Battery detoxification device

Abstract

Provided is a hydrogen sulfide detoxification device for a battery that detoxifies hydrogen sulfide using a simple configuration. A vehicle (10) mainly includes a medium flow passage (30), a medium cooling section (35), a battery pack case (23), and an arithmetic control section (24). The medium flow passage (30) is configured so that cooling medium (33) flows inside the medium flow passage (30) in a manner in which battery cells (22) containing sulfides are disposed between each other. The medium cooling section (35) is configured so that the cooling medium (33) is cooled. A detection section (25) is configured so that hydrogen sulfide generated from the battery cells (22) is detected. If the detection section (25) detects that hydrogen sulfide is generated, the arithmetic control section (24) causes the cooling medium (33) that has been cooled by the medium cooling section (35) to flow in the medium flow passage (30).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a battery decontamination device. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, vehicles equipped with large batteries for driving motors have emerged. Currently, liquid-based lithium-ion batteries are used for these batteries.

[0003] To advance battery capacity and energy density, using all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries is effective. As a basic component, an all-solid-state lithium-ion battery consists of a ternary cathode material, a solid electrolyte, and a carbon anode. Solid electrolytes are broadly classified into oxide-based and sulfide-based solid electrolytes. Sulfide-based solid electrolytes are considered suitable for high-capacity, high-output batteries, such as those used in electric vehicles. However, because sulfide-based solid electrolytes are primarily made from sulfur, there is a risk of them reacting with moisture in the air to produce toxic gases such as hydrogen sulfide.

[0004] Patent Document 1 describes an all-solid-state battery capable of absorbing and neutralizing hydrogen sulfide gas generated by a power generation element. Specifically, Patent Document 1 includes a housing that houses the power generation element, and a hydrogen sulfide neutralizing agent is disposed inside the housing. The hydrogen sulfide neutralizing agent is a substance that neutralizes hydrogen sulfide generated from a sulfur-containing sulfide-based solid electrolyte.

[0005] Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-113803 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues However, the inventions described in the aforementioned patent documents have room for improvement from the viewpoint of effectively rendering hydrogen sulfide harmless.

[0007] Specifically, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, alkaline substances, activated carbon, etc., are used as hydrogen sulfide neutralizing agents to neutralize hydrogen sulfide. However, if such a hydrogen sulfide neutralizing agent is used, a holding component is required to retain the hydrogen sulfide neutralizing agent, which leads to problems such as increased battery structure, deterioration of space efficiency, and consequently, high cost.

[0008] The present invention was made in view of the following problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide a battery detoxification device that can detoxify hydrogen sulfide using a simple configuration.

[0009] Technical solution The battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a medium flow section disposed between battery cells containing sulfides and through which a cooling medium flows; a medium cooling section for cooling the cooling medium; a detection section for detecting the generation of hydrogen sulfide from the battery cells; and an operational control section that, if the detection section detects the generation of hydrogen sulfide, causes the cooling medium cooled by the medium cooling section to flow through the medium flow section.

[0010] Technical effect According to an embodiment of the present invention, if the detection unit detects that hydrogen sulfide has been generated from the solid-state battery, the cooled cooling medium is circulated through the medium flow section. This causes condensation to form on the surface of the medium flow section, dissolving the hydrogen sulfide in the condensation and thus suppressing hydrogen sulfide diffusion. Therefore, it is possible to prevent occupants from being adversely affected by hydrogen sulfide using a low-cost method. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a side view of a vehicle equipped with a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2A This is a top view showing a battery pack equipped with a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 3A This is a cross-sectional view showing a medium flow section in a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, in another manner.

[0015] Figure 3B This is a cross-sectional view showing a medium flow section in a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, in another manner.

[0016] Figure 4A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses cooling water as the cooling medium.

[0017] Figure 4B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 5A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses cooling water as the cooling medium.

[0019] Figure 5BThis is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 6A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses cooling water as the cooling medium.

[0021] Figure 6B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 7A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses a refrigerant as a cooling medium.

[0023] Figure 7B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 8A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses a refrigerant as a cooling medium.

[0025] Figure 8B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 9A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses a refrigerant as a cooling medium.

[0027] Figure 9B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 10A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses a refrigerant as a cooling medium.

[0029] Figure 10B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 11A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses a refrigerant as a cooling medium.

[0031] Figure 11B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 12A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses a refrigerant as a cooling medium.

[0033] Figure 12B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 13A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses a refrigerant as a cooling medium.

[0035] Figure 13B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 14A This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses a refrigerant as a cooling medium.

[0037] Figure 14B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section of a battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for rendering hydrogen sulfide generated from a battery harmless using a battery-based harmless treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Symbol Explanation 10 vehicles 11. Body 20. Battery Decontamination Device 201 Battery Decontamination Device 202 Battery Decontamination Device 203 Battery Decontamination Device 21 Battery Pack 22 battery cells 221 battery cell 222 battery cell 23 Battery pack casing 24. Operation and Control Department 25. Testing Department 28. Refrigerant 29 Cooling water 30. Media Flow Section 31 Spacer 311 Web section 312 Wing Edge 313 Wing Edge 314 Media Flow Section 315 Media Flow Section 33 Cooling medium 34 Cooling water circuit 35 Medium Cooling Section 36 Refrigeration Cycle 37 Condenser 38 Evaporator 39 Cooler 40 batteries 41 Radiator 42 Refrigerant Flow Channel 421 Refrigerant Flow Channel 422 Refrigerant Flow Channel 423 Refrigerant Flow Channel 424 Refrigerant Flow Channel 425 Refrigerant Flow Channel 426 Refrigerant Flow Channel 427 Refrigerant Flow Channel 428 Refrigerant Flow Channel 429 Refrigerant Flow Channel 4210 Refrigerant Flow Channel 4211 Refrigerant Flow Channel 4212 Refrigerant Flow Channel 4213 Refrigerant Flow Channel 4214 Refrigerant Flow Channel 4215 Refrigerant Flow Channel 43 Cooling water channel 431 Cooling water channel 432 cooling water channel 433 cooling water channel 434 cooling water channel 435 cooling water channel 436 cooling water channel 437 cooling water channel 438 cooling water channel 439 cooling water channel 4310 cooling water channel 44 Heat transfer sheet 45 Compressor 46 Expansion valve 471 Switching Valve 472 Switching Valve 473 Switching valve 474 Switching Valve 481 Three-way valve 482 Three-way valve 483 Three-way valve 484 Three-way valve 49 Fluid Pumps 50 Water Cooling Section Detailed Implementation

[0040] Hereinafter, the battery decontamination device 20 and the vehicle 10 according to embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the directions front, back, up, down, left, and right are used, with left and right referring to left and right when viewed from the front of the vehicle 10. Furthermore, in the following description, the same reference numerals will be used to label the same parts in principle, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a side view of a vehicle 10 equipped with a battery decontamination device 20.

[0042] Vehicle 10 is, for example, a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle), HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). In this embodiment, vehicle 10 mainly includes a body 11, a battery pack 21, and a battery decontamination device 20.

[0043] The battery pack 21 is formed by housing multiple battery cells 22 within the battery pack housing 23. (See reference...) Figure 2A The details of the battery pack 21 will be described later. In the vehicle 10, the vehicle body 11 is driven by rotating a motor using electricity generated from the battery unit 22.

[0044] The battery desulfurization device 20 is configured to desulfurize hydrogen sulfide when it is generated inside the battery pack 21. The battery desulfurization device 20 mainly includes a medium flow section 30, a medium cooling section 35, a detection section 25, and a calculation and control section 24.

[0045] The medium flow section 30 is configured to be disposed between the battery cells 22 containing sulfides, and the cooling medium 33, described later, flows through the medium flow section 30. (See reference...) Figure 2A The details of the medium flow section 30 will be described later.

[0046] The medium cooling section 35 is configured to cool the cooling medium 33. (Refer to...) Figure 4A The details of the medium cooling section 35 will be described later.

[0047] The detection unit 25 is configured to detect hydrogen sulfide generated from the battery cell 22. The detection unit 25 can be a device that directly detects the generation of hydrogen sulfide, such as a hydrogen sulfide sensor disposed inside the battery pack housing 23 (described later). Alternatively, the detection unit 25 can be a device that indirectly detects the generation of hydrogen sulfide, such as a device that measures the temperature, deformation, or collision of the battery cell 22 (described later).

[0048] The arithmetic control unit 24 is composed of semiconductor components such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The arithmetic control unit 24 may also include semiconductor storage devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or ROM (Read Only Memory) as a storage unit. This storage unit stores programs, parameters, etc. Based on the programs, parameters, etc., read from the storage unit, the arithmetic control unit 24 executes the functions and methods described later. In this embodiment, as described later, if hydrogen sulfide is detected by the detection unit 25, the arithmetic control unit 24 causes the cooling medium 33, cooled by the medium cooling unit 35, to circulate in the medium flow unit 30, thereby rendering the hydrogen sulfide harmless.

[0049] Figure 2A This is a top view showing the battery pack 21 being decontaminated using the battery decontamination device 20.

[0050] The battery pack 21 mainly includes battery cells 22 and a battery pack housing 23.

[0051] A solid-state battery is used as the battery cell 22. Here, the battery cells 22 are arranged in a matrix along the left-right and front-back directions. A solid-state lithium-ion battery is used as the battery cell 22, and this solid-state lithium-ion battery uses a sulfide-based solid electrolyte. In this case, during the charge-discharge cycle of the battery, hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery cell due to moisture mixed in or remaining inside the battery cell during the battery cell manufacturing process, and it is possible that hydrogen sulfide will leak out of the battery cell 22 for some reason. In this embodiment, as will be described later, by generating condensation inside the battery pack casing 23, the hydrogen sulfide melts in the condensation water generated by the condensation, thereby rendering the hydrogen sulfide harmless.

[0052] The battery pack housing 23 is, for example, a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The battery cells 22 and the dielectric passage 30 are housed inside the battery pack housing 23. The interior of the battery pack housing 23 is a generally sealed space.

[0053] A dielectric flow section 30 is disposed between the battery cells 22. Here, the dielectric flow section 30 is disposed between the battery cells 22 in a left-right direction. The dielectric flow section 30 has the function of lowering the surface temperature of the dielectric flow section 30 and causing condensation on its surface when hydrogen sulfide is generated from the battery cells 22. Furthermore, by being disposed between the battery cells 22, the dielectric flow section 30 has the function of absorbing the expansion and contraction of the battery cells 22 during charging and discharging. In addition, the dielectric flow section 30 has the function of mitigating vibrations and shocks transmitted to the battery cells 22 by absorbing externally input vibrations and shocks. Various shapes can be adopted as the cross-section of the dielectric flow section 30. (Refer to...) Figure 2B The following diagrams will describe this matter.

[0054] The front and rear ends of the medium flow section 30 are connected to the medium cooling section 35. As described later, the medium cooling section 35 is a part that cools the cooling medium 33 flowing inside the medium flow section 30.

[0055] Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view showing the medium flow section 30 of the battery decontamination device 20. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A cross-sectional view at section line AA. Here, in battery cell 22, adjacent battery cells 221 and 222 are shown.

[0056] Here, a spacer 31 with an H-shaped cross-section is used as the medium flow section 30. The medium flow section 30 is configured as a hollow structure, allowing the cooling medium 33 to flow inside. The spacer 31 is made of metals such as iron or stainless steel, considering thermal conductivity. Specifically, the spacer 31 has a web portion 311, a flange portion 312, and a flange portion 313. The flange portion 312 is elongated in the vertical direction and abuts against the right side of the battery cell 221. The flange portion 313 is elongated in the vertical direction and abuts against the left side of the battery cell 222. The web portion 311 is the part that connects the approximate center portion of the flange portion 312 in the vertical direction to the approximate center portion of the flange portion 313 in the vertical direction.

[0057] Here, since the spacer 31 also serves as the medium flow section 30, the increase in the number of components can be suppressed, and the hydrogen sulfide can be rendered harmless as described later. Furthermore, by giving the medium flow section 30 an H-shaped cross-section, the surface area of ​​the medium flow section 30 can be increased, and a large amount of condensation can be generated. Additionally, as described later, the upper portion of the spacer 31 can be used as a part for storing condensed water containing molten hydrogen sulfide.

[0058] Figure 3AThis is a cross-sectional view showing another configuration of the medium flow section 314. Here, the medium flow section 314 has a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape. By making the cross-sectional shape of the medium flow section 314 generally rectangular, the area where the battery cells 221 and 222 abut against the two sides of the medium flow section 314 can be increased. Here, the medium flow section 314 is also hollow, allowing the cooling medium 33 to flow within it.

[0059] Figure 3B This is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the medium flow section 315. Here, the medium flow section 315 has a generally hexagonal cross-sectional shape. By making the cross-section of the medium flow section 315 generally hexagonal, it is possible to allow the side surfaces of the medium flow section 315 facing each other in the left-right direction to abut against the side surfaces of the battery cells 221 and 222. Here, the medium flow section 315 is also hollow, allowing the cooling medium 33 to flow through it.

[0060] Reference Figures 4A to 6B The battery decontamination device 20, which is configured to use a radiator 41 and a cooling cycle 36 to cool the battery 40, will be described.

[0061] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The structure and operation of the battery decontamination device 20 are shown in the case where hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40. Figure 5A and Figure 5B This illustrates that in the battery decontamination device 20, under normal conditions where no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40, the cooling cycle 36 is activated and the battery 40 is cooled by the cooling water flow channel 43, thus facilitating the battery's configuration and operation. Figure 6A and Figure 6B This illustrates that in the battery decontamination device 20, under normal conditions where no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40, the cooling cycle 36 is activated and the cooler 39 is used to cool the battery 40 and its configuration and operation.

[0062] Figure 4A This is a block diagram illustrating the operation of a battery decontamination device 20 that uses cooling water 29 as the cooling medium 33 when hydrogen sulfide is generated. Figure 4B This is a cross-sectional view showing the battery cell 22 and the spacer 31.

[0063] Reference Figure 4A The configuration of the battery decontamination device 20 will be described. The battery decontamination device 20 includes a cooling water circuit 34 and a refrigeration cycle 36. Furthermore, in the battery decontamination device 20, the cooling water circuit 34 serves as the medium cooling section 35. This allows the cooling water 29 flowing through the medium cooling section 35 to be cooled... Figure 4B The flow is in the spacer 31 shown.

[0064] The cooling water circuit 34 includes a cooler 39 serving as a heat exchanger, a battery 40, a radiator 41, a fluid pump 49, and a cooling water flow channel 43. The cooling water circuit 34 is configured to cool the interior of the battery pack housing 23 via a spacer 31 using cooling water 29 flowing through the cooling water flow channel 43. Here, a pipe can be used as the cooling water flow channel 43.

[0065] Cooler 39 is a heat exchanger that cools cooling water 29 by exchanging heat between the refrigerant 28 used in refrigeration cycle 36 and cooling water 29 used in cooling water circuit 34.

[0066] The radiator 41 is a device that cools the cooling water 29 by exchanging heat between the cooling water 29 flowing inside it and the external air.

[0067] Reference to the structure of battery 40 Figure 2A As mentioned above.

[0068] A fluid pump 49 is installed in the cooling water passage 433, described later, to generate pressure for circulating the cooling water 29 within the cooling water passage 43. Specifically, the fluid pump 49 generates pressure in the middle section of the cooling water passage 433 to cause the cooling water 29 to flow from the cooling water passage 433 to the cooling water passage 432 or the cooling water passage 434.

[0069] The battery 40, radiator 41, and cooler 39 are interconnected via a cooling water flow channel 43, which serves as a piping. The cooling water flow channel 43 has cooling water flow channels 431 to 4310, and is the path through which cooling water 29 circulates.

[0070] Cooling water channels 431, 432, 434, and 435 are paths connecting the cooler 39 to the radiator 41. Cooling water channel 433 is a path connecting the connection between cooling water channels 432 and 434 to the battery 40. Cooling water channels 436, 437, 439, and 4310 are paths connecting the cooler 39 to the radiator 41. Cooling water channel 438 is a path connecting the connection between cooling water channels 437 and 439 to the battery 40.

[0071] Three-way valves 481 and 482, which switch the flow direction of cooling water 29, are installed in the cooling water circuit 34.

[0072] Three-way valve 481 is a valve installed at the connection of cooling water flow channel 432, cooling water flow channel 434 and cooling water flow channel 433. When hydrogen sulfide is generated, three-way valve 481 switches the flow of cooling water 29 flowing from cooling water flow channel 433 to cooling water flow channel 432.

[0073] Three-way valve 482 is a valve installed at the connection of cooling water flow channels 437, 439, and 438. When hydrogen sulfide is generated, three-way valve 482 switches the flow of cooling water 29 flowing from cooling water flow channel 437 to cooling water flow channel 438.

[0074] Refrigeration cycle 36 is a refrigerant circuit. Specifically, refrigeration cycle 36 is a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle, which includes a compressor 45, a condenser 37, an expansion valve 46, and an evaporator 38. In addition, refrigeration cycle 36 is also connected to a cooler 39.

[0075] The compressor 45, condenser 37, expansion valve 46, evaporator 38, and cooler 39 are interconnected via a refrigerant flow channel 42, which serves as a pipeline. The refrigerant flow channel 42 has refrigerant flow channels 421 to 4210. A refrigerant 28 used in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle 36 flows through the interior of the refrigerant flow channel 42. Examples of refrigerants used for the refrigerant 28 include ammonia, hydrocarbons, and carbon dioxide.

[0076] Details of refrigerant flow path 42 are described below. Refrigerant flow paths 421, 422, 423, and 424 connect the compressor 45 to the cooler 39. Refrigerant flow path 425 connects the connection between refrigerant flow paths 422 and 423 to the evaporator 38. Refrigerant flow path 426 connects the compressor 45 to the condenser 37. Refrigerant flow path 429 connects the condenser 37 to the expansion valve 46. Refrigerant flow paths 4210 and 428 connect the expansion valve 46 to the cooler 39. Refrigerant flow path 427 connects the connection between refrigerant flow paths 4210 and 428 to the evaporator 38.

[0077] Switching valves 471, 472, 473 and 474 are provided in the refrigerant flow channel 42.

[0078] Switching valve 471 is a valve installed in refrigerant flow channel 425. Switching valve 472 is a valve installed in refrigerant flow channel 427. Switching valves 471 and 472 are linked to the operation of the air conditioning unit that regulates the air in the passenger compartment. That is, when the passenger compartment air conditioning unit is on, switching valves 471 and 472 are open, and refrigerant 28 flows in the evaporator 38. On the other hand, when the passenger compartment air conditioning unit is off, switching valves 471 and 472 are closed, and refrigerant 28 does not flow in the evaporator 38.

[0079] Switching valve 473 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 423. Switching valve 474 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 4210. Switching valves 473 and 474 are normally closed when hydrogen sulfide is not generated, and refrigerant 28 is not supplied to cooler 39. When hydrogen sulfide is generated, switching valves 473 and 474 are open, and refrigerant 28 is supplied to cooler 39.

[0080] The path of refrigerant 28 in refrigerant channel 42 is as follows.

[0081] Specifically, when the air conditioner in the passenger compartment is on, switching valves 471 and 472 are open. Refrigerant 28 is compressed by compressor 45 and sent to refrigerant channel 426. Refrigerant 28, condensed by heat dissipation from condenser 37, is sent to expansion valve 46 via refrigerant channel 429. Refrigerant 28, expanded by expansion valve 46, is sent to evaporator 38 via refrigerant channel 4210, switching valve 472, and refrigerant channel 427. Refrigerant 28, evaporated by heat in evaporator 38, returns to compressor 45 via refrigerant channel 425, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 422, and refrigerant channel 421.

[0082] Additionally, a portion of the refrigerant 28 that expands in expansion valve 46 is delivered to cooler 39 via refrigerant channel 4210, switching valve 474, and refrigerant channel 428. The refrigerant 28, having cooled the cooling water 29 of cooling water circuit 34 in cooler 39, returns to compressor 45 via refrigerant channel 424, switching valve 473, refrigerant channel 423, refrigerant channel 422, and refrigerant channel 421.

[0083] In the event of hydrogen sulfide generation, the cooling water 29 flows through the cooling water channel 43 as follows: In this case, the three-way valve 481 switches to allow the cooling water 29 to flow from the cooling water channel 433 to the cooling water channel 432. Additionally, the three-way valve 482 switches to allow the cooling water 29 to flow from the cooling water channel 437 to the cooling water channel 438. Furthermore, the fluid pump 49 operates.

[0084] Specifically, firstly, the cooling water 29, cooled by the refrigeration cycle 36 in the cooler 39, flows into the battery 40 via cooling water channels 436, 437, three-way valve 482, and 438. Through... Figure 4B The cooling water 29 that flows through the spacer 31 and cools the battery 40 returns to the cooler 39 via the fluid pump 49, cooling water channel 433, three-way valve 481, cooling water channel 432 and cooling water channel 431.

[0085] Reference Figure 4B Inside the battery 40, cooling water 29 circulates inside the spacer 31. As a result, when hydrogen sulfide is generated from the battery cell 22, condensation occurs on the surface of the spacer 31. The hydrogen sulfide is rendered harmless by melting the condensation.

[0086] Figure 5A This is a block diagram illustrating the operation when cooling water 29 cooled by radiator 41 is used as the cooling medium 33 under normal conditions where no hydrogen sulfide is generated. Figure 5B This is a cross-sectional view showing the battery cell 22 and the spacer 31.

[0087] Reference Figure 5A Switching valves 471 and 472 of refrigeration cycle 36 are in the open state. Switching valves 473 and 474 of refrigeration cycle 36 are in the closed state. In cooling water circuit 34, three-way valve 481 switches the flow of cooling water 29 from cooling water channel 434 to cooling water channel 433. Three-way valve 482 switches the flow of cooling water 29 from cooling water channel 438 to cooling water channel 439. Fluid pump 49 operates.

[0088] The following explains how the operation of the battery-powered harmless device 20 for switching valves was changed.

[0089] In refrigeration cycle 36, refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 426, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 429, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 4210, switching valve 472, refrigerant channel 427, evaporator 38, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 425, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421, and compressor 45. This refrigeration cools the passenger compartment of vehicle 10. The specific operation of refrigeration cycle 36 is described in reference [reference needed]. Figure 4A As explained.

[0090] In the cooling water circuit 34, the cooling water 29 circulates in the following order: battery 40, cooling water channel 438, three-way valve 482, cooling water channel 439, cooling water channel 4310, radiator 41, cooling water channel 435, cooling water channel 434, three-way valve 481, cooling water channel 433, fluid pump 49, and battery 40. Thus, the cooling water 29 dissipates heat in the radiator 41 and absorbs the temperature of the battery 40, thereby cooling the battery 40.

[0091] Reference Figure 5B Inside the battery 40, cooling water 29, cooled by the heat sink 41, circulates inside the spacer 31. This effectively cools battery cells 221 and 222.

[0092] Figure 6A This is a block diagram illustrating the operation of the battery decontamination device 20 when, under normal conditions, no hydrogen sulfide is generated, cooling water 29 cooled by cooler 39 is used as the cooling medium 33. Figure 6B This is a cross-sectional view showing the battery cell 22 and the spacer 31.

[0093] Reference Figure 6A Switching valves 471 and 472 of refrigeration cycle 36 are in the open state. Additionally, switching valves 473 and 474 of refrigeration cycle 36 are in the open state. Furthermore, in cooling water circuit 34, three-way valve 481 switches the flow of cooling water 29 from cooling water channel 433 to cooling water channel 432. Three-way valve 482 switches the flow of cooling water 29 from cooling water channel 437 to cooling water channel 438.

[0094] The following explains how the operation of the battery-powered harmless device 20 for switching valves was changed.

[0095] In refrigeration cycle 36, refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 426, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 429, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 4210, switching valve 472, refrigerant channel 427, evaporator 38, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 425, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421, and compressor 45. This refrigeration cools the passenger compartment of vehicle 10. The specific operation of refrigeration cycle 36 is described in reference [reference needed]. Figure 4A As explained.

[0096] Furthermore, in the refrigeration cycle 36, a portion of the refrigerant 28 that has passed through the expansion valve 46 flows through the refrigerant channel 4210, the switching valve 474, the refrigerant channel 428, the cooler 39, the refrigerant channel 424, the refrigerant channel 423, the switching valve 473, the refrigerant channel 422, and the refrigerant channel 421.

[0097] In the cooling water circuit 34, the cooling water 29 circulates in the following order: cooler 39, cooling water channel 436, cooling water channel 437, three-way valve 482, cooling water channel 438, battery 40, fluid pump 49, cooling water channel 433, three-way valve 481, cooling water channel 432, cooling water channel 431, and back to cooler 39. Thus, the cooling water 29 is cooled by the refrigerant 28 of the refrigeration cycle 36 in cooler 39 and cools the battery cells 22 in battery 40.

[0098] Reference Figure 6B Inside the battery 40, cooling water 29, cooled by the cooler 39, circulates inside the spacer 31. This effectively cools battery cells 221 and 222.

[0099] Reference Figures 7A to 9B The battery decontamination device 201, which is configured to cool the battery 40 using a refrigeration cycle 36, will be described.

[0100] Figure 7A and Figure 7B The structure and operation of the battery decontamination device 201 are shown in the case where hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40. Figure 8A and Figure 8B The configuration and operation of the battery 40 are shown in the battery decontamination device 201, under normal circumstances when no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40, without cooling the battery 40. Figure 9A and Figure 9B The battery decontamination device 201 shows that, under normal conditions where no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40, the battery 40 is cooled by a cooling cycle 36 to cool its structure and operation.

[0101] Figure 7A This is a block diagram showing the structure and operation of the battery decontamination device 201 in the event that hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40. Figure 7B This is a cross-sectional view showing the battery cell 22 and the spacer 31 in this state.

[0102] Reference Figure 7A The battery harmless disposal device 201 includes a compressor 45, a condenser 37, an expansion valve 46, an evaporator 38, and a battery 40.

[0103] The refrigerant flow path 42 is configured to interconnect the various devices constituting the battery disposal device 201. The refrigerant flow path 42 includes refrigerant flow paths 421 to 4212. Refrigerant flow paths 421, 422, 423, and 424 are paths connecting the compressor 45 to the battery 40. Refrigerant flow path 429 is a path connecting the connection between refrigerant flow paths 422 and 423 to the evaporator 38. Refrigerant flow path 4211 is a path connecting the compressor 45 to the condenser 37. Refrigerant flow paths 428 and 4212 are paths connecting the condenser 37 to the expansion valve 46. Refrigerant flow paths 427, 426, and 425 are paths connecting the expansion valve 46 to the battery 40. The refrigerant flow path 4210 is the path that connects the refrigerant flow path 427 and the refrigerant flow path 426 to the evaporator 38.

[0104] Switching valves 471 to 474 are provided in the refrigerant flow channel 42 of the battery decontamination device 201. Specifically, switching valve 471 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 429, and switching valve 472 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 4210. Switching valves 471 and 472 are in the open state when the air conditioning system for air conditioning the passenger compartment of vehicle 10 is turned on. Switching valve 473 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 423, and switching valve 474 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 426. Switching valves 473 and 474 are in the open state when cooling battery 40.

[0105] If hydrogen sulfide is generated inside battery 40, switching valves 473 and 474 become open. On the other hand, switching valves 471 and 472 become open when the passenger compartment air conditioner is turned on.

[0106] Inside the refrigeration cycle 36, the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4211, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 428, refrigerant channel 4212, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 427, refrigerant channel 4210, switching valve 472, evaporator 38, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421 and compressor 45.

[0107] In addition, a portion of the refrigerant 28 that has passed through the expansion valve 46 flows in the refrigerant channel 427, the switching valve 474, the refrigerant channel 426, the refrigerant channel 425, the battery 40, the refrigerant channel 424, the refrigerant channel 423, the switching valve 473, and the refrigerant channel 422.

[0108] Reference Figure 7BInside the battery 40, refrigerant 28 circulates inside the spacer 31. As a result, when hydrogen sulfide is generated from the battery cell 22, condensation occurs on the surface of the spacer 31. The hydrogen sulfide is rendered harmless by melting the condensation.

[0109] Figure 8A This is a block diagram showing the configuration and operation of the battery decontamination device 201 when no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40 under normal conditions and the battery 40 is not cooled. Figure 8B This is a cross-sectional view showing the battery cell 22 and the spacer 31 in this state.

[0110] Reference Figure 8A In order to regulate the air in the passenger compartment of vehicle 10, switching valves 471 and 472 are set to the open state. Since the battery 40 is not cooled, switching valves 473 and 474 are set to the closed state.

[0111] In the battery decontamination device 201, the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4211, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 428, refrigerant channel 4212, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 427, refrigerant channel 4210, switching valve 472, evaporator 38, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421 and compressor 45.

[0112] On the other hand, since switching valves 473 and 474 are closed, refrigerant 28 is not supplied to the battery 40 side. Therefore, refrigerant 28 does not circulate inside the spacer 31.

[0113] Reference Figure 8B Refrigerant 28 does not circulate inside spacer 31. Therefore, battery cells 221 and 222 are not cooled by spacer 31.

[0114] Figure 9A This is a block diagram showing the configuration and operation of the battery decontamination device 201 when the battery 40 is cooled under normal conditions and no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40. Figure 9B This is a cross-sectional view showing the battery cell 22 and the spacer 31 in this state.

[0115] Reference Figure 9A In order to regulate the air in the passenger compartment of vehicle 10, switching valves 471 and 472 are set to the open state. Switching valves 473 and 474 are also set to the open state to cool the battery 40.

[0116] In the battery decontamination device 201, the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4211, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 428, refrigerant channel 4212, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 427, refrigerant channel 4210, switching valve 472, evaporator 38, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421 and compressor 45.

[0117] In addition, a portion of the refrigerant 28 that has passed through the expansion valve 46 flows in the refrigerant channel 427, the switching valve 474, the refrigerant channel 426, the refrigerant channel 425, the battery 40, the refrigerant channel 424, the refrigerant channel 423, the switching valve 473, and the refrigerant channel 422.

[0118] Reference Figure 9B Inside the battery 40, the refrigerant 28 circulates within the spacer 31. This cools the battery cells 221 and 222.

[0119] Reference Figures 10A to 12B The battery decontamination device 202, which is configured to use a cooling water circuit 34 and a refrigeration cycle 36 to cool the battery 40, will be described.

[0120] Figure 10A and Figure 10B The structure and operation of the battery decontamination device 202 are shown in the case where hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40. Figure 11A and Figure 11B The battery decontamination device 202 shows that, under normal conditions where no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40, the cooling cycle 36 is activated and the battery 40 is cooled by the cooling water flow channel 43. Figure 12A and Figure 12B This illustrates that in the battery decontamination device 202, under normal conditions where no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40, the cooling cycle 36 is activated and the battery 40 is cooled via the cooler 39, thus facilitating its configuration and operation.

[0121] Reference Figure 10A The configuration of the battery decontamination device 202 will be described. The battery decontamination device 202 has a refrigeration cycle 36 and a cooling water circuit 34 as a medium cooling section 35.

[0122] The refrigeration cycle 36 includes the constituent devices that constitute the refrigeration cycle. Specifically, the refrigeration cycle 36 includes a compressor 45, a condenser 37, an expansion valve 46, and an evaporator 38. In addition, a cooler 39 and a battery 40 are connected to the refrigeration cycle 36.

[0123] The components constituting the refrigeration cycle 36 are connected via refrigerant channels 42. Specifically, refrigerant channels 421, 422, 423, 4211, and 4212 connect the compressor 45 to the battery 40. Refrigerant channel 425 connects the connection between refrigerant channels 422 and 423 to the evaporator 38. Refrigerant channel 424 connects the connection between refrigerant channels 423 and 4211 to the cooler 39. Refrigerant channel 4215 connects the compressor 45 to the condenser 37. Refrigerant channel 426 connects the condenser 37 to the expansion valve 46. Refrigerant channels 429, 4210, 4213, and 4214 connect the expansion valve 46 to the battery 40. Refrigerant flow path 427 is the path that connects the middle section of refrigerant flow path 429 to evaporator 38. Refrigerant flow path 428 is the path that connects the connection between refrigerant flow path 4210 and refrigerant flow path 4213 to cooler 39.

[0124] Switching valves 471 to 474 are provided in refrigerant flow channels 42. Switching valve 471 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 425, switching valve 472 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 427, switching valve 473 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 423, and switching valve 474 is installed in refrigerant flow channel 4210. In addition, three-way valves 483 and 484 are installed in refrigerant flow channels 42. Three-way valve 483 is located at the connection points of refrigerant flow channels 423, 4211, and 424. Three-way valve 484 is located at the connection points of refrigerant flow channels 4210, 428, and 4213.

[0125] Cooling water circuit 34 is a circuit in which cooling water 29 circulates between fluid pump 49, radiator 41, battery 40 and cooler 39.

[0126] The devices constituting the cooling water circuit 34 are connected via cooling water channels 43. Specifically, cooling water channels 431, 432, 434, and 435 are paths connecting the cooler 39 to the radiator 41. Cooling water channel 433 is a path connecting the connection between cooling water channels 432 and 434 to the battery 40. Cooling water channels 436, 437, 439, and 4310 are paths connecting the cooler 39 to the radiator 41. Cooling water channel 438 is a path connecting the connection between cooling water channels 437 and 439 to the battery 40. Additionally, a fluid pump 49 is installed in the cooling water channel 433.

[0127] Three-way valves 481 and 482 are provided in the cooling water flow channel 43. Three-way valve 481 is provided at the connection of cooling water flow channels 432, 433 and 434. Three-way valve 482 is provided at the connection of cooling water flow channels 437, 438 and 439.

[0128] In the event of hydrogen sulfide formation inside battery 40, the states of the valves are as follows: Switching valves 471 and 472 are open when the passenger compartment air conditioner is activated. Switching valves 473 and 474 are also open. The three-way valve 483 of the cooling water circuit 34 is switched to allow refrigerant 28 to flow from refrigerant channel 4211 to refrigerant channel 423. The three-way valve 484 is switched to allow refrigerant 28 to flow from refrigerant channel 4210 to refrigerant channel 4213. Additionally, fluid pump 49 is not operating.

[0129] In the refrigeration cycle 36, the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4215, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 426, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 472, refrigerant channel 427, evaporator 38, refrigerant channel 425, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421 and compressor 45.

[0130] Additionally, in the refrigeration cycle 36, a portion of the refrigerant 28 is used to cool the battery 40. Specifically, a portion of the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4215, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 426, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 474, refrigerant channel 4210, three-way valve 484, refrigerant channel 4213, refrigerant channel 4214, battery 40, refrigerant channel 4212, refrigerant channel 4211, three-way valve 483, refrigerant channel 423, switching valve 473, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421, and compressor 45.

[0131] Figure 10B This is a cross-sectional view showing the spacer 31, water cooling section 50, and battery cell 22, which serve as the medium cooling section 35. Here, the spacer 31 and water cooling section 50 are used as the path for the flow of the cooling medium 33. The spacer 31 is the path for the flow of the refrigerant 28, and the water cooling section 50 is the path for the flow of the cooling water 29.

[0132] A heat transfer plate 44 is disposed between the lower surface of the battery cell 221 and the upper surface of the battery pack housing 23. Similarly, a heat transfer plate 44 is also disposed between the lower surface of the battery cell 222 and the upper surface of the battery pack housing 23. The heat transfer plate 44 is made of a material with excellent thermal conductivity, such as metal.

[0133] Water cooling sections 50 are respectively provided on the lower surface of the battery pack housing 23, corresponding to the lower parts of battery cells 221 and 222. The water cooling sections 50 are rectangular pipes arranged in close contact with the lower surface of the battery pack housing 23. In other words, the water cooling sections 50 are disposed on the outside of the battery pack housing 23. The water cooling sections 50 are thermally bonded to the battery cells 221 and 222 via the battery pack housing 23 and the heat transfer plate 44. One end of the water cooling section 50 is connected to... Figure 10A The cooling water channel 433 is connected at one end, and the other end is connected to the cooling water channel 438.

[0134] Inside the battery 40, refrigerant 28 circulates inside the spacer 31. As a result, when hydrogen sulfide is generated from the battery cell 22, condensation occurs on the surface of the spacer 31. The hydrogen sulfide is rendered harmless by melting the condensation.

[0135] Figure 11A The battery decontamination device 202 shows that, under normal conditions where no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40, the cooling cycle 36 is activated and the battery 40 is cooled by the cooling water circuit 34. Figure 11B This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the cooling battery cell 22 in this state.

[0136] Reference Figure 11A The states of each valve are described below. Switching valves 471 and 472 are in the open state when the passenger compartment air conditioner is activated. Switching valves 473 and 474 are in the closed state. Since refrigerant 28 is not flowing, the state of three-way valve 483 is arbitrary. Since refrigerant 28 is not flowing, the state of three-way valve 484 is arbitrary. Three-way valve 481 of the cooling water circuit 34 switches the flow of cooling water 29 from cooling water channel 434 to cooling water channel 433. Three-way valve 482 switches the flow of cooling water 29 from cooling water channel 438 to cooling water channel 439. Fluid pump 49 operates.

[0137] In the refrigeration cycle 36, the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4215, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 426, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 472, refrigerant channel 427, evaporator 38, refrigerant channel 425, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421 and compressor 45.

[0138] In the cooling water channel 43, the cooling water 29 circulates in the following order: fluid pump 49, cooling water channel 433, battery 40, cooling water channel 438, three-way valve 482, cooling water channel 439, cooling water channel 4310, radiator 41, cooling water channel 435, cooling water channel 434, three-way valve 481, cooling water channel 433, and fluid pump 49.

[0139] Reference Figure 11B The cooling water 29, cooled by the radiator 41, circulates inside the water cooling section 50. Thus, the cooling water 29 circulating in the water cooling section 50 cools the battery cells 221 and 222 via the heat transfer plates 44.

[0140] Figure 12A This is a block diagram showing the configuration and operation of the battery decontamination device 202, in which the cooling cycle 36 is activated and the battery 40 is cooled via the cooler 39 when no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40 under normal conditions. Figure 12B This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the cooling battery cell 22 in this state.

[0141] Reference Figure 12A The states of each valve are described below. Switching valves 471 and 472 are in the open state when the passenger compartment air conditioner is activated. Switching valves 473 and 474 are also in the open state. Three-way valve 483 switches the flow of refrigerant 28 from refrigerant channel 424 to refrigerant channel 423. Three-way valve 484 switches the flow of refrigerant 28 from refrigerant channel 4210 to refrigerant channel 428. Since cooling water 29 does not flow inside the cooling water circuit 34, the switching method of three-way valves 481 and 482 in the cooling water circuit 34 is arbitrary. Fluid pump 49 is not operating.

[0142] In the refrigeration cycle 36, the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4215, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 426, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 472, refrigerant channel 427, evaporator 38, refrigerant channel 425, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421 and compressor 45.

[0143] Furthermore, in the refrigeration cycle 36, a portion of the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4215, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 426, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 474, refrigerant channel 4210, three-way valve 484, refrigerant channel 428, cooler 39, refrigerant channel 424, three-way valve 483, refrigerant channel 423, switching valve 473, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421, and compressor 45.

[0144] Furthermore, in the cooling water circuit 34, the cooling water 29 circulates in the following sequence: fluid pump 49, cooling water channel 433, three-way valve 481, cooling water channel 432, cooling water channel 431, cooler 39, cooling water channel 436, cooling water channel 437, three-way valve 482, cooling water channel 438, battery 40, cooling water channel 433, and fluid pump 49. By operating in this way, the cooling water 29 in the cooling water circuit 34 can be cooled in the cooler 39 using the refrigerant 28 of the refrigeration cycle 36. The cooled cooling water 29 is then sent to the battery 40.

[0145] Reference Figure 12B The cooling water 29, cooled by the cooler 39, circulates inside the water cooling section 50. Thus, the cooling water 29 circulating in the water cooling section 50 cools the battery cells 221 and 222 via the heat transfer plates 44.

[0146] Reference Figures 13A to 14B The battery decontamination device 203, which is configured to cool the battery 40 by using a refrigeration cycle 36 and a radiator 41, will be described. Figure 13A and Figure 13B The structure and operation of the battery decontamination device 203 are shown in the case where hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40. Figure 14A and Figure 14B This illustrates the operation of the battery decontamination device 203 under normal conditions where no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40.

[0147] Figure 13A The structure of the battery decontamination device 203 shown is similar to... Figure 7A The battery decontamination device 201 shown is substantially the same. The battery decontamination device 203 shown here is... Figure 7A The battery decontamination device 201 shown includes an additional section for cooling the battery 40 using a heat sink 41. The heat sink 41 is connected to the battery 40 via refrigerant channels 4213 and 4214. A fluid pump 49 is installed in the refrigerant channel 4214.

[0148] in addition, Figure 13B The cross-sectional structure shown is consistent with the reference. Figure 10A The descriptions are identical in structure.

[0149] Reference Figure 13A and Figure 13B The operation of the battery decontamination device 203 in the event that hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40 will be explained. Figure 13A This is a block diagram illustrating the situation. Figure 13B This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the situation.

[0150] Reference Figure 13A The states of each valve in the event that hydrogen sulfide is generated inside battery 40 are explained. With the passenger compartment air conditioner on, switching valves 471 and 472 are open. Switching valves 473 and 474 are also open. Furthermore, fluid pump 49 is not operating.

[0151] Inside the refrigeration cycle 36, the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4211, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 428, refrigerant channel 4212, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 427, refrigerant channel 4210, switching valve 472, evaporator 38, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421 and compressor 45.

[0152] In addition, a portion of the refrigerant 28 that has passed through the expansion valve 46 flows in the refrigerant channel 427, the switching valve 474, the refrigerant channel 426, the refrigerant channel 425, the battery 40, the refrigerant channel 424, the refrigerant channel 423, the switching valve 473, and the refrigerant channel 422.

[0153] Reference Figure 13B Inside the battery 40, refrigerant 28 circulates inside the spacer 31. As a result, when hydrogen sulfide is generated from the battery cell 22, condensation occurs on the surface of the spacer 31. The hydrogen sulfide is rendered harmless by melting the condensation.

[0154] Reference Figure 14A and Figure 14B The operation of the battery decontamination device 203 under normal conditions, in which no hydrogen sulfide is generated inside the battery 40, will be explained. Figure 14A This is a block diagram illustrating the situation. Figure 14B This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the situation.

[0155] Reference Figure 14A With the air conditioner in the carriage on, switching valves 471 and 472 are in the open position, while switching valves 473 and 474 are in the closed position. Additionally, fluid pump 49 is operating.

[0156] Inside the refrigeration cycle 36, the refrigerant 28 circulates in the following order: compressor 45, refrigerant channel 4211, condenser 37, refrigerant channel 428, refrigerant channel 4212, expansion valve 46, refrigerant channel 427, refrigerant channel 4210, switching valve 472, evaporator 38, refrigerant channel 429, switching valve 471, refrigerant channel 422, refrigerant channel 421 and compressor 45.

[0157] In addition, the cooling water 29 pressurized and delivered by the fluid pump 49 flows in the order of refrigerant channel 4214, battery 40, refrigerant channel 4213, radiator 41, and fluid pump 49.

[0158] Reference Figure 14B By circulating cooling water 29 inside the water cooling section 50, the battery cells 221 and 222 can be cooled via the battery pack housing 23 and the heat transfer plate 44.

[0159] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for rendering hydrogen sulfide generated from battery cell 22 harmless.

[0160] In step S10, vehicle 10 is set to its normal state. For example, refer to... Figure 1 The vehicle 10 is put into a driving state by using the power generated from the battery pack 21 to drive the motor and use the motor to rotate the wheels.

[0161] In step S11, the arithmetic control unit 24 determines whether hydrogen sulfide is detected. Specifically, using... Figure 1 The detection unit 25 shown determines whether hydrogen sulfide is generated from the battery cell 22. It can detect hydrogen sulfide inside the battery pack housing 23 directly or indirectly. In the case of direct detection, a hydrogen sulfide sensor, serving as the detection unit 25, is installed inside the battery pack housing 23, and the calculation control unit 24 determines the presence of hydrogen sulfide based on the output of the hydrogen sulfide sensor. In the case of indirect detection, a device that generates data such as the temperature of the battery cell 22, the amount of deformation, or a collision with the vehicle 10 is used as the detection unit 25. For example, the calculation control unit 24 determines that hydrogen sulfide has been generated if the temperature or deformation of the battery cell 22 exceeds a threshold.

[0162] If step S11 is true, that is, if hydrogen sulfide is detected, the operation control unit 24 proceeds to step S12.

[0163] If step S11 is negative, that is, if no hydrogen sulfide is detected, the operation control unit 24 returns to step S10.

[0164] In step S12, the arithmetic control unit 24 determines whether condensation can occur inside the battery pack housing 23. Specifically, refer to... Figure 1The calculation and control unit 24 measures the moisture content and temperature inside the battery pack housing 23, as well as the lower limit temperature of the cooling medium 33 in the medium flow section 30. Humidity can be measured using a hygrometer installed inside the battery pack housing 23, and the moisture content of the battery pack housing 23 can be calculated based on this humidity. The temperature of the battery pack housing 23 is measured using a thermometer installed inside the battery pack housing 23. The calculation and control unit 24 can pre-store the lower limit temperature of the cooling medium 33 as a performance parameter for the battery decontamination device 20. Next, based on the moisture content and temperature inside the battery pack housing 23, and the lower limit temperature of the cooling medium 33 in the medium flow section 30, the calculation and control unit 24 determines whether the moisture content in the air inside the battery pack housing 23 can reach saturation water vapor levels to produce condensation.

[0165] If step S12 is yes, that is, if condensation can occur inside the battery pack housing 23, the operation control unit 24 proceeds to step S14.

[0166] If step S12 is not true, that is, if condensation cannot be generated inside the battery pack housing 23, the operation control unit 24 proceeds to step S13.

[0167] In step S13, the arithmetic control unit 24 generates an environment inside the battery pack housing 23 that reaches a saturated water vapor level. For example, by introducing external gas into the battery pack housing 23, the moisture content inside the battery pack housing 23 is increased. Additionally, by introducing internal vehicle gas into the battery pack housing 23, the moisture content inside the battery pack housing 23 is increased. Furthermore, the temperature of the cooling medium 33 is lowered relative to the internal temperature of the battery pack housing 23. By performing these actions, an environment reaching a saturated water vapor level can be generated inside the battery pack housing 23.

[0168] In step S14, the arithmetic control unit 24 cools the interior of the battery pack housing 23. Specifically, by referring to... Figure 4A , Figure 7A , Figure 10A and Figure 13A The method described herein is used to cool the interior of the battery pack housing 23. As a result, the air temperature around the spacer 31 inside the battery pack housing 23 decreases, the air moisture content around the spacer 31 inside the battery pack housing 23 reaches saturation water vapor level, and condensation forms on the surface of the spacer 31.

[0169] In step S15, for example, referring to Figure 4BCondensation occurs on the surface of the spacer 31 inside the battery pack housing 23. Since the spacer 31 has an H-shaped cross-section, the condensation collects in the concave area formed at the top of the spacer 31. Furthermore, because hydrogen sulfide is denser than air, it can also collect at the top of the spacer 31. By dissolving the hydrogen sulfide in the condensation, the hydrogen sulfide inside the battery pack housing 23 is rendered harmless.

[0170] The technical concepts and effects that can be grasped from the above-described embodiments will be described below.

[0171] The battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a medium flow section disposed between battery cells containing sulfides, wherein a cooling medium flows through the medium flow section; a medium cooling section for cooling the cooling medium; a detection section for detecting the generation of hydrogen sulfide from the battery cells; and an operational control section, which, if the detection section detects the generation of hydrogen sulfide, causes the cooling medium cooled by the medium cooling section to flow through the medium flow section. According to an embodiment of the present invention, if the detection section detects the generation of hydrogen sulfide from a solid-state battery, the cooled medium is allowed to flow through the medium flow section. This causes condensation to form on the surface of the medium flow section, and the hydrogen sulfide dissolves in the condensation, thereby suppressing the diffusion of hydrogen sulfide. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the adverse effects of hydrogen sulfide on occupants.

[0172] Furthermore, in the battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the medium flow section is characterized by being a spacer disposed between the battery cells. According to an embodiment of the present invention, since the spacer also serves as the medium flow section, the increase in the number of components can be suppressed, and hydrogen sulfide can be decontaminated.

[0173] Furthermore, in the battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the medium cooling section is characterized as a refrigerant circuit through which refrigerant used in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle flows. According to an embodiment of the present invention, by utilizing refrigerant to cool the medium flow section, condensation can be effectively generated around the medium flow section.

[0174] Furthermore, in the battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the cooling medium is characterized by being cooling water, and the medium cooling section is a cooling water circuit that includes a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between the refrigerant used in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle and the cooling water, and allows the cooling water to circulate. According to an embodiment of the present invention, condensation can be effectively generated around the medium circulation section using a simple configuration.

[0175] Furthermore, in the battery decontamination device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the medium flow section is characterized by having an H-shaped cross-section. According to an embodiment of the present invention, by having an H-shaped cross-section, the surface area of ​​the medium flow section can be increased, and a large amount of condensation can be generated.

[0176] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited thereto and can be modified within the scope of the present invention without departing from its spirit. In addition, the foregoing embodiments can be combined with each other.

Claims

1. A battery decontamination device, characterized in that, have: A medium flow section is disposed between battery cells containing sulfides, and a cooling medium flows through the inside of the medium flow section. A medium cooling section that cools the cooling medium; The detection unit detects hydrogen sulfide generated from the battery cell; as well as Computation and control unit, If the detection unit detects the generation of hydrogen sulfide, the operation control unit causes the cooling medium, which has been cooled by the medium cooling unit, to circulate in the medium flow section.

2. The battery decontamination device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The medium flow section is a spacer disposed between the battery cells.

3. The battery decontamination device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The medium cooling section is a refrigerant circuit through which refrigerant used in vapor compression refrigeration cycles flows.

4. The battery decontamination device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling medium is cooling water. The medium cooling section is a cooling water circuit that includes a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between the refrigerant used in a vapor compression type refrigeration cycle and the cooling water, and allows the cooling water to circulate.

5. The battery decontamination device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The medium flow section has an H-shaped cross-section.

Images