Pressure release assembly

Abstract

A pressure relief assembly has a frame having a coupling structure, a valve mounting surface portion, a valve opening within the valve mounting surface portion, a drain mounting surface portion, and a drain opening within the drain mounting surface portion. The discharge opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening. The valve body is arranged on the valve mounting surface portion in a sealable manner on the valve opening. A first stop releasably secures the valve body to the frame. The first stop is configured to release the valve body from the frame depending on a minimum pressure differential across the valve opening. The drain is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion on the drain opening.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 352,711 filed on June 16, 2022 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 341,725 ​​filed on May 13, 2022, the entire contents of both applications are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to an assembly. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a pressure relief assembly. Summary of the invention

[0004] The technology disclosed herein relates in part to a pressure relief assembly having a frame having a coupling structure, a valve mounting surface portion, a valve opening located in the valve mounting surface portion, a discharge member mounting surface portion, and a discharge member opening located in the discharge member mounting surface portion. The discharge member opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening. The valve body is arranged on the valve mounting surface portion in a sealable manner on the valve opening. A first stopper releasably fixes the valve body to the frame, and the first stopper is configured to release the valve body from the valve frame according to a minimum pressure difference on the valve opening. The discharge member is coupled to the discharge member mounting surface portion on the discharge member opening.

[0005] In some such embodiments, the pressure relief assembly has a discharge member cover that extends laterally over the discharge member, wherein the discharge member is axially positioned between the frame and the discharge member cover. Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member cover and the valve body are a single integral component. Additionally or alternatively, the pressure relief assembly has an environmental opening that is perpendicular to the discharge member cover. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental opening is axially positioned between the discharge member cover and the discharge member. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental opening is defined by the discharge member cover. Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member is a breathable membrane.

[0006] Additionally or alternatively, the second stop releasably secures the valve body to the frame. Additionally or alternatively, the second stop extends transversely from the frame to the valve body and is configured to release the valve body from the valve frame based on a minimum pressure differential across the valve opening. Additionally or alternatively, the second stop is a spring loaded stop. Additionally or alternatively, the hinge pivotally couples the valve body to the frame.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively, the hinge is positioned opposite to the first stop in a lateral direction relative to the valve body. Additionally or alternatively, the first stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve body. Additionally or alternatively, the valve stem extends from the valve body in an axial direction, and the first stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve stem. Additionally or alternatively, the first stop is a spring-loaded stop.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively, the first stopper has a stopper accommodating portion having a first end and an open second end. The compression elastic member is arranged in the stopper accommodating portion, wherein the compression elastic member extends from the first end toward the open second end. The stopper engagement surface portion is arranged in the stopper accommodating portion in a translatable manner. The compression elastic member is arranged in a compressible manner between the stopper engagement surface portion and the first end of the stopper accommodating portion.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively, the first stop is a magnetic member. Additionally or alternatively, the valve body has an annular profile in a lateral direction. Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member opening is geometrically parallel to the valve opening. Additionally or alternatively, the valve opening is geometrically non-parallel to the valve opening. Additionally or alternatively, a guard is coupled to the frame, wherein the guard defines a plurality of openings that are spaced laterally throughout the valve airflow path and throughout the discharge member airflow path. Additionally or alternatively, the assembly has a guard coupled to the frame, and the guard defines a plurality of openings that are spaced laterally throughout the valve airflow path. Additionally or alternatively, the guard is positioned toward a first end of the valve assembly.

[0010] Some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein relate to a pressure relief assembly having a first axial end, a second axial end, and a valve air flow path, which extends from the first axial end through the valve opening and through the second axial end. The frame has a connecting structure, a valve mounting surface portion, and a valve opening located within the valve mounting surface portion. The valve body is arranged on the valve mounting surface portion in a sealable manner on the valve opening, whereby the valve air flow path is blocked. An elastic member-loaded first stopper fixes the valve body to the frame in a releasable manner, wherein the elastic member-loaded first stopper is configured to release the valve body from the valve frame according to a minimum pressure difference on the valve opening. The valve body is configured to keep the valve air flow path unobstructed according to a minimum pressure difference of the valve opening.

[0011] In some such embodiments, the first elastic member loaded stop extends transversely from the frame to the valve body. Additionally or alternatively, the valve stem extends from the valve body in an axial direction, and the first stop extends transversely from the frame to the valve stem. Additionally or alternatively, the pressure relief assembly has a plurality of elastic member loaded stops, the plurality of elastic member loaded stops including an elastic member loaded first stop. Each of the plurality of elastic member loaded stops releasably fixes the valve body to the frame. Each of the plurality of elastic member loaded stops extends transversely from the frame to the valve body. Each elastic member loaded stop is configured to release the valve body according to a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening. Additionally or alternatively, the pressure relief assembly has a discharge member, wherein the frame also has a discharge member mounting surface portion and a discharge member opening located within the discharge member mounting surface portion. The discharge member opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening, and the discharge member is coupled to the discharge member mounting surface portion on the discharge member opening. Additionally or alternatively, the pressure relief assembly has a discharge member, and the valve body has a discharge member mounting surface portion and a discharge member opening located within the discharge member mounting surface portion, wherein the discharge member opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening. The discharge member is coupled to the discharge member mounting surface portion over the discharge member opening. Additionally or alternatively, the valve has a valve sidewall surrounding the discharge member opening, and the frame has a frame sidewall surrounding the valve opening, wherein the frame sidewall is spaced radially outward relative to the valve sidewall.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member cover extends transversely over the discharge member. Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member is axially positioned between the frame and the discharge member cover. Additionally or alternatively, wherein the discharge member cover and the valve body are a single integral component. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental opening is defined perpendicular to the discharge member cover. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental opening is axially positioned between the discharge member cover and the discharge member. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental opening is defined by the discharge member cover. Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member opening is geometrically parallel to the valve opening. Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member opening is geometrically non-parallel to the valve opening.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member is a breathable membrane. Additionally or alternatively, the hinge connects the valve body to the frame in a pivotable manner. Additionally or alternatively, the hinge is positioned opposite to the first stopper in a lateral direction relative to the valve body. Additionally or alternatively, the elastic member loaded first stopper has a stopper accommodating portion having a first end and a second end. The compression elastic member is arranged in the stopper accommodating portion. The compression elastic member extends from the first end toward the second end. The stopper engagement surface portion is arranged in the stopper accommodating portion in a translatable manner. The compression elastic member is arranged in a compressible manner between the stopper engagement surface portion and the first end of the stopper accommodating portion. Additionally or alternatively, the valve body has an annular profile in a lateral direction. Additionally or alternatively, the assembly has a guard device, which is connected to the frame, and the guard device is defined with a plurality of openings, which are spaced apart in the lateral direction throughout the valve airflow path. Additionally or alternatively, the guard is located towards the first end of the valve assembly.

[0014] Some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein relate to a pressure relief assembly having a frame having a coupling structure, a valve mounting surface portion, and a valve opening located within the valve mounting surface portion. The valve body is arranged on the valve mounting surface portion in a sealable manner on the valve opening. An elastic member-loaded first stopper fixes the valve body to the frame in a releasable manner, wherein the elastic member-loaded first stopper is configured to release the valve body from the valve frame according to a minimum pressure difference on the valve opening. The elastic member-loaded first stopper has a stopper accommodating portion having a first end and a second end. A compression elastic member is arranged in the stopper accommodating portion, wherein the compression elastic member extends from the first end toward the second end. The stopper engagement surface portion is arranged in the stopper accommodating portion in a translatable manner. The compression elastic member is arranged in a compressible manner between the stopper engagement surface portion and the first end of the stopper accommodating portion.

[0015] In some such embodiments, the frame has a drain mounting surface portion and a drain opening located within the drain mounting surface portion. The drain opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening. The pressure relief assembly also has a drain that is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion on the drain opening. Additionally or alternatively, the pressure relief assembly has a drain, and the valve body has a drain mounting surface portion and a drain opening located within the drain mounting surface portion, wherein the drain opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening. The drain is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion on the drain opening.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, the discharge opening is geometrically parallel to the valve opening.Additionally or alternatively, the discharge opening is geometrically non-parallel to the valve opening.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member cover extends transversely over the discharge member, wherein the discharge member is axially positioned between the frame and the discharge member cover. Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member cover and the valve body are a single integral component. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental opening is defined to be perpendicular to the discharge member cover. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental opening is axially positioned between the discharge member cover and the discharge member. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental opening is defined by the discharge member cover. Additionally or alternatively, the discharge member is a breathable membrane. Additionally or alternatively, the valve body has an annular profile in a transverse direction. Additionally or alternatively, the elastic member loaded first stop extends transversely from the frame to the valve body. Additionally or alternatively, the valve stem extends from the valve body in an axial direction, and the elastic member loaded first stop extends transversely from the frame to the valve stem.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, the assembly has a second elastomeric loaded stop that releasably couples the valve body to the frame. Additionally or alternatively, the second elastomeric loaded stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve body. The second elastomeric loaded stop is configured to release the valve body from the valve frame based on a minimum pressure differential across the valve opening. Additionally or alternatively, a hinge pivotally couples the valve body to the frame. Additionally or alternatively, the hinge is positioned opposite the elastomeric loaded first stop in a lateral direction relative to the valve body. Additionally or alternatively, the valve has a valve sidewall surrounding a discharge opening, and the frame has a frame sidewall surrounding the valve opening, wherein the frame sidewall is radially spaced outwardly relative to the valve sidewall. Additionally or alternatively, the assembly has a guard that is coupled to the frame, and the guard defines a plurality of openings that are spaced laterally across the valve airflow path. Additionally or alternatively, the guard is located towards the first end of the valve assembly.

[0019] The above summary is not intended to describe every embodiment or every implementation. Instead, a more complete understanding of the illustrative embodiments will become apparent and understandable by referring to the following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments and the claims in conjunction with the figures in the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The present technology may be more fully understood and appreciated considering the following detailed description of various embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0021] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary pressure relief assembly according to the technology disclosed herein.

[0022] Figure 2 yes Figure 1An exploded view of an exemplary pressure relief assembly viewed from a first angle.

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of an exemplary pressure relief assembly viewed from a second angle.

[0024] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure relief assembly.

[0025] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of another example pressure relief assembly according to the technology disclosed herein.

[0026] Figure 6 is an exploded view of yet another exemplary pressure relief assembly according to the technology disclosed herein.

[0027] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure relief assembly.

[0028] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of yet another pressure relief assembly according to the technology disclosed herein.

[0029] Fig. 9 is an exploded view of yet another exemplary pressure relief assembly according to the technology disclosed herein.

[0030] Fig.10 is based on Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of a pressure relief assembly.

[0031] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of another pressure relief assembly according to the technology disclosed herein.

[0032] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 A perspective exploded cross-sectional view of a pressure relief assembly.

[0033] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of another pressure relief assembly according to the technology disclosed herein.

[0034] Fig.14 yes Fig.13 A perspective exploded cross-sectional view of a pressure relief assembly.

[0035] Fig.15 is an exploded cross-sectional perspective view of another exemplary pressure relief assembly.

[0036] Fig.16 is an exploded cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary pressure relief assembly.

[0037] Fig.17 yes Fig.16 An exploded view of an exemplary pressure relief assembly viewed from a second angle.

[0038] Fig.18 yes Fig.16 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure relief assembly.

[0039] The drawings are primarily for clarity and are therefore not necessarily drawn to scale. In addition, various structures / components, including but not limited to fasteners, electrical components (wiring, cables, etc.), etc., may be illustrated in a diagrammatic manner or removed from some or all of the views to better illustrate various aspects of the described embodiments, or where the inclusion of these structures / components is not necessary for understanding the various exemplary embodiments described herein, these structures / components may be illustrated in a diagrammatic manner or removed from some or all of the views. However, the lack of illustration / description of these structures / components in a particular view should not be construed as limiting the scope of the various embodiments in any way. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Pressure relief assemblies according to the technology disclosed herein are generally configured to provide pressure relief for an enclosure when the pressure within the enclosure exceeds a minimum pressure differential compared to the environment outside the enclosure. The pressure relief assembly is generally configured to be coupled to an enclosure, wherein the enclosure is generally not a component of the pressure relief assembly. The pressure relief assembly can be configured to facilitate selective pressure balancing of the enclosure while preventing contaminants, such as particles and liquids (such as water), from entering the enclosure. The enclosure is generally configured to house system components, such as electronic components and battery cells as examples. In some examples, the enclosure is a battery housing.

[0041] Some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein can advantageously allow the pressure relief assembly to be reused after the pressure relief valve is released. In particular, a stopper that can be used to release the pressure relief valve can be configured to be used multiple times without mechanical / physical degradation, which allows a predictable minimum pressure difference to trigger the use of the valve. For example, the reusability of the pressure relief assembly can advantageously allow each component to be tested before use by an end customer. As another example, the reusability of the pressure relief assembly can advantageously allow reuse by an end customer.

[0042] Figures 1 to 4 An exemplary pressure relief assembly 100 according to the technology disclosed herein is shown. Figures 1 to 4 You can view it together with the following description. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the exemplary pressure relief assembly 100, Figure 2is a first exploded view of the exemplary pressure relief assembly 100, Figure 3 is a second exploded view of the exemplary pressure relief assembly 100, and Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure relief assembly 100 is shown in FIG.

[0043] The pressure relief assembly 100 is generally configured to be coupled to the enclosure around an opening in the enclosure. The pressure relief assembly 100 generally has: a first axial end 102; a second axial end 104; and a valve air flow path 106 extending from the first axial end 102 through the second axial end 104. The valve air flow path 106 is selectively blocked by a valve 130, wherein the valve 130 is configured to release pressure when the pressure within the enclosure exceeds a minimum pressure differential compared to the environment outside the enclosure.

[0044] The pressure relief assembly 100 generally has a frame 110 and a valve 130 coupled to the frame 110. The frame 110 is generally configured to support one or more components of the pressure relief assembly 100. The frame 110 has a coupling structure 120, a valve mounting surface portion 112, and a valve opening 111 located in the valve mounting surface portion 112. The valve air flow path 106 selectively extends through the valve opening 111.

[0045] The connecting structure 120 is generally configured to be sealably connected to the enclosure around an enclosure opening not currently shown. The connecting structure 120 is generally configured to engage with the enclosure. In the current example, the connecting structure 120 has a plurality of fastener receiving portions 122, each of which is configured to receive a fastener that fastens the pressure relief assembly 100 to the enclosure. Exemplary fasteners include screws, bolts, pins, etc. In some embodiments, the connecting structure 120 is defined toward the second axial end 104 of the pressure relief assembly 100.

[0046] In some other embodiments, the connecting structure can form a snap-on connection with the enclosure. In some other embodiments, the connecting member forms a mating structure that is configured to mate with a corresponding structure defined by the shell. For example, the connecting structure can be defined with a screw thread portion that is configured to be engaged by the enclosure around the enclosure opening. As another example, the connecting structure can be defined with a connector that interlocks with the enclosure around the enclosure opening, such as a bayonet connector. In some embodiments, the connecting structure can be connected to the enclosure around the enclosure opening by an adhesive.

[0047] In an embodiment according to the present example, the pressure relief assembly 100 has a sealing area 124 (best seen at Figure 4). The sealing area 124 is configured to form a seal between the pressure relief assembly 100 and the enclosure when the pressure relief assembly 100 is coupled to the enclosure. The sealing area 124 typically surrounds a portion of the valve airflow path. In the example currently shown, the sealing area 124 surrounds the valve opening 111. In some embodiments, the sealing area 124 surrounds the coupling structure 120. The sealing area 124 may include an elastomeric material configured to contact the enclosure. The sealing area 124 may be defined by the frame 110 itself, or the enclosure area 124 may be a separate portion, such as a seal 126. In the current example, the sealing area 124 includes a circumferential groove 125 that is configured to receive the seal 126. In some embodiments, the sealing area 124 has a seal 126 that is an annular member of rubber or another gasket or sealing material.

[0048] The valve mounting surface portion 112 is generally configured to receive the valve 130 in a sealable manner around the valve opening. The valve 130 selectively blocks the valve gas flow path 106. In the current example, the valve mounting surface portion 112 includes a sealing member 114 that is configured to form a seal with a valve body 132 of the valve 130. In some other embodiments, the valve body 132 has a sealing member 114 that is configured to form a seal with the valve mounting surface portion 112. For example, the sealing member 114 can be an O-ring, or another annular member of an elastomeric material.

[0049] The valve 130 is generally configured to accommodate pressure relief from an enclosure to which the pressure relief assembly 100 is coupled. The valve 130 is generally configured to accommodate pressure relief from a first axial end 102 through a frame 110 to a second axial end 104. The valve 130 has a valve body 132 that is sealably arranged on a valve mounting surface portion 112 over a valve opening 111. Thus, the valve air flow path 106 is blocked by the valve body 132. The valve body 132 may be constructed of a variety of materials or a combination of materials including plastic, metal, wood, and the like. The valve body 132 is generally airtight and liquid-impermeable. Airtight is used herein to mean that there is no measurable air flow through the valve body 132 at room temperature with a pressure differential of at least 20 mbar across the valve body 132.

[0050] The valve body 132 can have a variety of different shapes, but in the current embodiment, the valve body 132 has an annular profile in the transverse direction, wherein the "transverse direction" refers to the aspect of a plane perpendicular to the axial direction, and the axial direction is the axis x ( Figure 4In some embodiments, the valve body 132 may have a lateral profile of a polygonal shape, such as a rectangle, a hexagon, or the like.

[0051] The valve 130 also has at least a first stopper 140 that releasably secures the valve body 132 to the frame 110. The first stopper 140 is configured to release the valve body 132 from the frame 110 based on a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening 111. In the current example, the valve 130 has a plurality of stops 140, including a first stopper that releasably secures the valve body 132 to the frame 110. A stopper is defined herein as a mechanical or magnetic structure that secures a first portion to a second portion and releases the first portion from the second portion when a specific release force is applied to the first portion. According to the technology disclosed herein, the "first portion" is typically the valve body 132, and the release force typically applied to the valve body 132 is the pressure difference between the enclosure and the external environment of the enclosure.

[0052] The one or more stops 140 may have various configurations. In the current example, each of the stops 140 is a spring-loaded stop, which is a stop that uses a compressed spring to secure the valve 130 to the frame 110, and the spring force is overcome by a release force to release the valve 130 from the frame 110. Each stop 140 extends laterally from the frame 110 to the valve body 132. In the current example, each stop is secured to the valve body 132, and each stop 140 frictionally engages with the frame 110, but a reverse configuration is possible in which each stop 140 is secured to the frame 110 and frictionally engages with the valve body 132. In addition, other types of engagement are possible, such as magnetic engagement.

[0053] In various embodiments, each stopper 140 in the plurality of stops has the same structure. Figure 4In the current example, each stopper 140 has a stopper receiving portion 142 having a first end 141 and a second end 143. The second end 143 is generally open, and a stopper engagement surface portion 144 protrudes from the second end 143 of the stopper receiving portion 142 to engage with a mating surface 145 of the frame 110 (or the valve body 132 in an exchanged orientation) in a frictional manner. A compression elastic member 146 is arranged in the stopper receiving portion 142, which extends from the first end 141 toward the second end 143. The compression elastic member 146 is compressed between the stopper engagement surface portion 144 and the first end 141 of the stopper receiving portion 142. The compression elastic member 146 biases the stopper engagement surface portion 144 outward. The stopper engagement surface portion 144 is arranged in the stopper receiving portion 142 in a translatable manner. In some embodiments, the compressible elastic member 146 can be a spiral coil constructed of metal or plastic. In some embodiments, the compressible elastic member 146 can also be a plurality of coils.

[0054] When the pressure in the enclosure increases to obtain a minimum pressure differential between the enclosure and the external environment, the force between the frame 110 and the stopper engagement surface portion 144 increases until the biasing force of the compression spring 146 is overcome, thereby causing lateral translation of the stopper engagement surface portion 144 against the compression spring 146 toward the first end of the stopper receiving portion 142. The pressure differential between the enclosure and the external environment generates a force that pushes the valve body 132 outward from the valve opening 111, which is not resisted by the stopper 140.

[0055] There are a variety of factors that contribute to defining the minimum pressure difference for removing the valve body 132 from the valve opening 111. The area of ​​the transverse profile of the valve opening 111, the biasing force of the stopper 140, the number of the stoppers 140, the contact angle between the stopper engagement surface portion 144 and the frame 140, and the curvature of the stopper engagement surface portion 144 are all exemplary factors that contribute to defining the minimum pressure difference for removing the valve body 132 from the valve opening 111. The minimum pressure difference is not particularly limited, but in some embodiments, the minimum pressure difference is in the range of from 40 mbar (.58 psi) to 100 mbar (1.45 psi), from 50 mbar (0.73 psi) to 90 mbar (1.3 psi), or from 60 mbar (.87 psi) to 80 mbar (1.16 psi). In a specific example, the minimum pressure difference is in the range of from 65 mbar (.94 psi) to 75 mbar (1.09 psi). However, other ranges are of course also contemplated.

[0056] The valve body 132 is typically configured to keep the airflow path 106 unobstructed based on a minimum pressure differential across the valve opening 111, wherein "unobstructed" valve airflow path 106 means that at least 85%, 90%, 95%, or 97% of the transverse area of ​​the valve opening does not overlap with the transverse area of ​​the valve body 132 in the axial direction. In some embodiments, there is no overlap in the axial direction between the transverse area of ​​the valve body 132 and 100% of the transverse area of ​​the valve opening. Advantageously, such a configuration can maximize the release of pressure from the enclosure to the external environment. In some such embodiments, the valve body 132 is configured to be discharged from the frame 110 based on a minimum pressure differential across the valve opening 111. In some embodiments, a tie can connect the valve body 132 to the frame 110 so that the valve body 132 remains in the vicinity of the frame 110 after being separated from the frame 110.

[0057] In the present example, the stopper engagement surface portion 144 is formed by a stopper ball 148 ( Figure 4 ). The stopper ball 148 may be a spherical member that is rotatably disposed in the stopper receiving portion 142 to facilitate the release of the valve body 132 by the frame 110. In some other embodiments, the stopper engagement surface portion may be defined by a differently shaped component, such as an oval or cylindrical component having a rounded convex end that forms the stopper engagement surface portion 144. In some other embodiments, the stopper engagement surface portion is concave.

[0058] As can be appreciated, the stop 140 can have alternative configurations. In some embodiments, one or more of the stops are not spring loaded stops. For example, the stop can be a protrusion extending laterally outward from the valve body 132 or a protrusion extending laterally inward from the frame 110 to engage with a corresponding engagement surface of the other of the frame 110 or the valve body 132. In some embodiments, each stop is a magnetic member that secures the valve body to the frame 110.

[0059] In the present example, the stopper 140 is fixed to the valve body 132. More specifically, the valve body 132 defines a transverse stopper opening 134 (visible at Figure 3). In this example, the stopper openings 134 extend radially outward from the central axis x and are equally spaced around the central axis. Each stopper opening 134 is configured to receive and engage a stopper receiving portion 142. Specifically, the first end 141 of each stopper receiving portion 142 is inserted into the stopper opening 134. The second end 143 of the stopper receiving portion 142 can be positioned outside the stopper opening 134 or positioned inside the stopper opening 134. The stopper engagement surface portion 144 is generally positioned outside the stopper opening 134.

[0060] In some other embodiments, the valve 130 may have a valve stem that extends axially outward from the valve body 132. In such an example, a stopper may extend laterally from the frame to the valve stem to releasably secure the valve body 132 to the valve mounting surface portion 112. Figures 11 to 14 Such examples are discussed.

[0061] Advantageously, some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein can allow the pressure relief assembly 100 to be reused after the valve body 132 is released from the frame 110. Specifically, the stop 140, such as an elastomeric loaded stop or a magnetic member as an example, can be configured to be deployed multiple times without mechanical / physical degradation, which allows a predictable minimum pressure difference to trigger the utilization of the valve body 132. For example, the reusability of the pressure relief assembly 100 can advantageously allow each component to be tested before use by an end customer. As another example, the reusability of the pressure relief assembly 100 can advantageously allow reuse by an end customer.

[0062] In some examples of the technology disclosed herein, including the examples shown, the pressure relief assembly 100 has a vent 150, wherein the term "vent" is used to refer to a component constructed of a breathable material that is configured to facilitate passive airflow. In some such embodiments, the vent 150 allows for venting of the enclosure during normal operating conditions. In embodiments where the vent 150 is incorporated into the pressure relief assembly 100, the frame 110 defines a vent mounting surface portion 116 and a vent opening 115 located within the vent mounting surface portion 116 (particularly visible at Figure 3). The vent opening 115 is functionally parallel to the valve opening 111, that is, the vent opening 115 and the valve opening 111 are arranged in parallel with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 100. In some embodiments, the vent opening 115 can also be arranged to be geometrically parallel to the valve opening 111. In some other embodiments, such as when the vent opening 115 is angled relative to the valve opening 111, the vent opening 115 is not geometrically parallel to the valve opening 111, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0063] The drain 150 is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion 116 at the drain opening 115. The drain 150 is generally configured to prevent external contaminants from entering the first axial end 102 from the second axial end 104 through the drain opening 115. The drain 150 is functionally parallel to the valve 130 with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 100. In various embodiments, the pressure relief assembly does not have a drain that is parallel to the valve 130, either functionally or geometrically. In some embodiments, the drain 150 is arranged in series with the inlet relief valve with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 100, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0064] The drain 150 is typically positioned to be in fluid communication with the enclosure. The drain 150 is configured to allow gas to pass between the enclosure and the environment external to the enclosure by flowing through the drain. In some embodiments, the drain 150 is configured to prevent particulate matter from entering the enclosure. In some embodiments, the drain 150 is also configured to prevent liquids from entering the enclosure.

[0065] The discharge member 150 can be constructed of various materials and combinations of materials. In some embodiments, the discharge member 150 is a passive airflow discharge member, that is, the discharge member 150 is configured to passively allow airflow to pass through the discharge member 150. In various embodiments, the discharge member 150 is combined with a breathable membrane. For example, the breathable membrane includes polyethersulfone (PES), nylon, cellulose acetate, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyamide, polycarbonate and acrylic acid. In various embodiments, the breathable membrane is constructed of porous polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Porous PTFE can be produced by various methods and combinations of methods generally known in the art. The discharge member 150 can be a laminate or a composite material, which includes a breathable membrane, such as a PTFE membrane laminated to a woven or non-woven support layer. In some embodiments, the discharge member 150 is a woven fabric or a non-woven fabric. The discharge member 150 can be constructed of a hydrophobic material, or the discharge member 150 can be treated to exhibit hydrophobic properties. In one example, the drain 150 is a hydrophobic woven or non-woven fabric. The drain 150 can be constructed of an oleophobic material, or the drain 150 can be treated to exhibit oleophobic properties. In one example, the drain 150 is an oleophobic woven or non-woven fabric. In some embodiments, the drain 150 has a support ring to support the periphery of the drain material. In an example, the drain 150 can be coupled to the frame 110 with an adhesive or by a welded area.

[0066] The pressure relief assembly 100 has a drain cover 152 that extends transversely over the drain 150 such that the drain 150 is positioned in the axial direction between the frame 110 and the drain cover 152. The drain cover 152 is generally spaced apart from the drain 150 in the axial direction. In some embodiments, the drain cover 152 can be a separate component that is fixed to the frame 110. In some other embodiments, the drain cover 152 is a single integral component with the frame 110. The drain cover 152 can advantageously protect the drain 150 from direct impacts of contaminants such as liquid spray and debris. As in Figure 1 and Figure 2As best seen in FIG. 1 , an environmental opening 154 can be defined between the exhaust cover 152 and the exhaust 150, the environmental opening 154 being configured to define an exhaust airflow path between the exhaust 150 and the external environment. The environmental opening 154 can be perpendicular to the exhaust. The environmental opening 154 can be positioned axially between the exhaust cover 152 and the exhaust 150. This configuration can advantageously limit the direct impact of environmental contaminants on the exhaust 150. Although the exhaust cover 152 and the valve body 132 are separate components in the current example, it should be noted that in some embodiments, the exhaust cover 152 and the valve body 132 can be a single integral component. In some embodiments, such as where the assembly 100 is configured for installation in the following operating environment, the assembly 100 does not have a exhaust cover: in this operating environment, the exhaust 150 is configured to be relatively protected from environmental contaminants such as water spray and debris.

[0067] In some embodiments, the exhaust member 150 can be arranged in series with a second valve that is oriented oppositely relative to the valve 130 discussed in detail above (which valve 130 can be referred to as the first valve). In various embodiments, the first valve is an outlet release valve. The second valve is an inlet release valve. Figure 5 An example of this is shown in Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure relief assembly 200, which is generally similar to the pressure relief assembly 200 except as noted herein. Figures 1 to 4 The pressure relief assembly is consistent with the corresponding discussion. The exhaust member 250 can be positioned between the inlet relief valve 260 and the ambient opening 254. In an example, the pressure relief assembly does not have an exhaust member in series with the outlet relief valve.

[0068] The inlet relief valve 260 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the second axial end 202 to the first axial end 204 through the pressure relief assembly 200. The inlet relief valve 260 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the external environment to an enclosure to which the pressure relief assembly is coupled.

[0069] The exhaust member 250 is generally configured to prevent external contaminants from entering the first axial end 202 from the second axial end 204 through the inlet relief valve 260, particularly when the inlet relief valve 260 is not sealed to the frame 210. The exhaust member 250 is functionally parallel to the outlet relief valve 230 with respect to air flow through the pressure relief assembly 200. The exhaust member 250 is arranged in series with the inlet relief valve 260 with respect to air flow through the pressure relief assembly 200. The exhaust member 250 is generally consistent with the discussion of exhaust members elsewhere herein. In various embodiments, the pressure relief assembly 200 does not have an exhaust member in series with the outlet relief valve 230.

[0070] Figure 6 and Figure 7 Another example of a pressure relief assembly 300 in accordance with the techniques disclosed herein is shown. Figure 6 is a perspective exploded view of the pressure relief assembly 300, and Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view. The present view also shows an exemplary enclosure 10 to which a pressure relief assembly 300 is configured to be coupled. As in the above example, the pressure relief assembly 300 is typically configured to be coupled to the enclosure 10 around the enclosure opening 12. The pressure relief assembly 300 typically has: a first axial end 302; a second axial end 304; and a valve air flow path 306 extending from the first axial end 302 through the second axial end 304. The valve air flow path 306 is selectively blocked by a valve 330, wherein the valve 330 is configured to release pressure when the pressure within the enclosure exceeds a minimum pressure differential compared to the external environment.

[0071] The pressure relief assembly 300 has a frame 310, and the valve 330 is coupled to the frame 310. The frame 310 is generally configured to support one or more components of the pressure relief assembly 300. The frame 310 has a coupling structure 320, a valve mounting surface portion 312, and a valve opening 311 located within the valve mounting surface portion 312. The valve air flow path 306 selectively extends through the valve opening 311. In the current example, the frame 310 also defines a discharge member mounting surface portion 316 and a discharge member opening 315 located within the discharge member mounting surface portion 316. The discharge member opening 315 is functionally parallel to the valve opening 311. Here, the discharge member opening 315 is also geometrically parallel to the valve opening 311. Other configurations are also possible, which will be discussed further herein.

[0072] The drain 350 is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion 316 at the drain opening 315. The drain 350 is functionally parallel to the valve 330 with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 300. However, in some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly does not have a drain. In some embodiments, the drain 350 is arranged in series with the inlet relief valve with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 300, which has been described above with reference to FIG. Figure 5 A discussion was held.

[0073] The exhaust member 350 is positioned to be in fluid communication with the interior of the enclosure 10. The exhaust member 350 is configured to allow gas to be transferred between the interior of the enclosure 10 and the external environment of the enclosure 10 by flowing through the exhaust member 350. The exhaust member 350 can be consistent with the previous discussion of the exhaust member in this article. The pressure relief assembly 300 has an exhaust member cover 352, which extends laterally on the exhaust member 350 so that the exhaust member 350 is axially positioned between the frame 310 and the exhaust member cover 352. The exhaust member cover 352 is usually spaced apart from the exhaust member in the axial direction. The exhaust member cover 352 can be consistent with the exhaust member cover discussed above. An environmental opening 354 can be defined between the exhaust member cover 352 and the exhaust member 350, and the environmental opening 354 is configured to define an exhaust member airflow path between the exhaust member 350 and the external environment. The environmental opening 354 can be perpendicular to the exhaust member 350. The ambient opening 354 may be positioned axially between the drain cover 352 and the drain 350 .

[0074] The coupling structure 320 is generally configured to be coupled to the enclosure in a sealable manner around the enclosure opening. The coupling structure 320 is generally configured to engage with the enclosure. In the current example, the coupling structure 320 has a plurality of fastener engagement portions 322, each of which is configured to receive a fastener that fastens the pressure relief assembly 300 to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the coupling structure 320 is defined toward the first axial end 302 of the pressure relief assembly 300. The coupling structure 320 may include a sealing area 324, which is configured to accommodate a seal, such as a sealing ring 326, between the pressure relief assembly 300 and the enclosure when the pressure relief assembly 300 is coupled to the enclosure. For example, in the example currently shown, the sealing area 324 may surround the valve opening 311. The sealing area 324 surrounds the valve airflow path 306. In the current example, the sealing area 324 surrounds the valve opening 311 and the discharge opening 315. The coupling structure 320 including one or more sealing areas 324 may have the configurations described above and alternative configurations.

[0075] The valve mounting surface portion 312 is generally configured to receive a valve 330 in a sealable manner around the valve opening 311. The valve 330 selectively blocks the valve air flow path 306. In the current example, the valve mounting surface portion 312 includes a sealing member 314 ( Figure 7 ), the sealing component 314 is configured to form a seal with the valve 330. In some other embodiments, the valve 330 itself may include a sealing component 314, which is configured to form a seal with the valve mounting surface portion 312.

[0076] The valve 330 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the enclosure. The valve 330 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the first axial end 302 through the frame 310 to the second axial end 304. The valve 330 has a valve body 332 that is sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion 312 over the valve opening 33 so that the valve air flow path 306 is blocked by the valve body 332. The valve body 332 can be consistent with the valve body described in detail above. However, it should be noted that in the current example, the valve body 332 is not identical to the valve body described in detail above. Figures 1 to 4 Compared to the example of , the valve body 332 has a different profile shape in the lateral direction. Figures 1 to 4 The valve body 332 has an annular contour shape, and here, the valve body 332 has a polygonal contour shape in the lateral direction.

[0077] In this example, the valve 330 has a first stop 340 that releasably secures the valve body 332 to the frame 310. The first stop 340 is configured to release the valve body 332 from the frame 310 based on a minimum pressure differential across the valve opening. In the current example, the valve 330 has a single stop 340. The stop 340 is secured to a first lateral end of the valve body 332. An engagement surface portion on the stop 340 frictionally engages the frame, but an inverse configuration is also possible, in which the stop 340 is secured to the frame and frictionally engages the valve body 332. In addition, other forces, such as magnetic forces, may engage the frame or the valve body 332. In the current example, the stop 340 is a spring-loaded stop, but the stop 340 may have alternative configurations as described above. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly may include an additional stopper 340 that releasably couples the valve body to the frame.

[0078] In the current example, the pressure relief assembly has a hinge 370 that pivotally couples the valve body 332 to the frame. The hinge 370 typically defines a translation path for the valve body 332. The hinge 370 is typically configured to provide pivoting of the valve body 332 when one or more stops 340 are utilized and pressure is applied to a surface of the valve body 332 that communicates with the enclosure, such as a force due to a minimal pressure differential across the valve body 332. The valve body 332 is typically capable of pivoting outwardly relative to the enclosure.

[0079] In the current example, the hinge 370 is positioned opposite to the first stopper 340 in the lateral direction relative to the valve body 332. The hinge 370 is positioned on a second lateral end of the valve body 332, which is opposite to the first lateral end of the valve body 332. In the current example, the hinge 370 is mutually defined by the corresponding structures of the frame 310 and the valve body 332, but in other embodiments, the hinge 370 may be a separate component that pivotally couples the valve body 332 and the frame 310.

[0080] When the pressure inside the enclosure increases to greater than the minimum pressure differential between the enclosure interior and the external environment, the pressure inside the enclosure pushes against the enclosure side of the valve body 332, thereby utilizing the stop 340 (similar to the discussion above) to release the first lateral end of the valve body 332 from the frame 310. The valve body 332 then pivots in a direction away from the enclosure in response to the pressure to clear the valve airflow path 306 and allow pressure equalization between the enclosure interior and the external environment.

[0081] In some embodiments, the valve body 332 is generally configured to keep the valve gas flow path 306 unobstructed based on a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening 311. This configuration can advantageously maximize the pressure release from the enclosure to the external environment. However, in the current example, the valve body 332 is configured to remain coupled to the frame 310 via the hinge 370 based on a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening 311.

[0082] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another pressure relief assembly 400 according to the techniques disclosed herein. As in the examples discussed above, the pressure relief assembly 400 is generally configured to be coupled to an enclosure around an opening in the enclosure. The pressure relief assembly 400 generally has a first axial end 402, a second axial end 404, and a valve air flow path 406 extending from the first axial end 402 through the second axial end 404. The valve air flow path 406 is selectively blocked by a valve 430, wherein the valve 430 is configured to release pressure when a pressure differential between an interior of the enclosure and an exterior environment exceeds a minimum pressure differential.

[0083] The pressure relief assembly 400 has a frame 410 and a valve 430 coupled to the frame 410. The frame 410 is generally consistent with the frame discussed above. The frame 410 has a coupling structure 420, a valve mounting surface portion 412, and a valve opening 411 located within the valve mounting surface portion 412. The valve airflow path 406 selectively extends through the valve opening 411. In the current example, the frame 410 also defines a discharge member mounting surface portion 416 and a discharge member opening 415 located within the discharge member mounting surface portion 416. The discharge member opening 415 is functionally parallel to the valve opening 411. Here, the discharge member opening 415 is not parallel to the valve opening 411 in terms of geometric structure. Specifically, in this example, the discharge member opening 415 is also perpendicular to the valve opening 411, but the discharge member opening 415 can form a variety of different angles with the valve opening 411. In the current example, the frame 410 defines a plurality of drain openings 415, wherein each drain opening 415 defines a drain mounting surface portion 416 surrounding the drain opening 415, but in some embodiments, the frame defines a single drain opening 415. In some embodiments, the drain openings 415 are spaced apart around an axis x extending in an axial direction. In some embodiments, the axis x may be a central axis of the frame.

[0084] More specifically, in the current example, the frame 410 has a valve side wall 418 extending in the axial direction between the first axial end 402 and the second axial end 404. The valve side wall 418 extends in the axial direction between the coupling structure 420 and the valve 430, and more specifically, the valve side wall 418 extends from the coupling structure 420 to the valve mounting surface portion 412. The valve side wall 418 surrounds the valve airflow path 406. The valve side wall 418 defines one or more discharge openings 415. Although the valve side wall 418 is perpendicular to the valve opening 411, in some embodiments, the valve side wall 418 may form a different angle with the valve opening 411.

[0085] A drain 450 is coupled to each drain mounting surface portion 416 at each drain opening 415. The drain 450 is functionally parallel to the valve 430 with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 400. However, in some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly 400 is devoid of a drain. In some embodiments, the drain 450 is arranged in series with the inlet relief valve with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 400, which has been described above with reference to Figure 5 A discussion was held.

[0086] The exhaust member 450 can be consistent with the previous discussion of the exhaust member herein. Although in the current example, the exhaust member does not have an exhaust member cover extending over each of the exhaust members in the exhaust members 450, in some other embodiments, the exhaust member cover extends over each of the exhaust members in the exhaust members 450. In embodiments incorporating an exhaust member cover, an environmental opening can be defined between the exhaust member cover and the exhaust member 450, the environmental opening being configured to define an exhaust member airflow path between the exhaust member and the external environment. The environmental opening can be perpendicular to the exhaust member 450. The environmental opening can be positioned axially between the exhaust member cover and the exhaust member 450.

[0087] The coupling structure 420 is generally configured to be coupled to the enclosure in a sealable manner around the enclosure opening. The coupling structure 420 is generally configured to engage the enclosure. In the current example, the coupling structure 420 includes a threaded portion extending axially from the frame, the threaded portion being configured to engage the inner circumferential mating surface portion of the enclosure in a rotatable manner around the enclosure opening. In this example, the coupling structure 420 is defined toward the first axial end 402 of the pressure relief assembly 400. The coupling structure 420 includes a sealing area 424, which is configured to accommodate a sealing ring 426 between the pressure relief assembly 400 and the enclosure when the pressure relief assembly 400 is coupled to the enclosure. The sealing area 424 generally surrounds the valve airflow path 406. In the current example, the sealing area 424 surrounds the threaded extension. The coupling structure 420 including one or more sealing areas 424 can have an alternative configuration to the above configuration.

[0088] The valve mounting surface portion 412 is generally configured to receive the valve 430 in a sealable manner around the valve opening 411. In the current example, the valve mounting surface portion 412 is an inner peripheral surface portion around the valve gas flow path 406. In some embodiments, the valve mounting surface portion 412 is an inner peripheral surface portion. The valve 430 selectively blocks the valve gas flow path at the valve opening 411. In the current example, the valve mounting surface portion 412 and the valve body 432 form a seal around the valve opening 411.

[0089] The valve 430 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the enclosure. The valve 430 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the first axial end 402 through the frame 410 to the second axial end 404. The valve body 432 is sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion 412 over the valve opening 411 such that the valve air flow path 406 is blocked by the valve body 432. The valve body 432 can be consistent with the valve body described in detail above.

[0090] In this example, the valve 430 has a plurality of stops 440 that releasably secure the valve body 432 to the frame 410. The stops are configured to release the valve body 432 from the frame 410 based on a minimum pressure differential across the valve opening 411. The stops 440 are arranged around an outer peripheral surface portion, such as an outer circumferential surface portion, of the valve body 432. In the current example, each of the stops 440 is a magnetic component that is configured to magnetically engage a magnetic mating surface of the valve mounting surface portion 412. The engaging surface portion on each stop 440 magnetically engages the frame. Alternative types of stops may also be used.

[0091] In some examples, although not currently visible, a hinge can pivotally couple the valve body 432 to the frame. In such examples, the hinge can define a translational path for the valve body 432. The hinge is typically configured to provide pivoting of the valve body 432 when pressure is applied to a surface of the valve body that is in communication with the enclosure, such as a force created by a minimum pressure differential across the valve body 432, and utilizing one or more stops. The valve body 432 is typically able to pivot outwardly relative to the enclosure. In embodiments incorporating a hinge, the hinge can be positioned in a lateral direction relative to the valve body opposite to one or more stops 440.

[0092] When the pressure inside the enclosure increases to be greater than the minimum pressure differential between the enclosure interior and the external environment, the pressure inside the enclosure pushes against the enclosure side of the valve body 432, thereby utilizing the stop 440 (similar to the discussion above) to disconnect the valve body 432 from the valve mounting surface portion 412. The valve body 432 can be released from the frame, or in an embodiment incorporating a hinge, the valve body 432 can pivot in a direction away from the enclosure in response to the pressure to clear the valve airflow path 406 and allow pressure equalization between the enclosure interior and the external environment.

[0093] In some embodiments, the valve body 432 is generally configured to keep the valve gas flow path 406 unobstructed based on a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening 411. This configuration can advantageously maximize the pressure release from the enclosure to the external environment. However, in the current example, the valve body 432 is configured to remain coupled to the frame 410 via a hinge, even based on a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening 411.

[0094] Fig. 9 2 shows an exploded view of yet another example of a pressure relief assembly 500 according to the technology disclosed herein, and Fig.10is a cross-sectional view according to the pressure relief assembly 500. As in the examples discussed above, the pressure relief assembly 500 is generally configured to be coupled to the enclosure around an enclosure opening. The pressure relief assembly 500 generally has a first axial end 502, a second axial end 504, and a valve air flow path 506 extending from the first axial end 502 through the second axial end 504. The valve air flow path 506 is selectively blocked by a valve 530, wherein the valve 530 is configured to release pressure when the pressure within the enclosure exceeds a minimum pressure differential compared to the external environment.

[0095] The pressure relief assembly 500 has a frame 510 and a valve 530, which is coupled to the frame 510. The frame 510 is generally configured to support one or more components of the pressure relief assembly 500. The frame 510 has a coupling structure 520, a valve mounting surface portion 512, and a valve opening 511 located within the valve mounting surface portion 512. The valve air flow path 506 selectively extends through the valve opening 511. In the current example, the frame 510 also defines a discharge member mounting surface portion 516 and a discharge member opening 515 located within the discharge member mounting surface portion 516. The discharge member opening 515 is functionally parallel to the valve opening 511. Here, the discharge member opening 515 is also geometrically parallel to the valve opening 511. The frame has a barrier wall 517, which separates the valve opening 511 from the discharge member opening 515. Other configurations discussed above are also possible.

[0096] The drain 550 is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion 516 at the drain opening 515. The drain 550 is functionally parallel to the valve 530 with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 500. However, in some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly 500 is devoid of a drain. In some embodiments, the drain 550 is arranged in series with the inlet relief valve with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 500, which has been described above with reference to FIG. Figure 5 A discussion was held.

[0097] The exhaust member 550 is configured to define a portion of the exhaust member gas flow path 556. The exhaust member 550 is configured to allow gas to pass between the first axial end 502 and the second axial end 504 through the exhaust member 550. The exhaust member 550 can be consistent with the previous discussion of the exhaust member in this article. The pressure relief assembly 500 has an exhaust member cover 552 that extends laterally on the exhaust member 550 so that the exhaust member 550 is positioned between the frame 510 and the exhaust member cover 552 in the axial direction. The exhaust member cover 552 is generally spaced apart from the exhaust member 550 in the axial direction.

[0098] The exhaust cover 552 defines an environmental opening 554 that is configured to define a portion of the exhaust airflow path 556 from the exhaust 550 to the external environment. In some examples, the environmental opening 554 is not perpendicular to the exhaust, such as being parallel to the exhaust. In the current example, the environmental opening 554 is perpendicular to the exhaust. In particular, the exhaust cover 552 has Fig.10 554, wherein the transversely extending inlay segments 553 overlap in the axial direction with the corresponding transversely extending outer wall openings 554 to form a tortuous flow path through the discharge cover 552. In this example, the transversely extending inlay segments 553 are axially spaced apart from the transversely extending outer segments 557. The environmental opening 554 is positioned between the inlay segments 553 and the outer segments 557.

[0099] The coupling structure 520 is generally configured to be coupled to the enclosure in a sealable manner around the enclosure opening. The coupling structure 520 is generally configured to engage the enclosure. In the current example, the coupling structure 520 has a bayonet connector 522 that is configured to be received by a mating bayonet connector defined by the enclosure. In this example, the coupling structure 520 is defined toward the first axial end 502 of the pressure relief assembly 500. The coupling structure 520 may include a sealing area 524 that is configured to accommodate a seal, such as a sealing ring 526, between the pressure relief assembly 500 and the enclosure when the pressure relief assembly 500 is coupled to the enclosure. For example, in the current example shown, the sealing area 524 may surround the valve opening 511. The sealing area 524 surrounds the valve airflow path 506. In the current example, the sealing area 524 surrounds the valve opening 511 and the discharge opening 515. The coupling structure 520 including one or more sealing areas 524 may have the configuration already described above or an alternative configuration.

[0100] The valve mounting surface portion 512 is generally configured to receive the valve 520 in a sealable manner around the valve opening 511. The valve 530 selectively blocks the valve gas flow path 506. In the current example, the valve mounting surface portion 512 includes a sealing member 514 that is configured to form a seal with the valve 530. In some other embodiments, the valve 530 itself may include a sealing member that is configured to form a seal with the valve mounting surface portion 512.

[0101] In the current example, the pressure relief assembly 500 has a sealing annular member 590, which is coupled to the frame 510. It should be noted that the term "annular member" does not necessarily refer to a component having an annular shape, but the sealing annular member can certainly have an annular shape. On the contrary, the term "annular member" is used herein to refer to the following structure: the structure has a central opening and a material portion completely surrounding the central opening. The sealing annular member 590 has a first axial end and a second axial end and a valve opening, the first axial end being a sealing ring 526, and the second axial end forming a peripheral sealing surface around the valve opening 511. A portion of the peripheral sealing surface defines a portion of the sealing member 514 between the valve 530 and the frame 110. In some embodiments, the frame 510 can be overmolded to the sealing annular member 590. In some embodiments, the sealing annular member 590 can have a series of discrete axial extensions 592, which connect the first axial end 502 and the second axial end 504. The discrete axially extending portions 592 can be radially spaced about the central axis. More specifically, the discrete axially extending portions 592 can be radially spaced about the valve opening 511 and the discharge opening 515.

[0102] In the present example, the barrier seal 518 extends along the barrier wall 517 between the vent opening 515 and the valve opening 511 to form another portion of the sealing component 514 between the valve 530 and the frame 110. In some other embodiments, multiple discrete components can define various sealing areas between the pressure relief assembly 500 and the enclosure and between the frame 110 and the valve 530 around the valve opening 511.

[0103] The valve 530 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the enclosure. The valve 530 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the first axial end 502 through the frame 510 to the second axial end 504. The valve 530 has a valve body 532 that is sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion 512 over the valve opening 511 such that the valve air flow path 506 is blocked by the valve body 532. The valve body 532 can be consistent with the valve body described in detail above. However, it should be noted that the valve body 532 is similar to the valve body described in detail above. Figures 1 to 4 Compared to the examples of the present invention, in the present example, the valve body 532 has a different profile shape in the lateral direction. In the present example, the valve body 532 and the drain cover 552 are formed by a single integral component, which is referred to herein as a "cover" 580. The cover 580 is both the valve body 532 and the drain cover 552. In the present example, the cover 580 forms a seal with the frame around the valve opening 511. In particular, the cover 580 and the frame 110 form a seal via a sealing member 514 around the valve opening 511.

[0104] In this example, the valve 530 has a first stopper 540 that releasably secures the valve body 532 to the frame 510. The first stopper 540 is configured to release the valve body 532 from the frame 510 when the pressure differential across the valve opening 511 is minimal. In the current example, the valve 530 has a single stopper 540. The stopper 540 is secured to the cover 580, which is also the valve body 532. An engagement surface portion on the stopper 540 frictionally engages a mating surface portion 545 of the frame 510, but an inverted configuration is also possible in which the stopper 540 is secured to the frame and frictionally engages the cover 580 and / or the valve body 532. In addition, the stopper may employ additional or different forces, such as magnetic forces, to engage the frame 510 and the valve body 532. In the current example, the stopper 540 is a spring loaded stopper, but the stopper 540 may have alternative configurations as described above. In addition, in some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly may include an additional stopper 540 that releasably couples the valve body 540 to the frame.

[0105] In the present example, the pressure relief assembly has hinges 570a, 570b that pivotally couple the valve body 532 to the frame 510. The hinges 570a, 570b generally define a translation path for the valve body 532. The hinges 570a, 570b are generally configured to provide pivoting of the cover 580 and in particular the valve body 532 when pressure is applied to a surface of the valve body 532 that communicates with the enclosure, such as a force due to a minimum pressure differential across the valve body 532, thereby utilizing one or more stops 540. The cover 580 is generally capable of pivoting outwardly relative to the enclosure.

[0106] In the present example, the hinges 570a, 570b are positioned opposite to the first stopper 540 in the lateral direction relative to the valve body 532. The hinges 570a, 570b are positioned on the second lateral end 584 of the cover 580 and thus on the second lateral end 584 of the valve body 532, which is opposite to the first lateral end 582 of the cover 580. In the present example, the hinges 570a, 570b are mutually defined by the respective structures of the frame 510 and the cover 580. In some embodiments, the hinges 570a, 570b may be separate components that pivotally couple the cover 580 and the frame 510.

[0107] When the pressure inside the enclosure (to which the pressure relief assembly 500 is coupled) increases to a level greater than the minimum pressure differential between the enclosure interior and the external environment, the pressure inside the enclosure pushes against the enclosure side of the cover 580 / valve body 532, thereby utilizing the stop 540 (similar to the discussion above) to decouple the first lateral end 582 of the valve body 532 from the frame 510. The valve body 532 then pivots in a direction away from the enclosure in response to the pressure to clear the valve airflow path 506 and allow pressure equalization between the enclosure interior and the external environment.

[0108] In some embodiments, the valve body 532 is generally configured to keep the valve gas flow path 506 unobstructed when the pressure differential across the valve opening 511 is minimized. This configuration can advantageously maximize the pressure release from the closure to the external environment. However, in the current example, the valve body 532 is configured to remain coupled to the frame 510 via the hinges 570a, 570b when the pressure differential across the valve opening 511 is minimized.

[0109] Fig.11 and Fig.12 Another example of a pressure relief assembly 600 in accordance with the techniques disclosed herein is shown. Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of the pressure relief assembly 600, and Fig.12 is a perspective exploded cross-sectional view of a pressure relief assembly 600. This figure also shows an exemplary enclosure 10 to which the pressure relief assembly 600 is configured to be coupled. As in the examples discussed above, the pressure relief assembly 600 is typically configured to be coupled to the enclosure 10 around the enclosure opening 12. The pressure relief assembly 600 typically has a first axial end 602, a second axial end 604, and a valve air flow path 606 extending from the first axial end 602 through the second axial end 604. The valve air flow path 606 is selectively blocked by a valve 630, wherein the valve 630 is configured to release pressure when the pressure within the enclosure exceeds a minimum pressure differential compared to the external environment.

[0110] The pressure relief assembly 600 has a frame 610, and the valve 630 is coupled to the frame 610. The frame 610 is generally configured to support one or more components of the pressure relief assembly 600. The frame 610 has a coupling structure 620, a valve mounting surface portion 612, and a valve opening 611 ( Fig.12 ). The valve airflow path 606 selectively extends through the valve opening 611. Unlike some embodiments discussed above, the frame 610 does not specifically define a drain mounting surface portion and a drain opening located within the drain mounting surface portion. However, in some other embodiments, the frame may define a drain mounting surface portion and a drain opening located within the drain mounting surface portion.

[0111] The coupling structure 620 is generally configured to be sealably coupled to the enclosure 10 about the enclosure opening 12. The coupling structure 620 is generally configured to engage the enclosure 10. The coupling structure 620 is defined toward the second axial end 604 of the pressure relief assembly 600. In the current example, the coupling structure 620 is configured to form a compression fit with the enclosure 10 about the enclosure opening 12. The coupling structure 620 may include a sealing area 624 configured to accommodate a seal, such as a sealing ring 626, between the pressure relief assembly 600 and the enclosure 10 when the pressure relief assembly 600 is coupled to the enclosure 10. The sealing area 624 may surround the valve opening 611. The sealing area 624 surrounds the valve airflow path 606. In the current example, the sealing area 624 surrounds the valve opening 611.

[0112] In the current example, the connecting structure 620 includes an inner retaining ring 627 and an outer retaining ring 628, each of which extends radially outward from the frame 610. The inner retaining ring 627 is configured to be positioned within the enclosure 10. The outer retaining ring 628 is configured to be positioned outside the enclosure 10. The inner retaining ring 627 and the outer retaining ring 628 form a peripheral gap 629 extending in the axial direction, which is configured to receive the wall of the enclosure 10 surrounding the enclosure opening 12. The peripheral gap 629 is configured to receive the wall of the enclosure 10 and the sealing ring 626 in a compressible manner. In the current example, the outer retaining ring 628 is a plurality of discrete parts that are spaced circumferentially around the frame 610, but in other examples, the outer retaining ring 628 can be a single integral component extending circumferentially around the frame 610.

[0113] The coupling structure 620 including one or more sealing areas 624 can have the configurations already described above and alternative configurations. For example, in some other embodiments, similar to the above examples, the coupling structure 620 can have a plurality of fastener receiving portions, each of which is configured to receive a fastener that fastens the pressure relief assembly 600 to the enclosure.

[0114] The valve mounting surface portion 612 is generally configured to receive a valve 630 in a sealable manner around the valve opening 611. The valve 630 selectively blocks the valve gas flow path 606. In the current example, the valve 630 itself may include a sealing member 614 that is configured to form a seal with the valve mounting surface portion 612. In some other embodiments, the valve mounting surface portion 612 includes a sealing member 614 that is configured to form a seal with the valve 630.

[0115] The valve 630 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the enclosure 10. The valve 630 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the first axial end 602 through the frame 610 to the second axial end 604. The valve 630 has a valve body 632 that is arranged on the valve mounting surface portion 612 in a sealable manner on the valve opening 611 so that the valve air flow path 606 is blocked by the valve body 632. The valve body 632 can be consistent with the valve body described in detail above. In the current example, the valve body 632 has an annular contour shape in the lateral direction, but the valve body has an alternative contour shape, such as a polygon.

[0116] In the present example, the pressure relief assembly 600 and in particular the frame 610 has a first stop 640 that releasably secures the valve body 632 to the frame 610. The first stop 640 is configured to release the valve body 632 from the frame 610 when the pressure differential across the valve opening 611 is minimal. In the present example, the assembly 600 has a single stop 640. The stop 640 is secured to the frame 610. An engagement surface portion 644 on the stop 640 frictionally engages the valve 630, but an inverted configuration is also possible in which the stop 640 is secured to the valve 630 and frictionally engages the frame 610. Additionally, different or additional forces, such as magnetic forces, may engage the frame 610 as well as engage the valve 630. In the present example, the stop 640 is an elastic member loaded stop and has the same configuration as described above with reference to FIG. Figures 1 to 4 The configuration described above is similar to the configuration described above, but the stopper 640 can have an alternative configuration also described above. In addition, in some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly can include an additional stopper 640 that releasably couples the valve body 632 to the frame 610.

[0117] In the present example, the valve 630 has a valve body 632 and a valve stem 636. The valve stem 636 extends axially outward from the valve body 632 toward the first end 602 of the assembly 600. The valve stem 636 defines a mating surface portion 645 that is frictionally engaged by an engagement surface portion 644 of the stop 640. When the pressure in the enclosure 10 increases to obtain a minimum pressure differential between the enclosure 10 and the external environment, the force between the valve 630 and the stop engagement surface portion 644 increases until the biasing force of the compression resilient member 646 is overcome, thereby causing a lateral translation of the stop engagement surface portion 644 against the compression resilient member 646 toward the first end of the stop accommodating portion 642. The pressure differential between the enclosure 10 and the external environment causes a force that pushes the valve body 632 outward from the valve opening 611, which is not resisted by the stop 640. The valve body 632 is vented in response to the pressure differential in a direction away from the enclosure 10 to clear the valve airflow path 606 and allow pressure equalization between the interior of the enclosure 10 and the external environment. In some embodiments, the valve body 632 is configured to clear the valve airflow path 606 when the pressure differential across the valve opening 611 is minimal.

[0118] Fig.13 and Fig.14 Yet another example of a pressure relief assembly 700 in accordance with the techniques disclosed herein is shown. Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of the pressure relief assembly 700, and Fig.14 is a perspective exploded cross-sectional view of a pressure relief assembly 700. This figure also shows an exemplary enclosure 10 to which the pressure relief assembly 700 is configured to be coupled. As in the examples discussed above, the pressure relief assembly 700 is typically configured to be coupled to the enclosure 10 around an enclosure opening 12. The pressure relief assembly 700 typically has a first axial end 702, a second axial end 704, and a valve airflow path 706 extending from the first axial end 702 through the second axial end 704. The valve airflow path 706 is selectively blocked by a valve 730, wherein the valve 730 is configured to release pressure when the pressure within the enclosure exceeds a minimum pressure differential compared to the external environment.

[0119] The pressure relief assembly 700 has a frame 710, and the valve 730 is coupled to the frame 710. The frame 710 is generally configured to support one or more components of the pressure relief assembly 700. The frame 710 has a coupling structure 720, a valve mounting surface portion 712, and a valve opening 711 ( Fig.12 ). The valve air flow path 706 selectively extends through the valve opening 711.

[0120] In the current example, the pressure relief assembly 700 incorporates a drain 750. Unlike some embodiments described elsewhere herein, in the current example, the frame 710 does not define a drain opening separate from the valve opening 711. Instead, the valve opening 711 overlaps the drain opening 715. In the current example, the valve body 732 defines a drain opening 715 and a drain mounting surface portion 716 surrounding the drain opening 715. The drain 750 is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion 716 at the drain opening 715. With respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 700, the drain 750 is functionally parallel to the valve 730. However, in some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly 700, such as the one described above with reference to FIG. Figure 11 to Figure 12 The pressure relief assembly in the described example does not have a vent. In some embodiments, the vent 750 is arranged in series with the inlet relief valve with respect to the airflow through the pressure relief assembly 700, which has been described above with reference to Figure 5 A discussion was held.

[0121] The exhaust member 750 is positioned to be in fluid communication with the interior of the enclosure 10. The exhaust member 750 is configured to allow gas to be transferred between the interior of the enclosure 10 and the external environment of the enclosure 10 by flowing through the exhaust member 750. The exhaust member 750 can be consistent with the previous discussion of the exhaust member in this article. The pressure relief assembly 700 has an exhaust member cover 752, which extends laterally on the exhaust member 750 so that the exhaust member 750 is positioned between the frame 710 and the exhaust member cover 752 in the axial direction. The exhaust member cover 752 is generally spaced apart from the exhaust member 750 in the axial direction. The exhaust member cover 752 can be consistent with the exhaust member cover discussed above. In the current example, the exhaust member cover 752 is defined with an environmental opening 754, which defines the exhaust member airflow path between the exhaust member 750 and the external environment. In some embodiments, the ambient opening 754 may be perpendicular to the drain 750 , but in the present example, the ambient opening 754 is geometrically parallel to the drain 750 .

[0122] The coupling structure 720 is generally configured to be sealably coupled to the enclosure 10 around the enclosure opening 12. The coupling structure 720 is generally configured to engage the enclosure 10 and may be consistent with other coupling structures and variations thereof described elsewhere herein. Figure 11 to Figure 12, the coupling structure 720 is configured to form a compression fit with the enclosure 10 around the enclosure opening 12. The coupling structure 720 may include a sealing area 724 configured to receive a seal, such as a sealing ring 726, between the pressure relief assembly 700 and the enclosure 10 when the pressure relief assembly 700 is coupled to the enclosure 10. The coupling structure 720 has an inner retaining ring 727 and an outer retaining ring 728, each of which extends radially outward from the frame 710 and forms a peripheral gap 729 extending in an axial direction, which is configured to receive a wall of the enclosure 10 around the enclosure opening 12. The peripheral gap 729 is configured to receive the wall of the enclosure 10 and the sealing ring 726 in a compressible manner.

[0123] The valve mounting surface portion 712 is configured to receive the valve 730 in a sealable manner around the valve opening 711. The valve 730 and the drain 750 selectively block the valve gas flow path 706. In this example, the valve mounting surface portion 712 includes a sealing member 714 that is configured to form a seal with the valve 730. In some other embodiments, the valve 730 itself may include a sealing member 714 that is configured to form a seal with the valve mounting surface portion 712.

[0124] The valve 730 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the enclosure 10. The valve 730 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the first axial end 702 through the frame 710 to the second axial end 704. The valve 730 has a valve body 732, which is arranged on the valve mounting surface portion 712 on the valve opening 711 so that the valve air flow path 706 is blocked by the valve body 732 and the discharge member 750. The valve body 732 can be consistent with the valve body described in detail above. In the current example, the valve body 732 has an annular contour shape in the lateral direction, but the valve body 732 has an alternative contour shape, such as a polygonal contour shape.

[0125] In the current example, the pressure relief assembly 700 and in particular the valve 730 has a first stop 740 that releasably secures the valve body 732 to the frame 710. The first stop 740 is configured to release the valve 730 when the pressure differential across the valve opening 711 is minimal. In the current example, the assembly 700 has a single stop 740. The stop 740 is secured to the valve 730. An engaging surface portion 744 on the stop 740 frictionally engages the frame 710, but an inverted configuration is also possible in which the stop 740 is secured to the frame 710 and frictionally engages the valve 730. An example of an inverted configuration is described above. Additionally, different or additional forces, such as magnetic forces, may engage the frame 710 and engage the valve 730. In the current example, the stop 740 is an elastically loaded stop and has the same configuration as described above with reference to FIG. Figures 1 to 4 The configuration described above is similar to the configuration described above, but the stopper 740 can have an alternative configuration also described above. In addition, in some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly can include an additional stopper 740 that releasably couples the valve body 732 to the frame 710.

[0126] In the present example, the valve 730 has a valve body 732 and a valve stem 736. The valve stem 736 extends outwardly in an axial direction from the valve body 732 toward the first end 702 of the assembly 700. The valve stem 736 defines a stopper receiving portion to which the stopper 740 is fixed. The frame 710 has a mating surface portion 745, which is frictionally engaged by the engagement surface portion 744 of the stopper 740. When the pressure in the enclosure 10 increases to obtain a minimum pressure difference between the enclosure 10 and the external environment, the force between the frame 710 and the stopper engagement surface portion 744 increases until the biasing force of the compression elastic member 746 is overcome, thereby causing a lateral translation of the stopper engagement surface portion 744 against the compression elastic member toward the first end of the stopper receiving portion 742. The pressure differential between the enclosure 10 and the external environment causes a force that pushes the valve body 732 outward from the valve opening, which overcomes the force applied by the stopper 740 to maintain the valve 730 in engagement with the frame 710. The valve body 732 is expelled in a direction away from the enclosure 10 in response to the pressure differential to clear the valve gas flow path 706 and allow pressure to equalize between the interior of the enclosure 10 and the external environment. In some embodiments, the valve body 732 is configured to clear the valve gas flow path 706 when the pressure differential across the valve opening 711 is minimal.

[0127] Fig.15 Yet another example of a pressure relief assembly 800 in accordance with the techniques disclosed herein is shown. Fig.15is a perspective exploded cross-sectional view of a pressure relief assembly 800. As in the examples discussed above, the pressure relief assembly 800 is generally configured to be coupled to an enclosure around an opening in the enclosure. The pressure relief assembly 800 generally has a first axial end 802, a second axial end 804, and a valve air flow path 806 extending from the first axial end 802 through the second axial end 804. The valve air flow path 806 is selectively blocked by a valve 830, wherein the valve 830 is configured to release pressure when a pressure differential between the interior of the enclosure and the external environment exceeds a minimum pressure differential.

[0128] The pressure relief assembly 800 has a frame 810, and the valve 830 is coupled to the frame 810. The frame 810 is generally configured to support one or more components of the pressure relief assembly 800. The frame 810 has a coupling structure 820.

[0129] In the current example, the frame 810 defines a valve opening 811. The valve air flow path 806 selectively extends through the valve opening 811. In the current example, the pressure relief assembly 800 is combined with a drain 850. Unlike some embodiments described elsewhere herein, in the current example, the valve 830 has a valve sidewall 818 that extends in an axial direction between the first axial end 802 and the second axial end 804. The valve sidewall 818 extends from the drain cover 852 to the drain mounting surface portion 816. The valve sidewall 818 surrounds the drain mounting surface portion 816. Although the valve sidewall 818 is perpendicular to the valve opening 811, in some embodiments, the valve sidewall 818 can form a different angle with the valve opening 811. The valve sidewall 818 defines one or more environmental openings 854. An environmental opening 854 may be defined between the discharge member 850 and the discharge member mounting surface portion 816, the environmental opening 854 being configured to define a discharge member airflow path between the discharge member 850 and the external environment. The environmental opening 854 may be perpendicular to the discharge member 850. The environmental opening 854 may be positioned axially between the discharge member 850 and the discharge member mounting surface portion 816. In the current example, the valve side wall 818 defines a plurality of environmental openings 854, but in some embodiments, the valve side wall 818 defines a single environmental opening 854. In some embodiments, the environmental openings 854 are spaced apart around an axis x extending in an axial direction. In some embodiments, the axis x may be a central axis of the frame 810.

[0130] In the current example, the pressure relief assembly 800 is incorporated with a drain 850. Unlike some embodiments described elsewhere herein, in the current example. the frame 810 does not define a drain opening 815 that is separate from the valve opening 811. Instead, the valve opening 811 overlaps with the drain opening 815. In the current example, the valve body 832 defines a drain opening 815 and a drain mounting surface portion 816 surrounding the drain opening 815. The drain 850 is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion 816 at the drain opening 815. With respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 800, the drain 850 is functionally parallel to the valve 830. However, in some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly 800 is free of a drain. In some embodiments, with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 800, the drain 850 is arranged in series with the inlet relief valve, which has been described above with reference to. Figure 5 A discussion was held.

[0131] The exhaust member 850 is configured to be positioned to be in fluid communication with the interior of an enclosure (not currently shown, but examples of the enclosure are described and shown elsewhere herein). The exhaust member 850 is configured to allow gas to be transferred between the interior of the enclosure and the external environment of the enclosure by flowing through the exhaust member 850. The exhaust member 850 can be consistent with the previous discussion of the exhaust member herein. The pressure relief assembly 800 has an exhaust member cover 852 that extends laterally on the exhaust member 850 so that the exhaust member 850 is positioned between the frame 810 and the exhaust member cover 852 in the axial direction. The exhaust member cover 852 is generally spaced apart from the exhaust member 850 in the axial direction. The exhaust member cover 852 can be consistent with the exhaust member cover discussed above. In the current example, the exhaust member cover 852 does not define an environmental opening between the exhaust member 850 and the external environment.

[0132] The coupling structure 820 is generally configured to be sealably coupled to the enclosure around the enclosure opening, and the coupling structure 820 can be consistent with other coupling structures and modifications thereof described elsewhere herein. Figure 8As described above, the connecting structure 820 is generally configured to engage the enclosure. The connecting structure 820 includes a sealing area 824, which is configured to accommodate a sealing ring 826 between the pressure relief assembly 800 and the enclosure when the pressure relief assembly 800 is connected to the enclosure. In the current example, the connecting structure 820 includes a threaded portion that extends axially from the sealing area 824. The threaded portion is configured to engage with the inner circumferential mating surface portion of the enclosure in a rotatable manner around the enclosure opening. In this example, the connecting structure 820 is defined toward the first axial end 802 of the pressure relief assembly 800. The sealing area 824 generally surrounds the valve airflow path 806. In the current example, the sealing area 824 surrounds the threaded portion. The connecting structure 820 including one or more sealing areas 824 can have alternative configurations that have been described above.

[0133] In the present example, the frame 810 further defines a valve mounting surface portion 812. The valve mounting surface portion 812 is configured to receive the valve 830 in a sealable manner around the valve opening 811. In the present example, the valve mounting surface portion 812 can be consistent with the valve mounting surface portion described in detail above. The valve 830 and the discharge member 850 selectively block the valve airflow path 806. In the present example, the valve 830 includes a sealing member 814, which is configured to form a seal with the valve mounting surface portion 812. In some other embodiments, the valve mounting surface portion 812 includes a sealing member 814, which is configured to form a seal with the valve 830.

[0134] The valve 830 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the enclosure. The valve 830 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the first axial end 802 through the frame 810 to the second axial end 804. The valve body 832 is sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion 812 over the valve opening 811 such that the valve airflow path 806 is blocked by the valve body 832. The valve body 832 can be consistent with the valve body described in detail above.

[0135] In this example, the valve 830 has a plurality of stops 840 that releasably fix the valve body 832 to the frame 810. The stops are configured to release the valve body 832 from the frame 810 when the pressure difference across the valve opening 811 is minimal. The stops 840 are arranged around the outer peripheral surface portion, such as the outer peripheral surface portion, of the valve body 832. One or more stops 840 may have various configurations. In the current example, each of the stops 840 is an elastic member loaded stop. The elastic member loaded stop is a stop that uses a compression elastic member to fix the valve 830 to the frame 810, and the elastic force is overcome by the release force to release the valve 830 from the frame 810. Each stop 840 extends from the frame 810 to the valve body 832 in the lateral direction. In the current example, each stop 840 is fixed to the valve body 832, and each stop 840 engages the frame 810 in a frictional manner, but an inverted configuration is also possible, in which each stop 840 is fixed to the frame 810 and engages the valve body 832 in a frictional manner. In addition, other types of engagement, such as magnetic engagement, are also possible. Each stop 840 can have an alternative configuration that has been described above.

[0136] In the current example, the stop 840 releasably secures the valve body 832 to the frame 810. Although not currently visible, in some examples, a hinge can pivotally couple the valve body 832 to the frame 810. The hinge can be consistent with the hinge described in detail above.

[0137] When the pressure inside the enclosure increases to be greater than the minimum pressure differential between the interior of the enclosure and the external environment, the pressure inside the enclosure pushes against the enclosure side of the valve body 832, thereby utilizing the stop 840 (similar to the discussion above) to disconnect the valve body 832 from the valve mounting surface portion 812. The valve body 832 can be released from the frame 810, or in an embodiment incorporating a hinge, the valve body 832 can pivot in a direction away from the enclosure in response to pressure to clear the valve airflow path 806 and allow pressure equalization between the interior of the enclosure and the external environment.

[0138] In this example, the frame 810 has a frame sidewall 813. The frame sidewall 813 is positioned radially outside the valve sidewall 818. The frame sidewall 813 surrounds the valve sidewall 818. In the current example, the valve sidewall 818 and the frame sidewall 813 share a central axis. In the current example, the valve sidewall 818 and the frame sidewall 813 are spaced apart via a radial gap between the valve sidewall 818 and the frame sidewall 813. In some embodiments, the frame sidewall 813 and the valve sidewall 818 define a tortuous flow path from the external environment through the environmental opening 854 to the discharge member 850. As used herein, "tortuous flow path" means that there is no direct line of sight from the second axial end 804 to the discharge member 850. This configuration can advantageously prevent liquid or debris from directly affecting the discharge member. In some other embodiments, such as some other embodiments described elsewhere in this article, there is no tortuous flow path from the external environment through the environmental opening 854 to the discharge member 850. In some embodiments, the frame sidewall defines one or more openings 813.

[0139] In some embodiments, the valve body 832 is generally configured to keep the valve gas flow path 806 unobstructed when the pressure differential across the valve opening 811 is minimal. This configuration can be consistent with the valve body described in detail above.

[0140] Fig.16 Yet another example of a pressure relief assembly 900 in accordance with the techniques disclosed herein is shown. Fig.16 is a perspective exploded cross-sectional view of the pressure relief assembly 900 . Fig.17 is an exploded view of the pressure relief assembly 900 viewed from a second angle, and Fig.18 yes Fig.16 900. As in the examples discussed above, the pressure relief assembly 900 is generally configured to be coupled to the enclosure 10 about an opening 12 in the enclosure 10. The pressure relief assembly 900 generally has a first axial end 902, a second axial end 904, and a valve air flow path 906 extending from the first axial end 902 through the second axial end 904. The valve air flow path 906 is selectively blocked by a valve 930, wherein the valve 930 is configured to release pressure when a pressure differential between an interior of the enclosure and an exterior environment exceeds a minimum pressure differential.

[0141] The pressure relief assembly 900 has a frame 910, and the valve 930 is coupled to the frame 910. The frame 910 is generally configured to support one or more components of the pressure relief assembly 900. The frame 910 has a coupling structure 920. The coupling structure 920 can be consistent with the coupling structure described in detail above.

[0142] In the present example, the frame 910 defines a valve opening 911. The valve airflow path 906 selectively extends through the valve opening 911. In the present example, the pressure relief assembly 900 incorporates a vent 950. As described above with reference to Fig.15 As described, in the current example, the valve 930 has an axial sidewall 918 extending from the discharge cover 952 to the discharge mounting surface portion 916 in the axial direction. The axial sidewall 918 surrounds the discharge mounting surface portion 916. The axial sidewall 918 defines one or more environmental openings 954. The environmental opening 954 can be defined between the discharge 950 and the discharge mounting surface portion 916. The environmental opening 954 defines a portion of the discharge airflow path between the discharge 950 and the external environment. The environmental opening 954 can be perpendicular to the discharge 950. The environmental opening 954 can be positioned axially between the discharge 950 and the discharge mounting surface portion 916. In the current example, the axial sidewall 918 defines a plurality of environmental openings 954, but in some embodiments, the axial sidewall 918 defines a single environmental opening 954. In some embodiments, the environmental openings 954 are spaced apart around an axis x extending in the axial direction. Axis x may be the central axis of frame 910. Valve 930 and ambient opening 954 may be consistent with the description above.

[0143] The exhaust member 950 is configured to be positioned in fluid communication with the interior of the enclosure 10 ( Fig.16 and Fig.18 ). The exhaust member 950 is configured to allow gas to pass between the interior of the enclosure 10 and the external environment of the enclosure 10 by flowing through the exhaust member 950. The exhaust member 950 can be consistent with the previous discussion of the exhaust member in this document. The pressure relief assembly 900 has a exhaust member cover 952 that extends laterally on the exhaust member 950 so that the exhaust member 950 is positioned between the frame 910 and the exhaust member cover 952 in the axial direction. The exhaust member cover 952 is generally spaced apart from the exhaust member 950 in the axial direction. The exhaust member cover 952 can be consistent with the exhaust member cover discussed above. In the current example, the exhaust member cover 952 does not define an environmental opening between the exhaust member 950 and the external environment. The connecting structure 920 is generally configured to be connected to the enclosure 10 in a sealable manner around the enclosure opening 12, and the connecting structure 920 can be consistent with other connecting structures and modifications thereof described elsewhere in this document. The coupling structure 920 is generally configured to engage the enclosure 1. In the current example, similar to Fig. 9As described above, the coupling structure 920 has a bayonet connector 922 that is configured to be received by a mating bayonet connector defined by the enclosure 10. In this example, the coupling structure 920 is defined toward the first axial end 902 of the pressure relief assembly 900. The coupling structure 920 may include a sealing area 924 that is configured to accommodate a seal, such as a sealing ring 926, between the pressure relief assembly 900 and the enclosure 10 when the pressure relief assembly 900 is connected to the enclosure 10. For example, in the example currently described, the sealing area 924 may surround the valve opening 911. The sealing area 924 surrounds the valve airflow path 906. The coupling structure 920 including one or more sealing areas 924 may have the configurations already described above and alternative configurations.

[0144] The valve 930 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the enclosure. The valve 930 is generally configured to provide pressure relief from the first axial end 902 through the frame 910 to the second axial end 904. The valve body 932 is sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion 912 over the valve opening 911 such that the valve gas flow path 906 is blocked by the valve body 932. The valve body 932, the valve 930, and the valve mounting surface portion 912 can be consistent with the valve bodies already described in detail above.

[0145] In this example, the valve 930 has a plurality of stops 940 that releasably secure the valve body 932 to the frame 910. The stops are configured to release the valve body 932 from the frame 910 when the pressure differential across the valve opening 911 is minimal. The stops 940 are arranged around an outer peripheral surface portion, such as an outer circumferential surface portion, of the valve body 932. In the present example, the stops 940 may be consistent with the valve body described in detail above.

[0146] When the pressure inside the enclosure increases to be greater than the minimum pressure differential between the interior of the enclosure and the external environment, the pressure inside the enclosure pushes against the enclosure side of the valve body 932, thereby utilizing the stop 940 (similar to that discussed above) to disconnect the valve body 932 from the valve mounting surface portion 912. The mechanism utilized can be consistent with the valve body described in detail above.

[0147] In some embodiments, the valve body 932 is generally configured to clear the valve gas flow path 906 when the pressure differential across the valve opening 911 is minimal. This configuration can be consistent with the valve body described in detail above.

[0148] In the present example, the pressure relief assembly 900 incorporates a drain 950. In the present example, the valve body 932 defines a drain opening 915 and a drain mounting surface portion 916 surrounding the drain opening 915. The drain 950 is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion 916 at the drain opening 915. The drain 950 is functionally parallel to the valve 930 with respect to airflow through the pressure relief assembly 900. The drain opening 915 may be consistent with the drain opening described in detail above.

[0149] In this example, the frame 910 has a frame side wall 913, which is similar to the frame side wall 913 described above with reference to Fig.15 The frame sidewall 913 is configured to be positioned radially outward of the valve sidewall 818 .

[0150] In this example, the pressure relief assembly 900 has a guard 960. The guard 960 is generally configured to prevent material from within the enclosure 10 from passing through and leaving the enclosure 10, especially when the valve body 932 has been released from the frame 910. The guard 960 generally extends across the airflow path 906. The guard is generally configured to be fixed relative to the valve airflow path 906. In some embodiments, the guard 960 extends across the exhaust airflow path. In this example, the guard 960 defines a plurality of openings 964, which are spaced laterally across the valve airflow path 906. In various embodiments, the guard 960 defines a plurality of openings 964, which are spaced laterally across the exhaust airflow path. The guard 960 can have a suitable number of openings 964, and each of the openings 964 can have any suitable opening shape. Examples of suitable axial cross-sectional shapes of the openings 964 include rectangular, annular, polygonal, and irregular shapes. The openings 964 are typically sized to block the passage of particles having a minimum size. In particular, each of the openings 964 has a cross-sectional area that is less than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the particles that the guard 964 is configured to block.

[0151] The guard 960 is generally positioned toward the first axial end 902 of the assembly 900. In an embodiment, the exhaust assembly may include more than one guard 960. In an embodiment, the guard 960 may include a plurality of layers stacked in an axial direction, wherein each layer defines a plurality of openings. In one such example, the plurality of openings in one layer are not aligned in the axial direction with the plurality of openings in other layers in the transverse direction to form a tortuous flow path through the first end 902 of the assembly 900.

[0152] The guard 960 is generally fixed relative to the valve opening 906, but the configuration of fixing the guard 960 relative to the valve opening 906 is not particularly limited. In some embodiments, the guard 960 is fastened to the enclosure. In the current example, the guard 960 is fastened to the frame 910. The frame 910 and the guard 960 are fastened via the coupling feature 929. In the current example, the coupling feature 929 defines an interference fit. In the current example, the coupling feature 929 includes a plurality of coupling receiving portions 962 defined by the guard 960, each of which is configured to engage a corresponding coupling protrusion 928 of the frame 910 in a frictional manner to fasten the guard 960 to the frame 910. The coupling feature 929 can have any suitable number of coupling protrusions 928, each of which can have any suitable shape. Each coupling receiving portion forms a mating shape configured to engage with a corresponding structure defined by the guard 960. In some alternative embodiments, the frame 910 may define a coupling receiving portion and the guard may define a coupling protrusion. In various embodiments, the coupling receiving portion and the coupling protrusion may be welded, such as by heat welding, to further fix the guard 960 to the frame 910.

[0153] Other types of interference fits are also contemplated between the guard 960 and the frame 910. In some embodiments, the coupling feature 929 can form a snap-fit ​​connection between the guard 960 and the frame 910. As another example, the coupling feature 929 can include a threaded fastener, such as a screw, configured to engage with aligned fastener receivers 962 defined by the guard 960 and the frame 910. As another example, the coupling feature 929 can define a bayonet connection between the guard 960 and the frame 910. In some embodiments, the guard 960 can be coupled to the frame 910 by adhesive, welding, or other methods.

[0154] In some embodiments, one of the guard 960 and the enclosure 10 defines a coupling protrusion and the other of the guard and the enclosure 10 defines a coupling receiving portion configured to be coupled.

[0155] It should be noted that the protective device is not limited to the usual Figures 16 to 18 The protective device can be used with any of the pressure relief assemblies described herein.

[0156] Exemplary Aspects

[0157] Aspect 1. A pressure relief assembly, comprising:

[0158] a frame including a coupling structure, a valve mounting surface portion, a valve opening in the valve mounting surface portion, a discharge member mounting surface portion, and a discharge member opening in the discharge member mounting surface portion, wherein the discharge member opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening;

[0159] a valve body sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion over the valve opening;

[0160] a first stop that releasably secures the valve body to the frame, wherein the first stop is configured to release the valve body from the frame based on a minimum pressure differential across the valve opening; and

[0161] A drain is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion at the drain opening.

[0162] Aspect 2. A pressure relief assembly according to Aspect 1 and any one of Aspects 3 to 23, wherein the pressure relief assembly further comprises a discharge member cover extending laterally on the discharge member, wherein the discharge member is axially positioned between the frame and the discharge member cover.

[0163] Aspect 3. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 2 and aspects 4 to 23, wherein the vent cover and the valve body are a single integral component.

[0164] Aspect 4. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 3 and aspects 5 to 23, further defining an environmental opening perpendicular to the discharge cover.

[0165] Aspect 5. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 4 and aspects 6 to 23, wherein the environmental opening is positioned axially between the discharge member cover and the discharge member.

[0166] Aspect 6. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 5 and aspects 7 to 23, wherein the environmental opening is defined by the vent cover.

[0167] Aspect 7. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 6 and aspects 8 to 23, wherein the vent is a gas permeable membrane.

[0168] Aspect 8. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 7 and aspects 9 to 23, further comprising a second stopper that releasably secures the valve body to the frame.

[0169] Aspect 9. A pressure release assembly according to any one of Aspects 1 to 8 and Aspects 10 to 23, wherein the second stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve body, and the second stop is configured to release the valve body from the frame when the pressure difference across the valve opening is minimized.

[0170] Aspect 10. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 9 and aspects 11 to 23, wherein the second stopper is a spring-loaded stopper.

[0171] Aspect 11. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 10 and aspects 12 to 23, further comprising a hinge portion pivotably coupling the valve body to the frame.

[0172] Aspect 12. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 11 and aspects 13 to 23, wherein the hinge is positioned opposite to the first stopper in the lateral direction relative to the valve body.

[0173] Aspect 13. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 12 and aspects 14 to 23, wherein the first stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve body.

[0174] Aspect 14. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 1 to 13 and Aspects 15 to 23, further comprising a valve stem extending from the valve body in an axial direction, wherein the first stop member extends laterally from the frame to the valve stem.

[0175] Aspect 15. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 14 and aspects 16 to 23, wherein the first stopper is a spring-loaded stopper.

[0176] Aspect 16. A pressure release assembly according to any one of Aspects 1 to 15 and Aspects 17 to 23, wherein the first stop member includes: a stop member accommodating portion, the stop member accommodating portion having a first end and an open second end; a compressible elastic member, the compressible elastic member being arranged in the stop member accommodating portion, the compressible elastic member extending from the first end toward the open second end; and a stop member engaging surface portion, the stop member engaging surface portion being arranged in the stop member accommodating portion in a translatable manner, wherein the compressible elastic member is arranged in a compressible manner between the stop member engaging surface portion and the first end of the stop member accommodating portion.

[0177] Aspect 17. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 16 and aspects 18 to 23, wherein the first stopper is a magnetic member.

[0178] Aspect 18. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 17 and aspects 19 to 23, wherein the valve body has an annular profile in the transverse direction.

[0179] Aspect 19. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 18 and aspects 20 to 23, wherein the vent opening is geometrically parallel to the valve opening.

[0180] Aspect 20. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 19 and aspects 21 to 23, wherein the vent opening is not geometrically parallel to the valve opening.

[0181] Aspect 21. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 1 to 20 and Aspects 22 to 23, wherein the pressure relief assembly also includes a protective device connected to the frame, wherein the protective device defines a plurality of openings, and the plurality of openings are laterally spaced apart across the valve airflow path.

[0182] Aspect 22. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 1 to 21 and Aspect 23, wherein the pressure relief assembly also includes a protective device connected to the frame, wherein the protective device defines a plurality of openings, and the plurality of openings are laterally spaced across the valve airflow path and across the discharge member airflow path.

[0183] Aspect 23. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 22, wherein the guard is positioned toward the first end of the valve assembly.

[0184] Aspect 24. A pressure relief assembly, comprising:

[0185] a frame including a coupling structure, a valve mounting surface portion, and a valve opening located in the valve mounting surface portion, the pressure relief assembly having a first axial end, a second axial end, and a valve gas flow path extending from the first axial end through the valve opening and through the second axial end;

[0186] a valve body sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion over the valve opening, whereby the valve air flow path is blocked; and

[0187] an elastic member loaded first stopper, the elastic member loaded first stopper releasably fixing the valve body to the frame, wherein the elastic member loaded first stopper is configured to release the valve body from the frame according to a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening,

[0188] The valve body is configured to keep the valve air flow path unobstructed according to a minimum pressure difference on the valve opening.

[0189] Aspect 25. The pressure relief assembly according to aspect 24 and any one of aspects 26 to 44, wherein the first spring-loaded stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve body.

[0190] Aspect 26. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 24 to 25 and Aspects 27 to 44, wherein the pressure relief assembly also includes a valve stem, which extends axially from the valve body, wherein the first elastic member-loaded stop member extends laterally from the frame to the valve stem.

[0191] Aspect 27. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 24 to 26 and Aspects 28 to 44, wherein the pressure relief assembly further comprises a plurality of elastic-loaded stops, wherein the plurality of elastic-loaded stops comprises an elastic-loaded first stop, wherein each of the plurality of elastic-loaded stops fixes the valve body to the frame in a releasable manner, wherein each of the plurality of elastic-loaded stops extends laterally from the frame to the valve body, and each elastic-loaded stop is configured to release the valve body from the frame when the pressure difference across the valve opening is minimized.

[0192] Aspect 28. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 24 to 27 and Aspects 29 to 44, wherein the pressure relief assembly also includes a discharge member, wherein the frame also includes a discharge member mounting surface portion and a discharge member opening located within the discharge member mounting surface portion, wherein the discharge member opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening, and wherein the discharge member is connected to the discharge member mounting surface portion on the discharge member opening.

[0193] Aspect 29. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 24 to 28 and Aspects 30 to 44, wherein the pressure relief assembly also includes a discharge member, wherein the valve body includes a discharge member mounting surface portion and a discharge member opening located within the discharge member mounting surface portion, wherein the discharge member opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening, and wherein the discharge member is connected to the discharge member mounting surface portion on the discharge member opening.

[0194] Aspect 30. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 24 to 29 and Aspects 31 to 44, wherein the valve includes a valve side wall surrounding the discharge member opening, and the frame includes a frame side wall surrounding the valve opening, wherein the frame side wall is radially spaced outward relative to the valve side wall.

[0195] Aspect 31. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 24 to 30 and Aspects 32 to 44, wherein the pressure relief assembly further comprises a discharge member cover extending laterally on the discharge member, wherein the discharge member is axially positioned between the frame and the discharge member cover.

[0196] Aspect 32. The pressure relief assembly of any one of aspects 24 to 31 and aspects 33 to 44, wherein the vent cover and the valve body are a single integral component.

[0197] Aspect 33. The pressure relief assembly of any one of aspects 24 to 32 and aspects 33 to 44, further defining an environmental opening perpendicular to the discharge cover.

[0198] Aspect 34. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 24 to 33 and aspects 35 to 44, wherein the environmental opening is positioned axially between the discharge member cover and the discharge member.

[0199] Aspect 35. The pressure relief assembly of any one of aspects 24 to 34 and aspects 36 to 44, wherein the ambient opening is defined by the vent cover.

[0200] Aspect 36. The pressure relief assembly of any one of aspects 24 to 35 and aspects 37 to 44, wherein the vent opening is geometrically parallel to the valve opening.

[0201] Aspect 37. The pressure relief assembly of any one of Aspects 24 to 36 and Aspects 38 to 44, wherein the vent opening is not geometrically parallel to the valve opening.

[0202] Aspect 38. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 24 to 37 and aspects 39 to 44, wherein the vent is a gas permeable membrane.

[0203] Aspect 39. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 24 to 38 and aspects 40 to 44, further comprising a hinge portion pivotably coupling the valve body to the frame.

[0204] Aspect 40. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 24 to 39 and aspects 41 to 44, wherein the hinge is positioned opposite to the first stopper in the lateral direction relative to the valve body.

[0205] Aspect 41. A pressure release assembly according to any one of Aspects 24 to 40 and Aspects 42 to 44, wherein the elastic member-loaded first stop member includes: a stop member accommodating portion, the stop member accommodating portion having a first end and a second end; a compression elastic member, the compression elastic member being arranged in the stop member accommodating portion, the compression elastic member extending from the first end toward the second end; and a stop member engaging surface portion, the stop member engaging surface portion being arranged in the stop member accommodating portion in a translatable manner, wherein the compression elastic member is arranged in a compressible manner between the stop member engaging surface portion and the first end of the stop member accommodating portion.

[0206] Aspect 42. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 24 to 41 and Aspects 43 to 44, wherein the valve body has an annular profile in the transverse direction.

[0207] Aspect 43. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 24 to 42 and Aspect 44, wherein the pressure relief assembly further comprises a protective device connected to the frame, wherein the protective device defines a plurality of openings that are laterally spaced apart across the valve airflow path.

[0208] Aspect 44. The pressure relief assembly of any one of Aspects 24 to 43, wherein the guard is positioned toward the first end of the valve assembly.

[0209] Aspect 45. A pressure relief assembly, comprising:

[0210] a frame including a coupling structure, a valve mounting surface portion, and a valve opening located in the valve mounting surface portion;

[0211] a valve body sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion over the valve opening; and

[0212] an elastic member loaded first stopper, the elastic member loaded first stopper releasably fixing the valve body to the frame, wherein the elastic member loaded first stopper is configured to release the valve body from the frame according to a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening,

[0213] Wherein, the elastic member-loaded first stop member includes: a stop member accommodating portion, the stop member accommodating portion having a first end and a second end; a compression type elastic member, the compression type elastic member is arranged in the stop member accommodating portion, the compression type elastic member extends from the first end toward the second end; and a stop member engaging surface portion, the stop member engaging surface portion is arranged in the stop member accommodating portion in a translatable manner, wherein the compression type elastic member is arranged in a compressible manner between the stop member engaging surface portion and the first end of the stop member accommodating portion.

[0214] Aspect 46. A pressure relief assembly according to Aspect 45 and any one of Aspects 47 to 65, wherein the frame includes a discharge member mounting surface portion and a discharge member opening located within the discharge member mounting surface portion, wherein the discharge member opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening, and the pressure relief assembly also includes a discharge member, which is connected to the discharge member mounting surface portion on the discharge member opening.

[0215] Aspect 47. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 45 to 46 and Aspects 48 to 65, wherein the pressure relief assembly also includes a discharge member, wherein the valve body includes a discharge member mounting surface portion and a discharge member opening located within the discharge member mounting surface portion, wherein the discharge member opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening, and wherein the discharge member is connected to the discharge member mounting surface portion on the discharge member opening.

[0216] Aspect 48. The pressure relief assembly of any one of Aspects 45 to 47 and Aspects 49 to 65, wherein the vent opening is geometrically parallel to the valve opening.

[0217] Aspect 49. The pressure relief assembly of any one of Aspects 45 to 48 and Aspects 50 to 65, wherein the vent opening is not geometrically parallel to the valve opening.

[0218] Aspect 50. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 45 to 49 and Aspects 51 to 65, wherein the pressure relief assembly further comprises a discharge member cover extending laterally on the discharge member, wherein the discharge member is axially positioned between the frame and the discharge member cover.

[0219] Aspect 51. The pressure relief assembly of any one of aspects 45 to 50 and aspects 52 to 65, wherein the vent cover and the valve body are a single, unitary component.

[0220] Aspect 52. The pressure relief assembly of any one of aspects 45 to 51 and aspects 53 to 65, further defining an environmental opening perpendicular to the discharge cover.

[0221] Aspect 53. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 45 to 52 and aspects 54 to 65, wherein the environmental opening is positioned axially between the discharge member cover and the discharge member.

[0222] Aspect 54. The pressure relief assembly of any one of Aspects 45 to 53 and Aspects 55 to 65, wherein the ambient opening is defined by the vent cover.

[0223] Aspect 55. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 45 to 54 and aspects 56 to 65, wherein the vent is a gas permeable membrane.

[0224] Aspect 56. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 45 to 55 and Aspects 57 to 65, wherein the valve body has an annular profile in the transverse direction.

[0225] Aspect 57. The pressure relief assembly of any one of Aspects 45 to 56 and Aspects 58 to 65, wherein the spring-loaded first stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve body.

[0226] Aspect 58. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 45 to 57 and Aspects 59 to 65, wherein the pressure relief assembly also includes a valve stem, which extends axially from the valve body, wherein the first stop member loaded by the elastic member extends laterally from the frame to the valve stem.

[0227] Aspect 59. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 45 to 58 and Aspects 60 to 65, wherein the pressure relief assembly further comprises an elastically loaded second stopper, wherein the elastically loaded second stopper fixes the valve body to the frame in a releasable manner.

[0228] Aspect 60. A pressure release assembly according to any one of Aspects 45 to 59 and Aspects 61 to 65, wherein the elastically loaded second stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve body, and the elastically loaded second stop is configured to release the valve body from the frame when the pressure difference across the valve opening is minimized.

[0229] Aspect 61. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of aspects 45 to 60 and aspects 62 to 65, further comprising a hinge portion pivotably connecting the valve body to the frame.

[0230] Aspect 62. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 45 to 61 and Aspects 63 to 65, wherein the hinge is positioned relative to the valve body in the lateral direction opposite to the first elastic member loaded stop.

[0231] Aspect 63. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 45 to 62 and Aspects 64 to 65, wherein the valve includes a valve side wall surrounding the discharge member opening, and the frame includes a frame side wall surrounding the valve opening, wherein the frame side wall is spaced radially outward relative to the valve side wall.

[0232] Aspect 64. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of Aspects 45 to 63 and Aspect 65, wherein the pressure relief assembly further comprises a protective device connected to the frame, wherein the protective device defines a plurality of openings that are laterally spaced apart across the valve airflow path.

[0233] Aspect 65. The pressure relief assembly of any one of Aspects 45 to 64, wherein the guard is positioned toward the first end of the valve assembly.

[0234] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase "configured" describes that a system, device, or other structure is constructed to perform a specific task or adopt a specific configuration. The term "configured" can be used in an interchangeable manner with similar terms, such as "arranged", "built", "manufactured", etc.

[0235] All publications and patent applications in this application document represent the level of ordinary technicians in the field of this technology. All publications and patent applications are incorporated herein by reference, and their citation degree is equivalent to each individual publication or patent application and is specifically and individually described by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the disclosure of this application and one or more disclosures in any file incorporated herein by reference, the disclosure of this application shall prevail.

[0236] This application is intended to cover adaptations or variations of the subject matter.It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive, and that the claims are not limited to the illustrative embodiments set forth herein.

Claims

1. A pressure relief assembly, comprising: a frame including a coupling structure, a valve mounting surface portion, a valve opening in the valve mounting surface portion, a discharge member mounting surface portion, and a discharge member opening in the discharge member mounting surface portion, wherein the discharge member opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening; a valve body sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion over the valve opening; a first stop that releasably secures the valve body to the frame, wherein the first stop is configured to release the valve body from the frame based on a minimum pressure differential across the valve opening; and A drain is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion at the drain opening.

2. The pressure relief assembly of claim 1 and any one of claims 3 to 8, further comprising a hinge that pivotably couples the valve body to the frame.

3. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and claims 4 to 8, wherein: The first stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve body.

4. The pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and claims 5 to 8, further comprising a valve stem extending from the valve body in an axial direction, wherein: The first stop extends laterally from the frame to the valve stem.

5. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and claims 6 to 8, wherein: The first stop member includes: a stop member accommodating portion, the stop member accommodating portion having a first end and an open second end; a compressible elastic member, the compressible elastic member is arranged in the stop member accommodating portion, the compressible elastic member extends from the first end toward the open second end; and a stop member engaging surface portion, the stop member engaging surface portion is arranged in the stop member accommodating portion in a translatable manner, wherein the compressible elastic member is arranged in a compressible manner between the stop member engaging surface portion and the first end of the stop member accommodating portion.

6. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and claims 7 to 8, wherein: The first stopper is a magnetic member.

7. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and claim 8, wherein: The discharge opening is not geometrically parallel to the valve opening.

8. The pressure relief assembly of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a guard coupled to the frame, wherein: The guard defines a plurality of openings spaced laterally across the valve airflow path and the drain opening.

9. A pressure relief assembly, comprising: a frame including a coupling structure, a valve mounting surface portion, and a valve opening located in the valve mounting surface portion, the pressure relief assembly having a first axial end, a second axial end, and a valve gas flow path extending from the first axial end through the valve opening and through the second axial end; a valve body sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion over the valve opening, whereby the valve air flow path is blocked; and an elastic member loaded first stopper, the elastic member loaded first stopper releasably fixing the valve body to the frame, wherein the elastic member loaded first stopper is configured to release the valve body from the frame according to a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening, The valve body is configured to keep the valve air flow path unobstructed according to a minimum pressure difference on the valve opening.

10. The pressure relief assembly of claim 9 and any one of claims 11 to 15, further comprising a vent, wherein: The frame further includes a drain mounting surface portion and a drain opening within the drain mounting surface portion, wherein the drain opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening, and wherein the drain is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion over the drain opening.

11. The pressure relief assembly of any one of claims 9 to 10 and claims 12 to 15, further comprising a vent, wherein: The valve body includes a drain mounting surface portion and a drain opening located in the drain mounting surface portion, wherein the drain opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening, and wherein the drain is coupled to the drain mounting surface portion on the drain opening.

12. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 11 and claims 13 to 15, wherein: The valve includes a valve sidewall surrounding the discharge opening, and the frame includes a frame sidewall surrounding the valve opening, wherein the frame sidewall is spaced radially outwardly relative to the valve sidewall.

13. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 12 and claims 14 to 15, wherein: The discharge opening is geometrically parallel to the valve opening.

14. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 13 and claim 15, wherein: The discharge opening is not geometrically parallel to the valve opening.

15. The pressure relief assembly of any one of claims 9 to 14, further comprising a hinge pivotably coupling the valve body to the frame.

16. A pressure relief assembly, comprising: a frame including a coupling structure, a valve mounting surface portion, and a valve opening located in the valve mounting surface portion; a valve body sealably arranged on the valve mounting surface portion over the valve opening; and an elastic member loaded first stopper, the elastic member loaded first stopper releasably fixing the valve body to the frame, wherein the elastic member loaded first stopper is configured to release the valve body from the frame according to a minimum pressure difference across the valve opening, Wherein, the elastic member-loaded first stop member includes: a stop member accommodating portion, the stop member accommodating portion having a first end and a second end; a compression type elastic member, the compression type elastic member is arranged in the stop member accommodating portion, the compression type elastic member extends from the first end toward the second end; and a stop member engaging surface portion, the stop member engaging surface portion is arranged in the stop member accommodating portion in a translatable manner, wherein the compression type elastic member is arranged in a compressible manner between the stop member engaging surface portion and the first end of the stop member accommodating portion.

17. A pressure relief assembly according to claim 16 and any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein: The frame includes a drain mounting surface portion and a drain opening within the drain mounting surface portion, wherein the drain opening is functionally parallel to the valve opening, and the pressure relief assembly further includes a drain coupled to the drain mounting surface portion on the drain opening.

18. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 17 and claims 19 to 20, wherein: The valve includes a valve sidewall surrounding the discharge opening, and the frame includes a frame sidewall surrounding the valve opening, wherein the frame sidewall is spaced radially outwardly relative to the valve sidewall.

19. The pressure relief assembly of any one of claims 16 to 18 and claim 20, further comprising a guard coupled to the frame, wherein: The guard defines a plurality of openings that are laterally spaced across the valve airflow path.

20. A pressure relief assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein: The guard is positioned toward the first end of the valve assembly.

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