Valve assembly and housing comprising a valve assembly

Abstract

A valve assembly is disclosed comprising: a first part mountable to a fluid port of a panel and comprising a first opening for allowing fluid to enter the first part from a first side of the panel and a second opening for allowing fluid to flow out of the first part through the fluid port to a second side of the panel; a second part disposed within the first part and configured to seal the second opening when in a first position within the first part; a deformable member disposed within the first part; and a resilient member biased to move the second part to a second position within the first part so as to provide a fluid flow path from the first opening to the second opening. When in an initial state, the deformable member is arranged to hold the second part in the first position. On contact with a liquid within the first part, at least a portion of the deformable member is configured to deform so as to enable the resilient member to move the second part to the second position.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a valve assembly, a housing including the valve assembly, and a battery pack including the valve assembly. Background Technology

[0002] In housings that require cooling of liquid-sensitive components (such as electric vehicle battery packs), coolant lines containing coolant fluid typically run from a pump on the "wet" side of the housing to the "dry" side. The dry side of the housing is typically where liquid-sensitive components (such as battery cells and battery management control systems) are housed. If coolant fluid leaks from the coolant lines into the battery housing, the accumulation of coolant fluid can pose a serious fire hazard, and therefore it is crucial to remove the coolant fluid from the internal compartments of the housing as soon as possible.

[0003] It is known to use gels to absorb coolant water leaking from coolant pipes. However, these gels cannot remove water from the casing, thus still posing a risk of serious fire due to water on the dry side of the battery pack.

[0004] Existing valves, typically used for draining from the casing, remain open, thus failing to prevent fluid from entering the dry side of the battery pack.

[0005] This invention attempts to solve at least some of these problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] From a first aspect, the present invention provides a valve assembly comprising: a first portion mountable to a fluid port of a panel, including a first opening for allowing fluid to enter the first portion from a first side of the panel, and a second opening for allowing fluid to flow out of the first portion through the fluid port to a second side of the panel; a second portion disposed within the first portion and configured to seal the second opening when in a first position within the first portion; a deformable member disposed within the first portion; and an elastic member biased to move the second portion to a second position within the first portion to provide a fluid flow path from the first opening to the second opening. When in an initial state, the deformable member is arranged to hold the second portion in the first position, and upon contact with liquid within the first portion, at least a portion of the deformable member is configured to deform such that the elastic member can move the second portion to the second position.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention provides a self-starting discharge valve that can discharge liquid from one side of the panel without user intervention and without the need for separate liquid detection and user notification.

[0008] Deformable components may include synthetic polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA, PVOH). Deformable components may include foam structures. In some cases, deformable components include, for example, polyvinyl alcohol foam. This advantageously reacts in a desired manner with water and / or a mixture of water and ethylene glycol (a suitable coolant liquid).

[0009] The first part may include a cap or closure, which may be flame-retardant and / or may accommodate a deformable member. The deformable member may be configured to soften or at least partially dissolve upon contact with a liquid. This advantageously provides a deformable member that changes its material properties upon reaction with a coolant liquid in order to deform in a desired manner.

[0010] A deformable member can be disposed between the first and second portions. An elastic member can be biased to move the second portion toward the deformable member. A biasing member or elastic member is one example of a biasing device. An elastic biasing member is another example of a biasing device. A compression spring is an example of an elastic member.

[0011] The first part may include a bayonet connector adapted to engage with the fluid port of the panel.

[0012] The first part may include a resilient deformable arm arranged to engage a lip of the panel on a first side of the panel to secure the first part within the fluid port. This advantageously requires only that the user press the valve assembly into the fluid port to secure the valve assembly to the panel. A resilient barb is an example of a resilient deformable arm.

[0013] The valve assembly may include a first resiliently deformable member, which preferably includes two sealing lips fixed to the first portion, preferably on the flange-like portion of the first portion, and arranged to abut against a second side of the panel. In use, the first resiliently deformable member and the resiliently deformable arm can secure the panel between them.

[0014] The first resiliently deformable sealing member can be operably enclosed by a cover member configured to protect the first resiliently deformable sealing member from external elements.

[0015] The valve assembly may include a second resiliently deformable sealing member attached to the first portion and arranged to abut against the second portion when the second portion is in the first position to seal a second opening in the first portion. Gaskets, U-shaped seals, V-shaped seals, and O-rings are examples of resiliently deformable members.

[0016] The first and second resilient deformable sealing members can be integrally formed with each other. This advantageously allows the first and second resilient deformable sealing members to be overmolded into the first part, providing a simpler process for manufacturing the valve assembly. Furthermore, in use, the first resilient deformable sealing member and the bayonet coupling can sealably engage the panel between them.

[0017] The valve assembly may include a gasket attached to the second portion. When the second portion is in the first position, the gasket may be arranged to seal the second opening.

[0018] From another independent perspective, the invention provides a housing comprising: a panel defining an internal volume and an external volume and having a fluid port formed therein; and a valve assembly as described above, fixed within the fluid port. This advantageously provides the housing with a self-starting valve that automatically activates when liquid accumulates within the housing.

[0019] From another independent perspective, the present invention provides an electric vehicle battery pack comprising: a panel defining an internal volume and an external volume and having a fluid port formed therein; and a valve assembly as described above, fixed within the fluid port. This advantageously provides better safety for the electric vehicle battery pack because the valve will automatically actuate once the coolant liquid within the housing comes into contact with the deformable member in the valve. Attached Figure Description

[0020] An exemplary valve assembly will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 (A) and (B) show perspective views of an exemplary discharge valve;

[0022] Figure 2 (A) and (B) demonstrate Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the discharge valve;

[0023] Figure 3 (A) shows that it includes the configuration in the first type. Figure 1 (A) shows an exemplary housing of a drain valve, the first configuration preventing liquid from passing through the drain valve, and (B) shows a housing in which the drain valve is in a second configuration that allows liquid to pass through the drain valve and flow out of the housing;

[0024] Figure 4 (A) and (B) show perspective views of alternative discharge valves;

[0025] Figure 5 (A) and (B) demonstrate Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the discharge valve;

[0026] Figure 6 (A) shows that it includes the configuration in the first type. Figure 4 (A) shows an alternative housing for the drain valve, the first configuration preventing liquid from passing through the drain valve, and (B) shows a housing in which the drain valve is in a second configuration that allows liquid to pass through the drain valve and flow out of the housing;

[0027] Figure 7 (A) and (B) show cross-sectional views of an alternative discharge valve mechanism when the second part is in the first position of (A) and the second position of (B);

[0028] Figure 8 (A) to (C) show Figure 7 A close-up view of the cross-section of the discharge valve, and

[0029] Figure 9 Demonstrated for Figure 7 and Figure 8 A close-up view of the bayonet connector for an alternative drain valve, showing a suitable bayonet design. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Some terms used in the following description are for convenience only and not restrictive. The terms “right,” “left,” “down,” “up,” “front,” “back,” “upward,” “downward,” and “downward” indicate directions referenced in the accompanying drawings and are described relative to the state of the described components during assembly and installation. The terms “inward,” “toward,” “outward,” and “outward” refer to directions toward and away from the specified centerline or geometric center (e.g., central axis) of the described element, respectively, and their specific meanings are self-evident from the context of the description.

[0031] Furthermore, as used herein, the terms “connected,” “attached,” “linked,” and “installed” are intended to include direct connections between two components without any other components in between, as well as indirect connections between multiple components, i.e., connections between one or more other components. The terms include those specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings.

[0032] Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the use of ordinal adjectives such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., merely indicates that different instances of similar objects are being referred to, and is not intended to imply that the objects described must be in a given order in time, space, hierarchy, or any other way.

[0033] Similar reference numerals are always used to describe similar features.

[0034] Figure 1 A and Figure 1B shows a perspective view of an exemplary drain valve 50 comprising a first portion 55 and a second portion 105. The first portion 55 has a generally circular body 60, a cap 80 fixed to a first end of the body 60, and a skirt 70 at a second end of the body 60. The cap 80 has a plurality of arms 85 extending toward the body 60, and each arm 85 engages with a corresponding transverse member 65 of the body 60 formed by an opening within the body 60. The engagement between the arms 85 and the transverse member 65 is a mechanical snap-fit ​​connection, which provides a simple and convenient way to secure the cap 80 to the body 60. However, other types of mechanical fastening, including releasable and / or temporary attachments (such as press-fit screws), would also be suitable for securing the cap 80 to the body 60. The body 60 also includes a series of openings 90 that allow coolant liquids (such as water) to enter cavities 95 within the body 60 (see also...). Figure 2 A). Skirt 70 has a series of openings 100 that allow liquid to drain from cavity 95. In some cases, cap 80 comprises a flame-retardant material. In some cases, body 60 and / or second part 105 and / or cap 80 comprises a plastic material.

[0035] Figure 2 A and Figure 2 B showcased Figure 1 A and Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the discharge valve 50 of B, showing its position within the cavity 95 and when the second part 105 is fixed in... Figure 2 The first position shown in Figure A is the deformable disc 120 abutting against the cap 80. In the first position, the deformable disc 120 is in an initial dry state, and the deformable disc resists the compressive force of the stainless steel compression spring 115, which is biased to push the second portion 105 toward the cap 80. Although the spring 115 is shown disposed between the inner surface of the second portion 105 and the central post 72 fixed to the skirt 70 by a series of connecting spokes 73, it is clear that this is not necessary, and other arrangements may also be suitable for use with this discharge valve 50. Similarly, although the compression spring 115 is disclosed, it is clear that this is merely an example, and other components will also be suitable for biasing the second portion 105 toward the cap 80.

[0036] A series of resilient barbs 75 extending from the body 60 are also provided. The barbs 75 are arranged to engage with an elastomeric ring 92 disposed on the skirt 70. The barbs 75 and the ring 92 define a space for receiving the lip 19 of the panel 12 to secure the drain valve 50 to the panel (see also...). Figure 3 A). In use, ring 92 provides a seal between panel 12 and skirt 70.

[0037] In one example, the deformable disc 120 reacts with a mixture of ethylene glycol and water (an exemplary coolant liquid). This reaction causes the disc 120 to dissolve at least partially, which weakens the disc 120 in a desired manner and allows the disc 120 to deform due to the compressive force of the spring 115. While water and ethylene glycol are provided as exemplary coolant liquids, and polyvinyl alcohol is provided as an exemplary component of the disc 120, it is clear that these are merely examples, and other fluids (liquids, gases) or solids (e.g., powders) suitable for cooling, as well as components of the deformable disc 120, would also be suitable for use with this discharge valve 50.

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown in A, when the disc 120 is in its initial "dry" state, the second portion 105 is held in a first position at the second end of the body 60, and the second opening 100 is sealed by pressing the gasket 110 against the inner surface of the skirt 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 105 has a generally cylindrical profile, with an open end at the first end and a closed end at the second end opposite to the first end, and the gasket 110 is an O-ring fixed within a recess 107 formed in the sidewall of the second portion 105. However, it is clear that the cylindrical profile is merely exemplary, and other profiles combined with a suitably shaped gasket 110 would also be suitable for use with this discharge valve 50. Similarly, although an O-ring has been described, it is clear that other profiles are also suitable for sealing the second opening 100. The open end of the second portion 105 is arranged to receive a compression spring 115 and a portion of the central post 72. The closed end is arranged to abut against the deformable disc 120 and is subjected to compressive force on the disc 120 due to the compression spring 115.

[0039] Figure 3A shows an exemplary housing 10 in which the discharge valve 50 is fixed in a panel 12. The panel 12 defines an internal volume 18 and an external volume 20 of the housing 10, in which battery cells (not shown) of an electric vehicle battery pack are located together with coolant conduits (not shown) for cooling the battery cells. A neck ring 14 is also provided in the housing 10, defining an inlet 16 for guiding coolant 22 toward the discharge valve 50. When coolant 22 enters the neck ring 14, the coolant passes through a first opening 90 of the discharge valve 50, and coolant accumulates in the cavity 95 of the body 60 because a second opening 100 is sealed by a second portion 105 pressing an O-ring 110 against the inner surface of the skirt 70. Once the coolant in the neck ring 14 reaches a critical level, the coolant contacts the deformable disc 120 and begins to dissolve the disc 120. As the disc 120 dissolves, it loses its structural integrity and softens as the material constituting the disc 120 dissolves into the coolant 22. As disc 120 dissolves, it will have a gradually decreasing profile, thus providing less resistance to the compressive force applied by compression spring 115. As more coolant accumulates in discharge valve 50, more of the deformable disc 120 will dissolve and release the second portion 105.

[0040] When the disc 120 has degenerated sufficiently to no longer resist the compressive force of the compression spring 115, the disc 120 is in the second "wet" state (see also...). Figure 2 B and Figure 3 (B) When the disc 120 is wet, the compression spring 115 can move the second portion 105 toward the cap 80, thereby opening the second opening 100 of the first portion 50. In this second configuration, the washer 110 is spaced apart from the skirt 70, thereby providing a fluid flow path between the first opening 90 and the second opening 100. Coolant liquid 22 can thus be drained from the internal volume 18 of the housing 10, reducing the risk of damage to any liquid-sensitive components within the housing 10. While the neck ring 14 provides a simple way to direct coolant toward the drain valve 50, it is clear that the neck ring 14 is not necessary in any housing 10 that includes the drain valve 50. It is also clear that the disc 120 does not necessarily need to be completely dissolved in order for the second portion 105 to move to the second position. In some cases, the disc 120 may be partially dissolved, reducing the structural integrity of the disc 120 to a level sufficient for the compression spring 11 to crush the remaining disc 120 material to move the second portion 105 to the second position.

[0041] Figure 4 A and Figure 4B shows a perspective view of an alternative drain valve 150. Drain valve 150 is similar to drain valve 50 and includes a first portion 155 and a second portion 205. The first portion has a generally circular body 160, a cap 180 at a first end of the body 160, and a skirt 170 at a second end of the body 160. The cap 180 has a plurality of arms 185 extending toward the skirt 170, and each arm 185 engages with a corresponding transverse member 165 of the body 160 formed by an opening within the body 160. The engagement between the arms 185 and the transverse member 165 is a mechanical snap-fit ​​connection, which provides a simple and convenient way to secure the cap 180 to the body 160. However, it is apparent that other types of mechanical fastening, including releasable and / or temporary attachments (such as press-fit screws), would also be suitable. The body 160 also includes a series of openings 190 that allow coolant liquids (such as water) to enter cavities 195 within the body 160 (see also...). Figure 5 A). The skirt 170 has a series of openings 200 that allow liquid to drain from the cavity 195.

[0042] Figure 5 A and Figure 5 B showcased Figure 4 A and Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the discharge valve 150 of B, showing the valve disposed within the cavity 195 and when the second part 205 is fixed in... Figure 5 The first position shown in Figure A is the deformable disc 220 abutting against the cap 180. In the first position, the deformable disc 220 is in an initial dry state, providing elasticity against the compressive force of the compression spring 215, which is biased to push the second portion 205 toward the cap 180. Although the spring 215 is shown disposed between the inner surface of the second portion 205 and the central post 172 fixed to the skirt 170 by a series of connecting spokes 173, it is clear that this is not necessary, and other arrangements may also be suitable for use with this discharge valve 150. Similarly, although the compression spring 215 is disclosed, it is clear that this is merely an example, and other components suitable for biasing the second portion 205 toward the cap 180 would also be suitable.

[0043] A series of resilient barbs 175 extending from the body 160 are also provided. The barbs 175 are arranged to engage with a first washer 192 disposed on the skirt 170. One difference between the drain valve 150 and the drain valve 50 is that the first washer 192 and the second washer 210 are integrally formed as a single component, which is overmolded onto the body 160 made of a first plastic material. Both the first washer 192 and the second washer 210 are shown as a V-shaped structure defining the body 160. However, it is clear that neither the first washer 192 nor the second washer 210 is required to be V-shaped. In some cases, the first washer 192 and / or the second washer 210 may include O-rings to abut against the panel 14 and seal the second opening 200, respectively. The first washer 195 and the arm 175 provide space for receiving the lip 39 of the panel 32 and provide a convenient method for securing the drain valve 150 to the panel 32 in a manner similar to that of the drain valve 50 (see also...). Figure 6 A). In some cases, the first washer 192 and / or the second washer 210 may comprise a thermoplastic elastomer material.

[0044] In the drain valve 150, the deformable disc 220 reacts with a mixture of ethylene glycol and water. When water comes into contact with the surface of the disc 220, the reaction causes the deformable disc 220 to at least partially dissolve, which weakens the disc 220 in a desired manner and allows the disc 220 to deform due to the compressive force of the spring 115. While water and ethylene glycol are provided as exemplary coolant liquids, and polyvinyl alcohol is provided as an exemplary component of the disc 220, it is clear that these are merely examples, and other coolant liquids and compositions of the deformable disc 220 would also be suitable for use with this drain valve 150. Similarly, the deformable disc 120 need not have the same composition as the disc 220. Similarly, while the disc 120 is shown as a hollow cylinder with relatively closed ends (see...), Figure 3 A) and disc 220 is shown as a solid cylinder with a relatively convex surface; however, it is clear that neither of these profiles is essential for the function of the discharge valves 50 and 150, and other shapes are also suitable. Similarly, although discs 120 and 220 are described as being weakened by partial dissolution, it is clear that deformable discs 120 and 220 may comprise materials whose material properties (such as hardness) change upon contact with a liquid. This would provide alternative or additional methods for weakening discs 120 and 220 in a desired manner.

[0045] like Figure 5As shown in A, when the disc 220 is in its initial "dry" state, the second portion 105 remains in a first position at the second end of the body 160, and the base 207 of the second portion 105 presses against the second washer 210 to seal the second opening 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 205 has a generally cylindrical profile, with an open end at the first end and a closed end at the second end opposite to the first end. However, it is clear that the cylindrical profile is merely exemplary, and other profiles may also be used in conjunction with the second washer 210. The open end of the second portion 205 is arranged to receive the compression spring 215 and a portion of the central post 172 in a manner similar to that described with respect to the drain valve 50. The closed end is arranged to abut against the deformable disc 220 and to apply a compressive force to the disc 220 due to the compression spring 215.

[0046] Figure 6 A shows that it includes the configuration in the first type. Figure 4 A and Figure 4 An exemplary housing 30 of the discharge valve 150 of B, this first configuration prevents liquid from passing through the discharge valve 150. The housing 30 includes a panel 32 that defines an internal volume 38 and an external volume 40. A liquid-sensitive component (not shown) of the electric vehicle battery pack is present in the internal volume 38 along with a portion of the coolant system (not shown). When coolant escapes from the coolant system, coolant accumulates in the housing 30. A neck ring 34 may also be provided in the housing 10 to define an inlet 36 for guiding coolant 22 toward the discharge valve 150. When coolant 22 enters the neck ring 34, the coolant will pass through a first opening 190 formed in the body 160 of the discharge valve 150, and coolant will accumulate within a cavity 195 of the body 160 because the second opening 200 is sealed by a second portion 205 abutting against a second gasket 210. Once the coolant within the neck ring 34 reaches a critical level, the coolant will contact the deformable disc 220 and begin to dissolve the disc 220. As disk 220 dissolves, it loses its structural integrity and softens as the materials constituting disk 220 dissolve into coolant 22. With the dissolution of disk 220, it will have a gradually decreasing profile, thus providing less resistance to the compressive force applied by compression spring 215. By selecting a convex profile, the rate of displacement of the second portion 205 can be controlled, as more material needs to be dissolved for a given displacement of the second portion 205.

[0047] When the resistance of disc 220 is insufficient to resist the compressive force of compression spring 215, disc 220 is in the second wet state (see also...). Figure 5 B and Figure 6(B) When the disc 220 is wet, the compression spring 215 can move the second portion 205 toward the cap 180, thereby moving the base 207 away from the second washer 210 and breaking the seal in the second opening 200 to provide a fluid flow path between the first opening 190 and the second opening 200. The coolant liquid 22 can thus be discharged from the internal volume 38 of the housing 30, reducing the risk of damage to any liquid-sensitive components within the housing 30. While the neck ring 34 is provided as a convenient method of directing coolant toward the drain valve 150, it is clear that the neck ring 34 is not necessary in any housing 30 including the drain valve 150. It is also clear that complete dissolution of the disc 220 is not necessary for the second portion 205 to move to the second position. In some cases, the structural integrity of the disc 220 can be sufficiently reduced so that the compression spring 215 can crush the remaining disc 220 material to move the second portion 205 to the second position.

[0048] Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 Another example embodiment of an alternative discharge valve 250 utilizing different arrangements of its parts is shown, but the basic structure and function of the alternative valve assembly 250 are the same as those for... Figure 1 (Discharge valve 50) and Figure 4 The mechanism and function described in the example embodiment shown (discharge valve 150) are similar.

[0049] Figure 7 A and Figure 7 B shows a corresponding cross-sectional view of an exemplary discharge valve 250 including a first portion 255 and a second portion 305. Like other example embodiments 50, 150, the first portion 255 has a generally circular body and, for example, a bayonet connector provided at the upper end of the body of the first portion 255 (see [link to example]). Figure 9 (as in the example) a cap 280 is fixed to the upper end 260 of the body. The body also includes a series of openings 290 that allow coolant liquid (such as water) to enter a cavity 295 within the body. The lower end 265 of the body has a series of second openings 300 (not shown) that allow liquid to drain from the cavity 295. As in the example embodiments above, the cap 280 may include a flame-retardant material, and the body and / or the second portion 305 and / or the cap 280 may include a plastic material.

[0050] like Figure 7As shown in Figure A, a deformable disc 320 is disposed within the cavity 295, and when the second portion 305 is held in the first position, the deformable disc abuts against the lower surface of the cap 280. In the first position, the deformable disc 320 is in an initial dry state, and the deformable disc resists the compressive force of a stainless steel compression spring 315, which is biased to push the second portion 305 toward the cap 280. Although the spring 315 is shown disposed between the inner surface of the second portion 305 and the central post 272 provided at the lower end 265, it is clear that this is not necessary, and other arrangements may also be suitable for use with this discharge valve 250. Similarly, although the compression spring 315 is disclosed, it is clear that this is merely an example, and other components will also be suitable for biasing the second portion 305 toward the cap 280 and / or toward the upper end 160 of the body.

[0051] When the disc 320 is in its initial "dry" state, the second portion 305 is held in a first position facing the lower end 265 of the body, thereby sealing the second opening 300 by applying pressure to the inner surface of the lower end 265 of the body with the second sealing member 310 (see...). Figure 8 A). When the second portion is in its second position facing the upper end 260 of the body, a space is formed between the second portion 305 and the second sealing member 310, thereby allowing any fluid retained in the cavity 295 to flow through the second opening 300 (see...). Figure 8 B).

[0052] Now for reference Figure 8 A close-up illustration in C shows that the covering member 370 can be provided at the upper end 260 of the body (e.g., in the form of a skirt or "umbrella"), which is adapted to connect with the bayonet connector 400 (see [reference]). Figure 9 The cover member 370 is configured to cooperate so that when the valve 250 is attached to the panel 232, it forms an encapsulation space for the first sealing member 292. In use, the cover member 370 is configured to protect the first sealing member 292 from splashes of water, dust, or other debris. Figure 8 In the example embodiments shown in A through 8C, the first sealing member 292 and the second sealing member 310 are integral pieces made of the same material (e.g., silicone or any other suitable elastomer), or at least connected to each other (and made of the same or different materials). However, the first sealing member 292 and the second sealing member 310 may also be separate components made of the same or different materials. Each of the first sealing member 292 and the second sealing member 310 has a double-lip contact portion (i.e., a sealing portion), but any other suitable contact portion may be used to form a fluid seal between the respective panel 232 and the first portion 255, and between the second portion 305 and the first portion 255.

[0053] As described in the aforementioned example embodiments for valves 50 and 150, coolant accumulates in cavity 295 through the first opening 290 of discharge valve 250 and when the second opening 300 is sealed by the second portion 305 pressing against the second sealing member 310. Once the coolant reaches a critical level, it contacts deformable disc 320 and begins to dissolve it. As disc 320 dissolves, it loses its structural integrity and softens as the material constituting disc 320 dissolves into the coolant. As disc 320 dissolves at least partially, it will have a gradually decreasing profile, thus providing less resistance to the compressive force applied by compression spring 315.

[0054] When the disc 320 has degraded sufficiently to no longer resist the compressive force of the compression spring 315, the compression spring 315 can move the second portion 305 toward the upper end 260 and disengage it from the second sealing member 310, thereby opening the second opening 300 of the first portion 255. Coolant liquid can thus be drained, reducing the risk of damage to any liquid-sensitive components within the housing.

[0055] Figure 9 An example of a bayonet connector is shown, which can be used to attach drain valves 50, 150, 250 to panels 12, 32, 232 and / or secure cap 280 to the body. However, those skilled in the art will understand that any other suitable design may be used.

[0056] While the valve assemblies 50, 150 of the present invention have been described in relation to electric vehicle battery packs, it is clear that the valve assemblies are also relevant to any housing that requires automatic drainage of accumulated fluid. In some cases, the housings 10, 30 may include aluminum panels for receiving the drain valves 50, 150 of this disclosure.

[0057] Throughout the specification and claims, the words “comprising” and “including,” and variations thereof, mean “including, but not limited to,” and are not intended to (and do not) exclude other parts, additions, components, integrals, or steps. In the specification and claims, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context requires otherwise. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, this specification should be understood to consider both the plural and singular forms unless the context requires otherwise.

[0058] Features, elements, characteristics, or groups described in connection with specific aspects, embodiments, or examples of the invention should be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, or example described herein, unless incompatible therewith. All features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, unless at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not limited to the details of any of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel feature or combination of novel features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings), or to any novel step or combination of novel steps in any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. A valve assembly comprising: a first portion mountable to a fluid port of a panel and comprising a first opening for allowing fluid to enter the first portion from a first side of the panel and a second opening for allowing fluid to flow out of the first portion to a second side of the panel through the fluid port, wherein the first portion has a body and the first opening is formed in a circumferential wall of the body; a second portion disposed within the first portion and configured to seal the second opening when in a first position within the first portion, a deformable member disposed within the first portion, and a resilient member biased to move the second portion to a second position within the first portion so as to provide a fluid flow path from the first opening to the second opening, wherein, when in an initial state, the deformable member is arranged to hold the second portion in the first position and the valve assembly is configured such that liquid entering the first portion through the first opening accumulates within a cavity of the body of the first portion and, once the liquid within the cavity reaches a critical level, it will contact the deformable member, and wherein, upon contacting the liquid within the first portion, at least a portion of the deformable member is configured to deform so as to enable the resilient member to move the second portion to the second position.

2. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein, The deformable member comprises a synthetic polymer, and / or wherein the deformable member comprises a foam structure.

3. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein, The first portion comprises a fire-retardant cap portion for receiving the deformable member.

4. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein, The deformable member is configured to soften or at least partially dissolve upon contacting the liquid.

5. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein, The deformable member is located in a space between a surface portion of the first portion and a surface portion of the second portion, wherein the surface portion of the second portion faces the surface portion of the first portion; or wherein the deformable member is located in a space between a surface portion of the first portion and a surface portion of the second portion such that, upon contacting the liquid, the deformation of the deformable member allows the surface portion of the second portion to move towards the surface portion of the first portion.

6. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein, The first portion comprises a bayonet coupling adapted to attachingly engage with the fluid port of the panel.

7. The valve assembly of claim 6, comprising a first elastically deformable sealing member comprising two sealing lips fixed to the first portion and arranged to abut the second side of the panel.

8. The valve assembly of claim 7, wherein, The first elastically deformable sealing member is operatively enclosed by a cover member configured to protect the first elastically deformable sealing member from external elements.

9. The valve assembly of claim 7, comprising a second elastically deformable sealing member attached to the first portion and arranged to abut the second portion when the second portion is in the first position so as to seal the second opening of the first portion.

10. The valve assembly of claim 9, wherein, The first and second elastically deformable sealing members are integrally formed with one another.

11. The valve assembly of claim 7, wherein, In use, the first elastically deformable sealing member and the bayonet coupling sealably engage the faceplate therebetween.

12. The valve assembly of claim 7, wherein, The first portion comprises an elastically deformable arm arranged to engage a lip of the faceplate at the first side of the faceplate so as to secure the first portion within the fluid port.

13. The valve assembly of claim 12, wherein, In use, the first elastically deformable sealing member and the elastically deformable arm secure the faceplate therebetween.

14. A housing comprising: A faceplate defining an internal volume and an external volume and having a fluid port formed therein, and the valve assembly of any of claims 1 to 13 secured within the fluid port.

15. An electric vehicle battery pack comprising: A faceplate defining an internal volume and an external volume and having a fluid port formed therein, and the valve assembly of any of claims 1 to 13 secured within the fluid port.

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