Battery pack

Abstract

A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a base plate; a plurality of battery cells disposed on the base plate and stacked along a first direction, each battery cell extending along a second direction; separators separating the plurality of battery cells, each separator extending along the second direction and having a top recess formed on the top surface thereof; a top plate disposed on the plurality of battery cells and the separators; top ribs, each protruding downward from the top plate and received in the corresponding top recess; and a pack cover covering the top plate.

Description

battery pack

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

[0002] This application is a priority application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0013337 filed on February 3, 2025 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0109822 filed on August 8, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said applications are incorporated into this application by reference.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0012] Therefore, a structure is required that can suppress the occurrence of thermal events and block the propagation of thermal events.

[0013] Accordingly, the present invention is devised to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a battery pack capable of suppressing the occurrence of thermal events and blocking the propagation of thermal events, and a vehicle including the same.

[0014] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a structure that can easily discharge venting gas.

[0015] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a structure capable of suppressing deformation of the battery unit due to heat.

[0016] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a structure capable of suppressing deformation of the battery unit even if swelling occurs from the battery cell.

[0017] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a structure capable of improving the electrical safety of a battery pack.

[0018] Another objective of the present invention may be to provide a structure capable of improving the thermal safety of a battery pack.

[0019] However, 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.

[0020] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose may include: a base plate; a plurality of battery cells disposed on the base plate and stacked along a first direction, each of which is a plurality of battery cells extending along a second direction; a separator that separates the plurality of battery cells, extends along the second direction, and includes a top groove formed on its upper surface; a top plate disposed on the plurality of battery cells and the separator; a top rib protruding downward from the top plate and received in the top groove; and a pack cover that covers the top plate.

[0021] In addition, the top groove and the top rib may extend along the second direction.

[0022] In addition, the top plate and the top rib can be formed integrally.

[0023] Additionally, the battery pack may further include an upper fastening member that penetrates the top plate and the top rib and is fastened to the separator.

[0024] In addition, the upper fastening members are provided in plurality, and the plurality of upper fastening members can be arranged along the second direction.

[0025] In addition, the top ribs are provided in plurality, and the plurality of top ribs can be arranged along the first direction.

[0026] In addition, the top plate may have a plurality of venting holes disposed on top of the plurality of battery cells.

[0027] Additionally, the battery pack may further include a bottom plate disposed between the plurality of battery cells and the base plate; and a lower fastening member that penetrates the bottom plate and is fastened to the separator.

[0028] In addition, the lower fastening members are provided in plurality, and the plurality of lower fastening members can be arranged along the second direction.

[0029] Additionally, the battery pack further includes a bottom rib protruding upward from the bottom plate, and the separator may further include a bottom groove formed on the lower surface and accommodating the bottom rib.

[0030] In addition, the lower fastening member can penetrate the bottom rib.

[0031] Additionally, the bottom groove and the bottom rib may extend along the second direction.

[0032] In addition, the bottom plate and the bottom rib can be formed integrally.

[0033] In addition, the above bottom ribs are provided in plurality, and the plurality of bottom ribs can be arranged along the first direction.

[0034] In addition, an automobile according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose includes a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0035] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the thermal stability of the battery pack can be improved.

[0036] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, by easily venting the venting gas, the propagation of a thermal event can be prevented.

[0037] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a structure capable of stably discharging venting gas may be provided by suppressing deformation of the battery unit even when a thermal event occurs.

[0038] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the occurrence of a thermal event can be suppressed by suppressing swelling of the battery cell.

[0039] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, the propagation of a thermal event can be blocked by blocking the flow of venting gas inside the battery unit.

[0040] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention provided below; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery pack of Figure 1 separated.

[0043] Figure 3 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery pack of Figure 2 separated.

[0044] Figure 4 is a drawing showing the battery unit of Figure 3.

[0045] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of the battery unit of Figure 4 separated.

[0046] Figures 6 and 7 are drawings showing the upper frame of Figure 4.

[0047] Figure 8 is a drawing showing the separator of Figure 4.

[0048] Figure 9 is a drawing showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line C-C' of Figure 8.

[0049] Figure 10 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of Figure 1.

[0050] Figure 11 is a drawing showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line B-B' of Figure 1.

[0051] Figure 12 is a diagram showing the change in Figure 11 when a thermal event occurs.

[0052] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an example of a modified lower frame of FIG. 4.

[0053] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 9.

[0054] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 10.

[0055] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 11.

[0056] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a vehicle according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely examples of the present invention and do not represent all aspects of the technical concept of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0060] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a battery pack (1000) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery pack (1000) of FIG. 1 separated. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery pack (1000) of FIG. 2 separated.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the battery pack (1000) may include a pack case (100). The pack case (100) may include a base plate (110). The base plate (110) may have a rectangular shape. The base plate (110) may have a flat shape. The base plate (110) may form the exterior of the battery pack (1000). The base plate (110) may provide an internal space for the battery pack (1000).

[0062] The pack case (100) may include a first side wall (120a). The first side wall (120a) may be installed, fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to a base plate (110). The first side wall (120a) may provide space inside. The first side wall (120a) may form the exterior of the battery pack (1000). The first side wall (120a) may extend along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction.

[0063] The pack case (100) may include a second side wall (120b). The second side wall (120b) may be installed, fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to the base plate (110). The second side wall (120b) may provide space inside. The second side wall (120b) may form the exterior of the battery pack (1000). The second side wall (120b) may extend along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The first side wall (120a) and the second side wall (120b) may face each other.

[0064] The pack case (100) may include a third side wall (120c). The third side wall (120c) may be installed, fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to the base plate (110). The third side wall (120c) may provide space inside. The third side wall (120c) may form the exterior of the battery pack (1000). The third side wall (120c) may extend along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The third side wall (120c) may be provided as a pair. A pair of third side walls (120c) may face each other.

[0065] The pack case (100) may include a pack cover (150). The pack cover (150) may have a square plate shape. The pack cover (150) may have a flat plate shape. The pack cover (150) may form the exterior of the battery pack (1000). The pack cover (150) may cover the internal space of the battery pack (1000). The pack cover (150) may be fastened, coupled, installed, fixed, or attached to at least one of the first side wall (120a), the second side wall (120b), and the third side wall (120c).

[0066] The battery pack (1000) may include a partition wall (300). The partition wall (300) may be provided in multiple numbers. The partition wall (300) may be installed, fastened, fixed, coupled, or attached to the upper surface of the base plate (110). The partition wall (300) may partition the internal space of the battery pack (1000).

[0067] The partition wall (300) may include a first partition wall (310) and a second partition wall (320). The first partition wall (310) may extend along the front-back direction or the X-axis direction. The first partition wall (310) may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple first partition walls (310) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The second partition wall (320) may extend along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0068] A battery pack (1000) may include a battery unit (200). The battery unit (200) or battery cell (220) may be located in the space partitioned by the partition wall (300). The battery unit (200) may be installed, fastened, coupled, fixed, or attached to a base plate (110). The battery unit (200) may be in contact with the upper surface of the base plate (110). A pack cover (150) may cover the battery unit (200) or the battery cell (220) of the battery unit (200).

[0069] The base plate (110) may have a channel (113) inside. The base plate (110) may include an upper plate (111) and a lower plate (112). The lower plate (112) may be fastened, joined, assembled, attached, or fixed to the lower surface of the upper plate (111). The upper plate (111) and the lower plate (112) may form a channel (113). A cooling medium (CM) may flow through the channel (113). For example, the cooling medium (CM) may be water. The base plate (110) may function as a heat sink or a cooling plate. The base plate (110) may exchange heat with a battery cell (220) or a battery unit (200).

[0070] The upper plate (111) may include an inlet hole (115) communicating with the flow path (113). A cooling medium (CM) may be supplied to the flow path (113) through the inlet hole (115). The upper plate (111) may include an outlet hole (114) communicating with the flow path (113). A cooling medium (CM) may be discharged from the flow path (113) through the outlet hole (114).

[0071] The battery pack (1000) may include a venting device (500). The venting device (500) may be installed on the first side wall (120a). For example, the venting device (500) may be a gas valve. The venting device (500) may open to release gas when the pressure inside the pack case (100) increases. Additionally, the venting device (500) may block external air from entering the pack case (100). The venting device (500) may be provided in multiple units.

[0072] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the battery unit (200) of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the battery unit (200) of FIG. 4 separated.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the frame (210) may have a rectangular shape. The frame (210) may form the exterior of the battery unit (200). The frame (210) may provide space inside. The frame (210) may include an upper frame (211) and a lower frame (212).

[0074] The upper frame (211) may include a top plate (211a). The upper frame (211) may include a first side plate (211c). The first side plate (211c) may be provided as a pair. The first side plate (211c) may be provided on the left and right sides of the top plate (211a), respectively. The first side plate (211c) may extend downward from the top plate (211a).

[0075] The upper frame (211) may include a venting hole (211b). The venting hole (211b) may be formed in the top plate (211a). The venting hole (211b) may be placed on top of a plurality of battery cells (220). The venting hole (211b) may be provided in multiple numbers. The plurality of venting holes (211b) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The plurality of venting holes (211b) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0076] The lower frame (212) may include a bottom plate (212a). The bottom plate (212a) may have a second fastening hole (212b). The second fastening hole (212b) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple second fastening holes (212b) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The multiple second fastening holes (212b) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0077] The lower frame (212) may include a second side plate (212c). The second side plate (212c) may be provided as a pair. The second side plate (212c) may be provided on the left and right sides of the bottom plate (212a), respectively. The second side plate (212c) may extend upward from the bottom plate (212a).

[0078] The upper frame (211) and the lower frame (212) can be combined, fastened, attached, or assembled. The first side plate (211c) can be combined, fastened, attached, or assembled with the second side plate (212c).

[0079] The battery unit (200) may include a battery cell (220). The battery cell (220) may be accommodated inside the frame (210). The battery cell (220) may refer to a secondary battery. For example, the battery cell (220) may be a pouch-type secondary battery. However, the shape of the battery cell (220) is not limited to a pouch shape and may have various shapes, such as a cylindrical shape or a rectangular shape.

[0080] The battery cell (220) may be extended along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The direction in which the battery cell (220) is extended may be referred to as the second direction. The battery cell (220) may be provided with a cell case (220a) that provides space inside. The cell case (220a) may include a storage portion (221) having an electrode assembly, a first sealing portion (222) protruding to the front and rear sides of the storage portion (221), respectively, and a second sealing portion (223) protruding above the storage portion (221). The first sealing portion (222) and the second sealing portion (223) may be formed by joining or attaching the cell case (220a). The bottom of the storage portion (221) may be referred to as a folding portion (226). The folding portion (226) may be formed by folding the cell case (220a). Additionally, the battery cell (220) may include electrode leads (224) that protrude to the front and rear sides, respectively, of the first sealing portion (222). The electrode leads (224) may protrude to the front and rear sides of each battery cell (220). The battery cell (220) may include an adhesive member (225) that folds and fixes the second sealing portion (223) to the storage portion (221). The adhesive member (225) may press the second sealing portion (223) against the storage portion (221). The adhesive member (225) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple adhesive members (225) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction.

[0081] A plurality of battery cells (220) may be provided. A plurality of battery cells (220) may be stacked along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The direction in which a plurality of battery cells (220) are stacked may be referred to as the first direction. A plurality of battery cells (220) may form a stack. A plurality of battery cells (220) may be placed between a top plate (211a) and a bottom plate (212a).

[0082] The battery unit (200) may include a separator (240). The separator (240) may be positioned between a plurality of battery cells (220). The separator (240) may be positioned between at least some of the battery cells (220) and / or outside the stack. For example, the separator (240) may be configured to be positioned for every 10 battery cells (220) stacked in the left-right direction. The separator (240) may separate or partition the plurality of battery cells (220). The separator (240) may be positioned between the top plate (211a) and the bottom plate (212a).

[0083] The battery unit (200) may include a barrier (250). The barrier (250) may be positioned between a plurality of battery cells (220). The barrier (250) may be positioned between a top plate (211a) and a bottom plate (212a). The barrier (250) may be positioned between at least some of the battery cells (220) and / or outside the stack. For example, the barrier (250) may be configured to be positioned between every two battery cells (220) stacked along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0084] The barrier (250) may be placed on both sides of the separator (240). For example, the separator (240) may be placed between a pair of barriers (250).

[0085] The barrier (250) may include an elastic material to enable absorption of swelling of the battery cell (220). For example, the barrier (250) may be composed of a foam material such as polyurethane.

[0086] The barrier (250) may include a material capable of blocking heat or flames. For example, the barrier (250) may be composed of an insulating or fireproof material such as silicone or mica.

[0087] The battery unit (200) may include a busbar frame assembly (230). The busbar frame assembly (230) may be provided on the front side and the rear side, respectively, of a plurality of battery cells (220). The busbar frame assembly (230) may be electrically connected to the front side electrode lead (224) of the plurality of battery cells (220). The busbar frame assembly (230) may be electrically connected to the rear side electrode lead (224) of the plurality of battery cells (220). The front busbar frame assembly (230) may be provided with a power terminal.

[0088] The battery unit (200) may include an insulating cover (260). The insulating cover (260) may be provided on the outside of the busbar frame assembly (230). The insulating cover (260) may be provided on the rear busbar frame assembly (230) and the front busbar frame assembly (230), respectively. The insulating cover (260) may include a material having electrical insulating properties.

[0089] The battery unit (200) may include a first end cover (271). The first end cover (271) may be provided on the outside of the front insulation cover (260). The front insulation cover (260) may electrically insulate the first end cover (271) from the front busbar frame assembly (230).

[0090] The battery unit (200) may include a second end cover (272). The second end cover (272) may be provided on the outside of the rear insulation cover (260). The rear insulation cover (260) may electrically insulate the second end cover (272) from the rear busbar frame assembly (230).

[0091] FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 7 are drawings showing the upper frame (211) of FIGS. 4.

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the upper frame (211) may include a top rib (211d). The top rib (211d) may protrude downward from the top plate (211a). The top rib (211d) may be formed integrally with the top plate (211a). The top rib (211d) may extend along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The top rib (211d) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple top ribs (211d) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0093] The upper frame (211) may include a first fastening hole (211e). The first fastening hole (211e) may be formed in the top plate (211a). The first fastening hole (211e) may penetrate the top plate (211a) and the top rib (211d). The first fastening hole (211e) may extend along the vertical direction or the Z-axis direction. The first fastening hole (211e) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple first fastening holes (211e) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The multiple first fastening holes (211e) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0094] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the separator (240) of FIG. 4. FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line C-C' of FIG. 8.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the separator (240) may include a top groove (241). The top groove (241) may be formed on the upper surface of the separator (240). The top groove (241) may be formed in a downward direction or in the -Z axis direction. The top groove (241) may extend along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The top groove (241) may extend along the length direction of the separator (240). The top groove (241) may extend along the length direction of the top rib (211d). The top groove (241) may extend along the length direction of the battery cell (220).

[0096] The separator (240) may include a third fastening hole (242). The third fastening hole (242) may be formed at the bottom of the top groove (241). The third fastening hole (242) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple third fastening holes (242) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction.

[0097] The separator (240) may include a fourth fastening hole (243). The fourth fastening hole (243) may be formed on the lower surface of the separator (240). The fourth fastening hole (243) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple fourth fastening holes (243) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction.

[0098] Figure 10 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of Figure 1.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 10, the top rib (211d) can be received in the top groove (241). Each top rib (211d) can be received in each top groove (241). The top plate (211a) can be in contact with the top of the separator (240). The separator (240) can support the top plate (211a).

[0100] The upper fastening member (S1) can penetrate the top plate (211a). The upper fastening member (S1) can penetrate the top rib (211d). The upper fastening member (S1) can pass through the first fastening hole (211e). The upper fastening member (S1) can be fastened, coupled, fixed, or assembled in the third fastening hole (242). The upper fastening member (S1) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple upper fastening members (S1) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The upper fastening member (S1) can fasten, coupled, fixed, or assembled the top plate (211a) and the separator (240).

[0101] The lower fastening member (S2) can penetrate the bottom plate (212a). The lower fastening member (S2) can pass through the second fastening hole (212b). The lower fastening member (S2) can be fastened, coupled, fixed, or assembled in the fourth fastening hole (243). The lower fastening member (S2) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple lower fastening members (S2) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The lower fastening member (S2) can fasten, coupled, fixed, or assembled the bottom plate (212a) and the separator (240).

[0102] A venting space (VS) may be formed between the battery unit (200) and the pack cover (150). A venting space (VS) may be formed between the top plate (211a) and the pack cover (150). A venting space (VS) may be formed between the upper frame (211) and the pack cover (150).

[0103] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line B-B' of FIG. 1. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the change in FIG. 11 when a thermal event occurs.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the separator (240) is firmly coupled to the frame (210) so as to suppress swelling of the battery cell (220). As a result, the occurrence of thermal events can be suppressed.

[0105] When swelling occurs from the battery cell (220), the separator (240) may be subjected to lateral pressure or pressure in the Y-axis direction. The separator (240) may be coupled to the top plate (211a) or top rib (211d) through the upper fastening member (S1) so that deformation caused by swelling can be suppressed. The separator (240) may be coupled to the bottom plate (212a) through the lower fastening member (S2) so that deformation caused by swelling can be suppressed. As a result, the structure of the battery unit (200) can be maintained stably, and the occurrence of thermal events can be suppressed. In addition, the thermal stability of the battery unit (200) can be improved.

[0106] When a thermal event occurs, venting gas (G) may be discharged from the battery cell (220). The venting gas (G) may be discharged to the outside of the battery unit (200) through the venting hole (211b). The venting gas (G) may be discharged into the venting space (VS).

[0107] When a thermal event occurs, a gap may form between the top plate (211a) and the separator (240). The top rib (211d) inserted into the separator (240) can block the gap between the top plate (211a) and the separator (240). As a result, the flow of high-temperature venting gas (G) within the battery unit (200) along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction can be blocked. The top rib (211d) can block the flow of venting gas (G). As a result, the propagation of the thermal event can be blocked.

[0108] The top plate (211a) may be exposed to high temperatures. The rigidity of the top plate (211a) can be improved by providing a top rib (211d). By providing the top rib (211d), thermal deformation of the top plate (211a) can be suppressed even when exposed to high temperatures. As deformation of the top plate (211a) is suppressed, the venting space (VS) can be stably secured. As a result, even if a thermal event occurs, the venting gas (G) can rapidly diffuse through the venting space (VS).

[0109] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of the lower frame (212) of FIG. 4.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 13, the lower frame (212) may include a bottom rib (212d). The bottom rib (212d) may protrude upward from the bottom plate (212a). The bottom rib (212d) may be formed integrally with the bottom plate (212a). The bottom rib (212d) may extend along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The bottom rib (212d) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple bottom ribs (212d) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0111] The lower frame (212) may include a second fastening hole (212b). The second fastening hole (212b) may be formed in the bottom plate (212a). The second fastening hole (212b) may penetrate the bottom plate (212a) and the bottom rib (212d). The second fastening hole (212b) may extend along the vertical direction or the Z-axis direction. The second fastening hole (212b) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple second fastening holes (212b) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The multiple second fastening holes (212b) may be arranged along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0112] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 9.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 14, the separator (240) may include a bottom groove (244). The bottom groove (244) may be formed on the lower surface of the separator (240). The bottom groove (244) may be recessed upward from the bottom plate (212a). The bottom groove (244) may be formed in an upward direction or in the +Z-axis direction. The bottom groove (244) may extend along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The bottom groove (244) may extend along the length direction of the separator (240). The bottom groove (244) may extend along the length direction of the bottom rib (212d). The bottom groove (244) may extend along the length direction of the battery cell (220).

[0114] The separator (240) may include a fourth fastening hole (243). The fourth fastening hole (243) may be formed at the top of the bottom groove (244). The fourth fastening hole (243) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple fourth fastening holes (243) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction.

[0115] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 10.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 15, the bottom rib (212d) can be received in the bottom groove (244). Each bottom rib (212d) can be received in each bottom groove (244). The bottom plate (212a) can be in contact with the bottom of the separator (240). The separator (240) can support the bottom plate (212a).

[0117] The lower fastening member (S2) can penetrate the bottom plate (212a). The lower fastening member (S2) can penetrate the bottom rib (212d). The lower fastening member (S2) can pass through the second fastening hole (212b). The lower fastening member (S2) can be fastened, coupled, fixed, or assembled in the fourth fastening hole (243). The lower fastening member (S2) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple lower fastening members (S2) may be arranged along the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The lower fastening member (S2) can fasten, coupled, fixed, or assembled the bottom plate (212a) and the separator (240).

[0118] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a modified embodiment of FIG. 11.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 16, the separator (240) can be more strongly connected to the lower frame (212) due to the bottom rib (212d).

[0120] When swelling occurs from the battery cell (220), the separator (240) may be subjected to lateral pressure or pressure in the Y-axis direction. The separator (240) is additionally coupled to the bottom plate (212a) or bottom rib (212d) through the lower fastening member (S2), thereby further suppressing deformation caused by swelling. As a result, the structure of the battery unit (200) can be maintained stably, and the occurrence of thermal events can be suppressed. Additionally, the thermal stability of the battery unit (200) can be improved.

[0121] When a thermal event occurs, a gap may form between the bottom plate (212a) and the separator (240). The bottom rib (212d) inserted into the separator (240) can block the gap between the bottom plate (212a) and the separator (240). As a result, the flow of high-temperature venting gas (G) within the battery unit (200) along the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction can be blocked. The bottom rib (212d) can block the flow of venting gas (G). As a result, the propagation of the thermal event can be blocked.

[0122] The bottom plate (212a) may be exposed to high temperatures. The rigidity of the bottom plate (212a) can be improved by providing a bottom rib (212d). By providing the bottom rib (212d), thermal deformation of the bottom plate (212a) can be suppressed even when exposed to high temperatures. As deformation of the bottom plate (212a) is suppressed, the structure of the battery unit (200) can be maintained, and the venting space (VS) can be stably secured. As a result, even if a thermal event occurs, the venting gas (G) can rapidly diffuse through the venting space (VS).

[0123] The battery pack (1000) according to the present invention may further include various battery pack components known at the time of filing the present invention, such as a BMS, relays, current sensors, etc.

[0124] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a vehicle (V) according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 17, the battery pack (1000) according to the present invention can be applied to a vehicle (V), such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may include the battery pack (1000) according to the present invention. In addition, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery pack (1000). For example, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may further include a vehicle body, a motor, an electronic control unit (ECU), and other control devices.

[0126] As described above, although the present invention has been explained by limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs.

Claims

1. Base plate; A plurality of battery cells disposed on the base plate and stacked along a first direction, wherein each battery cell is a plurality of battery cells extending along a second direction; A separator that separates the plurality of battery cells, extends along the second direction, and includes a top groove formed on the upper surface; A top plate positioned above the plurality of battery cells and the separator; A top rib protruding downward from the top plate and received in the top groove; and, A battery pack including a pack cover covering the top plate.

2. In Paragraph 1, The top groove and the top rib mentioned above are, A battery pack extending along the second direction above.

3. In Paragraph 1, The top plate and the top rib are, A battery pack formed as a single unit.

4. In Paragraph 1, A battery pack further comprising an upper fastening member that penetrates the top plate and the top rib and is fastened to the separator.

5. In Paragraph 4, The above upper fastening members are provided in multiple numbers, and The above plurality of upper fastening members are, A battery pack arranged along the second direction above.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above top ribs are provided in multiple numbers, and The above plurality of top ribs are, A battery pack arranged along the first direction above.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above top plate is, A battery pack having a plurality of venting holes disposed on top of the plurality of battery cells.

8. In Paragraph 1, A bottom plate disposed between the plurality of battery cells and the base plate; and, A battery pack further comprising a lower fastening member that penetrates the bottom plate and is fastened to the separator.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above lower fastening members are provided in multiple numbers, and The above plurality of lower fastening members are, A battery pack arranged along the second direction above.

10. In Paragraph 8, It further includes a bottom rib protruding upward from the bottom plate, and The above separator is, A battery pack further comprising a bottom groove formed on the lower surface and accommodating the bottom rib.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above lower fastening member is, A battery pack penetrating the bottom rib above.

12. In Paragraph 10, The above bottom groove and the above bottom rib are, A battery pack extending along the second direction above.

13. In Paragraph 10, The above bottom plate and the above bottom rib are, A battery pack formed as a single unit.

14. In Paragraph 10, The above bottom ribs are provided in multiple numbers, and The above plurality of bottom ribs are, A battery pack arranged along the first direction above.

15. An automobile comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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