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; a bottom frame disposed on one side of the cell assembly, the bottom frame being provided with a first venting space exposed to the cell assembly, a second venting space communicating with the first venting space, and a third venting space communicating with the second venting space via at least one opening; and one or more flow guide members disposed in the second venting space and configured to guide the flow of venting gas, which is discharged into the second venting space, in the direction going toward the at least one opening.

Description

Battery pack and automobile including the same

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

[0002] This application is a priority application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0162457 filed November 14, 2024 and U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 318,111 filed September 3, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said applications are incorporated by reference into this application.

[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] The present invention provides a battery pack capable of smooth venting when a thermal event occurs, and an automobile including the same.

[0008] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack in which a heat transfer phenomenon can be effectively prevented or suppressed, and an automobile including the same.

[0009] 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.

[0010] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cell assembly having a plurality of battery cells; a bottom frame disposed on one side of the cell assembly, wherein a first venting space exposed to the cell assembly, a second venting space communicating with the first venting space, and a third venting space communicating with the second venting space through at least one opening are provided; and one or more flow guide members disposed in the second venting space and configured to guide the flow direction of a venting gas discharged into the second venting space toward the opening.

[0011] The above flow guide member may be disposed between the first venting space and the third venting space among the second venting spaces.

[0012] At least one of the above-mentioned flow guide members may be formed inclined toward the opening.

[0013] The above flow guide member may be formed concavely toward the first venting space.

[0014] The above opening includes a first opening formed at one end of the third venting space and a second opening formed at the other end, and the flow guide member may be provided symmetrically toward the first opening and the second opening.

[0015] In the battery pack according to the present invention, in the cell assembly, a plurality of battery cells are grouped in units of banks, and the flow guide member may be provided corresponding to each bank.

[0016] The above flow guide member may be provided in a pin shape.

[0017] The battery pack according to the present invention may further include a partition member disposed between any two adjacent flow guide members and configured to block the flow of venting gas.

[0018] The above opening includes a first opening formed at one end of the third venting space and a second opening formed at the other end, and the partition member may be positioned at a position corresponding to the central position of the first opening and the second opening.

[0019] In the battery pack according to the present invention, in the cell assembly, a plurality of battery cells are stacked and arranged together, and the first venting space may be extended in a direction parallel to the stacking direction of the plurality of battery cells.

[0020] The bottom frame may be provided with a routing frame that is positioned inside the second venting space and forms the third venting space.

[0021] The bottom frame further comprises an inner frame disposed on one side of the cell assembly; and an outer frame disposed on one side of the inner frame, wherein the routing frame is disposed between the inner frame and the outer frame, the first venting space is formed between the cell assembly and the inner frame, and the second venting space may be formed between the inner frame and the outer frame.

[0022] The above-mentioned fluid guide member may be configured to support the inner frame and the outer frame.

[0023] The above-mentioned flow guide member may be spaced apart from the upper routing frame.

[0024] The above bottom frame can be placed at the bottom of the cell assembly.

[0025] The battery pack according to the present invention may further include a venting device capable of communicating the third venting space and the outside of the battery pack with each other.

[0026] The automobile according to the present invention includes at least one battery pack according to the present invention.

[0027] According to the present invention, a battery pack capable of smooth venting when a thermal event occurs and an automobile including the same can be provided.

[0028] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack in which a heat transfer phenomenon can be effectively prevented or suppressed and an automobile including the same can be provided.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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 or suppressed.

[0031] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack in which the flow of venting gas can be reliably partitioned and dispersed, and an automobile including the same can be provided.

[0032] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack in which the flow of venting gas can be uniformly distributed and an automobile including the same can be provided.

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

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate 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.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the battery pack of Figure 1 disassembled.

[0040] Figure 3 is a side cross-sectional view showing a part of the AA' section of Figure 1.

[0041] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 5 is a plan view showing an enlarged portion of Figure 4.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of a bottom frame according to one embodiment of the present invention cut and enlarged.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a plan view showing an enlarged portion of the interior of a battery pack according to a modified example of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing an enlarged portion of the interior of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a bottom frame of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the bottom frame of FIG. 9 exploded.

[0048] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a cell assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a vent cover disassembled in a cell assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] In parts of the attached drawings, corresponding components are given the same reference numerals. Those skilled in the art understand that the drawings are intended to illustrate elements simply and clearly and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, to aid in understanding various embodiments, the dimensions of some elements depicted in the drawings may be exaggerated compared to others. Additionally, elements of known technology that are useful or essential in commercially viable embodiments may often be omitted so as not to hinder the spirit of the various embodiments of the present invention.

[0052] 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.

[0053] Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely some embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention, and that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0054] 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).

[0055] When a battery pack contains multiple battery cells, 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 is not properly suppressed, a thermal event originating in a specific battery cell can trigger a chain reaction in other cells or modules, potentially causing serious problems such as explosions or fires.

[0056] The present invention provides a battery pack and an automobile including the same, which enables smooth venting and effectively prevents or suppresses heat transfer phenomena even when a thermal event occurs in a battery cell.

[0057]

[0058] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the battery pack (10) of FIG. 1 in disassembly, FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view showing a part of the AA' cross-section of FIG. 1, FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a part of the interior of a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a plan view showing an enlarged part of FIG. 4.

[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 flow guide member (300).

[0060] 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] A battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of cell assemblies (100).

[0062] 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).

[0063] The bottom frame (210) may be positioned on one side of the cell assembly (100). For example, the bottom frame (210) may be positioned on one side of the cell assembly (100) in the Z-axis direction.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the bottom frame (210) may be provided with a first venting space (VS1), a second venting space (VS2), and a third venting space (VS3).

[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 exposed to the cell assembly (100) through which the venting gas (VG) discharged from the cell assembly (100) can flow.

[0067] The second venting space (VS2) may be connected to the first venting space (VS1). The second venting space (VS2) may be a space through which the venting gas (VG) discharged from the first venting space (VS1) can flow.

[0068] The third venting space (VS3) may be connected to the second venting space (VS2). The third venting space (VS3) may be a space through which venting gas (VG) discharged from the second venting space (VS2) can flow. The second venting space (VS2) and the third venting space (VS3) may be connected to each other through at least one opening (O1, O2). The opening (O1, O2) may be understood as a portion formed by opening toward the second venting space (VS2) at at least one end of the third venting space (VS3).

[0069] The third venting space (VS3) may be provided, for example, inside the second venting space (VS2). The third venting space (VS3) may be provided in the approximately central area of ​​the second venting space (VS2) when viewed from the Z-axis direction, for example, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0070] Venting gas (VG) discharged from one or more battery cells (110) of the cell assembly (100) into the first venting space (VS1) can flow through the second venting space (VS2) to the third venting space (VS3).

[0071] The flow guide member (300) may be placed in the second venting space (VS2). The flow guide member (300) may be placed inside the second venting space (VS2).

[0072] The flow guide member (300) may be configured to guide the flow direction of the venting gas (VG) discharged into the second venting space (VS2) in a specific direction. For example, the flow guide member (300) may be configured to guide the flow direction of the venting gas (VG) discharged from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) in a direction toward the openings (O1, O2) of the third venting space (VS3).

[0073] One or more flow guide members (300) may be provided. Multiple flow guide members (300) may be provided.

[0074] As described below, the openings (O1, O2) may be formed at one end and the other end of the third venting space (VS3), respectively. In this case, the flow guide member (300) may be configured to guide the flow direction of the venting gas (VG) discharged into the second venting space (VS2) in both directions toward the respective openings (O1, O2) of the third venting space (VS3).

[0075] A battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a first venting space (VS1), a second venting space (VS2), and a third venting space (VS3), so that the flow path of the venting gas (VG) can be effectively expanded, and in the process of the flow of the venting gas (VG), the flow energy of the venting gas (VG) can be reduced quickly and smoothly, and particles such as ash or byproducts can be removed early.

[0076] In addition, a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a flow guide member (300) configured as described above, so that the venting gas (VG) discharged from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) can be guided quickly and smoothly to the third venting space (VS3). Furthermore, as the flow direction of the venting gas (VG) is guided as described above, the backflow of the venting gas (VG) from the second venting space (VS2) into the first venting space (VS1) can be effectively prevented or suppressed. In the battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in one or more battery cells (110) of the cell assembly (100), smooth venting is possible, and the heat transfer phenomenon can also be effectively prevented or suppressed.

[0077]

[0078] Meanwhile, the bottom frame (210) may be provided with at least one communication hole (H). The first venting space (VS1) and the second venting space (VS2) may be connected to each other through the communication hole (H).

[0079]

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the flow guide member (300) may be positioned between the first venting space (VS1) and the third venting space (VS3) in the second venting space (VS2). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the flow guide member (300) may be positioned in a part of the second venting space (VS2) located between the first venting space (VS1) and the third venting space (VS3) in the Y-axis direction.

[0081] In this case, since the flow guide member (300) is positioned close to the first venting space (VS1), the flow of the venting gas (VG) discharged from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) can be guided more directly.

[0082]

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, at least one flow guide member (300) may be formed inclined toward the opening (O1, O2). When a plurality of flow guide members (300) are provided, some or all of the plurality of flow guide members (300) may be formed inclined toward the opening (O1, O2).

[0084] At least one flow guide member (300) can be formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle of inclination.

[0085] Here, the term "angle of inclination" can be understood as the smaller of the angles formed between the direction from the first venting space (VS1) toward the second venting space (VS2) when looking at the bottom frame (210) from the cell assembly (100) and the imaginary line segment connecting both ends of the flow guide member (300) (for example, an imaginary line segment connecting one end close to the first venting space (VS1) and the other end far from the first venting space (VS1). For example, as shown in FIG. 5, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the second venting space (VS2) may be provided on the Y-axis side of the first venting space (VS1), and the angle of inclination can be understood as an acute angle between the imaginary line segment connecting the Y-axis and both ends of the flow guide member (300).

[0086] In this way, when at least one flow guide member (300) is formed at an angle toward the openings (O1, O2), the venting gas (VG) discharged from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) can be guided more quickly and smoothly to the third venting space (VS3), and the backflow of the venting gas (VG) from the second venting space (VS2) into the first venting space (VS1) can be more effectively prevented or suppressed.

[0087]

[0088] Meanwhile, among the areas where the flow guide member (300) is placed, any area relatively far from the opening (O1, O2) of the third venting space (VS3) may be referred to as the first area (A1), and any area relatively close to the opening (O1, O2) of the third venting space (VS3) may be referred to as the second area (A2).

[0089] At this time, at least one of the flow guide members (300) disposed in the first region (A1) may be formed to be inclined at a first angle (a1) toward the nearby openings (O1, O2), for example. And at least one of the flow guide members (300) disposed in the second region (A2) may be formed to be inclined at a second angle (a2) toward the nearby openings (O1, O2), for example.

[0090] The first angle (a1) can be formed to be larger than the second angle (a2). The inclination angle of the flow guide member (300) can be formed to gradually decrease from the first region (A1) to the second region (A2).

[0091]

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the openings (O1, O2) include a first opening (O1) and a second opening (O2), and the flow guide member (300) may be provided symmetrically.

[0093] For example, the openings (O1, O2) may include a first opening (O1) formed at one end of the third venting space (VS3) and a second opening (O2) formed at the other end of the third venting space (VS3). For example, based on the drawing, the first opening (O1) may be formed at the -X direction side end of the third venting space (VS3), and the second opening (O2) may be formed at the +X direction side end of the third venting space (VS3).

[0094] Additionally, the flow guide member (300) may be provided symmetrically toward the first opening (O1) and the second opening (O2). The flow guide member (300) may be provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple flow guide members (300) may be arranged or formed symmetrically toward the first opening (O1) and the second opening (O2). The multiple flow guide members (300) may be provided symmetrically in the X-axis direction, for example, with respect to the center line (M) described later.

[0095] In FIG. 5, a center line (M) is illustrated for convenience of explanation. The center line (M) can be understood as an imaginary line passing through the center of the first opening (O1) and the second opening (O2). For example, the center line (M) can be understood as an imaginary line passing through the center of the first opening (O1) and the second opening (O2) in the X-axis direction and parallel to the Y-axis direction. The center line (M) may pass through the aforementioned first area (A1). The aforementioned second area (A2) may be an area spaced apart from this first area (A1) in the -X direction and the +X direction.

[0096] When the openings (O1, O2) include the first opening (O1) and the second opening (O2) as described above, the third venting space (VS3) can be connected to the second venting space (VS2) on both sides, so that the venting gas (VG) flowing in the second venting space (VS2) can be discharged more smoothly into the third venting space (VS3). Furthermore, when the flow guide member (300) is provided symmetrically toward the first opening (O1) and the second opening (O2) as described above, the flow of the venting gas (VG) discharged from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) can be uniformly distributed to the first opening (O1) and the second opening (O2) of the third venting space (VS3), respectively.

[0097]

[0098] A flow guide member (300) may be provided corresponding to each bank of battery cells (110). In a cell assembly (100), a plurality of battery cells (110) may be grouped into bank units. The plurality of battery cells (110) may, for example, consist of one battery cell (110) or two or more battery cells (110) forming a bank unit. A plurality of flow guide members (300) may be provided to correspond to each of these banks.

[0099] When the flow guide member (300) is provided as described above, the venting gas (VG) can be discharged smoothly for each bank, and the backflow of the venting gas (VG) from one bank to another bank can be effectively prevented or suppressed, so that the heat transfer phenomenon between banks can be effectively prevented or suppressed.

[0100]

[0101] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of a bottom frame according to one embodiment of the present invention cut and enlarged.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 6, the flow guide member (300) may be provided in a fin shape. For example, the flow guide member (300) may be provided in a wing shape that has height in the Z-axis direction and has a predetermined width in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis.

[0103] When the flow guide member (300) is provided in a pin shape as described above, the flow of the venting gas (VG) can be clearly partitioned and guided.

[0104]

[0105] Meanwhile, the fluid guide member (300) can be formed integrally with any of the components of the bottom frame (210).

[0106]

[0107] FIG. 7 is a plan view showing an enlarged portion of the interior of a battery pack (10) according to a modified example of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, a battery pack (10) according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0109] A flow guide member (300) of a battery pack (10) according to a modified example of one embodiment of the present invention may be formed concavely toward the first venting space (VS1). At this time, the flow guide member (300) may be formed inclined at a predetermined angle toward the openings (O1, O2) as described above.

[0110] When the flow guide member (300) is configured as described above, when the venting gas (VG) discharged from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) flows into the flow guide member (300), the venting gas (VG) can flow in more smoothly.

[0111]

[0112] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing an enlarged portion of the interior of a battery pack (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 8, a battery pack (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0114] A battery pack (10) according to another embodiment of the present invention may further include a partition member (400). A plurality of flow guide members (300) may be provided, and the partition member (400) may be positioned between any two adjacent flow guide members (300). For example, the partition member (400) may be positioned approximately in the center of the second venting space (VS2) between the first venting space (VS1) and the third venting space (VS3), as shown in FIG. 8.

[0115] The partition member (400) may be configured to block the flow of venting gas (VG). For example, the partition member (400) may be configured in the form of a partition wall to block the venting gas (VG) from one side from flowing into the other side. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the partition member (400) may be configured in the form of a partition wall extending in the Y-axis and Z-axis directions to block the flow of venting gas (VG) in the X-axis direction.

[0116] In this way, when the battery pack (10) further includes a partition member (400), the venting gas (VG) discharged into the second venting space (VS2) can be reliably partitioned and dispersed to both sides by the partition member (400).

[0117]

[0118] The partition member (400) may be positioned at a location corresponding to the central position of the aforementioned first opening (O1) and second opening (O2). For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the first opening (O1) and the second opening (O2) are provided on the -X direction side and the +X direction side of the third venting space (VS3), respectively, and the partition member (400) may be positioned on the center line (M).

[0119] When the partition member (400) is configured as described above, the flow of venting gas (VG) discharged from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) can be uniformly distributed to the first opening (O1) and the second opening (O2) of the third venting space (VS3), respectively.

[0120]

[0121] Again, referring to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 4, the first venting space (VS1) can be extended. For example, the first venting space (VS1) can be extended in a direction parallel to the stacking direction of a plurality of battery cells (110).

[0122] For example, if the stacking direction of a plurality of battery cells (110) is the X-axis direction, the first venting space (VS1) may be formed by extending long in the X-axis direction. The first venting space (VS1) may extend to or beyond the battery cells (110) placed at the outermost sides of the cell assembly (100).

[0123] When the first venting space (VS1) is extended as described above, multiple battery cells (110) can all be accommodated in a single first venting space (VS1).

[0124]

[0125] Meanwhile, in the battery pack (10), a plurality of cell assemblies (100) may be stacked and arranged together, and a first venting space (VS1) may be extended in a direction parallel to the stacking direction of the plurality of cell assemblies (100). In this case, a plurality of cell assemblies (100) may correspond to a single first venting space (VS1).

[0126]

[0127] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a bottom frame (210) of a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the bottom frame (210) of FIG. 9 exploded.

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 9 and 10, the bottom frame (210) may be provided with a routing frame (213). The routing frame (213) may be positioned inside the second venting space (VS2). For example, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the routing frame (213) may be positioned approximately in the center of the second venting space (VS2).

[0129] The routing frame (213) can form a third venting space (VS3). The third venting space (VS3) can be formed on the inner side of the routing frame (213).

[0130] When the bottom frame (210) is configured as described above, a third venting space (VS3) can be easily and reliably formed in the bottom frame (210), and the second venting space (VS2) and the third venting space (VS3) can be reliably separated.

[0131]

[0132] Meanwhile, the routing frame (213) may be provided in a form that is extended in the X-axis direction. In this case, as shown in FIG. 4, the venting gas (VG) to be discharged from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) may be guided in the X-axis direction by striking the routing frame (213) and then flow into the third venting space (VS3) through the openings (O1, O2).

[0133] A single routing frame (213) may be provided corresponding to only one cell assembly (100) or may be provided corresponding to multiple cell assemblies (100). For example, when the routing frame (213) is provided in the form shown in FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10, four cell assemblies (100) may be provided corresponding to one routing frame (213). FIGS. 4, FIGS. 5, FIGS. 7 and FIGS. 8 are illustrated as if one routing frame (213) is provided corresponding to one cell assembly (100) for convenience of explanation.

[0134]

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 9 and 10 below, the bottom frame (210) may further include an inner frame (211) and an outer frame (212).

[0136] The inner frame (211) may be placed on one side of the cell assembly (100). For example, the inner frame (211) may be placed on the lower part of the cell assembly (100).

[0137] The outer frame (212) may be positioned on one side of the inner frame (211). For example, the outer frame (212) may be positioned at the bottom of the inner frame (211). The outer frame (212) may be positioned on the outside of the inner frame (211).

[0138] The routing frame (213) may be positioned between the inner frame (211) and the outer frame (212). For example, the outer frame (212), the routing frame (213), and the inner frame (211) may be positioned sequentially in an upward direction.

[0139] The first venting space (VS1) can be formed between the cell assembly (100) and the inner frame (211). For example, a part of the inner frame (211) may be spaced downward from the cell assembly (100), and the first venting space (VS1) may be formed in the gap that is spaced up and down in this way.

[0140] The second venting space (VS2) can be formed between the inner frame (211) and the outer frame (212). For example, the outer frame (212) may be spaced downward from another part of the inner frame (211), and the second venting space (VS2) may be formed in the gap thus spaced vertically.

[0141] When the bottom frame (210) is configured as described above, the first venting space (VS1), the second venting space (VS2), and the third venting space (VS3) can be easily and reliably formed in the bottom frame (210). Additionally, the rigidity of the bottom frame (210) is increased, thereby improving the structural stability of the battery pack (10).

[0142]

[0143] Meanwhile, the routing frame (213) may have an open bottom and an outer frame (212) may be positioned at the bottom of the routing frame (213) to form a third venting space (VS3) between the routing frame (213) and the outer frame (212).

[0144]

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 6, 9 and 10, the fluid guide member (300) may be configured to support the inner frame (211) and the outer frame (212).

[0146] The fluid guide member (300) may be positioned between the inner frame (211) and the outer frame (212). The fluid guide member (300) may be configured to extend toward each of the inner frame (211) and the outer frame (212).

[0147] The fluid guide member (300) can be configured to support, for example, the inner frame (211) in an upward direction and the outer frame (212) in a downward direction.

[0148] When the fluid guide member (300) is configured in this way, the rigidity of the bottom frame (210) can be strengthened, and the structural stability of the battery pack (10) can be increased.

[0149]

[0150] Referring to FIGS. 4, 9 and 10, the flow guide member (300) may be spaced apart from the routing frame (213).

[0151] For example, the flow guide member (300) may be spaced apart from the routing frame (213) in a direction toward the first venting space (VS1).

[0152] When the flow guide member (300) is arranged in this manner, the venting gas (VG) discharged from the first venting space (VS1) to the second venting space (VS2) can be prevented or suppressed from being blocked by the routing frame (213) after passing through the flow guide member (300), thereby allowing the flow of the venting gas (VG) to be formed more smoothly.

[0153]

[0154] Referring again to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3, the bottom frame (210) may be positioned at the bottom of the cell assembly (100). In this case, a first venting space (VS1) may be provided at the bottom of the cell assembly (100) so that the venting gas (VG) may be discharged in a downward direction, and the battery pack (10) may be configured with a bottom venting structure.

[0155] 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.

[0156]

[0157] Again, referring to FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 4, the battery pack (10) according to the present invention may further include a venting device (500).

[0158] The venting device (500) can connect the third venting space (VS3) and the outside of the battery pack (10). The venting device (500) can be configured so that the venting gas (VG) flowing in the third venting space (VS3) can be discharged to the outside.

[0159] The venting device (500) can be placed inside the third venting space (VS3).

[0160] The venting device (500) may be in the form of a simple hole that penetrates at least a portion of the bottom frame (210). 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 third venting space (VS3).

[0161] In this way, when the battery pack (10) further includes a venting device (500), there is an advantage that the venting gas (VG) flowing in the third venting space (VS3) can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery pack (10).

[0162]

[0163] Meanwhile, the venting device (500) may be provided on the outer frame (212) in the approximately central part of the inner side of the routing frame (213).

[0164]

[0165] Meanwhile, the inner frame (211) may be provided with a first bottom portion (211a), a second bottom portion (211b), and a side plate portion (211c).

[0166] A first venting space (VS1) may be formed in the first bottom portion (211a). The first bottom portion (211a) may be part of an inner frame (211) spaced downward from the cell assembly (100) so that the first venting space (VS1) is formed. The first bottom portion (211a) may be provided in a concave shape toward the cell assembly (100). The first bottom portion (211a) may be supported upward by an outer frame (212).

[0167] A second venting space (VS2) may be formed in the second bottom portion (211b). The second bottom portion (211b) may be another part of the inner frame (211) spaced upward from the outer frame (212) so as to form the second venting space (VS2). The second bottom portion (211b) may be provided in a convex shape toward the cell assembly (100). The second bottom portion (211b) may support the cell assembly (100) upward. The second bottom portion (211b) may be supported upward by the routing frame (213).

[0168] The side plate (211c) may be configured to connect the first bottom part (211a) and the second bottom part (211b). The first bottom part (211a) and the second bottom part (211b) may be positioned at different heights. For example, with respect to the Z-axis direction, the first bottom part (211a) may be positioned lower than the second bottom part (211b). The side plate (211c) may be configured to connect the first bottom part (211a) and the second bottom part (211b) positioned at different heights in this manner. The side plate (211c) may be provided with at least one connecting hole (H) that connects the first venting space (VS1) and the second venting space (VS2) to each other.

[0169] Meanwhile, the bottom frame (210) may further be provided with a cover frame (214). The cover frame (214) may cover one or both ends of the bottom frame (210). For example, the cover frame (214) may cover the X-direction side end of the second bottom portion (211b).

[0170]

[0171] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a cell assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a vent cover disassembled from a cell assembly of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0172] Meanwhile, a battery pack (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a module case (120) and a vent cover (130), as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] The vent cover (130) can cover the venting hole (VH). The vent cover (130) can 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 be provided, for example, in a form that is easy to break by notching or slit-processing in the form of a dotted line. The opening / closing part (131) may be provided corresponding to each battery cell (110) or each bank, which is a unit grouping the battery cells (110). By means of the vent cover (130), the venting gas (VG) passing through the venting hole (VH) from the cell assembly (100) can be effectively prevented or suppressed from flowing back into the cell assembly (100) through the venting hole (VH).

[0176] The cell assembly (100) may have at least one partition member (140). The partition member (140) may be disposed on the side of the battery cell (110). The partition member (140) may be provided as one or more of a cooling member capable of cooling the battery cell, or a pad member capable of blocking heat or flame.

[0177]

[0178] Meanwhile, referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery pack (10) according to the present invention may further include a side wall frame (220), a partition frame (230), and a pack lid (240). The side wall frame (220) surrounds the bottom frame (210) and can form a receiving space capable of accommodating at least one cell assembly (100) together with the bottom frame (210). The partition frame (230) can partition the receiving space, and a plurality of cell assemblies (100) can be correspondingly accommodated in each partitioned receiving space. The pack lid (240) 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), the side wall frame (220), the partition frame (230), and the pack lid (240) may be collectively referred to as a pack case (200).

[0179]

[0180] 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.

[0181]

[0182] In the above description, examples of a battery pack (10) according to the present invention have been explained. 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.

[0183]

[0184] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 13 below, a battery pack (10) according to the present invention can be applied to a vehicle (V), such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (V) according to the present invention may include a battery pack (10) according to the present invention. The battery pack (10) may be installed in a 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.

[0186] 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).

[0187]

[0188] 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.

[0189] 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.

[0190]

[0191] [Explanation of the symbol]

[0192] 10: Battery pack

[0193] 100 : Cell Assembly

[0194] 110: Battery cell

[0195] 120 : Modular case

[0196] 121 : Low

[0197] 130 : Vent cover

[0198] 131 : Opening / closing part

[0199] 140 : Bulkhead member

[0200] 200 : Pack case

[0201] 210 : Bottom frame

[0202] 211 : Inner Frame

[0203] 211a : First bottom part

[0204] 211b : Second bottom part

[0205] 211c : Side panel

[0206] 212 : Outer Frame

[0207] 213: Routing Frame

[0208] 214 : Cover Frame

[0209] 220 : Sidewall frame

[0210] 230 : Partition Frame

[0211] 240: Pack Lead

[0212] 300 : Flow guide member

[0213] 400 : Partition member

[0214] 500 : Venting device

[0215] H: Chimney hole

[0216] O1 : First opening

[0217] O2: Second opening

[0218] VG: Venting gas

[0219] VH : Venting hole

[0220] VS1: 1st venting space

[0221] VS2 : Second venting space

[0222] VS3 : 3rd venting space

[0223] V : Car

Claims

1. A cell assembly having a plurality of battery cells; A first venting space exposed to the cell assembly, a second venting space communicating with the first venting space, and a third venting space communicating with the second venting space through at least one opening are provided, and a bottom frame disposed on one side of the cell assembly; A battery pack comprising one or more flow guide members disposed in the second venting space and configured to guide the flow direction of the venting gas discharged into the second venting space toward the opening.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned flow guide member is, A battery pack disposed between the first venting space and the third venting space among the second venting spaces.

3. In Paragraph 1, At least one of the above-mentioned flow guide members is, A battery pack formed at an angle toward the above-mentioned opening.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned flow guide member is, A battery pack formed concavely toward the first venting space.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above opening is, It includes a first opening formed at one end of the third venting space and a second opening formed at the other end, and The above-mentioned flow guide member is, A battery pack symmetrically provided toward the first opening and the second opening.

6. In Paragraph 1, In the cell assembly above, A plurality of the above battery cells are grouped into banks, and The above-mentioned flow guide member is, Battery packs provided corresponding to each bank.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned flow guide member is, Battery pack provided in a pin shape.

8. In Paragraph 1, A battery pack further comprising a partition member disposed between any two adjacent flow guide members and configured to block the flow of venting gas.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above opening is, It includes a first opening formed at one end of the third venting space and a second opening formed at the other end, and The above partition member is, A battery pack positioned at a location corresponding to the central position of the first opening and the second opening.

10. In Paragraph 1, In the cell assembly above, A plurality of the above battery cells are stacked and arranged together, The above-mentioned first venting space is, A battery pack that extends in a direction parallel to the stacking direction of a plurality of the battery cells.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above bottom frame is, A battery pack having a routing frame disposed inside the second venting space and forming the third venting space.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above bottom frame is, An inner frame disposed on one side of the cell assembly; and Further comprising an outer frame disposed on one side of the inner frame, and The above routing frame is, It is positioned between the inner frame and the outer frame, The above-mentioned first venting space is, Formed between the cell assembly and the inner frame, The above second venting space is, A battery pack formed between the inner frame and the outer frame.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above-mentioned flow guide member is, A battery pack configured to support the inner frame and the outer frame.

14. In Paragraph 11, The above-mentioned flow guide member is, A battery pack positioned spaced apart from the upper routing frame.

15. In Paragraph 1, The above bottom frame is, A battery pack positioned at the bottom of the cell assembly.

16. In Paragraph 1, A battery pack further comprising a venting device capable of communicating the third venting space and the outside of the battery pack with each other.

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

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