KR20240074454A - Battery module with reinforced safety - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention discloses a battery module with an improved structure to effectively discharge venting gas, etc. A battery module according to one aspect of the present invention includes a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells stacked on each other; a module case storing the cell assembly in an internal space and having a venting hole; and a cover member configured to close the venting hole and open the venting hole by forming a partial step when venting gas is generated from the cell assembly.

Description

Battery module with reinforced safety}

The present invention relates to batteries, and more specifically, to battery modules with enhanced safety, battery packs and automobiles including the same.

As the demand for portable electronic products such as laptops, video cameras, and portable phones is rapidly increasing, and the commercialization of robots and electric vehicles is in full swing, research on high-performance secondary batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging is actively underway.

Currently commercialized secondary batteries include nickel cadmium batteries, nickel hydrogen batteries, nickel zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Among these, lithium secondary batteries have little memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries, so they can be freely charged and discharged. It is receiving attention for its extremely low self-discharge rate and high energy density.

The secondary battery includes an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate each coated with a positive electrode active material and a negative electrode active material are disposed with a separator in between, and an exterior material, that is, a battery case, that seals and stores the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte solution.

Generally, secondary batteries can be classified into can-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is built into a metal can and pouch-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is built in a pouch of an aluminum laminate sheet, depending on the shape of the exterior material.

Recently, secondary batteries have been 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 plurality of these secondary batteries can be electrically connected and stored together inside a module case to form one battery module. Additionally, multiple such battery modules can be connected to form one battery pack.

In the case of this type of battery module or battery pack, thermal events such as thermal runaway may occur in the battery cells contained within. When this abnormal event occurs, venting gas may be generated from the battery cell. At this time, the venting gas must be properly discharged to the outside, and if the venting gas is not discharged quickly, the battery module or battery pack may explode, causing a more serious problem. Additionally, because venting gas has a very high temperature and may contain flames or sparks, if the venting gas is not properly controlled, thermal runaway may occur in other surrounding battery cells or other battery modules. In this case, thermal runaway propagation between cells or between modules may occur or intensify. Moreover, since multiple battery cells or battery modules are crowded together in a small space, if venting gas or flames contained therein are not properly controlled, problems due to thermal runaway may become more serious.

In particular, battery packs or battery modules do not have sufficient empty space inside to increase energy density. For example, in a battery pack including one or more battery modules, the space between the module case and the pack case may be formed to be very narrow. Therefore, there is a need to provide a configuration that allows venting gas to be quickly and effectively discharged even in such a narrow space.

Therefore, the present invention was created to solve the above problems, and provides a battery module with an improved structure to effectively discharge gases or flames emitted from the inside, and a battery pack and automobile including the same. The purpose.

However, the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

A battery module according to an aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object includes a cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells stacked on each other; a module case storing the cell assembly in an internal space and having a venting hole; and a cover member configured to close the venting hole and open the venting hole by forming a partial step when venting gas is generated from the cell assembly.

Here, the venting hole may be formed on the upper side of the module case.

Additionally, the cover member may be formed in a sheet shape to surround the surface of the module case where the venting hole is formed.

Additionally, the cover member may be made of mica material.

Additionally, the cover member may include a main body attached to the module case, and a moving part configured to be spaced outwardly from the main body when the venting gas is generated.

Additionally, the moving part may be configured to be spaced apart from the main body part in a parallel state when the venting gas is generated.

Additionally, the cover member may further include a connecting portion connected between the main body portion and the moving portion.

Additionally, the cover member may have a fold line formed in advance at the connection portion.

Additionally, the connection part may be located in the central part of the moving part.

Additionally, the cover member may be configured to have a partially cut shape with respect to one sheet.

Additionally, the module case may be configured to have a plurality of venting holes formed, and the cover member may have cut lines formed for each of the plurality of venting holes, so that each venting hole is opened when the venting gas is generated.

Additionally, the cover member may have a first cut line and a second cut line spaced apart from the first cut line, corresponding to the venting hole.

Additionally, the first cut line and the second cut line each have two cut ends, and the cut end of the first cut line can be inserted between the two cut ends of the second cut line.

Additionally, a battery pack according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object includes a battery module according to the present invention.

In addition, a vehicle according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object includes a battery module or battery pack according to the present invention.

According to one aspect of the present invention, when venting gas or flame occurs in the internal space of the battery module, the venting gas or flame can be effectively discharged.

In particular, when the battery module is stored inside the pack case, even if the space between the battery module and the module case is narrow, a sufficient area for discharge of venting gas or flame can be secured.

Accordingly, venting gas or flames are quickly discharged to the outside, thereby effectively preventing explosion of the battery module.

Additionally, in order to secure a wide space for discharging venting gas or flame, etc., it is possible to prevent the energy density of the battery module or battery pack from deteriorating.

Additionally, according to one aspect of the present invention, under normal conditions, the venting hole may be closed.

Therefore, under normal conditions, external foreign substances can be prevented from flowing into the interior through the venting hole.

Additionally, it is possible to prevent venting gas discharged through some venting holes or flames or sparks contained in such venting gas from flowing into other venting holes. Therefore, the problem of thermal runaway being propagated to normal battery cells or battery modules by venting gas or flame can be prevented.

In addition, the present invention may have various other effects, and these will be described in each implementation configuration, or the description of effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art will be omitted.

The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention, and serve to further understand the technical idea of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention described later. Therefore, the present invention includes the matters described in such drawings. It should not be interpreted as limited to only .
1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a combined perspective view of the configuration of Figure 1.
3 and 4 are cross-sectional views schematically showing the opening and closing configuration of the cover member according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 is an enlarged view showing a partial configuration of a cover member according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration in which the cover member of FIG. 5 is partially deformed by venting gas.
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration in which a moving part is moved by venting gas in a cover member according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration in which venting gas is discharged around a venting hole in a cover member of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cover member according to another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of portion A5 of FIG. 10.
Figures 12 and 13 are perspective views schematically showing a configuration in which the separation distance between the moving part and the main body part is formed differently in the embodiment of Figure 10.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, the terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their usual or dictionary meanings, and the inventor should appropriately use the concept of terms to explain his or her invention in the best way. It must be interpreted as meaning and concept consistent with the technical idea of the present invention based on the principle of definability.

Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are only one of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not entirely represent the technical idea of the present invention, so at the time of filing the present application, various options that can replace them are available. It should be understood that equivalents and variations may exist.

Meanwhile, in this specification, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back may be used, but these terms are only for convenience of explanation, and may vary depending on the location of the target object or the location of the observer. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that changes may occur.

In addition, several embodiments may be included in this specification, and for each embodiment, detailed descriptions of parts to which the description of other embodiments can be applied in the same or similar manner will be omitted, and the description will focus on parts where there are differences.

1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, Figure 2 is a combined perspective view of the configuration of Figure 1.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the battery module according to the present invention includes a cell assembly 100, a module case 200, and a cover member 300.

The cell assembly 100 may include one or more battery cells 110. Here, each battery cell 110 may refer to a secondary battery. A secondary battery may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a battery case. In particular, the battery cell 110 provided in the cell assembly 100 may be a pouch-type secondary battery. However, other types of secondary batteries, such as cylindrical batteries or prismatic batteries, may also be employed in the cell assembly 100 of the present invention.

A plurality of secondary batteries may be stacked together to form the cell assembly 100. For example, a plurality of secondary batteries may be stacked in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction in the drawing) and arranged horizontally (Y-axis direction in the drawing). Each battery cell 110 may be provided with an electrode lead, and this electrode lead may be located at both ends of each battery cell 110 or at one end. A secondary battery with electrode leads protruding in both directions can be called a bidirectional cell, and a secondary battery with electrode leads protruding in one direction can be called a unidirectional cell. The present invention is not limited by the specific type or form of the secondary battery, and various types of secondary batteries known at the time of filing of the present invention may be employed in the cell assembly 100 of the present invention.

The module case 200 may be configured to have an empty space formed therein to accommodate the cell assembly 100 therein. For example, as shown in the drawing, the module case 200 includes a main body frame 210 formed in the form of a tube with both ends open, and an end frame 220 that covers the open portions at both ends of the main body frame 210. It can be provided. This type of body frame 210 is open at the front and rear, and may be provided with unit plates on the left, right, upper, and lower sides, respectively. Additionally, the left plate, right plate, upper plate, and lower plate may be formed in an integrated form, and this body frame 210 may also be referred to as a mono frame.

In addition, the module case 200 may be formed in various other forms. For example, the left plate, right plate, and bottom plate may be configured in an integrated form. At this time, the integrated case part may be referred to as a U-frame. Alternatively, the module case 200 may include a box-shaped lower case in which the left plate, right plate, front plate, and rear plate are integrated, and an upper cover that closes the upper open end of the lower case.

The module case 200 may have a venting hole H1 formed on at least one side, as indicated by H1 in FIG. 2 . The venting hole H1 may be configured so that, when venting gas is generated and ejected from the cell assembly 100 stored in the internal space, the generated venting gas can be discharged to the external space of the module case 200. For example, the module case 200 may be configured in a sealed form except for the venting hole H1. In addition, the venting hole H1 may be formed in a completely open form so as to penetrate the module case 200 in the inner and outer directions.

The cover member 300 may be configured to close the venting hole H1 formed in the module case 200 in a normal state. Additionally, when venting gas is generated from at least one battery cell 110 among the cell assemblies 100 stored inside the module case 200, the venting hole H1 may be opened.

In particular, the cover member 300 may be configured to open the venting hole H1 by forming a partial step. That is, when the venting hole H1 is opened by venting gas, the shape of the cover member 300 may be deformed and a step may be formed. This will be further explained with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

3 and 4 are cross-sectional views schematically showing the opening and closing configuration of the cover member 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figures 3 and 4 show an example of a cross-sectional configuration along line A1-A1' in Figure 2.

First, referring to FIG. 3, a cover member 300 is provided on the outer surface of the module case 200. At this time, the cover member 300 may be directly attached to the outer surface of the module case 200. Furthermore, the cover member 300 may be adhesively fixed to the module case 200. Additionally, the venting hole H1 of the module case 200 is closed by the cover member 300. In particular, in this case, since a part of the cover member 300, such as the portion indicated by E2, exists at the upper part of the venting hole (H1), material enters and exits between the inside and outside of the module case 200 through the venting hole (H1). can be blocked.

Next, referring to FIG. 4, when venting gas is generated from the cell assembly 100 located inside the module case 200, the internal pressure of the module case 200 increases, causing venting in the cover member 300. The E2 portion located outside the hole H1 may be pushed outward in the +Z-axis direction. In this case, the E2 portion of the cover member 300 may form a step with another portion, such as the E1 portion. In other words, the E2 portion is located outside the E1 portion, and it can be said that the E2 portion and the E1 portion form different stages.

And, by the step formed in this way, the venting hole H1 can be opened to the outside. That is, the E2 portion and the E1 portion may be spaced apart from each other, forming an empty space between them. In particular, as shown in FIG. 4, the E1 part is the first stage, and the E2 part is the second stage, and they can form a step from each other. And, during this step formation process, a cover hole H2 may be formed in the cover member 300, as indicated by H2. Furthermore, this cover hole (H2) may be formed at a location that communicates with the venting hole (H1).

According to this embodiment of the present invention, when the battery module is in a normal state, the venting hole H1 is closed by the cover member 300, so external foreign substances, such as moisture, enter the battery module through the venting hole H1. It can block dust, etc. from entering. Additionally, even if venting gas or flame is discharged from a specific battery module, such venting gas or flame can be prevented from flowing into other normal battery modules.

Additionally, according to this implementation configuration of the present invention, when venting gas is generated inside the module case 200, the generated venting gas can be quickly discharged to the outside. In particular, in the case of the present invention, the cover member 300 is deformed to form a partial step, so that the venting hole H1 can be opened, and at this time, a wide open area of the venting hole H1 can be secured. Therefore, the internal venting gas can be smoothly discharged to the outside through the venting hole H1. Therefore, problems such as explosion of the battery module or propagation of thermal runaway to other battery cells 110 inside due to venting gas or flame can be prevented.

Meanwhile, regarding the outside and inside in this specification, unless otherwise specified, the direction toward the center of the battery module for each component is referred to as the inside, and the direction toward the outside of the battery module is referred to as the outside.

The venting hole H1 may be formed on the upper side of the module case 200.

For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the module case 200 has a main body frame 210 in the form of a mono frame in which the upper plate, lower plate, left side plate, and right side plate are integrated, and the upper plate of the main body frame 210 A venting hole H1 may be formed in . This venting hole H1 may also be referred to as a top hole.

In this case, the cover member 300 may be formed to cover at least the upper plate of the main body frame 210. That is, the cover member 300 can close the venting hole H1 formed in the upper plate of the main body frame 210 by covering the upper plate of the main body frame 210 from the outside.

According to this implementation configuration of the present invention, venting gas, etc. can be discharged more smoothly. In particular, venting gas, flame, etc. have a very high temperature, so they tend to be directed to the upper side. Therefore, if the venting hole H1 is formed on the upper side of the module case 200, venting gas can be discharged to the outside more easily.

Additionally, the battery module may be provided with a module terminal, as indicated by T in FIG. 1. These module terminals (T) may be provided to electrically connect the cell assembly 100 inside the battery module and other external components. In particular, this module terminal (T) may be located on the front side of the battery module.

In this configuration, if the venting hole H1 is formed on the upper side of the module case 200, leakage of venting gas or flame in the direction where the module terminal T is located can be suppressed. Moreover, on the side where the module terminal T is located, other battery modules or electrical connection members may exist. Here, the electrical connection member may be a module bus bar connected to the module terminal (T) to electrically connect battery modules, or a pack bus bar for connecting the module terminal (T) with a pack terminal provided in the pack case. Therefore, when the venting hole H1 is formed on the upper side of the module case 200 as in the above embodiment, it is possible to prevent high-temperature venting gas or flame from being ejected to other battery modules or electrical connection members. . Therefore, problems such as thermal runaway propagation between modules or damage to electrical connection configurations can be minimized.

As shown in FIG. 1, the cover member 300 may be formed in a sheet shape. In addition, the cover member 300 may be configured in such a way that this sheet material surrounds the surface of the module case 200, particularly the side where the venting hole H1 is formed.

For example, referring to the exemplary configuration of FIGS. 1 and 2, when the venting hole H1 is formed in the upper plate of the module case 200, the cover member 300 composed of one sheet is attached to the module case 200. Among the various surfaces, it may be configured to cover at least the outside of the upper surface.

According to this implementation configuration of the present invention, the configuration of attaching to the module case 200 and closing the venting hole (H1) can be more easily implemented. Additionally, in this case, a cover member 300 that opens the venting hole H1 when venting gas is generated can be easily provided. Furthermore, in this case, while the cover member 300 is configured to open and close the venting hole H1 of the module case 200, an increase in the volume or weight of the battery module can be suppressed.

Furthermore, the sheet-shaped cover member 300 may be configured to cover not only the surface where the venting hole H1 is formed but also other surfaces in order to improve coupling with the module case 200. For example, the cover member 300 may be configured to cover not only the top plate of the module case 200 but also the left and right plates. In this case, the sheet-shaped cover member 300 may be configured to be bent along the external shape of the module case 200.

The cover member 300 may be made of mica material. In particular, the cover member 300 may be made only of mica material. Moreover, since the cover member 300 is configured in the form of a sheet, the cover member 300 may also be a mica sheet.

According to this embodiment of the present invention, when venting gas or flame is generated in the battery module or another battery module, the durability or shape of the cover member 300 can be secured to a certain level even at high temperatures. Additionally, in this case, excellent flame blocking performance can be maintained between the inside and outside of the battery module. In addition, according to this implementation configuration, it is easy to prepare the cover member 300 in the form of a sheet, and the configuration of forming a step by venting can also be easily achieved.

Figure 5 is an enlarged view showing a partial configuration of the cover member 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 5 may be an enlarged view of portion A2 of Figure 2. Additionally, FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration in which the cover member 300 of FIG. 5 is partially deformed by venting gas.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6 , the cover member 300 may include a main body portion 310 and a moving portion 320. Here, the main body 310 may be attached to the module case 200 from the cover member 300. In particular, the main body portion 310 can maintain its position even when venting gas is generated. For example, the main body 310 may be a mica sheet and attached to the upper surface of the module case 300. Also, the moving part 320 may be a part spaced outward from the main body 310 when venting gas is generated inside the module case 200. For example, when venting gas is generated, the moving unit 320 may move in the +Z-axis direction, as indicated by arrow C2 in FIG. 6 .

And, due to this movement, a difference occurs in the position of the moving part 320 and the main body 310 in the Z-axis direction, so that a step may be formed between the moving part 320 and the main body 310. Additionally, as indicated by arrow C2 in FIG. 6, as the moving part 320 moves, a cover hole H2 may be formed at the original location of the moving part 320. At this time, as shown in FIG. 4, the cover hole (H2) is in communication with the venting hole (H1) of the module case 200, and the venting gas inside the module case 200 flows through the venting hole (H1) and the cover. It may pass through the hole H2 and be discharged to the outside of the module case 200.

In this regard, referring to the implementation configuration of FIG. 4, the part indicated by E1 can be said to be the main body part 310, and the part indicated by E2 can be said to be the moving part 320. At this time, the moving part 320 indicated by E2 moves in the +Z-axis direction, and the venting hole H1 may be exposed to the outside through the cover hole H2.

According to this implementation configuration of the present invention, an external discharge configuration of venting gas can be easily implemented. In particular, in the above-mentioned configuration, as the moving part 320 is moved by the venting gas, the venting hole H1 is naturally opened to the outside, thereby enabling rapid discharge of the venting gas. Additionally, in a battery module in a normal state, the moving unit 320 closes the venting hole H1, thereby preventing external foreign substances from entering through the venting hole H1.

In particular, the moving unit 320 may be configured to be spaced apart from the main body 310 in a parallel state when venting gas is generated. This will be explained with additional reference to FIG. 7 .

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration in which the moving part 320 is moved by venting gas in the cover member 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, the cover member 300 in FIG. 7 can be said to represent an example of a cross-sectional configuration taken along line A3-A3' in FIG. 6. Moreover, in FIG. 7 , for convenience of explanation, it can be said that a configuration in which the moving unit 320 moves while the battery module is mounted inside the pack case (PC) is shown.

Referring to FIG. 7, the moving part 320 may move in the +Z-axis direction by venting gas and be spaced apart from the main body part 310. At this time, the moving part 320 and the main body 310 may have surfaces parallel to each other. In particular, the cover member 300 including the moving part 320 and the main body 310 may be formed as a whole in a sheet shape. Therefore, in a state in which venting gas is not generated, the moving part 320 and the main body part 310 are parallel, and in particular, can be located within one plane (X-Y plane). In addition, in the state where venting gas is generated, the moving part 320 moves in the +Z-axis direction, and even after moving, the moving part 320 has only a difference in position in the Z-axis direction from the main body 310. They can remain parallel to each other.

Furthermore, in this implementation configuration, the moving part 320, which is configured in the form of a flat plate, can be viewed as moving in a direction perpendicular to its surface. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 7, the surface of the moving part 320 can be said to be parallel to the X-Y plane, and the moving part 320 moves in the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the X-Y plane to move the main body ( 310), it can be said to be spaced away from it.

According to this implementation configuration of the present invention, the open area through which venting gas is discharged can be expanded. For example, when the moving part 320 is spaced apart from the main body 310, a wide open space is secured between the moving part 320 and the main body 310, such as the part indicated by D in FIG. 7. You can. In addition, the venting gas generated inside the module case 200 may be discharged to the outside of the module case 200 through the venting hole H1 and the cover hole H2 and through this open space D. .

In addition, according to this implementation configuration of the present invention, the moving part 320 is brought into close contact with the pack case (PC) as much as possible, so that the space for venting gas to be discharged can be further expanded. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, a pack case (PC), as indicated by PC, may be located outside the module case 200. At this time, the pack case (PC) and the module case 200 may be somewhat separated by a distance indicated by I. In terms of the energy density of the battery pack, the separation distance (I) between them is usually sufficient. In many cases, it is not formed and is formed briefly. At this time, as in the above embodiment, when the sheet-shaped moving part 320 is spaced apart from the main body part 310 in a parallel state, the moving part 320 can be brought into close contact with the inner surface of the pack case (PC) as much as possible. Accordingly, the venting gas discharge space as indicated by D can be expanded as much as possible.

And, according to the above-described implementation configuration, the venting gas can be prevented from being directed to the pack case (PC). For example, referring to the exemplary configuration of FIG. 7, the venting gas moves in the +Z-axis direction while passing through the cover hole H2, as indicated by arrows C3 and C3', and moves on the flat surface of the moving part 320. The movement direction in the X-axis direction can be bent by the inner surface. In this case, the venting direction of the venting gas leaving the moving unit 320 may not flow toward the pack case (PC), but may flow in a direction (X-axis direction) parallel to the inner surface of the pack case (PC). Accordingly, problems that occur when venting gas or flames are ejected directly toward the pack case (PC), such as problems in which the pack case (PC) is damaged or heated, can be suppressed.

Moreover, in the case of a battery pack for an automobile, the battery pack is located at the bottom of the vehicle body, and passengers of the vehicle can be located at the top of the battery pack. At this time, when the venting hole (H1) is located on the upper side of the module case 200, the venting gas is discharged to the upper side through the venting hole (H1), but the discharge direction of the venting hole (H1) is directed upward. If this happens, it may pose a threat to the safety of passengers. However, as in the above-mentioned configuration, even if venting gas or flame is discharged through the upper venting hole H1, the flow direction of the venting gas or flame exiting the venting hole H1 is bent at an approximately right angle and flows horizontally. If this happens, venting gas or flames may not be directed to the passenger side located on the upper side. Therefore, in this case, safety for passengers can be further improved.

Additionally, in the above-mentioned embodiment of the present invention, the cover member 300 may be configured so that venting gas exiting through the venting hole H1 is discharged in all directions around the venting hole H1. This will be described in more detail with additional reference to FIG. 8.

FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration in which venting gas is discharged around the venting hole H1 in the cover member 300 of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional configuration taken along line A4-A4' in FIG. 6, and can be said to show the state when venting gas is discharged.

Referring to FIG. 8 , the moving part 320 is spaced apart from the main body 310 to form a cover hole H2, which may open the venting hole H1 to the outside. At this time, the venting hole H1 may be open in four directions, such as the horizontal direction, forward, backward, left, and right. Therefore, when the venting gas is discharged, the venting gas can be discharged around the venting hole H1 in four directions, that is, in the directions indicated by arrows C41, C42, C43, and C44.

According to this implementation configuration of the present invention, more rapid and smooth discharge of venting gas may be possible. Accordingly, the explosion prevention effect of the battery module can be further improved.

Additionally, the cover member 300 may further include a connection portion 330, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 . Here, the connection part 330 may be a component that connects the main body part 310 and the moving part 320. That is, one end of the connection part 330 may be connected to the main body 310 side, and the other end of the connection part 330 may be connected to the moving part 320 side. In particular, the connection part 330 may serve to couple the moving part 320 and the main body 310 even when the moving part 320 is separated from the main body 310.

According to this implementation configuration of the present invention, even if venting gas is generated, the moving part 320 can be prevented from being completely separated from the main body part 310. Accordingly, the problem of the separated moving part 320 moving to a specific part of the battery module or battery pack and damaging the form or function of that part can be prevented. For example, the separated moving part 320 may block the gas discharge path provided in the pack case (PC) or may hit and damage electrical components. However, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the moving distance of the moving part 320 is limited and separation is prevented, so such a problem may not occur.

The connection portion 330 may be provided in multiple numbers in one moving portion 320. For example, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6, and 8, two connection parts 330 may be coupled to one moving part 320. At this time, the two connection parts 330 may be located on opposite sides of one moving part 320. For example, two connection parts 330 may be provided at the left end and the right end of one moving part 320, respectively.

FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a cover member 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 9 can be said to be a modified example of the implementation structure of FIG. 5.

Referring to FIG. 9, the cover member 300 may have fold lines formed in advance at the connecting portion 330, as indicated by F1 and F2. Here, the meaning of 'pre-formed' may mean that the moving part 320 is formed before it is separated from the main body 310. That is, the implementation configuration of FIG. 9 is a case where the moving part 320 is placed on the same plane as the main body 310 before the venting gas is generated, and at this time, the end of the connecting part 330 has a fold line F1, F2) may be formed. These fold lines F1 and F2 may be formed by intentionally performing a folding process one or more times during the manufacturing process of the cover member 300, or may be formed through a configuration such as a notch or concave portion.

Fold lines F1 and F2 may be formed at the ends of the connection portion 330. In particular, fold lines F1 and F2 may be formed at both ends of the connection portion 330, respectively. That is, as shown in FIG. 9, one end of the connection part 330 may be connected to the main body 310, and a fold line as indicated by F1 may be formed at the end connected to the main body 310. Additionally, the other end of the connecting part 330 may be connected to the moving part 320, and a fold line as indicated by F2 may be formed at the end connected to the moving part 320.

According to this implementation configuration of the present invention, when the moving part 320 is separated from the main body 310 due to the generation of venting gas, the folded portion can be set in advance. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a step formation configuration due to the spacing of the moving parts 320 can be formed more easily.

In particular, according to this implementation configuration, the moving distance of the moving unit 320 can be made clear. Therefore, when the moving part 320 moves, damage to both ends of the connecting part 330 can be prevented. Also, in this case, when the moving part 320 is spaced apart from the main body 310, it may be more advantageous to maintain a parallel state between the moving part 320 and the main body 310.

The connection part 330 may be located in the central part of the moving part 320. Here, the central part does not mean only the point located exactly at the center of the moving unit 320, but may mean parts other than the edges. For example, referring to the exemplary configuration of FIG. 7, the moving unit 320 may be formed to extend long in the front-back direction (X-axis direction). At this time, the connection part 330 may not be located at the front or rear edge of the moving part 320, but may be located at the center in the longitudinal direction (forward-backward direction).

According to this embodiment of the present invention, the connection part 330 is not located too biased toward a specific end of the moving part 320, so the moving part 320 is spaced apart from the main body part 310 in a parallel state. It can be advantageous. For example, referring to the implementation configuration of FIG. 7, when venting gas is discharged through the venting hole (H1) and the cover hole (H2), the venting gas is discharged to the lower surface of the moving part 320, and the moving part ( 320) may receive pressure from the venting gas at both the front side and the rear side, centered on the connection portion 330. That is, venting gas can be discharged from the front side lower surface of the moving part 320 as indicated by C3, and venting gas can be discharged from the rear lower surface of the moving part 320 as indicated by C3'. . Therefore, the moving part 320 can receive the ejection pressure of the venting gas from the entire surface in the front-back direction (X-axis direction), so as shown in FIG. 7, the moving part 320 is parallel to the main body 310. It is easy to fall into one form. Accordingly, this embodiment may be more advantageous in quickly and smoothly discharging venting gas.

Additionally, the cover member 300 may be configured to be partially cut out of the sheet. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the cover member 300 is composed of one sheet, but this sheet member is partially cut, so that the opening and closing configuration of the venting hole H1 according to the present invention is It can be provided. In particular, the sheet member basically constitutes the main body 310, but through this partial cut configuration, the moving part 320 and the connecting part 330 can be provided.

According to this embodiment of the present invention, the cover member 300 that opens and closes the venting hole H1 can be easily prepared. In particular, when the cover member 300 is configured in the form of a sheet, the main body portion 310, the moving portion 320, the connecting portion 330, etc. are easily prepared by partially cutting the sheet material with a sharp tool such as a knife. It can be. Moreover, this cut configuration can be easily applied even when the cover member 300 is formed in the form of a mica sheet.

In addition, according to this embodiment of the present invention, the cover member 300 is not thick, so it can be advantageous in reducing the volume of the battery module. Moreover, this implementation configuration can be easily adopted in a state where the thickness of the moving part 320 is not thick, so when the moving part 320 is spaced apart from the main body part 310, the venting gas discharge space is wider. can be secured.

As shown in FIG. 1, the module case 200 may be formed with a plurality of venting holes H1. For example, a plurality of venting holes H1 may be formed on the top side of the main body frame 210 of the module case 200.

At this time, the cover member 300 may be configured with a cut line formed for each of the plurality of venting holes H1. That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the cover member 300 is formed as a single sheet member, but when attached to the upper part of the module case 200, a corresponding cut line is positioned for each venting hole H1. It can be configured to do so. Also, when venting gas is generated inside the module case 200, each venting hole H1 can be divided and opened by the corresponding cut line. For example, in the cover member 300, incision lines of the form shown in FIG. 5 may be formed at positions corresponding to each venting hole H1. As a more specific example, when 12 venting holes H1 are formed as top holes in the module case 200, the cover member 300 attached to the top of the module case 200 also has a cut configuration as shown in FIG. These 12 can be formed.

According to this embodiment of the present invention, a corresponding venting opening/closing configuration may be separately provided for each venting hole (H1). In particular, for each venting hole H1, a corresponding moving part 320 may be separately provided. Therefore, when venting gas is generated, more rapid and smooth discharge may be possible. Additionally, according to the above-mentioned configuration, in one battery module, the venting hole H1 can be partially opened. Therefore, it is possible to prevent venting gas or flames discharged to the outside through the open venting hole (H1) from flowing back into another venting hole (H1) of the battery module. Accordingly, problems such as thermal runaway propagation between cells within one battery module can be prevented.

As shown in FIG. 5, the cover member 300 may be provided with a first cut line L1 and a second cut line L2. Here, the first cut line L1 and the second cut line L2 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other. Additionally, the first cut line L1 and the second cut line L2 may be formed to correspond to each venting hole H1. That is, the first cutting line L1 and the second cutting line L2 may form one cutting line set, and a corresponding cutting line set may be provided for each venting hole H1. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 1, when 12 venting holes H1 are formed on the upper side of the module case 200, the cover member 300 attached to the upper side of the module case 200 has 12 venting holes H1. A set of incision lines, that is, 12 first incision lines L1 and 12 second incision lines L2, may be provided.

According to this embodiment of the present invention, a step configuration for opening and closing the venting hole H1 through two cutting lines, that is, the first cutting line L1 and the second cutting line L2, is formed in the cover member 300. ) can be easily provided. In particular, the first cut line L1 and the second cut line L2 may form a boundary between the main body 310 and the moving part 320, and the main body 310 and the connection part 330. . Moreover, a partial connection configuration between the moving part 320 and the main body 310, that is, a connecting part 330 configuration, will be provided through the spaced apart portions of the first cutting line L1 and the second cutting line L2. You can.

In the above-mentioned configuration, the first cut line L1 and the second cut line L2 may each have two cut ends. For example, referring to the exemplary configuration of FIG. 5, the first cut line L1 is formed in an elongated shape and may have two cut ends, such as the portion indicated by LE1. Additionally, the two cut ends LE1 of the first cut line L1 may not be connected to each other and may be spaced apart. In addition, the second cut line L2 is also formed in an elongated shape and has two cut ends, as shown in the portion indicated by LE2, and these two cut ends LE2 may not be connected to each other.

Here, one cut end, that is, the first cut end LE1 of the first cut line L1, may be inserted between the second cut ends LE2 of the second cut line L2. For example, referring to the implementation configuration of FIG. 5 , the first cutting line L1 may be located substantially forward (-X-axis direction) than the second cutting line L2. However, the first cut end LE1 of the first cut line L1 may be located rearward (+X-axis direction) than the second cut end LE2 of the second cut line L2.

According to this implementation configuration, the previously described connecting portion 330 is formed in the center of the moving portion 320, or the moving portion 320 is spaced apart from the main body portion 310 in a parallel manner. It can be easily implemented.

Additionally, in the above embodiment, the separation distance between the moving part 320 and the main body 310 may be determined depending on the degree of insertion of the first cut end LE1. Therefore, considering the space between the module case 200 and the pack case (PC) as indicated by I in FIG. 7, the insertion depth of the first cut end (LE1) with respect to the second cut end (LE2) is set. You can.

Figure 10 is a perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a cover member 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of portion A5 of FIG. 10. 12 and 13 are perspective views schematically showing a configuration in which the separation distance between the moving unit 320 and the main body 310 is formed differently in the exemplary configuration of FIG. 10.

First, referring to FIGS. 10 and 11 , the cover member 300 can distinguish the main body 310, the moving part 320, and the connecting part 330 from each other through the cut line. At this time, at least some of the cut lines of the cover member 300 may be configured in the form of a dashed line. For example, the first cut line L1 and the second cut line L2 are generally formed in a long and extended form, but may not be completely continuously extended as a whole, but may be discontinuously extended. More specifically, one or more non-cut discontinuous portions may be provided in the first cut line L1 and the second cut line L2, such as the portions indicated by K1 and K2. In particular, these discontinuous portions K1 and K2 may be provided on the connection portion 330 side.

According to this implementation configuration, the separation distance between the moving unit 320 and the main body 310 may vary depending on the situation. In particular, when venting gas is discharged, the moving part 320 may be separated from the main body 310, and the separation distance between the moving part 320 and the main body 310 may vary depending on the discharge pressure of the venting gas. You can.

In this configuration of the cover member 300, when the venting gas is discharged, the moving part 320 moves upward (+Z-axis direction) to open the venting hole H1. At this time, if the discharge pressure of the venting gas is lower than a certain level, for example, the first reference pressure, the upward movement distance may be limited by the first discontinuity as indicated by K1. Therefore, in this case, the moving part 320 and the main body part 310 may be spaced apart to the extent shown in FIG. 12 .

And, if the exhaust pressure of the venting gas is higher than this, the first discontinuous portion K1 may be broken. For example, when the second reference pressure is set higher than the first reference pressure, if the discharge pressure of the venting gas is higher than the first reference pressure and lower than the second reference pressure, the first discontinuity K1 is broken, and the 2 Discontinuity K2 can be maintained. In this case, the moving part 320 and the main body part 310 may be spaced apart to the extent shown in FIG. 13 . In particular, in the exemplary configuration shown in FIG. 13, it can be said that the separation distance between the moving unit 320 and the main body 310 is formed to be longer compared to the exemplary configuration shown in FIG. 12. At this time, since a larger amount of venting gas can be discharged, it is possible to respond more appropriately to a situation where the discharge pressure of the venting gas has increased.

In addition, although not shown in a separate drawing, when the discharge pressure of the venting gas becomes higher, for example, when it becomes higher than the second reference pressure, the second discontinuity K2 may also be broken. In this case, the moving part 320 can be spaced further away from the main body 310, so more venting gas can be discharged.

Accordingly, in this implementation configuration, the moving distance of the moving member can be set to an appropriate level in response to the situation of the battery module, particularly the degree of venting gas discharge. That is, the step height for opening the venting hole H1 can be formed separately for each step. For example, when a small amount of venting gas is generated, a one-stage venting configuration in which the first discontinuity K1 is maintained can be formed as shown in FIG. 12. And, when a medium amount of venting gas is generated, as shown in FIG. 13, a two-stage venting configuration in which the first discontinuity K1 is broken and the second discontinuity K2 is maintained can be formed. Lastly, when a large amount of venting gas is generated, a three-stage venting configuration in which even the second discontinuous portion K2 is fractured may be formed. At this time, it can be said that from step 1 to step 2 to step 3, the step between the moving part 320 and the main body 310 becomes larger. Therefore, according to the above implementation configuration, a more flexible and adaptive response may be possible depending on the venting situation of the battery module.

Additionally, as in the previous embodiment, in an embodiment in which the connection portion 330 is provided with discontinuous portions K1 and K2, folding lines may be provided in advance at the discontinuous portions K1 and K2. In this implementation configuration, it can be said that the fold line is provided not only at the ends of the connecting portion but also at the central portion. For example, referring to FIG. 11, first discontinuous portions K1 are provided on the left and right sides of one connection portion 330, and in the portion where the first discontinuous portion K1 is provided, F3 As indicated, a fold line may be provided. This fold line (F3) may have a shape extending long in the direction between the two first discontinuous portions (K1).

In this case, as shown in FIG. 12, a spaced configuration between the moving part 320 and the main body 310, such as a parallel configuration, can be better formed. Additionally, in the embodiment of FIG. 10, a fold line may also be provided on the second discontinuous portion K2. In this case, the separation configuration between the moving part 320 and the main body 310, as shown in FIG. 13, can be well formed as intended.

The battery pack according to the present invention may include one or more battery modules according to the present invention described above. In particular, in order to increase capacity and/or output, the battery pack according to the present invention may include a plurality of battery modules according to the present invention. At this time, various configurations described above may be applied to each battery module. For example, each battery module may include a cell assembly 100, a module case 200, and a cover member 300. And, these multiple battery modules can be accommodated inside a pack case (PC). Moreover, in the case of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, even if another battery module is located on the front or rear side, thermal runaway propagation between modules can be effectively prevented.

The battery pack according to the present invention includes various other components in addition to the battery module or pack case (PC), such as a BMS (Battery Management System), busbar, relay, current sensor, fuse, etc., known at the time of filing of the present invention. Components of the battery pack may be further included in the internal space of the pack case (PC).

The battery module according to the present invention or the battery pack according to the present invention can be applied to automobiles such as electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles. That is, the vehicle according to the present invention may include a battery module according to the present invention or a battery pack according to the present invention. Additionally, the vehicle according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the vehicle in addition to the battery module or battery pack. For example, the vehicle according to the present invention may further include a control device such as a vehicle body, a motor, or an electronic control unit (ECU), in addition to the battery module according to the present invention.

Additionally, the battery module according to the present invention or the battery pack according to the present invention can be applied to an energy storage system (ESS). That is, the energy storage system according to the present invention may include a battery module according to the present invention or a battery pack according to the present invention.

As described above, although the present invention has been described with limited examples and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the technical idea of the present invention and the following will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Of course, various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of equivalence of the patent claims to be described.

100: Cell assembly
110: battery cell
200: module case
210: body frame
220: end frame
300: Cover member
310: main body
320: moving part
330: connection part
H1: venting hole
H2: Cover hole
T: module terminal
PC: pack case
L1: first incision line, L2: second incision line
K1: first discontinuity, K2: second discontinuity

Claims (15)

A cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells stacked on each other;
a module case storing the cell assembly in an internal space and having a venting hole; and
A cover member configured to close the venting hole and open the venting hole by forming a partial step when venting gas is generated from the cell assembly.
A battery module comprising: According to paragraph 1,
The battery module, characterized in that the venting hole is formed on the upper side of the module case. According to paragraph 1,
The cover member is formed in the form of a sheet, and is configured to surround the surface of the module case where the venting hole is formed. According to paragraph 3,
A battery module, wherein the cover member is made of a mica material. According to paragraph 1,
The cover member is a battery module, characterized in that it has a main body attached to the module case, and a moving part configured to be spaced outwardly from the main body when the venting gas is generated. According to clause 5,
The battery module, wherein the moving part is configured to be spaced apart from the main body part in a parallel state when the venting gas is generated. According to clause 5,
The cover member is a battery module characterized in that it further includes a connection portion connected between the main body portion and the moving portion. In clause 7,
The cover member is a battery module, characterized in that a fold line is pre-formed at the connection portion. According to clause 8,
The battery module, characterized in that the connection part is located in the central part of the moving part. According to paragraph 1,
The cover member is a battery module, characterized in that it is configured in a partially cut form with respect to one sheet. According to clause 10,
The module case is formed with a plurality of venting holes,
The cover member is a battery module characterized in that the cutting line is formed at each of the plurality of venting holes so that each venting hole is opened when the venting gas is generated. According to clause 10,
The cover member is a battery module, characterized in that, corresponding to the venting hole, a first cut line and a second cut line are formed in a form spaced apart from the first cut line. According to clause 12,
The first incision line and the second incision line each have two incision ends,
A battery module, characterized in that the cut end of the first cut line is inserted between the two cut ends of the second cut line. A battery pack comprising the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 13. A vehicle comprising the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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