KR20240102750A - Immersion cooling battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is an immersion-cooled battery module, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle.
An immersion-cooled battery module according to an aspect of the present invention includes a battery assembly including a plurality of battery units; a module case extending in a first direction, having an opening at at least one end in the first direction, and accommodating the battery assembly in an internal space connected to the opening; and at least one of an inlet for introducing coolant into the interior space and an outlet for discharging coolant flowing into the interior space to the outside of the module case, and includes a sealing cover that airtightly covers the opening.

Description

Immersion cooling battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including same}

This application is accompanied by a priority claim based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0185077 filed on December 26, 2022, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the patent application are used in this application.

The present invention relates to a battery module, a battery pack including the same, and a vehicle. More specifically, it relates to a battery module having a plurality of chargeable and dischargeable battery cells, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery module.

Generally, secondary batteries refer to batteries that can be repeatedly charged and discharged, such as lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. A battery cell, which is the most basic secondary battery, can provide an output voltage of approximately 2.5V to 4.2V.

Recently, these secondary batteries have been applied to devices or systems that require high output voltage and large charging capacity, such as electric vehicles or ESS (Energy Storage Systems), and many battery cells are densely placed in limited spaces. Battery modules connected in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel, or battery packs in which these battery modules are densely arranged and connected in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel. (battery pack) is widely used. In order for a battery module or battery pack, in which a large number of battery cells are densely arranged in such a limited space, to operate normally, the temperature of the battery cells must be properly maintained.

However, as disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2019-0053574, the existing technology cools the battery cells using a heat sink 300 that contacts only the lower edge portion of the battery cells. Therefore, these existing technologies have problems in that cooling performance for battery cells is poor and it is difficult to prevent thermal runaway occurring in battery cells. In addition, because these existing technologies cannot control fires that occur when thermal runaway of a battery cell occurs, it is difficult to prevent sequential thermal runaway of other battery cells or other battery modules around the battery cell in which thermal runaway occurred.

In addition, as disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0048855, the existing technology for cooling battery cells embedded in a battery module using insulating oil includes a case 200 for housing the battery cell stack 100, 300) is provided for each battery cell stack, and insulating oil is supplied and discharged through independent pipes (500, 600, and 700) for each case (200 and 300). Therefore, these existing technologies require a lot of space to install insulating oil pipes, which not only increases the manufacturing cost of the battery pack containing the battery module, but also increases the overall volume and weight of the battery pack, reducing energy density. There is a problem that arises.

The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to improve the cooling performance of the battery module to prevent thermal runaway or serial thermal runaway of the battery cells included in the battery module, while minimizing the increase in volume and weight occupied by the battery module to reduce energy consumption. The aim is to provide an immersion-cooled battery module that can improve density, and a battery pack and vehicle including the same.

An immersion-cooled battery module according to an aspect of the present invention includes a battery assembly including a plurality of battery units; a module case extending in a first direction, having an opening at at least one end in the first direction, and accommodating the battery assembly in an internal space connected to the opening; and at least one of an inlet for introducing coolant into the internal space and an outlet for discharging coolant flowing into the internal space to the outside of the module case, and includes a sealing cover that airtightly covers the opening, wherein the plurality of The battery units each include a pair of battery cells arranged side by side in the first direction; an insulating block disposed between the pair of battery cells; and a connection member coupled to the insulating block and electrically connected to electrode leads of the pair of battery cells.

In one embodiment, each of the pair of battery cells may be provided with electrode leads at both ends in the first direction.

In one embodiment, the plurality of battery units may be stacked on each other in a second direction crossing the first direction, with plate-shaped cooling fins or insulating pads interposed therebetween.

In one embodiment, the battery assembly includes a plurality of unit stacks formed by stacking two or more battery units among the plurality of battery units with the cooling fins interposed therebetween, and the plurality of unit stacks include: They may be configured to be stacked on each other with the insulating pad interposed therebetween.

In one embodiment, the insulating block includes a coupling groove configured to insert and couple the connecting member; and a pair of slots that communicate with the inner space of the coupling groove and are configured to insert electrode leads of the pair of battery cells.

In one embodiment, the insulating block may include an opening configured to open the inner space of the coupling groove and allow at least a portion of the connecting member coupled to the coupling groove to contact coolant.

In one embodiment, the insulating block may have a coolant channel provided on one surface in contact with the inner surface of the module case to provide a passage for the coolant to move.

In one embodiment, the battery assembly may include a circuit board configured to sense electrical signals related to battery cells included in the plurality of battery units.

In one embodiment, the insulating block may be provided with a support portion that supports the circuit board so that the circuit board is positioned spaced apart from the battery cells and allows the coolant to move between the circuit board and the battery cells. there is.

In one embodiment, the connecting member includes a main body electrically connected to electrode leads of the pair of battery cells; and an extension part that extends from one end of the main body and is inserted into a via hole provided in the circuit board, and is electrically connected to the circuit board.

In one embodiment, the battery assembly includes a pair of side plates each in close contact with both ends of the plurality of battery units stacked in a second direction in the second direction, each of the pair of side plates comprising: It may include a first opening provided at one end in contact with the inner surface of the module case to provide a coolant movement passage.

In one embodiment, at least one of the pair of side plates may include a second opening that exposes a surface of a battery cell included in an adjacent battery unit among the plurality of battery units and makes contact with a cooling liquid.

In one embodiment, the immersion-cooled battery module may further include an end cover that has a through hole through which the inlet or outlet of the sealing cover passes and is coupled to the opening to cover the opening.

In one embodiment, the cooling liquid may include insulation oil or dielectric liquid.

A battery pack according to another aspect of the present invention may include an immersion-cooled battery module according to any one of the above-described embodiments.

A vehicle according to another aspect of the present invention may include an immersion-cooled battery module according to any one of the above-described embodiments.

According to the present invention, the battery cells accommodated inside the module case of the battery module are cooled through direct contact with the coolant flowing into the module case, thereby forming a battery such as a thermal pad or heat sink. Not only can cell cooling means be omitted, but battery cell cooling performance can be improved and thermal runaway of battery cells can be effectively prevented.

In addition, in the event of a fire due to thermal runaway of a battery cell, the coolant charged inside the module case functions as a fire extinguishing agent, causing chain heating of other battery cells or other battery modules around the battery cell in which thermal runaway occurred. Runaway can be prevented.

In addition, a pair of battery cells are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell with an insulating block in between to form a battery unit, and a plurality of battery units are stacked in the thickness direction of the battery cell to form a unit stack. The unit stacks are stacked again in the thickness direction to form a battery module with a length more than twice that of the corresponding battery cell, thereby reducing the number of battery modules included in the battery pack, and in each battery module The cooling liquid can be moved smoothly along the length direction. As a result, in a battery pack containing multiple battery modules, the space occupied by the inlet and outlet provided for each battery module and the space occupied by the piping required to supply and recover cooling fluid to each battery module are reduced. This not only reduces the manufacturing cost of the battery pack, but also reduces the overall volume and weight of the battery pack, and improves the energy density of the battery pack.

In addition, the insulating blocks included in the mutually stacked battery units support the connecting member connected to the electrode lead of the battery cell and are configured to bring the connecting member into contact with the cooling liquid, so that the electrode of the battery cell generates relatively high heat. The cooling effect on the reed part can be improved.

Additionally, since the insulating blocks are provided with a coolant channel that provides a passage for the coolant, circulation of the coolant can be facilitated and battery cell cooling performance can be further improved.

In addition, one of the plurality of circuit boards that senses the electrical signals of the battery cells inside the battery module transmits the electrical signals sensed by itself and the electrical signals sensed by the remaining circuit boards through one waterproof connector. By delivering it to the outside, electrical connection between the battery module and an external electrical device can be facilitated, and the wiring structure of the battery pack including a plurality of battery modules can be simplified.

In addition, the waterproof connector is coupled to a sealing cover provided with an inlet or outlet and placed in a space secured to connect the inlet or outlet to the pipe, thereby enabling electrical connection of the waterproof connector within the battery pack. There is no need to secure space, and the electrical connection work of the waterproof connector can be facilitated.

In addition, the inner edge of the end cover is inserted and coupled between the wall portion of the sealing cover and the opening edge of the module case, and the opening edge of the module case is inserted and coupled between the inner edge and the outer edge of the end cover, thereby forming a meander. A sealing structure is formed, and as a result, the risk of leakage of coolant flowing into the battery module can be minimized.

In addition, the sealing tape, liquid sealant, and structural adhesive applied to the sealing structure triple-block leakage of coolant, thereby improving the durability and safety of the immersion-cooled battery module.

Furthermore, those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to easily understand from the following description that various embodiments according to the present invention can solve various technical problems not mentioned above.

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an immersion-cooled battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the immersion-cooled battery module shown in FIG. 1.
Figure 3 is a diagram showing a battery assembly accommodated in a module case of an immersion-cooled battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a battery unit included in the battery assembly shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an insulating block and a connecting member of the battery unit shown in FIG. 4.
Figure 6 is a diagram showing a unit stack including a plurality of battery units.
Figure 7 is a diagram showing a battery stack including a plurality of unit stacks.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 1.
Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the first sealing cover of an immersion-cooled battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the first sealing cover coupled to the module case.
Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the first end cover of an immersion-cooled battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line SS′ of the first end cover shown in FIG. 11.
Figure 13 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the first end cover coupled to the module case.
Figure 14 is an enlarged view showing part A2 of Figure 13.
Figure 15 is a diagram showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 16 is a diagram showing a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings to clarify solutions corresponding to the technical problems of the present invention. However, when explaining the present invention, if the description of related known technology rather obscures the gist of the present invention, the description may be omitted.

Additionally, the terms used in this specification are terms defined in consideration of the functions in the present invention, and may vary depending on the intention or custom of the designer, manufacturer, etc. Therefore, definitions of terms described below should be made based on the content throughout this specification.

For reference, the components of the present invention shown in the accompanying drawings may be partially or entirely reduced, enlarged, omitted, or simplified to facilitate technical understanding.

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an immersion-cooled battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 2, the immersion-cooled battery module 10 shown in FIG. 1 is shown in an exploded perspective view.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention cools the battery cells accommodated in the internal space of the module case 100 by directly contacting them with a cooling liquid. It is composed of: To this end, the battery module 10 may include a module case 100, a battery assembly 200, a sealing cover 110, 110', a waterproof connector 120, and an end cover 130, 130'.

The module case 100 extends in a first direction (Y-axis direction) and has an opening at at least one end in the first direction, and is configured to accommodate the battery assembly 200 in an internal space connected to the opening. For example, the module case 100 may be configured in the form of a tube having an internal space extending in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery module and openings at both ends of the longitudinal direction.

This module case 100 may be made of a metal material with a certain strength. Additionally, the module case 100 may be formed as one piece through extrusion molding or sheet metal processing to prevent leakage of coolant.

The battery assembly 200 includes a plurality of battery cells and can be accommodated in the internal space of the module case 100. As will be explained again below, this battery assembly 200 includes battery units stacked in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery module, and a circuit board that senses electrical signals from battery cells included in these battery units. It can be included.

The sealing covers 110 and 110' have an inlet 112 that allows coolant to flow into the inner space of the module case 100, and discharges the coolant flowing into the inner space to the outside of the module case 100. The module has at least one outlet 112', and can be inserted into an opening of the module case 100 to cover the opening airtightly.

These sealing covers 110 and 110' include a first sealing cover 110 that has an inlet 112 and covers one end of the opening of the module case 100, an outlet 112', and a first sealing cover 110 that covers one end of the opening of the module case 100. ) may include a second sealing cover 110' that covers the other end opening. In this case, high voltage (HV) terminals 114 and 114' that provide the output of the battery module 10 and a waterproof connector 120 may be disposed on the first sealing cover 110.

The waterproof connector 120 is coupled to and supported by the first sealing cover 110, and is electrically connected to the circuit boards of the battery assembly 200 to transmit electrical signals sensed by the circuit board to the module case ( 100) may be configured to be delivered to the outside.

The end covers 130 and 130' may be configured to be coupled to an opening of the module case 100 into which the sealing covers 110 and 110' are inserted and combined to cover the opening. These end covers 130 and 130' cover the first end cover 130, which covers one end opening where the first sealing cover 110 is inserted, and the other end opening where the second sealing cover 110' is coupled. It may include a second end cover 130'.

The cooling liquid applied to the present invention may include insulation oil or dielectric liquid with a high withstand voltage. For example, the coolant may contain one or two or more of trioctyl phosphate (TOP), tributyl phosphate (TOB), triphenyl phosphate, trimethyl phosphate, and tripropyl phosphate.

In one modified embodiment, the modified module case accommodating the battery assembly 200 may be configured to have an opening only at one end in the longitudinal direction and to have the other end in the longitudinal direction closed. Additionally, the modified sealing cover that covers and seals the opening of the modified module case may be configured to have both an inlet and an outlet.

According to this modified embodiment, components corresponding to the second sealing cover 110' and the second end cover 130' shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 may be omitted. In this case, the coolant flowing in through the inlet of the modified sealing cover may be circulated in the internal space of the modified module case, cool the battery cells, and then be discharged through the outlet of the modified sealing cover.

As such, according to the present invention, the battery cells accommodated in the module case 100 of the battery module 10 are cooled through direct contact with the cooling liquid introduced into the module case 100, thereby forming a thermal pad. Battery cell cooling means, such as a heat sink, can be omitted, battery cell cooling performance can be improved, and thermal runaway of the battery cell can be effectively prevented.

Additionally, in the event of a fire due to thermal runaway of a battery cell, the coolant charged inside the module case functions as a fire extinguishing agent, preventing chain thermal runaway of other battery cells or other battery modules around the battery cell in which thermal runaway occurred. can do.

Figure 3 shows a battery assembly 200 accommodated in a module case of an immersion-cooled battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3, the battery assembly 200 includes a plurality of battery units (BU). Additionally, each battery unit (BU) may include a pair of battery cells 210, an insulating block 220, and a connection member 230.

The pair of battery cells 210 may be arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cell. Additionally, each battery cell 210 may be provided with electrode leads 212 at both ends in the longitudinal direction. These battery cells 210 may be implemented as various types of secondary batteries. For example, the battery cell 210 may be implemented as a pouch-type secondary battery, a prismatic secondary battery, or a cylindrical secondary battery.

The insulating block 220 is made of an insulating and heat-resistant material and can be placed between the pair of battery cells 210.

The connecting member 230 may be coupled to the insulating block 220 and electrically connected to the electrode leads of the pair of battery cells 210, respectively.

As will be described again below, a plurality of battery units BU may be stacked on each other in the thickness direction of the battery cell (X-axis direction) with plate-shaped cooling fins or insulating pads interposed therebetween.

In one embodiment, the battery assembly 200 may include a pair of side plates 240 that are in close contact with both ends of the battery units stacked in the thickness direction (X-axis direction) and support the battery units. You can.

Each side plate 240 may include a first opening 240a provided at a lower end in contact with the inner surface (bottom surface) of the module case 100 and providing a coolant movement passage. In this case, the first opening 240a may include a concave groove formed from the bottom of the side plate 240 toward the center.

In addition, at least one of the pair of side plates 240 has a second opening 240b that exposes the surface of a battery cell included in an adjacent battery unit among the plurality of battery units BU and contacts the cooling liquid. It can be included. For example, the second opening 240b may include a through hole exposing the surface of an adjacent battery cell.

Of course, the structure and shape of the first opening 240a and the second opening 240b may vary depending on the embodiment.

In one embodiment, the battery assembly 200 may include a bus bar frame 250 disposed at both ends of the battery stack in which a plurality of battery units (BU) are stacked in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction). .

The bus bar frame 250 is configured to support at least one bus bar 252 that electrically connects the electrode lead of a battery cell forming a battery unit (BU) to the electrode lead of another battery cell or the terminal of a battery module. You can.

In one embodiment, the battery assembly 200 may include a circuit board 260 disposed above the battery units and configured to sense electrical signals related to battery cells included in the battery units.

In this case, the circuit board 260 may include first to third circuit boards 262, 264, and 266.

The first circuit board 262 may be disposed on an upper part of the insulating block 220 and electrically connected to the connection member 230 coupled to the insulating block 220 . To this end, the first circuit board 262 may be provided with a via hole 262a into which the end of the connecting member 230 is inserted. The end of the connecting member 230 inserted into the via hole 262a may be fixed to the first circuit board 262 by soldering. This first circuit board 262 may include a printed circuit board (PCB).

The second circuit board 264 is disposed on one side of the first circuit board 262 and is configured to sense a first electrical signal related to the first group of battery cells among the battery cells included in the battery assembly 200. You can. The first electrical signal may include an electrical signal representing the output voltage, output current, or charging state of the first group of battery cells.

The third circuit board 266 is disposed on the other side of the first circuit board 262 and is configured to sense a second electrical signal related to the second group of battery cells among the battery cells included in the battery assembly 200. You can. The second electrical signal may include an electrical signal representing the output voltage, output current, or charging state of the second group of battery cells.

These second and third circuit boards 264 and 266 may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

In addition, the second circuit board 264 is configured to collect the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal sensed by the third circuit board 266 and transmit it to the outside through the waterproof connector 120. It can be.

Generally, the length of a battery module corresponds to the length of the battery cells constituting the battery module. However, since the immersion-cooled battery module 10 according to the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells arranged side by side in its longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction), it is more suitable than a typical battery module including battery cells of the same size as the present invention. It has more than twice the length. For example, if a typical battery module is manufactured to have a length of about 500 mm to 610 mm, the immersion-cooled battery module 10 according to the present invention can be manufactured to have a length of 1000 mm or more.

FIG. 4 shows a battery unit (BU) included in the battery assembly shown in FIG. 3 .

As shown in FIG. 4, the battery unit BU may include a pair of battery cells 210, an insulating block 220, and a connecting member 230.

The pair of battery cells 210 may be arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery cell. Additionally, each battery cell 210 may be provided with electrode leads 212 at both ends in the longitudinal direction. These battery cells 210 may be implemented as various types of secondary batteries. For example, the battery cell 210 may be implemented as a pouch-type secondary battery, a prismatic secondary battery, or a cylindrical secondary battery.

The insulating block 220 is made of an insulating and heat-resistant material and can be placed between the pair of battery cells 210.

The connecting member 230 may be coupled to the insulating block 220 and electrically connected to the electrode leads of the pair of battery cells 210, respectively.

FIG. 5 shows an insulating block 220 and a connecting member 230 of the battery unit shown in FIG. 4 .

As shown in FIG. 5, the insulating block 220 has a coupling groove 222 configured to be inserted and coupled to the connecting member 230, and communicates with the inner space of this coupling groove 222 and is a pair of battery cells. It may be provided with a pair of slots 224 into which the electrode leads 210 are respectively inserted.

In addition, the insulating block 220 has an opening 226 configured to open the inner space of the coupling groove 222 and bring at least a portion of the connecting member 230 coupled to the coupling groove 222 into contact with the coolant. It can be provided.

That is, the connecting member 230 is inserted into and coupled to the coupling groove 222 of the insulating block 220, and the electrode lead 212 of the battery cell 210 is inserted into the slot 224 of the insulating block 220. It can be electrically connected to the connection member 230. In this case, the opening 226 of the insulating block 220 may provide a work space necessary for welding the electrode lead 212 to the connecting member 230.

In this way, the insulating block 220 is configured to support the connecting member 230 connected to the electrode leads of the battery cells and bring the connecting member 230 into contact with the cooling liquid, so that the battery cell generates relatively high heat. The cooling effect on the electrode lead portion can be increased.

In one embodiment, the insulating block 220 is provided on one surface in contact with the inner surface of the module case 100 accommodating the battery assembly 200 and has a coolant channel 228 that provides a passage for the coolant to move. can do. In this case, the coolant channel 228 may be provided on the bottom surface of the insulating block 220 in contact with the bottom surface of the module case 100. Additionally, the coolant channel 228 may be configured to communicate with the opening portion 226.

As a result, the coolant flowing into the opening 226 of the insulating block 220 can quickly move through the coolant channel 228 after cooling the connection member 230 and the electrode lead 212.

In one embodiment, the insulating block 220 may be provided with a support portion 228a that supports the first circuit board 262 at its upper end. This support portion 228a supports the first circuit board 262 so that the first circuit board 262 is positioned spaced apart from the battery cells, so that the coolant moves between the first circuit board 262 and the battery cells. can do.

In this way, the insulating block 220 is provided with a coolant channel 228 and a support portion 228a that provide a passage for the coolant, thereby facilitating the circulation of the coolant and further improving the cooling performance of the battery cell. .

Meanwhile, the connecting member 230 extends upward (in the Z-axis direction) from the top of the main body 232 and the main body 232, which is electrically connected to the electrode leads of the battery cells, to form a first circuit board ( It may include an extension portion 234 inserted into the via hole 262a provided in 262). The extension portion 234 of the connecting member 230 inserted into the via hole 262a may be fixed to the first circuit board 262 through soldering.

Figure 6 shows a unit stack (US) including a plurality of battery units.

Figure 7 shows a battery stack (BS) including a plurality of unit stacks.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the battery assembly 200 includes a plurality of battery units in the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cell with a plate-shaped cooling fin 242 or an insulating pad 244 in between. It may include battery stacks (BS) stacked with each other.

First, as shown in FIG. 6, the unit stack US may be composed of two or more battery units BU1 and BU2 stacked with each other with a cooling fin 242 in between.

In this case, the cooling fins 242 may be made of a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the cooling fins 242 may be made of metal material. Additionally, the cooling fin 242 may include an opening 242a provided at a position corresponding to the coolant channel 228 of the above-described insulating block 220 and providing a passage for the coolant to move. In this case, the opening portion 242a may include a groove concavely formed from the bottom of the cooling fin 242 that contacts the bottom of the module case 100 toward the center.

Next, as shown in FIG. 7 , the battery stack BS may be formed by stacking two or more unit stacks US1 and US2 with an insulating pad 244 interposed therebetween.

In this case, the insulating pad 244 may be made of a material with high insulating properties. For example, the insulating pad 244 may be made of a material containing one or two or more of rubber, ceramic, and polymer synthetic resin. Additionally, the insulating pad 244 may include an opening 244a provided at a position corresponding to the coolant channel 228 of the above-described insulating block 220 and providing a coolant movement passage. In this case, the opening portion 244a may include a concave groove formed from the bottom of the insulating pad 244 in contact with the bottom of the module case 100 toward the center.

Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' in Figure 1.

As shown in FIG. 8, each insulating block 220 accommodated in the internal space of the module case 100 not only supports the connection member 230 that is electrically connected to the electrode lead 212 of the battery cell. , may be configured to support the first circuit board 262 that is electrically connected to the connecting member 230.

As described above, the extension portion 234 of the connecting member 230 may extend upward and be inserted into the via hole 262a of the first circuit board 262.

A space for movement of coolant may be provided between the insulating block 220 and the first circuit board 262. The coolant C flowing between the insulating block 220 and the first circuit board 262 contacts the electrode lead 212 and the connecting member 230 through the opening 226 of the insulating block 220. After cooling the electrode lead 212 and the connecting member 230, the coolant channel 228 of the insulating block 220, the opening portion 242a of the cooling fin 242, and the opening portion 244a of the insulating pad 244 ) and can be moved through a movement passage provided by the opening 240a of the side plate 240 and discharged to the outside of the battery module 10.

In one embodiment, the module case 100 protrudes from its inner surface to support the insulating block 220, thereby including a stopper 102 configured to limit movement of the insulating block 220. . In this case, the stopper 102 may be located within the coolant channel 228 of the insulating block 220 and configured to contact the inner surface of the coolant channel 228. This stopper 102 can prevent the position of the insulating block 220 from changing due to vibration or external force applied to the battery module 10.

Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the first sealing cover 110 of an immersion-cooled battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 9, the first sealing cover 110 has an inlet 112 that allows coolant to flow into the internal space of the module case 100, and is inserted into the opening of the module case 100 to fill the opening. It can be configured to cover confidentially. To this end, the first sealing cover 110 may include a cover part 110a, a fixing part 110b, and a wall part 110c.

The cover portion 110a may have its edge aligned with the opening of the module case 100 and may be configured to be inserted into the opening.

The fixing part 110b protrudes toward the inner space from the first surface of the first sealing cover 110 (e.g., the first surface of the cover part 110a) adjacent to the inner space of the module case 100. , the border may be configured to be attached and fixed to the inner surface of the module case 100. To this end, a double-sided adhesive sealing tape may be attached to the edge of the fixing part 110b facing the inner surface of the module case 100.

The wall portion 110c corresponds to the opposite side of the first side and faces the first end cover 130, the second side of the first sealing cover 110 (e.g., the second side of the cover portion 110a). 2 side) and may be configured to face the opening edge of the module case 100 forming the opening at a predetermined distance. In this case, the wall portion 110c may be configured in a loop shape that circles the edge of the cover portion 110a.

As will be explained again below, the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110, together with the edge portion of the cover portion 110a and the opening edge of the module case 100, forms a first insertion groove. You can. The inner edge of the end cover 130, which will be described later, may be inserted and coupled to this first insertion groove.

Meanwhile, on the second side of the first sealing cover 110, HV (High Voltage) terminals 114 and 114' that provide the output of the battery module 10 and a waterproof connector 120 may be disposed. there is. In this case, the waterproof connector 120 may be fixed to the first sealing cover 110 by a fastening member 120a such as a bolt.

In Figure 10, the first sealing cover 110 coupled to the module case 100 is shown in a vertical cross-sectional view.

As shown in FIG. 10, the first sealing cover 110 has an inlet 112 that allows coolant to flow into the internal space of the module case 100, and is inserted into an opening at one end of the module case 100 to be inserted into the opening. can be covered confidentially.

To this end, the cover portion 110a of the first sealing cover 110 may be configured so that its edge matches the opening of the module case 100.

The fixing part 110b of the first sealing cover 110 protrudes from the first surface of the cover part 110a toward the inner space of the module case 100, and its edge is on the inner surface of the module case 100. It is attached and fixed to.

To this end, a double-sided adhesive sealing tape 118a may be attached to the edge of the fixing part 110b facing the inner surface of the module case 100. In this case, the sealing tape 118a may have a multi-layer structure in which an adhesive layer is provided on both sides of a base layer made of a waterproof material.

for example. The base layer of the sealing tape 118a may include one or two or more material layers composed of one or two or more of polyimide, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate. there is. Additionally, the adhesive layer of the sealing tape 118a may be composed of one or two or more of poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA), poly ethyl methacrylate (PEMA), and poly butyl methacrylate (PBMA).

Additionally, the sealing tape 118a may further include release paper covering the adhesive layer. This release paper can be removed by the operator immediately before attaching the sealing tape 118a.

The wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110 is located on the second side of the first sealing cover 110, which is the opposite side of the first side adjacent to the inner space of the module case 100, and the module case ( It may be configured to protrude in a direction away from the internal space of the 100 and face the opening edge of the module case 100 forming the opening at a predetermined distance. As previously mentioned, the wall portion 110c may be configured in a loop shape that circumnavigates the edge of the cover portion 110a.

The wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110, along with the edge portion of the cover portion 110a and the inner surface of the module case 100 forming the perimeter of the opening, have a first insertion groove G1. can be formed. Liquid sealant 118b, such as sealing glue, may be applied to the inner surface of the first insertion groove G1.

Additionally, structural adhesive 104 with high shear strength may be applied to the outer surface of the opening edge of the module case 100. This structural adhesive 104 may include a polymer alloy adhesive or a polyimide adhesive. As will be explained again below, the outer edge of the first end cover 130, which will be described later, may be attached and fixed to the outer surface of the opening edge to which the structural adhesive 104 is applied.

Meanwhile, the first sealing cover 110 may have a through hole 116 into which at least a portion of the waterproof connector 120 is inserted.

Additionally, the waterproof connector 120 may include a connector body 122, a contact pin 124, and a connection pin 126.

The connector body 122 is comprised of a first surface of the first sealing cover 110 adjacent to the internal space of the module case 100 and a second surface of the first sealing cover 110 that is opposite to the first surface. , It may be coupled to the second surface and configured to cover the opening of the through hole 116 formed on the second surface. The connector body 122 of the waterproof connector 120 may be made of an insulating polymer synthetic resin and may be fixed to the first sealing cover 110 by a fastening member such as a bolt.

In one embodiment, the waterproof connector 120 is a sealing member ( 122a) may further be included. In this case, the sealing member 122a may include a sealant, a gasket, or both.

The contact pin 124 is supported by the connector body 122 and may be configured to extend in a direction away from the internal space of the module case 100. This contact pin 124 may be electrically connected by contacting a corresponding contact pin of a corresponding connector (not shown) connected to the waterproof connector 120. For this purpose, the contact pin 124 may be made of a conductive metal material. The waterproof connector 120 may include one or two or more such contact pins 124.

The connection pin 126 is electrically connected to the contact pin 124 and extends from the connector body 122 to the inner space of the module case 100 through the through hole 116, thereby forming the module case 100. It may be configured to be electrically connected to the first circuit board 240 among the plurality of circuit boards 240 and 250 accommodated in . For this purpose, the connection pin 126 may be made of a conductive metal material. The waterproof connector 120 may include one or two or more such connection pins 126.

In one embodiment, the contact pin 124 and the connection pin 126 may be formed as one body. Additionally, in one embodiment, the connector body 122 may be formed integrally with the contact pin 124 and the connection pin 126 through an insert molding process.

Meanwhile, the battery module 10 may further include a connection circuit board 128 and a cable 128a for electrical connection between the waterproof connector 120 and the first circuit board 240.

In this case, the connection circuit board 128 is coupled to the first surface of the first sealing cover 110 adjacent to the inner space of the module case 100, and forms the through hole 116 on the first surface. It covers the other end opening and may be configured to be electrically connected to the connection pin 126. To this end, the connection circuit board 128 may be provided with a via hole into which the connection pin 126 is inserted. The connection pin 126 inserted into the via hole of the connection circuit board 128 may be fixed to the connection circuit board 128 through a soldering process.

The cable 128a may be configured such that one end is electrically connected to the connection circuit board 128 and the other end is electrically connected to the second circuit board 264. This cable 128a may include a Flat Flexible Cable (FFC). In this way, the second circuit board 264 connected to the cable 128a may be electrically connected to the bus bar 252 connected to the electrode lead of the battery cell 210. In this case, the bus bar 252 may be coupled to and fixed to the bus bar frame 250.

For reference, as described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the second sealing cover 110' covering the other end opening of the module case 100 blocks the coolant flowing into the internal space of the module case 100. It is provided with an outlet 112' for discharging, and can be inserted into the other end opening to airtightly cover the other end opening. To this end, the second sealing cover 110' may include components corresponding to the cover portion 110a, the fixing portion 110b, and the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110, respectively. However, components corresponding to the HV terminals 114 and 114' or the waterproof connector 120 are not disposed on the second sealing cover 110'.

Figure 11 shows a perspective view of the first end cover 130 of an immersion-cooled battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 9, the first end cover 130 may be coupled to an opening of the module case 100 into which the first sealing cover 110 is inserted, and may be configured to cover the opening. This first end cover 130 has an inlet hole 132 through which the inlet 112 of the first sealing cover 110 passes, and a connector hole 138 into which at least a portion of the waterproof connector 120 is inserted and exposed to the outside. ) can be provided.

In addition, the first end cover 130 has terminal holes 134 and 134' through which the HV terminals 114 and 114' disposed on the first sealing cover 110 pass, and these terminal holes 134, Support parts 136 and 136' may be further provided to support ends of the HV terminals 114 and 114' extending outwards through 134'.

FIG. 12 shows a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of the first end cover shown in FIG. 11.

As shown in FIG. 12, the first end cover 130 may have a cap structure that covers the opening of the module case 100 into which the first sealing cover 110 is inserted. In addition, at least a portion of the edge portion of the first end cover 130 may be configured to be inserted and coupled between the opening edge of the module case 100 and the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110. In this case, the first end cover 130 may include a body covering the opening, and an inner edge 130a and an outer edge 130b extending from the body.

The inner edge 130a extends from the body of the first end cover 130 to the inner space of the module case 100, forming the opening edge of the module case 100 and the wall portion of the first sealing cover 110 ( 110c) can be inserted between. That is, the inner edge 130a may be configured to be inserted into the first insertion groove G1 formed by the opening edge of the module case 100, the edge portion of the first sealing cover 110, and the wall portion 110c. there is.

The outer edge 130b may extend toward the outer surface of the module case 100 and be attached to a portion of the outer surface to which the structural adhesive 104 is applied.

Additionally, the inner edge 130a and the outer edge 130b may be spaced apart from each other at a predetermined distance to form a second insertion groove G2 into which the opening edge of the module case 100 is inserted.

In Figure 13, the first end cover 130 coupled to the module case 100 is shown in a vertical cross-sectional view.

As shown in FIG. 13, the inner edge 130a of the first end cover 130 extends from the body of the first end cover 130 toward the inner space of the module case 100, forming the module case 100. It may be inserted between the opening edge of and the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110. That is, the inner edge 130a may be configured to be inserted into the first insertion groove G1 formed by the opening edge of the module case 100, the edge portion of the first sealing cover 110, and the wall portion 110c. there is.

Additionally, the outer edge 130b of the first end cover 130 may extend toward the outer surface of the module case 100 and be attached to a portion of the outer surface to which the structural adhesive is applied.

Additionally, the opening edge of the module case 100 may be inserted and coupled between the inner edge 130a and the outer edge 130b of the first end cover 130. That is, the opening edge of the module case 100 may be inserted and coupled to the second insertion groove G2 formed between the inner edge 130a and the outer edge 130b.

Meanwhile, the distal end of the waterproof connector 120 may be supported by being inserted into the connector hole 138 of the first end cover 130.

FIG. 14 shows an enlarged view of portion M1 of FIG. 13.

As shown in FIG. 14, the inner edge 130a of the first end cover 130 extends toward the inner space of the module case 100, and is connected to the opening edge 100a of the module case 100 and the first seal. It may be inserted into and coupled to the first insertion hole G1 formed between the wall portion 110c of the cover 110 and the cover 110. In this case, the first insertion hole G1 may be filled with liquid sealant 118b. As a result, the liquid sealant 118b may be interposed between the inner edge 130a of the first end cover 130 and the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110. Additionally, the liquid sealant 118b may be interposed between the inner edge 130a of the first end cover 130 and the opening edge 100a of the module case 100.

The outer edge 130b of the first end cover 130 may extend toward the outer surface of the opening edge 100a and be attached to the outer surface of the opening edge 100a to which the structural adhesive 104 is applied.

Meanwhile, the opening edge 100a of the module case 100 can be inserted into and coupled to the second insertion groove formed between the inner edge 130a and the outer edge 130b of the first end cover 130. As a result, the liquid sealant 118b is interposed between the inner edge 130a and the inner surface of the opening edge 100a, while the structural adhesive (118b) is interposed between the outer edge 130b and the outer surface of the opening edge 100a. 104) may be included.

In this way, the inner edge 130a of the first end cover 130 is inserted and coupled between the wall portion 110c of the first sealing cover 110 and the opening edge 100a of the module case 100, and the module The opening edge 100a of the case 100 is inserted between the inner edge 130a and the outer edge 130b of the first end cover 130 to form a meander-shaped sealing structure, and as a result, The risk of leakage of coolant flowing into the battery module 10 can be minimized.

In addition, the sealing tape 118a, liquid sealant 118b, and structural adhesive 104 applied to the sealing structure of the battery module 10 triple-block leakage of coolant, thereby increasing the durability of the immersion-cooled battery module 10. and safety can be improved.

For reference, as described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the second end cover 130' covering the other end opening of the module case 100 together with the second sealing cover 110' is the second seal. It has an outlet hole through which the outlet 112' of the cover 110' passes, and can cover the other end opening into which the second sealing cover 110' is inserted. To this end, the second end cover 130' may include components corresponding to the inner edge 130a and the outer edge 130b of the first end cover 130. On the other hand, the second end cover 130' does not include components corresponding to the terminal holes 134 and 134' or the connector hole 138 of the first end cover 130.

Figure 15 shows a battery pack 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 15, the battery pack 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a battery module 10 according to the present invention, and a pack that accommodates one or two or more of these battery modules 10. Cases 22 and 24 may be included. The pack cases 22 and 24 may have a plurality of seating spaces for accommodating and seating a plurality of battery modules.

In addition, the battery pack 20 may further include a supply pipe 26 for supplying coolant to the battery module 10 and a recovery pipe 28 for recovering coolant discharged from the battery module 10. . Although not shown in FIG. 15, the battery pack 20 includes a coolant tank that stores coolant, a pump that circulates the coolant stored in the coolant tank through the supply pipe 26 and the return pipe 28, and recovery pipe 28. It may further include a chiller that removes heat from the coolant.

In addition, the battery pack 20 controls the charging and discharging operation of the battery module 10 accommodated in the pack cases 22 and 24, or monitors SOC (State Of Charge), SOH (State Of Health), etc. Various electrical components (not shown) may further be included. These electronic components can be accommodated in the pack cases 22 and 24 together with the battery module 10.

Figure 16 shows a vehicle 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 16, the vehicle 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes one or two or more battery modules 10 according to any one of the various embodiments described above. , may include at least one battery pack 20 including such a battery module 10.

In this way, the battery module 10 or battery pack 20 applied to the vehicle 2 can provide electrical energy required for various operations of the vehicle 2.

For reference, it goes without saying that the battery module according to the present invention can be applied to ESS (Energy Storage System) and various electrical devices in addition to automobiles.

As described above, according to the present invention, the battery cells accommodated inside the module case of the battery module are cooled through direct contact with the coolant flowing into the module case, thereby forming a thermal pad or heat sink. Not only can battery cell cooling means such as a sink) be omitted, but battery cell cooling performance can be improved and thermal runaway of the battery cell can be effectively prevented.

In addition, in the event of a fire due to thermal runaway of a battery cell, the coolant charged inside the module case functions as a fire extinguishing agent, causing chain heating of other battery cells or other battery modules around the battery cell in which thermal runaway occurred. Runaway can be prevented.

In addition, a pair of battery cells are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell with an insulating block in between to form a battery unit, and a plurality of battery units are stacked in the thickness direction of the battery cell to form a unit stack. The unit stacks are stacked again in the thickness direction to form a battery module with a length more than twice that of the corresponding battery cell, thereby reducing the number of battery modules included in the battery pack, and in each battery module The cooling liquid can be moved smoothly along the length direction. As a result, in a battery pack containing multiple battery modules, the space occupied by the inlet and outlet provided for each battery module and the space occupied by the piping required to supply and recover cooling fluid to each battery module are reduced. This not only reduces the manufacturing cost of the battery pack, but also reduces the overall volume and weight of the battery pack, and improves the energy density of the battery pack.

In addition, the insulating blocks included in the mutually stacked battery units support the connecting member connected to the electrode lead of the battery cell and are configured to bring the connecting member into contact with the cooling liquid, so that the electrode of the battery cell generates relatively high heat. The cooling effect on the reed part can be improved.

Additionally, since the insulating blocks are provided with a coolant channel that provides a passage for the coolant, circulation of the coolant can be facilitated and battery cell cooling performance can be further improved.

In addition, one of the plurality of circuit boards that senses the electrical signals of the battery cells inside the battery module transmits the electrical signals sensed by itself and the electrical signals sensed by the remaining circuit boards through one waterproof connector. By delivering it to the outside, electrical connection between the battery module and an external electrical device can be facilitated, and the wiring structure of the battery pack including a plurality of battery modules can be simplified.

In addition, the waterproof connector is coupled to a sealing cover provided with an inlet or outlet and placed in a space secured to connect the inlet or outlet to the pipe, thereby enabling electrical connection of the waterproof connector within the battery pack. There is no need to secure space, and the electrical connection work of the waterproof connector can be facilitated.

In addition, the inner edge of the end cover is inserted and coupled between the wall portion of the sealing cover and the opening edge of the module case, and the opening edge of the module case is inserted and coupled between the inner edge and the outer edge of the end cover, thereby forming a meander. A sealing structure is formed, and as a result, the risk of leakage of coolant flowing into the battery module can be minimized.

In addition, the sealing tape, liquid sealant, and structural adhesive applied to the sealing structure triple-block leakage of coolant, thereby improving the durability and safety of the immersion-cooled battery module.

Furthermore, of course, the embodiments according to the present invention can solve various technical problems other than those mentioned in this specification in the relevant technical field as well as related technical fields.

So far, the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will clearly understand that various modified embodiments can be implemented within the technical scope of the present invention. Therefore, the previously disclosed embodiments should be considered from an explanatory perspective rather than a limiting perspective. In other words, the scope of the true technical idea of the present invention is shown in the claims, and all differences within the scope of equivalents should be construed as being included in the present invention.

10: Battery module 20: Battery pack
100: module case 110: first ceiling cover
110': Second sealing cover 120: Waterproof connector
130: first end cover 140: second end cover
200: battery assembly 210: battery cell
220: insulation block 230: connection member
240: side plate 242: cooling fin
244: insulation pad 250: busbar frame
260: circuit board

Claims (14)

A battery assembly including a plurality of battery units;
a module case extending in a first direction, having an opening at at least one end in the first direction, and accommodating the battery assembly in an internal space connected to the opening; and
It has at least one of an inlet for introducing coolant into the internal space and an outlet for discharging coolant flowing into the internal space to the outside of the module case, and includes a sealing cover that airtightly covers the opening,
Each of the plurality of battery units,
a pair of battery cells arranged side by side in the first direction;
an insulating block disposed between the pair of battery cells; and
A immersion-cooled battery module comprising a connection member coupled to the insulating block and electrically connected to electrode leads of the pair of battery cells. According to paragraph 1,
An immersion-cooled battery module, wherein each of the pair of battery cells has electrode leads provided at both ends in the first direction. According to paragraph 1,
An immersion type battery module, wherein the plurality of battery units are stacked on each other in a second direction with plate-shaped cooling fins or insulating pads interposed therebetween. According to paragraph 3,
The battery assembly includes a plurality of unit stacks in which two or more battery units among the plurality of battery units are stacked with the cooling fins interposed therebetween,
An immersion type battery module, wherein the plurality of unit stacks included in the battery assembly are configured to be stacked on each other with the insulating pad interposed therebetween. According to paragraph 1,
The insulating block is,
a coupling groove configured to insert and couple the connecting member; and
A immersion-cooled battery module, characterized in that it communicates with the inner space of the coupling groove and has a pair of slots configured to insert electrode leads of the pair of battery cells. According to clause 5,
The insulating block further includes an opening portion configured to open an interior space of the coupling groove to bring at least a portion of the connecting member coupled to the coupling groove into contact with a cooling liquid. According to paragraph 1,
The insulating block is an immersion-cooled battery module, characterized in that it has a coolant channel provided on one surface in contact with the inner surface of the module case to provide a passage for the coolant to move. According to paragraph 1,
The battery assembly further includes a circuit board configured to sense electrical signals related to battery cells included in the plurality of battery units. According to clause 8,
The insulating block supports the circuit board so that the circuit board is positioned spaced apart from the battery cells, and includes a support portion that allows the coolant to move between the circuit board and the battery cells. module. According to clause 8,
The connecting member is,
a main body electrically connected to electrode leads of the pair of battery cells; and
An immersion-cooled battery module comprising an extension part extending from one end of the main body, inserted into a via hole provided in the circuit board, and electrically connected to the circuit board. According to paragraph 1,
The battery assembly includes a pair of side plates each in close contact with both ends of the plurality of battery units stacked in the second direction,
An immersion-cooled battery module, wherein each of the pair of side plates includes a first opening provided at one end in contact with the inner surface of the module case to provide a coolant movement passage. According to clause 11,
At least one of the pair of side plates further includes a second opening that exposes a surface of a battery cell included in an adjacent battery unit among the plurality of battery units and makes contact with a cooling liquid. A battery pack comprising the immersion-cooled battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12. A vehicle comprising an immersed cooled battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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