Early fire detection using infrared technology

Abstract

The invention provides a thermal runaway detection and prevention system. The system includes: one or more thermopiles configured to measure one or more thermal characteristics of a monitored area; and a controller having one or more processors and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to operate. The operations may include identifying the one or more thermopiles in the monitored area and receiving thermal signals from the one or more thermopiles related to one or more measured thermal characteristics of the monitored area. The operations may also include detecting a potential thermal runaway event based on the thermal signal, and initiating a control decision in response to detecting the potential thermal runaway event.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing of related patent applications This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 510,979, filed June 29, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Background Technology

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to fire suppression systems. More specifically, this disclosure relates to fire suppression systems for batteries. Modern battery technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries, are desirable for use in many energy storage applications due to their high energy density. However, the materials used in such batteries can be quite flammable and may produce flammable gases (e.g., when overheated). Once a battery ignites, the resulting fire can be difficult to suppress due to its high temperature, and these fires can spread rapidly between adjacent battery cells. Battery cells are often housed in sealed casings, making it difficult for external sources to detect potentially hazardous conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One embodiment of this disclosure is a thermal runaway detection and prevention system. The system may include: one or more thermopiles configured to measure one or more thermal characteristics of a monitored area; and a controller having one or more processors and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to operate. This operation may include: identifying one or more thermopiles in the monitored area, and receiving thermal signals from the one or more thermopiles related to one or more measured thermal characteristics of the monitored area. The operation may further include: detecting a potential thermal runaway event based on the thermal signals, and initiating a control decision in response to the detection of a potential thermal runaway event.

[0004] Another embodiment of this disclosure is a thermal runaway detection and prevention system. The system may include: an infrared sensor configured to measure one or more thermal characteristics of a monitored area; and a controller having one or more processors and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to operate. This operation may include: identifying one or more zones within the monitored area, and receiving thermal signals from the infrared sensor associated with one or more measured thermal characteristics, wherein the one or more measured thermal characteristics are associated with one or more identified zones. The operation may further include: detecting a potential thermal runaway event based on the thermal signals, and initiating a control decision in response to detecting the potential thermal runaway event.

[0005] Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a method for detecting and mitigating a potential thermal runaway event. The method can include identifying, via a controller, one or more hot spots in a monitored area, and receiving, from the one or more hot spots in the monitored area, a thermal signal related to one or more measured thermal characteristics of the monitored area. The method can also include detecting, via the controller and based on the thermal signal, a potential thermal runaway event, and initiating, via the controller, a control decision in response to detecting the potential thermal runaway event.

[0006] Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a method for detecting and mitigating a potential thermal runaway event. The method can include identifying, via a controller, one or more hot spots in a monitored area, and receiving, from the one or more hot spots in the monitored area, a thermal signal related to one or more measured thermal characteristics of the monitored area. The method can also include detecting, via the controller and based on the thermal signal, a potential thermal runaway event, and initiating, via the controller, a control decision in response to detecting the potential thermal runaway event. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a fire detection and mitigation system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0008] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a battery system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0009] Figure 3 is an illustration of a fire detection and prevention system in a monitored area in accordance with some embodiments.

[0010] Figure 4 is another illustration of a fire detection and prevention system in a monitored area in accordance with some embodiments. Figure 3

[0011] is another illustration of a fire detection and prevention system in a monitored area in accordance with some embodiments. Figure 5 Figure 3 is another illustration of a fire detection and prevention system in a monitored area in accordance with some embodiments.

[0012] Figure 6 Figure 3 is another illustration of a fire detection and prevention system in a monitored area in accordance with some embodiments.

[0013] Figure 7 is a block diagram of a controller in accordance with some embodiments. Figure 3

[0014] Figure 8 is a flowchart of a process for a fire detection and prevention system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0015] Figure 9 ​​​is another flowchart of a process for a fire detection and prevention system according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing only specific embodiments and is not intended to be limiting.

[0017] SUMMARY Referring generally to the figures, a fire detection and suppression system for preventing, eliminating, and / or mitigating a malfunction or thermal runaway event is shown according to embodiments. The system can include one or more thermoelectric piles configured to monitor (e.g., measure, determine, analyze, etc.) thermal characteristics of a monitored area (e.g., an interior housing of a battery pack, one or more components of a battery pack, including battery cells, battery modules, and / or sub-packs, etc.). The system can include a sensor (e.g., an infrared temperature sensor, a high-speed infrared camera, an infrared mesh sensor, one or more thermoelectric piles, etc.) configured to monitor (e.g., measure, determine, analyze, etc.) one or more thermal characteristics of a monitored area (e.g., a room of a storage facility, an interior housing of a battery pack, etc.). The thermal characteristics can include, for example, radiant heat, thermal radiation, infrared thermal radiation, temperature, temperature gradient, or another suitable thermal characteristic.

[0018] The system also includes a controller having one or more processors and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations. The operations can include identifying one or more thermoelectric piles in the monitored area. In some embodiments, the controller identifies the thermoelectric piles based on one or more pieces of information (e.g., based on user input, hard-coded rules, learned thermal characteristic readings, configuration data, one or more inputs including monitored area layout, component configuration, etc.). The operations also include receiving thermal signals related to the monitored area from the one or more thermoelectric piles and detecting a potential thermal runaway event based on the thermal signals. In some embodiments, the controller detects the potential thermal runaway event based on a comparison of the received thermal signals to a threshold thermal condition (e.g., a maximum radiant temperature or thermal radiation measurement at the thermoelectric pile, a maximum deviation of a measured thermal radiation at the thermoelectric pile, a maximum radiant temperature or thermal radiation measurement across multiple thermoelectric piles, an average radiant temperature or thermal radiation measurement across one or more thermoelectric piles exceeding a certain threshold, etc.). The operations further include initiating a control decision in response to detecting the potential thermal runaway event. In some embodiments, initiating the control decision includes transmitting an indicator (e.g., an alert, an alarm, a message, an instruction, etc.) to a device or transmitting a control signal to a device (e.g., transmitting an activation signal, a control signal, a deactivation signal, etc. to a suppression system).

[0019] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to identify one or more zones in the monitored area. In some embodiments, the controller identifies, detects, or creates zones (e.g., based on user input, hard-coded rules, learned thermal readings or data, one or more inputs including monitored area layout, component configuration, etc.). This operation further includes receiving, from a sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor, an infrared grid sensor, etc.), a thermal signal related to one or more of the identified zones, and detecting a potential thermal runaway event based on the thermal signal.

[0020] In some embodiments, the controller can receive, from one or more sensors (e.g., infrared sensors and / or one or more thermoelectric piles), a thermal signal related to the monitored area. For example, the controller can be configured to receive, from the sensors, a thermal signal related to one or more of the identified zones. In some embodiments, the controller can detect a potential thermal runaway event based on the thermal signal (e.g., via a comparison of the received thermal signal to a threshold condition). In response to detecting a potential thermal runaway event (e.g., via a temperature signal received from a temperature sensor), the controller can receive, from one or more thermoelectric piles, a thermal signal related to thermal characteristics associated with the monitored area (e.g., one or more thermoelectric piles). For example, in response to the controller detecting a potential thermal runaway event at an identified zone, the controller can be configured to receive, from a set of one or more thermoelectric piles located within the identified zone, a thermal signal. The controller can analyze the thermal signal from the one or more thermoelectric piles (e.g., compare the signal to a threshold condition, etc.), for example, to identify an area within the identified zone experiencing a potential thermal runaway event, confirm and / or deny detection of a thermal runaway event, and / or detect additional or fewer potential thermal runaway events. In response to detecting a thermal runaway event, the controller can further initiate one or more control decisions.

[0021] Advantageously, one or more sensors (e.g., infrared sensors, one or more thermoelectric piles, or a combination thereof) of the fire detection and prevention system, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the accompanying description, can be used individually and / or in combination to facilitate early detection of potential failure or thermal runaway events before they occur (e.g., within a battery pack, within a storage facility, etc.).

[0022] Fire suppression system Reference Figure 1In accordance with embodiments, a fire detection, fire prevention, fire mitigation, or fire suppression system is shown as system 10. In one embodiment, system 10 is a chemical fire prevention, mitigation, or suppression system. System 10 can detect, mitigate, and / or prevent a malfunction or thermal runaway event. System 10 can also be configured to distribute or dispense a fire suppressant onto and / or near a fire, for example, to suppress or extinguish the fire and prevent the fire from spreading. System 10 can be used alone or in combination with other types of fire suppression systems (e.g., building sprinkler systems, handheld fire extinguishers, etc.). In some embodiments, multiple systems 10 are used in combination with one another to cover a larger area (e.g., each in a different room of a building).

[0023] System 10 can be used in a variety of different applications. Different applications can require different types of fire suppressants and different levels of flowability. System 10 can be used with a variety of different fire suppressants, such as powders, liquids, foams, or other fluids or flowable materials. System 10 can be used in a variety of stationary applications. For example, system 10 can be used in a room or storage facility (e.g., a battery storage facility for chemical fires, etc.), within a battery pack itself (e.g., for chemical fires, etc.), in a data center (e.g., for electronic device fires, etc.), at a gas station (e.g., for gasoline or propane fires, etc.), in a kitchen (e.g., for oil or grease fires, etc.), in a library, or other stationary applications. Alternatively, system 10 can be used in a variety of mobile applications. For example, system 10 can be incorporated into a land vehicle (e.g., a race car vehicle, a forestry vehicle, a construction vehicle, an agricultural vehicle, a mining vehicle, a passenger vehicle, a garbage vehicle, etc.), an air vehicle (e.g., a jet, an airplane, a helicopter, etc.), or a water vehicle (e.g., a boat, a submarine, etc.).

[0024] Still referring to Figure 1 System 10 includes a fire suppressant tank 12 (e.g., a vessel, a container, a cylinder, a drum, a can, a cartridge, or a canister, etc.). Fire suppressant tank 12 defines an interior volume 14 that is filled (e.g., partially filled, fully filled, etc.) with a fire suppressant. In some embodiments, the fire suppressant is not typically pressurized (e.g., near atmospheric pressure). In other embodiments, the fire suppressant is pressurized (e.g., above atmospheric pressure). Fire suppressant tank 12 includes an exchange section shown as a neck 16. Neck 16 allows for the flow of exhaust gases into interior volume 14 and the flow of fire suppressant out of interior volume 14 so that fire suppressant can be supplied to mitigate a malfunction or thermal runaway event and / or a fire.

[0025] The system 10 further includes a cartridge 20 (e.g., a vessel, a container, a cylinder, a drum, a can, a canister, a cartridge, or the like). The cartridge 20 defines an interior volume 22 configured to contain a volume of pressurized discharge gas. The discharge gas can be an inert gas. In some embodiments, the discharge gas is air, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen. The cartridge 20 includes an outlet section or outlet section shown as a neck 24. The neck 24 defines an outlet fluidly coupled to the interior volume 22. Thus, the discharge gas can exit the cartridge 20 through the neck 24. The cartridge 20 can be reloadable or disposable after use. In some embodiments in which the cartridge 20 is reloadable, additional discharge gas can be supplied to the interior volume 22 through the neck 24.

[0026] The system 10 further includes a valve, piercing device, or activator assembly shown as an actuator 30. The actuator 30 includes an adapter shown as a receiver 32 that can receive the neck 24 of the cartridge 20. The neck 24 is selectively coupled to the receiver 32 (e.g., by a threaded connection or the like). Decoupling the cartridge 20 from the actuator 30 facilitates removal and replacement of the cartridge 20 when it is depleted. The actuator 30 is fluidly coupled to the neck 16 of the fire suppressant tank 12 by a conduit or pipe shown as a hose 34.

[0027] The actuator 30 includes an activation mechanism 36 configured to selectively fluidly couple the interior volume 22 to the neck 16. In some embodiments, the activation mechanism 36 includes one or more valves that selectively fluidly couple the interior volume 22 to the hose 34. The valves can be mechanically actuated, electrically actuated, manually actuated, or otherwise actuated. The valves can open to release a portion of the discharge gas from the cartridge 20, close, and then open again to release another portion of the discharge gas from the cartridge. In some such embodiments, the neck 24 includes a valve that selectively prevents the discharge gas from flowing through the neck 24. Such a valve can be manually operated (e.g., by a lever or knob located on the outside of the cartridge 20 or the like) or can automatically open upon engagement of the neck 24 with the actuator 30. This valve facilitates removal of the cartridge 20 prior to depletion of the discharge gas. In other embodiments, the cartridge 20 is sealed and the activation mechanism 36 includes pins, knives, spikes, or other sharp objects that the actuator 30 forces into contact with the cartridge 20. This pierces the outer surface of the cartridge 20, thereby fluidly coupling the interior volume 22 with the actuator 30. In some embodiments, the activation mechanism 36 only pierces the cartridge 20 when the actuator 30 is activated. In some such embodiments, the activation mechanism 36 omits any valves that control the flow of discharge gas to the hose 34. In other embodiments, the activation mechanism 36 automatically pierces the cartridge 20 upon engagement of the neck 24 with the actuator 30.

[0028] Once the actuator 30 is activated and the cartridge 20 is fluidly coupled to the hose 34, the exhaust gas flows freely from the cartridge 20 through the neck 24, the actuator 30, and the hose 34 and into the neck 16. The exhaust gas forces the fire suppressant from the fire suppressant tank 12 through the neck 16 and into a conduit or hose shown as pipe 40. In one embodiment, the neck 16 directs the exhaust gas from the hose 34 to a top section of the interior volume 14. The neck 16 defines an outlet near the bottom of the fire suppressant tank 12 (e.g., using a siphon or the like). The pressure of the exhaust gas at the top of the interior volume 14 forces the fire suppressant out through the outlet and into the pipe 40. In other embodiments, the exhaust gas enters a bladder within the fire suppressant tank 12, and the bladder squeezes the fire suppressant to force the fire suppressant out through the neck 16. In still other embodiments, the pipe 40 and the hose 34 are coupled to the fire suppressant tank 12 at different locations. For example, the hose 34 can be coupled to the top of the fire suppressant tank 12, while the pipe 40 can be coupled to the bottom of the fire suppressant tank 12. In some embodiments, the fire suppressant tank 12 includes a burst disk that prevents the fire suppressant from flowing out through the neck 16 until the pressure within the interior volume 14 exceeds a threshold pressure. Once the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure, the burst disk ruptures, thereby permitting the flow of fire suppressant. Alternatively, the fire suppressant tank 12 can include a valve, a piercing device, or another type of opening device or activator assembly that fluidly couples the interior volume 14 with the pipe 40 in response to the pressure within the interior volume 14 exceeding a threshold pressure. Such an opening device can be configured to activate mechanically (e.g., the force of the pressure causes the opening device to activate, etc.) or the opening device can include a separate pressure sensor in communication with the interior volume 14 that causes the opening device to activate.

[0029] The pipe 40 is fluidly coupled to one or more outlets or injectors shown as nozzles 42. The fire suppressant flows through the pipe 40 and to the nozzles 42. The nozzles 42 each define one or more orifices through which the fire suppressant is expelled, forming a spray of fire suppressant that covers a desired area. The spray from the nozzles 42 can then mitigate or prevent a malfunction or thermal runaway event, or suppress or extinguish a fire within the area. The orifices of the nozzles 42 can be shaped to control the shape of the spray of fire suppressant exiting the nozzles 42. The nozzles 42 can be aimed so that the spray covers a particular point of interest (e.g., a particular block of battery packs in a storage facility, a particular battery cell within a battery pack, a particular component within an engine compartment of a vehicle, etc.). The nozzles 42 can be configured so that all of the nozzles 42 are activated simultaneously, and / or the nozzles 42 can be configured so that only the nozzles 42 near a malfunction, thermal runaway event, and / or fire are activated.

[0030] System 10 further includes a control system 50 capable of detecting, mitigating, and / or preventing malfunctions or thermal runaway events. The control system may further control the activation of actuator 30. For example, control system 50 may be configured to monitor one or more conditions and determine whether these conditions indicate a potential malfunction or thermal runaway event, or a nearby fire. Upon detecting a potential malfunction or thermal runaway event, control system 50 may implement one or more control decisions. For example, control system 50 may transmit warnings, alarms, or other indicators (e.g., alarm messages, error messages, notifications, etc.) to a device (e.g., a remote device) indicating that a potential malfunction or thermal runaway event has been detected. Control system 50 may further activate one or more components of system 10 (e.g., actuator 30) to expel extinguishing agent from nozzle 42 and mitigate or prevent malfunctions, thermal runaway events, and / or fires.

[0031] In some embodiments, actuator 30 is mechanically controlled. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the control system 50 includes a mechanical system comprising a tension member (e.g., rope, cable, etc.) of a cable 52, shown as applying tension to the actuator 30. Without this tension, the actuator 30 is activated. The cable 52 is coupled to a fusible link 54, which in turn is coupled to a stationary object (e.g., a wall, ground, etc.). The fusible link 54 comprises two plates held together with a solder alloy having a predetermined melting point. A first plate is coupled to the cable 52, and a second plate is attached to the stationary object. When the ambient temperature around the fusible link 54 exceeds the melting point of the solder alloy, the solder melts, allowing the two plates to separate. This releases the tension on the cable 52, and the actuator 30 is then activated. In other embodiments, the control system 50 is another type of mechanical system that applies a force to the actuator 30 to activate it. Control system 50 may include linkages, motors, hydraulic or pneumatic components (e.g., pumps, compressors, valves, cylinders, hoses, etc.), or other types of mechanical components configured to activate actuator 30. Some parts of control system 50 (e.g., compressors, hoses, valves, and other pneumatic components, etc.) may be shared with other parts of system 100 (e.g., manually activated system 60), or vice versa. Actuator 30 may be additionally or alternatively configured to be activated in response to receiving a signal from control system 50, as discussed below.

[0032] Still referencing Figure 1The control system 50 includes a controller 56. The controller 56 may include processing circuitry with a processor and memory (discussed below), and the processor may execute one or more instructions stored in the memory to perform any of the functions described herein. For example, the controller 56 may monitor signals from one or more sensors, shown as temperature sensors 58 (e.g., a high-speed infrared camera, an infrared grid sensor, etc.). The controller 56 may use the signals from temperature sensors 58 to determine the temperature profile of one or more components within a monitored area. The controller 56 may use the signals from temperature sensors 58 to determine the distribution (e.g., temperature profile) of one or more components of a battery pack within a storage facility. The controller 56 may determine that the temperature profile of a portion or all of the battery pack exceeds a predetermined threshold standard (e.g., gas emissions, terminal temperature, external temperature, rate of temperature increase, etc.), which may indicate a potential fault or thermal runaway event. In response, the controller 56 may implement one or more control decisions, such as transmitting a warning or alarm (e.g., a warning message) to a remote device indicating that a potential fault or thermal runaway event has been detected. In some embodiments, the controller 56 uses signals from the temperature sensor 58 to determine the temperature distribution of the battery cells within the battery pack, for example, to detect potential faults or thermal runaway events within the battery pack (discussed below).

[0033] System 10 further includes a manual activation system 60 that can control the activation of actuator 30. Manual activation system 60 can activate actuator 30 in response to input from an operator. Manual activation system 60 may be included instead of control system 50 or otherwise. Both control system 50 and manual activation system 60 can activate actuator 30 independently. For example, control system 50 can activate actuator 30 regardless of any input from manual activation system 60, and vice versa.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the manual activation system 60 includes a mechanical system comprising a tension member (e.g., rope, cable, etc.) shown as a cable 62 coupled to the actuator 30. The cable 62 is coupled to a human-machine interface device (e.g., button, lever, switch, knob, pull ring, etc.) shown as a button 64. The button 64 can apply a pulling force to the cable 62 when pressed, and this pulling force is transmitted to the actuator 30. The actuator 30 is activated upon receiving the pulling force. In other embodiments, the manual activation system 60 is another type of mechanical system that applies force to the actuator 30 to activate it. The manual activation system 60 may include linkages, motors, hydraulic or pneumatic components (e.g., pumps, compressors, valves, cylinders, hoses, etc.), or other types of mechanical components configured to activate the actuator 30.

[0035] Actuator 30 may be additionally or alternatively configured to be activated in response to receiving a signal from manual activation system 60. For example... Figure 1 As shown, button 64 is operatively coupled to controller 56. Controller 56 can be configured to monitor the state of the human-machine interface device (e.g., engaged, disengaged, etc.). Upon determining that the human-machine interface device is engaged, the controller provides a signal to activate actuator 30. By way of example, controller 56 can be configured to monitor signals from button 64 to determine whether button 64 is pressed. Upon detecting that button 64 has been pressed, controller 56 sends a signal to actuator 30 to activate actuator 30.

[0036] The control system 50 and the manual activation system 60 are shown to activate the actuator 30 by both mechanical means (e.g., by applying tension via a cable, by applying pressurized liquid, by applying pressurized gas, etc.) and electrical means (e.g., by providing an electrical signal). However, it should be understood that the control system 50 and / or the manual activation system 60 can be configured to activate the actuator 30 only mechanically, only electrically, or by a combination of both. For example, the control system 50 may omit the controller 56 and activate the actuator 30 based on input from the fusible link 54. As another example, the control system 50 may omit the fusible link 54 and activate the actuator 30 using input from the controller 56.

[0037] Battery or power system refer to Figure 2 According to an embodiment, the power system or battery system shown as battery system 200 includes an energy storage device, energy storage component, battery assembly, power source, or electrical energy source, shown as battery pack 202. Battery pack 202 may store energy (e.g., chemically) and later discharge the stored energy as electrical energy to power one or more electrical loads (e.g., electric motors, resistive elements, lamps, speakers, etc.). In some embodiments, battery pack 202 can be recharged using electrical energy (e.g., from the power grid, from a fuel cell, from a solar panel, from an electric motor driven as a generator, etc.).

[0038] Battery pack 202 includes a housing or enclosure, shown as a packaging shell 204, which defines a volume for housing components of battery pack 202 (e.g., sub-pack 210). The packaging shell 204 can seal and isolate the components of battery pack 202 from the surrounding environment (e.g., limit or prevent the ingress of water or dust). The packaging shell 204 may define one or more ports to facilitate the transfer of electrical energy, coolant, fire extinguishing agent, or other materials into or out of battery pack 202.

[0039] Battery pack 202 includes a series of battery portions or segments, shown as sub-packs 210. For example, battery pack 202 may include four sub-packs 210. In other embodiments, battery pack 202 includes more or fewer sub-packs 210. Each sub-pack 210 may store a portion of the energy stored in battery pack 202. Each sub-pack 210 includes a housing 212 that houses the components of sub-pack 210 (e.g., battery module 220).

[0040] Each subgroup 210 includes a series of battery portions or segments, shown as battery modules 220. For example, each subgroup 210 may include eight battery modules 220. In other embodiments, each subgroup 210 may include more or fewer battery modules 220. Each battery module 220 may store a portion of the energy stored in the corresponding subgroup 210. Each battery module 220 includes a housing 222 that houses the components of the battery module 220 (e.g., battery cells 250).

[0041] Each battery module 220 includes a series of battery portions or segments, shown as battery cells 250. For example, each battery module 220 may include hundreds of battery cells 250. In other embodiments, each battery module 220 includes more or fewer battery cells 250. Each battery cell 250 may store a portion of the energy stored by the corresponding battery module 220.

[0042] In some embodiments, the battery cell 250 is a lithium-ion (i.e., Li-ion) battery cell. Each battery cell 250 can be configured to receive electrical energy, chemically store the received energy, and release the stored electrical energy. Figure 2 As shown, the battery cells 250 are arranged in adjacent rows within the battery module 220, thereby reducing the blank space within the battery module 220 and reducing the overall size of the battery pack 202. The battery cells 250 can be cylindrical, prismatic, pouch, or other shape-factor battery cells.

[0043] Battery cells 250 can be electrically connected to each other within battery pack 202. For example, in one arrangement, (a) battery cells 250 within each battery module 220 are electrically connected to each other, (b) battery modules 220 within each sub-pack 210 are electrically connected to each other, and (c) sub-packs 210 are electrically connected to each other (e.g., at least...). Figure 2(As shown). The collective arrangement of battery cell 250, battery module 220, and subgroup 210 is electrically connected to a connector or port shown as electrical port 260. Electrical port 260 electrically connects battery cell 250 to one or more power sources and / or electrical loads shown as electrical load / power source 262. Battery cell 250 can discharge through electrical port 260 to power electrical load / power source 262. Battery cell 250 can receive electrical energy through electrical port 260 to charge battery cell 250.

[0044] In some embodiments, one or more electrical connections between (a) battery cells 250 within each battery module 220, (b) battery modules 220 within each subgroup 210, and (c) subgroup 210 and / or any combination thereof include one or more thermocouples (not shown). For example, the electrical connection may include one or more thermocouples, for instance, to measure the temperature at one or more battery cells 250, one or more battery modules 220, and / or one or more subgroups 210.

[0045] In other embodiments, the battery pack 202 includes one or more thermopiles, shown as thermopile 252, 254, 256, at (a) battery cells 250 within each battery module 220, (b) battery modules 220 within each subgroup 210, and (c) subgroup 210 and / or any combination thereof. Thermopile 252, 254, 256 may be configured to measure local temperature characteristics (e.g., radiative heat, thermal radiation, infrared thermal radiation, temperature gradient, etc.). For example, thermopile 252 may measure temperature characteristics at battery cell 250, thermopile 254 may measure temperature characteristics at battery module 220, and / or thermopile 256 may measure temperature characteristics at subgroup 210, etc. In embodiments, thermopile 252, 254, 256 may transmit one or more signals (e.g., electrical signals, etc.) representing the measured temperature characteristics to one or more remote devices (e.g., controllers), as discussed below. In other embodiments, thermopile 252, 254, 256 may measure temperature characteristics and / or transmit temperature signals associated with any other suitable component of the individual battery cell 250, battery module 220, battery sub-group 210, and / or battery pack 202.

[0046] In other embodiments, thermopile 252, 254, 256 is also configured to measure the temperature (e.g., current temperature, absolute temperature, temperature deviation, or variance, etc.) at one or more battery cells 250, one or more battery modules 220, and / or one or more subgroups 210. Thermopile 252, 254, 256 can be arranged or spaced around one or more components of battery pack 202 in any suitable configuration (e.g., uniformly, spaced at predefined distances, with staggered configurations, randomly, etc.). Advantageously, thermopile 252, 254, 256 can measure and / or transmit temperature characteristics (e.g., radiative heat, thermal radiation, infrared thermal radiation, temperature gradient, etc.) at a more global scale (e.g., compared to individual thermocouple connections) to more easily, efficiently, and accurately measure the temperature characteristics or distribution of one or more components of battery pack 202 (e.g., battery cells 250, battery modules 220, and / or subgroups 210, etc.). At this point, thermopile 252, 254, 256 can be configured to measure and / or transmit temperature characteristics (e.g., radiative heat, thermal radiation, etc.) that can be used to more effectively detect and / or prevent potential faults or thermal runaway events (e.g., within battery pack 202).

[0047] Battery cells 250, battery modules 220, and subgroups 210 can be arranged in series or parallel to control the output voltage of battery pack 202 at electrical port 260 and the capacity of battery pack 202 at that output voltage. Battery cells 250 can be arranged in series to increase the output voltage of battery pack 202. Battery cells 250 can be arranged in parallel to increase the capacity of battery pack 202 (e.g., measured in ampere-hours). For example, battery modules 220 within each subgroup 210 can be connected in series to form a string. Subgroups 210 can be connected in parallel to form a series-parallel connection.

[0048] In other embodiments, the battery pack 202 is arranged in other ways. For example, the battery pack 202 may include more or fewer battery cells 250, battery modules 220, and / or subgroups 210. Furthermore, the battery cells 250, battery modules 220, and / or subgroups 210 may be arranged in rows, columns, spiral patterns, or otherwise positioned within the packaging housing 204. In some embodiments, the subgroups 210 are omitted, and the battery modules 220 are positioned directly within the battery pack 202.

[0049] In some embodiments, the battery system 200 includes a cooling subsystem, shown as a cooling system 270. The cooling system 270 includes a coolant source 272 that can supply a coolant flow to one or more conduits or cooling channels. The coolant source 272 may include pumps, reservoirs, valves, and / or other components that facilitate the handling of the coolant. The coolant source 272 may also include one or more radiators or heat exchangers that facilitate the release of heat energy from the coolant (e.g., to the surrounding atmosphere).

[0050] In some embodiments, the cooling channel enters the packaging housing 204 at an inlet and exits the packaging housing 204 at an outlet. The cooling channel may pass through the housing 232 of the sub-pack 210 and the housing 242 of the battery module 220, and pass over (e.g., in contact with) adjacent battery cells 250. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cooling channel is contained within and / or passes along the walls of the packaging housing 204, housing 232, and / or housing 242. The cooling channel may facilitate conduction between the coolant and the battery cells 250, such that heat generated by the battery cells 250 (e.g., during charging or discharging) is transferred to the coolant. The coolant flow then returns the heat to the coolant source 272 for discharge. Accordingly, the cooling system 270 facilitates maintaining a constant low operating temperature for the battery pack 202.

[0051] Still referencing Figure 2 The battery system 200 further includes a fire detection, fire prevention, fire mitigation, or fire suppression system. For example, the fire detection, prevention, mitigation, or suppression system could be... Figure 1 System 10. As discussed above, system 10 can detect potential faults or thermal runaway events and / or extinguish fires within battery pack 202 by supplying a extinguishing agent. The extinguishing agent can suppress an active fire (e.g., prevent the fire from approaching oxygen). The extinguishing agent can also cool battery cell 250, thereby preventing battery cell 250 from subsequently igniting or reigniting. System 10 can advantageously prevent, resolve, or otherwise mitigate thermal runaway of battery cell 250.

[0052] As discussed above, system 10 includes a container (e.g., canister, vessel, cylinder, storage tank, etc.) or source of extinguishing agent. The extinguishing agent may include a gas (e.g., inert gas, nitrogen, etc.), a liquid extinguishing agent (e.g., water), a gel extinguishing agent, a dry chemical extinguishing agent, another type of extinguishing agent, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, system 10 may include an actuator that can initiate the transfer (e.g., flow) of the extinguishing agent from the extinguishing agent container to the battery pack 202. For example, the activator may include a valve or a puncture-sealing actuator that selectively allows the extinguishing agent to flow out of the extinguishing agent container. Alternatively, the activator may include a pump that can propel the flow of the extinguishing agent. Additionally, system 10 may include one or more conduits (e.g., pipes, hoses, tubes, etc.) or a distribution network that can transfer the extinguishing agent from the extinguishing agent container to the battery pack 202. The distribution network can also transfer the extinguishing agent to the outside of the battery pack 202. For example, the distribution network can supply extinguishing agent to an outlet (e.g., a nozzle) that is positioned to direct the extinguishing agent to the outside of the housing 204. Alternatively, the distribution network can deliver the extinguishing agent to the interior of the battery pack 202 (e.g., inside the housing 204, inside the housing 212, inside the housing 222, etc.).

[0053] Fault or thermal runaway detection and warning system Now for reference Figures 3 to 6 According to an embodiment, a fire detection, prevention, mitigation, and / or suppression system 300 is illustrated. In some embodiments, system 300 is or includes a control system 50. System 300 can detect potential faults or thermal runaway events (e.g., maximum thermal radiation conditions, deviations from thermal radiation conditions, maximum temperature conditions, etc.) in a monitored area. In some embodiments, the system can implement one or more control decisions in response to the detection of a potential fault or thermal runaway event. For example, system 300 can be configured to detect potential faults or thermal runaway events in battery pack 202 (e.g., battery module 220, battery cell 250, etc.) and / or transmit warnings or alarms (e.g., messages, alert messages, etc.) indicating the detection of a potential fault or thermal runaway event. In some embodiments, system 300 is also configured to activate one or more components of system 10 in response to the detection of a potential fault or thermal runaway event. For example, system 300 can be configured to activate system 10 such that exhaust gas exits the internal volume 22 of cylinder 20 through neck 24, and extinguishing agent exits the internal volume 14 of extinguishing agent canister 12 through neck 16 and enters the monitored area. In some embodiments, system 300 includes all the functionality of control system 50. In this respect, in some embodiments, system 300 replaces control system 50.

[0054] like Figures 3 to 6As shown, system 300 includes a controller 302, which includes processing circuitry having a processor 304 and a memory 306. The processor 304 can execute one or more instructions stored in the memory 306 to perform any of the functions described herein. For example, controller 302 can monitor signals from one or more sensors or other components (e.g., thermopile or thermopile group, high-speed infrared camera, infrared grid sensor, etc.) and / or determine the distribution of one or more components within a monitored area. For example, controller 302 can monitor signals from one or more sensors and determine the temperature distribution of components within battery pack 202 in the storage facility, as discussed below. In other embodiments, controller 302 monitors signals from one or more sensors and determines the temperature distribution of battery cells 250 within battery pack 202, as discussed below. Controller 302 can determine whether the temperature distribution exceeds predetermined threshold characteristics (e.g., maximum thermal radiation condition, deviation from thermal radiation condition, threshold temperature condition, terminal temperature, external temperature, rate of temperature change, gas emission characteristics, etc.) that can indicate a potential fault or thermal runaway event. Controller 302 may further implement one or more control decisions (e.g., transmitting alerts or alarms, activating components of system 10, etc.), as discussed below. In some embodiments, controller 302 is Figure 1 The controller 56.

[0055] like Figures 3 to 4 As shown, system 300 also includes one or more sensors, shown as sensor 310. Sensor 310 may be a high-speed infrared camera. In some embodiments, sensor 310 is an infrared grid sensor whose field of view or grid consists of multiple pixels. Sensor 310 (e.g., a high-speed infrared camera, an infrared grid sensor, etc.) can detect (e.g., identify, receive, determine, etc.) signals with predefined characteristics. For example, sensor 310 may be configured to detect infrared signals. In some embodiments, sensor 310 may detect infrared signals (e.g., infrared radiation, etc.) within a predetermined wavelength range (e.g., between 0.75 μm and 1.4 μm, between 1.4 μm and 3 μm, between 3 μm and 6 μm, between 8 μm and 15 μm, between 15 μm and 1,000 μm) or another suitable wavelength range. The sensor 310 can also be configured to detect infrared signals within a predetermined frequency range (e.g., between less than 200 terahertz (THz), between 200 THz and 400 THz, between 100 THz and 200 THz, between 35 THz and 100 THz, between 20 THz and 35 THz, between 0.5 THz and 20 THz) or another suitable frequency range.

[0056] In other embodiments, sensor 310 includes an aspirating smoke detector configured to identify characteristics of smoke or gas generated (e.g., exhaust gas) by components in the monitored area when operating at temperatures above standard operating conditions. In other embodiments, sensor 310 includes an optical sensor that detects light (e.g., light generated by a fire). In still other embodiments, sensor 310 can have any combination of the aforementioned sensing capabilities. In some embodiments, sensor 310 is... Figure 1 Temperature sensor 58.

[0057] Sensor 310 can sense one or more thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, gas emissions, light, etc.) of a region or field identified as monitored area 312. For example, sensor 310 can be configured to sense characteristics of one or more portions (e.g., areas, groups, zones, etc.) of monitored area 312 and transmit the sensed readings to controller 302. Sensor 310 can provide real-time sensor readings to controller 302. For example, sensor 310 can provide controller 302 with one or more signals indicating one or more real-time thermal readings (e.g., radiant heat measurements, thermal radiation measurements, temperature measurements, monitored temperature values, sensed temperature values, etc.). Sensor 310 can provide controller 302 with thermal readings relating to the entire monitored area 312. In some embodiments, sensor 310 can provide controller 302 with thermal readings relating to one or more areas, groups, or zones that constitute part and / or all of monitored area 312. In some embodiments, the thermal readings are aggregated readings (e.g., aggregated thermal readings within monitored area 312, within groups, areas, or zones of monitored area 312, etc.). In other embodiments, the thermal readings are discrete readings (e.g., thermal readings associated with discrete portions of the monitored area 312, discrete components within the monitored area 312, etc.).

[0058] Sensor 310 can sense the characteristics of a group of one or more components within the monitored area 312. For example, sensor 310 can sense the characteristics of one or more battery packs 202 or their components (e.g., sub-pack 210, battery module 220, etc.). Sensor 310 can scan one or more battery packs 202 or their components and determine the thermal characteristics associated with each battery pack 202 and / or associated portions of the battery pack 202 (e.g., radiative heat, thermal radiation, temperature, gas emissions, rate of change of thermal radiation, rate of change of temperature, etc.) to determine one or more heat distributions.

[0059] Sensor 310 can sense characteristics of a group of one or more additional components within the monitored area 312. For example, sensor 310 can sense the thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, gas emissions, etc.) of one or more housings, power connectors, charging ports, power cords, cooling systems, and / or other components within one or more zones of the monitored area 312. Sensor 310 can sense the thermal characteristics of components within one or more zones and transmit the sensed readings to controller 302, as discussed below. Sensor 310 can be used to detect any other suitable characteristics (e.g., pressure, gas emissions, liquid flow rate, liquid level, power output, power input, etc.) or any combination thereof associated with the operation of battery pack 202, which can be incorporated into any of the functions described herein.

[0060] like Figures 3 to 4 As shown, sensor 310 can be positioned (e.g., coupled, mounted, removably attached, etc.) at an external portion of the monitored area 312. For example, sensor 310 can be positioned at the center of the ceiling of a room (e.g., the monitored area 312). This room can be a room or area of ​​storage facilities and can be configured to selectively accommodate or store one or more battery packs 202, such as... Figures 3 to 4 As shown. In this respect, sensor 310 can be configured to monitor the thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, etc.) of one or more battery packs 202 within a room of the storage facility, for example, to detect and / or prevent potential malfunctions or thermal runaway events within the facility. In some embodiments, sensor 310 is located at another portion and / or another component (e.g., a corner, side wall, rear wall, door, etc.) of the monitored area 312.

[0061] For reference Figure 3 The sensor 310 can be a high-speed infrared camera. The sensor 310 can sense the real-time thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, gas emissions, etc.) of the entire monitored area 312 (e.g., T). MA (etc.). At this point, sensor 310 can be configured to measure (and / or generate) a thermal map (e.g., a heat map, etc.) of the entire monitored area 312. Sensor 310 can be further configured to provide real-time sensor readings (e.g., T) to controller 302. MA (Summarized sensor readings, discrete sensor readings, heatmaps, etc.)

[0062] In some embodiments, sensor 310 can sense and / or identify one or more regions (e.g., groups) within the monitored area 312 (e.g., in real time). For example, sensor 310 can sense and / or identify thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, gas emissions, etc.) associated with one or more components of battery pack 202 (shown as groups 320, 322, 324, 326). For example, sensor 310 can sense and / or identify thermal characteristics associated with one or more battery modules 220 (e.g., groups 320, 322), one or more subgroups 210 (e.g., groups 324, 326), and / or any other suitable component of battery pack 202. Sensor 310 can sense multiple thermal characteristics within each group 320-326 and / or generate group thermal characteristic readings for each group 320-326 (e.g., T0 ... G1 T G2 T G3 T G4 ...T Zn Group thermal readings may include individual thermal readings or thermal readings based on each group 320-326, such as minimum, maximum, average, etc. Group thermal readings may indicate the thermal characteristics of portions or regions associated with battery pack 202, for example, to facilitate the detection and / or prevention of potential malfunctions or thermal runaway events, as discussed below.

[0063] Still referencing Figure 3 Battery pack 202 may include one or more thermopiles (shown as thermopile 252, 254, 256), as discussed above. Thermopile 252, 254, 256 may measure one or more characteristics (e.g., thermal characteristics, such as radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, etc.) of one or more components (e.g., components of battery pack 202) within the monitored area 312. For example, thermopile 252 may measure thermal characteristics at battery cell 250, thermopile 254 may measure thermal characteristics at battery module 220, and / or thermopile 256 may measure thermal characteristics at subgroup 210, etc. In some embodiments, thermopile 252, 254, 256 may measure thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, gas emissions, etc.) associated with one or more components of battery pack 202, which indicate or represent thermal characteristics within one or more groups (e.g., groups 320, 322, 324, 326). For example, thermopile 252 can measure thermal characteristics associated with (or represent) battery module 220 (e.g., group 320), thermopile 254 can measure thermal characteristics associated with one or more battery modules 220 (e.g., groups 320, 322), and / or thermopile 256 can measure thermal characteristics associated with one or more subgroups 210 (e.g., groups 324, 326).

[0064] Thermopile 252, 254, 256 can transmit sensed readings to controller 302, as discussed below. For example, thermopile 252, 254, 256 can provide controller 302 with real-time thermal readings that may indicate the thermal characteristics of one or more components of battery pack 202 (e.g., battery cell 250, battery module 220, sub-pack 210, etc.) and / or represent the thermal characteristics within one or more groups (e.g., groups 320, 322, 324, 326). Thermopile 252, 254, 256 can provide controller 302 with one or more signals indicating one or more real-time thermal readings (e.g., radiative temperature measurements, thermal radiation measurements, temperature measurements, monitored temperature values, sensed temperature values, etc.). In some embodiments, the thermal characteristic readings are aggregated readings (e.g., aggregated thermal readings representing groups 320, 322, 324, 326). In other embodiments, the thermal readings are discrete readings (e.g., thermal readings associated with battery cells 250, battery modules 220, subgroups 210, etc. within battery pack 202). In this regard, sensors 310 and / or thermopile 252, 254, 256 can be configured to measure thermal readings and transmit them to controller 302 to provide thermal readings to the controller individually or in combination, thereby facilitating the detection of potential faults or thermal runaway events.

[0065] For reference Figure 4 The sensor 310 may be or include an infrared grid sensor. In some embodiments, Figure 3 High-speed infrared cameras include Figure 4 An infrared grid sensor is used. System 300 (e.g., controller 302, sensor 310, etc.) can divide the monitored area 312 into one or more zones corresponding to one or more pixels in sensor 310. Sensor 310 can provide real-time zone thermal characteristics (e.g., average thermal readings, individual pixel thermal characteristics, such as radiant heat, thermal radiation, and / or temperature measurements, etc.) for each zone within the monitored area 312. In some embodiments, sensor 310 provides, for example, real-time discrete heat dissipation characteristics associated with discrete portions or components (e.g., battery pack 202 or its components, power connectors, power lines, etc.) within the zones of the monitored area 312.

[0066] In some embodiments, system 300 (e.g., controller 302, sensor 310) can divide the monitored area 312 into one or more zones (e.g., partitions, divisions, layouts, etc.), shown as zones 330, 332, 334, 336, and 338 (e.g., at least). Figure 4(As shown). Sensor 310 can be further configured to individually sense the thermal characteristics within each zone 330-338. In some embodiments, sensor 310 can sense multiple thermal characteristics within each zone 330-338 and / or generate zone thermal readings for each zone 330-338 (e.g., T0 ... Z1 T Z2 T Z3 T Z4 T Z5 ... T Zn The zone thermal readings may include individual thermal characteristic readings, or thermal readings based on each zone 330-338, such as minimum, maximum, average, etc. In some embodiments, zones 330-338 correspond to zones or areas on the thermal readings (e.g., heatmap) of the entire monitored area 312.

[0067] In some embodiments, system 300 (e.g., controller 302) is further configured to determine (e.g., identify, match, etc.) the association between one or more thermopiles and monitored area 312. System 300 (e.g., controller 302) may determine (e.g., identify) the association between thermopiles 252, 254, 265 and zones 330, 332, 334, 336, and 338. For example, controller 302 may determine that thermopiles 252, 254 are located in zone 330, while thermopile 256 is located in zone 338. As discussed above, controller 302 may receive thermal signals from thermopiles 252, 254, 256, for example, to determine the accuracy of zone thermal characteristic readings (e.g., from sensor 310), supplement zone thermal readings (e.g., from sensor 310), provide zone heat dissipation characteristic readings, and / or otherwise provide thermal information related to monitored area 312.

[0068] like Figures 3 to 4 As shown, system 300 further includes one or more nozzles, shown as nozzle 342. System 300 may include a single nozzle 342, for example, positioned at or near sensor 310 (such as at least...). Figure 3 (As shown). Nozzle 342 can selectively release extinguishing agent therefrom, for example, to mitigate or prevent potential malfunctions or thermal runaway events.

[0069] In some embodiments, each of zones 330-338 includes a nozzle 342 (such as at least Figure 4(As shown). In some embodiments, system 300 is similarly divided (e.g., partitioned, segmented, laid out, etc.) into multiple individually controllable segments (parts, blocks, areas, etc.). Nozzles 342 can be individually controlled to release extinguishing agent from them. For example, nozzles 342 in a zone can be selectively controlled such that nozzles 342 in a zone 330-338 (e.g., 330) can be activated, while nozzles 342 in zone 332 can remain inactive. In some embodiments, multiple segments can be activated at the same time or nearly at the same time, or sequentially in response to the same conditions (e.g., a potential fault or thermal runaway event). In some embodiments, each segment of system 300 includes a nozzle 342 associated with a separate zone 330-338. Advantageously, system 300 can be used as an early detection system to detect potential faults or thermal runaway events before they occur based on signals from sensor 310, and to notify the user before the event actually begins to prevent runaway events.

[0070] like Figures 5 to 6 As shown, sensor 310 can be positioned (e.g., coupled, mounted, removably attached, etc.) within the internal portion of battery pack 202. For example, sensor 310 can be positioned at the center of the top wall of packaging housing 204 (e.g., coupled thereto). Sensor 310 can also be positioned at the external portion of the monitored area 512. For example, sensor 310 can be positioned at the external portion of packaging housing 204 (e.g., monitored area 512), such as... Figures 5 to 6 As shown. Sensor 310 can be configured to monitor the thermal characteristics of one or more components (e.g., sub-pack 210, battery module 220, battery cell 250, etc.) within the packaging housing 204, for example, to detect and / or prevent potential malfunctions or thermal runaway events within the battery pack 202. In some embodiments, sensor 310 is located at another portion and / or component of the battery pack 202 (e.g., corner, sidewall, rear wall, inlet, outlet, sub-pack, battery module, etc.).

[0071] Battery pack 202 may include one or more thermopiles (shown as thermopile 252, 254, 256), as discussed above. Thermopile 252, 254, 256 may measure one or more characteristics (e.g., thermal characteristics, such as radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, etc.) of one or more components (e.g., one or more components within the packaging housing 204) within the monitored area 512. For example, thermopile 252 may measure thermal characteristics at battery cell 250, thermopile 254 may measure thermal characteristics at battery module 220, and / or thermopile 256 may measure thermal characteristics at sub-pack 210, etc. In some embodiments, thermopile 252, 254, 256 may measure thermal characteristics associated with individual components of battery pack 202 (e.g., battery cell 250, battery module 220, sub-pack 210, etc.). In other embodiments, thermopile 252, 254, 256 can measure thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, gas emissions, etc.) associated with one or more components of battery pack 202, which can indicate or represent one or more groups (e.g., groups 520, 522, 524, etc., such as at least...). Figure 5 Thermopile 252 can measure the thermal characteristics associated with a group of battery cells 250 (e.g., group 520), thermopile 254 can measure the thermal characteristics associated with one or more battery modules 220 (e.g., group 522), and / or thermopile 256 can measure the thermal characteristics associated with subgroup 210 (e.g., group 524).

[0072] Thermopile 252, 254, and 256 can transmit sensed readings to controller 302. For example, thermopile 252, 254, and 256 can measure and provide real-time thermal characteristic readings to controller 302, which can indicate the thermal characteristics (e.g., radiative heat, thermal radiation, temperature, etc.) of one or more components of battery pack 202 (e.g., battery cell 250, battery module 220, sub-pack 210, etc.). Thermopile 252, 254, and 256 can generate and provide controller 302 with thermal readings for each thermopile 252-256 (e.g., T0 ... TP1 T TP2 T TP3 ... T Zn As noted above, thermal characteristic readings may include individual thermal readings, or thermal readings based on each thermopile 252-256, such as minimum, maximum, average, etc.

[0073] For reference Figure 6 The sensor 310 may be an infrared grid sensor. In other embodiments, the sensor 310 is a high-speed infrared camera. The sensor 310 can sense the real-time thermal characteristics (e.g., T0) of the entire monitored area 512.MA (etc.). At this point, sensor 310 can be configured to measure (and / or generate) a thermal map of the entire monitored area 512. Sensor 310 can be further configured to provide real-time sensor readings (e.g., T) to controller 302. MA (Summarized sensor readings, discrete sensor readings, heatmaps, etc.)

[0074] System 300 (e.g., controller 302, sensor 310, etc.) can divide the monitored area 512 into one or more zones corresponding to one or more pixels in sensor 310. For example, system 300 (e.g., controller 302, sensor 310) can be configured to divide (e.g., partition, segment, layout, etc.) the monitored area 512 into one or more zones, shown as zones 530, 532, 534, 536, and 538 (e.g., at least...). Figure 6 (As shown). Sensor 310 can be further configured to individually sense the thermal characteristics within each zone 530-538. In some embodiments, sensor 310 can sense multiple thermal characteristics within each zone 530-538 and / or generate zone thermal characteristic readings for each zone 530-538 (e.g., T0 ... Z1 T Z2 T Z3 T Z4 T Z5 ... T Zn The zone thermal readings may include individual thermal readings or thermal readings based on each zone 530-538, such as minimum, maximum, average, etc. In some embodiments, zones 530-538 correspond to zones or areas on the thermal readings (e.g., a heatmap) of the entire monitored area 512. Sensor 310 may be further configured (e.g., to controller 302) to provide real-time zone thermal characteristics (e.g., average thermal radiation measurement, individual pixel radiative thermal measurement, etc.) for each zone within the monitored area 512. In some embodiments, sensor 310 provides, for example, real-time heat dissipation readings associated with discrete portions or components within the zones of the monitored area 512 (e.g., subgroup 210 or components thereof, power connectors, cooling channels, output connectors, etc.).

[0075] In some embodiments, system 300 (e.g., controller 302) may be configured to determine (e.g., identify, match, etc.) the association between one or more thermopiles and monitored area 512. System 300 (e.g., controller 302) may determine (e.g., identify) the association between thermopiles 252, 254, 265 and zones 530-538. For example, controller 302 may determine that thermopile 252 is located in zone 330, thermopile 254 is located in zone 536, and thermopile 256 is located in adjacent (e.g., near-side, adjacent, etc.) zone 538. As discussed above, controller 302 may receive thermal signals from thermopiles 252, 254, 256, for example, to determine the accuracy of zone temperature readings (e.g., from sensor 310), supplement zone thermal readings (e.g., from sensor 310), provide dissipative readings of the zone, and / or otherwise provide thermal characteristic information related to monitored area 512.

[0076] like Figures 5 to 6 As depicted, system 300 further includes one or more suppression components configured to selectively release a fire extinguishing agent, for example, thereby mitigating or preventing potential malfunctions or thermal runaway events. Figures 5 to 6 As shown and discussed above, battery system 200 may include system 10, which includes a container for extinguishing agent and an actuator configured to initiate the transfer (e.g., flow) of extinguishing agent from the extinguishing agent container to battery pack 202. In some embodiments, system 10 may provide extinguishing agent to an outlet (e.g., a nozzle) positioned to direct the extinguishing agent to the exterior of packaging housing 204. In other embodiments, system 10 may include an outlet that may deliver extinguishing agent to the interior of battery pack 202 (e.g., inside packaging housing 204, inside housing 212, inside housing 222, etc.), for example, to mitigate or prevent potential failure or thermal runaway events.

[0077] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, system 300 uses only a single sensor 310. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, more than one sensor 310 may be used (e.g., two, three, four, etc.). Furthermore, as... Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5The diagram illustrates thermopile 252, 254, and 256 used in system 300. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, more than three thermopiles (e.g., 10, 25, 50, 75, 100) may be used, and these thermopiles may be positioned and / or arranged in other ways (e.g., uniformly, equidistantly, or staggered around battery pack 202). Sensor 310 and / or thermopile 252, 254, and 256 may communicate wirelessly with controller 302 to provide real-time sensor readings (e.g., thermal characteristics, such as thermal signals related to radiative thermal characteristics, thermal radiation characteristics, temperature characteristics, etc.). In other embodiments, sensor 310 and / or thermopile 252, 254, and 256 are wired and communicatively connected to controller 302 (e.g., via wires). In some embodiments, the wires are coated with a thermally resistive material (e.g., coated, surrounded, encapsulated within a thermally resistive material, etc.) to prevent damage to the wires due to the high temperatures exposed to them.

[0078] Still referencing Figures 3 to 6As discussed above, system 300 can generate one or more temperature distributions for a monitored area (e.g., monitored areas 312, 512), for example, to detect and / or prevent potential faults or thermal runaway events. Sensor 310 can sense (e.g., measure) thermal characteristics associated with the monitored area (e.g., monitored areas 312, 512) and transmit the sensed readings to controller 302 (e.g., wirelessly, via a wired connection, etc.). Thermopile 252256 can sense (e.g., measure) thermal characteristics associated with one or more components in the monitored area (e.g., components of battery pack 202 in monitored areas 312, 512) and transmit the sensed readings to controller 302. Using the sensed readings, controller 302 can generate a regional thermal distribution for the monitored area (e.g., monitored areas 312, 512), for example, a regional thermal distribution for the entire monitored area. In some embodiments, controller 302 is further configured to generate additional thermal distributions. For example, controller 302 may be configured to generate a thermopile distribution that represents the thermal characteristics measured at thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252-256). In some embodiments, the controller may generate a thermopile distribution that may include thermal characteristics measured at thermopile and one or more associated (e.g., adjacent or associated with common components) thermopile (e.g., a thermopile distribution for thermopile 252-256 and / or one or more associated thermopile). In other embodiments, controller 302 may generate zone thermal distributions (e.g., thermal distributions for zones 330-338, 530-538, etc.) and / or group thermal distributions (e.g., thermal distributions for groups 320-326, 520-524, etc.). Each thermal distribution may include individual thermal characteristic readings and / or be based on thermal readings such as minimum, maximum, average, etc.

[0079] Controller 302 can determine whether a potential fault or runaway event exists. For example, controller 302 can determine that a potential fault or thermal runaway event exists when one or more thermal distributions (e.g., area thermal distribution, thermopile distribution, zone thermal distribution, etc., and associated thermal characteristics) exceed one or more threshold thermal conditions. Threshold thermal conditions can be: maximum measured thermal radiation (e.g., at the thermopile, in the zone, etc.); maximum deviation of measured thermal radiation or radiant heat (e.g., at the thermopile, in the zone, etc.); maximum measured temperature (e.g., via an individual pixel, at the thermopile, in the zone, etc.); maximum average temperature across one or more thermal distributions (e.g., pixel, thermopile distribution, zone distribution, monitored area, etc.); the number of thermal distributions (or components thereof) exceeding a threshold for a certain thermal characteristic (e.g., pixel, thermopile, zone, etc.); the rate of increase of one or more thermal characteristics exceeding the threshold (e.g., at the pixel, thermopile, zone, monitored area, etc.); etc., or any combination thereof. When one or more of the threshold thermal conditions are met (e.g., based on readings from sensors 310, thermopile 252-256, combinations thereof, etc.), controller 302 may determine that a potential fault or runaway event exists. In some embodiments, when a certain percentage or predetermined value of the threshold thermal condition is met (e.g., based on readings from sensors 310, thermopile 252-256, etc.), controller 302 may determine that a potential fault or runaway event exists.

[0080] Upon determining the existence of a potential fault or out-of-control event, controller 302 may implement one or more control decisions. For example, controller 302 may be configured to transmit indicators to a device (e.g., a personal computer, user device, emergency device, server, mobile device, distributed computing system, etc.) shown as remote device 350. In embodiments, controller 302 may transmit indicators (e.g., alerts, alarms, messages, warning messages) to remote device 350 indicating that a potential fault or out-of-control event has been detected. In some embodiments, controller 302 may transmit indicators (e.g., instructions, messages, graphs, etc.) to remote device 350 providing instructions on how to resolve the potential fault or out-of-control event. In other embodiments, controller 302 may transmit indicators (e.g., follow-up messages, follow-up instructions, etc.) to remote device 350 including follow-up notifications that the potential fault or out-of-control event no longer exists. In some embodiments, controller 302 may populate one or more interfaces at remote device 350. The interface may include indications or indicators (e.g., alarms, messages, instructions, etc.) that include any suitable information related to a potential malfunction or runaway event.

[0081] In some embodiments, control decisions (e.g., the transmission of warnings, alarms, messages, etc.) include additional information related to a specific potential fault or runaway event that has been detected. For example, controller 302 may determine that a first potential fault exists (e.g., based on a first thermopile reading exceeding a first threshold) and transmit a first message (e.g., a warning of elevated thermal characteristics at the first thermopile); determine that a second potential fault exists (e.g., based on a second thermopile reading exceeding a second threshold) and transmit a second message (e.g., an instruction to initiate a response action to prevent thermal runaway at the second thermopile); determine that a third potential fault exists (e.g., based on a first zone reading exceeding a third threshold) and transmit a third message (e.g., a warning of elevated thermal characteristics at the first zone); determine that a fourth potential fault exists (e.g., based on a second zone reading exceeding a fourth threshold) and transmit a fourth message (e.g., an instruction to initiate a response action to prevent thermal runaway at the second zone); and so on. At this point, controller 302 may be configured to implement various control decisions that may include transmitting warnings, alarms, or instructions specific to the detected potential fault or thermal runaway event.

[0082] In some embodiments, upon determining the presence of a potential fault or runaway event, controller 302 is further configured to transmit control decisions (e.g., signals) to activate one or more components of system 10. For example, controller 302 may be configured to transmit control decisions (e.g., activation signals, response signals, control signals, etc.) to suppression system activator 352. In embodiments, suppression system activator 352 may receive control decisions from controller 302 and activate one or more components of system 10 (e.g., actuator 30). For example, suppression system activator 352 may be configured to activate system 10 (e.g., actuator 30) such that extinguishing agent flows out of extinguishing agent tank 12, through pipe 40, and exits nozzles 42, 342 to extinguish a fault or thermal runaway event in a monitored area (e.g., monitored areas 312, 512).

[0083] As discussed above, in some embodiments, system 10 is divided into one or more segments (e.g., zones, such as at least...). Figure 4(As shown). According to an embodiment, upon determining the presence of a potential fault or runaway event, controller 302 may transmit a control signal to activate selected nozzles (e.g., nozzles 42, 342) in a selected segment of the monitored area 312. For example, controller 302 may detect a potential fault or runaway event in zone 330 based on thermal readings from sensor 310 and / or thermopile 252-256 (e.g., zone thermal readings) (e.g., thermopile thermal characteristic readings indicating the thermal characteristics of one or more components of battery pack 202). Controller 302 may transmit a control decision to suppression system activator 352, which causes suppression system activator 352 to activate system 10 (e.g., actuator 30) to release extinguishing agent from the extinguishing agent segment associated with zone 330 (including from all nozzles 342 in zone 330). In an embodiment, the control decision causes suppression system activator 352 to prevent (e.g., limit, constrain, etc.) the release of extinguishing agent from nozzles 342 in the remaining zones 332-338.

[0084] In some embodiments, controller 302 may detect multiple potential faults or thermal runaway events and provide multiple control decisions to remote device 350 (e.g., alarms, warnings, messages, commands, etc.) and / or suppression system activator 352 (e.g., activation signals, control signals, etc.). In some embodiments, the multiple control decisions are provided at different times; however, in other embodiments, the multiple control signals are provided at the same time or nearly at the same time. In some embodiments, after a first control decision is transmitted to remote device 350 and / or suppression system activator 352, controller 302 may monitor the area, group, or zone of the first potential fault or runaway event (e.g., via sensor 310). In other embodiments, controller 302 may transmit a second control decision (e.g., subsequent, follow-up, etc.) based on the monitoring of the area, group, or zone of the first potential fault or runaway event.

[0085] For example, controller 302 may transmit a first control decision (e.g., an alert) to remote device 350, which provides a warning of a potential fault or thermal runaway event at the first thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252). After transmitting the first control decision, controller 302 may monitor areas, groups, and / or zones associated with the first thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252), for example, via thermal readings from sensor 310 and / or thermopile 252. If the thermal characteristics at the first thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252) decrease below a threshold (e.g., a first threshold, a threshold thermal condition, a predetermined threshold, etc.) such that a potential fault or thermal runaway event is no longer detected, controller 302 may transmit a second control decision (e.g., a follow-up message, etc.) indicating that the potential fault or thermal runaway event is no longer detected. At this point, when controller 302 no longer detects a potential fault or thermal runaway event (e.g., at thermopile 252-256, in zones 330-338, 530-538, etc.), controller 302 may transmit a second control signal to remote device 350 (e.g., a follow-up message, etc.) and / or suppress system activator 352 (e.g., a deactivation signal, a stop signal, etc.). In one embodiment, controller 302 no longer detects a potential fault or thermal runaway event when the threshold thermal condition is no longer met; however, in other embodiments, controller 302 no longer detects a potential fault or thermal runaway event when the thermal characteristics at a region, group, zone, or monitored area and / or component are below a predetermined threshold (e.g., a certain value, a percentage reduction in the threshold thermal condition, etc.). In other embodiments, controller 302 may deactivate system 10 in response to a command from a user (e.g., received from remote device 350).

[0086] In other embodiments, in addition to transmitting control decisions to or as an alternative to remote device 350 and / or suppression system activator 352, controller 302 is further configured to perform one or more safety actions. In some embodiments, controller 302 may shut off a gas valve (e.g., to a zone and / or monitored area), activate a circuit breaker associated with the zone and / or monitored area, etc. It should be understood that controller 302 may perform multiple safety actions, either once or over a period of time, for example, in response to the detection of a potential fault or thermal runaway event.

[0087] Controller diagram Now for reference Figure 7According to an embodiment, controller 302 is shown in more detail. In some embodiments, controller 302 may receive any of the real-time thermal readings (e.g., thermal characteristic data) from sensors 310 and / or thermopile 252-256, for example, to determine whether a potential fault or thermal runaway event has occurred or may occur. In some embodiments, controller 302 may receive thermal readings from sensors 310 and / or thermopile 252-256 during a learning period to determine one or more characteristics of monitored areas 312, 512, as discussed below. In some embodiments, controller 302 may receive characteristics (e.g., layout, predetermined thresholds, threshold values, threshold thermal conditions, etc.) related to monitored areas 312, 512 from a user or operator (e.g., via remote device 350).

[0088] like Figure 7 As shown, according to some embodiments, controller 302 includes a communication interface 726. Communication interface 726 can facilitate communication between controller 302 and one or more external devices or applications. For example, communication interface 726 can communicate with sensor 310 to facilitate the transmission of any user control, monitoring, adjustment, etc., to sensor 310, suppression system activator 208, and / or any other device, system, sensor, input, output, etc. described herein. In embodiments, communication interface 726 can communicate with thermopile 252-256, for example, to facilitate the transmission of thermal characteristic measurements (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature measurements, etc.). Communication interface 726 can also facilitate communication between controller 302 and remote devices, servers, or systems (e.g., remote device 350). In some embodiments, communication interface 726 facilitates communication between controller 302 and one or more external devices (e.g., remote servers, remote devices, removable data storage devices, etc.).

[0089] Communication interface 726 may be or include a wired or wireless communication interface (e.g., jack, antenna, transmitter, receiver, transceiver, terminal block, etc.) for data communication with any of the sensors 310, thermopile 252-256, suppression system activator 352, remote device 350, or other external systems or devices. In various embodiments, communication via communication interface 726 may be direct (e.g., field wired or wireless communication) or via a communication network (e.g., WAN, Internet, cellular network, etc.). For example, communication interface 726 may include an Ethernet card and ports for sending and receiving data via an Ethernet-based communication link or network. In another example, communication interface 726 may include a Wi-Fi transceiver for communication via a wireless communication network. In yet another example, communication interface 726 may include a cellular or mobile phone communication transceiver.

[0090] Still referencingFigure 7 According to some embodiments, controller 302 is shown to include processing circuitry 303, which includes processor 304 and memory 306. Processing circuitry 303 may be communicatively connected to communication interface 726, such that processing circuitry 303 and its various components (e.g., processor 304, memory 306, etc.) can send and receive data via communication interface 726. Processor 304 may be implemented as a general-purpose processor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, or other suitable electronic processing components.

[0091] Memory 306 (e.g., memory, memory cell, storage device, etc.) may include one or more means (e.g., RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code for performing or facilitating the various processes, layers, and modules described herein. Memory 306 may be or contain volatile or non-volatile memory. Memory 306 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described herein. According to some embodiments, memory 306 is communicatively connected to processor 304 via processing circuitry 303 and includes computer code for performing (e.g., by processing circuitry 303 and / or processor 304) one or more processes described herein.

[0092] Still referencing Figure 7 The memory 306 is shown as including a fault detector 714. According to embodiments, the fault detector 714 may receive one or more signals and / or data (e.g., thermal signals, thermal data) from, for example, sensors 310 and / or thermopile 252-256 (e.g., via communication interface 726). The fault detector 714 may be further configured to determine the presence of a fault or hazardous condition (e.g., fire, potential fire, etc.) in a potential fault or thermal runaway event based on the thermal signal. In some embodiments, the fault detector 714 may determine whether a fault or thermal runaway event is imminent, possible, and / or exists, for example, based on the presence of one or more threshold thermal conditions. For example, if a threshold thermal condition (e.g., maximum radiant heat or thermal radiation, average radiant heat or thermal radiation condition above a threshold, etc.) exists, the fault detector 714 may determine that a fault or thermal runaway event exists, as discussed above. In some embodiments, the fault detector 714 determines that a potential fault or thermal runaway event exists when a certain percentage (e.g., 50%, 60%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, etc.) or a predetermined value of the threshold thermal condition is met.

[0093] As noted above, threshold thermal conditions can be: maximum measured thermal radiation (e.g., at the thermopile, within the zone, etc.); maximum deviation of measured thermal radiation or radiant heat (e.g., at the thermopile, within the zone, etc.); maximum measured temperature (e.g., via a single pixel, at the thermopile, within the zone, etc.); maximum average temperature across one or more thermal distributions (e.g., pixels, thermopile distributions, zone distributions, monitored areas, etc.); the number of thermal distributions (or components thereof) exceeding a threshold for a certain thermal characteristic (e.g., pixels, thermopiles, zones, etc.); the rate of increase of one or more thermal characteristics exceeding a threshold (e.g., at pixels, thermopiles, zones, monitored areas, etc.); etc., or any combination thereof. When one or more of the threshold thermal conditions are met (e.g., based on readings from sensors 310, thermopiles 252-256, etc.), controller 302 can determine that a potential fault or runaway event exists. Threshold thermal conditions can be threshold calorific values, threshold average calorific values ​​over a period of time, abnormal calorific value sequences, calorific values ​​that are consistently above average temperature values, etc. In some embodiments, fault detector 714 receives threshold thermal conditions from users, operators, service providers, device manufacturers, service providers, etc., for example, via remote device 350 (e.g., via communication interface 726).

[0094] In some embodiments, fault detector 714 learns threshold thermal conditions (e.g., based on thermal signals, thermal data, etc. received via sensors 310, thermopile 252-256, etc.) during a learning period. In some embodiments, the threshold thermal conditions are based on learned characteristics. For example, in response to a detected potential fault or thermal runaway event, fault detector 714 may be configured to generate and store a threshold condition distribution (e.g., based on and / or including thermal signals received from sensors 310 and / or thermopile 252-256 during the detected potential fault). In embodiments, fault detector 714 may determine the presence of a subsequent potential fault or thermal runaway event based on a comparison of a real-time thermal signal (e.g., from sensors 310 and / or thermopile 252-256) with the thermal signal of the threshold condition distribution. In some embodiments, a subsequent potential fault is determined to exist based on a real-time thermal signal exceeding the thermal signal of the threshold condition distribution. In other embodiments, a subsequent potential fault is determined to exist based on a real-time thermal signal exceeding a distribution provided (e.g., via remote device 350) or a distribution hard-coded into controller 302. If a potential fault or thermal runaway event is detected during subsequent events, a second threshold condition distribution can be generated and saved. At this point, the fault detector 714 can be configured to generate and / or save multiple threshold condition distributions over time (e.g., during a learning period), which can be used to evaluate subsequent events for potential faults and / or provide additional threshold condition distributions.

[0095] likeFigure 7 As shown, the fault detector 714 includes a heat distribution manager 716. In an embodiment, the heat distribution manager 716 can associate one or more signals or data (e.g., thermal signals, thermal data) from, for example, thermopile 252-256 with one or more thermopiles in a monitored area. For example, the heat distribution manager 716 can be configured to receive one or more thermal signals from and / or associate the one or more thermal signals with one or more thermopile 252-256 in monitored areas 312 and / or 512. The thermal signals can indicate thermal characteristics (e.g., radiative heat, thermal radiation, infrared thermal radiation, temperature gradient, etc.) at thermopile 252-256, which can indicate thermal characteristic information related to one or more components (e.g., battery cell 250, battery module 220, sub-group 210, entire battery pack 202, etc.) within monitored areas 312, 512.

[0096] In some embodiments, the heat distribution manager 716 is also configured to identify one or more thermopiles in the monitored areas 312, 512, which can be used to determine one or more heat distributions indicating and / or representing components in the monitored areas 312, 512. For example, the heat distribution manager 716 can identify one or more thermopiles within the monitored areas 312, 512, for example, based on user input (e.g., component configuration, component layout, etc.), hard-coded rules or layouts, learned thermal readings or configuration data, or one or more inputs including monitored area layout, component configuration, etc. In some embodiments, the heat distribution manager 716 can determine (e.g., identify, etc.) one or more associations between one or more thermopiles in the monitored areas 312, 512. For example, the heat distribution manager 716 can determine the spacing (e.g., uniform, non-uniform, staggered, etc.) between thermopiles (and / or one or more other components) in the monitored areas 312, 512, component associations, thermopile amplitude, etc. At this point, the heat distribution manager 716 can be configured to determine the layout (e.g., configuration, map, distribution, etc.) of one or more thermopiles in the monitored areas 312, 512, which can be used to analyze thermal readings from one or more thermopiles (e.g., selected group, all of the thermopiles, etc.) to detect potential faults or thermal runaway events.

[0097] In other embodiments, the heat distribution manager 716 is further configured to divide the monitored areas 312, 512 into one or more groups. For example, the heat distribution manager 716 may be configured to divide the monitored areas 312, 512 into one or more groups, which include one or more thermopiles (e.g., thermopile 252 in groups 320, 520; thermopile 254 in groups 322, 522; thermopile 256 in groups 324, 326, 524; etc.). In this respect, the heat distribution manager 716 may be configured to associate one or more groups (e.g., groups 320-326, groups 520-526, etc.) with one or more thermopiles (e.g., thermopile 252-256), which may indicate and / or represent the temperature characteristics of one or more components (e.g., battery cell 250, battery module 220, subgroup 210, etc.) in the monitored areas 312, 512. In some embodiments, the heat distribution manager 716 further divides the monitored areas 312, 512 based on the layout of the monitored areas 312, 512, the location of the thermopile, and / or components associated with the thermopile (e.g., battery cell 250, battery module 220, subgroup 210, battery pack 202, etc.). In other embodiments, the heat distribution manager 716 identifies the thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252-256) based on one or more previous thermal readings at the thermopile, the existing heat distribution associated with the thermopile, and / or additional thermal or other configuration information.

[0098] In some embodiments, the thermal distribution manager 716 may receive thermal signals from one or more thermopiles (e.g., thermopiles 252-256) during a learning period. The learning period may allow the thermal distribution manager 716 to determine characteristics and / or prototype conditions for monitored areas 312, 512 (including one or more thermopiles therein). For example, in some embodiments, a thermopile may be associated with a battery cell 250 near the top wall of battery pack 202 and / or the charging port of battery pack 202. In some embodiments, the learning period facilitates the thermal distribution manager 716 learning the configured thermal characteristics (e.g., charging) for battery pack 202 and / or thermopiles. For example, the learning period may facilitate learning specific maximum thermal radiation or radiant heat, maximum temperature, and / or other configured thermal characteristics (e.g., non-charging, discharging, etc.) associated with battery pack 202 (e.g., thermopiles). Furthermore, the learning period may facilitate learning average time or acceptable peak thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, temperature, etc.) for thermopiles. In embodiments, learning configuration or applying specific thermal characteristics or other configuration-related data facilitates the development by the thermal distribution manager 716 of the layout of thermopile 252-256 (e.g., within battery module 220, subgroup 210, battery pack 202, monitored areas 312, 512, etc.) which provides a thermal distribution indicative of characteristic (e.g., normal), average, and / or anomalous conditions of battery pack 202. Furthermore, the learning period can facilitate the thermal distribution manager 716 in determining whether one or more characteristics associated with thermopile 252-256 are characteristic (e.g., normal), average, or anomalous, for example, to minimize the detection of potential faults or thermal runaway events (e.g., errors, etc.).

[0099] In some embodiments, the heat distribution manager 716 continuously monitors the thermal signals of the monitored areas 312, 512 and adjusts the thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252-256) for measuring one or more thermal distributions (e.g., the thermal distribution of battery pack 202, etc.) based on changes in the thermal signals (e.g., from thermopile 252-256). For example, the heat distribution manager 716 may receive thermal signals from the monitored area 312 (e.g., thermopile 252) indicating that battery pack 202 is leaking and charging time is longer than usual (e.g., consistent and / or increased thermal radiation readings at thermopile 252). The heat distribution manager 716 may identify that battery pack 202 has a charging problem and identify different thermopile 252-256 and / or adjust their layout (e.g., replace the previous thermopile 252, identify thermopile that better represents the thermal distribution of the entire battery pack 202). For example, the heat distribution manager 716 can identify a new set of thermopile 252-256 (e.g., a new thermopile 252) within the battery pack 202, which can explain the increase in heat radiation at the charging port and the decrease in heat radiation at the battery or leakage point. In other embodiments, the heat distribution manager 716 can adjust the layout of the identified thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252-256) for measuring heat distribution (e.g., the heat distribution of the battery pack 202) based on one or more configurations or characteristics (e.g., charging / non-charging configuration, time, date, thermal characteristics of the surrounding area, etc.).

[0100] In some embodiments, the heat distribution manager 716 receives information via user input (e.g., via remote device 350) to identify one or more thermopile 252-256. For example, the user may provide the layout of monitored areas 312, 512, the location of one or more battery packs 202 and / or their components, the heat distribution for one or more battery packs 202, etc., and the heat distribution manager 716 may use this information to identify and / or determine the configuration (e.g., layout, spacing, type, etc.) of one or more thermopile 252-256.

[0101] In an embodiment, a fault detector 714 (e.g., via a thermal distribution manager 716) can detect potential faults or thermal runaway events at one or more locations in the thermopile. For example, when one or more threshold thermal conditions are met at the thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252-256), the fault detector 714 (e.g., via the thermal distribution manager 716) can determine that a potential fault or runaway event exists at one or more locations in the thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252-256). The fault detector 714 can transmit information related to the detected potential fault or runaway event to a control decision generator, which can transmit one or more control decisions to external devices or applications (e.g., remote device 350, suppression system activator 352, etc.), as discussed below.

[0102] like Figure 7 As shown, the fault detector 714 also includes a zone manager 718. In an embodiment, the zone manager 718 can associate one or more signals or data (e.g., thermal signals, thermal data) from, for example, sensor 310 with one or more zones in the monitored area. For example, the zone manager 718 can be configured to receive one or more thermal signals from one or more zones 330-338 in monitored area 312 and / or one or more zones 530-538 in monitored area 512 and / or associate the one or more thermal signals with the one or more zones. In an embodiment, the zone manager 718 is also configured to associate one or more thermal signals with one or more components within zones 330-338 and 530-538. The temperature signals can indicate the thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat, thermal radiation, infrared thermal radiation, temperature gradient, etc.) of zones 330-338 and 530-538, which can indicate thermal information related to one or more components (e.g., battery cell 250, battery module 220, subgroup 210, etc.) within monitored areas 312 and 512.

[0103] In some embodiments, the zone manager 718 is also configured to create or divide zones within monitored areas 312, 512, which can be used to determine one or more heat distributions within monitored areas 312, 512. For example, the zone manager 718 may divide monitored areas 312, 512 into one or more zones (e.g., zones 330-338 and 530-538, respectively) based on: the layout of monitored areas 312, 512, the location and type of components within monitored areas 312, 512 (e.g., battery pack 202, the location of battery pack 202, battery cell 250, the type and configuration of battery cell 250, etc.) and / or the application or use of one or more components within monitored areas 312, 512 (e.g., storage of battery pack 202, charging of battery pack 202, charging of battery cells, etc.). In some embodiments, the zone manager 718 may divide zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538) based on: the location of one or more nozzles in the monitored areas 312, 512, one or more previous thermal characteristic measurements of components in the monitored areas 312, 512, and / or any other suitable information relating to the monitored areas 312, 512, and / or components therein.

[0104] In some embodiments, the zone manager 718 divides the monitored areas 312, 512 into zones based on thermal signals received during a learning period (e.g., from sensors 310, thermopile 252-256, etc.). The learning period allows the zone manager 718 to determine the characteristics and / or prototype conditions of the monitored areas 312, 512 that include one or more components housed therein (e.g., battery pack 202, battery cell 250). For example, in some embodiments, the monitored area 312 includes the battery pack 202, which may be placed in the monitored area 312 for storage, charging, and / or discharging. In some embodiments, the learning period facilitates the zone manager 718 learning the thermal conditions for various configurations of the battery pack 202 (e.g., charging, etc.). For example, the learning period may facilitate learning specific maximum thermal characteristics (e.g., radiant heat or thermal radiation, maximum temperature, and / or other configuration temperatures for non-charging or discharging, etc.) associated with the battery pack 202 and / or surrounding components. Furthermore, the learning period can facilitate learning the average time or acceptable peak thermal conditions for battery pack 202 and / or components therein (e.g., battery cell 250, etc.). In embodiments, learning configuration or applying specific thermal conditions or other configuration-related data facilitates the zone manager 718 to automatically develop the layout of zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538) that provides thermal distribution indicating characteristic (e.g., normal), average, and / or abnormal conditions of monitored areas 312, 512 and / or components therein (e.g., battery pack 202, battery cell 250, etc.). Additionally, the learning period can facilitate the zone manager 718 to determine whether one or more characteristics associated with a zone (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538) are characteristic (e.g., normal), average, or abnormal, for example, to minimize the detection of potential faults or thermal runaway events (e.g., errors, etc.).

[0105] In some embodiments, the zone manager 718 continuously monitors the thermal signals of monitored areas 312, 512 and adjusts zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538) based on changes in the thermal signals (e.g., from sensors 310, thermopile 252-256, etc.). For example, the zone manager 718 may receive thermal signals from monitored area 312 (e.g., zone 330) indicating that battery pack 202 has been removed from zone 330 or from storage (e.g., via consistent and / or decreasing temperature readings in zone 330). The zone manager 718 may identify that battery pack 202 has been removed from zone 330 and adjust the layout of zones 330-338. For example, the zone manager 718 may reassign maximum permissible thermal conditions (e.g., measured maximum thermal radiation, maximum temperature conditions, etc.) from zones 332-338 to zone 330. In other embodiments, the zone manager 718 may adjust the layout of zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538) based on one or more configurations or characteristics (e.g., charging / non-charging configuration, time, date, thermal characteristics of the surrounding area, etc.).

[0106] In other embodiments, the zone manager 718 receives information via user input (e.g., via remote device 350) to identify and / or divide one or more zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538). For example, the user may provide the layout of the monitored areas 312, 512, the location of one or more battery packs 202 and / or their components (e.g., battery cells 250, battery modules 220, subgroups 210, etc.), the heat distribution for one or more battery packs 202, etc., and the zone manager 718 may use this information to identify and / or create one or more zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538) within the monitored areas 312, 512.

[0107] In an embodiment, fault detector 714 (e.g., via zone manager 718) can detect potential faults or thermal runaway events at one or more locations in zones identified and / or generated by zone manager 718. For example, when one or more threshold thermal conditions are met at zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538), fault detector 714 (e.g., via zone manager 718) can determine that a potential fault or runaway event exists at one or more locations in zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538). Fault detector 714 can transmit information related to the detected potential fault or thermal runaway event to a control decision generator, which can transmit one or more control decisions to external devices or applications (e.g., remote device 350, suppression system activator 352, etc.), as discussed below.

[0108] In some embodiments, fault detector 714 (e.g., via zone manager 718, heat distribution manager 716, etc.) may perform additional identification, verification, and / or confirmation functions related to potential faults or thermal runaway events. For example, in some embodiments, fault detector 714 (e.g., via zone manager 718) may detect potential faults or thermal runaway events at zones (e.g., zones 330, 530, etc.) identified and / or generated by zone manager 718. In response to detecting a potential fault or thermal runaway event at a zone (e.g., zone 330, 530, etc.), fault detector 714 may be further configured to identify (e.g., via heat distribution manager 716) one or more thermopiles (e.g., thermopile 252) within the zone (e.g., zone 330, 530). Fault detector 714 may be further configured to receive thermal signals (e.g., via heat distribution manager 716) from one or more thermopiles (e.g., thermopile 252) within the identified zone. In embodiments, thermal signals from thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252) are compared with threshold conditions to determine (e.g., confirm, deny, etc.) whether a potential fault or thermal runaway event has been detected at the thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252) and within a zone (e.g., zone 330, 530). In some embodiments, fault detector 714 (e.g., thermal distribution manager 716) can receive thermal signals from multiple thermopiles within identified zones (e.g., zones 330, 530), which can be compared with threshold conditions to determine whether a potential thermal runaway event exists at a particular thermopile. At this point, fault detector 714 (e.g., via thermal distribution manager 716) can be configured to receive thermal signals from multiple thermopiles, for example, to isolate discrete components that may experience a potential fault or thermal runaway event. In some other embodiments, the fault detector 714 may receive thermal signals (e.g., from sensor 310, thermopile 252-256, etc.), and the heat distribution manager 716 and / or zone manager 718 may perform additional diagnostic, detection, and / or verification functions individually or in any suitable combination.

[0109] like Figure 7 As shown, memory 306 also includes a control decision generator 720. Control decision generator 720 can be configured to receive information (e.g., from fault detector 714) related to a detected potential fault or thermal runaway event. This can include information related to thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252-256) and / or zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538) associated with the detected potential fault or runaway event. The information may also include specific conditions associated with the potential fault or runaway event (e.g., component configuration, temperature readings, etc.).

[0110] In embodiments, the control decision generator 720 may generate one or more control decisions based on information related to a potential fault or thermal runaway event, and / or transmit the control decisions to the remote device 350, the suppression system activator 352, and / or another device or system. In some embodiments, the control decision generator 720 may determine an appropriate control decision (e.g., based on information related to a potential fault or thermal runaway event). As noted above, control decisions may include transmitting indicators (e.g., warnings, alarms, messages, instructions, follow-up messages, updates, etc.), transmitting control signals (e.g., activation signals, response signals, deactivation signals, etc.), initiating automated actions (e.g., automatically implementing safety measures, etc.), and / or any combination thereof. The control decision generator 720 may be configured to generate and / or transmit multiple control decisions, for example, sequentially or simultaneously. In some embodiments, the control decision generator 720 may generate and / or transmit control decisions in real time, for example, to allow the remote device 350 to monitor real-time thermal information, performance data and / or events, alarms and / or warning data.

[0111] It should also be understood that although the controller 302 is described herein as receiving thermal readings from sensors 310 and / or thermopile 252-256, the controller 302 may also be communicatively connected to and / or receive real-time readings or data (e.g., thermal readings) from the remote device 350. It should also be understood that in some embodiments, characteristic values, threshold thermal conditions, thermal readings, etc., may be transmitted to a remote database, remote server, for example, for storage. It should also be understood that although a single learning period is discussed herein, in some embodiments, the learning period may be repeated to redetermine characteristics for a particular application. In some embodiments, multiple learning periods may be performed, and characteristic values ​​for each learning period may be locally stored in the controller 302 (e.g., fault detector 714) and / or on the remote device 350. In some embodiments, the sensors 310 and / or the remote device 350 may perform any and / or all of the operations described herein, such as the operation or function of the controller 302.

[0112] Processes used to implement thermal runaway detection and warning systems Now for reference Figure 8 According to some embodiments, a process 800 for operating a fire detection, prevention, mitigation, and / or suppression system is illustrated. In embodiments, process 800 is performed by one or more of the aforementioned systems, such as system 10 and / or system 300. In some embodiments, process 800 is performed by a controller (e.g., controller 302) and / or any various components of the controller of the fire detection and suppression system.

[0113] According to an embodiment, process 800 is shown to include identifying one or more thermopiles in a monitored area (step 802). One or more thermopiles (e.g., thermopile 252-256) may be associated with one or more components of a battery pack (e.g., battery pack 202, sub-pack 210, battery module 220, battery cell 250) or another suitable component within the monitored area. In embodiments, one or more thermopiles may be identified, for example, based on user input (e.g., component configuration, component layout, etc.), hard-coded rules or layouts, etc. In some embodiments, one or more thermopiles may be identified via a controller or a component thereof (e.g., thermal distribution manager 716 of controller 302). In some embodiments, one or more thermopiles may be identified based on thermal signals or data associated with the thermopiles (e.g., received from thermopile 252-256). For example, thermopiles may be identified based on thermal signals during a learning period. In some embodiments, thermopile identification is based on the layout of the monitored area (e.g., connections within monitored areas 312, 512, hard-coded rules, etc.), components within the monitored area, and / or user input (e.g., via remote device 350). In some embodiments, thermopile identification is in response to receiving commands, selections, etc. (e.g., commands provided by a user or operator, e.g., via remote device 350).

[0114] According to some embodiments, process 800 includes receiving a thermal signal from one or more thermopiles (step 804). In embodiments, the thermal signal indicates thermal characteristics at one or more thermopiles (e.g., thermopile 252-256). Thermal measurements (e.g., characteristics) may include measurements related to radiant heat, thermal radiation, infrared thermal radiation, temperature gradient, current temperature, or any other suitable thermal measurement. In some embodiments, the thermal signal is received at one or more components of a controller (e.g., controller 302, heat distribution manager 716, etc.). In some embodiments, the monitored area is monitored area 312. In other embodiments, the monitored area is monitored area 512.

[0115] In some embodiments, process 800 includes generating a thermal distribution of a thermal signal over a monitored area. In embodiments, a controller or a component thereof (e.g., controller 302) may generate a thermal distribution representing the thermal characteristics (e.g., from the thermal signal) of one or more components of the monitored area (e.g., via association with the thermal signal). In some embodiments, process 800 includes generating multiple thermal distributions, such as multiple thermopile distributions (e.g., thermal distribution of measurements at thermopile 252-256) and / or a thermal distribution of the entire monitored area (e.g., monitored areas 312, 512).

[0116] According to some embodiments, process 800 includes detecting a potential thermal runaway event based on a thermal signal (step 806). In some embodiments, a potential thermal runaway event is or includes a potential fault, error, or hazardous condition (e.g., fire, potential fire, etc.). In other embodiments, a potential thermal runaway event is an event at one or more thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252-256). According to embodiments, a controller or a component thereof (e.g., controller 302, fault detector 714) can detect a potential thermal runaway event, for example, by comparing a thermal signal to a threshold thermal condition. In some embodiments, a threshold thermal condition is (e.g., for a single component, thermopile, etc.) the maximum measured thermal radiation, the maximum deviation of measured thermal radiation or radiant heat, the maximum measured temperature, the maximum average temperature across one or more components (e.g., at one or more thermopiles, etc.), the rate of temperature increase of a component (e.g., a thermopile), the number of components exceeding a threshold for a certain thermal characteristic, and / or any other suitable threshold temperature measurement.

[0117] According to some embodiments, process 800 includes initiating a control decision (step 808) in response to detecting a potential thermal runaway event. In embodiments, a controller or a component thereof (e.g., controller 302) may generate one or more control decisions in response to detecting a potential thermal runaway event. Initiating a control decision may include transmitting the control decision to a remote device (e.g., remote device 350), such as transmitting an indicator (e.g., warning, alarm, message, instruction, follow-up message, update, etc.) associated with the potential thermal runaway event. In other embodiments, initiating a control decision includes transmitting the control decision to a system or activator (e.g., system 10, suppression system activator), such as transmitting control signals (e.g., activation signals, response signals, deactivation signals, etc.) to initiate one or more actions to respond to or resolve the potential thermal runaway event. In other embodiments, initiating a control decision includes initiating automated actions (e.g., automatically implementing safety measures, etc.) and / or any combination thereof.

[0118] Now for reference Figure 9 According to some embodiments, a process 900 for operating a fire detection, prevention, mitigation, and / or suppression system is illustrated. In embodiments, process 900 is performed by one or more of the aforementioned systems, such as system 10 and / or system 300. In some embodiments, process 900 is performed by a controller (e.g., controller 302) and / or any various components of the controller of the fire detection and suppression system.

[0119] According to an embodiment, process 900 is shown to include identifying one or more zones within a monitored area (step 902). One or more zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538) may include one or more components (e.g., battery pack 202, nozzle 342, battery cell 250, etc.) within the monitored area (e.g., monitored areas 312, 512). One or more zones may be identified via a controller or a component thereof (e.g., zone manager 718 of controller 302). In some embodiments, one or more zones are identified based on thermal signals or data (e.g., received from sensor 310, thermopile 252, 256, etc.). For example, zones may be identified based on thermal signals during a learning period. In some embodiments, zones are identified based on the layout of the monitored area (e.g., monitored areas 312, 512, etc.), components within the monitored area, and / or user input (e.g., via remote device 350). In other embodiments, the controller or its components (e.g., controller 302, zone manager 718) can create or divide a monitored area (e.g., monitored areas 312, 512) into one or more zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538, respectively). In some embodiments, zones are identified in response to receiving commands, selections, etc. (e.g., commands provided by a user or operator, for example, via remote device 350).

[0120] According to some embodiments, process 900 includes receiving thermal signals from a sensor for one or more identified zones (step 904). In some embodiments, process 900 further includes receiving thermal signals from one or more thermopile (e.g., thermopile 252-256). In embodiments, the thermal signals indicate thermal characteristics at one or more zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538). In some embodiments, the sensor is sensor 310 (e.g., a high-speed infrared camera, a grid sensor, etc.). In some embodiments, the thermal signals are received at one or more components of a controller (e.g., controller 302, zone manager 718, etc.). In some embodiments, the monitored area is monitored area 312. In other embodiments, the monitored area is monitored area 512.

[0121] In some embodiments, process 900 includes generating a thermal distribution of a thermal signal over a monitored area. In embodiments, a controller or a component thereof (e.g., controller 302) may generate a thermal distribution representing the thermal characteristics (e.g., from the thermal signal) of one or more components of the monitored area (e.g., via association with the thermal signal). In some embodiments, process 900 includes generating multiple thermal distributions, such as multiple zone thermal distributions (e.g., thermal distributions of zones 330-338, 530-538), multiple thermopile distributions (e.g., distributions of thermal characteristics measured at thermopile 252-256), and / or a thermal distribution of the entire monitored area (e.g., monitored areas 312, 512).

[0122] According to some embodiments, process 900 includes detecting a potential thermal runaway event based on a thermal signal (step 906). In some embodiments, a potential thermal runaway event is or includes a potential fault, error, or hazardous condition (e.g., fire, potential fire, etc.). In other embodiments, a potential thermal runaway event is an event at one or more zones (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538). According to embodiments, a controller or a component thereof (e.g., controller 302, fault detector 714) can detect a potential thermal runaway event, for example, by comparing a thermal signal to a threshold thermal condition. In some embodiments, the threshold thermal condition is (e.g., for a single zone or component thereof, such as a battery pack, battery cell, etc.) the maximum measured thermal radiation, the maximum deviation of the measured thermal radiation, the maximum measured temperature, the maximum average value of the thermal characteristics across one or more zones or components thereof (e.g., zones 330-338, zones 530-538, etc.), the rate of increase of the thermal characteristics within a zone or component thereof (e.g., for a single zone or component thereof, such as a battery pack, battery cell, etc.), the number threshold of components exceeding a certain thermal characteristic threshold, and / or any other suitable threshold thermal characteristic measurement, as discussed above.

[0123] According to some embodiments, process 900 includes initiating a control decision (step 908) in response to detecting a potential thermal runaway event. In embodiments, a controller or a component thereof (e.g., controller 302) may generate one or more control decisions in response to detecting a potential thermal runaway event. Initiating a control decision may include transmitting the control decision to a remote device (e.g., remote device 350), such as transmitting an indicator (e.g., warning, alarm, message, instruction, follow-up message, update, etc.) associated with the potential thermal runaway event. In other embodiments, initiating a control decision includes transmitting the control decision to a system or activator (e.g., system 10, suppression system activator), such as transmitting control signals (e.g., activation signals, response signals, deactivation signals, etc.) to initiate one or more actions to respond to or resolve the potential thermal runaway event. In other embodiments, initiating a control decision includes initiating automated actions (e.g., automatically implementing safety measures, etc.) and / or any combination thereof.

[0124] Configuration of the Implementation Example As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with common and accepted usage by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Those skilled in the art who have examined this disclosure will understand that these terms are intended to allow for description of certain features described and claimed, without limiting the scope of those features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Therefore, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that non-substantial or irrelevant modifications or alterations to the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of this disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

[0125] It should be noted that the terms “exemplary” and variations thereof used herein to describe various embodiments are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible instances, representations and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to imply that such embodiments must be particular or best instances).

[0126] As used herein, the term "coupled" means that two components are directly or indirectly joined to each other. Such a joint can be fixed (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such a joint can be achieved by: two components being directly coupled to each other; two components being coupled to each other using a separate intermediate component and any other intermediate component connected to each other; or two components being coupled to each other using an intermediate component integrally formed with one of the two components as a single unit. Such components can be mechanically, electrically, and / or fluidly coupled.

[0127] As used herein, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) such that when used to connect a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Unless otherwise specifically stated, connective language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z" is understood to convey that the elements can be X, Y, Z; X and Y; X and Z; Y and Z; or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Therefore, unless otherwise stated, such connective language is generally not intended to imply that some embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present.

[0128] References to the position of elements (e.g., "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc.) herein are used only to describe the orientation of the various elements in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, according to other embodiments, the orientation of the various elements may differ, and such variations are intended to be covered by this disclosure.

[0129] Hardware and data processing components for implementing the various processes, operations, illustrative logic, logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or executed using a general-purpose single-chip or multi-chip processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, specific processes and methods may be executed by a specific circuit system for a given function. Memory (e.g., memory, memory cell, storage device, etc.) may include one or more means (e.g., RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage device, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code to perform or facilitate the various processes, layers, and modules described in this disclosure. The memory may be or include volatile or non-volatile memory, and may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described herein. According to embodiments, the memory is communicatively connected to a processor via processing circuitry and includes computer code for (e.g., by the processing circuitry and / or the processor) performing one or more of the processes described herein.

[0130] This disclosure contemplates methods, systems, and program products on any machine-readable medium for performing various operations. Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented using existing computer processors, or by special-purpose computer processors for suitable systems, combined for this or another purpose, or by hardwired systems. Embodiments within the scope of this disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or storing machine-executable instructions or data structures. Such machine-readable media can be any available medium accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or other machine having a processor. By way of example, such machine-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or other optical disk storage devices, magnetic disk storage devices, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or other machine having a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that cause a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or special-purpose processing machine to perform a function or group of functions.

[0131] Although the accompanying drawings and specifications may illustrate a specific order of method steps, such order may differ from the order depicted and described, unless otherwise stated above. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated above, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously. Such variations may depend on, for example, the chosen software and hardware system and may depend on the designer's choice. All such variations are within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, software implementations of the described methods can be implemented using standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic for implementing various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

[0132] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the fire suppression systems shown in the various embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and location of various elements, parameter values, installation arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.). For example, the positions of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or locations may be altered or varied. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made to the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0133] Furthermore, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated into or used with any other embodiment disclosed herein. For example, in at least Figures 3 to 7The system 300 of the embodiments described herein can be incorporated into at least Figure 1 In system 10 of the embodiments described herein. Although only one example of an element from one embodiment that may be incorporated into or utilized in another embodiment has been described above, it should be understood that other elements of various embodiments may be incorporated into or used with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A thermal runaway detection and prevention system, comprising: One or more thermopiles, the one or more thermopiles being configured to measure one or more thermal properties of the monitored area; as well as A controller having one or more processors and a memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations, including: Identify the one or more thermopiles in the monitored area; Receive thermal signals related to one or more measured thermal properties of the monitored area from the one or more thermopiles; Detecting potential thermal runaway events based on the aforementioned thermal signals; and A control decision is initiated in response to the detection of the potential thermal runaway event.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the monitored area comprises a plurality of battery cells located within the battery module.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the monitored area comprises a plurality of battery modules located within a battery subgroup.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the monitored area comprises a plurality of battery sub-groups located within the battery pack.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein one or more of the measured thermal characteristics are associated with at least one of: radiant heat associated with the monitored area, thermal radiation associated with the monitored area, or temperature associated with the monitored area.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the thermal signal is received in real time from the one or more thermopile.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein detecting the potential thermal runaway event comprises determining that the average value of the one or more measured thermal properties over a period of time exceeds a predetermined threshold average value of the one or more thermal properties over the period of time.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein detecting the potential thermal runaway event comprises determining that a predetermined number of the one or more measured thermal properties exceed a predetermined threshold for the thermal property.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein detecting the potential thermal runaway event comprises determining that the rate of change of the one or more measured thermal properties over a period of time exceeds a predetermined threshold rate of change for the one or more thermal properties over the period of time.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein initiating the control decision comprises at least one of: activating a nozzle associated with the monitored area to deliver extinguishing agent to at least one component of the monitored area; or providing an instruction to a computing device, the instruction comprising a warning message and instructions to mitigate the potential thermal runaway event.

11. A thermal runaway detection and prevention system, comprising: An infrared sensor, configured to measure one or more thermal characteristics of the monitored area; as well as A controller having one or more processors and a memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations, including: Identify one or more zones within the monitored area; The infrared sensor receives thermal signals related to one or more measured thermal characteristics, wherein the one or more measured thermal characteristics are related to one or more identified zones; Detecting potential thermal runaway events based on the aforementioned thermal signals; and A control decision is initiated in response to the detection of the potential thermal runaway event.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the infrared sensor is capable of measuring one or more thermal characteristics within a predefined frequency range.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the monitored area comprises a plurality of battery cells located within a battery module.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the monitored area includes a battery pack located within a storage facility.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein one or more of the measured thermal characteristics are associated with at least one of: radiant heat associated with the monitored area, thermal radiation associated with the monitored area, or temperature associated with the monitored area.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein the thermal signal is received from the infrared sensor in real time.

17. A method for detecting and mitigating potential thermal runaway events, comprising: The controller identifies one or more thermopile units within the monitored area. Receive thermal signals related to one or more measured thermal characteristics of the monitored area from the one or more thermopiles in the monitored area; The potential thermal runaway event is detected via the controller and based on the thermal signal; as well as In response to the detection of the potential thermal runaway event, a control decision is initiated via the controller.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein detecting the potential thermal runaway event comprises determining that the average value of the one or more measured thermal properties over a period of time exceeds a predetermined threshold average value of the one or more thermal properties over the period of time.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein detecting the potential thermal runaway event comprises determining that a predetermined number of the one or more measured thermal properties exceed a predetermined threshold for the thermal property.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein initiating the control decision comprises at least one of: activating a nozzle associated with the monitored area to deliver extinguishing agent to at least one component of the monitored area; or providing an instruction to a computing device, the instruction comprising a warning message and instructions to mitigate the potential thermal runaway event.

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