Battery assembly, and battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

A battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a plurality of battery cells that form multiple cell units; and a housing including a plurality of unit frames configured to accommodate the cell units, respectively.

Description

Battery assembly, battery pack including the same, and automobile

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

[0002] The present application is a priority application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0010618 filed on January 23, 2025 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0065155 filed on May 20, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the specifications and drawings of said applications are incorporated into the present 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. When high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery assembly or battery pack. Additionally, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery assembly or battery pack.

[0005] When configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common practice to first construct a battery assembly containing at least one battery cell, and then use this at least one battery assembly 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.

[0006] Meanwhile, when multiple battery assemblies are included within a battery pack as described above, the system may be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between the assemblies. For instance, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery assembly, this runaway can propagate to other battery assemblies. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery assemblies is not properly suppressed, an event originating in a specific battery assembly can trigger a chain reaction across multiple assemblies, potentially leading to serious problems such as explosions or fires.

[0007] In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a single battery assembly, a chain reaction of thermal runaway may occur due to sequential heat transfer between battery cells. Furthermore, since battery cells are housed in a single battery assembly without compartment separation, heat transfer such as convection and radiation occurs between the cells, and heat accumulates internally, which can accelerate the propagation of thermal runaway.

[0008] In conventional battery assemblies, the module case is configured as a U-frame or monoframe to enclose the battery cell stack from the outside. Additionally, barrier members are interposed between the battery cells to delay heat transfer between them. However, such conventional battery assembly structures lack a structure capable of compartmentalizing the battery cell stack, making them insufficient to resolve the aforementioned problems.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need to develop a structure capable of suppressing or preventing thermal runaway among battery cells by suppressing heat transfer, such as heat conduction, convection, and radiation, between the battery cell where the event occurred and other battery cells when thermal runaway occurs in a battery assembly.

[0010] Accordingly, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack and an automobile capable of preventing or suppressing the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells by minimizing the thermal energy received by adjacent battery cells when thermal runaway occurs in a battery assembly.

[0011] However, the 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] To solve the above problem, the present invention provides a battery assembly characterized by comprising a housing having a plurality of battery cells forming a plurality of cell units and a plurality of unit frames configured to accommodate each of the cell units.

[0013] The above housing may have a plurality of venting holes formed on one side, configured to correspond to each of the cell units.

[0014] The above unit frame may have an opening formed on one side to provide a receiving space in which the cell unit can be accommodated.

[0015] The above unit frame may have a horizontal portion configured to accommodate the cell unit, and a first vertical portion and a second vertical portion configured to protrude outward in a vertical direction from both ends of the horizontal portion.

[0016] A battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a barrier member interposed between the cell unit and at least one of the first vertical portion and the second vertical portion.

[0017] The first vertical section and the second vertical section may each be provided with a first bending section and a second bending section configured to be bent outward.

[0018] The above horizontal portion may have a first protrusion and a second protrusion configured to protrude outward in a horizontal direction from both ends.

[0019] The plurality of unit frames are arranged in the stacking direction of the battery cells and can be configured to support each other.

[0020] Among the plurality of unit frames mentioned above, adjacent unit frames may be in contact with each other to form a hollow space between them.

[0021] The above housing may have an upper frame coupled to the unit frame and configured to cover the plurality of cell units from the top.

[0022] The upper frame may have an insertion groove on its inner surface configured to allow the upper portion of the unit frame to be inserted.

[0023] The above housing may have an end frame configured to be coupled to the plurality of unit frames and to cover both sides in the front and rear directions of the plurality of cell units.

[0024] In addition, the present invention provides a battery pack characterized by including a battery assembly according to the present invention.

[0025] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery assembly according to the present invention.

[0026] According to one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of cell units can be structurally partitioned by unit frames. This prevents high-temperature gases or flames generated as each cell unit is transferred from crossing the unit frames and directly affecting other cell units.

[0027] Accordingly, according to the above aspect of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs in any cell unit, thermal damage to other cell units can be suppressed, so that heat transfer on a per-cell unit basis within the battery assembly can be delayed or prevented. As a result, the safety and reliability of the battery assembly can be guaranteed.

[0028] In particular, according to one aspect of the present invention, by blocking direct and indirect heat transfer between cell units by means of a unit frame, heat transfer to adjacent cell units can be delayed, thereby preventing thermal runaway.

[0029] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, an air layer is formed between each unit frame, which provides a high thermal insulation effect and also enables the response to swelling when the battery cell expands due to the heat generation reaction of the battery cell.

[0030] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, events such as fire or explosion caused by thermal runaway phenomena in a battery pack comprising a plurality of battery assemblies or a device equipped with them can be prevented or delayed.

[0031] In addition to the above, the present invention may have various other effects, which are described in each embodiment, or effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art, etc., will be omitted.

[0032] 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.

[0033] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 may be a drawing showing the cross-section I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0036] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of another part of a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a unit frame included in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the housing components of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention disassembled.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view in which some components of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention are disassembled.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] 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, but 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.

[0045] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0046] In addition, the present invention includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially identical or similar configurations are omitted, and the focus is on the differences.

[0047] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used in the present invention, these terms are used merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the position of the object or the position of the observer, as is obvious to those skilled in the art of the present invention.

[0048]

[0049] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. In addition, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 3 may be a drawing showing the cross-section along I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0050] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (100) and a housing (200).

[0051] The above battery cells (100) may include a plurality of units. A plurality of battery cells (100) may be provided by stacking them in one direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be stacked along the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0052] The present invention is not limited by the specific type or shape of such battery cell (100), and various battery cells (100) known at the time of filing the present invention may be employed. In this embodiment, a pouch-type secondary battery with high energy density and easy stacking is used as shown in the drawing, but it is understood that cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries may be applied as battery cells (100).

[0053] Multiple battery cells (100) may be configured to form multiple cell units (U). That is, one cell unit (U) may include multiple battery cells (100). A cell unit (U) may be configured to group multiple battery cells (100). For example, one cell unit (U) may consist of four battery cells (100).

[0054] The cell units (U) may be provided in 2, 4, 8, etc. However, the number of cell units (U) is not limited to this and may vary depending on the capacity of the battery assembly (10), module dimensions, layout of the battery pack, etc.

[0055] The above housing (200) may be configured to accommodate a battery cell (100). Specifically, the housing (200) may have an internal space formed therein and may be configured to accommodate a battery cell (100) in the internal space. The housing (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of cell units (U) at once.

[0056] This housing (200) may be made of a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the housed battery cell (100).

[0057] The above housing (200) may be provided with a unit frame (210). The unit frame (210) may be configured to accommodate each cell unit (U). That is, the unit frame (210) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of cell units (U) individually. The unit frame (210) may be configured to group a plurality of battery cells (100).

[0058] A plurality of unit frames (210) may be provided. The unit frames (210) may be provided in a number corresponding to the number of cell units (U). A plurality of unit frames (210) may be arranged in a line along the stacking direction of the battery cell (100) or cell unit (U). These plurality of unit frames (210) may be arranged along the stacking direction of the cell unit (U) to cover one side of a plurality of cell units (U).

[0059] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of cell units (U) can be structurally partitioned by unit frames (210). This prevents high-temperature gas or flames generated as each cell unit (U) is transferred from crossing the unit frames (210) and directly affecting other cell units (U).

[0060] That is, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, by applying a plurality of unit frames (210) and individually accommodating cell units (U) in the unit frames (210), when one battery cell (100) ignites, heat transfer occurs directly only within the cell unit (U) containing the battery cell (100), and the remaining battery cells (100) contained in the cell units (U) can be protected by the unit frame (210) structure.

[0061] Thus, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, even if a thermal event occurs in any cell unit (U), thermal damage to other cell units (U) can be suppressed, so that heat transfer between cell units (U) within the battery assembly (10) can be delayed or prevented. Thus, the safety and reliability of the battery assembly (10) can be guaranteed.

[0062] In particular, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, by blocking direct and indirect heat transfer by convection and / or radiation between cell units (U) by the unit frame (210), heat transfer to adjacent cell units (U) can be delayed, thereby preventing thermal runaway.

[0063]

[0064] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the battery assembly (10) of the present invention may further include a busbar frame assembly (400). The busbar frame assembly (400) may be provided inside the housing (200) and configured to cover at least one side of a plurality of battery cells (100). In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the busbar frame assembly (400) may be coupled to the front and rear of a plurality of battery cells (100). The busbar frame assembly (400) may be configured to cover a plurality of cell units (U) at once.

[0065] The busbar frame assembly (400) may include a busbar frame (410) and a plurality of busbars (420). The busbar frame (410) may be configured to be coupled to the front and rear of approximately a plurality of battery cells (100). The busbar frame (410) may have slits that allow the electrode leads (110) of the battery cells (100) to be drawn out in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction. Additionally, the busbar frame (410) may be formed of a material having electrical insulation properties, such as plastic, and configured to allow busbars (420) to be attached to its outer surface.

[0066] Multiple busbars (420) are made of a metal material such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc., and can be provided in the form of rods as a means for connecting battery cells (100) in series and / or in parallel. The electrode leads of the battery cells (100) pass through a slit in the busbar frame (410) and are drawn out to the outside of the busbar frame (410), and the drawn-out portion can be attached to the surface of the busbar (420) by means such as welding.

[0067]

[0068] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 4, a venting hole (H) may be formed in the housing (200). The venting hole (H) may be provided in multiple numbers and may be arranged at regular intervals from each other in the horizontal direction (X-axis, Y-axis direction). The venting hole (H) may be provided to discharge the venting gas generated in the battery cell (100) to the outside of the housing (200).

[0070] For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the venting hole (H) may be formed on the upper surface of the housing (200) (the upper frame (220) to be described later). Thus, directional venting of the battery assembly (10) upward through the venting hole (H) may be possible.

[0071] High-temperature gases, such as venting gas or flames generated in the battery cells (100), have a strong tendency to rise and may head toward the empty space provided at the top of the battery cells (100). At this time, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, by providing a venting hole (H) at the top of the battery cell (100), the heat, such as venting gas or flames, can be minimized from heading toward other battery cells (100).

[0072] Meanwhile, the venting holes (H) can be configured to correspond to each cell unit (U). Each of the multiple venting holes (H) can be separated or partitioned by a unit frame (210). The unit frame (210) can be configured to open toward the venting holes (H).

[0073] Accordingly, since each cell unit (U) is connected to a venting hole (H), venting gas or flames generated by a thermal event occurring in any cell unit (U) can be discharged to the outside of the housing (200) through the corresponding venting hole (H).

[0074] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, not only are a plurality of cell units (U) but also venting holes (H) partitioned or separated, so that gas or flames generated in one cell unit (U) may pass to an adjacent cell unit (U), thereby preventing heat transfer. As a result, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells (100) can be prevented or delayed. Accordingly, the safety and reliability of the battery assembly (10) can be guaranteed.

[0075] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, high-temperature gas or flames generated in the battery cell (100) within the battery assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged to the outside of the battery assembly (10) through the venting hole (H). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent or delay the occurrence of thermal runaway propagation caused by an increase in the internal pressure of the battery assembly (10).

[0076] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, since each cell unit (U) is in communication only with the venting hole (H) corresponding to each cell unit (U), gas or flame generated in any cell unit (U) can be discharged to the outside of the housing (200) only through the venting hole (H). As a result, thermal runaway propagation between battery cells (100) can be prevented more effectively.

[0077]

[0078] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of another part of a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a unit frame included in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] The structure of the unit frame (210) is described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. The unit frame (210) may have a receiving space (S) in which a cell unit (U) can be received. Additionally, the unit frame (210) may have an opening formed on one side. For example, the opening may be formed on the upper side of the unit frame (210). Accordingly, the cell unit (U) can be inserted into the receiving space (S) through the opening on the upper side of the unit frame (210).

[0080] The unit frame (210) may be configured to cover some of the six sides of the cell unit (U). For example, the unit frame (210) may be configured to cover the left side, right side, and bottom side of a single cell unit (U). The unit frame (210) may be configured to support the cell unit (U) on both the left and right sides of the cell unit (U).

[0081] More specifically, referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the unit frame (210) may have a horizontal section (211), a first vertical section (212), and a second vertical section (213).

[0082] The horizontal portion (211) may be configured to cover the lower surface of the cell unit (U). The horizontal portion (211) may be provided on the side opposite to the opening. The horizontal portion (211) may be configured to allow the cell unit (U) to be seated. The horizontal portion (211) may be configured in the form of a plate extending in a horizontal direction. The horizontal portion (211) may have a flat inner surface.

[0083] The first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may be configured to protrude outward in a vertical direction from both ends of the horizontal section (211). The first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may be configured in the form of plates erected in a vertical direction. The first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may be provided parallel to each other. The angle between the vertical section (320) and the horizontal section (211) may be approximately 90 degrees.

[0084] The first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may be configured to cover the left and right sides of the cell unit (U). The first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may be provided on both sides in the left and right directions of the cell unit (U). The first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may be provided between adjacent cell units (U). That is, the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may be configured to partition and separate a plurality of cell units (U).

[0085] Accordingly, the receiving space (S) can be formed by one horizontal section (211), a first vertical section (212), and a second vertical section (213).

[0086] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the cell unit (U) is configured to be at least partially surrounded by the first vertical section (212), the second vertical section (213), and the horizontal section (211), heat propagation between cell units (U) can be suppressed.

[0087] Furthermore, the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may be configured to fix the cell unit (U) from both sides. According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) can suppress swelling of the battery cell (100) by compressing the cell unit (U) from both sides when swelling of the battery cell (100) occurs. Accordingly, the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) can contribute to the structural rigidity of the battery cells (100).

[0088]

[0089] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 5, a battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a barrier member (300). The barrier member (300) may be provided inside a unit frame (210). The barrier member (300) may be interposed between a cell unit (U) and a unit frame (210). More specifically, the barrier member (300) may be interposed between a cell unit (U) and at least one of a first vertical section (212) and a second vertical section (213).

[0090] That is, the barrier member (300) may be provided on at least one of the two sides of the cell unit (U). For example, the barrier member (300) may be provided on both sides of the cell unit (U).

[0091] These barrier members (300) may be made of a material with excellent heat resistance and / or fire resistance. For example, the barrier members (300) may be made of mica. This allows the structure to be configured so that it does not deform even under high heat and high pressure and maintains an airtight structure.

[0092] Additionally, the barrier member (300) may be made of a compressible material. For example, the barrier member (300) may be made of any one of the following materials: silicone, aerogel, polyurethane, etc. Accordingly, the barrier member (300) may be configured to be in complete contact with an adjacent battery cell (100).

[0093] Additionally, the barrier member (300) may be made of a material having electrical insulation properties. This ensures electrical insulation between the battery cells (100).

[0094] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the barrier member (300) can stably support each cell unit (U) inside the unit frame (210). Accordingly, the arrangement state of the battery cells (100) within the cell unit (U) can be stably maintained, and swelling of the battery cells (100) can also be absorbed.

[0095]

[0096] Furthermore, referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may each have a first bending section (212a) and a second bending section (213a). The first bending section (212a) and the second bending section (213a) may each be configured to be bent outward from the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213). Accordingly, the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) may be configured in an L-shape.

[0097] The horizontal portion (211) may be provided with a first protrusion (211a) and a second protrusion (211b). The first protrusion (211a) and the second protrusion (211b) may be configured to protrude outward in a horizontal direction from both ends of the horizontal portion (211). At this time, the lengths of the first protrusion (211a) and the second protrusion (211b) may be configured to correspond approximately to the lengths of the first bend portion (212a) and the second bend portion (213a).

[0098] Meanwhile, a plurality of unit frames (210) are arranged in the stacking direction of the battery cells (100) and can be configured to support each other. Adjacent unit frames (210) can be configured to face each other. Adjacent unit frames (210) can be stacked in contact with each other.

[0099] At this time, the first vertical portion (212) and the second vertical portion (213) of each unit frame (210) may be configured to be in contact with the second vertical portion (213) and the first vertical portion (212) of an adjacent unit frame (210). Additionally, the first protrusion (211a) and the second protrusion (211b) of each unit frame (210) may be configured to be in contact with the second protrusion (211b) and the first protrusion (211a) of an adjacent unit frame (210). That is, a plurality of unit frames (210) may be configured to be mutually supportive by the structure of the unit frame (210) shown in FIG. 5.

[0100] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of unit frames (210) are supported by each other to stably accommodate a plurality of cell units (U). By doing so, the structural stability of the battery assembly (10) can be secured.

[0101] Additionally, referring to FIG. 5, adjacent unit frames (210) among a plurality of unit frames (210) may be in contact with each other to form a hollow space between them. That is, an air layer may be formed between adjacent unit frames (210).

[0102] As the unit frame (210) is provided with a first bend (212a), a second bend (213a), a first protrusion (211a), and a second protrusion (211b), the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) can be spaced apart from each other. That is, the first bend (212a) of one unit frame (210) and the second bend (213a) of another unit frame (210) are in contact with each other, so that a hollow can be formed between the first vertical section and the second vertical section.

[0103] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of cell units (U) can be stacked and accommodated by the unit frame (210) structure, while also being configured to be spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, an air layer is formed between each unit frame (210), resulting in a high thermal insulation effect, and it can also respond to swelling when the battery cell (100) expands due to the heat generation reaction of the battery cell (100).

[0104]

[0105] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of a cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] Meanwhile, each unit frame (210) may be configured such that one component supports another component in an outward direction. For example, the end of the first protrusion (211a) of one unit frame (210) and the end of the second protrusion (211b) of another unit frame (210) may be configured to be mutually inserted and connected. That is, as in the embodiment illustrated in part A of FIG. 7, a male and female coupling structure may be provided on the first protrusion (211a) and the second protrusion (211b). Accordingly, adjacent unit frames (210) can be connected to each other.

[0107] Specifically, referring to part A of FIG. 7, one of the first protrusion (211a) and the second protrusion (211b) may be configured to rest on another component. That is, when viewing the cross-section of the housing (200) from the side, the end of the first protrusion (211a) and the end of the second protrusion (211b) may be configured to be staggered perpendicular to each other.

[0108] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the mechanical bonding force or assembly between adjacent unit frames (210) can be further improved.

[0109] Furthermore, in the case of such a unit frame (210) structure, a weld can be formed along the male-female coupling structure of the first protrusion (211a) and the second protrusion (211b). According to this configuration of the present invention, since one of the components of the unit frame (210) supports the remaining components in an upward direction (outward direction), the contact state between the unit frames (210) can be stably maintained during the welding process. Thus, weldability can be improved.

[0110] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to prevent damage to the battery cells (100) housed inside the unit frame (210) during the welding process.

[0111] Meanwhile, unlike the embodiment illustrated in the drawing, such a support configuration between adjacent unit frames (210) can be formed not only on the first protrusion (211a) and the second protrusion (211b) but also on the first bend (212a) and the second bend (213a).

[0112]

[0113] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the housing components of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention disassembled.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 8, the housing (200) may be provided with an upper frame (220). The upper frame (220) may be configured to form the upper surface of the housing (200). The upper frame (220) may be configured to cover a plurality of cell units (U) from the top. The upper frame (220) may be configured to cover all of the plurality of cell units (U).

[0115] The upper frame (220) can be connected to the unit frame (210). After a plurality of unit frames (210) are stacked, the upper frame (220) can be connected to the upper portion of the plurality of unit frames (210). For example, the upper frame (220) and the plurality of unit frames (210) can be connected by bolting. In this case, the bolt is fastened from the outside, and a countersunk bolt may be used.

[0116] Additionally, the housing (200) may be provided with an end frame (230). The end frame (230) may be configured to cover both sides in the front and rear directions of a plurality of battery cells (100). The end frame (230) may be configured to cover all of a plurality of cell units (U). The end frame (230) may be configured to cover the open front and rear of the unit frame (210). The end frame (230) may be coupled to an upper frame (220) and a plurality of unit frames (210).

[0117] Meanwhile, although not shown for convenience, the end frame (230) may, for example, have an insulating material on the inside and a metal material on the outside. Additionally, the end frame (230) may have a hole or slit partially provided for the exposure of parts that need to be exposed to the outside, such as the positive terminal and negative terminal or connector of the battery assembly (10).

[0118] Meanwhile, when multiple unit frames (210) are stacked, the upper portions of adjacent unit frames (210) (e.g., the first bent portion (212a) and the second bent portion (213a)) can be maintained in a positioned state as the upper frame (220) is joined.

[0119] Additionally, the lower portions of adjacent unit frames (210) (e.g., the first protrusion (211a) and the second protrusion (211b)) can be maintained in their position by their own weight without a separate fixing structure.

[0120] Alternatively, the arrangement of the multiple unit frames (210) can be maintained as the end frame (230) is fastened to the multiple unit frames (210). The end frame (230) can be attached to both ends of the multiple unit frames (210) while the multiple unit frames (210) are arranged in one direction. The end frame (230) can be welded to the unit frame (210) positioned at the outermost among the multiple unit frames (210).

[0121] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the end frame (230) can fix both ends of the unit frame (210) to improve the fixing force of the plurality of unit frames (210). As a result, the mechanical stability of the housing (200) is secured, and the partition separation effect between cell units (U) can be maintained more stably.

[0122]

[0123] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view in which some components of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention are disassembled.

[0124] When the upper frame (220) is coupled to the unit frame (210), the unit frame (210) can be configured to be in contact with the upper frame (220).

[0125] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the gap between the unit frame (210) and the upper frame (220) is minimized, so the space for venting gas to flow is reduced, thereby preventing thermal runaway propagation to adjacent battery cells (100).

[0126] In particular, as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the first bend portion (212a) and the second bend portion (213a) can be configured to be in contact with the upper frame (220). That is, the first bend portion (212a) and the second bend portion (213a) can be in surface contact with the upper frame (220).

[0127] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, when the upper frame (220) is coupled to the unit frame (210), the lower surface of the upper frame (220) and the upper part of the unit frame (210) can naturally come into close contact with each other. As a result, the receiving space (S) is further sealed, and the movement of venting gas or flames beyond the unit frame (210) can be further suppressed.

[0128] Furthermore, according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the unit frame (210) can be configured to be inserted into the upper frame (220). That is, the unit frame (210) stacked in one direction can be configured so that a portion of it is inserted into the inner surface of the upper frame (220).

[0129] Specifically, the upper frame (220) may have an insertion groove (G) on its inner surface. The insertion groove (G) may be configured such that the inner surface of the upper frame (220) is recessed inward. The insertion groove (G) may be configured so that the upper portion of the unit frame (210) is inserted therein. For example, a first bent portion (212a) of one unit frame (210) and a second bent portion (213a) of another unit frame (210) may be inserted into one insertion groove (G).

[0130] Accordingly, the first bent portion (212a) and the second bent portion (213a) of the unit frame (210) can be fitted in close contact with the insertion groove (G) without gaps.

[0131] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, since the first bend portion (212a) and the second bend portion (213a) can be inserted into the insertion groove (G) and supported from both sides, the fixing force between the unit frame (210) and the upper frame (220) can be further improved.

[0132] In addition, the sealing force between the first bend portion (212a) and the second bend portion (213a) of the unit frame (210) and the insertion groove (G) of the upper frame (220) can be stably secured. Therefore, according to the above embodiment, the space between the plurality of cell units (U) is more clearly partitioned, and the performance of preventing heat propagation between cell units (U) can be further improved.

[0133] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the possibility of heat being transferred to other cell units (U) can be reduced by the possibility that high-temperature, high-pressure venting gas or flames push out the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213), or by the first vertical section (212) and the second vertical section (213) bending and deforming due to the internal pressure of the venting gas. Accordingly, when thermal runaway propagation occurs in the battery assembly (10), thermal runaway propagation between cell units (U) can be effectively prevented or delayed.

[0134]

[0135] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a battery pack including a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 10, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery assemblies (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention as described above. The battery pack (1) according to the present invention may further include a pack case (2) for accommodating components such as a Battery Management System (BMS) for integrated control of charging and discharging of one or more battery assemblies (10), a current sensor, a fuse, etc., as described above.

[0137]

[0138] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 11, a vehicle (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1) or battery assemblies (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (3) according to the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle (3) includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle (3) may operate by receiving power from the battery pack (1) to the battery assembly (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0140]

[0141] Although the present invention has been described above by limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs.

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells forming multiple cell units and A battery assembly characterized by including a housing having a plurality of unit frames configured to accommodate each of the above cell units.

2. In Paragraph 1, A battery assembly characterized in that the housing has a plurality of venting holes formed on one side, each corresponding to each of the cell units.

3. In Paragraph 1, A battery assembly characterized in that the unit frame has an opening formed on one side to accommodate a receiving space in which the cell unit can be received.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above unit frame is A horizontal section configured to allow the above cell unit to be seated, A battery assembly characterized by having a first vertical section and a second vertical section configured to protrude outward in a vertical direction from both ends of the horizontal section.

5. In Paragraph 4, A battery assembly characterized by further including a barrier member interposed between the cell unit and at least one of the first vertical section and the second vertical section.

6. In Paragraph 4, The first vertical section and the second vertical section are each A battery assembly characterized by having a first bending portion and a second bending portion configured to be bent outward.

7. In Paragraph 4, The above horizontal part A battery assembly characterized by having a first protrusion and a second protrusion configured to protrude horizontally outward from both ends.

8. In Paragraph 1, A battery assembly characterized in that the plurality of unit frames are arranged in the stacking direction of the battery cells and configured to support each other.

9. In Paragraph 1, A battery assembly characterized in that adjacent unit frames among the plurality of unit frames are in contact with each other, forming a hollow space between them.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above housing is A battery assembly characterized by having an upper frame coupled to the unit frame and configured to cover the plurality of cell units from the top.

11. In Paragraph 10, The upper frame above is A battery assembly characterized by having an insertion groove configured to allow the upper portion of the unit frame to be inserted into the inner surface.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above housing is A battery assembly characterized by having an end frame coupled to the plurality of unit frames and configured to cover both sides in the front and rear directions of the plurality of cell units.

13. A battery pack comprising a battery assembly according to any one of paragraphs 1 through 12.

14. An automobile comprising a battery assembly according to any one of paragraphs 1 through 12.

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