Battery packs and vehicles

Abstract

This invention discloses a battery pack and a vehicle, relating to the field of batteries. The battery pack includes: a top cover, a detection component, and a heating component. The top cover is a conductor; the detection component is used to detect a water layer on the top cover, and includes: a conductive element disposed on the top cover, and an insulating layer between the conductive element and the top cover; the insulating layer has a water-holding gap, which is disposed through the thickness direction of the insulating layer, and conducts electricity between the top cover and the conductive element when the water layer is contained in the water-holding gap; the detection component is connected to the top cover and the conductive element respectively to detect the circuit operating parameters between the top cover and the conductive element; the heating component is electrically connected to the detection component, and is used to heat the top cover according to the detection result of the detection component to dry the water layer. The battery pack of this invention can achieve intelligent detection and efficient handling of water accumulation, thereby improving the reliability of the battery pack.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of batteries, and more particularly to a battery pack and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, some new energy vehicle battery packs are designed with a buffer plate on the top cover to mitigate external impacts. However, due to the irregular surface structure of the top cover, the buffer plate cannot fit completely against the top cover, creating gaps. In rainy weather, when the vehicle is driving through water, or when condensation occurs due to low temperatures, water can easily accumulate in these gaps, potentially adversely affecting the safety and performance of the battery pack.

[0003] Therefore, there is room for improvement in battery pack design. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, the first aspect of the present invention aims to provide a battery pack capable of intelligent detection and efficient handling of water accumulation, thereby improving the reliability of the battery pack.

[0005] The second aspect of the present invention is to provide a vehicle.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a battery pack includes a top cover, a detection component, and a heating component. The top cover is a conductor; the detection component is used to detect a water accumulation layer on the top cover, and the detection component includes: a conductive element disposed on the top cover, and an insulating layer spaced between the conductive element and the top cover; the insulating layer has a water-holding gap, which is disposed through the insulating layer in the thickness direction, and conducts electricity between the top cover and the conductive element when the water accumulation layer is contained in the water-holding gap; the detection component is connected to the top cover and the conductive element respectively to detect circuit operating parameters between the top cover and the conductive element; the heating component is electrically connected to the detection component, and the heating component is used to heat the top cover according to the detection result of the detection component to dry the water accumulation layer.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack utilizes a detection component and the electrical connection between a conductive element and a top cover, along with an insulating layer between them, to detect water accumulation. A water-holding gap is provided in the insulating layer, allowing the top cover and conductive element to conduct electricity when the water layer is contained within the gap, thus enabling the detection component to perform its detection function. A heating component is provided and electrically connected to the detection component, allowing the heating component to heat the battery pack promptly when water accumulation is detected, effectively evaporating the water and improving the battery pack's reliability.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the battery pack of the present invention, the top cover is a conductor, and the detection component includes: a conductive element disposed on the top cover; an insulating layer spaced between the conductive element and the top cover, the insulating layer having a water-holding gap that extends through the insulating layer in the thickness direction, so that the top cover and the conductive element are connected when the accumulated water layer is contained in the water-holding gap; the detection component is connected to the top cover and the conductive element respectively to detect the circuit operating parameters between the top cover and the conductive element.

[0009] In some embodiments, the conductive element is a conductive layer that covers the insulating layer.

[0010] In some alternative embodiments, the conductive layer is aluminum foil or graphite paper.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the insulating layer is a double-sided adhesive layer, and the conductive element is adhered to the top cover through the insulating layer.

[0012] In some alternative embodiments, the upper surface of the cover is provided with a protrusion, and at least a portion of the water-retaining gap is provided along the edge of the protrusion.

[0013] In some alternative embodiments, the upper surface of the cover is provided with a groove, and at least a portion of the water-retaining gap is positioned opposite the groove.

[0014] In some alternative embodiments, the width of the water-retaining gap is 1–20 mm.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the battery pack further includes: a buffer plate disposed on the upper cover, wherein the detection component is located between the buffer plate and the upper cover.

[0016] In some alternative embodiments, the detection component is adhered to the buffer plate and the top cover.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the battery pack of the present invention, the heating component includes a heating film.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the battery pack further includes: a temperature detection element for detecting the temperature of the battery pack, and the heating component is electrically connected to the temperature detection element to control operation based on the detection results of the detection component and the temperature detection element.

[0019] A vehicle according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a battery pack according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0020] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of the battery pack in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the insulating layer structure in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the top cover in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a circuit diagram of the detection loop in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 5 The working principle of the detection component in some embodiments of the present invention is as follows.

[0027] Figure label:

[0028] Battery pack 100, top cover 10, protrusion 11, groove 12, detection component 20, conductive part 22, lead end 221, wire 222, connector 223, insulating layer 24, water-holding gap 241, buffer plate 40, tray 50, external plug interface 51. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0030] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "thickness," "upper," "lower," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0031] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0032] It is worth noting that, in combination Figure 1 In the construction of the battery pack 100, the top cover 10 serves as a top cover, which provides necessary physical protection for the battery pack 100, ensuring that external objects do not directly touch or damage the internal structure of the battery.

[0033] The upper surface of the cover 10 of the battery pack 100 has an irregular structure, resulting in gaps. In rainy weather, wading, or condensation conditions, water can easily accumulate in these gaps, potentially causing adverse effects on the battery pack 100.

[0034] To improve the above problems, please refer to the following: Figure 1 - Figure 4 A battery pack 100 according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention is described.

[0035] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the battery pack 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a top cover 10, a detection component 20, and a heating component.

[0036] The detection component 20 is used to detect the water layer on the top cover 10. The heating component is electrically connected to the detection component 20 and is used to heat the top cover 10 according to the detection result of the detection component 20 to dry the water layer.

[0037] The top cover 10 serves as the top protective layer of the battery pack 100, preventing external objects from directly damaging the internal structure of the battery.

[0038] The detection component 20 is responsible for detecting whether a water layer has formed on the top cover 10.

[0039] In some embodiments, the operating mode of the detection component 20 may include detection being initiated manually by the user and / or detection being initiated automatically according to a predetermined cycle.

[0040] In some cases, the detection component 20 is manually activated by the user. This means that when operators suspect or are certain that there may be water accumulation on the top cover 10 of the battery pack 100, they can activate the detection component 20 manually (such as pressing a button, switching on a toggle switch, or triggering it through the software interface) to perform an immediate water accumulation detection on the top cover 10. This approach gives operators the power of direct intervention and control, enabling them to respond quickly according to the actual situation and ensure the safe operation of the battery pack 100.

[0041] In other cases, the detection component 20 automatically starts detection according to a predetermined cycle. Thus, the detection component 20 will automatically activate at preset time intervals to periodically detect water accumulation on the top cover 10. This automated detection mechanism helps to promptly identify and address potential water accumulation problems, reducing safety hazards caused by human negligence. It also reduces the burden on operators and improves the intelligence level of battery pack 100 management.

[0042] In other cases, the detection component 20 can be manually triggered by the operator as needed, or it can automatically perform detection tasks at set time intervals. This dual-mode setting meets both the need for immediate detection and ensures periodic automatic monitoring, thereby enhancing the reliability and usability of the battery pack 100.

[0043] In some embodiments, once the detection component 20 detects the presence of water, it triggers an electrical signal.

[0044] Specifically, when water accumulation is detected, the detection component 20 generates an electrical signal and transmits it to the battery management system (BMS) or other components. This electrical signal can be used to trigger subsequent actions, such as activating the heating device to evaporate the water, or issuing a warning message to the driver to alert them to the status of the battery pack 100.

[0045] In some embodiments, the heating component is electrically connected to the detection component 20. When the detection component 20 sends or interrupts an electrical signal, the heating component responds and starts the heating function.

[0046] This detection and heating process ensures that the water layer is effectively dried in a short time. This design prevents potential performance degradation or safety hazards to the battery pack 100 caused by water accumulation.

[0047] In some embodiments, the top cover 10 is a conductor, and the detection component 20 includes a conductive element 22 and an insulating layer 24. The conductive element 22 is disposed on the top cover 10, and the insulating layer 24 is spaced between the conductive element 22 and the top cover 10. A water-retaining gap 241 is provided on the insulating layer 24, which is disposed through the thickness direction of the insulating layer 24. When a water layer is contained in the water-retaining gap 241, the top cover 10 and the conductive element 22 are connected. The detection component 20 is connected to the top cover 10 and the conductive element 22 respectively to detect the circuit operating parameters between the top cover 10 and the conductive element 22. Here, the detection component 20 connects the top cover 10 and the conductive element 22 in a detection circuit. By detecting the change of a certain operating parameter in the detection circuit, it is determined whether there is a connection between the conductive element 22 and the top cover 10. The setting of the detection circuit and the determination of whether there is a connection between the two electrical components by the change of the circuit's operating parameters can adopt known solutions in the prior art. Here, there are no specific limitations on the detection circuit or the selection of operating parameters. The operating parameters can be voltage, resistance, current, etc. The detection circuit itself is not the core solution of this application, as it is existing technology. The core technology of this application is to use the detection circuit to detect whether there is water accumulation on the top cover 10 of the battery pack 100.

[0048] In the above technical solution, the top cover 10 acts as a conductor, possessing excellent electrical conductivity. This means that when water or other conductive media come into contact with the top cover 10, it can conduct current.

[0049] The conductive element 22 is disposed on the upper cover 10, but does not directly contact the upper cover 10. The conductive element 22 is also made of conductive material to ensure that it can form a conductive path with the upper cover 10 under certain conditions (such as when water is present).

[0050] An insulating layer 24 is located between the conductive element 22 and the top cover 10. The main function of this insulating layer 24 is to prevent accidental current conduction between the conductive element 22 and the top cover 10 in the absence of water accumulation. The insulating layer 24 needs to have good insulation properties and a certain mechanical strength to ensure that its performance remains stable during long-term use.

[0051] Water-retaining gaps 241 are provided on the insulating layer 24. These water-retaining gaps 241 are provided through the thickness direction of the insulating layer 24, which means that they can hold a certain amount of water.

[0052] On the one hand, the water-holding gap 241 can collect and temporarily store water that may seep into the battery pack 100, which helps to prevent water from directly contacting the internal electronic components, thereby extending the service life and safety of the battery pack 100.

[0053] On the other hand, when the water layer is contained in these water-containing gaps 241, the water acts as a bridge, connecting the conductive element 22 and the top cover 10, thereby forming a temporary conductive path.

[0054] Optionally, the water-retaining gap 241 can be one or more.

[0055] When the water-holding gap 241 is a single gap, it can be located at the center of the insulating layer 24 or positioned according to the expected water accumulation area. This configuration simplifies the structure, reduces manufacturing costs, and effectively addresses water accumulation detection in specific areas. A single water-holding gap 241 ensures that a conductive path can be rapidly formed when water accumulation reaches a certain level, thereby triggering the response mechanism of the detection component 20.

[0056] When a wider water accumulation detection range is required, multiple water-holding gaps 241 can be used. These water-holding gaps 241 can be evenly distributed on the insulation layer 24, forming a grid, strip, or other shape to cover a larger area or a specific water accumulation path. The construction of multiple water-holding gaps 241 provides greater redundancy and reliability. Even if one or more water-holding gaps 241 are blocked or fail to detect water accumulation, the other water-holding gaps 241 can still function normally, ensuring the effectiveness of the detection component 20.

[0057] Whether there is one or multiple water-holding gaps 241, their size and shape can be adjusted according to the actual application scenario. For example, the water-holding gap 241 can be designed as a strip, or as a ring, or as a polygon or other irregular shape.

[0058] The conductive element 22 in the detection assembly 20 is connected to the upper cover 10, together forming a detection circuit for detecting water accumulation. Under normal water-free conditions, the insulating layer 24 effectively isolates the direct electrical contact between the upper cover 10 and the conductive element 22, making the detection circuit open, and the detection assembly 20 determines that there is no water accumulation in the current environment.

[0059] However, once water seeps into the water-retaining gaps 241 on the insulating layer 24, this water acts as a bridge, temporarily connecting the conductive element 22 and the top cover 10, thus closing the previously disconnected detection circuit. At this point, the detection component 20 can detect this change and immediately determine that water has been present.

[0060] Once the detection component 20 confirms the presence of water, it quickly triggers the electrically connected heating component. The heating component then activates its heating function to effectively evaporate the water, thereby eliminating potential safety hazards.

[0061] As the accumulated water gradually evaporates, the water layer between the conductive component 22 and the top cover 10 eventually disappears, and the detection circuit returns to its initial disconnected state. This change is accurately captured by the detection component 20 again, indicating that the water accumulation problem has been resolved and the battery pack 100 has returned to its normal safe state.

[0062] In summary, the battery pack 100 of this embodiment of the invention achieves intelligent monitoring and efficient handling of water accumulation through the coordinated operation of the detection component 20 and the heating component, providing a strong guarantee for the safe operation of the battery pack 100.

[0063] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the conductive element 22 is a conductive layer that covers the insulating layer 24.

[0064] Specifically, when the conductive layer covers the insulating layer 24, when water comes into contact with the conductive layer, the water forms an electrical contact with the conductive layer, thereby generating an electrical effect, enabling the detection component 20 to accurately detect the presence of water.

[0065] Furthermore, since the conductive layer covers the insulating layer 24, it forms a continuous, large-area detection region. This means that even if water only covers a portion of the conductive layer, the detection mechanism can still be triggered. Therefore, covering the insulating layer 24 with a conductive layer improves the detection sensitivity of water accumulation and expands the detection range.

[0066] In some alternative embodiments, the conductive layer is aluminum foil or graphite paper.

[0067] This is because aluminum foil has good flexibility and plasticity, which can be easily bent and adhered to surfaces of various shapes, and the production cost of aluminum foil is low, which helps to reduce manufacturing costs.

[0068] Graphite paper is a thin film material with graphite as its main component. Its conductivity is comparable to that of some metals, and its conductivity is stable, maintaining good current transmission capability under various environments.

[0069] In summary, the selection of the conductive layer may need to be adjusted based on specific requirements, cost budget, and other factors.

[0070] According to some embodiments of the present invention, in the battery pack 100, the insulating layer 24 is a double-sided adhesive layer, and the conductive element 22 is attached to the top cover 10 through the insulating layer 24.

[0071] The double-sided adhesive layer has a certain degree of adhesion, which ensures a firm bond between the conductive component 22 and the top cover 10. This tight bond helps prevent the conductive component 22 from loosening or falling off due to vibration or impact during the use of the battery pack 100, thereby improving the stability of the detection function of the battery pack 100.

[0072] By using double-sided adhesive as the insulating layer 24, the complex processes of traditional fastener fixing or welding can be eliminated, thereby simplifying the assembly process of the battery pack 100, improving production efficiency, and the application of double-sided adhesive is relatively simple, requiring no special tools or equipment, further reducing production costs.

[0073] In addition, the double-sided adhesive layer has good insulation properties. In daily use, the double-sided adhesive layer can effectively isolate the electrical connection between the conductive component 22 and the top cover 10, so that the conductive component 22 and the top cover 10 remain insulated, thus avoiding improving the detection accuracy of the detection component 20.

[0074] In some alternative embodiments, the double-sided adhesive layer may be an adhesive layer on a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) substrate or an adhesive layer on a PP (polypropylene) substrate.

[0075] When the double-sided adhesive layer is made of PET substrate, PET provides stable support, making the double-sided adhesive layer less prone to deformation or failure during prolonged use. Furthermore, PET substrate double-sided adhesive layers typically have good adhesion and peel strength, ensuring that the conductive component 22 and the top cover 10 adhere tightly under different temperature and humidity conditions, preventing them from easily detaching. This ensures the accurate positioning of the water-holding gap 241 and improves the detection accuracy of the detection component 20.

[0076] When the double-sided adhesive layer is a PP substrate, PP provides good flexibility and processing performance, which can adapt to the complex shape and dynamic stress between the top cover 10 and the conductive element 22, thereby ensuring a reliable connection between the conductive element 22 and the top cover 10.

[0077] In some alternative embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the upper surface of the cover 10 is provided with a protrusion 11, and at least a portion of the water-holding gap 241 is provided along the edge of the protrusion 11.

[0078] The protrusion 11 on the top cover 10 allows the water-holding gap 241 to be positioned along the edge of the protrusion 11. Therefore, the protrusion 11 provides a clear and defined boundary for the water-holding gap 241, which ensures that the position of the water-holding gap 241 on the top cover 10 is precisely defined and controlled. As a result, the battery pack 100 can more accurately detect the presence of water accumulation, thereby improving the detection accuracy and reliability of the battery pack 100 in detecting water accumulation.

[0079] In some alternative embodiments, combined with Figure 3 The upper surface of the cover 10 is provided with a groove 12, and at least a portion of the water-holding gap 241 is positioned opposite the groove 12.

[0080] The water-retaining gap 241 is used to collect and temporarily store moisture that may seep into the battery pack 100. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the water-retaining gap 241 is configured to align precisely with the groove 12 of the top cover 10. This means that when there are water droplets or accumulated water on the upper surface of the top cover 10, this moisture can more easily flow into the groove 12 through the water-retaining gap 241. This arrangement allows the physical structure to guide the accumulated water toward the water-retaining gap 241, rather than allowing it to freely diffuse across the entire surface of the top cover 10.

[0081] When water enters the water-holding gap 241 and eventually contacts the groove 12 of the upper cover 10, the upper cover 10 and the conductive element 22 can form a temporary current path, which causes the detection component 20 to send a signal and start the heating component to begin heating. As the temperature rises, the water begins to evaporate and gradually turns into water vapor, thereby effectively reducing the potential threat of water accumulation to the battery pack 100.

[0082] In some optional embodiments, the width of the water-receiving gap 241 is 1-20 mm. Specifically, the width of the water-receiving gap 241 is set to d, such as... Figures 2-3 As shown, d can be 1mm, 5mm, 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, etc. Here, the width d of the water-holding gap 241 is controlled within the range of 1-20mm. On the one hand, this ensures that the water-holding gap 241 has a certain capacity to accommodate and buffer accidentally infiltrated water, thereby preventing water from directly impacting or penetrating the sensitive components of the battery pack 100, thus improving the waterproof performance and operational safety of the battery pack 100. On the other hand, by limiting the width of the water-holding gap 241 to no more than 20mm, excessive diffusion of water within the gap can be effectively avoided. If the gap is too wide, water may only adhere to the bottom of the water-holding gap 241 due to insufficient restraint, making it difficult to contact the top cover 10. Limiting the width of the water-holding gap 241 to no more than 20mm helps control and predict the contact between water and the conductive component 22. Within an appropriate width range, water can more easily contact the conductive component 22 through the water-holding gap 241, thereby activating the heating assembly.

[0083] According to some of the inventions, Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the battery pack 100 further includes a buffer plate 40 disposed on the upper cover 10, and the detection component 20 is located between the buffer plate 40 and the upper cover 10.

[0084] In this technical solution, the layout of the detection component 20 not only reduces the distance between the detection component 20 and the water-holding gap 241, thereby improving the detection efficiency and accuracy of the detection component 20 in detecting water accumulation; at the same time, the buffer plate 40 also plays a certain protective role, which can effectively reduce and buffer the impact of external forces on the battery pack 100, thereby enhancing the durability and reliability of the battery pack 100.

[0085] In some alternative embodiments, the detection component 20 is adhered to the buffer plate 40 and the top cover 10.

[0086] First, the adhesive connection method is faster than the traditional mechanical fixing method. It eliminates the need for cumbersome alignment and tightening steps; the detection component 20 can be installed simply by applying an appropriate amount of adhesive or glue layer. This saves installation time and reduces errors caused by improper installation.

[0087] Secondly, the adhesive method reduces the complexity of the installation process. Furthermore, the adhesive method eliminates the need for additional fasteners and fixtures, thus simplifying the installation process.

[0088] Finally, the adhesive method also facilitates subsequent maintenance and replacement of the detection component 20. When the detection component 20 malfunctions or needs upgrading, it can be easily removed from the buffer plate 40 and the top cover 10 simply by using appropriate tools or solvents to remove the adhesive. Then, the new detection component 20 can be adhered to the designated position following the same steps. This maintenance method is not only simple and quick, but also does not cause any damage to other parts of the battery pack 100.

[0089] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the battery pack 100 includes a heating component comprising a heating film.

[0090] First, the heating film reduces the space occupied by the upper cover 10. The heating film is relatively thin and can be directly applied to the preset position without additional installation space, thus making more efficient use of the vehicle's interior space. This improves the battery pack 100's ability to control water accumulation without increasing the volume occupied by the battery pack 100.

[0091] Secondly, the heating film also has fast heating efficiency and response speed. It can respond quickly to commands, start up quickly and reach the predetermined heating temperature, thereby effectively evaporating accumulated water and improving the reliability of the battery pack 100.

[0092] In some alternative embodiments, the heating film is attached to the lower surface of the top cover 10, or the battery pack 100 includes a liquid cooling plate, and the heating film is attached to the liquid cooling plate.

[0093] When the heating film is attached to the lower surface of the upper cover 10, the upper cover 10 can be heated directly, which will cause the water in the water-holding gap 241 to drain out as soon as possible.

[0094] When the heating film is attached to the liquid cooling plate, the heating can raise the temperature of the liquid cooling plate after the heating is started, thereby evaporating the accumulated water.

[0095] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the battery pack 100 further includes: a temperature detection element, which is used to detect the temperature of the battery pack 100, and a heating component electrically connected to the temperature detection element to control operation based on the detection results of the detection component 20 and the temperature detection element.

[0096] In the above technical solution, the temperature detection device is used to detect the real-time temperature of the battery pack 100. The heating component and the temperature detection device are electrically connected through a circuit to form an intelligent system.

[0097] For example, when the detection component 20 detects a water-filled environment, if the temperature detection component detects that the ambient temperature is below a preset safety threshold, it is determined that the conditions are suitable for using the heating component. Therefore, the heating component is activated and begins to operate to raise the ambient temperature, promoting rapid evaporation of the water. This process helps keep the battery pack 100 dry and prevents problems such as short circuits and corrosion caused by moisture.

[0098] Alternatively, if the temperature sensor determines that the ambient temperature exceeds a preset high-temperature threshold when the detection component 20 detects water accumulation, the heating component will not be activated to prevent it from further raising the ambient temperature. In this case, the detection component 20 can alert the operator via the battery management system to safely handle the water accumulation problem.

[0099] In some optional embodiments, the detection component 20 is connected to the conductive element 22 and the upper cover 10 via two leads 221, respectively. Specifically, the conductive element 22 is provided with one lead 221, and the upper cover 10 is provided with another lead 221. The core module of the detection circuit is located inside the battery pack 100 and can be connected to the core module via the two leads 221.

[0100] Optionally, the lead-out terminal 221 on the conductive element 22 includes a wire 222 and a connector 223. The lead-out terminal 221 on the top cover 10 may include a wire 222 and a connector 223, or it may only include the connector 223. This facilitates plug-in connection.

[0101] Alternatively, the battery pack 100 includes a tray 50, and a top cover 10 is disposed on the tray 50. The tray 50 is provided with an external interface 51 for the battery pack 100, and the lead-out end 221 on the conductive element 22 can extend into the battery pack 100 through the external interface 51 to connect with the core module of the detection circuit.

[0102] According to some embodiments of the battery pack 100 of the present invention, the detection circuit involved in the detection component 20 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 4 :

[0103] 1. Initial state: Connect the Ro port to conductive component 22, and ground the tray 50.

[0104] In a dry environment, an open circuit is formed between the Ro port and ground. The voltage at Ri is obtained by the reference voltage Vref provided by the chip, the voltage drop of diode D1, and then the voltage division by resistor R2.

[0105] 2. When there is water in the environment, the water will seep in and cause the impedance between the Ro port and ground to decrease.

[0106] This change will affect the voltage divider network composed of R1 and R2, thus causing a change in the voltage at Ri.

[0107] 3. If the voltage change at Ri exceeds the preset threshold, it indicates that the humidity has reached a level that requires intervention.

[0108] At this point, the battery management system will send a signal to activate the heating element to remove moisture.

[0109] As the heating process continues, the moisture is gradually evaporated, the impedance between the Ro port and ground is restored, and the voltage value at Ri returns to its normal level.

[0110] 4. Return to normal:

[0111] When the voltage at point Ri returns to the set threshold range, it indicates that the humidity has dropped to a safe level.

[0112] At this point, the battery management system will stop the heating process.

[0113] A vehicle according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a battery pack 100 according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0114] It is worth noting that the vehicle can be a new energy vehicle, which can be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, or a range-extended electric vehicle, etc. The vehicle is equipped with a battery pack 100, which can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle. The battery pack 100 can be used to power the vehicle; for example, the battery pack 100 can serve as the vehicle's operating power source. In some embodiments of this application, the battery pack 100 can not only serve as the vehicle's operating power source but also as the vehicle's drive power source, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle.

[0115] By incorporating a battery pack 100 capable of intelligently detecting and efficiently handling water accumulation on the top cover 10, the safety and reliability of the vehicle are improved.

[0116] The following is for reference. Figure 1 - Figure 3 The battery pack 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described in detail with reference to a specific example. It is to be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention in any particular way.

[0117] Reference Figure 1 The battery pack 100 includes: a top cover 10, a detection component 20, a heating component, and a buffer plate 40.

[0118] The top cover 10 is a conductor.

[0119] The detection component 20 is located between the buffer plate 40 and the upper cover 10 and is adhered to both the buffer plate 40 and the upper cover 10. It is used to detect the water layer on the upper cover 10.

[0120] The detection component 20 includes a conductive element 22 and an insulating layer 24.

[0121] Reference Figure 2 The conductive element 22 is disposed on the upper cover 10. An insulating layer 24 separates the conductive element 22 and the upper cover 10. A water-retaining gap 241 is provided on the insulating layer 24, extending through the thickness of the insulating layer 24. When water is contained within the water-retaining gap 241, it conducts electricity between the upper cover 10 and the conductive element 22. A detection component 20 is connected to both the upper cover 10 and the conductive element 22 to detect the circuit operating parameters between them.

[0122] The conductive element 22 is a conductive layer, which covers the insulating layer 24.

[0123] The insulating layer 24 is a double-sided adhesive layer, and the conductive component 22 is attached to the top cover 10 through the insulating layer 24.

[0124] Reference Figure 3 The upper surface of the cover 10 is provided with a protrusion 11 and a groove 12, and at least a portion of the water-holding gap 241 is provided along the edge of the protrusion 11. At least a portion of the water-holding gap 241 is provided directly opposite the groove 12.

[0125] The width of the water-holding gap 241 is d.

[0126] The heating component includes a heating film.

[0127] The heating component is electrically connected to the detection component 20. The heating component is used to heat the upper cover 10 according to the detection result of the detection component 20 to dry the water accumulation layer.

[0128] Other configurations of the battery pack 100 according to embodiments of the present invention, such as vehicles and their operation, are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0129] The following reference Figure 5 The working principle of a battery pack 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention is described.

[0130] The BMS detection component in the battery pack is activated and first checks the functionality of the water accumulation detection circuit. If the water accumulation detection circuit malfunctions, the BMS will immediately trigger an alarm to alert the operator and prompt appropriate action. If the water accumulation detection circuit functions correctly, the process continues.

[0131] Subsequently, the detection component checks whether the voltage value at point Ri is within a preset threshold range. If the voltage value is within the normal range, it indicates that the current battery pack state is stable and no immediate intervention is required. Therefore, the BMS instructs the battery pack module to enter sleep mode and disconnects the heating circuit to save energy. After a preset time t, the detection component is reawakened for subsequent monitoring and management.

[0132] However, if the voltage value at point Ri exceeds the preset threshold range, it indicates that the battery pack may be in an abnormal state and requires further inspection. At this point, the BMS will then check whether the highest temperature recorded by the NTC (negative temperature coefficient thermistor) is higher than the cooling start-up temperature T. If the highest NTC temperature is higher than T, it means that the current battery pack temperature is acceptable and there is no need to activate the heating function; therefore, the heating circuit will remain disconnected.

[0133] Conversely, if the maximum NTC temperature is lower than the cooling start-up temperature T, it indicates that the battery pack needs to be heated. In this case, the BMS will control the heating circuit to engage, thereby initiating the heating process to efficiently evaporate any accumulated water.

[0134] In summary, the workflow of the battery pack in this application embodiment reflects the intelligence and automation of the battery pack 100 in terms of water accumulation detection and heating management. It can make corresponding judgments and decisions based on real-time conditions to ensure the safety and reliability of the battery pack 100.

[0135] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "embodiment," "example," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0136] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery pack, characterized in that, include: The top cover is a conductor; A detection component is provided for detecting a water accumulation layer on the top cover. The detection component includes: a conductive element disposed on the top cover and an insulating layer between the conductive element and the top cover; the insulating layer has a water-retaining gap, which is disposed through the insulating layer in the thickness direction, and conducts electricity between the top cover and the conductive element when the water accumulation layer is contained in the water-retaining gap; the detection component is connected to the top cover and the conductive element respectively to detect the circuit operating parameters between the top cover and the conductive element. A heating component is electrically connected to the detection component. The heating component is used to heat the upper cover according to the detection result of the detection component to dry the water accumulation layer.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive element is a conductive layer, which covers the insulating layer.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, characterized in that, The conductive layer is aluminum foil or graphite paper.

4. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The insulating layer is a double-sided adhesive layer, and the conductive component is adhered to the top cover through the insulating layer.

5. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper surface of the cover is provided with a protrusion, and at least a portion of the water-containing gap is provided along the edge of the protrusion.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper surface of the cover is provided with a groove, and at least a portion of the water-holding gap is positioned opposite the groove.

7. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The width of the water-holding gap is 1-20mm.

8. The battery pack according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Also includes: A buffer plate is provided on the upper cover, and the detection component is located between the buffer plate and the upper cover.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, characterized in that, The detection component is adhered to the buffer plate and the top cover.

10. The battery pack according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The heating component includes a heating film.

11. The battery pack according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Also includes: A temperature detection device is used to detect the temperature of the battery pack. The heating component is electrically connected to the temperature detection device to control operation based on the detection results of the detection component and the temperature detection device.

12. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the battery pack according to any one of claims 1-11.

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