Battery cabinet

Abstract

The double-wall battery charging cabinet may include: an outer cabinet wall; an inner cabinet wall spaced apart from the outer cabinet wall to form a thermally insulated air gap between the inner cabinet wall and the outer cabinet wall, the inner cabinet wall defining an interior volume; and an air convection port disposed through the outer cabinet wall and the inner cabinet wall. The cabinet may also include: a flame arrester disposed inside or near the air convection port; a damper located near the air convection port; a fuse link for holding the damper in the open position, the fuse link having a predetermined melting point at which the damper is released to slide horizontally from the open position to the closed position; and a power outlet disposed within the interior volume.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 467712, filed May 19, 2023, entitled “Battery Cabinet,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The described embodiments generally relate to battery cabinets (e.g., cabinets that can charge and store rechargeable batteries). Background Technology

[0004] Many industries involve battery-powered devices and machinery. These batteries typically include rechargeable batteries such as lithium-ion batteries. Unfortunately, the proliferation of battery-powered devices, including cars, hand tools, drones, and personal mobile devices, has led to an increase in battery-related fires, resulting in property damage and personal injury. However, there are no safety standards or regulations for the storage and charging of these batteries. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a battery cabinet that can safely charge and store rechargeable batteries, especially in situations where multiple battery packs (ranging from a few to dozens) need to be charged and stored.

[0005] To illustrate this need, rechargeable batteries undergo thermal changes during charging. Over time, these rechargeable batteries may experience thermal runaway (or heat dissipation) during charging. This thermal runaway can lead to the accumulation of gases inside the ABS plastic casing of the battery pack. This gas accumulation can cause unsafe battery termination (such as explosions from flames, hot gases, battery acids, and toxic fumes / mist). In some cases, thermal runaway and subsequent battery termination can have a cascading effect—when the cabinet temperature rises sharply, adjacent battery packs may also begin to experience thermal runaway and terminate.

[0006] Conventional cabinets in the current technology suffer from design flaws and are ineffective in handling the safe charging and storage of batteries. Specifically, many EN standard cabinets (such as those conforming to the European safety standard EN 14470-1) are not designed to seal against thermal runaway and battery termination. These cabinets are actually designed to protect their internal contents (such as flammable liquids) from external fire threats. Therefore, EN cabinets use drywall-insulated fire walls—resulting in bulky and immovable structures. Furthermore, to address external fire risks, temperature triggering devices in at least some EN cabinets are located externally or embedded in the insulated wall structure, rather than within the cabinet's internal volume. Consequently, EN cabinets are largely ineffective at safely and effectively accommodating batteries that thermally fail and terminate within the cabinet. In addition, lengthy fire rating requirements complicate the design, leading to labor-intensive manufacturing processes, longer production cycles, and higher costs.

[0007] As previously mentioned, battery termination can occur inside the cabinet during charging or storage. Such terminations are often abrupt and sudden (e.g., typically occurring within seconds to minutes). Therefore, the lengthy fire ratings and reverse design of EN cabinets—intended to protect the cabinet interior from environmental influences—are clearly inadequate for the safe charging and storage of rechargeable batteries. Similarly, the fire suppression systems in some EN cabinets offer little protection against thermal runaway and battery termination within the cabinet, as lithium-ion batteries can continue to burn even with minimal or no external oxygen supply.

[0008] Other cabinets, including standard FM-class cabinets, also cannot safely handle the charging and storage of rechargeable batteries. For example, such cabinets lack internal temperature-based mechanisms, ventilation, triggerable vent shutdowns, etc., to help prevent the aforementioned thermal runaway and battery termination.

[0009] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to solutions to any drawbacks or embodiments that operate only in the aforementioned environments. Rather, this background art merely provides an exemplary technical field, and some embodiments described herein can be implemented. Summary of the Invention

[0010] One aspect of the present invention relates to a dual-wall battery charging cabinet. In some examples, the dual-wall battery charging cabinet may include: an outer cabinet wall; an inner cabinet wall spaced apart from the outer cabinet wall to form an insulating air gap between the inner cabinet wall and the outer cabinet wall, the inner cabinet wall defining an internal volume; an air convection port disposed through the outer cabinet wall and the inner cabinet wall; a flame arrester located inside or near the air convection port; a damper located near the air convection port, the damper being biased to a closed position; a fusible connector for abutting the damper against a biasing member and holding it in an open position, the fusible connector having a predetermined melting point, upon which the damper is released to slide horizontally from the open position to a closed position; and a power outlet disposed within the internal volume.

[0011] In some examples, the double-wall battery charging cabinet may also include one or more spring members to bias the damper toward the closed position. In a specific example, the double-wall battery charging cabinet may also include a barrier disposed near the air convection port, the barrier including an opening area for airflow through the barrier. In these or other examples, the barrier defines a slotted portion, and the damper includes a bracket extending through the slotted portion to engage the fusible connector. In at least one example, the double-wall battery also includes: a door surrounding the internal volume and a corresponding door frame; and at least one expansion seal disposed around the door or the door frame.

[0012] In one or more examples, the air convection port includes an air inlet, and the dual-wall battery further includes an additional air convection port, which includes an air outlet. In some embodiments, the air convection port includes a fan. In some examples, the dual-wall battery charging cabinet also includes feet supporting the dual-wall battery charging cabinet on a surface. In one example, the surface includes a workbench surface.

[0013] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a battery charging cabinet. The battery charging cabinet may include: a reinforcing wall defining an internal volume; a shelf disposed within the internal volume and dividing the internal volume into at least a first portion and a second portion; an air inlet configured to pass through the reinforcing wall for allowing airflow to enter the first portion at a first end of the battery charging cabinet; an air outlet configured to pass through the reinforcing wall for allowing airflow to exit the second portion at a second end of the battery charging cabinet opposite the first end; and a spring-loaded damper located near each of the air inlet and the air outlet, the spring-loaded damper being slidable between an open position and a closed position.

[0014] In these or other examples, the reinforced wall comprises a first wall layer and a second wall layer. In some examples, the battery charging cabinet also includes an air gap between the first and second wall layers, the air gap being approximately 1 inch to approximately 3 inches. In one or more examples, the battery charging cabinet also includes a fusible connector that holds the spring-loaded damper in the open position when the fusible connector is exposed to a temperature below a predetermined temperature within the internal volume. The battery charging cabinet may also include a flame arrester located at least within or near an air inlet. In one example, the battery charging cabinet includes a power outlet disposed in at least one of the first or second portions of the internal volume.

[0015] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a battery cabinet. The battery cabinet may include: an external cabinet wall; an internal cabinet wall, separated from the external cabinet wall to form an insulating air gap between the internal and external cabinet walls; a pair of doors, the internal cabinet wall and the pair of doors enclosing an internal volume within the battery cabinet; a pair of air convection ports, the pair of air convection ports being configured to pass through the external cabinet wall and the internal cabinet wall, the external cabinet wall and the internal cabinet wall being located at opposite cabinet ends and at different heights within the internal volume, wherein at least one of the pair of air convection ports includes a fan; a flame arrester, the flame arrester being located within or adjacent to at least one of the pair of air convection ports; a horizontal sliding damper, the horizontal sliding damper being located near each of the pair of air convection ports, the horizontal sliding damper being biased toward a closed position; a fusible connector for laterally holding the horizontal sliding damper under the bias and in an open position based on the temperature within the internal volume; and a power socket, the power socket being disposed within the internal volume.

[0016] In these or other examples, each of the pair of doors may be double-walled. In some examples, each of the pair of doors includes a flange. In a specific example, a shelf is also included that divides the internal volume into at least a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion are cross-ventilated during operation of the pair of air convection ports. In a specific implementation, the battery cabinet weighs between approximately 150 pounds and approximately 175 pounds. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The invention will be readily understood from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals denote the same structural elements, wherein:

[0018] Figure 1-3 Exemplary environments for battery cabinets according to one or more examples of the present invention are shown respectively;

[0019] Figure 4 A top front perspective view of an exemplary battery cabinet according to one or more examples of the present invention is shown;

[0020] Figure 5 Another top front perspective view of an exemplary battery cabinet according to one or more examples of the present invention is shown;

[0021] Figure 6 A bottom rear perspective view of an exemplary battery cabinet according to one or more examples of the present invention is shown;

[0022] Figure 7-9 Different cross-sectional views of the battery cabinet according to one or more examples of the present invention are shown respectively;

[0023] Figure 10-12 Examples of barrier damper components according to one or more embodiments of the present invention are shown; and

[0024] Figure 13 A close-up view of a portion of an exemplary battery cabinet according to one or more examples of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Reference will now be made in detail to the representative embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to a single preferred embodiment. Rather, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that may be included within the spirit and scope of the embodiments defined by the appended claims.

[0026] The following disclosure relates to a battery cabinet. The battery cabinet may include an internal power outlet for charging multiple batteries (e.g., simultaneously). Furthermore, the battery cabinet may include one or more shelves for positioning batteries on chargers or storing batteries. The battery cabinet may include compartments or rows implemented using one or more shelves to divide the internal capacity into different sections as needed.

[0027] In one example, the battery cabinet may include an insulated or reinforced enclosure. In a specific example, the battery cabinet may include a double-walled enclosure (e.g., an inner cabinet wall and an outer cabinet wall separated by an air gap) having at least one door to enclose the internal volume. In these or other examples, the insulated (e.g., air-insulated) double-walled enclosure of the battery cabinet helps mitigate heat transfer from the internal volume to the surrounding environment. Furthermore, the double-walled structure can serve as reinforcement to help contain an explosion event within the internal volume.

[0028] The battery cabinet of this invention does not contain heavy insulation materials (such as drywall or plasterboard), and is therefore lighter than conventional EN cabinets. Consequently, the battery cabinet of this invention can be more easily transported, moved, lifted, installed, or stacked.

[0029] Furthermore, in one or more examples, the battery cabinet may also include forced ventilation for cooling the internal volume while the battery is charging. In the event of thermal runaway or battery termination, the battery cabinet of the present invention includes various features to help suppress these events within the internal volume. For example, the battery cabinet of the present invention may include dampers for sealing ventilation ports to mitigate the escape of combustion energy and smoke / fumes (and to stop airflow to supply any combustion energy within the internal volume). In specific examples, the damper is temperature-activated based on the temperature within the internal volume of the battery cabinet. For example, the damper may be activated via a fusible connector that can melt at a predetermined temperature. Further, in some embodiments, the damper may be actively biased to move to a closed position. For example, the damper may be spring-loaded to ensure that the damper closes at an appropriate time before or during a thermal event. This active bias can overcome potential problems with gravity-based dampers (which may be susceptibility to corrosion, debris blockage, or other inhibiting forces that prevent the damper from falling to the closed position by gravity).

[0030] The battery cabinet of the present invention may also include one or more flame arresters. For example, the flame arrester may be located at one or both of the air inlet and the air outlet. The flame arrester can mitigate or prevent flame leakage from the battery cabinet through the vents. Furthermore, in some examples, the flame arrester can provide additional or alternative flame protection to the surrounding environment even if the damper is not activated before an explosion event within the internal volume.

[0031] In at least some embodiments, the battery cabinet of the present invention may include an expansion seal for mitigating flame and smoke leakage. Alternatively or additionally, the battery cabinet of the present invention may include an extension flange, deflector, etc., to extend the travel required for leaking flame (thereby reducing or even completely offsetting the leakage of combustion energy from the battery cabinet).

[0032] The following is combined Figure 1-13 These and other embodiments are discussed. However, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the detailed description of these figures given herein is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. Furthermore, as used herein, system, method, article, component, feature, or sub-feature, including at least one of the first option, second option, or third option, should be understood to refer to a system, method, article, component, feature, or sub-feature that may include one of each listed option (e.g., only one of the first options, only one of the second options, or only one of the third options), multiple of a single listed option (e.g., two or more of the first options), two options simultaneously (e.g., one of the first options and one of the second option), or a combination thereof (e.g., two of the first options and one of the second option).

[0033] Figure 1-3Exemplary schematic environments of battery cabinet 102 according to one or more examples of the present invention are shown. Figure 1-3 While the figures are more illustrative in nature, the subsequent figures depict the more specific features, components, and configuration of the battery cabinet 102.

[0034] exist Figure 1 In the illustration, environment 100 depicts a battery cabinet 102 located on a workbench 104. The workbench 104 may include a horizontal surface above a floor 106. For example, the workbench 104 may include a table, desk, platform, shelf, etc. It should also be understood that the workbench 104 does not need to be in contact with the floor 106. For example, the workbench 104 may be cantilevered from a wall to be suspended above the floor 106.

[0035] Accordingly, the size and shape of the battery cabinet 102 can accommodate various types of workbenches and space layouts. In some examples, the size and shape of the battery cabinet 102 can accommodate battery capacity specifications of different sizes, such as 10 to 20 gallons, 30 to 50 gallons, or 50 to 75 gallons.

[0036] Similarly, the battery cabinet 102 may include weight that allows users to easily move the battery cabinet 102 onto or off the workbench 104, as well as carry it up stairs, etc. In fact, as described below, the battery cabinet 102 may include various lightweight design features, including insulated air gaps without heavy insulation materials (such as drywall, common in EN-type cabinets). In particular examples, the battery cabinet 102 ranges from approximately 140 lbs to 350 lbs, depending on the volume size of the housing specification. In at least one example, the battery cabinet 102 weighs from approximately 150 lbs to approximately 175 lbs (e.g., for a 17-gallon housing specification). Such weight of the battery cabinet 102 can significantly improve its portability, especially considering that conventional EN-type cabinets of the same size weigh approximately 25% to 60% more.

[0037] Figure 2 An environment 200 is shown where the battery cabinet 102 is located on or within a vehicle 202. The vehicle 202 can correspond to a variety of different vehicles, including landscaping vehicles, emergency vehicles (e.g., ambulances, fire trucks, police cars), buses, motorcycles, etc. Instead of an actual vehicle, it is understood that the vehicle 202 can include trailers (e.g., utility trailers, welding trailers, etc.), campervans (RVs), etc.

[0038] In these or other examples, battery cabinet 102 may be equipped with fasteners, interlocking components, mounting recesses or sockets, etc. In other examples, battery cabinet 102 may be placed on a surface (e.g., on a truck bed, similar to a toolbox). Therefore, in some examples, battery cabinet 102 may include weather-resistant features for operation (and protection against damage) despite exposure to natural elements such as rain, snow, or cold / hot temperatures. Examples of such features may include gaskets, sealants, coatings, overlays, enclosures, shields, thermal blankets, heat reflectors, etc. Alternatively, battery cabinet 102 may be protected or at least partially enclosed by vehicle 202 (e.g., under the side panel of a fire truck).

[0039] Figure 3 Another exemplary environment 300 is shown, in which the battery cabinet 102 is located on the ground 106 (e.g., without any intermediate support structure). In this example, the battery cabinet 102 includes a freestanding or self-supporting cabinet. Although not schematically shown, it should be understood that the battery cabinet 102 may include rollers (e.g., casters), support feet, or other elements to support the battery cabinet 102 on the ground 106 (or vehicle surface).

[0040] Furthermore, while these and other implementations described herein are graphically referenced to horizontal embodiments (e.g., length greater than height), alternative embodiments of the battery cabinet 102 may be more vertical (e.g., height greater than length). This implementation may be particularly feasible, for example, in an environment 300 where the battery cabinet 102 is located on the ground 106 (opposite to a workbench surface or vehicle surface).

[0041] Furthermore, in one or more of the above-described environments, the battery cabinets 102 can be stacked or mounted on top of each other. In some examples, one or more battery cabinets 102 in a stacked configuration can also be secured to a wall or supporting structure by anchors (e.g., fasteners) when in a stacked configuration.

[0042] Modifications to the aforementioned environment also fall within the scope of this invention. In fact, any environment 100-300 can be implemented in a network environment. For example, in some embodiments, the battery cabinet 102 can communicate with one or more client devices via a network (e.g., for alerting users, triggering building alarms, activating emergency safety measures, flashing visual warning indicators, engaging dampers of the battery cabinet 102, cutting off power to the battery cabinet 102, etc.). Similarly, one or more sensors (e.g., temperature sensors, sound sensors, pressure sensors, smoke / gas sensors, light sensors, door half-open sensors, etc.) can be implemented within the battery cabinet 102 to communicate data with one or more client devices via a network.

[0043] In such an example, the client device can include a variety of computing devices. Some examples of computing devices include smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, desktop computers, laptops, virtual reality devices, augmented reality devices, or other computing devices. Other types of computing devices include content servers, data acquisition servers, application servers, communication servers, third-party servers, etc.

[0044] Regarding the network used to facilitate this communication between battery cabinet 102 and client devices, the network can also include various different types of networks (whether wired or wireless for communication). For example, one or more components in environments 100-300 can communicate via wireless LAN communication, wireless local area network communication, wireless personal area network communication, wide area network communication, etc. Some specific examples of wireless communication include Wi-Fi-based communication, cellular network communication, satellite communication, mesh network communication, Bluetooth® communication, near-field communication, low-energy communication, Zigbee® communication, Z-wave communication, 6 LoWPAN communication, radio frequency communication, etc. Other forms of network communication are based on wired connections, such as Ethernet connections, USB connections, UART connections, USART connections, I2C connections, SPI connections, QSPI connections, etc.

[0045] Figures 1 to 3 Any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown may be included, individually or in any combination, in instances of other devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures of this specification. Similarly, any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration shown and described with reference to other figures) may be included, individually or in any combination. Figures 1 to 3 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0046] Figure 4 A top front perspective view of an exemplary battery cabinet according to one or more examples of the present invention is shown. Specifically, Figure 4A charging cabinet 102 including a reinforcing wall 402 is shown. The reinforcing wall 402 can be reinforced in various ways (e.g., to improve rigidity, strength, thermal properties, etc.). In particular, the reinforcing wall 402 is capable of withstanding (and containing) thermal runaway of one or more batteries, including explosive explosions and fire temperatures. For this purpose, the reinforcing wall 402 may comprise metallic materials, rigid materials, fire-resistant materials, etc. In some examples, the reinforcing wall 402 comprises steel plates with a thickness (or gauge) between 1 / 100 inch (0.01 inch) and 1 / 8 inch (e.g., suitable for one or more layers of metal). In at least one example, the reinforcing wall 402 comprises one or more layers of steel plates with a thickness of approximately 0.0425 inches or 18 steel. In specific embodiments (discussed below), the reinforcing wall 402 comprises multiple layers of walls (e.g., inner cabinet walls and outer cabinet walls) separated by insulating air gaps.

[0047] Furthermore, as shown, the battery cabinet 102 may include an air convection port 404 that passes through a reinforcing wall 402 and enters the internal volume of the battery cabinet 102. The air convection port 404 may include an air inlet and / or an air outlet. The air convection port 404 may be unidirectional (e.g., dedicated to an inlet or dedicated to an outlet). Alternatively, the air convection port 404 may be bidirectional (e.g., serving as both an inlet and an outlet). In some examples, the air convection port 404 may include a fan, blower, pump, etc., to force ventilation through the battery cabinet 102. In this way, the air convection port 404 can actively cool the internal volume of the battery cabinet 102 by introducing cool air from the surrounding environment (or other air sources, such as a chiller or air pump). Alternatively or concurrently, the air convection port 404 can actively cool the internal volume of the battery cabinet 102 by drawing hot air from its internal volume.

[0048] Although not explicitly shown in the figure, it should be understood that the air convection port 404 can be modified in various ways. For example, the air convection port 404 may include a raised ring. The raised ring facilitates the installation of pipes, fittings, etc., for actively extracting (e.g., vacuuming) air from the internal volume 500.

[0049] It should be understood that the air convection port 404 can operate continuously (e.g., when powered). In other examples, the air convection port 404 can operate at time intervals or based on the temperature of the internal volume. In at least one example, the air convection port 404 can stop operating during a thermal event of battery thermal runaway or catastrophic termination within the internal volume.

[0050] Battery cabinet 102 may also include an electrical port 406. Electrical port 406 can be electrically connected to other components of battery cabinet 102 (e.g., power strips for battery chargers, air convection port 404, etc.). In these or other examples, electrical port 406 may include a male or female connector for connection to a power source of at least 110V, 120V, 220V, or 240V. In a specific implementation, electrical port 406 can provide 120 VAC, 60 Hz power from a power source to battery cabinet 102. In other embodiments, electrical port 406 can provide 240 VAC, 50 Hz power from a power source to battery cabinet 102.

[0051] As used herein, the term "power source" refers to any power source that supplies power to battery cabinet 102. For example, a power source may include a fuel cell, battery cell, generator, alternator, solar converter, motion-based converter (e.g., converting vibration or oscillation into power), etc. In certain embodiments, the power source may convert alternating current to direct current (and vice versa) to power or charge / recharge the components of battery cabinet 102. Some specific examples of power sources may include switch-mode power sources, uninterruptible power supplies, AC power sources, DC power sources, regulated power sources, programmable power sources, computer power sources, and linear power sources. In some examples, the power source includes vehicle power sources, such as vehicle batteries.

[0052] The battery cabinet 102 may also include one or more doors 408. As shown in the figure, the battery cabinet 102 may include two doors 408. Doors 408 (e.g. Figure 5 As shown, the door 408 can swing laterally to expose the internal volume of the battery cabinet 102. However, in other examples, the door 408 can open vertically, roll up, slide, etc. In certain embodiments, the door 408 can close automatically or self-close (e.g., when the door 408 is kept half-open without external force). Furthermore, in some examples, the door 408 can be locked. Further, in some examples, the door 408 may include the same or similar structure as the reinforcing wall 402 (e.g., double wall).

[0053] Figure 4 It also shows Figure 7-9 The identifiers for the cross-sectional views. These views depict certain components of the structure, including the internal volume and / or reinforcing wall 402, electrical port 406, and door 408 introduced in this view.

[0054] Any feature, component and / or part, including Figure 4 The arrangements and configurations shown may be included, individually or in any combination, in any other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in the other figures described herein. Similarly, any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration shown and described with reference to other figures) may be included, individually or in any combination. Figure 4 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0055] Figure 5 Another top front perspective view of a battery cabinet 102 according to one or more examples of the present invention is shown. In particular, Figure 5 The battery cabinet 102 is depicted with its door 408 opened to expose the internal volume 500. In these or other examples, the dimensions and boundaries of the internal volume 500 are defined by the reinforcing wall 402 and the door 408. As shown, the internal volume 500 includes a bottom shelf 502 and a top shelf 504. The top shelf 504 divides the internal volume 500 into an upper section 506 and a lower section 508. In alternative embodiments, more or fewer shelves may be implemented. Similarly, different partitions and compartments may be formed than those shown in the illustration.

[0056] In some examples, the bottom 508 is used to charge the battery, and the upper 506 is used to store batteries that are not in a charging cycle (e.g., fully charged batteries, used batteries, or dead batteries ready for charging). In this example configuration, the rechargeable battery can be cooled by direct air application from the air convection port 510 (e.g., an air inlet). Warmer air from the rechargeable battery in the lower 506 can then rise and exit the rechargeable battery (e.g., naturally due to fluid buoyancy and / or assisted by the air convection port 404). Specifically, the warmer air from the rechargeable battery in the lower 506 can rise to the upper 508, where the air convection port 404 can exhaust the warmer air. Alternatively, the opposite storage configuration can be maintained. Similarly, in some embodiments, the opposite airflow configuration can be implemented, where the air convection port 404 is an air inlet and the air convection port 510 is an air outlet. Regardless, by keeping rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries in separate areas within the internal volume 500, the battery cabinet 102 reduces the fire hazard within it. In other examples, both the upper section 506 and the lower section 508 can be used as charging rooms, or both can be used as storage (non-charging) rooms. However, the battery cabinet 102 is not limited to this. In fact, in some examples, rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries can be stored together.

[0057] Further as Figure 5 As shown, air convection port 510 includes barrier 512 (although air convection port 404 is not visible from this view). Barrier 512 may include one or more elements to help keep air convection ports 404, 510 unobstructed, preventing blockages, debris, or accidental intrusion by a user's arm / hand. In some examples, barrier 512 may include a shield, grille, lattice, cover, etc. Additionally, as shown below... Figure 10-12As described, barrier 512 can operate in series with a damper to block (e.g., seal, close, or prohibit) airflow through air convection ports 404, 510.

[0058] In these or other examples, air convection ports 404 and 510 may be located at opposite ends of battery cabinet 102. Specifically, air convection port 510 may be located at a first end 514 of battery cabinet 102, and air convection port 404 may be located at a second end 516 of battery cabinet 102 opposite to the first end 514. Furthermore, and as shown, air convection ports 404 and 510 may be located in different compartments or at different heights (e.g., to achieve cooler cross-ventilation along the upper 506 and more targeted exhaust of warmer air in the lower 508 as described above). However, in alternative examples, air convection ports 404 and 510 may be located in the same portion of the internal volume 500 (e.g., both in the upper 506 or both in the lower 508). It should be understood that different storage implementations may require these or other airflow configurations. Therefore, battery cabinet 102 can be configured in various different ways for battery charging / storage and airflow.

[0059] Further as Figure 5 As shown, battery cabinet 102 may include a power outlet 518. In some examples, power outlet 518 is electrically connected to electrical port 406. Therefore, power outlet 518 can provide power for battery chargers, battery mounts, internal cabinet lights, etc., within the internal volume 500. Alternatively, power outlet 518 can provide power for built-in components of battery cabinet 102, such as fans for air convection ports 404. In these or other examples, power outlet 518 may include a socket, outlet, or power strip. In some examples, power outlet 518 includes additional features (e.g., grounding, shielding, miniature circuit breaker, surge protection, timer, automatic shutdown trigger, etc.). In certain embodiments, power outlet 518 is programmable to be de-energized (e.g., during battery thermal runaway).

[0060] In one or more examples, the power outlet 518 may be located at different locations within the internal volume 500. As shown, the power outlet 518 is located on the surface of the bottom shelf 502. However, the battery cabinet 102 is not limited to this. In fact, the power outlet 518 may be additionally or alternatively provided on the top shelf 504. In other examples, the power outlet 518 may be vertically arranged along one or more inner sidewalls of the battery cabinet 102. In a specific embodiment, the battery cabinet 102 includes multiple power outlets (e.g., one for the upper part 506 and another for the lower part 508).

[0061] Figure 5Any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown may be included, alone or in any combination, in other embodiments of the devices, features, components, and parts illustrated in other figures of this specification. Similarly, any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown and described in other figures may be included, alone or in any combination. Figure 5 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0062] Figure 6 A bottom rear perspective view of a battery cabinet 102 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is shown. In this view, the rear side of the battery cabinet 102 opposite to the door 408 is shown.

[0063] Furthermore, Figure 6 A view of the air convection port 510 is shown; while the air convection port 510 is blocked by barrier 512 from... Figure 5 The view is obscured. As described above, the air convection port 510 can be an air inlet or an air outlet. In a particular embodiment, the air convection port 510 includes a threaded inner surface to engage a pneumatic fitting that supplies cool air (or ambient air) to the internal volume 500. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the threaded inner surface of the air convection port 510 may engage a vacuum fitting to draw air out of the internal volume 500.

[0064] in addition, Figure 6 The battery cabinet 102 shown may include feet 600. In some examples, feet 600 include adjustable feet (e.g., feet can be raised or lowered accordingly by inserting or removing them into or out of the battery cabinet 102). In some examples, feet 600 are fixed feet (e.g., having a flat contact surface to engage with the ground, vehicle surface, workbench surface, etc.). Feet 600 may include a friction-inducing material (e.g., rubber) to mitigate slippage or creep of the battery cabinet 102 on a surface.

[0065] Figure 6 Any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown may be included, individually or in any combination, in other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures of this specification. Similarly, any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown and described in other figures may be included, individually or in any combination. Figure 6 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0066] Figure 7-9 Different cross-sections of one or more examples of the battery cabinet 102 according to the present invention are shown. These views are taken from... Figure 4 The cross-section shown.

[0067] Figure 7-9 An exemplary wall structure for battery cabinet 102 is shown in particular. As shown, battery cabinet 102 includes an outer cabinet wall 700 and an inner cabinet wall 702. The outer cabinet wall 700 is spaced apart from the inner cabinet wall 702, forming an insulating air gap (or air gap 704). In these or other examples, the air gap 704 provides insulation due to its dimensional span between the outer cabinet wall 700 and the inner cabinet wall 702. The greater the distance between the outer cabinet wall 700 and the inner cabinet wall 702, the greater the insulation (and vice versa). That is, the larger the air volume between the outer cabinet wall 700 and the inner cabinet wall 702, the less heat is transferred from the inner cabinet wall 702 to the outer cabinet wall 700. In the same or similar manner, door 408 may include a double-wall structure with an air gap (such as...). Figure 8 (As shown). In these or other examples, the air gap 704 ranges from a 1 / 2-inch span to a 5-inch span between the external cabinet wall 700 and the internal cabinet wall 702. In a particular embodiment, the air gap 704 spans between 1 inch and 2 inches.

[0068] As previously stated, the battery cabinet 102 does not contain the heavy-duty insulation typical of conventional EN-type cabinets. In fact, in specific examples, the air gap 704 contains no insulation material at all (except for existing air particles and cabinet components disposed within the air gap). However, in some embodiments, the battery cabinet 102 may include lightweight insulation material (i.e., lighter than drywall). For example, the air gap 704 may include mineral wool, spray foam, aerogel, polystyrene, polyurethane, fiberglass, cellulose insulation, polar wool, etc. In at least some examples, the lightweight insulation material in the air gap 704 can reduce heat transfer from the internal volume 500 to the external cabinet wall 700.

[0069] In addition to the air gap, the battery cabinet 102 may also include a wiring space 706. The size and shape of the wiring space 706 are suitable for accommodating the wires between the electrical port 406 and the power outlet 518. However, it should be understood that the wiring space 706 may be omitted, in which case the wires may pass through the air gap 704 below the power outlet 518.

[0070] As previously mentioned, certain cabinet components may be located within air gap 704. One example includes door piston 708. Door piston 708 allows door 408 to open and close. In particular, door piston 708 can provide a reset bias force to door 408, causing door 408 to close automatically.

[0071] At least as Figure 7 As shown, battery cabinet 102 may include a flame arrester 710. The flame arrester 710 may be located inside (or adjacent to) one or both of the air convection ports 404 and 510. Figure 7 As shown, the flame arrester 710 is located inside the air convection port 510 between the external cabinet wall 700 and the internal cabinet wall 702. In these or other examples, the flame arrester 710 includes a suppressing element that reduces or prevents flame leakage. The flame arrester 710 may be dense enough to suppress or prevent such flames, but porous enough to allow airflow. In some examples, the flame arrester 710 includes a stainless steel mesh, cover plate, or fitting. Other types of flame arresters are also considered herein.

[0072] exist Figure 8 In this design, the top shelf 504 is depicted as including a width of 800. It should be understood that the width 800 can be adjusted to allow for cross-ventilation or airflow between the upper part 506 and the lower part 508. For example, the width 800 can be reduced to leave an internal gap between the door 408 (when closed) and the top shelf 504. In such a gap, increased airflow can be generated between the upper part 506 and the lower part 508. In other examples, the width 800 can be extended as shown here, where the top shelf 504 can contact or be positioned near the door 408 when it is closed. Despite this greater fit, the top shelf 504 and the corresponding width 800, as shown, provide sufficient ventilation and airflow. Furthermore, in some examples, a greater fit between the top shelf 504 and the door 408 can be expected (e.g., to better separate the upper part 506 and the lower part 508, for example, for separate charging and non-charging battery compartments).

[0073] In some examples, the top shelf 504 may also include a hole 802. The hole 802 is sized and shaped to accommodate wiring (e.g., a power cord for a charger base located in the upper portion 506, extending to a power outlet 518 in the lower portion 508). Additionally or alternatively, the hole 802 may accommodate airflow between the upper portion 506 and the lower portion 508 of the internal volume 500.

[0074] exist Figure 9 In the diagram, door 408 is shown with a flange 900. The flange 900 may include an extension of door 408 that extends along (or beyond) the door frame 902 of battery cabinet 102. For example, the flange 900 may include a lip or baffle (e.g., extending parallel to door 408) that covers the door frame 902 and extends to the top and bottom of battery cabinet 102. In these or other examples, door frame 902 refers to the door frame area of ​​battery cabinet 102 that engages with or is positioned adjacent to door 408 when door 408 is closed. Figure 13 As will be discussed in more detail, flange 900 can extend the travel required for leaking flame (thereby reducing or even completely offsetting the leakage of combustion energy from battery cabinet 102).

[0075] Furthermore, the battery cabinet 102 may include a deflector 904 located on one or both of the shelves 502, 504. Similar to the flange 900, the deflector 904 may similarly include a lip or baffle. When the deflector 904 is closed, it may be in contact with or near the door 408. In these or other examples, the deflector 904 may cause (e.g., block, reduce, or throttle) flame or explosive energy to leak upwards or downwards along the door 408.

[0076] Furthermore, in some examples, the battery cabinet 102 may include an expansion seal 906. The expansion seal may be disposed around at least one of the doors 408 or door frames 902. In some examples, the expansion seal comprises a fire-resistant material. Additionally, the expansion seal 906 may expand in the presence of high temperatures (e.g., to completely or partially seal off smoke and flames within the internal volume 500).

[0077] Figures 7 to 9 Any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown may be included, individually or in any combination, in examples of other devices, features, components, and parts shown in other illustrations of this specification. Similarly, any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown and described in other illustrations may be included, individually or in any combination of... Figure 7-9 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0078] Figure 10-12 An example barrier damper assembly is shown. Specifically, Figure 10-12 A barrier 512 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is shown. Additionally, as will be combined... Figure 11-12 As described further, barrier 512 includes damper 1100 for closing the air convection port.

[0079] like Figure 10 As shown, barrier 512 includes an opening region 1000. The opening region 1000 includes air holes for allowing airflow through barrier 512. Specifically, the opening region 1000 includes hexagonally configured holes. However, it should be understood that the opening region 1000 can include various different hole configurations (e.g., circular, triangular, square, polygonal, etc.). In at least some examples, different configurations of the shape of the opening region 1000 can provide different airflow characteristics (e.g., hole size and spacing can be achieved).

[0080] Further as Figure 10 As shown, barrier 512 may include a slotted portion 1002. The slotted portion 1002 includes cutouts within barrier 512 that allow the damper support (i.e., ...) to open and close when the damper is in operation. Figure 11-12The damper bracket 1108 shown can slide through this cut.

[0081] A fusible connector 1004 can be implemented to hold the damper 1100 in the open position. As used herein, the term "fusible connector" refers to a fusible element that can be melted at a predetermined temperature (e.g., a melting point or pre-identification / certification temperature at which the fusible connector at least begins to flow in a fluid or semi-fluid form). An example of a predetermined temperature range is from 150 degrees Fahrenheit to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. In a specific implementation, the predetermined temperature is approximately 165 degrees Fahrenheit. When the fusible connector 1004 is exposed to the predetermined temperature, the fusible connector 1004 is capable of releasing the damper 1100 to the closed position (or more specifically, releasing the damper support 1108, as shown). Figure 11 (As shown).

[0082] exist Figure 11 In this embodiment, the fusible connector 1004 includes a first portion 1102 connected to the damper bracket 1108. Furthermore, the fusible connector 1004 may include a second portion 1104 connected to the barrier bracket 1106. The first portion 1102 and the second portion 1104 together anchor the damper 1100 into place until the fusible connector 1004 is exposed to a temperature within the internal volume 500 that meets or exceeds a predetermined temperature. Therefore, when the fusible connector 1004 is exposed to the predetermined temperature, at least the first portion 1102 releases the damper bracket 1108 or the second portion 1104 releases the barrier bracket 1106. Upon release, when the damper 1100 is closed, the damper bracket 1108 can slide through the slotted portion 1002 (thus sealing the airflow through the opening region 1000).

[0083] In these or other examples, various fusible connectors can be used to implement fusible connector 1004. In some examples, fusible connector 1004 may include two metal strips welded together with a fusible alloy (e.g., a metal strip for the first portion 1102 and a metal strip for the second portion 1104 are joined together by a welded portion of the fusible alloy). At a predetermined temperature, the fusible alloy can melt and allow the two metal strips to separate.

[0084] Figure 12 The back side of the barrier 512, including the damper 1100, is shown. As shown, the damper 1100 includes a face 1200 positioned offset from the opening region 1000 (i.e., in the open position that allows airflow through the opening region 1000). However, during a thermal event within the internal volume 500, when the fusible connector 1004 is released, the face 1200 can slide laterally (e.g., horizontally) in front of the opening region 1000 to a closed position to prevent airflow through the opening region 1000.

[0085] As a horizontal sliding motion, spring 1206 can be used to actively bias (e.g., spring-loaded) the damper 1100 to a closed position in front of the opening region 1000. To provide such bias, spring 1206 can connect the supports 1202, 1204 (of the damper 1100) to corresponding connectors 1208 located on opposite sides of the opening region 1000. During this connection, spring 1206 can apply a constant tension to the supports 1202, 1204 (e.g., a spring force applying tension toward connector 1208). As described above, this active biasing of the damper 1100 avoids common problems (e.g., corrosion, debris buildup, etc.) that can lead to damper activation failure due to gravity-based dampers. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the damper of the present invention can be supplemented by gravity (in addition to active biasing elements such as springs).

[0086] Figures 10 to 12 Any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown may be included, individually or in any combination, in other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures of this specification. Similarly, any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown and described in other figures may be included, individually or in any combination. Figure 10-12 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0087] Figure 13 Battery cabinet 102 is shown (e.g.) Figure 9 A close-up view of a portion of (shown), where door 408 is connected to the main body of battery cabinet 102. Specifically, Figure 13 The diagram illustrates how the flange 900 of door 408 abuts (or is adjacent to) door frame 902 (e.g., for sealing, protective closure). Although not shown, an expansion seal 906 may also be implemented to provide additional sealing properties.

[0088] like Figure 13 As shown, path 1300 corresponds to the projected flame path in the event of thermal runaway or catastrophic termination of the battery within the internal volume 500. As will be discussed now, the longer path 1300, the less likely the flame is to traverse the entire path 1300. Bending and / or kinking can also be implemented at the adjoining points of door 408 and door frame 902 to extend path 1300, and deflection points can be introduced that can (in combination) weaken the combustion energy of the flame. For example, a first deflection point 1302 may correspond to the inner door wall of door 408. Similarly, a second deflection point 1304 may correspond to the inner cabinet wall 702, and a third deflection point 1306 may correspond to the flange 900 of door 408. Of course, additional or optional deflection points can be implemented in other embodiments.

[0089] As described above, path 1300 can be extended in various ways. In some examples, the distance between deflection points 1304 and 1306 can be increased by creating a larger span between the inner and outer door walls of door 408 (and correspondingly extending door frame 902 outward). In another example, the flange height 1308 of flange 900 can be increased to extend path 1300. Additionally, in some examples, flange height 1308 can extend above outer cabinet wall 700, and then flange 900 can be bent backward to overlap with outer cabinet wall 700. In this way, flange 900 can be used to redirect any flame to a wall or safe direction away from the user. The extended flange overlap relative to outer cabinet wall 700 can also be used to attenuate any combustion energy leaking from internal volume 500.

[0090] Figure 13 Any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown may be included, individually or in any combination, in other examples of devices, features, components, and parts shown in other figures of this specification. Similarly, any feature, component, and / or part (including its arrangement and configuration) shown and described in other figures may be included, individually or in any combination. Figure 13 Examples of devices, features, components, and parts are shown.

[0091] For the purposes of explanation, specific terminology has been used in the above description to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required to implement the described embodiments. Therefore, for purposes of illustration and description, the above description of specific embodiments described herein is presented. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed.

[0092] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made in light of the foregoing teachings. Indeed, various inventions have been described herein in conjunction with certain specific aspects and examples. However, those skilled will recognize that many variations can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention disclosed herein. Specifically, the invention in the following claims is intended to cover all changes and modifications to the disclosed invention without departing from the spirit of the invention. The term "comprising" as used in the specification has the same meaning as the term "including".

Claims

1. A double-walled battery charging cabinet, characterized in that, including: an outer cabinet wall; an inner cabinet wall spaced apart from the outer cabinet wall to form a thermally insulating air gap between the inner cabinet wall and the outer cabinet wall, the inner cabinet wall defining an interior volume; an air convection port disposed through the outer cabinet wall and the inner cabinet wall; a firestop located within or proximate to the air convection port; a damper located proximate to the air convection port; a biasing member to bias the damper to a closed position; a fusible link to hold the damper in an open position, the fusible link having a predetermined melting point at which the biasing member causes the damper to slide horizontally from the open position to the closed position; and a power outlet disposed within the interior volume. The biasing member includes one or more spring members to bias the damper to the closed position.

2. The double-walled battery charging cabinet of claim 1, wherein, The double-walled battery charging cabinet further includes a screen located proximate to the air convection port, the screen including an open area for airflow through the screen.

3. The double-walled battery charging cabinet of claim 1, wherein, 4. The double-walled battery charging cabinet of claim 3, wherein: the screen defines a slotted portion; and the damper includes a bracket extending through the slotted portion to engage the fusible link. further including:

5. The double-walled battery charger cabinet of claim 1, wherein, a door and a corresponding door frame surrounding the interior volume; and an expansion seal disposed around at least one of the door or the door frame. The air convection port includes an air intake, and the double-walled battery further includes an additional air convection port including an air exhaust. The air convection port includes a fan.

6. The double-walled battery charging cabinet of claim 1, wherein, further including a foot to support the double-walled battery charging cabinet on a surface.

7. The double-walled battery charger cabinet of claim 1, wherein, The surface includes a workbench surface.

8. The double-walled battery charger cabinet of claim 1, wherein, including:

9. The double-walled battery charger cabinet of claim 8, wherein, a reinforced wall defining an interior volume; 10. A battery charging cabinet, characterized in that, a shelf disposed within the interior volume and dividing the interior volume into at least a first portion and a second portion; an air intake disposed through the reinforced wall for airflow into the first portion at a first end of the battery charging cabinet; an air exhaust disposed through the reinforced wall for airflow out of the second portion at a second end of the battery charging cabinet opposite the first end; and a spring damper located proximate to each of the air intake and the air exhaust, the spring damper slidable between an open position and a closed position. The reinforced wall includes a first wall layer and a second wall layer. further including an air gap between the first wall layer and the second wall layer, the air gap being about 1 inch to about 3 inches. further including a fusible link to hold the spring damper in the open position when the fusible link is exposed to a temperature in the interior volume less than a predetermined temperature.

11. The battery charging cabinet of claim 10, wherein, further including a firestop located within or proximate to at least the air intake.

12. The battery charging cabinet of claim 11, wherein, further including a power outlet disposed in at least one of the first portion or the second portion of the interior volume.

13. The battery charging cabinet of claim 10, wherein, including:

14. The battery charging cabinet of claim 10, wherein, an outer cabinet wall; 15. The battery charging cabinet of claim 10, wherein, ​ 16. A battery cabinet, characterized by ​ ​ an inner cabinet wall spaced from the outer cabinet wall to form a thermally insulated air gap between the inner cabinet wall and the outer cabinet wall; a pair of doors, the inner cabinet wall and the pair of doors enclosing an interior volume within the battery cabinet; a pair of air convection ports disposed through the outer cabinet wall and the inner cabinet wall at different heights within the interior volume at opposite cabinet ends, wherein at least one of the pair of air convection ports includes a fan; a fire damper within or adjacent to at least one of the pair of air convection ports; a horizontal slide damper adjacent to each of the pair of air convection ports, the horizontal slide damper biased toward a closed position; a fusible link to laterally hold the horizontal slide damper under the bias and in an open position based on a temperature within the interior volume; and a power outlet disposed within the interior volume.

17. The battery cabinet of claim 16, wherein, Each of the pair of doors is double walled.

18. The battery cabinet of claim 16, wherein, Each of the pair of doors includes a flange.

19. The battery cabinet of claim 16, wherein, Further comprising a shelf dividing the interior volume into at least a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion cross ventilate during operation of the pair of air convection ports.

20. The battery cabinet of claim 16, wherein, The battery cabinet includes a weight of about 150 pounds to about 175 pounds.

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