System for detecting incompatible fluids for battery cooling

Abstract

An immersion cooling system for a battery of an electric vehicle. The immersion cooling system includes a non-compatible fluid detection system configured to detect the presence of a non-compatible fluid within a fluid loop of the immersion cooling system. The non-compatible fluid can include a non-dielectric fluid that has entered or accumulated within the fluid loop, as well as a dielectric fluid that has been contaminated or is reaching (if not already reached) the end of its life. In response to determining that a non-compatible fluid is present in the fluid loop, a notification can be generated to alert an operator of the detection of the non-compatible fluid. In addition, the system can take action to at least isolate the battery from the non-compatible fluid, including closing a valve(s), deactivating a pump, and / or opening a bypass loop(s), among other actions.

Description

Cross-reference of related technologies

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 440,514, filed February 13, 2024, entitled “Detection System for Incompatible Fluids in Battery Cooling,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to immersion liquid cooling of batteries, and more specifically, to a system for detecting incompatible fluids in at least a portion of an immersion liquid cooling system for one or more batteries in an electric vehicle. Background Technology

[0003] Battery systems in electric vehicles, including hybrid electric vehicles, can utilize active heating and cooling systems that help maintain one or more batteries in the electric vehicle at or near certain operating temperatures. Such heating and cooling systems can help maintain the temperature at which the electric vehicle's batteries(s) are charged and discharged at certain current levels, including discharging at current levels that can support or satisfy various functions of the electric vehicle.

[0004] One way to transfer heat from a battery is through immersion cooling. With immersion cooling (including partial and full immersion cooling), the battery cells can be in direct contact with a cooling liquid. Therefore, the cooling liquid used for immersion cooling is typically a non-conductive liquid, also known as a dielectric coolant. Such dielectric coolants can be, or may include, oils whose viscosity can change with the temperature of the dielectric coolant. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure may include one or more of the following features and combinations thereof.

[0006] In one embodiment of this disclosure, an immersion cooling system is provided for cooling a battery and having an incompatible fluid detection system. The immersion cooling system may include: a fluid circuit configured to circulate a coolant to the battery; and a plurality of sensors configured to sense at least one or more properties of the coolant; at least one processor; and a first sensor of the plurality of sensors located within a coolant reservoir of the immersion cooling system. The immersion cooling system may further include a memory device connected to the at least one processor. The memory device may include instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause one or more of the at least one processor to: determine the presence of an incompatible fluid in the fluid circuit based at least on information provided by the plurality of sensors; and, in response to the determination of the presence of the incompatible fluid, generate one or more signals to facilitate adjustment of the flow path of the incompatible fluid within the fluid circuit, thereby isolating the battery from the incompatible fluid.

[0007] In another embodiment, an immersion cooling system is provided for cooling a battery and having an incompatible fluid detection system. The immersion cooling system may include: a fluid circuit configured to circulate a cooling liquid to the battery; at least one processor; and a memory device connected to the at least one processor. The memory device may include instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause one or more of the at least one processor to: determine the presence of an incompatible fluid in the fluid circuit, and, in response to the determination of the presence of the incompatible fluid, generate one or more signals to facilitate adjustment of the flow path of the incompatible fluid within the fluid circuit, thereby isolating the battery from the incompatible fluid.

[0008] In another embodiment of this disclosure, a method is provided for detecting the presence of an incompatible fluid within a fluid loop of an immersion cooling system for a battery of an electric vehicle. The method may include: monitoring one or more properties of a fluid within the fluid loop using a plurality of sensors, at least one of the sensors being located within a coolant reservoir of the immersion cooling system. The method may further include: using at least information from the monitored one or more properties to detect that at least a portion of the fluid in the fluid loop contains an incompatible fluid. The method may further include: generating one or more signals in response to detecting the incompatible fluid to facilitate adjustment of the flow path of at least the incompatible fluid within the fluid loop, thereby isolating the battery from the incompatible fluid.

[0009] These and other features of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The disclosure contained herein is illustrated by way of example rather than limitation in the accompanying drawings. For the sake of simplicity and clarity, the elements illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated relative to others for clarity. Furthermore, where appropriate, reference numerals are repeated in the drawings to indicate corresponding or similar elements.

[0011] Figure 1 A simplified block diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary incompatible fluid detection system for an immersion cooling system of one or more batteries in an electric vehicle is illustrated.

[0012] Figure 2 A simplified block diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary incompatible fluid detection system for an immersion cooling system of one or more batteries in an electric vehicle is illustrated.

[0013] Figure 3 A simplified block diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary incompatible fluid detection system for an immersion cooling system of one or more batteries in an electric vehicle is illustrated.

[0014] Figure 4 A simplified block diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary incompatible fluid detection system for an immersion cooling system of one or more batteries in an electric vehicle is illustrated.

[0015] Figure 5 An exemplary method is illustrated for operating an incompatible fluid detection system for use in one or more immersion-cooled batteries in an electric vehicle.

[0016] Throughout multiple views, use corresponding reference numerals to indicate the relevant parts. Detailed Implementation

[0017] While the concept of this disclosure is readily adaptable to various modifications and alternatives, specific embodiments thereof have been illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the concept of this disclosure to the specific forms disclosed, but rather, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives consistent with this disclosure and the appended claims.

[0018] References to "an embodiment," "embodiment," and "illustrative embodiment" in the specification indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic; however, each embodiment may or may not include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it should be acknowledged that those skilled in the art can influence such feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not. Furthermore, it should be understood that items included in the list in the form of "at least one A, B, and C" can represent: (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (A and C); (B and C); or (A, B, and C). Similarly, items listed in the form of "at least one of A, B, or C" can represent: (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (A and C); (B and C); or (A, B, and C).

[0019] In the accompanying drawings, some structural or methodological features may be shown in a specific arrangement and / or order. However, it should be understood that such a specific arrangement and / or order may not be necessary. Rather, in some embodiments, these features may be arranged in a different manner and / or order than shown in the illustrative drawings. Furthermore, including structural or methodological features in a particular figure does not mean that such features are required in all embodiments, and in some embodiments, such features may not be included or may be combined with other features.

[0020] Many of the features described below may be illustrated with dashed lines in the accompanying drawings. The dashed lines depicting certain features are intended to convey that these features may be hidden or present in one or more embodiments, but not necessarily in other embodiments. Furthermore, in embodiments where these features may be present, the dashed lines illustrating these features are intended to convey that these features may have multiple locations and / or orientations different from those shown.

[0021] The embodiments of this disclosure described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit this disclosure to the precise forms described in the following detailed description. Rather, these embodiments were chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may understand and comprehend the principles and practice of this disclosure.

[0022] Embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to an incompatible fluid detection system for an immersion cooling system of one or more batteries in an electric vehicle. The system can be configured to detect (including identify) the presence of incompatible fluids in a fluid loop, including detecting incompatible fluids in or containing coolant in at least a portion of the fluid loop. Determining whether the coolant is incompatible or contains incompatible fluids can be based on one or more properties, conditions, or characteristics of at least a portion of the coolant within the fluid loop. For example, according to some embodiments, an incompatible fluid may correspond to the presence of a non-dielectric coolant in at least a portion of the coolant in the fluid loop, such as including a mixture of non-dielectric coolants or their presence in at least a portion of a dielectric coolant. Additionally or alternatively, the detected incompatible fluid may correspond to dielectric coolant that has deteriorated and / or become contaminated, such as by leaching of multiple chemicals from components of the fluid loop into the dielectric coolant or other dispersions. Furthermore, such loss or contamination of the dielectric coolant in the fluid loop can correspond to degradation or adverse effects on one or more properties of the dielectric coolant, which may negatively impact, for example, the electrical conductivity or thermal transfer properties of the dielectric coolant, as well as other properties. Additionally, information about one or more such properties of the dielectric coolant can provide information on whether the dielectric coolant is approaching and / or has reached the end of its lifespan in relation to the effectiveness, usefulness, and / or safety of immersion cooling of one or more batteries in an immersion cooling system. Such information regarding one or more properties of the coolant can also be analyzed online or offline, including analyses of coolant degradation over time, premature aging of the coolant, the performance of the associated thermal management system or a combination thereof, and others.

[0023] Another aspect of the incompatible fluid detection system is the generation of a notification, including an alarm, in response to the detection of an incompatible fluid in the fluid loop. The generated notification can be transmitted via an output device of the electric vehicle and / or to the battery management system (BMS). Additionally or alternatively, the generated notification can be transmitted via an output device of a secondary device, including, for example, a secondary device remote from the electric vehicle. Such notification can be transmitted in various ways, including visual, auditory, and / or tactile means, and any combination thereof.

[0024] The incompatible fluid detection system can also be configured to take one or more actions in response to the detection of an incompatible fluid in the fluid circuit. According to some embodiments, one or more actions may occur automatically in response to the detection of an incompatible fluid. Additionally or alternatively, one or more actions may be taken by an operator in response to receiving the aforementioned generated notification. The operator may include, for example, the owner, service personnel, or user of the electric vehicle, as well as other individuals or workers (generally referred to herein as "operator"). As discussed below, such actions may include isolating the flow of the incompatible fluid from the battery(s), for example, by bypassing the flow of the incompatible fluid. Additionally or alternatively, one or more actions may involve removing or discharging the incompatible fluid from the fluid circuit.

[0025] Figure 1 A simplified block diagram of a first embodiment of an exemplary incompatible fluid detection system 100 for an immersion cooling system 102 is illustrated. The immersion cooling system 102 can be configured to cool at least one or more batteries 104 of an electric vehicle via immersion cooling. Furthermore, the illustrated immersion cooling system 102 is configured to circulate a coolant in the form of a dielectric coolant through one or more conduits 108 between components or devices of a fluid circuit 106 of the immersion cooling system 102, said one or more conduits 108 including conduits, hoses, or pipes and / or combinations thereof, and any associated fittings and connectors. Various different types of dielectric coolants can circulate around the fluid circuit 106 as coolants, including but not limited to mineral oil and various commercially available dielectric thermal fluids and other dielectric coolants. Additionally, the immersion cooling system 102 can be configured for partial or full immersion liquid cooling of one or more battery cells of the battery 104.

[0026] like Figure 1 As seen, the immersion cooling system 102 may include, at various locations surrounding the fluid circuit 106, a coolant reservoir 110 for the dielectric coolant, a pump 116, a battery 104, and associated piping 108 and fittings. However, in addition to those components or devices shown and discussed herein, the immersion cooling system 102 may also include a variety of other components or devices, including but not limited to heaters, radiators, filters, control valves and / or pressure relief valves and combinations thereof, as well as other components of the immersion cooling system used with at least the battery of an electric vehicle.

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the immersion cooling system 102 is shown to include a heat exchanger 112 fluidly connected to both the fluid loop 106 and the secondary loop 114 of the immersion cooling system 102. While the immersion cooling system 102 may include one or more heat exchangers located at various locations around the fluid loop 106, and heat exchangers of different types, the illustrated heat exchanger 112 is a liquid-liquid type heat exchanger, at least for the purposes of discussion. Thus, according to the illustrated embodiment, heat entrained in the cooling liquid (and more specifically, dielectric cooling liquid) located in the fluid loop 106 output from the battery 104 can be transferred at the heat exchanger 112 to another type of cooling liquid, referred to herein as the secondary cooling liquid, which circulates through at least one or more pipes 111 of the secondary loop 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary loop 114 is shown to include a secondary reservoir 118 which can at least temporarily store excess secondary cooling liquid. However, secondary circuit 114 may include various other components, including but not limited to pumps, control valves, pressure relief valves and / or filters, and combinations thereof, as well as other components. Furthermore, secondary circuit 114 may be connected to another heat exchanger, or secondary circuit 114 may be otherwise configured to accommodate the release or transfer of at least a portion of the heat transferred at heat exchanger 112 to the secondary cooling liquid, such that the secondary cooling liquid is received in heat exchanger 112 at least at a temperature that facilitates heat transfer from the dielectric cooling liquid in fluid circuit 106 to the secondary cooling liquid at heat exchanger 112.

[0028] According to the illustrated embodiment, the secondary coolant can be a non-dielectric coolant, such as, for example, glycerol and / or a water-based coolant. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, fluid circuit 106 and secondary circuit 114 are configured to prevent secondary coolant from entering fluid circuit 106 and further from circulating to or through battery 104. However, one or more components of fluid circuit 106 and / or secondary circuit 114, including heat exchanger 112, hoses or pipes and / or associated connectors, may potentially fail, be damaged, or not properly connected to associated pipes 108, 111, or fittings in a manner that allows at least some non-dielectric secondary coolant to enter the dielectric coolant within fluid circuit 106, thereby contaminating the dielectric coolant. In this case, the circulation of contaminated coolant, including both dielectric coolant and incompatible fluids in the form of non-dielectric secondary coolant, within fluid circuit 106 may cause the incompatible fluid to enter battery 104 and come into contact with one or more battery cells. In such an example, since the incompatible fluid present in at least a portion of the coolant is not a dielectric fluid and, more specifically, is conductive, such contact between the incompatible fluid and one or more battery cells could facilitate a dangerous electrical short circuit in battery 104. Such an electrical short circuit within battery 104 could not only damage (if not destroy) battery 104 but also damage the electric vehicle, for example, by promoting fire in at least a portion of the electric vehicle. However, as discussed herein, in the event that an incompatible fluid (such as a non-dielectric secondary coolant) enters or is otherwise introduced into the dielectric coolant circulating around fluid loop 106, the incompatible fluid detection system 100 is configured to detect the presence of the incompatible fluid and isolate the incompatible fluid and / or contaminated coolant from battery 104. As discussed below, according to certain embodiments, such isolation of the incompatible fluid may, for example, include bypassing the flow of the incompatible fluid so that the incompatible fluid does not flow into battery 104.

[0029] Coolant reservoir 110 may be configured to at least temporarily store dielectric coolant for fluid circuit 106, including excess coolant. To the extent necessary, coolant reservoir 110 may help replenish at least a portion of the dielectric coolant circulating through at least conduit 108 of fluid circuit 106. Additionally or alternatively, to the extent required, coolant reservoir 110 may also provide an outlet for the flow (including overflow) of coolant or associated gases that may be present at least occasionally within at least a portion of the immersion cooling fluid circuit 106 when the coolant is heated or superheated.

[0030] like Figure 1As seen, the coolant reservoir 110 may include an inlet 120 and an outlet 122. The outlet 122 may be connected to a supply conduit 108a or other portion of the fluid circuit 106, allowing coolant to flow out of the coolant reservoir 110 and into a downstream portion of the fluid circuit 106. The inlet 120 may provide a location where at least dielectric coolant can be supplied, added to, or replenished to the fluid circuit 106. Thus, for example, an operator of an electric vehicle may introduce or supply dielectric coolant to the fluid circuit 106 through the inlet 120 of the coolant reservoir 110.

[0031] The inlet 120 of the coolant reservoir 110 may also provide a location for introducing incompatible fluids or other contaminants into the fluid loop 106 (including into the dielectric coolant). For example, inlet 120 may provide a location where an operator may inadvertently introduce a non-dielectric or conductive coolant or other incompatible fluid into the coolant and / or fluid loop 106. In a particular, non-limiting example, instead of adding secondary coolant to the coolant reservoir 110 of the secondary loop 114, an operator may mistakenly add secondary coolant to the coolant reservoir 110 for the coolant in the fluid loop 106, which is also intended to contain dielectric coolant. In another example, a service worker may not recognize that the immersion cooling system 102 is intended to use dielectric coolant and may therefore incorrectly add non-dielectric coolant to the coolant reservoir 110 for the coolant in the fluid loop 106.

[0032] Incompatible fluids can also be introduced into the coolant and / or fluid circuit 106 in various ways other than through the inlet 120 of the coolant reservoir 110 for the coolant. For example, in some cases, a non-dielectric coolant in the form of water can be introduced into the coolant of the fluid circuit 106 of the immersion cooling system 102, such as in the form of condensate accumulated within the immersion cooling system 102, or through intrusions along seals, connectors, and / or pipes 108 of the fluid circuit 106, and other means. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the dielectric coolant in the coolant may transform into an incompatible fluid over time due to leaching of one or more chemicals or compositions from components of the fluid circuit 106, and / or due to the degradation of the dielectric coolant, including degradation associated with the start and / or end of the dielectric coolant's lifespan.

[0033] Various types of pumps or combinations of pumps can be used for pump 116 in the fluid circuit 106 of the immersion cooling system 102. As discussed below, at least certain types of pumps 116 can be configured to help isolate detected incompatible fluids to prevent circulation or flow to the battery 104. For example, fluid passage through a positive displacement pump and other types of pumps can depend at least in part on the operation of the mechanical structure of the positive displacement pump. Furthermore, for a linear displacement type positive displacement pump, the flow of fluid through the pump can depend at least in part on the linear displacement of the pump's piston or plunger. Alternatively, for a rotary positive displacement pump, the flow of fluid through the pump can depend at least in part on, for example, the rotational displacement of the positive displacement pump's rotating cam, gear, or pinion. Therefore, in the absence of such linear or rotational displacement in such components of a positive displacement pump, such as when the positive displacement pump is in a shut-off or deactivated state, pump 116 can prevent the passage of coolant (including coolant that may contain incompatible fluids). Therefore, for at least certain types of pumps, when the incompatible fluid detection system 100 detects the presence of an incompatible fluid in the cooling liquid and / or fluid circuit 106, deactivating the pump 116 by the incompatible fluid detection system 100 can at least help prevent (if not stop) the incompatible fluid from flowing into at least the battery 104.

[0034] Other types of pumps (such as centrifugal pumps and other types of pumps) can accommodate fluid flow through pump 116 regardless of whether pump 116 is in an on / off state or a closed state. Therefore, as at least Figures 1 to 4 As seen and discussed below, the incompatible fluid detection system 100 may include one or more valves 124, 126a-126e located at one or more locations surrounding the fluid loop 106. These valves may help isolate incompatible fluids from flowing into the battery 104, including by operating in a manner that bypasses the flow of incompatible fluids away from the battery 104. The inclusion of these valves 124, 126a-126e may depend at least in part on the type of pump(s) 116 used by the immersion cooling system 102, or alternatively independently of the type of pump(s) 116.

[0035] The incompatible fluid detection system 100 may also include one or more controllers 128 having at least one processor 130 and at least one memory device 132. The controllers 128, processor(s) 130, and / or memory devices 132 may be dedicated to or not dedicated to the operation of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 or the operation of components of the incompatible fluid detection system 100. Thus, for example, according to some embodiments, the processor 130 may include one or more processors, including computing circuitry, which may be used to control the operation of the incompatible fluid detection system 100, and optionally, may also be used in conjunction with controlling the operation of the immersion cooling system 102 and other associated cooling systems, engines, or vehicle components. Therefore, according to some embodiments, a single controller 128 (including one or more processors 130 of the controller 128) may be used to control at least the operation of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 or the operation of corresponding components of the incompatible fluid detection system 100. Alternatively, the operation of the incompatible fluid detection system 100, as well as the operation of the immersion cooling system 102 and / or different components of the electric vehicle, can be controlled using a combination of multiple controllers 128 or processors 130 including computing circuitry. Thus, for example, while some embodiments herein may refer to functions being performed by controllers 128 including associated processors 130, these functions may be performed by a single controller or processor, or alternatively, one or more functions may be performed by one or more controllers or processors, and one or more other functions may be performed by one or more other controllers or processors, or a combination of controllers or processors.

[0036] Memory device 132 may have instructions stored in the memory device that can be executed by processor 130 to cause processor 130 to receive inputs, such as from one or more sensors 134a, 134b, 134c (generally referred to herein as sensor 134), 135 (e.g., from incompatible fluid detection systems 100, 100a, 100b, 100c (generally referred to herein as incompatible fluid detection system 100)). Figures 1 to 4The processor 130 receives input and controls one or more valves 124, 126a-126e of the incompatible fluid detection system 100. The processor 130 may be embodied or otherwise include any type of processor, controller, or other computing circuitry capable of performing various tasks (e.g., computational functions) and / or controlling at least associated components of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 and / or the immersion cooling system 102. For example, the processor 130 may be embodied as (multiple) single-core or multi-core processors, microcontrollers, or other processors or processing / control circuitry. In some embodiments, the processor 130 may be embodied, included, or otherwise connected to an FPGA, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), reconfigurable hardware, or hardware circuitry or other special-purpose hardware to facilitate the execution of the functions described herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the processor 130 may be embodied or otherwise include a high-power processor, an accelerator coprocessor, or a memory controller.

[0037] Memory device 132 can be embodied as any type of volatile memory (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or non-volatile memory) capable of storing data therein. Volatile memory can be embodied as a storage medium that requires power to maintain the state of the data stored by the medium. Non-limiting examples of volatile memory can include various types of random access memory (RAM), such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or static random access memory (SRAM). One particular type of DRAM that can be used in a memory module is synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM).

[0038] In some embodiments, memory device 132 may be embodied as block-addressable memory, such as those based on NAND or NOR technology. Memory device 132 may also include next-generation non-volatile devices, such as three-dimensional crosspoint memory devices (e.g., Intel 3D XPoint). TMMemory device 132 may be embodied in or otherwise include chalcogenide glass multi-threshold NAND flash memory, NOR flash memory, single-level or multi-level phase-change memory (PCM), resistive memory, nanowire memory, ferroelectric transistor random access memory (FeTRAM), antiferroelectric memory, magnetoresistive random access memory (MRAM) incorporating memristor technology, including metal oxide-based, oxygen vacancy-based resistive memory, and bridged random access memory (CB-RAM), or spin-transfer torque (STT)-MRAM, spintronic junction-based device, magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ-based device, DW (domain wall) and SOT (spin-orbit transfer) based device, thyristor-based memory device, or a combination of any of the above, or other memory. Memory device 132 may refer to the die itself and / or the packaged memory product. In some embodiments, 3D crosspoint memory (e.g., Intel 3D XPoint) TM The memory may include a transistorless stackable cross-point architecture, in which memory cells are located at the intersection of word lines and bit lines and are individually addressable, and in which bit storage is based on changes in body resistance.

[0039] Sensors 134 and 135 of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 can detect (including measure or provide) information for deriving one or more properties of the cooling fluid within the fluid loop 106 and other parts of the immersion cooling system 102. Therefore, sensors 134 and 135 are communicatively connected to controller 128 so that information, for example including measurements obtained by sensors 134 and 136 regarding one or more properties of the cooling fluid in at least the fluid loop 106 or its associated components, can be transmitted to controller 128.

[0040] The incompatible fluid detection system 100 may use various types of sensors 134, 135, including combinations of sensors 134, 136. The number and type of sensors 134, 135 used by the incompatible fluid detection system 100 may vary for different incompatible fluid detection systems 100 and / or immersion cooling systems 102. Thus, for example, the incompatible fluid detection system 100 may include a single sensor 134, 135 or multiple sensors 134, 135. Furthermore, the locations of sensors 134, 135(multiple) may be based on various criteria, such as the architecture of the immersion cooling system 102, potential intrusion of incompatible fluids into or into the identification area of ​​the coolant and / or fluid circuit 106, and / or the associated environment or conditions in which the vehicle may operate, including but not limited to anticipated exposure to areas of water accumulation, and other considerations. In some cases, this determination of the locations of sensors 134, 135 may be based on risk assessments, such as risk assessments based on System Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (SFMEA) and other analyses.

[0041] Sensors 134 and 135 can be configured to detect various types of properties of the coolant, providing information that the incompatible fluid detection system 100 can be used to detect or not detect the presence of incompatible fluids. For example, according to some embodiments, one or more of sensors 134 and 135 may include conductivity sensors, such as, for example, electrode-type conductivity sensors, inductive conductivity sensors and / or ultrasonic conductivity sensors, and other types of conductivity sensors. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of sensors 134 and 135 can be configured to detect the presence of water in the fluid loop 106 and other parts of the immersion cooling system 102. Sensors (multiple) 134 and 135 can also be configured to detect one or more other properties of the coolant, such as, but not limited to, thermal conductivity, breakdown voltage and / or resistance, and other properties. Furthermore, in embodiments of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 including multiple sensors 134, 135, one or more sensors 134, 135 may be used or may not be used to determine properties of the coolant of the same type as those determined by one or more other sensors 134, 135 of the incompatible fluid detection system 100. Therefore, according to some embodiments, each of the multiple sensors 134, 135 may be configured to detect the same property of the coolant, or at least some (if not all) of the sensors 134, 135 may be configured to detect different properties of the coolant. Furthermore, in some cases, the multiple sensors 134, 135 configured to detect different properties of the coolant may be located in substantially the same location or area, or alternatively may be located at different locations. In the event of a failure of one or more of the sensors 134, 135, or the detection of multiple properties of a portion of the coolant containing an incompatible fluid (which may not be present in other portions of the coolant at least for now), such redundancy or multiple sensors 134, 136 at the same or different locations around the fluid loop 106 can provide further protection for the immersion cooling system 102.

[0042] Sensors 134 and 135 may be located at various locations surrounding fluid circuit 106. For example, according to some embodiments, one or more sensors 134 and 135 (including multiple sensors) may be located within coolant reservoir 110. Additionally or alternatively, one or more (if not multiple) sensors 134 may be located within coolant reservoir 110, while one or more other sensors 134 may be located in other portions of fluid circuit 106. According to other embodiments, sensors 134 may be located at one or more locations surrounding fluid circuit 106 other than coolant reservoir 110. Furthermore, according to other embodiments, at least one sensor 134 may be located at the inlet and / or outlet of battery 104, if not within a portion of battery 104. According to some such embodiments, one or more sensors 134 may be part of battery 104, for example, including a housing connected to battery 104.

[0043] According to some embodiments, one or more sensors 134 may be positioned for in-linesensing, while one or more other bypass sensors 135 may be positioned for on-line sensing. For example, regarding in-linesensing, one or more sensors 134 may be positioned to measure one or more properties of the fluid in the coolant reservoir 110 and / or battery 104 and in other portions of the fluid circuit 106, or one or more properties of the fluid flowing out of the coolant reservoir 110 and / or battery 104 and other portions of the fluid circuit 106. Regarding on-line sensing, one or more bypass sensors 135, similar to the sensors 134 discussed above, may be positioned to measure one or more properties of a portion of the fluid that is at least temporarily diverted from the fluid circuit 106. For example, Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a bypass circuit 133, in which one or more valves 137a, 137b can be selectively operated to divert at least a portion of the fluid to a bypass sensor 135, which can acquire measurements similar to those discussed above, and which can be used in conjunction with the identification of the presence of incompatible fluids. Furthermore, although Figure 1 A single bypass loop 133 is illustrated, but the incompatible fluid detection system 100 may include multiple bypass loops 133. Furthermore, the bypass loops 133 may be located at various locations, and additionally, fluid may be transferred at one or more locations surrounding the fluid loop 106.

[0044] The incompatible fluid detection system 100 may also include one or more output devices 136 communicatively connected to the controller 128 and used to provide notification to an operator or other system, such as a battery management system (BMS) of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 that detects the presence of an incompatible fluid. The type or combination of output devices 136 can vary. For example, one or more output devices 136 may be used to provide either or both of visual or auditory notifications (including alarms) regarding the detection of an incompatible fluid. The output devices 136 may also be located at various locations, such as within an operator's cab of a vehicle, within a mobile device, or at a secondary location separate from or remote from the electric vehicle, and combinations thereof. For example, according to some embodiments, the electric vehicle may be an autonomous vehicle, in which at least one output device 136 may be located at a remote location where an operator or administrator is located. Examples of mobile devices that may include output devices 136 may include, but are not limited to, smartphones, tablets, or laptops, as well as other types of mobile devices. Furthermore, the output device 136 may take various forms, including but not limited to a display 138 (such as, for example, a monitor or touch screen), a speaker 140 or a lighting device (including but not limited to lamps), and other types of output devices 136.

[0045] refer to Figure 1According to some embodiments, the incompatible fluid detection system 100 may include a drain, purge, or release valve 124 through which coolant can be purged from or otherwise released from the immersion cooling system 102. According to some embodiments, the drain valve 124 may include or be operatively connected to an actuator that can facilitate automatic displacement of the drain valve 124 from an open position to a closed position in response to one or more signals generated by the controller 128. In the open position, the drain valve 124 may allow coolant flow through the drain valve 124 and to reach downstream positions(s) in the fluid circuit 106. In the closed position, the drain valve 124 may prevent coolant flow through the drain valve 124 and / or provide an outlet for coolant to be purged, drained, or released from the fluid circuit 106. For example, according to some embodiments, when an incompatible fluid is detected in the coolant or fluid circuit 106, the controller 128 can automatically signal to activate the actuator of the drain valve 124, thereby changing the drain valve 124 from an open position to a closed position. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, when the drain valve 124 is in the closed position, the coolant in the fluid circuit 106 can be drained or released through the drain valve 124, for example, by releasing it onto adjacent ground or onto a container or vessel located below the drain valve 124. Alternatively, according to other embodiments, when the drain valve 124 is in the closed position, the operator can disconnect pipe 108 from another pipe 108, fitting, or other component, for example, by disconnecting it from the drain valve 124, to provide a location from which coolant can be released or cleared from the fluid circuit 106.

[0046] Attached to or as a replacement for the discharge valve 124, the incompatible fluid detection system 100 may further include one or more flow control valves 126a-126e ( Figures 2 to 4The one or more flow control valves 126a-126e can be used to isolate the battery 104 from the coolant, for example, by allowing the flow of coolant to bypass the battery 104. Various types of valves or combinations of valves can be used for the flow control valves 126a-126e, including but not limited to mechanical valves, electrically operated on / off valves, solenoid valves, pressure check valves, proportional valves and / or multi-port or multi-way valves and combinations thereof, as well as other types of valves. In the illustrated embodiment, one or more (if not all) of the valves 126a-126e can be communicatively connected to a controller 128 such that the controller 128 can generate one or more signals to control whether the valves 126a-126e are in an open position, a closed position, or a position between an open and closed position. Furthermore, for each valve 126a-126e, whether the valve 126a-126e is in the open or closed position can be determined at least in part based on whether information from (a plurality of) sensors 134, 135 indicates or does not indicate the presence of incompatible fluids in the cooling liquid and / or fluid circuit 106.

[0047] Valves 126a-126e can be operated to at least attempt to isolate the detected incompatible fluid from entering battery 104. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, such valves 126a-126e can also be used to at least attempt to isolate the portion of fluid circuit 106 containing the incompatible fluid from other portions of fluid circuit 106 where no incompatible fluid was detected. By isolating each of these other portions of fluid circuit 106 from the detected incompatible fluid, those uncontaminated portions of fluid circuit 106 may not need to be replaced, or may not need to be cleaned and / or removed in the same manner as other portions of fluid circuit 106 that have been contaminated by the incompatible fluid.

[0048] refer to Figures 1 to 4According to certain embodiments, the incompatible fluid detection systems 100, 100a, 100b, and 100c can be normally open or normally closed systems. For a normally open system, one or more valves 124, 126a-126e are in the open position by default to allow coolant to flow through the open valves 124, 126a-126e. Furthermore, by defaulting to the open position, the open valves 124, 126a-126e can accommodate the coolant flow through the open valves 124, 126a-126e, allowing the coolant to flow along the flow path that circulates to the battery 104. According to such an embodiment, one or more valves 124, 126a-126e can be configured by default to remain in the open position until the incompatible fluid detection system 100 detects the presence or other inclusion of an incompatible fluid in the coolant. Furthermore, for example, in response to sensors 134, 135 providing information to controller 128 indicating the presence of incompatible fluid in fluid circuit 106, controller 128 may generate one or more signals to facilitate the closure of one or more open valves 124, 126a-126e, thereby isolating battery 104 from incompatible fluid.

[0049] The decision of which open valves 124, 126a-126e to close or remain open in response to the detection of an incompatible fluid can vary. For example, according to some embodiments, each open valve 124, 126a-126e of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 may be closed in response to the incompatible fluid detection system 100 detecting the presence of an incompatible fluid anywhere in the fluid circuit 106, in order to isolate the battery 104 and at least attempt to prevent or limit contamination of other portions of the fluid circuit 106 by the incompatible fluid. Alternatively, according to some embodiments, only open valves 124, 126a-126e that can isolate contaminated portions of the fluid circuit 106 may be closed, while other valves 124, 126a-126e associated with other areas in the fluid circuit 106 where no incompatible fluid has been detected may remain open. Furthermore, as discussed below, for multi-way valves, such as, for example, three-way valves, the positions of valves 124, 126a-126e can be adjusted to close the flow path for coolant to battery 104, and instead open the flow path for coolant bypassing battery 104.

[0050] In an embodiment where the incompatible fluid detection system 100 is a normally closed system, one or more valves 124, 126a-126e of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 can be configured to be in a default closed position. In the closed position, the closed valves 124, 126a-126e can prevent coolant flow through the closed valves 124, 126a-126e, or otherwise prevent coolant flowing through the closed valves 124, 126a-126e along the flow path through which the coolant can circulate to the battery 104. In such an embodiment, the valves 124, 126a-126e, which are in the default closed position, can remain closed until the incompatible fluid detection system 100 determines that no incompatible fluid is detected or that no incompatible fluid exists in the fluid loop 106. Furthermore, in response to the controller 128 determining, based on information provided by sensors 134 and 135, that no incompatible fluid is detected in the fluid circuit 106, valves 124 and 126a-126e, which are in the closed position by default, can be opened. Additionally, according to some embodiments, the controller 128 can be configured to continuously determine, generally, that no incompatible fluid is detected in the fluid circuit 106, so that valves 124 and 126a-126e remain open. Therefore, during typical operation of the immersion cooling system 102, where the fluid circuit 106 is not contaminated by incompatible fluid, valves 124 and 126a-126e, which are in the closed position by default, can be maintained in the open position by the continuous determination of the controller 128 and by sending relevant signals to valves 124 and 126a-126e indicating that no incompatible fluid has been detected, in order to comply with the immersion cooling system 102 circulating coolant to and through the battery 104. However, if the controller 128 fails to determine or transmit a signal to the valves 124, 126a-126e, which are in the closed position by default, that no incompatible fluid has been detected in the fluid circuit 106, these open valves 124, 126a-126e may be placed in the closed position by default.

[0051] According to certain embodiments where the incompatible fluid detection system 100 is a normally closed system, which valves 124, 126a-126e (if not all) are in the default closed position can be based on various criteria, including but not limited to the architecture of the fluid circuit 106. For example, according to some embodiments, the valves in the default closed position may be one or more valves 124, 126a-126e located at or near locations or areas identified as having a higher risk of incompatible fluid intrusion into the coolant or fluid circuit 106 than other areas of the fluid circuit 106. For example, as discussed above, a potential risk area for incompatible fluid intrusion is the inlet 120 of the coolant reservoir 110. Therefore, according to some embodiments, the valves 124, 126a-126e in the default closed position may be located at or relatively close to the outlet 122 of the coolant reservoir 110. Therefore, in this example, before the valves 124, 126c near the outlet 122 of the coolant reservoir 110 will flow to other downstream locations of the fluid circuit 106, the controller 128 can confirm and continuously confirm that there is no incompatible fluid in the outlet 122 of the coolant reservoir 110 or that no incompatible fluid is passing through the outlet 122.

[0052] For valves 124, 126a-126e that are multi-port valves or multi-way valves (collectively referred to herein as multi-way valves), such as, for example, three-way valves, when in the normally open position, the multi-way valve directs coolant through the valve so that the coolant flows along a path that circulates coolant to battery 104. As discussed below, such multi-way valves may have one or more secondary open positions, wherein the multi-way valve diverts the flow of coolant to a bypass circuit or other conduit or loop configured to direct the coolant flow along a flow path that is not fluidly connected to at least battery 104. Thus, such multi-way valves can be used to isolate battery 104 from the flow of incompatible fluids by directing the flow of incompatible fluids along another flow path.

[0053] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of an incompatible fluid detection system 100 is illustrated, wherein a first sensor 134a is positioned to detect the presence of an incompatible fluid that has been added to a coolant reservoir 110. While the first sensor 134a is in Figure 1 The sensor is illustrated as being adjacent to and downstream of the coolant reservoir 110; however, according to some embodiments, the second sensor 134b may be located within the coolant reservoir 110, as previously discussed. Figure 2 What we see. Therefore, according to Figure 1 and Figure 2In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first sensor 134a and / or the second sensor 134b can provide information to the controller 128, which can use this information to detect the presence of an incompatible fluid within and / or at or around the outlet 122 of the coolant reservoir 110. In this embodiment, in response to the detection of an incompatible fluid, according to an embodiment where the incompatible fluid detection system 100 is a normally open system, the controller 128 can generate one or more signals to facilitate the closing of the drain valve 124, thereby preventing or limiting the extent to which the detected incompatible fluid can flow downstream of the coolant reservoir 110, and further, at least attempting to prevent the incompatible fluid from being circulated to at least the battery 104. Alternatively, according to an embodiment where the incompatible fluid detection system 100 is a normally closed system, the controller 128 may not generate a signal for opening the drain valve 124, which, according to this embodiment, may default to the drain valve 124 being in the closed position by default, as discussed above.

[0054] Furthermore, according to certain embodiments, Figure 1 The illustrated drain valve 124 can be configured to, when in the closed position, cause coolant containing incompatible fluids located upstream of the drain valve 124 to be automatically discharged or purged from the fluid circuit 106. This discharge of coolant containing incompatible fluids from the fluid circuit 106 can be done directly through the drain valve 124, or alternatively, through other conduits that can be fluidly connected to the drain valve 124.

[0055] Attached to or replacing discharge valve 124 or other types of valves, such as Figure 1 As shown, pump 116 can also be configured to prevent coolant (including incompatible fluids contained therein) from flowing to battery 104, as previously discussed. For example, as previously discussed, in embodiments where pump 116 is a positive displacement pump 116 and other types of pumps, deactivating pump 116 in response to the detection of incompatible fluid via one or more control signals from controller 128 can be used to prevent incompatible fluid from flowing through pump 116, thereby isolating battery 104 from incompatible fluid located upstream of pump 116.

[0056] refer to Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of the incompatible fluid detection system 100a shown herein, Figure 2 The incompatible fluid detection system 100a described herein is similar to Figure 1 The incompatible fluid detection system 100 shown is, however Figure 2 The incompatible fluid detection system 100a described herein also includes a second sensor 134b, an inlet valve 126a, and an outlet valve 126b. Therefore, Figure 2 The embodiments shown can be at least similar to those described above. Figure 1 The operation can be carried out in a discussion manner, and the battery 104 can also be isolated by operating the inlet valve 126a and the outlet valve 126b.

[0057] For example, as discussed above, similar to the above regarding... Figure 1 The incompatible fluid detection system 100 discussed, when the controller 128 detects the presence of an incompatible fluid in the fluid loop 106, for a normally open system, Figure 2 The controller 128 of the incompatible fluid detection system 100a shown can generate one or more signals to place the discharge valve 124 in the closed position. Alternatively, for normally closed systems, as discussed above, the controller 128 may not generate a signal for the discharge valve 124 when an incompatible fluid is detected, so that the discharge valve 124 defaults to the closed position by default. Additionally or alternatively, also as discussed above, the controller 128 can deactivate the pump 116.

[0058] Added to or replacing the actions discussed above regarding discharge valve 124 and pump 116, for use Figure 2 The controller 128 of the illustrated incompatible fluid detection system 100a can generate one or more signals to close the inlet valve 126a and the outlet valve 126b. Alternatively, according to an embodiment where the incompatible fluid detection system 100a is a normally closed system, the controller 128 may not generate any signals to return the inlet valve 126a and the outlet valve 126b to the closed position. Therefore, with the inlet valve 126a and the outlet valve 126b in the closed position, the battery 104 can be isolated from the detected incompatible fluid. Furthermore, placing the inlet valve 126a and the outlet valve 126b adjacent to the corresponding inlet 120 and outlet 122 of the battery 104, in addition to further aiding in the isolation of the battery 104 from the incompatible fluid, also facilitates convenient removal of the battery 104 from the immersion cooling system, including for battery replacement.

[0059] Go to Figure 3 An exemplary embodiment of the illustrated incompatible fluid detection system 100b, attached to or replacing the discharge valve 124, has a first, upstream valve 126c positioned upstream of the inlet of the pump 116. According to this embodiment, one or both of the coolant flowing from the coolant reservoir 110 and the coolant being recirculated from at least the battery 104 can pass through the inlet valve 126a before entering at least the pump 116. Therefore, with Figure 1 The exhaust valve 124 shown is similar. Figure 3The first, upstream valve 126c shown can prevent incompatible fluids that have entered the coolant and / or fluid circuit 106 via the coolant reservoir 110 from flowing to other downstream components of the fluid circuit 106, such as including at least the pump 116 and the battery 104. Figure 3 The incompatible fluid detection system 100b shown also includes the above-mentioned... Figure 3 The inlet valve 126a and outlet valve 126b are discussed.

[0060] Figure 3 The illustrated incompatible fluid detection system 100b also includes a third sensor 134c positioned downstream of the heat exchanger 112. As previously discussed, according to some embodiments, the heat exchanger 112 may be a liquid-to-liquid type heat exchanger 112, such that the heat exchanger 112 can provide a region for potential intrusion of incompatible fluids, at least in the form of a secondary cooling liquid, from the secondary loop 114 into the fluid loop 106. Thus, in this example, if incompatible fluids in the form of a secondary cooling liquid enter the fluid loop 106 at or around the heat exchanger 112, the presence of such incompatible fluids can be detected by one or more signals provided to the controller 128 by the third sensor 134c. In response to the controller 128 determining, based on information provided by the third sensor 134c, that an incompatible liquid is present in the cooling liquid and / or fluid circuit 106, the controller 128 may issue one or more signals that may promote the closure of a second, downstream valve 126d, which may be located downstream of the liquid-liquid heat exchanger 112, for example, at or around the outlet of the liquid-liquid heat exchanger 112. Furthermore, the second, downstream valve 126d may be located between the liquid-liquid heat exchanger 112 and other components of the fluid circuit 106 (e.g., including the pump 116 and other components) to minimize the portion of the fluid circuit 106 that may be contaminated by the presence of incompatible fluids. Furthermore, according to an embodiment where the incompatible fluid detection system 100b is a normally closed system, in response to the controller 128 detecting the presence of an incompatible fluid based on information provided by the third sensor 134c, the controller 128 may stop providing signals to the second downstream valve 126d, so that the second downstream valve 126d returns to its default closed position.

[0061] According to certain embodiments of the incompatible fluid detection system 100b discussed herein, which includes multiple sensors 134a, 134b, 134c, the presence of an incompatible fluid is determined by a controller 128 via information provided by one of the sensors 134a, 134b, 134c, which may facilitate the opening or closing of multiple valves 124, 126a-126e of the incompatible fluid detection system 100b, and combinations thereof. For example, in response to the controller 128 determining the presence of an incompatible fluid using information from a third sensor 134c, the controller 128 may issue one or more signals to facilitate the closing of a second, downstream valve 126d, and the closing of one or more (if not all) of a first, upstream valve 126c, inlet valve 126a, or outlet valve 126b, and any combination thereof. Therefore, in this example, although the presence of an incompatible fluid may be detected downstream of battery 104, and this incompatible fluid can be isolated from battery 104 by closing the second, downstream valve 126d, other valves 124, 126a, 126b, 126c, and 126e can also be closed to ensure that battery 104 is isolated from any incompatible fluid in fluid circuit 106. Additionally or alternatively, as discussed below, fluid circuit 106 may include one or more bypass circuits 144, 148, and 152. Figure 4 This is to allow coolant that has not been detected to include or contain incompatible fluids to continue to be circulated to battery 104 in order to at least help maintain or reduce the temperature of battery 104 (including battery cells) until the temperature of battery 104 is reduced to a level at which the cessation of coolant flow to battery 104 may cause limited (if any) damage to battery 104.

[0062] Figure 4 A fourth embodiment of an exemplary incompatible fluid detection system 100c is illustrated, wherein one or more valves 126a-126e are multi-way valves that can be used to divert coolant to bypass circuits 144, 148, 152, thereby isolating the battery 104 from coolant containing or containing incompatible fluids. For example, in Figure 4In the illustrated embodiment, the first upstream valve 126c may be at least a three-way valve that, when placed in a secondary open position, such as in response to a signal received by the controller 128 from information provided by one or more sensors 134a, 134b, 134c regarding the detection of incompatible fluids, can divert coolant flow to the first bypass conduit 142 of the first bypass circuit 144. According to some embodiments, the first bypass conduit 142 may be part of a coolant redirection system such that coolant is diverted from the first upstream valve 126c and, directly or indirectly, to a supply conduit 108a located between the coolant reservoir 110 and the first upstream valve 126c. Furthermore, according to such embodiments, one or more other valves 126e of the incompatible fluid detection system 100c may be closed to prevent backflow of incompatible fluids through the fluid circuit 106.

[0063] Additionally or alternatively, according to some embodiments, inlet valve 126a may be a multi-way valve, which may be part of another or a second bypass circuit 148. Thus, for example, in response to the detection of incompatible fluids, coolant already passed through pump 116 may be diverted by inlet valve 126a to a second bypass conduit 146 of the second bypass circuit 148. In the illustrated embodiment, the second bypass circuit 148 may recirculate coolant to a location where the coolant can again be passed through and / or pumped by pump 116. Furthermore, according to... Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, the second bypass conduit 146 may be fluidly connected to the third downstream valve 126e, which may also be a multi-way valve that can help redirect the diverted coolant back to the supply conduit 108a and / or to other locations upstream of the pump 116.

[0064] Figure 4An additional or optional third bypass circuit 152 is also illustrated, wherein the third bypass conduit 150 extends between the outlet valve 126b and the second, downstream valve 126d at or downstream of the outlet of the battery 104. According to such an embodiment, the third bypass circuit 152 can be configured to at least isolate the coolant that has passed through the heat exchanger 112 from being recirculated to the pump 116, and thus from being circulated to the battery 104. Furthermore, the third bypass circuit 152 can be configured to isolate the coolant downstream of the battery 104. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, the outlet valve 126b and the second, downstream valve 126d can each be a multi-way valve. When the third sensor 134c provides information, and the controller 128 determines from this information that an incompatible fluid is present in the fluid circuit 106, such as secondary coolant entering the coolant at or around the heat exchanger 112, the controller 128 may generate one or more signals to cause the outlet valve 126b and the second and downstream valves 126d to be respectively placed in the secondary open position. With valves 126b and 126d in the secondary open position, the second and downstream valves 126d can help divert the coolant containing the incompatible fluid that has passed through the heat exchanger 112 back to the outlet valve 126b via the third bypass pipe 150, and then flow back to the heat exchanger 112, thereby isolating the battery 104 and the rest of the fluid circuit 106 from the incompatible fluid. Alternatively, according to some embodiments, in response to the detection of incompatible fluids in other parts of the fluid loop 106, the controller 128 may place the outlet valve 126b and the second, downstream valve 126d in a secondary position so that the incompatible fluids cannot at least enter the heat exchanger 112. This isolation of the heat exchanger 112 and other components of the immersion cooling system positioned around the third bypass loop 152 from the incompatible fluids reduces the likelihood that the heat exchanger 112 must be thoroughly cleaned or even replaced, thereby ensuring complete removal of the incompatible fluids or associated residues from the heat exchanger 112.

[0065] Figure 5 An exemplary method 500 for operating an incompatible fluid detection system 100 for one or more submerged cooling batteries 104 of an electric vehicle is illustrated. The method 500 is described below in the context of being performed by the illustrated exemplary incompatible fluid detection system 100. However, it should be understood that the method 500 can also be performed by any other described embodiments and variations thereof. Furthermore, the method 500 corresponds to the following... Figure 5The execution of the boxes described in the illustrative order or otherwise is associated with the execution of the boxes. However, it should be understood that method 500 may be executed in one or more orders different from the illustrative order. Furthermore, one or more boxes mentioned below may not be executed, and method 500 may include steps or procedures other than those discussed below.

[0066] At block 502, controller 128 may combine information provided by one or more sensors 134, 135 to determine whether an incompatible fluid is detected within fluid loop 106. As previously mentioned, according to some embodiments, the presence of an incompatible fluid in fluid loop 106 may, in some cases, not be attributable to the intrusion of a non-dielectric fluid into fluid loop 106, but rather to the degradation of the existing dielectric coolant, such as reaching the end of its lifespan or being otherwise contaminated, such as by leaching chemicals from components of fluid loop 106 into the coolant. Regarding the end of lifespan, one or more properties of the coolant may be measured and evaluated, for example, by using algorithms and / or relative to corresponding thresholds, which may be a range, that can provide an indication of the coolant's usefulness or effectiveness, as well as other properties or characteristics. Furthermore, such analysis by algorithms or corresponding predetermined thresholds may indicate that the coolant has deteriorated (including decomposed) to a level indicating that the coolant has begun or reached the end of its lifespan.

[0067] Using at least the information provided by one or more sensors 134, 135, controller 128 can determine at block 504 whether an incompatible fluid is present in fluid loop 106. If controller 128 determines at block 504 that no incompatible fluid is present in fluid loop, controller 128 can continue monitoring for the presence of incompatible fluid at block 502. Furthermore, as previously discussed, according to certain embodiments in which one or more valves 124, 126a-126e of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 are in the closed position by default, controller 128 can generate one or more signals to open and / or keep these valves 124, 126a-126e open in response to controller 128 determining or continuing to determine that no incompatible fluid is present in fluid loop 106.

[0068] If controller 128 determines at block 504 that an incompatible fluid is detected in fluid loop 106, then at block 506, controller 128 may generate one or more commands to perform certain actions to at least isolate battery 104 from the detected incompatible fluid. The type and number of actions taken by controller 128 may depend at least in part on the architecture of immersion cooling system 102 and / or fluid loop 106, and / or the location where the incompatible fluid is detected. For example, as previously discussed, for some types of pump 116, deactivation of pump 116 can prevent upstream coolant flow through pump 116, which can help isolate battery 104 from the incompatible fluid. However, also as previously discussed, other types of pumps, such as centrifugal pumps, may allow coolant flow through pump 116 regardless of whether pump 116 is deactivated or shut down.

[0069] According to some embodiments, the action taken at block 504 may include closing one or more valves 124, 126a-126e of the incompatible fluid detection system 100. (As per at least...) Figures 1 to 4 As discussed, the degree to which one or more valves 124, 126a-126e (including but not limited to drain valve 124) are open can be closed in response to one or more signals from controller 128. Furthermore, as previously discussed, such closure of valves 124, 126a-126e can be used not only to attempt to isolate battery 104 from exposure to incompatible fluids, but also to isolate other components of the immersion cooling system 102 from contamination by incompatible fluids. Additionally, also as previously discussed, according to some embodiments, such isolation of battery 104 or other components of the immersion cooling system 102 from incompatible fluids can involve bypassing the flow of cooling liquid along one or more bypass loops 144, 148, 152. Furthermore, according to certain embodiments, the controller 128 of the incompatible fluid detection system 100 can determine whether one or more valves 124, 126a-126e can be closed in any way to isolate the incompatible fluid from the battery 104, while other valves 124, 126a-126e can remain open so that undetected coolant containing or having incompatible fluid can be diverted at least temporarily to further reduce the temperature of the battery 104 and further reduce the temperature of the battery cells contained in the battery 104 to a level that can minimize or prevent damage to the battery 104, which could otherwise be associated with a sudden cessation of coolant supply to the battery 104.

[0070] Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the controller 128 may also be configured to automatically perform one or more operations in response to the detection of incompatible fluids to facilitate the discharge or removal of at least the incompatible fluid from the fluid circuit 106. For example, as previously discussed, in response to the detection of incompatible fluids, the controller 128 may generate one or more signals to the discharge valve 124, which may cause the discharge valve 124 to be positioned to discharge or otherwise release at least the incompatible fluid from the fluid circuit 106.

[0071] Also Figure 5 As can be seen, in response to the detection of incompatible fluids at block 504, the controller can generate one or more signals at block 510 to facilitate the output of an alarm signal via output device 136. Although Figure 5 The illustration shows the generation of a notification via output device 136 at box 510, which is parallel to the action previously discussed at box 506. However, one of the steps associated with boxes 506 and 510 may be performed sequentially, with the step associated with box 506 occurring before the step associated with box 510, or vice versa. As previously discussed, the notification provided by the operation of output device 136 may be in the form of a visual, auditory, or tactile notification provided to the operator, or any combination thereof.

[0072] Although Figure 5 An example is provided where coolant removal occurs automatically at box 508; however, according to other embodiments, this coolant removal can be performed manually. Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As indicated by the dotted lines, according to certain embodiments, in response to a notification issued to the operator at block 510 that an incompatible fluid has been detected, the operator may manually remove or drain the coolant containing at least the incompatible fluid. For example, the operator may open a connector, fitting, pipe 108, or drain valve to drain the coolant from the fluid circuit 106. Furthermore, according to embodiments where the operator removes coolant from the fluid circuit 106 in response to notification of the detection of an incompatible fluid, the action taken at block 506 may include preventing the operator from further using the electric vehicle until the presence of the incompatible fluid in the fluid circuit 106 is resolved and further eliminated. For example, according to certain embodiments, the action at block 506 may also include automatically disabling or shutting down the associated electric vehicle motor or engine or one or more systems of the electric vehicle without prior warning, or alternatively, within a predetermined time limit, to prevent the battery 104 from overheating due to the cessation of coolant circulation to at least the battery 104.

[0073] Although the present disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the foregoing drawings and description, it should be regarded as exemplary rather than restrictive. It should be understood that only exemplary embodiments thereof have been shown and described, and it is intended that all variations and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure be protected.

Claims

1. An immersion cooling system for cooling a battery and having an incompatible fluid detection system, the immersion cooling system comprising: A fluid circuit configured to circulate cooling liquid to the battery; A plurality of sensors, the plurality of sensors being configured to sense at least one or more properties of the cooling liquid, wherein a first sensor of the plurality of sensors is located within the cooling liquid reservoir of the immersion cooling system; At least one processor; as well as A memory device connected to the at least one processor, the memory device including instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause one or more of the at least one processor to: The presence of incompatible fluids in the fluid loop is determined at least based on information provided by the plurality of sensors, and In response to the determination of the presence of the incompatible fluid, one or more signals are generated to facilitate the adjustment of the flow path of the incompatible fluid within the fluid loop, thereby isolating the battery from the incompatible fluid.

2. The immersion cooling system according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the plurality of sensors is configured to measure the electrical conductivity of the cooling liquid.

3. The immersion cooling system according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of sensors includes a second sensor located within the coolant reservoir.

4. The immersion cooling system according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of sensors includes a second sensor located downstream of the outlet of the coolant reservoir.

5. The immersion cooling system according to claim 4, wherein, The one or more signals generated by the processor at least disable the pump of the immersion cooling system, the pump being configured to prevent the incompatible fluid from flowing through the pump when the pump is disabled.

6. The immersion cooling system according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more signals generated by the processor close at least the valve positioned along the fluid loop.

7. The immersion cooling system according to claim 1, wherein, The memory device further includes an instruction, when executed by the at least one processor, to cause one or more of the at least one processor to generate one or more signals to place at least one discharge valve in a closed position, wherein, in the closed position, the discharge valve is configured to discharge at least the incompatible fluid from the fluid circuit, and wherein the plurality of sensors includes at least one bypass sensor positioned along a bypass circuit.

8. The immersion cooling system according to claim 1, wherein, The memory device further includes, when executed by the at least one processor, an instruction that causes one or more of the at least one processor to generate one or more signals to cause an output device to output a notification that the incompatible fluid is present, wherein the notification includes at least one of a visual alarm, an auditory alarm, and a tactile alarm.

9. The immersion cooling system according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more signals generated by the processor change at least one valve from an open position to a secondary open position, wherein, in the secondary open position, the at least one valve diverts the incompatible fluid to at least one bypass circuit.

10. The immersion cooling system according to claim 1, wherein, The memory device further includes instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, to cause one or more of the at least one processor to use at least information provided by at least one of the plurality of sensors to determine whether the coolant meets the coolant's end-of-life threshold, and wherein the at least one processor determines the presence of the incompatible fluid based on determining that the coolant meets the end-of-life threshold.

11. An immersion cooling system for cooling a battery and having an incompatible fluid detection system, the immersion cooling system comprising: A fluid circuit configured to circulate cooling liquid to the battery; At least one processor; as well as A memory device connected to the at least one processor, the memory device including instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause one or more of the at least one processor to: Determine the presence of incompatible fluids in the fluid loop, and In response to the determination of the presence of the incompatible fluid, one or more signals are generated to facilitate the adjustment of the flow path of the incompatible fluid within the fluid loop, thereby isolating the battery from the incompatible fluid.

12. The immersion cooling system according to claim 11, wherein, The memory device further includes instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, to cause one or more of the at least one processor to use information about one or more monitored properties of either or both of the cooling liquid and the incompatible fluid to determine the presence of the incompatible fluid in the fluid loop.

13. The immersion cooling system according to claim 11, wherein, The memory device further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause one or more of the at least one processor to perform the following operations: At least information provided by one or more measured properties of the coolant is used to determine whether the coolant meets its end-of-life threshold. The at least one processor determines the presence of the incompatible fluid based on determining that the cooling liquid meets the end-of-life threshold.

14. The immersion cooling system according to claim 11, wherein, The one or more signals generated by the processor facilitate at least one of the following: Close at least one valve positioned along the fluid circuit; The pump of the immersion cooling system is deactivated, and the pump is configured to prevent the incompatible fluid from flowing through the pump when the pump is deactivated. or Adjust at least one valve from an open position to a secondary open position, wherein, in the secondary open position, the at least one valve diverts the incompatible fluid to at least one bypass circuit.

15. The immersion cooling system according to claim 11, wherein, The memory device further includes, when executed by the at least one processor, an instruction that causes one or more of the at least one processor to generate one or more signals to cause an output device to output a notification that the incompatible fluid is present, wherein the notification includes at least one of a visual alarm, an auditory alarm, and a tactile alarm.

16. A method for detecting the presence of incompatible fluids in a fluid circuit of an immersion cooling system for a battery of an electric vehicle, the method comprising: One or more properties of the fluid within the fluid loop are monitored by multiple sensors, wherein at least one of the multiple sensors is located within the coolant reservoir of the immersion cooling system; Using information from at least one or more monitored attributes to detect that at least a portion of the fluid in the fluid loop comprises incompatible fluids; and In response to the detection of the incompatible fluid, one or more signals are generated to facilitate the adjustment of the flow path of at least the incompatible fluid within the fluid loop, thereby isolating the battery from the incompatible fluid.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, Monitoring one or more properties of the fluid includes using information from at least a first sensor and a second sensor among the plurality of sensors to monitor one or more properties of the fluid within the fluid loop, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are located within the coolant reservoir.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The one or more signals facilitate at least one of the following: (1) closing at least one valve located along the fluid circuit; (2) deactivating the pump of the immersion cooling system, the pump being configured to prevent the incompatible fluid from flowing through the pump when the pump is deactivated; Or (3) adjust at least one valve from an open position to a secondary open position, wherein, in the secondary open position, the at least one valve transfers the incompatible fluid to at least one bypass circuit.

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising using at least one or more monitored properties to determine whether the fluid meets a lifespan termination threshold. And among them, Detecting at least a portion of the fluid, including incompatible fluids, includes determining that the fluid meets a lifespan termination threshold.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising generating one or more signals to cause the output device to output a notification of detection of the incompatible fluid, wherein, The notification includes at least one of visual alarms, auditory alarms, and tactile alarms.

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