaminopropane, 1,4-diaminopropane, hexamethylenediamine, 2,5-dimethylhexamethylenediamine, trimethylhexamethylenediamine, diethylenetriamine, iminobispropylamine, bis(hexamethylene)triamine, triethylenetetramine, tetraethylenepentamine, pentaethylenehexamine, N-hydroxyethylethylenediamine, tetra(hydroxyethyl)ethylenediamine, triethyleneglycoldiamine, tetraethyleneglycoldiamine, diethyleneglycolbis(propylamine), polyoxypropylenediamine, polyoxypropylendiamine, isophoronediamine, metacendiamine, N-aminoethylpiperazine, bis(4-amino-3-methyldicyclohexyl)methane, bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane, 3,9-Bis(3-aminopropyl)2,4,8,10-Tetraoxaspiro(5,5)undecane, norbornendiamine, tetrachloro-p-xylenediamine, m-xylenediamine, p-xylenediamine, m-phenylenediamine, o-phenylenediamine, p-phenylenediamine, 2,4-diaminoanisole, 2,4-toluenediamine, 2,4-diaminodiphenylmethane, 4,4'-diaminodiphenylmethane, 4,4'-diamino1,2-diphenylethane, 2,4-diaminodiphenylsulfone, m-aminophenol, m-aminobenzylamine, benzyldimethylamine, 2-dimethylaminomethyl)phenol, triethanolamine, methylbenzylamine, α-(m-aminophenyl)ethylamine, α-(p-aminophenyl)ethylamine, diaminodiethyldimethyldiphenylmethane, It may include α,α'-bis(4-aminophenyl)-p-diisopropylbenzene, or two or more of these, but is not limited thereto.

[0083] In the case where the third material (430) is a phenol resin-based foam, the first material (410) and the second material (420) may be a phenol compound and an aldehyde compound, respectively.

[0084] The above phenol compounds may include phenol, cresol, xylenol, paraalkylphenol, paraphenylphenol, resorcinol, or two or more of these, but are not limited thereto.

[0085] Examples of the above aldehyde compounds may include formaldehyde, formalin, paraformaldehyde, furfural, acetaldehyde, or two or more of these, but are not limited thereto.

[0086] When a thermal event occurs, the third material (430) can fill the interior of the case (100). The third material (430) can be expanded to surround the battery cell (220). The third material (430) can block the propagation of particles such as venting gas or flammable particles. The third material (430) can prevent the propagation of the thermal event.

[0087] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line D-D' of FIG. 6. Referring to FIG. 7, the barrier (250) may include a shell (250a). The shell (250a) may provide a space inside. The first material (410) may be contained inside the shell (250a). The shell (250a) may include a material with a low melting point. When a thermal event occurs, the shell (250a) melts, and the first material (410) may be discharged.

[0088] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a modified embodiment of FIG. 7. Referring to FIG. 8, the barrier (250) may include a fiber member (250b). For example, the barrier (250) may be a felt made of the fiber member (250b). The fiber member (250b) may include, retain, or contain a first material (410). The first material (410) may be absorbed into the fiber member (250b). The first material (410) may be exposed to the outside of the barrier (250).

[0089] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line B-B' of FIG. 3. Referring to FIG. 9, the first part (251) may be located between adjacent storage units (221). When a thermal event occurs, the first material (410) contained in the first part (251) may react with the second material (420) to produce a third material (430). The third material (430) can block the movement of particles, such as venting gas or flammable particles, by physically blocking the space between adjacent storage units (221).

[0090] The second part (252) may be located between adjacent first sealing parts (222). The second part (252) may cover the front of adjacent storage parts (221). When a thermal event occurs, the first material (410) contained in the second part (252) may react with the second material (420) to produce a third material (430). The third material (430) can block the movement of particles, such as venting gas or flammable particles, by physically blocking the space between adjacent first sealing parts (222).

[0091] The second part (252) may have a greater width than the first part (251). The width of the second part (252) in the left-right direction may be configured to be larger than the width of the first part (251) in the left-right direction. The width of the second part (252) in the Y-axis direction may be configured to be larger than the width of the first part (251) in the Y-axis direction.

[0092] A third part (253) can be inserted into the slit (231c). The third part (253) and the electrode lead (224) can be inserted into the slit (231c). When a thermal event occurs, the first material (410) contained in the third part (253) can react with the second material (420) to produce a third material (430). The third material (430) can seal the slit (231c). By sealing the slit (231c), the third material (430) can block particles, such as venting gas or flammable particles, from passing through the front busbar frame assembly (231).

[0093] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of FIG. 1. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the change in FIG. 10 when a thermal event occurs.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a top cover (150) may be positioned over a battery cell (220). A heat transfer member (260) may be disposed between the top cover (150) and the battery cell (220). The heat transfer member (260) may include a material with high thermal conductivity. The heat transfer member (260) may be a resin. The heat transfer member (260) may combine, fix, or attach a plurality of battery cells (220) and the top cover (150).

[0095] The top cover (150) may have a channel (151) inside. The channel (151) may extend along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple channels (151) may be provided. Multiple channels (151) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0096] The barrier (250) may be extended along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The barrier (250) may be extended along the length direction of the Euro (151).

[0097] The second substance (420) may be in a liquid state. The second substance (420) may flow along the flow path (151). In this case, the second substance (420) may function as a cooling liquid.

[0098] The top cover (150) may include a rupture portion (152). The rupture portion (152) may face the top of the barrier (250). A gap may be formed between the rupture portion (152) and the barrier (250). A heat transfer member (260) may not be placed between the rupture portion (152) and the barrier (250). The rupture portion (152) may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple rupture portions (152) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the barrier (250). Multiple rupture portions (152) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple rupture portions (152) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the flow path (151). The rupture portion (152) may be formed thinner than the thickness of the adjacent portion. The rupture portion (152) may be formed thinner than the thickness of the portion surrounding the rupture portion (152). By configuring the thickness of the rupture portion (152) to be thin, the rupture portion (152) can be easily ruptured. When a thermal event occurs, the rupture portion (152) can be easily melted or damaged. As the rupture portion (152) is damaged, a second material (420) can be injected into the interior of the case (100). The second material (420) can flow toward the barrier (250). The second material (420) can react with the first material (410) of the barrier (250) to produce a third material (430). The third material (430) can rapidly expand to fill the empty space of the case (100).

[0099] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 10. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the change of FIG. 12 when a thermal event occurs.

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the top cover (150) may include a spray hole (153). The spray hole (153) may face the top of the barrier (250). A gap may be formed between the spray hole (153) and the barrier (250). A heat transfer member (260) may not be placed between the spray hole (153) and the barrier (250). The spray hole (153) may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple spray holes (153) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the barrier (250). Multiple spray holes (153) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple spray holes (153) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the flow path (151).

[0101] The top cover (150) may include a melting member (154). The melting member (154) may cover the injection hole (153). The melting member (154) may fill the injection hole (153). The melting member (154) may include a material with a low melting point. When a thermal event occurs, the melting member (154) may melt easily. As the melting member (154) melts, the injection hole (153) may be opened. As the injection hole (153) is opened, a second material (420) may be injected into the interior of the case (100). The second material (420) may flow toward the barrier (250). The second material (420) may react with the first material (410) of the barrier (250) to produce a third material (430). The third material (430) can fill the empty space of the case (100) by rapidly expanding.

[0102] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 10. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the change of FIG. 14 when a thermal event occurs.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the top cover (150) may include an upper plate (150a). The upper plate (150a) may form the exterior of the battery assembly (1000). The upper plate (150a) may have a flat plate shape. The top cover (150) may include a lower plate (150b). The lower plate (150b) may be coupled, fastened, fixed, or attached to the lower surface of the upper plate (150a). The lower plate (150b) may include a flat plate portion (150b2). The flat plate portion (150b2) may be in contact with the lower surface of the upper plate (150a). The lower plate (150b) may include a protrusion (150b1). The protrusion (150b1) may protrude in a downward direction or in the -Z axis direction. The protrusion (150b1) may extend along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The protrusions (150b1) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple protrusions (150b1) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The flat plate portions (150b2) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple protrusions (150b1) and the multiple flat plate portions (150b2) may be arranged alternately.

[0104] A channel (151) may be formed between the protrusion (150b1) and the upper plate (150a). The second material (420) may flow between the protrusion (150b1) and the upper plate (150a).

[0105] The lower plate (150b) may include a rupture portion (152) at the bottom of the protrusion (150b1). The rupture portion (152) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple rupture portions (152) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the protrusion (150b1). The rupture portion (152) may face the top of the barrier (250).

[0106] A heat transfer member (260) may be placed between the flat plate (150b2) and the battery cell (220). The heat transfer member (260) may combine or attach the lower plate (150b) and the battery cell (220). A gap may be formed between the rupture portion (152) and the barrier (250). The heat transfer member (260) may not be placed between the rupture portion (152) and the barrier (250).

[0107] The rupture portion (152) may be formed thinner than the thickness of the adjacent protrusion (150b1). The rupture portion (152) may be formed thinner than the thickness of the protrusion (150b1) surrounding the rupture portion (152). By configuring the thickness of the rupture portion (152) to be thin, the rupture portion (152) can be easily ruptured. In the event of a thermal event, the rupture portion (152) can be easily melted or damaged. As the rupture portion (152) is damaged, the second material (420) can be injected into the interior of the case (100). The second material (420) can flow toward the barrier (250). The second material (420) can react with the first material (410) of the barrier (250) to produce a third material (430). The third material (430) can fill the empty space of the case (100) by rapidly expanding.

[0108] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 10. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the change of FIG. 16 when a thermal event occurs.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the lower plate (150b) may include a spray hole (153) at the bottom of the protrusion (150b1). The spray hole (153) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple spray holes (153) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the protrusion (150b1). The spray hole (153) may face the top of the barrier (250).

[0110] A gap may be formed between the injection hole (153) and the barrier (250). The heat transfer member (260) may not be placed between the injection hole (153) and the barrier (250).

[0111] The lower plate (150b) may include a melting member (154). The melting member (154) may cover the injection hole (153). The melting member (154) may fill the injection hole (153). The melting member (154) may include a material with a low melting point. When a thermal event occurs, the melting member (154) may melt easily. As the melting member (154) melts, the injection hole (153) may be opened. As the injection hole (153) is opened, a second material (420) may be injected into the interior of the case (100). The second material (420) may flow toward the barrier (250). The second material (420) may react with the first material (410) of the barrier (250) to produce a third material (430). The third material (430) can fill the empty space of the case (100) by rapidly expanding.

[0112] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a vehicle (V) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 18, the vehicle (V) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a battery assembly (1000) of the present invention. The battery assembly (1000) according to the present invention may be applied to a vehicle (V), such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may include a battery assembly (1000) according to the present invention. In addition, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery assembly (1000). For example, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may further include a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0113] As described above, although the present invention has been explained 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

1. A case including a top cover that provides internal space and is equipped with a Euro; A plurality of battery cells housed inside the above case and stacked along the left and right directions; A barrier located between the plurality of battery cells and comprising a first material; and, A battery assembly comprising a second material that is accommodated in the above Euro and configured to expand by reacting with the first material.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above second material is, A battery assembly configured to be injected into the interior of the case when a thermal event occurs.

3. In Paragraph 1, Each of the above plurality of battery cells is: A storage portion extending along the front-rear direction and equipped with an electrode assembly; and, It includes an electrode lead protruding forward from the above storage portion, and The above barrier is, A battery assembly comprising a first part located between the housing portions of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above barrier is, A battery assembly further comprising a second part extending along the front-rear direction from the first part and covering the front of the housing portion of the adjacent battery cell.

5. In Paragraph 4, The width of the above second part in the left-right direction is, A battery assembly configured to be larger than the width in the left-right direction of the first part above.

6. In Paragraph 4, It further includes a busbar frame assembly electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, and The above busbar frame assembly is, The device is provided with a slit through which the electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells pass, and The above barrier is, A battery assembly further comprising a third part extending from the second part and inserted into the slit.

7. In Paragraph 1, A battery assembly further comprising a heat transfer member disposed between the top cover and the plurality of battery cells.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above top cover is, A battery assembly comprising a rupture portion formed between the above Euro and the above barrier and configured to rupture upon the occurrence of a thermal event.

9. In Paragraph 8, The thickness of the above-mentioned rupture portion is, A battery assembly configured to be thinner than the thickness of the portion adjacent to the rupture portion.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above top cover is: A spray hole formed between the above Euro and the above barrier; and, A battery assembly including a melting member covering the injection hole.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above barrier is, A battery assembly extending along the longitudinal direction of the above Euro.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above barrier is, Battery assembly including fiber material.

13. In Paragraph 1, The above barrier is, It includes a shell that provides space inside, The above first substance is, A battery assembly placed inside the above shell.

14. An automobile comprising a battery assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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