Battery pack and vehicle including same

Abstract

A battery pack of the present invention may comprise: a plurality of battery cells; a pack case which accommodates the plurality of battery cells and has a cover frame covering one surface of the battery cells; a cooling tank which is filled with a cooling medium and is connected to the cover frame; and a cooling module which is connected to the cooling tank and has a first cooling path at least partially accommodated in the cover frame.

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. 10-2025-0036821 filed on March 21, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said application are incorporated into this application by reference.

[0003]

[0004] Secondary batteries, which possess electrical characteristics such as high energy density and high applicability across product categories, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources.

[0005] These secondary batteries are attracting attention as a new energy source for improving eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only for the primary advantage of being able to drastically reduce the use of fossil fuels, but also because they do not generate any by-products from the use of energy.

[0006] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. When a high output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery module or battery pack. Additionally, to increase charge / discharge capacity, multiple battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery module or battery pack. Therefore, 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.

[0007] 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.

[0008] However, when multiple battery modules are contained within a battery pack in this manner, it can be vulnerable to thermal chain reactions between the modules. For example, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs within a single battery module, this runaway can propagate to other battery modules. If the propagation of thermal runaway between battery modules is not properly suppressed, an event originating in a specific module can trigger a chain reaction across multiple modules, potentially causing serious problems such as explosions or fires.

[0009] Therefore, in the event that an event such as thermal runaway occurs in a battery pack, there is a need to develop a structure capable of rapidly cooling the battery cells in the event of thermal runaway in the battery module.

[0010]

[0011] The present invention was conceived against the background of the prior art described above and provides a battery pack capable of rapidly cooling a battery cell when thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell.

[0012] Another technical objective of the present invention is to provide an automobile including a battery pack of an improved structure.

[0013] 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 a person skilled in the art from the description of the invention below.

[0014]

[0015] To solve the above problem, the battery pack of the present invention may include a pack case having a cover frame that accommodates the plurality of battery cells and covers one side of the battery cells; a cooling tank that is filled with a cooling medium and connected to the cover frame; and a cooling module that is connected to the cooling tank and has a first cooling path that is at least partially accommodated within the cover frame.

[0016] The above cooling module may further comprise a plurality of second cooling paths connected to the first cooling path and each extended toward the plurality of battery cells.

[0017] The above cover frame may have a protrusion in which at least a portion protrudes and a receiving space is formed inside, and the first cooling path may be provided in the receiving space.

[0018] The above cover frame covers the upper part of the battery cell, and the protrusion may protrude upward from the cover frame.

[0019] The plurality of battery cells are grouped into at least one cell stack arranged in a first direction within the pack case, and the cell stack comprises a first stack and a second stack aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the protrusion may be formed to extend in the first direction and disposed between the first stack and the second stack.

[0020] The above cover frame may further include at least one water supply section that extends from the above protrusion toward the battery cell and is configured to open when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell, and the second cooling path may be accommodated within the water supply section.

[0021] The above-mentioned water supply unit may further comprise a water supply hole formed to face the battery cell and a cover member configured to cover the water supply hole.

[0022] The apparatus further includes a plurality of module housings configured to group and accommodate the plurality of battery cells, and the plurality of water supply units may be arranged to correspond to each of the plurality of module housings.

[0023] The above module housing may include a cooling hole provided to face the above water supply hole.

[0024] It may further include a cooling plate covering the lower part of the battery cell.

[0025] The above cover frame covers the upper part of the battery cell, and the protrusion may protrude downward from the cover frame.

[0026] The above pack case further comprises a base frame configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells, a side frame arranged to surround the battery cells, and a cross beam configured to partition the internal space of the pack case, and the cover frame may be coupled to the cross beam.

[0027] And, the present invention provides an automobile characterized by including a battery pack according to the present invention.

[0028]

[0029] According to one aspect of the present invention, when a thermal event such as thermal runaway occurs in a battery pack, a cooling medium is directly introduced to the battery cell side, thereby effectively and rapidly cooling the battery cell. Accordingly, the cooling performance of the battery pack can be improved. Consequently, the propagation of thermal runaway between battery cells can be effectively prevented or delayed. This ensures the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0030] Furthermore, according to the above aspect of the present invention, since at least a portion of the cooling module is provided inside the pack case, there is no need to secure separate additional space, thereby minimizing the overall volume of the battery pack. Additionally, by integrating the cooling furnace and the cover frame, separate support structures or additional fixing parts become unnecessary, which reduces the overall number of parts and manufacturing costs. Moreover, as the cooling system is integrated within the frame, alignment, fastening, and wiring operations between parts are simplified during the assembly process, thereby improving productivity and assembly efficiency. Consequently, the dead space of the battery pack is reduced, and the internal capacity can be increased within the same external form factor.

[0031] Furthermore, according to the above aspect of the present invention, it is possible to selectively cool only a specific battery cell among a plurality of battery cells. In addition, by performing individual cooling on some battery cells where a thermal event has occurred, the thermal management efficiency of the cooling module can be maximized.

[0032] In addition, according to the above aspect of the present invention, by being provided with a structure protruding toward the battery cell, the cooling medium can be discharged more quickly and delivered via the shortest path. As a result, the battery cell can be effectively and rapidly cooled. Therefore, the cooling performance of the battery pack can be improved.

[0033] 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 including a plurality of battery modules or a device equipped with them can be prevented or delayed.

[0034] 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.

[0035]

[0036] 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.

[0037] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a part of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from above.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a cover frame of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0041] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0042] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cooling module of FIG. 5 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention when a thermal event occurs.

[0044] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a module housing that encloses a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 9 is a top view of a part of a pack case according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0047] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0048] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0049] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050]

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] Additionally, to aid in understanding the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to actual scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Furthermore, the same reference numerals may be assigned to identical components in different embodiments.

[0055] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless specifically stated otherwise, the first component may also be the second component.

[0056] Throughout the specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, each component may be singular or plural.

[0057] In the following, the statement that any configuration is placed on the "upper (or lower)" of a component or on the "upper (or lower)" of a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of said component, but also that another configuration may be interposed between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0058] In addition, where it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while the components may be directly connected or connected to each other, another component may be "interposed" between each component, or each component may be "connected," "combined," or "connected" through another component.

[0059] Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "composed of" or "comprising" should not be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or steps may be omitted or additional components or steps may be included.

[0060] Throughout the specification, "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B unless specifically stated otherwise, and "C to D" means C or more and D or less unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0061] For convenience of explanation, in this specification, the direction following the longitudinal direction of the winding axis of an electrode assembly wound in a jelly roll shape is referred to as the axial direction (Y). The direction surrounding the winding axis is referred to as the circumferential direction or periphery direction (X). The direction approaching the winding axis or moving away from the winding axis is referred to as the radial direction or radial direction (Z). In particular, the direction approaching the winding axis is referred to as the centripetal direction, and the direction moving away from the winding axis is referred to as the centrifugal direction.

[0062] FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a part of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention viewed from above.

[0063] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a battery cell (100), a pack case (200), and a cooling module (300).

[0064] First, referring primarily to FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be included. Although not shown in the drawing, these plurality of battery cells (100) may include an electrode assembly, a cell frame that accommodates the electrode assembly, and an electrode lead that is connected to the electrode assembly and extends outward from the cell frame to function as an electrode terminal. At this time, the plurality of battery cells (100) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0065] A plurality of battery cells (100) can be stacked in at least one direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (100) can be arranged side by side in the front-back direction (X-axis direction) while standing upright in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0066] Meanwhile, 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 to constitute the battery pack (1) of the present invention. 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 also be applied as battery cells (100).

[0067] The pack case (200) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The pack case (200) may be provided in a box shape including a plurality of frames.

[0068] The pack case (200) may be made of a material capable of ensuring mechanical strength, such as steel or SUS metal or plastic, or may include such a material, in order to safely protect the battery cell (100) housed inside.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 2, the pack case (200) may include a base frame (210), a plurality of side frames (220), a cross beam (230), and a cover frame (240).

[0070] The base frame (210) can be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100). The base frame (210) can form the lower surface of the pack case (200) and can be provided in the shape of a square plate. Additionally, the base frame (210) can be provided with a flat upper surface so that the battery cells (100) can be stably accommodated.

[0071] A plurality of side frames (220) may be provided extending upward from each corner of the base frame (210). A plurality of side frames (220) may be provided to surround the battery cell (100). More specifically, the plurality of side frames (220) may each be provided as a right wall located at the +X direction side end of the base frame (210), a rear wall located at the +Y direction side end, a left wall located at the -X direction side end, and a front wall located at the -Y direction side end, thereby forming the sides of the pack case (200).

[0072] The cross beam (230) may be configured to partition the internal space of the pack case (200). The cross beam (230) may be configured to partition a plurality of battery cells (100). The cross beam (230) may be configured to extend along the left-right direction and / or the front-back direction of the pack case (200).

[0073] A plurality of cross beams (230) may be provided. The cross beams (230) may be provided to connect side frames (220) facing each other among a plurality of side frames (220). For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be arranged in a 4-row, 2-column configuration by the cross beams (230).

[0074] The cover frame (240) may be configured to cover the upper portion of the battery cell (100). The cover frame (240) may be provided to form the upper surface of the pack case (200). The cover frame (240) may be coupled to the side frame (220). Alternatively, the cover frame (240) may be provided integrated with the side frame (220).

[0075] Referring to FIG. 2, the pack case (200) may further include a venting device (250). The venting device (250) may be configured to discharge gas generated in the battery cell (100) to the outside of the pack case (200). The venting device (250) may be configured to open by the pressure of the venting gas and discharge the venting gas to the outside of the pack case (200) when the internal pressure rises due to the generation of venting gas inside the pack case (200).

[0076] The venting device (250) may be configured to open and close according to the internal pressure inside the pack case (200). Alternatively, the venting device (250) may be configured in the form of a hole. Meanwhile, the present invention is not limited by the specific type or form of such venting device (250), and various venting devices (250) known at the time of filing the present invention may be employed to constitute the battery pack (1) of the present invention.

[0077] The cooling module (300) may be configured to cool the battery cell (100). The cooling module (300) may be configured to be filled with a cooling medium inside. The cooling module (300) may include a material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum.

[0078] A cooling module (300) may be provided on at least one side of the pack case (200). Referring to FIG. 2, the cooling module (300) may be provided on the inside of the pack case (200). The cooling module (300) may be provided on the inside or the bottom side of the cover frame (240) of the pack case (200). However, the location of the cooling module (300) is not limited by the above embodiment and can be designed in various ways. For example, although not shown in the drawing, the cooling module (300) may be located on the outside (e.g., the top side) of the pack case (200).

[0079] The cooling module (300) may be equipped with a cooling tank (310) and a cooling furnace (320, 330).

[0080] The cooling tank (310) may be filled with a cooling medium inside. The cooling tank (310) may be connected to a cooling component outside the battery pack (1). The cooling tank (310) may absorb heat generated from the battery cell (100) and release it to the outside. The cooling tank (310) may be controlled so that the temperature of the cooling medium is maintained at a constant level. Accordingly, the heat generated from the battery cell (100) can be efficiently managed and stability can be increased.

[0081] The cooling tank (310) may be located inside the pack case (200). The cooling tank (310) may be located, for example, alongside the battery cells (100) and may be accommodated in an empty space where the battery cells (100) are not stacked. For example, the cooling tank (310) may be located to the left (-X-axis direction) of the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0082] The cooling tank (310) may be connected to the cover frame (240). The cooling tank (310) may further be provided with a connecting part (not shown) for connection to the cover frame (240). The connecting part may be configured to connect the cover frame (240) and the cooling tank (310). The connecting part may, for example, be formed to extend upward from the cooling tank (310) and may have a hollow formed inside to allow the cooling medium to move.

[0083] The cooling passage (320, 330) may be configured to allow a cooling medium, such as cooling water, to flow through its interior. Additionally, the cooling passage (320, 330) is designed to uniformly supply a cooling medium to a plurality of battery cells (100), and can enable effective thermal management by efficiently guiding the cooling medium to a position corresponding to each battery cell (100). That is, the cooling passage (320, 330) can be defined as a passage through which the cooling medium moves. For example, the cooling passage (320, 330) can be defined as a cooling path or a cooling channel.

[0084] Accordingly, the cooling furnace (320, 330) can maintain the temperature of all battery cells (100) in the battery pack (1) evenly. Accordingly, performance degradation and shortening of the lifespan of the battery cells (100) and the battery pack (1) can be prevented.

[0085] In FIGS. 2 and 3, the cooling passages (320, 330) are shown separately for convenience of explanation, but according to the present invention, the cooling passages (320, 330) may substantially refer to cooling passages formed within the cover frame (240).

[0086] Specifically, the cooling furnace (320, 330) may be equipped with a first cooling furnace (320) and a second cooling furnace (330).

[0087] The first cooling path (320) can be connected to the cooling tank (310). The first cooling path (320) can move the cooling medium of the cooling tank (310) toward the battery cell (100).

[0088] The first cooling furnace (320) may be provided on one side of the battery cell (100). For example, as in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first cooling furnace (320) may be provided on the upper side of the battery cell (100).

[0089] The first cooling path (320) may extend in a first direction (X-axis direction). The first cooling path (320) may be positioned adjacent to all battery cells (100) contained within the battery pack (1). For example, the first cooling path (320) may be positioned to face vertically at least a portion of all battery cells (100) contained within the battery pack (1). For example, the first cooling path (320) may be provided in a structure extending in the first direction from a central portion of a second direction (length direction, Y-axis direction) that is perpendicular to the first direction of the pack case (200). For example, the first cooling path (320) may be located on the upper side of a cross beam (230) extended in the first direction.

[0090] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 3, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be grouped into at least one cell stack (100a, 100b) stacked in the first direction within the pack case (200). The cell stack (100a, 100b) may include a first stack (100a) and a second stack (100b) aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. That is, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be grouped into a first stack (100a) and a second stack (100b) aligned in two rows. In other words, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be stacked in two layers. For example, the first stack (100a) may be located in the rear (+Y direction) and the second stack (100b) may be located in the front (-Y direction).

[0091] At this time, the first cooling furnace (320) may be located between the first laminate (100a) and the second laminate (100b). Thus, the cooling medium can be discharged evenly to the first laminate (100a) and the second laminate (100b).

[0092] When thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell (100), high-temperature discharges such as venting gas have a strong tendency to move upward and can move toward the upper side of the pack case (200).

[0093] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, as the first cooling furnace (320) is provided on the upper part of the battery cell (100), the temperature of venting gas or flames, etc., can be lowered or cooled by the cooling medium inside the first cooling furnace (320). That is, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the heat of the venting gas, etc., being discharged can be efficiently controlled.

[0094] In particular, the first cooling path (320) may be partially accommodated within the cover frame (240). That is, the first cooling path (320) may be formed in the internal space of the cover frame (240). For example, a hollow may be formed inside the cover frame (240) to allow a cooling medium to flow through the hollow. For example, the first cooling path (320) may be configured to flow within the cover frame (240) as a passage for the cooling medium to flow. That is, a separate part for the first cooling path (320) may be omitted, and the first cooling path (320) may be formed inside the cover frame (240).

[0095] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the first cooling furnace (320) is housed within the cover frame (240), so there is no need to secure separate additional space, thereby minimizing the overall volume of the battery pack (1). Furthermore, by integrating the first cooling furnace (320) and the cover frame (240), separate support structures or additional fixing parts become unnecessary, thus reducing the overall number of parts and manufacturing costs. Moreover, as the cooling system is integrated within the cover frame (240), alignment, fastening, and wiring operations between parts are simplified during the assembly process, thereby improving productivity and assembly efficiency. Consequently, the dead space of the battery pack (1) is reduced, and the internal capacity can be increased within the same external shape.

[0096] The second cooling path (330) is connected to the first cooling path (320) and can extend from the first cooling path (320) toward each of the plurality of battery cells (100). That is, the second cooling path (330) receives the cooling medium supplied from the first cooling path (320), distributes it in the direction toward each battery cell (100), and thereby efficiently supplies the cooling medium.

[0097] The second cooling furnace (330) may be provided in multiple numbers. The second cooling furnace (330) may be arranged at regular intervals. The second cooling furnace (330) may be located in the front direction and the rear direction of the first cooling furnace (320), respectively. The second cooling furnace (330) located in the front direction (-Y-axis direction) of the first cooling furnace (320) may extend toward the second laminate (100b). The second cooling furnace (330) located in the rear direction (+Y-axis direction) of the first cooling furnace (320) may extend toward the first laminate (100a).

[0098] For example, the second cooling furnace (330) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the first cooling furnace (320). For example, the second cooling furnace (330) may extend downward from the lower surface of the first cooling furnace (320).

[0099] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to selectively cool only a specific battery cell (100) among a plurality of battery cells (100). In addition, by performing individual cooling on some battery cells (100) where a thermal event has occurred, the thermal management efficiency of the cooling module (300) can be maximized.

[0100] In addition, according to the above aspect of the present invention, the second cooling path (330) is provided with a structure protruding toward the battery cell (100), thereby allowing the cooling medium to be discharged more quickly and delivered via the shortest path. As a result, the battery cell (100) can be effectively and quickly cooled. Thus, the cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be improved.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 2, a battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a cooling plate (400).

[0102] The cooling plate (400) may be configured to be filled with a cooling medium inside. The cooling plate (400) may include a material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum.

[0103] The cooling plate (400) can perform a cooling function for the battery cell (100) by effectively transferring and releasing heat through direct contact with the battery cell (100). The cooling plate (400) can cover the lower part of the battery cell (100). The cooling plate (400) can be seated on the upper part of the base frame (210). The cooling plate (400) can serve to cool the battery cell (100).

[0104] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the cooling plate (400) is in close contact with the battery cell (100), so that it can prevent overheating of the battery cell (100) and maintain a stable temperature not only when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100) but also in a general environment. Through this, the performance and lifespan of the battery can be improved and safety can be increased.

[0105] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a cover frame of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0106] The above cover frame (240) may have a protrusion (241) in which at least a portion protrudes and a receiving space (S) is formed inside. That is, at least a portion of the cover frame (240) may be a bent structure.

[0107] The thickness of the protrusion (241) of the cover frame (240) may be thicker than the thickness of other areas of the cover frame (240). For example, the protrusion (241) may have a trapezoidal shape. However, the shape of the protrusion (241) is not limited by the above embodiment and may be designed in various ways. For example, the shape of the protrusion (241) may be designed as a semicircular shape or a triangular shape.

[0108] Specifically, the cover frame (240) covers the upper part of the battery cell (100), and the protrusion (241) may protrude upward from the cover frame (240). For example, the upper surface of the cover frame (240) may have a shape in which at least a portion protrudes upward, and the lower surface of the cover frame (240) may have a flat shape.

[0109] The protrusion (241) may extend in a first direction (X-axis direction). The protrusion (241) may be positioned adjacent to all battery cells (100) contained within the battery pack (1). For example, the lower surface of the protrusion (241) may be positioned to face vertically at least a portion of all battery cells (100) contained within the battery pack (1). For example, the protrusion (241) may be provided as a structure extending in the first direction from a central portion of a second direction (length direction, Y-axis direction) that is perpendicular to the first direction of the pack case (200). For example, the protrusion (241) may be located on the upper side of a cross beam (230) extended in the first direction.

[0110] Additionally, the protrusion (241) may be located between the first laminate (100a) and the second laminate (100b). The protrusion (241) may be positioned so as to face at least a portion of the first laminate (100a) and the second laminate (100b). Thus, the cooling medium can be discharged evenly to the first laminate (100a) and the second laminate (100b).

[0111] A receiving space (S) may be formed inside the protrusion (241), and the receiving space (S) may be surrounded by the upper and lower surfaces of the protrusion (241). At this time, the first cooling path (320) may be provided in the receiving space (S). That is, the protrusion (241) may provide a passage for the first cooling path (320), and the protrusion (241) itself may function as a cooling pipe. Accordingly, the shape of the first cooling path (320) may correspond to the shape of the protrusion (241). For example, the first cooling path (320) may have a trapezoidal shape.

[0112] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the cover frame (240) has a bent structure and at least a portion protrudes, so that force can be dispersed when subjected to external impact or load. Accordingly, the structural rigidity of the cover frame (240) can be improved.

[0113] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the protrusion (241) serves to form a flow path of the first cooling path (320), so the cooling path can be effectively supported without a separate support structure or additional fixing parts. Accordingly, the number of parts can be reduced and manufacturing costs can be lowered.

[0114] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the protrusion (241) is positioned in a location most effectively adjacent to all battery cells (100), so that when a thermal event occurs in a specific battery cell (100), rapid cooling may be possible. Thus, cooling performance may be improved.

[0115] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cooling module of FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a case where a thermal event occurs in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] The cover frame (240) may further include at least one water supply section (260) extending from the protrusion (241) toward the battery cell (100). The cover frame (240) and the water supply section (260) may be formed integrally or arranged to be coupled to each other. The second cooling furnace (330) may be accommodated within the water supply section (260).

[0117] The water supply section (260) may be configured to discharge a cooling medium toward the battery cell (100). The water supply section (260) may be in communication with the cover frame (240), and the second cooling path (330) within the water supply section (260) may be in communication with the first cooling path (320) contained within the cover frame (240).

[0118] The water supply portion (260) may be formed to protrude from the cover frame (240) toward the battery cell (100). The water supply portion (260) may be formed to extend inward from the lower surface of the cover frame (240). For example, the water supply portion (260) may be a part formed to extend vertically from the cover frame (240). For example, the water supply portion (260) may be formed to protrude downward from the lower surface of the cover frame (240). At this time, a hole may be formed on the lower surface of the cover frame (240) that is coupled with the water supply portion (260).

[0119] A plurality of water supply units (260) may be provided. A plurality of water supply units (260) may be spaced apart in the horizontal direction. For example, a plurality of water supply units (260) may be spaced apart in the stacking direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cells (100). A water supply unit (260) may be positioned to correspond to at least one battery cell (100). For example, a water supply unit (260) may be positioned to correspond to at least some of the battery cells (100) arranged side by side. The position, number, and shape of the water supply units (260) may correspond to the position, number, and shape of the second cooling furnace (330).

[0120] The water supply unit (260) can be configured to open when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100).

[0121] When a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), at least one side of the water supply section (260) is opened so that the internal cooling medium can be discharged to the outside of the cooling module (300) and flow into the battery cell (100). For example, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), the lower side of the water supply section (260) is opened so that the internal cooling medium can be discharged to the outside of the cooling module (300) and flow into the battery cell (100).

[0122] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event such as thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell (100), a cooling medium within a cooling module (300) can be directly introduced in the direction where the battery cell (100) is located through a water supply section (260). That is, the cooling medium of the cooling module (300) can directly cool the battery cell (100). By doing so, efficient cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be secured.

[0123] In addition, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the temperature of the battery cell (100) can be rapidly reduced by the cooling medium at the beginning of a thermal event, so that heat propagation between the battery cells (100) can be delayed or prevented. Thus, the stability and reliability of the battery pack (1) can be guaranteed.

[0124] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the distance between the water supply unit (260) and the battery cell (100) is formed to be short, so that the cooling medium can be discharged more quickly and delivered via the shortest path. As a result, the battery cell (100) can be effectively and quickly cooled. Therefore, the cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be improved.

[0125] Specifically, a water supply hole (H1) may be formed in the water supply section (260). The water supply hole (H1) may be formed to face the battery cell (100). The water supply hole (H1) may be a hole capable of discharging the cooling medium inside the cooling module (300) toward the battery cell (100). With the water supply hole (H1) formed, the water supply section (260) may be opened in a downward direction.

[0126] The cooling module (300) may further include a cover member (270) configured to cover the water supply hole (H1) of the water supply section (260). For example, the cover member (270) may be coupled to the water supply section (260). That is, the water supply section (260) may cover the side of the second cooling path (330), and the cover member may cover the lower part of the second cooling path (330).

[0127] The cover member (270) may be configured in the form of a sheet. The cover member (270) may be configured with a thin thickness. For example, the cover member (270) may include a polymer film material such as PP or PE. The cover member (270) may be configured with a minimum thickness of 0.05 / 0.1 / 0.2 mm depending on the material.

[0128] Multiple cover members (270) may be provided. Multiple cover members (270) may be provided for each of the multiple water supply holes (H1).

[0129] Additionally, referring to FIG. 6, the cover member (270) may be configured to open the water supply hole (H1) when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100). For example, the melting point of the cover member (270) may be lower than the melting point of the cover frame (240) and / or the water supply part (260). For example, the strength of the cover member (270) may be lower than the strength of the cover frame (240) and / or the water supply part (260).

[0130] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the cover member (270) is provided so as to prevent the cooling medium inside the cooling module (300) from being discharged to the battery cell (100) side through the water supply hole (H1) in the normal state of the battery pack (1).

[0131] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell (100), the cooling medium inside the cooling module (300) can be configured to flow directly into the battery cell (100) through the water supply hole (H1) (see FIG. 7).

[0132] Additionally, among the plurality of water supply holes (H1), only the water supply hole (H1) provided on the side of the battery cell (100) where a thermal event occurred may be configured to be opened. Accordingly, in a normal state, the cover member (270) maintains a state of covering the water supply hole (H1), thereby preventing the discharge of the cooling medium. However, if a thermal event occurs in which venting gas or flames are generated in some battery cells (100), at least a part of the cover member (270) may be opened to open at least a part of the water supply hole (H1).

[0133] Thus, according to the embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the cover member (270) opens a portion of the water supply hole (H1) so that the cooling medium can be directed toward the battery cell (100). Accordingly, efficient cooling performance of the battery pack (1) can be secured.

[0134] The cover member (270) can be positioned closest to the battery cell (100) relative to the cover frame (240). For example, the cover member (270) can be attached to the lower part of the water supply section (260). Thus, the distance between the cover member (270) and the battery cell (100) can be shorter than the distance between the cover frame (240) and the battery cell (100).

[0135] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell (100), the cover member (270) can be rapidly ruptured or melted, so that the cooling medium can be more rapidly introduced into the battery cell (100). In addition, the connection between the cover member (270) and the water supply part (260) can be easy and assembly can be simple.

[0136] However, the structure and shape of the water supply section (260) are not limited by the embodiment, and various design changes may be possible as long as it can be opened by heat.

[0137] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a module housing that encloses a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] Meanwhile, a plurality of battery cells (100) may be grouped into one or more battery assemblies (10). That is, the battery pack (1) according to the present invention includes a plurality of battery assemblies (10), and the plurality of battery cells (100) included in the battery pack (1) may be divided and included in the plurality of battery assemblies (10). At this time, the multiple battery cells (100) included within the battery assembly (10) may be electrically connected to each other. The battery assembly (10) may further include a busbar assembly and / or module terminals, etc., electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells (100).

[0139] The battery pack (1) may further include a module housing (110) configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells (100) in a group. The module housing (110) may be configured to have an empty space formed inside to accommodate the battery cells (100) in the internal space. That is, the module housing (110) may be configured to group a plurality of battery cells (100) into multiple battery assemblies (10) and physically separate the internal space of each battery assembly (10).

[0140] The module housing (110) may include a metal material having rigidity and heat resistance to physically or chemically protect the housed battery cell (100). In addition, the module housing (110) may adopt an exterior material of various battery assemblies (10) known at the time of filing the present invention.

[0141] The module housing (110) may be provided with a top plate (111) covering the upper surface of the battery cell (100) and a side plate (112) covering the side of the battery cell (100). The top plate (111) and the side plate (112) may be formed integrally or joined. For example, the top plate (111) and the side plate (112) may be joined by welding. Additionally, the module housing (110) may further be provided with a base plate covering the lower surface of the battery cell (100). In this case, the base plate may be formed integrally or joined with the side plate (112). For example, the top plate (111) and the side plate (112) may be joined by welding.

[0142] At this time, each of the plurality of water supply units (260) may be arranged to correspond to each of the plurality of module housings (110). According to the above embodiment of the present invention, water can be supplied in units of battery assemblies (10) covered by the module housings (110). Accordingly, the cooling of the battery cell (100) can be efficiently designed.

[0143] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a cooling hole (H2) may be formed on one side of the module housing (110) at a position corresponding to the water supply hole (H1). A cooling hole (H2) may be formed in the top plate (111) of the module housing (110). The cooling hole (H2) may correspond in a vertical direction to the water supply hole (H1). For example, the location and number of the cooling holes (H2) may correspond to the location and number of the water supply holes (H1).

[0144] According to one embodiment, the size of the cooling hole (H2) may correspond to the size of the water supply hole (H1). For example, referring to FIG. 6, the inner diameter of the cooling hole (H2) may be substantially the same as the inner diameter of the water supply hole (H1).

[0145] According to another embodiment, the inner diameter of the cooling hole (H2) may be formed larger than the inner diameter of the water supply hole (H1). That is, the possibility of the cooling medium discharged through the water supply hole (H1) leaking out to a part other than the cooling hole (H2) can be minimized. According to the embodiment of the present invention, as the cooling medium flows directly into the battery cell (100) through the cooling hole (H2), a direct cooling effect may be achieved on the battery cell (100).

[0146] According to another embodiment, the inner diameter of the cooling hole (H2) may be formed to be smaller than the inner diameter of the water supply hole (H1). According to an embodiment of the present invention, as much cooling medium as possible can be directly introduced into the battery cell (100) through the cooling hole (H2). Therefore, the battery cell (100) can be cooled more quickly by the cooling medium.

[0147] Hereinafter, the present invention is described based on the provision of a module housing (110), and while the shape and structure of the module housing (110) may be designed and changed in various ways, the module housing (110) may be omitted as necessary.

[0148] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a venting hole (H3) may be formed on one side of the module housing (110). For example, a venting hole (H3) may be formed in the top plate (111) of the module housing (110). That is, the venting hole (H3) and the cooling hole (H2) may be formed on the same side of the module housing (110). In addition, the venting hole (H3) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple venting holes (H3) may be aligned in a horizontal direction.

[0149] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the venting hole (H3) may be configured to discharge the venting gas generated from the battery cell (100) to the outside of the module housing (110). Accordingly, the battery assembly (10) may be capable of directional venting in one direction through the venting hole (H3). For example, the battery assembly (10) may be capable of directional venting in an upward direction through the venting hole (H3).

[0150] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, high-temperature gas or dust generated in the battery cell (100) is discharged through the venting hole (H3), thereby minimizing the problem of water flow through the cooling hole (H2) being obstructed by the high-temperature gas or dust. Furthermore, by placing both the venting hole (H3) and the cooling hole (H2) on the upper part of the battery cell (100), gas discharge and cooling can be performed simultaneously, thereby slowing down the progression of thermal runaway and improving stability.

[0151] Alternatively, according to another embodiment, although not illustrated in the drawings, the venting hole (H3) and the cooling hole (H2) may be positioned on different sides of the module housing (110) relative to the battery cell (100). For instance, the venting hole (H3) may be provided on the lower surface of the module housing (110). Thus, the venting path and the cooling path of the battery assembly (10) can be separated. This allows both the venting performance and the cooling performance of the battery pack (1) to be improved.

[0152] FIG. 9 is a top view of a portion of a pack case according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0153] A partition wall (242) may be provided between the protrusions (241). The partition wall (242) may separate the protrusions (241) based on the X-axis. Accordingly, the receiving space (S) of the protrusions (241) may be divided into a first space (S1) and a second space (S2). Additionally, the first cooling furnace (320) may be divided into a first-1 cooling furnace (321) and a first-2 cooling furnace (322).

[0154] The first-1 cooling furnace (321) and the first-2 cooling furnace (322) may be arranged side by side. The first-1 cooling furnace (321) may correspond to the first laminate (100a), and the first-2 cooling furnace (322) may correspond to the second laminate (100b). Each can be cooled toward that side.

[0155] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the cooling path can be separated into two independent paths based on the X-axis so that cooling water can be discharged individually from each cooling path. Through this, efficient management of the cooling module (300) is possible.

[0156] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0157] The above cover frame (240) covers the upper part of the battery cell (100), and the protrusion (241) may protrude downward from the cover frame (240). For example, the upper surface of the cover frame (240) may be flat, and the lower surface of the cover frame (240) may have at least a portion protruding downward.

[0158] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, the rigidity of the battery pack (1) can be maintained by the protrusion (241) while the dead space can be reduced. Additionally, as it protrudes in a direction toward the battery cell (100) and the distance from the battery cell (100) is further reduced, cooling can proceed efficiently. Furthermore, by preventing high-temperature venting gas, etc. from being transferred into the space between the battery cell (100) and the cover frame (240), events caused by thermal runaway phenomena, such as fire or explosion, can be prevented or delayed.

[0159] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present invention, cut along line I-I' of FIG. 1.

[0160] The above cover frame (240) covers the upper part of the battery cell (100), and the protrusion (241) can protrude downward from the cover frame (240).

[0161] At this time, the cover frame (240) can be combined with the cross beam (230). Alternatively, the cover frame (240) can be formed integrally with the cross beam (230).

[0162] At this time, the water supply portion (260) of the cover frame (240) may be omitted, and the water supply hole (H1) may be formed on the lower surface of the cover frame (240). Additionally, the cover member (270) may be configured to cover the water supply hole (H1) of the cover frame (240). Accordingly, the second cooling furnace (330) may also be omitted.

[0163] According to the above embodiment of the present invention, it can be easily manufactured by being formed integrally with the cross beam (230). In addition, it can more effectively prevent high-temperature venting gas, etc. from being transferred into the space between the battery cell (100) and the cover frame (240).

[0164] In addition, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the water supply structure is omitted, so the structure can be further simplified.

[0165] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 13, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may include at least one battery pack (1) according to the present invention. When the battery pack (1) according to the present invention is mounted on a vehicle such as the vehicle (V) which uses electricity as an energy source, the vehicle's mileage relative to energy can be further increased.

[0167] The battery cell (100) according to the present invention can be applied to a vehicle such as an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. That is, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may include the battery cell (100) according to the present invention or the battery pack (1) 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 cell (100) or the battery pack (1). For example, the vehicle (V) according to the present invention may further include a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), in addition to the battery cell (100) according to the present invention. The vehicle (V) includes four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle (V) may operate by receiving power from the battery pack (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] 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; A pack case having a cover frame that accommodates the plurality of battery cells and covers one side of the battery cells; A battery pack comprising: a cooling tank filled with a cooling medium and connected to the cover frame; and a cooling module connected to the cooling tank and at least partially accommodated within the cover frame.

2. In Paragraph 1, A battery pack characterized by further comprising: a plurality of second cooling paths connected to the first cooling path and each extending toward the plurality of battery cells.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above cover frame has a protrusion that protrudes at least a portion of which has a receiving space formed inside, and A battery pack characterized in that the first cooling path is provided in the receiving space.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above cover frame covers the top of the battery cell, and A battery pack characterized by the above-mentioned protrusion protruding upward from the cover frame.

5. In Paragraph 3, The plurality of battery cells are grouped into at least one cell stack arranged in a first direction within the pack case, and The cell stack comprises a first stack and a second stack aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and A battery pack characterized in that the above-mentioned protrusion is formed to extend in the first direction and is disposed between the first laminate and the second laminate.

6. In Paragraph 3, The above cover frame further includes at least one water supply portion that extends from the protrusion toward the battery cell and is configured to open when a thermal event occurs in the battery cell. A battery pack characterized by the second cooling path being accommodated within the above-mentioned water supply section.

7. In Paragraph 6, A battery pack further comprising: a water injection hole formed to face the battery cell; and a cover member configured to cover the water injection hole.

8. In Paragraph 7, It further includes a plurality of module housings configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells grouped together, and A battery pack characterized in that the plurality of water supply units are each arranged to correspond to a plurality of module housings.

9. In Paragraph 8, A battery pack characterized in that the above module housing includes a cooling hole provided to face the above water supply hole.

10. In Paragraph 9, A battery pack characterized by further including a cooling plate covering the lower part of the battery cell.

11. In Paragraph 3, The above cover frame covers the top of the battery cell, and A battery pack characterized by the above-mentioned protrusion protruding downward from the cover frame.

12. In Paragraph 3, The above pack case further comprises a base frame configured to accommodate the plurality of battery cells, a side frame arranged to surround the battery cells, and a cross beam configured to partition the internal space of the pack case. A battery pack characterized by the above cover frame being combined with the above cross beam.

13. An automobile characterized by comprising at least one battery pack described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

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