Discharge device for battery array

Abstract

A battery array is provided herein, comprising a housing having a base and sidewalls shaped to receive and accommodate individual battery cells. The battery cells within the array are assembled into cell groups, with an insulating layer disposed between each group. A silicate material sheet covers the battery cells, the silicate material sheet including a breakable portion located above each cell group. A discharge plate positioned on top of the silicate material sheet substantially surrounds the silicate material sheet between the discharge plate and the battery cells. The discharge plate is equipped with discharge channels aligned with the corresponding breakable portions of the silicate material sheet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery arrays, and more specifically, to battery arrays, battery packs, and vehicles including discharge devices for guiding fluid flow away from individual battery cells. Background Technology

[0002] Battery packs, comprising multiple individual cells, are widely used in a variety of applications, including electric vehicles and energy storage systems. These packs typically contain a large number of lithium-ion cells arranged in arrays or modules to provide the desired voltage and capacity. With the increasing demand for electric vehicles with higher energy density and longer driving range, battery packs are being designed to have more cells and higher energy capacity.

[0003] Improvements in the design and operation of high-capacity battery packs are expected. In some cases, individual battery cells may potentially generate heat and gases. If not properly managed, this heat and gas generation can lead to a cascading thermal event affecting adjacent cells, potentially compromising the integrity of the battery pack.

[0004] Traditional battery pack designs typically include basic emission mechanisms to release gases. However, these designs may be insufficient to prevent heat and gases from affecting adjacent cells or spreading to other areas of the battery pack. In densely packed arrays, the close proximity of cells can exacerbate the risk of heat propagation between cells and between modules.

[0005] Furthermore, many existing emission devices fail to provide sufficient directional control over the flow of hot air away from sensitive areas of the battery pack. This can lead to areas of heat buildup, further increasing the risk of thermal runaway events spreading to other cells or modules. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention is provided to introduce selected technical concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in the following detailed description.

[0007] In a first aspect, a battery array is provided. The battery array includes a housing and battery cells, the housing having a base and sidewalls shaped to receive and accommodate the battery cells, wherein the battery cells of the battery array are divided into groups of cells, and an insulating layer is disposed between each group of battery cells in the battery array, and wherein the battery array further includes a silicate material sheet covering the battery cells, the silicate material sheet including a frangible portion or vulnerable portion located above each group of cells, the battery array further including a discharge plate positioned on top of the silicate material sheet such that the silicate material sheet is substantially surrounded between the discharge plate and the battery cells, wherein the discharge plate includes a discharge channel aligned with a corresponding frangible portion of the silicate material sheet.

[0008] This construction provides improved thermal management for the battery array. Insulation layers between cell groups help prevent heat transfer between groups, while the fragility of the silicate sheet allows for controlled emissions. An emission plate with aligned channels further directs any emitted gases away from the cells, thereby reducing the risk of thermal runaway.

[0009] The battery array may also include an array cover positioned on top of the discharge plate such that the discharge plate is substantially surrounded between the silicate material sheet and the array cover, the array cover including holes substantially aligned with the open ends of the discharge channels of the discharge plate.

[0010] This additional layer provides further protection and controlled emissions, ensuring that any gases or materials released during a thermal event are directed away from the battery cells and away from the battery array in a predetermined manner.

[0011] The holes in the array cover can be set in the side surface of the array cover.

[0012] Positioning the holes on the side surface of the array cover allows for efficient lateral discharge, which can be advantageous in certain battery pack configurations.

[0013] Optionally, the holes in the array cover can be provided in the top surface of the array cover.

[0014] Top surface holes can be advantageous when vertical arrangement is preferred, or when the placement of the battery array within a larger system requires upward venting.

[0015] The shape of the discharge channel on the discharge plate can be adapted to guide the fluid flow away from the battery array.

[0016] This feature improves battery arrays by ensuring efficient guidance of gas or materials away from cells, reducing the risk of secondary thermal events.

[0017] The exhaust channel of the exhaust plate can be basically L-shaped.

[0018] The L-shaped design of the exhaust channel provides an effective path for gas discharge, changing the flow direction to better guide the gas away from the battery cells and toward the designated discharge area.

[0019] The position of the holes in the array cover is adapted to guide fluid flow away from the battery array.

[0020] This alignment of the orifice and the exhaust channel creates a continuous path for gas exhaust, thereby further improving the battery array.

[0021] Silicate material sheets can be mica sheets.

[0022] Mica possesses excellent thermal insulation and electrical isolation properties, making it an ideal material for this application.

[0023] The insulating layer between each group of battery cells may include silicate material.

[0024] Using silicate materials as insulating layers provides effective thermal and electrical isolation between cell groups, thereby improving the battery array.

[0025] The silicate material of the insulating layer between each group of battery cells may include mica.

[0026] The natural properties of mica make it an excellent choice for insulation between monomer groups, providing both thermal and electrical isolation.

[0027] The insulating layer between each group of battery cells can be provided between groups comprising three or four battery cells.

[0028] This grouping strategy allows for effective thermal management while maintaining an efficient overall battery array design.

[0029] Each fragile section of a silicate material sheet may include a fracture zone.

[0030] Including a fracture zone in the fragile section ensures controlled and predictable emissions, thereby improving the battery array.

[0031] In a second aspect, a battery pack comprising the battery array of the first aspect is provided.

[0032] Incorporating the battery array into the battery pack allows for the utilization of thermal management features in larger energy storage systems.

[0033] The battery pack may include a battery array, wherein the holes in the array cover are also configured to guide fluid flow away from the battery pack.

[0034] This configuration extends the improved features of a single battery array to the entire battery pack, ensuring that exhaust gases are directed away from all components of the system.

[0035] In a third aspect, a vehicle is provided that includes the battery pack of the second aspect.

[0036] Integrating the battery pack into the vehicle allows for the utilization of improved features in electric or hybrid electric vehicles, thereby improving overall vehicle performance. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the following accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A top view of a known battery discharge device according to aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0038] Figure 2 An isometric view of a battery array according to aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0039] Figures 3A to 3B An orthogonal top view of a battery array assembly in different configurations according to aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0040] Figures 4A to 4B An isometric view of an emission system for a battery array according to aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0041] Figures 5A to 5C An orthogonal top view is shown of three different vent configurations for an array housing according to aspects of this disclosure.

[0042] Figures 6A to 6D Axonometric views of different configurations of the array cover according to aspects of this disclosure are shown.

[0043] Figure 7 A side view profile of a vehicle with a battery pack according to aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0044] Common reference numerals are used throughout the accompanying drawings to indicate similar features. Detailed Implementation

[0045] The battery array 110 includes an array housing 220, which forms a shell having a base and sidewalls shaped to receive and accommodate individual battery cells. The battery array 110 may be included in a battery pack 250. Figure 2 An isometric view of the battery array 110 is shown.

[0046] The battery array 110 includes an exhaust plate 230, which is located on a silicate material sheet ( Figure 2 On the top of (not shown). The discharge plate 230 includes a plurality of discharge channels 240 arranged in a parallel configuration. These discharge channels 240 are aligned with various breakable portions of the silicate material sheet. The discharge channels 240 are depicted as elongated L-shaped structures extending across the surface of the discharge plate 230.

[0047] At the end of each discharge channel 240, an orifice 244 is visible. These orifices 244 are positioned along the edge of the discharge plate 230 and aligned with the end position of the discharge channel 240. The orifice 244 serves as an outlet location for fluid being guided through the discharge channel 240.

[0048] Array cover ( Figure 2 (Not shown) may be located on top of the discharge plate 230. The array cover includes an aperture that is substantially aligned with the open end of the discharge channel 240 of the discharge plate 230.

[0049] A battery pack 250, including a battery array 110, may be included in a vehicle. The vehicle includes the battery pack 250, which in turn includes the battery array 110 having the aforementioned emission system.

[0050] Figure 1 A top view of a known battery discharge device 101 that forms part of a battery pack 250 is shown. Figure 1 In the example shown, the battery discharge device 101 includes multiple battery arrays 102 arranged in a grid pattern, with eight arrays 102 shown in a 2×4 configuration. Although Figure 1 Eight arrays are shown, but other numbers of battery arrays 102 with different configurations can also be used. In another example, nine battery arrays can be arranged in a 3×3 configuration.

[0051] Two discharge channels 202 are provided on the right side of the battery discharge device 101. These discharge channels 202 are horizontally oriented and extend outward from the battery array 102. Flow direction arrows 204 indicate the direction of flow through the discharge channels 202 to show the movement from the battery array 102 toward the outside of the battery pack 250.

[0052] This known battery discharge device 101 can benefit from improvements. For example, the discharge channel 202 can be constructed only along one side of the device, which can enhance the discharge from the battery array furthest from the discharge channel 202. In addition, the orientation of the discharge channel 202 can be adapted to more effectively guide the gas flow away from the adjacent battery array 102.

[0053] In the event of a thermal event occurring in one of the battery arrays 102, the generated gases may need to travel through other battery arrays 102 before reaching the exhaust channel 202. This path may expose adjacent battery arrays 102 to elevated temperatures. Furthermore, the number and location of the exhaust channels 202 can be modified to provide more efficient exhaust capabilities for rapid gas removal, such as in the event of a more severe thermal event.

[0054] Improvements to this known battery discharge device 101 may include redesigning the discharge channel layout to provide a more direct discharge path to each battery array 102, thereby enabling additional thermal management features and optimizing the flow direction 204 to minimize heat transfer between battery arrays 102 during discharge events.

[0055] Figure 2 An isometric view of a battery array 110 is shown. The battery array 110 includes an array housing 220 forming the external structure of the assembly. The array housing 220 includes a base and sidewalls shaped to receive and accommodate individual battery cells. An exhaust plate 230 is disposed on the top of the array housing 220, covering the upper surface of the battery cells.

[0056] The exhaust plate 230 includes a plurality of exhaust channels 240 arranged in a parallel configuration. These exhaust channels 240 are depicted as elongated L-shaped structures extending across the surface of the exhaust plate 230. The exhaust channels 240 are raised channels designed to facilitate exhaust gas flow to the exterior of the array and battery pack. The L-shaped configuration of the exhaust channels 240 helps guide fluid flow away from the battery array 110.

[0057] At the end of each discharge channel 240, an orifice 244 is visible. These orifices 244 are positioned along the edge of the discharge plate 230 and aligned with the end position of the discharge channel 240. The orifice 244 serves as an outlet location for fluid being guided through the discharge channel 240.

[0058] The discharge plate 230 can be described as a stamped steel discharge plate to provide durability and heat resistance in the discharge system. The discharge plate 230 is positioned on a silicate material sheet ( Figure 2 On top of (not shown). A silicate material sheet covers the battery cell and includes a breakable portion located above each cell group. The discharge channel 240 in the discharge plate 230 is aligned with the respective breakable portions of the silicate material sheet.

[0059] Array cover ( Figure 2 (Not shown) It can be positioned on top of the discharge plate 230. The array cover includes holes substantially aligned with the open end of the discharge channel 240 of the discharge plate 230. These holes may be provided in the side surface or top surface of the array cover. There may be a gap between the array cover and the discharge plate 230 below it. The array cover may include valves, through holes, or flaps for discharge through it, depending on the encapsulation constraints and proximity to the battery pack discharge port.

[0060] Sealing components ( Figure 2 (Not shown) can be bolted into the assembly to create a sealed portion or channel. This sealing element can be heat-resistant and can be made using a metal rod structure with a flame-retardant coating or mica applied. The sealing element can be placed on top of the array, sealing to the top cover of the battery pack and creating a channel between the sides of the array and the sidewalls of the battery pack. The sealing element may have a pillar or support to prevent hot gases from reaching the center of the battery pack.

[0061] The discharge channel 240 is configured to allow fluid to flow from the cell clusters in the battery array 110 through the orifice 244 and out of the battery array 110. This configuration helps to efficiently guide gas flow and prevent heat transfer between arrays in the battery pack.

[0062] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe image depicts a battery array 112 without a cover and a battery array 114 including silicate sheets, illustrating the internal structure of the battery array 110. The battery array 110 includes an array housing 220 housing multiple battery cells, which are arranged into cell groups 140. Each cell group 140 is separated by an insulating layer 142 extending across the width of the array housing 220. The insulating layer 142 comprises a silicate material (specifically, mica) to provide thermal and electrical insulation between the cell groups 140.

[0063] The construction that divides the battery cells into cell groups 140 and separates them with insulating layers 142 is crucial for managing heat distribution within the battery array 110. This arrangement helps prevent heat propagation between adjacent cell groups 140, thereby improving the overall performance of the battery array 110.

[0064] exist Figure 3B The battery array 114, including the silicate sheet, also includes a silicate material sheet 150 covering the entire area within the array housing 220. The silicate material sheet 150, also made of mica, serves as an additional insulating and protective layer above the individual battery cells. Notably, the silicate material sheet 150 includes a burst region 152 located above each cell group 140. These burst regions 152 are designed as burst regions that can rupture in a controlled manner under specific conditions (e.g., excessive pressure buildup). This feature allows for the directed release of gas or pressure, further contributing to the performance of the battery array 110.

[0065] The inclusion of silicate material sheets 150 and the strategic placement of fragility zones 152 above each cell group 140 are important in improving protection against thermal events within the cell array 110. By covering the cell cells with mica sheets and including fragility zones directly above the cell groups 140, this design effectively manages and mitigates the risks associated with overheating and potential thermal runaway scenarios.

[0066] In summary, the design includes... Figures 3A to 3B The internal structure of the battery array 110 shown (where the battery array 110 is divided into individual cell groups, such as...) Figure 3A As shown, mica is used as the insulating material for insulating layer 142, and as... Figure 3B The silicate material protective sheet 150 shown has a fragility portion 152 to improve performance (e.g., thermal management and safety) within the battery pack 250. This construction ensures that each cell group 140 is both physically and thermally isolated to minimize the risk of heat transfer between cell groups and improve the operational stability of the battery array 110.

[0067] The battery array 110 includes an exhaust system designed to efficiently guide gas flow and prevent heat transfer between arrays. Figures 4A to 4B The design of the emission system, including emission guide 300, emission channel 302 and support column 308, is shown.

[0068] The discharge guide 300 may be a separate component extending along the length of the array housing 220 and located above the array housing 220. A discharge channel 302 is integrated within the discharge guide 300 and extends along the length of the discharge guide 300. At the end of the discharge guide 300, a discharge outlet 304 is visible, providing an outlet location for the discharge channel 302. The array discharge components described herein may be aligned with the discharge guide 300 such that they can discharge from the discharge outlet 304. In some examples, the discharge guide 300 may be mounted into existing battery designs that do not additionally provide a path for direct gas flow to one or more discharge outlets, thus introducing a path to guide the discharged gas to the outlet 304.

[0069] The discharge guide 300 and discharge channel 302 are designed with bends to create an L-shaped profile. This configuration positions the discharge outlet 304 in a different orientation than the main body of the discharge guide 300. The discharge channel 302 conforms to the bends to ensure continuous flow from the array housing 220 to the discharge outlet 304.

[0070] Support strut 308 extends downward from exhaust guide 300 and provides structural support and maintains the position of exhaust guide 300 relative to array housing 220. Support strut 308 can provide a seal between array housings 220, allowing gas to exit exhaust passage 302 only through exhaust port.

[0071] The discharge plate 230 of the battery array 110 includes discharge channels 240, the shape of which is designed to guide fluid flow away from the battery array 110. Similar to the construction of the discharge guide 300 and discharge channels 302, these discharge channels 240 may be substantially L-shaped. The discharge channels 240 in the discharge plate 230 can be described as raised channels designed to facilitate the flow of discharged gas to the outside of the array and battery pack.

[0072] The sealing element can be bolted into the assembly to create a sealed portion or channel. This sealing element can be heat-resistant and made using a metal rod structure with a flame-retardant coating or mica applied. The sealing element can be placed on top of the array, sealing to the top cover of the battery pack 250 and creating a channel between the sides of the array and the sidewalls of the battery pack 250.

[0073] The sealing element may extend all the way to the battery pack 250 vent or only along the top of the array. The sealing element may have a pillar or support to prevent hot gases from reaching the center of the battery pack.

[0074] In optional or additional configurations, the battery pack 250 can be vented from its top cover, and the vent guide 300 can be repositioned accordingly. This design flexibility allows for adaptation to different battery pack 250 configurations and space constraints.

[0075] The exhaust plate 230 can be described as a stamped steel exhaust plate, thus providing durability and heat resistance in the exhaust system. The overall design of the exhaust system, including the exhaust guide 300, exhaust channel 302, support pillar 308, and the exhaust plate 230, works together to efficiently guide gas away from the battery array 102 and prevent heat transfer between arrays in the battery pack 250.

[0076] Figures 5A to 5C Orthogonal top views are shown for three different vent configurations for the array housing 220. These configurations demonstrate various designs of silicate material sheets and their breakable parts, each providing unique characteristics for venting and thermal management within the battery array 110.

[0077] Figure 5A A first vent configuration 115A is shown, wherein the array housing 220 includes a first silicate material sheet 150A. The first silicate material sheet 150A extends across the array housing 220 and includes a first fracturing portion 152A. The first fracturing portion 152A takes the form of a series of wide flaps, the width of which almost entirely (e.g., 90%) covers the path spanning the width of the first silicate material sheet 150A. This configuration provides a large vent area when the flaps are open, potentially offering rapid pressure release in the event of a thermal event.

[0078] Figure 5B A second discharge port configuration 115B is depicted, wherein the array housing 220 includes a second silicate material sheet 150B. The second silicate material sheet 150B extends across the array housing 220 and includes a second fracturing portion 152B. The second fracturing portion 152B is designed as a series of narrow flaps that do not extend across the width of the second silicate material sheet 150B. This design provides more controlled emissions and potentially allows for a smoother release of pressure or gas.

[0079] Figure 5CA third discharge port structure 115C is shown, wherein the array housing 220 includes a third silicate material sheet 150C. The third silicate material sheet 150C extends across the array housing 220 and includes a third fracturing portion 152C. The third fracturing portion 152C consists of a series of fracturing orifices that cover almost the entire (e.g., 90%) of the path across the width of the third silicate material sheet 150C. This configuration provides a balance between rapid discharge and controlled release, wherein the orifices potentially open sequentially based on pressure buildup.

[0080] In each configuration, the discharge channels of the discharge plate 230 are arranged to guide flow from the interior of the array housing 220 toward the corresponding fragile sections (152A, 152B, 152C). The fragile sections can be aligned with the monomer assembly below them to ensure that any discharge occurs directly above the affected monomer.

[0081] The first silicate material sheet 150A, the second silicate material sheet 150B, and the third silicate material sheet 150C can all be made of mica to provide excellent thermal insulation and electrical isolation properties. Using mica as the material for these sheets allows for efficient thermal management within the battery array 110, while also serving as a protective layer for the individual battery cells.

[0082] The different configurations of the rupture sections (152A, 152B, 152C) provide different levels of venting capacity and control. The wide flap of the first rupture section 152A provides rapid and large-volume venting, suitable for situations requiring rapid pressure relief. The narrow flap of the second rupture section 152B provides more controlled venting, potentially useful when a smoother release of pressure or gas is desired. The rupture orifice of the third rupture section 152C provides a balance between rapid venting and controlled release, potentially allowing for staged opening of the vent based on the level of thermal events.

[0083] The fragile sections (152A, 152B, 152C) may be formed of weakened or thinned material, for example, they may be thinner sections that can break or fracture under pressure.

[0084] These different outlet configurations (115A, 115B, 115C) provide flexibility in designing the battery array 110 to meet specific performance requirements. The choice of configuration can depend on factors such as the expected thermal characteristics of the individual cells, the overall battery pack 250 design, and the intended application of the battery array 110.

[0085] Figures 6A to 6D Axonometric views of different configurations of the array cover are shown, illustrating various exhaust port arrangements. These configurations demonstrate different exhaust methods and contribute to the overall exhaust system of the battery array 110.

[0086] Figure 6A A first array cover arrangement 116A is shown, with a first array cover 160A positioned on the top of the array housing 220. The first array cover 160A includes a first top surface 162A. A first sidewall 161A extends from the array housing 220. A plurality of first holes 163A are arranged in a row along the first sidewall 161A. This configuration allows for discharge through the sides of the array cover, which can be advantageous in certain battery pack 250 layouts.

[0087] Figure 6B A second array cover arrangement 116B is depicted, in which a second array cover 160B is positioned on the top of the array housing 220. The second array cover 160B includes a second top surface 162B. A second sidewall 161B extends from the array housing 220. A top discharge channel 163B is located in the second top surface 162B. This arrangement provides discharge through the top of the array cover, which can be advantageous when side discharge is not feasible or desirable.

[0088] Figure 6C A third array cover arrangement 116C is shown, in which a third array cover 160C is positioned on the top of the array housing 220. The third array cover 160C includes a third top surface 162C. A third sidewall 161C extends from the array housing 220. A discharge groove 163C and a discharge orifice 164C are positioned in the third sidewall 161C. This configuration combines both groove and orifice discharge on the side of the array cover to potentially provide a balance between discharge capacity and controlled gas flow.

[0089] Figure 6D A fourth array cover arrangement 116D is shown, in which a fourth array cover 160D is positioned on the top of an array housing 220. The fourth array cover 160D includes a fourth top surface 162D. A fourth sidewall 161D extends from the array housing 220. A top-mounted discharge opening 163D is located in the fourth top surface 162D. Alternatively, the discharge opening 163D may also be located in the fourth sidewall 161D. This design is characterized by a large discharge opening on the top or side surface of the array cover, which provides increased discharge capacity compared to smaller orifices or slots.

[0090] In each configuration, the openings in the array cover are positioned to guide fluid flow away from the battery array 110. This positioning helps to guide emitted gases or fluids away from other components of the battery pack 250, reducing the impact on adjacent battery arrays.

[0091] In each configuration, the array cover may have a gap between the array cover and the underlying discharge plate 230. This gap serves as a plenum, allowing gas to accumulate and distribute before exiting through the orifice. The size of this gap can be adjusted based on the specific requirements of the battery array 110 to improve emission performance.

[0092] Depending on the specific emission requirements and encapsulation constraints of the battery pack 250, the array cover may include valves, orifices, or flaps for emission through which. For example, Figure 6C The discharge trough 163C can be equipped with a valve or flap mechanism to provide controlled discharge under certain conditions.

[0093] As shown in different configurations, the holes in the array cover can be provided in the side surface of the array cover (e.g. Figure 6A (like the first hole 163A in the image), or set in the top surface of the array cover (such as...). Figure 6B (Like the top exhaust trough 163B in the example). The choice between side exhaust and top exhaust can depend on factors such as the overall battery pack 250 design, space constraints, and desired exhaust characteristics.

[0094] These various array cover configurations offer flexibility in designing the emission system for the battery array 110. The choice of configuration can be based on factors such as the expected thermal behavior of the battery array 102, the overall layout of the battery pack 250, and the specific emission requirements of the application scenario. By providing multiple emission options, these configurations contribute to the performance of the overall battery emission device 101.

[0095] Figure 7 A side view of vehicle 400 is shown. Vehicle 400 includes a battery pack 250 positioned in the middle of the vehicle body. The battery pack 250 includes a battery array 110 having the improved emissions system described above.

[0096] Integrating the battery pack 250, which features an improved emissions system, into the vehicle 400 offers several advantages for vehicle performance. The battery pack 250 is designed to efficiently manage thermal events and prevent heat transfer between arrays, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the vehicle 400.

[0097] The battery array 110 within the battery pack 250 includes an array cover with perforations configured to guide fluid flow away from the battery pack 250. This configuration helps to guide exhaust gases or fluids away from other components of the vehicle 400, thereby reducing the risk of damage to adjacent systems or components in the event of a thermal accident.

[0098] Positioning the battery pack 250 in the center of the vehicle 400 provides an optimized weight distribution, contributing to better vehicle handling and performance. The compact design of the battery array 110 with its efficient emission system allows for efficient use of space within the vehicle 400, thereby maximizing energy storage capacity without compromising safety features.

[0099] The improved emissions system of the battery array 110 (including an emissions panel 230 with emissions channels 240 and an array cover with strategically arranged holes) contributes to the overall thermal management of the vehicle 400. By efficiently guiding heat and gases away from the battery array 102 and other vehicle components, the system helps maintain the operating temperature of the battery pack 250, which improves battery performance and lifespan.

[0100] Integrating the battery pack 250 and its improved emissions system into the vehicle 400 demonstrates a comprehensive approach to electric vehicle design, where safety features are seamlessly integrated into the vehicle's architecture. This integration improves the overall reliability and durability of the vehicle 400, thereby providing users with a safer and more efficient electric vehicle experience.

[0101] Features of any examples or embodiments outlined above may be combined to create additional examples or embodiments without losing the intended effect. It should be understood that the descriptions of the embodiments or examples provided above are merely exemplary, and various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that many further modifications and combinations of the aspects are possible. Therefore, the described aspects are intended to cover all such changes, modifications, and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A battery array, the battery array comprising a housing and battery cells, the housing having a base and sidewalls shaped to receive and accommodate the battery cells, wherein, The battery cells of the battery array are divided into cell groups, and an insulating layer is provided between each group of battery cells in the battery array. The battery array also includes a silicate material sheet covering the battery cells. The silicate material sheet includes a fragility portion located above each cell group. The battery array also includes a discharge plate positioned on top of the silicate material sheet, such that the silicate material sheet is substantially surrounded between the discharge plate and the battery cells. The discharge plate includes a discharge channel aligned with the corresponding fragility portion of the silicate material sheet.

2. The battery array of claim 1, further comprising an array cover positioned on top of an exhaust plate such that the exhaust plate is substantially surrounded between a silicate sheet and the array cover, the array cover including an aperture substantially aligned with an open end of an exhaust channel of the exhaust plate.

3. The battery array as described in claim 2, wherein, The holes in the array cover are located in the side surface of the array cover.

4. The battery array as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The holes in the array cover are located in the top surface of the array cover.

5. The battery array as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The shape of the discharge channel on the discharge plate is adapted to guide fluid flow away from the battery array.

6. The battery array as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The exhaust channels of the exhaust plate are basically L-shaped.

7. The battery array according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein, The positions of the holes in the array cover are designed to guide fluid flow away from the battery array.

8. The battery array as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, Silicate material sheets are mica sheets.

9. The battery array as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The insulating layer between each group of battery cells comprises silicate material.

10. The battery array of claim 9, wherein, The silicate material of the insulating layer between each group of battery cells includes mica.

11. The battery array as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, An insulating layer is provided between each group of battery cells, which consists of three or four battery cells.

12. The battery array as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, Each vulnerable section of a silicate material sheet includes a fracture zone.

13. A battery pack comprising a battery array as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A battery pack comprising the battery array of claim 7, wherein, The holes in the array cover are also configured to guide fluid flow away from the battery pack.

15. A vehicle comprising the battery pack as claimed in claim 13 or 14.

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