Battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

A battery pack according to the present invention comprises: a cell assembly having a plurality of battery cells stacked on each other; a bottom frame having a first bottom part, which is spaced apart from the cell assembly to form a first venting space, and a second bottom part, which supports the cell assembly; and a partition wall member fixedly disposed on a side part of at least one of the battery cells and having a protrusion part protruding toward the first bottom part, wherein the protrusion part partitions the first venting space and is configured to be supported by the first bottom part.

Description

Battery pack and automobile including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack and an automobile including the same, and more specifically, to a battery pack in which heat transfer phenomena can be effectively prevented and structural stability can be enhanced, and an automobile including the same.

[0002] This application is a priority claim application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0158302 filed on November 8, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification of said application are incorporated into this application by reference.

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

[0004] Currently, widely used types of rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. Generally, lithium rechargeable batteries can be classified according to the shape of the casing into can-type rechargeable batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in a metal can, and pouch-type rechargeable batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in a pouch made of aluminum laminate sheets.

[0005] When a high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells may be connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Additionally, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells may be connected in parallel to form a battery module or battery pack. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery module or pack can be varied depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first construct a battery module containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery module to add other components to form a battery pack or battery rack. Alternatively, recently, battery packs in the form of a "Cell-to-Pack," in which multiple battery cells are directly housed in a pack housing without modularization, are also being manufactured.

[0007] However, when a battery pack contains multiple battery cells in this manner, it may be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between battery cells or battery modules. For example, if a thermal event, such as thermal runaway, occurs in a single battery cell, this thermal event can be transferred to other battery cells or modules. If this thermal transfer phenomenon is not properly suppressed, a thermal event originating in a specific battery cell can trigger a chain reaction in other battery cells or modules, potentially causing major problems such as explosions or fires.

[0008] Furthermore, battery packs can be vulnerable to external shocks or vibrations. If an external shock or vibration is applied to a battery pack, it can be transmitted to the battery cells inside. Battery cells may be physically deformed or electrically short-circuited by such shocks or vibrations, which can cause the cells to ignite. Therefore, it is important to reinforce the structural stability of the battery pack to prevent such shocks or vibrations from being directly transmitted to the battery cells, even if they are applied.

[0009] The present invention was conceived in consideration of the aforementioned problems and has one objective of providing a battery pack capable of effectively preventing heat transfer phenomena and an automobile including the same.

[0010] In addition, the present invention has another objective of providing a battery pack with enhanced structural stability and an automobile including the same.

[0011] The technical problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.

[0012] A battery pack according to the present invention comprises: a cell assembly having a plurality of battery cells stacked together; a bottom frame having a first bottom portion spaced apart from the cell assembly to form a first venting space, and a second bottom portion supporting the cell assembly; and a partition member fixedly disposed on the side of at least one battery cell and having a protrusion protruding toward the first bottom portion, wherein the protrusion is configured to partition the first venting space and be supported by the first bottom portion.

[0013] At least one of the above partition members may be disposed between any two adjacent battery cells.

[0014] The above bottom frame can be placed at the bottom of the cell assembly.

[0015] The above protrusion may be configured to guide the flow of venting gas in a direction different from the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells.

[0016] The first bottom portion is extended in a direction parallel to the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells, and the protrusions may be provided in a plurality so as to be arranged in a single row along the length direction of the first bottom portion.

[0017] In the battery pack according to the present invention, when viewed from the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells, the first bottom portion and the protrusion portion may each be provided with shapes corresponding to each other.

[0018] At least a portion of the above-mentioned protrusion may be configured to be in contact with the first bottom portion and supported in a vertical direction.

[0019] The bottom frame may further comprise a side plate connecting the first bottom portion and the second bottom portion, and at least a portion of the protrusion may be configured to be in contact with the side plate and supported laterally.

[0020] The above bulkhead member includes a cooling member configured to cool the battery cell, and the protrusion may include a first protrusion protruding from the cooling member toward the first bottom portion.

[0021] The above bulkhead member includes a pad member capable of blocking heat or flame, and the protrusion may include a second protrusion protruding from the pad member toward the first bottom portion.

[0022] The above bulkhead member includes a cooling member configured to cool the battery cell and a pad member having thermal insulation, and the protrusion may include a first protrusion protruding from the cooling member toward the first bottom portion and a second protrusion protruding from the pad member toward the first bottom portion.

[0023] The battery pack according to the present invention further includes an outer frame disposed on the outside of the bottom frame, a second venting space is formed between the second bottom portion and the outer frame, and the first venting space and the second venting space may be configured to communicate with each other.

[0024] The outer frame may be equipped with a venting device capable of communicating the second venting space and the outside of the battery pack with each other.

[0025] The cell assembly may further comprise a module case having a plurality of battery cells accommodated and a venting hole open toward the first venting space; and a vent cover that covers the venting hole and is configured to open toward the first venting space when a pressure greater than a predetermined size is formed.

[0026] The above protrusion may protrude through the vent cover.

[0027] The above vent cover comprises a material having rigidity, and the protrusion may be configured to be surrounded by the vent cover.

[0028] The automobile according to the present invention includes at least one battery pack according to the present invention.

[0029] According to the present invention, a battery pack in which the heat transfer phenomenon can be effectively prevented and an automobile including the same can be provided.

[0030] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack with enhanced structural stability and an automobile including the same can be provided.

[0031] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack and a vehicle including the same can be provided in which heat transfer between any two adjacent banks can be reliably prevented.

[0032] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack that ensures the safety of the occupant and a vehicle including the same can be provided.

[0033] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack with improved productivity and an automobile including the same can be provided.

[0034] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack capable of effectively cooling a battery cell and an automobile including the same can be provided.

[0035] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack and an automobile including the same can be provided, in which the transfer of heat or flame is prevented and swelling of the battery cell is also effectively mitigated.

[0036] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack in which the flow path of the venting gas can be expanded and an automobile including the same can be provided.

[0037] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack in which venting gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery pack and a vehicle including the same can be provided.

[0038] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack and an automobile including the same can be provided in which the backflow of venting gas can be effectively prevented.

[0039] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0040] 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.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the battery pack of Figure 1 disassembled.

[0043] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing an enlarged portion of Figure 2.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a part of the AA' section of FIG. 1.

[0045] Figure 5 is a side cross-sectional view showing a part of the BB' section of Figure 1.

[0046] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack according to another variation of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 9 is a plan view showing the pack lead and cell assembly removed from a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a cell assembly of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a vent cover disassembled in a cell assembly of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] 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, 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.

[0055] Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely some of the most preferred embodiments of the invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the invention, and that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0056] In this specification, unless otherwise specified, the X-axis direction is referred to as the front-back direction, the Y-axis direction orthogonal to the X-axis direction as the left-right direction, and the Z-axis direction orthogonal to the XY plane as the up-down direction (vertical direction).

[0057]

[0058] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the battery pack of FIG. 1 exploded, FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a part of FIG. 2 enlarged, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a part of the AA' cross section of FIG. 1, and FIG. 5 is a side cross-sectional view showing a part of the BB' cross section of FIG. 1.

[0059] Hereinafter, a battery pack (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. A battery pack (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cell assembly (100), a bottom frame (210), and a partition member (300).

[0060] In particular, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the cell assembly (100) may have a plurality of battery cells (110). The cell assembly (100) may have a predetermined width, length, and height in the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction, respectively. In the cell assembly (100), the plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked and arranged together. For example, the plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along the X-axis direction while standing upright in the Z-axis direction. When the plurality of battery cells (110) are arranged in this manner, it may be easy to control the discharge direction of the venting gas (VG), which will be described later, to one side.

[0061] The battery cell (110) may be a secondary battery. The battery cell (110) may be, for example, a pouch-type battery cell (110). However, the battery cell (110) is not limited thereto and may be provided as a cylindrical or prismatic battery cell (110).

[0062] A battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of cell assemblies (100).

[0063] The bottom frame (210) may have a first bottom portion (211) and a second bottom portion (212), as shown in FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 5.

[0064] A first venting space (VS1) may be formed in the first bottom portion (211).

[0065] When a thermal event occurs in one or more battery cells (110) of a cell assembly (100), high-temperature gas, flames, and solid discharges may be emitted from the battery cells (110), and such high-temperature gas, flames, and solid discharges may be collectively referred to as venting gas (VG).

[0066] The first venting space (VS1) may be a space where the venting gas (VG) discharged from the cell assembly can flow.

[0067] The cell assembly (100) can be configured so that the venting gas (VG) discharged from the battery cell (110) can be guided to be discharged into the first venting space (VS1).

[0068] The first bottom portion (211) may be spaced apart from the cell assembly (100) so that a first venting space (VS1) is formed. For example, the first bottom portion (211) and the cell assembly (100) may be spaced apart from each other in the Z-axis direction, and the first venting space (VS1) may be formed in the gap thus spaced apart. The first bottom portion (211) may be provided in a concave shape toward the cell assembly (100), for example.

[0069] The second bottom portion (212) can support the cell assembly (100). The second bottom portion (212) can support the cell assembly (100) in the Z-axis direction. The second bottom portion (212) can be provided, for example, in a convex shape toward the cell assembly (100).

[0070] A partition member (300) may be disposed on the side of at least one battery cell (110), as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. Here, the side of the battery cell (110) may be understood as the side portion in the X-axis direction of the battery cell (110). The partition member (300) may be disposed on one side or both sides of the battery cell (110). The partition member (300) may be in face-to-face contact with the side of the battery cell (110).

[0071] The partition member (300) can be fixedly positioned on the side of the battery cell (110). Various methods can be applied to the fixing method of the partition member (300).

[0072] The partition member (300) may be provided with a protrusion (310). The protrusion (310) may protrude toward the first bottom portion (211). The protrusion (310) may protrude from the partition member (300) toward the first bottom portion (211). The protrusion (310) may be formed integrally with the partition member (300) and may be a part of the partition member (300).

[0073] The protrusion (310) can partition the first venting space (VS1). By the protrusion (310), the first venting space (VS1) can be partitioned from one side and the other side of the protrusion (310). The first venting space (VS1) partitioned on one side of the protrusion (310) and the first venting space (VS1) partitioned on the other side of the protrusion (310) can be blocked from one another by the protrusion (310). Accordingly, the venting gas (VG) flowing in the first venting space (VS1) partitioned on either one side or the other side of the protrusion (310) can be blocked from flowing into the first venting space (VS1) partitioned on the other side.

[0074] In addition, since the venting gas (VG) flowing in the first venting space (VS1) is blocked by the protrusion (310), the protrusion (310) can guide the flow direction of the venting gas (VG).

[0075] The protrusion (310) can be supported by the first bottom portion (211). As the protrusion (310) is supported by the first bottom portion (211), the partition member (300) having the protrusion (310) can be supported, and the battery cell (110) in which the partition member (300) is fixedly positioned can also be supported. And, as the battery cell (110) is supported, the cell assembly (100) can be supported as a result.

[0076] When a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured as described above, the inflow of venting gas (VG) between the first venting spaces (VS1) partitioned by the protrusion (310) can be blocked, thereby preventing venting gas (VG) discharged from one or more battery cells (110) from flowing into other battery cells (110) or cell assemblies (100). Accordingly, the battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention can effectively prevent a heat transfer phenomenon in which a thermal event generated in one or more battery cells (110) is transferred to other battery cells (110) or cell assemblies (100).

[0077] In addition, in a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the cell assembly (100) can be supported by the second bottom portion (212) and simultaneously additionally supported from the first bottom portion (211) by the protrusion (310), thereby enhancing the structural stability of the battery pack (10).

[0078]

[0079] Meanwhile, in the bottom frame (210), the first bottom portion (211) and the second bottom portion (212) may be configured in a continuous form. The second bottom portion (212) may be positioned on both sides of the first bottom portion (211), and the first bottom portion (211) may be positioned between two adjacent second bottom portions (212). The first bottom portion (211) and the second bottom portion (212) may be configured alternately.

[0080] Meanwhile, a foam member (F) may be disposed between the cell assembly (100) and the second bottom portion (212). The foam member (F) may be provided in the form of foam. The foam member (F) can prevent tolerance between the cell assembly (100) and the second bottom portion (212) and can prevent the transmission of shock or vibration between the cell assembly (100) and the second bottom portion (212).

[0081]

[0082] In particular, referring to FIG. 4, at least one partition member (300) may be positioned between any two adjacent battery cells (110). Specifically, at least one partition member (300) may be positioned between the sides of any two adjacent battery cells (110).

[0083] When the partition member (300) is arranged in this manner, the first venting spaces (VS1) corresponding to each of the two adjacent battery cells (110) can be effectively partitioned and blocked from each other. As a result, heat transfer between the battery cells (110) can be reliably prevented.

[0084]

[0085] Meanwhile, in the cell assembly (100), a plurality of battery cells (110) can be grouped into bank units. A plurality of battery cells (110) can be configured such that two battery cells (110) form one bank unit, for example, as shown in FIG. 4. A protrusion (310) can be provided between each of any two adjacent banks, and in this case, heat transfer between any two adjacent banks can be reliably prevented.

[0086]

[0087] In particular, referring to FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, the bottom frame (210) may be positioned at the bottom of the cell assembly (100). In this case, a first venting space (VS1) is provided at the bottom of the cell assembly (100) so that the venting gas (VG) can be discharged in a downward direction, and the battery pack (10) may be configured with a bottom venting structure.

[0088] In the case of a vehicle equipped with a battery pack (10), a passenger, such as a driver, is generally positioned above the battery cells (110). If venting gas (VG) is discharged upwards from the battery cells (110) due to a thermal event, it can pose a significant risk to the passenger's safety. Therefore, as in the present invention, if the battery pack (10) is configured with a lower venting structure, the discharge of venting gas (VG) can be directed downwards, opposite to the passenger, thereby ensuring the passenger's safety.

[0089] When the bottom frame (210) is positioned at the bottom of the cell assembly (100), the second bottom portion (212) can support the cell assembly (100) in an upward direction. In this case, the structural stability of the battery pack (10) in the vertical direction can be enhanced.

[0090]

[0091] In particular, referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the protrusion (310) may be configured to guide the flow of venting gas (VG) in a direction different from the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells (110).

[0092] In the cell assembly (100), a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along the X-axis direction as described above, and the protrusion (310) may be configured to guide the flow of venting gas (VG) in a direction other than the X-axis direction. For example, the protrusion (310) may be extended in the Y-axis direction and configured to guide the flow of venting gas (VG) in the Y-axis direction.

[0093] When the protrusion (310) is configured to guide the flow of venting gas (VG) in a direction different from the stacking direction of the battery cell (110) as described above, the venting gas (VG) discharged from one or more battery cells (110) can be effectively prevented from flowing into another battery cell (110) adjacent to the stacking direction.

[0094]

[0095] In particular, referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first bottom portion (211) can be extended. Specifically, the first bottom portion (211) can be extended in a direction parallel to the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells (110). For example, if the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells (110) is the X-axis direction, the first bottom portion (211) can be formed by extending in the X-axis direction. When the first bottom portion (211) is extended in this way, the plurality of battery cells (110) of the cell assembly (100) can all correspond to one first bottom portion (211).

[0096] The first bottom portion (211) may extend to the battery cells (110) positioned at the outermost sides of the cell assembly (100). In this case, the first bottom portion (211) may correspond to all the battery cells (110) of the cell assembly (100).

[0097] The protrusions (310) may be provided in multiple numbers so as to be arranged in a single row along the length direction of the first bottom portion (211). For example, they may be provided in multiple numbers so as to be arranged in a single row in the X-axis direction.

[0098] When the first bottom portion (211) and the protrusion (310) are configured as described above, a plurality of partitioned first venting spaces (VS1) can be provided simply by placing the protrusion (310) on the first bottom portion (211), thereby allowing the plurality of partitioned first venting spaces (VS1) to be easily manufactured and the design modified, and as a result, the productivity of the battery pack (10) can be improved.

[0099]

[0100] In particular, referring to FIG. 5, the first bottom portion (211) and the protrusion (310) may each be provided with corresponding shapes. Specifically, when viewed from the stacking direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of a plurality of battery cells (110), the first bottom portion (211) and the protrusion (310) may each be provided with corresponding shapes.

[0101] For example, the first bottom portion (211) may be formed concavely in an inverted trapezoidal shape that narrows toward the bottom, and the protrusion (310) may be formed convexly in an inverted trapezoidal shape corresponding to the first bottom portion (211).

[0102] In this way, when the first bottom portion (211) and the protrusion (310) are provided with corresponding shapes, the first venting space (VS1) can be more clearly partitioned by the protrusion (310).

[0103]

[0104] In particular, referring to FIG. 5, at least a portion of the protrusion (310) may be in contact with the first bottom portion (211). For example, the lower portion of the protrusion (310) may be in contact with the upper surface of the first bottom portion (211).

[0105] At least a portion of the protrusion (310) may be configured to be supported in a vertical direction. For example, the lower portion of the protrusion (310) may be configured to be supported upward by the first bottom portion (211).

[0106] When the protrusion (310) is configured as described above, the protrusion (310) can be directly supported by the first bottom part (211), thereby strengthening the support force, and since the protrusion (310) can be supported vertically, the structural stability of the battery pack (10) in the vertical direction can be further strengthened.

[0107]

[0108] In particular, referring to FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 5, the bottom frame (210) may further include a side plate portion (213).

[0109] The side plate (213) may be configured to connect the first bottom part (211) and the second bottom part (212). The first bottom part (211) and the second bottom part (212) may be positioned at different heights. For example, with respect to the Z-axis direction, the first bottom part (211) may be positioned lower than the second bottom part (212). The side plate (213) may be configured to connect the first bottom part (211) and the second bottom part (212) positioned at different heights in this manner.

[0110] At least a portion of the protrusion (310) may be in contact with the side plate (213). For example, one or both sides of the protrusion (310) may be in contact with the side plate (213).

[0111] At least a portion of the protrusion (310) may be configured to be supported laterally. For example, the side end of the protrusion (310) may be configured to be supported in the Y-axis direction by the side plate (213).

[0112] When the bottom frame (210) and the protrusion (310) are configured as described above, the protrusion (310) can be directly supported by the side plate (213), thereby strengthening the support force, and the protrusion (310) can be supported laterally, thereby strengthening the structural stability of the battery pack (10) laterally.

[0113]

[0114] In particular, referring to FIG. 4, the partition member (300) may include a cooling member (300a). Specifically, at least one of the partition members (300) may be composed of a cooling member (300a).

[0115] The cooling member (300a) may be configured to cool the battery cell (110). The cooling member (300a) may have a channel inside through which a cooling medium can flow.

[0116] The cooling member (300a) can be positioned on the side of the battery cell (110), so that the battery cell (110) can be cooled from the side by the cooling member (300a). In the case of side cooling, a large cooling area can be secured, so that efficient cooling of the battery cell (110) can be achieved.

[0117] The protrusion (310) may include a first protrusion (310a). The first protrusion (310a) may be a portion protruding from the cooling member (300a) toward the first bottom portion (211). Specifically, when the partition member (300) is the cooling member (300a), it may be understood that the protrusion (310) of the partition member (300) is the first protrusion (310a).

[0118] As described above, when the partition member (300) includes a cooling member (300a) and the protrusion (310) includes a first protrusion (310a), there is an advantage that the cooling member (300a) can effectively cool the battery cell (110) while simultaneously performing the function of the partition member (300).

[0119]

[0120] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] In particular, referring to FIG. 6, in a battery pack (10) according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention, the partition member (300) may include a pad member (300b). Specifically, at least one of the partition members (300) may be composed of a pad member (300b).

[0122] The pad member (300b) may be configured to block heat or flame. To this end, the pad member may include a material having thermal insulation and / or flame retardancy. The pad member (300b) may also include an elastic material to enable swelling absorption.

[0123] The protrusion (310) may include a second protrusion (310b). The second protrusion (310b) may be a portion protruding from the pad member (300b) toward the first bottom portion (211). Specifically, when the partition member (300) is the pad member (300b), it may be understood that the protrusion (310) of the partition member (300) is the second protrusion (310b).

[0124] As described above, when the partition member (300) includes a pad member (300b) and the protrusion (310) includes a second protrusion (310b), not only is the transfer of heat or flame by the pad member (300b) prevented, but swelling of the battery cell (110) can also be effectively mitigated, and at the same time, the pad member (300b) can also perform the function of the partition member (300).

[0125]

[0126] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack according to another variation of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0127] In particular, referring to FIG. 7, the partition member (300) includes a cooling member (300a) and a pad member (300b), and the protrusion (310) may include a first protrusion (310a) and a second protrusion (310b). That is, a battery pack (10) according to another variation of an embodiment of the present invention may be a battery pack (10) according to an embodiment in which the embodiments of FIG. 4 and FIG. 6 are combined.

[0128] When the partition member (300) and the protrusion (310) are configured in this way, the first venting space (VS1) can be divided into a larger number of sections, so that heat transfer can be prevented more effectively, and since a larger number of protrusions (310) are supported by the first bottom section (211), the structural stability of the battery pack (10) can be further strengthened.

[0129]

[0130] FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a plan view showing the battery pack with the pack lead and cell assembly removed according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] Hereinafter, a battery pack (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 3, 8, and 9.

[0132] A battery pack (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include an outer frame (220). The outer frame (220) may be disposed on the outside of the bottom frame (210). For example, the outer frame (220) may be disposed on the lower side of the bottom frame (210).

[0133] A second venting space (VS2) may be formed between the second bottom portion (212) and the outer frame (220). For example, the second venting space (VS2) may be formed by the second bottom portion (212) and the outer frame (220) being spaced apart in the Z-axis direction. The second venting space (VS2) may be a space through which venting gas (VG) flows.

[0134] The first venting space (VS1) and the second venting space (VS2) can be configured to communicate with each other. For example, at least one communication hole (H) may be formed in the side plate (213), and the communication hole (H) may communicate with the first venting space (VS1) and the second venting space (VS2). When the first venting space (VS1) and the second venting space (VS2) are configured to communicate with each other in this way, the venting gas (VG) discharged from the cell assembly (100) to the first venting space (VS1) can be discharged to the second venting space (VS2).

[0135] When the battery pack (10) further includes an outer frame (220) as described above to form a second venting space (VS2), there is an advantage that the flow path of the venting gas (VG) can be expanded.

[0136]

[0137] The outer frame (220) may be equipped with a venting device (400). The venting device (400) may be connected to the outside of the second venting space (VS2) and the battery pack (10). The venting device (400) may be configured so that the venting gas (VG) flowing in the second venting space (VS2) can be discharged to the outside.

[0138] The venting device (400) may be in the form of a simple hole penetrating the outer frame (220). Alternatively, it may be configured not only to be completely open, but also to be closed under normal conditions and open when a change in pressure or temperature occurs inside the second venting space (VS2).

[0139] In this way, when the outer frame (220) is equipped with a venting device (400), there is an advantage that the venting gas (VG) flowing in the second venting space (VS2) can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (10).

[0140] Meanwhile, a routing frame (R) may be disposed in the second venting space (VS2). The routing frame (R) may be provided in a form that surrounds a part of the second venting space (VS2) and may be configured to change the flow direction of the venting gas (VG) in the second venting space (VS2). For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the venting gas (VG) discharged in the Y-axis direction from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) may strike the routing frame (R), be guided in the X-axis direction and outward direction, and then flow into the inside of the routing frame (R) at the X-axis direction end of the routing frame (R).

[0141] Meanwhile, the routing frame (R) can support the second bottom portion (212). For example, the routing frame (R) can support the second bottom portion (212) in a vertical direction.

[0142] Meanwhile, the venting device (400) can be placed inside the routing frame (R).

[0143]

[0144] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a cell assembly of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a vent cover disassembled from a cell assembly of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12, a battery pack (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0146] A cell assembly (100) of a battery pack (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include a module case (120) and a vent cover (130).

[0147] A plurality of battery cells (110) can be accommodated in the module case (120). The module case (120) can form the overall shape of the cell assembly (100). When the cell assembly (100) is equipped with the module case (120), the cell assembly (100) can be composed of a battery module.

[0148] The module case (120) may be provided with a venting hole (VH). The venting hole (VH) may be a hole open toward a first venting space (VS1). The venting hole (VH) may be provided, for example, approximately in the center of the bottom (121) of the module case (120). The venting hole (VH) may be extended along the stacking direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of a plurality of battery cells (110), for example.

[0149] Meanwhile, a cell assembly (100) according to one embodiment or another embodiment of the present invention may also likewise be provided with a module case (120).

[0150] The vent cover (130) can cover the venting hole (VH). The vent cover (130) may be configured to open toward the first venting space (VS1) when a pressure greater than a predetermined size is formed. For example, the vent cover (130) may be provided with an openable / closeable opening / closing part (131). The opening / closing part (131) may be provided, for example, in the form of a slit-processed cut line. The opening / closing part (131) may also be provided in a form that is easy to break, for example, by notching or slitting in the form of a dotted line. The opening / closing part (131) may be provided corresponding to each battery cell (110) or each bank.

[0151] When the battery pack (10) is configured as described above, the venting gas (VG) passing through the venting hole (VH) from the cell assembly (100) can be effectively prevented from flowing back into the cell assembly (100) through the venting hole (VH) by the vent cover (130).

[0152]

[0153] The protrusion (310) can protrude through the vent cover (130). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the vent cover (130) can be positioned lower than the cell assembly (100) and higher than the first bottom portion (211), and the protrusion (310) can protrude through the vent cover (130) toward the first bottom portion (211).

[0154] The vent cover (130) may have a through hole (132) through which the protrusion (310) passes.

[0155] When the protrusion (310) and the vent cover (130) are configured as described above, the function of the protrusion (310), such as partitioning the first venting space (VS1) and being supported by the first bottom part (211), is maintained, while the vent cover (130) can be efficiently positioned at the same time.

[0156]

[0157] The vent cover (130) may include a material having rigidity. For example, the vent cover (130) may include a metal material such as SUS.

[0158] The protrusion (310) may be configured to be surrounded by the vent cover (130). For example, the protrusion (310) may be surrounded in a horizontal direction (X-axis direction to Y-axis direction) by the through hole (132) of the vent cover (130).

[0159] When the vent cover (130) is configured as described above, the protrusion (310) can be more stably supported in the horizontal direction by the vent cover (130).

[0160]

[0161] Meanwhile, referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery pack (10) according to the present invention may further include a side wall frame (230), a partition frame (240), and a pack lid (250). The side wall frame (230) surrounds the bottom frame (210) and, together with the bottom frame (210), may form a receiving space capable of accommodating at least one cell assembly (100). The partition frame (240) may partition the receiving space, and a plurality of cell assemblies (100) may be correspondingly accommodated in each partitioned receiving space. The pack lid (250) may be provided to cover the receiving space and may be provided to cover the upper part of the receiving space. The bottom frame (210), outer frame (220), side wall frame (230), partition frame (240), and pack lid (250) may be collectively referred to as a pack case (200).

[0162]

[0163] Meanwhile, the battery pack (10) according to the present invention may further include various devices for controlling the charging and discharging of battery cells (110), such as a Battery Management System (BMS), a current sensor, a fuse, etc., although not shown.

[0164]

[0165] Preferred examples of a battery pack (10) according to the present invention have been described above. The technical concept of the present invention is not limited to these examples, and may also include any combination of two or more of them.

[0166]

[0167] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 13 below, the battery pack (10) according to the present invention can 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 the battery pack (10) according to the present invention. The battery pack (10) may be installed in the vehicle body frame or trunk space under the vehicle seat. Furthermore, the vehicle (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery pack (10). For example, the vehicle (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include, in addition to the battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc.

[0169] In addition, it is obvious that the battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may also be provided in other devices, mechanisms, and facilities, such as an energy storage system using a secondary battery, in addition to a vehicle (V).

[0170]

[0171] In this specification, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back have been used; however, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that they may vary depending on the location of the object or the position of the observer.

[0172] 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.

[0173] [Explanation of the symbol]

[0174] 10: Battery pack

[0175] 100 : Cell Assembly

[0176] 110: Battery cell

[0177] 120 : Modular case

[0178] 121 : Low

[0179] 130 : Vent cover

[0180] 131 : Opening / closing part

[0181] 132 : Through hole

[0182] 200 : Pack case

[0183] 210 : Bottom frame

[0184] 211 : 1st bottom part

[0185] 212 : Second bottom part

[0186] 213 : Side panel

[0187] 220 : Outer frame

[0188] 230 : Sidewall frame

[0189] 240 : Partition Frame

[0190] 250: Pack Lead

[0191] 300 : Bulkhead member

[0192] 300a : Cooling element

[0193] 300b : Pad absence

[0194] 310 : Protrusion

[0195] 310a : First protrusion

[0196] 310b : Second protrusion

[0197] 400 : Venting device

[0198] F : Foam member

[0199] H: Chimney hole

[0200] R: Routing frame

[0201] VG: Venting gas

[0202] VH : Venting hole

[0203] VS1: 1st venting space

[0204] VS2 : Second venting space

[0205] V : Car

Claims

1. A cell assembly having a plurality of battery cells stacked together; A bottom frame having a first bottom portion spaced apart from the cell assembly to form a first venting space, and a second bottom portion supporting the cell assembly; and It includes a partition member fixedly disposed on the side of at least one battery cell and having a protrusion protruding toward the first bottom portion, The above protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by partitioning the first venting space and being configured to be supported by the first bottom portion.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above bulkhead member is, A battery pack characterized by having at least one disposed between any two adjacent battery cells.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above bottom frame is, A battery pack characterized by being positioned at the bottom of the cell assembly.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by being configured to guide the flow of venting gas in a direction different from the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned first bottom part is, Extended in a direction parallel to the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells, and The above protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by having a plurality of units arranged in a single row along the length direction of the first bottom portion.

6. In Paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized in that, when viewed from the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells, the first bottom portion and the protrusion portion are each provided with shapes corresponding to each other.

7. In Paragraph 1, At least a portion of the above-mentioned protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by being configured to be in contact with the first bottom portion and supported in a vertical direction.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above bottom frame is, Further comprising a side plate connecting the first bottom portion and the second bottom portion, At least a portion of the above-mentioned protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by being configured to be in contact with the above-mentioned side plate and supported laterally.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above bulkhead member is, It includes a cooling member configured to cool the battery cell, and The above protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by including a first protrusion protruding from the cooling member toward the first bottom portion.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above bulkhead member is, It includes a pad member capable of blocking heat or flame, and The above protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by including a second protrusion protruding from the pad member toward the first bottom portion.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above bulkhead member is, It includes a cooling member configured to cool the battery cell and a pad member having thermal insulation properties, and The above protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by including a first protrusion protruding from the cooling member toward the first bottom portion, and a second protrusion protruding from the pad member toward the first bottom portion.

12. In Paragraph 1, It further includes an outer frame positioned on the outside of the bottom frame, and A second venting space is formed between the second bottom portion and the outer frame, and A battery pack characterized in that the first venting space and the second venting space are configured to be in communication with each other.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above outer frame is, A battery pack characterized by having a venting device capable of communicating the second venting space and the outside of the battery pack with each other.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above cell assembly is, A module case having a plurality of the above-mentioned battery cells accommodated and a venting hole open toward the first venting space; and A battery pack characterized by further comprising a vent cover that covers the venting hole, configured to open toward the first venting space when a pressure greater than a predetermined size is formed.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by protruding through the above-mentioned vent cover.

16. In Paragraph 15, The above vent cover is, It includes a material having rigidity, The above protrusion is, A battery pack characterized by being configured to be surrounded by the above-mentioned vent cover.

17. An automobile characterized by including at least one battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

Images