Reducing humidity within a battery pack

Abstract

A battery humidity reduction system for a vehicle and a method for reducing humidity in a battery pack are provided. One method includes positioning a battery module within an interior volume of a battery enclosure, the battery enclosure having a floor and configured to be closed with a lid; positioning a desiccant within the interior volume of the battery enclosure; and absorbing water from air within the interior volume of the battery enclosure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to electric vehicles, including all-electric and hybrid electric configurations. More specifically, aspects of this disclosure relate to battery casings for battery packs used in battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Background Technology

[0002] Humidity inside the battery casing can be undesirable. For example, humidity can cause condensation. The presence of water near components at risk of loss of isolation (LOI) is particularly undesirable.

[0003] Accordingly, it is necessary to reduce the humidity inside the battery casing. Furthermore, it is desirable to use components that can be repaired or replaced without removing and / or removing the battery casing from the vehicle to reduce the humidity inside the battery casing. In addition, other desirable features and characteristics of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description and appended claims, taking into account the accompanying drawings and the foregoing technical and background information. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one embodiment, a method for reducing humidity in a battery pack is provided. The method includes: positioning a battery module within an internal volume of a battery housing having a base plate and configured to be closed with a cover; positioning a desiccant within the internal volume of the battery housing; and absorbing water from the air within the internal volume of the battery housing.

[0005] In some embodiments, the method further includes: removing a desiccant from the internal volume of the battery housing; and inserting a fresh desiccant into the internal volume of the battery housing, wherein the battery module remains within the internal volume of the housing during the removal of the desiccant and the insertion of the fresh desiccant.

[0006] In some embodiments of the method, the bottom plate of the housing is supported by a lower crossbeam; a support post is mounted to the lower crossbeam and extends through the internal volume of the battery housing to reach the upper crossbeam; the support post includes a support post wall surrounding a channel; the support post wall is formed with at least one port that provides fluid communication between the channel and the internal volume of the battery housing; and positioning the desiccant within the internal volume of the battery housing includes inserting the desiccant into the channel of the support post.

[0007] In some embodiments of the method, an indicator of contact with the desiccant is visible at the top of the support, and the method also includes using an indicator to provide indication on the outside of the battery casing that the desiccant should be replaced.

[0008] In some embodiments of the method, the battery pack is located in a vehicle having a cabin with a cabin floor, an indicator being visible on the cabin floor, and the method further includes pulling desiccant from a channel in the strut into the vehicle cabin; and inserting fresh desiccant from the vehicle cabin into a channel in the strut.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method further includes using a processor to calculate when the desiccant should be replaced, based on the amount of desiccant located within the internal volume of the battery casing, the performance efficiency of the desiccant, the external humidity of the external environment, and the time period during which the battery pack has been exposed to the external environment.

[0010] In some embodiments of the method, the processor activates an alarm, providing an indication that the desiccant should be replaced.

[0011] In some embodiments of the method, the housing is formed with vents that define airflow channels, and the desiccant is positioned within the internal volume of the battery housing, including positioning the desiccant across the airflow channels.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method further includes: positioning a baffle within the battery casing to redirect airflow entering the internal volume through a vent; and cooling the baffle to cause water from the air to condense.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method further includes: positioning a shut-off baffle across an airflow channel; determining that the desiccant needs regeneration; closing the shut-off baffle to close the airflow channel; heating the desiccant to evaporate water therefrom and regenerate the desiccant; and reopening the shut-off baffle after the desiccant has been regenerated.

[0014] In another embodiment, a battery humidity reduction system for a vehicle is provided. The system includes: a battery housing; a battery module located within the battery housing; a lower crossbeam connected to the vehicle's structure and located below the battery housing; an upper crossbeam connected to the vehicle's structure and located above the battery housing; structural supports interconnecting the lower and upper crossbeams, wherein the interconnected structural supports pass through the battery housing, the structural supports having support walls surrounding an inner channel, and the support walls having windows; and a desiccant located in a desiccant cartridge configured to be inserted into and withdrawn from the inner channel of the structural supports.

[0015] In some embodiments of this battery humidity reduction system, the desiccant cartridge is equipped with an indicator that provides a visual indication when the desiccant needs to be replaced.

[0016] In some embodiments of the battery humidity reduction system, the battery housing is located below the vehicle cabin floor, and the system also includes an opening in the vehicle cabin floor configured to insert the cylinder from the vehicle cabin into an internal channel of the strut.

[0017] In some embodiments of this battery humidity reduction system, the indicator is visible from the vehicle cabin when the desiccant is located in the inner channel.

[0018] In another embodiment, a vehicle is provided, and the vehicle includes: an electric propulsion system; a battery module; a battery housing housed within the battery housing, wherein the battery housing is formed with vents defining airflow channels; and a desiccant extending across the airflow channels.

[0019] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes a baffle within the battery casing for redirecting airflow entering the internal volume through vents.

[0020] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes a cooler that contacts a baffle and is configured to cool the baffle to cause water to condense thereon.

[0021] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes a mesh extending across an airflow channel and located below a baffle, wherein the mesh is configured to collect water from the baffle, and a desiccant is located within the mesh.

[0022] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes a closable baffle extending across the airflow path, and the closable baffle is located between the desiccant and the remaining internal volume of the battery housing.

[0023] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes a controller configured to: determine when the desiccant needs to be regenerated; close a reversible baffle; activate heating of the desiccant to evaporate water therefrom, thereby regenerating the desiccant; and reopen the reversible baffle after the desiccant has been regenerated. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The present disclosure will be described below with reference to the following figures, wherein similar numerals denote similar elements, and wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic top view of an embodiment of a vehicle according to various embodiments, the vehicle having a battery module housed in a battery casing.

[0026] Figure 2 According to various embodiments Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of the battery casing, with a desiccant located inside the casing to reduce humidity therein.

[0027] Figure 3 According to various embodiments Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of the battery casing, with a desiccant located inside the casing to reduce humidity therein.

[0028] Figure 4 According to various embodiments Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of the battery casing, with a desiccant located inside the casing to reduce humidity therein.

[0029] Figure 5 According to various embodiments Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of the battery casing, where a desiccant is located within an airflow channel leading to the battery casing to reduce humidity therein. Detailed Implementation

[0030] This document describes embodiments of the present disclosure in terms of functional and / or logical block components and various processing steps. It should be understood that such block components can be implemented by any number of hardware, software, and / or firmware components configured to perform specified functions. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure can employ various integrated circuit components, such as memory elements, digital signal processing elements, logic elements, lookup tables, etc., which can perform various functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of the present disclosure can be practiced in conjunction with any number of automated driving systems (including cruise control systems, automated driver assistance systems, and autonomous driving systems), and the vehicle system described herein is merely one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] For the sake of brevity, conventional technologies and components related to other functional aspects of vehicle mechanical parts and systems (and the various operating components of those systems) may not be described in detail herein. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures contained herein are intended to illustrate exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in the embodiments. It should also be understood that the figures are illustrative only and may not be drawn to scale, and the proportions between different drawn elements may not be shown.

[0032] Additionally, the following description refers to elements or features being “connected” or “coupled” together. As used herein, “connected” can mean that one element / feature is directly coupled to (or communicates directly with) another element / feature, and not necessarily mechanically. Similarly, “coupled” can mean that one element / feature is directly or indirectly coupled to (or communicates directly or indirectly with) another element / feature, and not necessarily mechanically. However, it should be understood that although two elements may be described as “connected” in one embodiment below, similar elements may be “coupled” in alternative embodiments, and vice versa. Therefore, although the schematic diagrams shown herein depict exemplary arrangements of elements, additional intervening elements, devices, features, or components may be present in actual embodiments.

[0033] For the purposes of this description, unless expressly denied, the use of the singular includes the plural and vice versa; the terms “and” and “or” should be both conjunctive and disjunctive; and the words “including,” “contains,” “comprising,” “containing,” “having,” etc., should mean “including but not limited to.” Furthermore, approximate words such as “approximately,” “almost,” “substantially,” “roughly,” etc., may be used herein in the sense of “being, near, or almost being,” or “within 0-5% of,” or “within acceptable manufacturing tolerances,” or logical combinations thereof. As used herein, a component “configured” to perform the specified function is capable of performing the specified function without alteration, rather than merely having the potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, when explicitly configured to perform the specified function, the described hardware is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function.

[0034] Figure 1 The illustration shows a vehicle 100 according to an exemplary implementation. Note that... Figure 1 This is for illustrative purposes only and is not drawn to scale, nor is it intended to show proportions between different drawn elements. As described in further detail below, vehicle 100 includes a rechargeable energy storage system (“RESS”) 101 and a control system 102, as well as other components. In various implementations, RESS 101 includes multiple battery cells in a battery pack. Furthermore, in various implementations, control system 102 controls RESS 101.

[0035] like Figure 1As depicted, according to an exemplary implementation, RESS 101 and control system 102 are portrayed as part of vehicle 100. In various implementations, vehicle 100 includes automobiles, such as any of several different types of automobiles, such as, for example, sedans, vans, trucks, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), etc. In some implementations, vehicle 100 may also include motorcycles or other vehicles, such as aircraft, spacecraft, ships, etc., and / or one or more other types of mobile platforms (e.g., robots and / or another mobile platform). In other implementations, RESS 101 and control system 102 may alternatively be part of and / or coupled to any number of other types of mobile or non-mobile platforms and / or other systems (such as buildings, infrastructure, secondary uses, home power, non-automotive and / or other platforms and / or other systems).

[0036] In the depicted implementation, vehicle 100 includes a body 104 disposed on a chassis 116. The chassis 116 may include a frame and a suspension system. Vehicle 100 includes a passenger compartment 180 located above a passenger compartment floor 182. The body 104 substantially surrounds the other components of vehicle 100. The body 104 and chassis 116 may together form a frame. In an integrated design, the frame and body 104 are integral units.

[0037] The vehicle 100 also includes a plurality of wheels 112. Each wheel 112 is rotatably coupled to the chassis 116 near a corresponding corner of the body 104 to facilitate movement of the vehicle 100. In one implementation, the vehicle 100 includes four wheels 112, although this may vary in other implementations (e.g., for trucks, motorcycles, and certain other vehicles).

[0038] The drive system 110 is mounted on the chassis 116 and drives the wheels 112, for example, via axle 114. In some implementations, the drive system 110 includes a propulsion system with an electric motor 113. In various implementations, the drive system 110 including the motor 113 receives a high voltage from the RESS 101.

[0039] In various implementations, in addition to providing high voltage to motor 113, RESS 101 also provides low voltage to one or more low voltage systems 111 of vehicle 100. As an example in various implementations, low voltage system 111 may include one or more climate control systems, radio systems, seat heating systems, etc.

[0040] like Figure 1As depicted, in various implementations, the vehicle also includes a braking system 106 and a steering system 108. In an exemplary implementation, the braking system 106 uses braking components to control the braking of the vehicle 100, which are controlled via input provided by the driver (e.g., via the brake pedal) and / or automatically controlled via a control system (such as control system 102 and / or one or more other control systems). Furthermore, in an exemplary implementation, the steering system 108 controls the steering of the vehicle 100 via steering components, which are controlled via input provided by the driver (e.g., via the steering wheel) and / or automatically controlled via a control system (such as control system 102 and / or one or more other control systems).

[0041] exist Figure 1 In the depicted implementation, the control system 102 is coupled to the RESS 101, receives inputs from it, and controls its functions. Additionally, in some implementations, the control system 102 is coupled to one or more of the braking system 106, steering system 108, drive system 110, and / or low-voltage system 111, and in some implementations, it may also receive inputs from and / or control these additional systems.

[0042] In addition, such as Figure 1 In various implementations, the control system 102 includes a sensor array or arrangement 120 and a control module 140 (or controller) as described in more detail below.

[0043] In various implementations, sensor array 120 includes various sensors that acquire sensor data from vehicle 100 for use in controlling RESS 101 and other functions. In the depicted implementation, sensor array 120 may include one or more voltage sensors 130, current sensors 132, temperature sensors 134, pressure sensors 136, gas sensors 137, and humidity sensors 138.

[0044] In various implementations, the control module 140 is coupled to the sensor array 120 and receives sensor data from it. In various implementations, the control module 140 is also coupled to the RESS 101. Additionally, in some implementations, the control module 140 may also be coupled to one or more other systems of the vehicle 100, such as the braking system 106, steering system 108, drive system 110, and / or low-voltage systems, for example, to receive their inputs and / or for their control.

[0045] like Figure 1 As depicted, in various implementations, the control module 140 includes a computer system and includes a processor 142, a memory 144, an interface 146, a storage device 148, and a computer bus 150.

[0046] Processor 142 performs the computational and control functions of control module 140 and may include any type of processor or multiple processors, a single integrated circuit such as a microprocessor, or any suitable number of integrated circuit devices and / or circuit boards that work together to perform the functions of the processing unit. During operation, processor 142 executes one or more programs 152 contained in memory 144 and thus controls the general operation of control module 140 and the computer system of control module 140, which is typically done while performing the processes described herein.

[0047] Memory 144 can be any suitable type of memory, including various types of nontransitory computer-readable storage media. In some examples, memory 144 is located on and / or co-located with processor 142 on the same computer chip. In the depicted implementation, memory 144 stores the aforementioned program 152 as well as stored values ​​157 (e.g., lookup tables, thresholds, and / or other values ​​relating to control of RESS 101).

[0048] Interface 146 allows communication, for example, from a system drive and / or another computer system to the computer system of control module 140, and can be implemented using any suitable methods and means. In one implementation, interface 146 obtains various data from sensor array 120 and other possible data sources. Interface 146 may include one or more network interfaces for communicating with other systems or components. Interface 146 may also include one or more network interfaces for communicating with technicians, and / or one or more storage interfaces for connecting to storage devices (such as storage device 148).

[0049] Storage device 148 can be any suitable type of storage device, including various types of direct-access storage and / or other memory devices. In one exemplary implementation, storage device 148 includes a program product from which memory 144 can receive program 152, which performs one or more implementations of one or more processes of this disclosure, such as... Figure 5 The steps of method 500, which are further described below, are also described in conjunction with the steps of the method described below. In another exemplary implementation, the program product may be stored directly in memory 144 and / or disk (e.g., disk 156) and / or otherwise accessed by memory 144 and / or disk, as referenced below.

[0050] Bus 150 is used to transmit programs, data, status, and other information or signals between various components of the computer system in control module 140. Bus 150 can be any suitable physical or logical device for connecting the computer system and components. This includes, but is not limited to, direct hardwired connections, fiber optic, infrared, and wireless bus technologies. During operation, program 152 is stored in memory 144 and executed by processor 142.

[0051] It will be understood that although this exemplary implementation is described in the context of a full-featured computer system, those skilled in the art will recognize that the mechanisms of this disclosure can be distributed as program products in which one or more types of nontransitory computer-readable signal-bearing media are used to store programs and their instructions and to perform their distribution, such as nontransitory computer-readable media that carry programs and contain computer instructions (for causing a computer processor (such as processor 142) to execute and run the program) stored therein.

[0052] exist Figure 1 In this configuration, RESS 101 is located within battery housing 170, which can be structurally mounted directly or indirectly to chassis 116. Battery housing 170 is accessible from cockpit 180, such as via cockpit floor 182.

[0053] Figure 2 Provided Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of a portion of the battery casing 170. RESS101 is not shown in... Figure 2 As shown, it may be located in the shown portion of the battery housing 170 and / or in the unshown portion of the battery housing 170. Figure 2 An embodiment of a battery housing 170 configured to contain a desiccant in an easily removable manner is shown.

[0054] The battery housing 170 surrounds the internal volume 202. Specifically, the battery housing 170 separates the internal volume 202 from the external volume 302 outside the battery housing 170. As further shown, the battery housing 170 includes a base structure or tray 204 and a top cover 206. The tray 204 and the cover 206 may be in contact with each other, connected, and sealable. Alternatively, one or more sidewalls may interconnect the tray 204 and the cover 206. The battery housing may be indirectly mounted to the chassis 116 via the tray 204, via the cover 206, or via both the tray 204 and the cover 206.

[0055] exist Figure 2 In the middle, the lower structural beam 252 is located below the tray 204 of the battery casing 170 and can be structurally connected to the chassis 116 (in Figure 1(As shown in the diagram). Similarly, the upper structural crossbeam 254 is located above the cover 206 of the battery casing 170 and can be structurally connected to the chassis 116 (in... Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram). Furthermore, the cabin floor 182 is located above the upper structural beam 254. The cabin floor 182 can be directly supported by the upper beam 254, or indirectly supported by the upper beam 254.

[0056] As further shown, a support column 260 may be provided. The support column 260 may be a structural component connected to a crossbeam 252 below the tray 204 and above the cover 206. As shown, the support column 260 may extend through the battery housing 170. Specifically, the support column 260 may extend through the tray 204 and through the cover 206. Furthermore, the support column 260 may extend through the cabin floor 182, or be accessible through an opening 184 in the cabin floor 182.

[0057] In addition to providing structural support for the vehicle 100, the strut 260 also serves a secondary purpose. As shown, the strut 260 includes an outer wall 262 surrounding the inner channel 264. The outer wall 262 is formed with windows or openings 266 to allow fluid communication between the inner channel 264 and the internal volume 202 of the battery casing 170.

[0058] As further shown, desiccant 280 is located in the inner channel 264 of the support 260. Desiccant 280 can be any suitable material, such as silica-based or calcium-based materials, and / or a high-performance color-changing composition selected for use under the typical conditions encountered by the battery casing 170.

[0059] Desiccant 280 can be positioned within a cylinder 282 or a rod structure and can be inserted into the inner channel 264 of the strut 260 through an opening 184 in the cabin floor 182. Desiccant 280 can contact indicator 290. For example, indicator 290 can be a color-changing composition. For example, indicator 290 can change color based on moisture levels. Thus, when a selected amount of water has been removed from the air within the internal volume 202 of the battery casing 170 by the desiccant, indicator 290 can reach a moisture level that causes a color change. As shown, indicator 290 can be located at the top of cylinder 282 such that indicator 290 is visible from the vehicle cabin 180 without removing cylinder 282.

[0060] In some embodiments, a connection is provided between the desiccant cartridge 282 and the cabin floor 182 to prevent gas from leaving the battery housing 202 and entering the vehicle cabin 180. For example, the desiccant cartridge 282 and the cabin floor 182 may be threaded together to engage with each other, such that the desiccant cartridge 282 is screwed into the cabin floor 182.

[0061] Although a single structural support 260 for containing desiccant 280 is shown, embodiments may provide any suitable number of structural supports 260 for containing desiccant 280.

[0062] In addition to inserting the desiccant 280 into the structural support 260, the embodiment may also allow the addition of desiccant at other locations on the battery casing 170.

[0063] For example, it may be determined that condensation is more likely to occur at locations such as the front connector, rear connector, battery disconnect unit (BDU) connection, or other locations within the battery housing 170, and / or at locations of greater concern. Therefore, a non-structural support 240 can be inserted into the identified location. As shown, the non-structural support 240 may not extend through the tray 204 of the battery housing 170. Specifically, the non-structural support 240 may extend through the cover 206. Furthermore, the non-structural support 240 may extend through the cabin floor 182, or be accessible through an opening 184 in the cabin floor 182.

[0064] Similar to the support column 240, the non-structural support column 240 includes an outer wall surrounding the inner channel. The outer wall is formed with windows or openings to allow fluid communication between the inner channel and the internal volume 202 of the battery housing 170.

[0065] As further shown, the desiccant 280 is located in the inner channel of the non-structural support 240, such as via the desiccant cartridge 282, as described above with respect to support 260. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the indicator 290 may be located at the top of the cartridge 282.

[0066] The use of non-structural supports 240 allows the desiccant 280 to be selectively positioned at any desired location within the internal volume 202 of the battery casing 170, regardless of the location of the structural supports 260. Furthermore, any desired number of non-structural supports 240 can be used to provide the desired amount of water removal and humidity reduction.

[0067] Now for reference Figure 3 An embodiment is provided in which a battery housing 170 is configured to contain a desiccant in an easily removable manner. The battery housing 170 surrounds an internal volume 202. Specifically, the battery housing 170 separates the internal volume 202 from an external volume 302 outside the battery housing 170.

[0068] exist Figure 3 The image shows a sidewall 205 of the battery casing 170. The sidewall 205 can be a tray 204 or a cover 206 (see Figure 170). Figure 2 Alternatively, tray 204 and lid 206 can be interconnected.

[0069] exist Figure 3 In this configuration, a vent 310 is formed in the side wall 205. As shown, a housing structure 320 can surround the vent 310 and connect to the side wall 205. The vent 310 and the housing structure 320 define an airflow passage 315. Furthermore, a membrane 330 can extend across the airflow passage 315. As shown, a spark suppressor 340 can also extend across the airflow passage 315.

[0070] A baffle 350 is provided on the inside of the vent 310. As shown, a cooler 360 (such as a Peltier cooler or a thermoelectric cooler) may be located on the back of the baffle 350. In addition, a mesh 370 (such as a metal mesh 370) extends across the airflow channel 315.

[0071] Baffle 350 is provided to redirect airflow. Baffle 350 can be metal or other thermally conductive material. Cooler 360 cools baffle 350. Therefore, humid air entering the internal volume 202 through vent 315 is cooled by baffle 350, and water condenses on baffle 350. Subsequently, the water can drip down onto mesh 370 under gravity.

[0072] In some embodiments herein, the desiccant 280 is located within the mesh 370. Therefore, the desiccant 280 can absorb water dripping from the baffle 350. Furthermore, the desiccant 280 can absorb moisture from the air passing through the mesh 370.

[0073] like Figure 3 As shown, the housing 320 may be formed with a channel 325 through which the desiccant 280 can be inserted into and removed from the mesh 370. The desiccant 280 may be located in a tray or tray-shaped cylinder 282 to facilitate insertion and removal.

[0074] exist Figure 3 In one embodiment, all air entering the battery casing 170 through the vent 310 must pass through the desiccant 280 located in the mesh 370.

[0075] Additionally or alternatively, the desiccant 280 may be an extension of the cooled baffle 350. This arrangement increases the additional cold surface area for contact with humid air entering the battery pack. In such embodiments, the mesh 370 may be located before or after the desiccant 280, or the mesh 370 may be a cage-like structure within which the desiccant cartridge is located.

[0076] Now for reference Figure 4An embodiment is provided in which a battery housing 170 is configured to contain a desiccant in an easily removable manner. The battery housing 170 surrounds an internal volume 202. Specifically, the battery housing 170 separates the internal volume 202 from an external volume 302 outside the battery housing 170.

[0077] exist Figure 4 The image shows a sidewall 205 of the battery casing 170. The sidewall 205 may be part of the tray 204 or the cover 206, or the tray 204 and the cover 206 may be interconnected.

[0078] exist Figure 4 In this configuration, a vent 310 is formed in the side wall 205. As shown, a housing structure 320 can surround the vent 310 and connect to the side wall 205. The vent 310 and the housing structure 320 define an airflow passage 315. Furthermore, a membrane 330 can extend across the airflow passage 315. As shown, a spark suppressor 340 can also extend across the airflow passage 315.

[0079] A baffle 350 is provided on the inside of the vent 310. As shown, a cooler 360 (such as a Peltier cooler or a thermoelectric cooler) may be located on the back of the baffle 350. In addition, a mesh 370 (such as a metal mesh 370) extends across the airflow channel 315.

[0080] Baffle 350 is provided to redirect airflow. Baffle 350 can be metal or other thermally conductive material. Cooler 360 cools baffle 350. Therefore, humid air entering the internal volume 202 through vent 315 is cooled by baffle 350, and water condenses on baffle 350. Subsequently, the water can drip down onto mesh 370 under gravity.

[0081] In the embodiments described herein, the desiccant 280 is located within the mesh 370. Therefore, the desiccant 280 can absorb water dripping from the baffle 350. Furthermore, the desiccant 280 can absorb moisture from the air passing through the mesh 370.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, the housing 320 may be formed with a channel 325 through which the desiccant 280 can be inserted into and removed from the mesh 370. The desiccant 280 may be located in a tray or tray-shaped cylinder 282 to facilitate insertion and removal.

[0083] exist Figure 4 In one embodiment, all air entering the battery casing 170 through the vent 310 must pass through the desiccant 280 located in the mesh 370.

[0084] Now for reference Figure 5An embodiment is provided in which a battery housing 170 is configured to contain a desiccant in an easily removable manner. The battery housing 170 surrounds an internal volume 202. Specifically, the battery housing 170 separates the internal volume 202 from an external volume 302 outside the battery housing 170.

[0085] exist Figure 5 The image shows a sidewall 205 of the battery casing 170. The sidewall 205 may be part of the tray 204 or the cover 206, or the tray 204 and the cover 206 may be interconnected.

[0086] exist Figure 5 In this configuration, a vent 310 is formed in the side wall 205. As shown, a housing structure 320 can surround the vent 310 and connect to the side wall 205. The vent 310 and the housing structure 320 define an airflow passage 315. Furthermore, a membrane 330 can extend across the airflow passage 315. As shown, a spark suppressor 340 can also extend across the airflow passage 315.

[0087] A baffle 350 is provided on the inner side of the vent 310. The baffle 350 is provided to redirect the airflow direction. The baffle 350 can be metal or other thermally conductive material.

[0088] In addition, the baffle 390 can be closed across the airflow channel 315 extension.

[0089] In the embodiments described herein, the desiccant 280 is positioned across the airflow channel 315 within the housing 320. Therefore, the desiccant 280 can absorb moisture entering the battery casing 170 through the vent 310. Specifically, all air entering the battery casing 170 through the vent 310 must pass through the desiccant 280.

[0090] exist Figure 5 In this embodiment, when the desiccant 280 needs to be replaced, the baffle 390 can be closed. The desiccant 280 does not need to be removed; instead, it is regenerated by heating the desiccant 280 to evaporate the water therein. Because the baffle 390 is closed, the evaporated water will not enter the battery casing 170. After sufficient water has evaporated and diffused into the external environment 302, the baffle 390 can be reopened. This regeneration process can be performed by… Figure 1 It is operated by a controller.

[0091] In addition, it should be noted that during a thermal event, the baffle 390 can be fully opened or disassembled to allow gas to flow outward to the maximum extent through the vent 310.

[0092] In each embodiment described herein, a person skilled in the art can access the desiccant without disconnecting or removing the battery module. For example, in Figure 2In one embodiment, the desiccant can be inserted and removed from the vehicle cabin. Figures 3-4 In one embodiment, the desiccant can be inserted and removed by lifting the vehicle and accessing the outside of the vent. Figure 5 Although designed for regeneration rather than replacement, the desiccant can also be accessed by lifting the vehicle and accessing the outside of the vent.

[0093] In some embodiments described herein, the desiccant cartridge integrated into the vehicle floor strut (structural element) within the RESS package enables the strut to be versatile. The cartridge can be maintained from inside the cabin and may feature color-coded indicators.

[0094] In some embodiments described herein, the desiccant strut has a design feature that engages with the cabin floor to prevent gas leakage into the cabin.

[0095] In some embodiments described herein, in addition to existing structural elements, the desiccant cartridge may also be located at high-voltage locations, such as front and rear connectors, and BDU connections identified as having a high risk of insulation failure (LOI).

[0096] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the desiccant cartridge may be integrated into the vent assembly with or without a desiccant regeneration element.

[0097] In some embodiments, the desiccant cartridge may be integrated with a drain plug on the bottom tray of the RESS package.

[0098] In some embodiments, the amount of desiccant provided in the battery casing can be based on the high humidity environment and the permissible amount of desiccant entering through the vents each day to achieve a service-based target time.

[0099] In some embodiments, the processor calculates whether the desiccant should be replaced or regenerated based on the amount of desiccant located within the internal volume of the battery casing, the desiccant's performance efficiency, the external humidity of the external environment, and the time period the battery pack has been exposed to the external environment. The amount of desiccant within the internal volume of the battery casing can be input by a technician or sensed by a sensor. The desiccant's performance efficiency can be input by a technician, or the desiccant can be identified by a technician, and the processor can look up the identified desiccant's performance efficiency. The external humidity of the external environment can be sensed by a sensor. The time period can be monitored by the processor.

[0100] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be understood that numerous variations exist. It should also be understood that the exemplary embodiments or multiple exemplary embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of this disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient roadmap for implementing the exemplary embodiments or multiple exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements without departing from the scope of this disclosure as set forth in the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for reducing humidity in a battery pack, the method comprising: The battery module is positioned within the internal volume of a battery housing, which has a base plate and is configured to be closed with a cover. The desiccant is positioned within the internal volume of the battery casing; as well as Water is absorbed from the air within the internal volume of the battery casing.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Remove the desiccant from the internal volume of the battery casing; as well as A fresh desiccant is inserted into the internal volume of the battery casing. During the removal of the desiccant and the insertion of the fresh desiccant, the battery module remains within the internal volume of the housing.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The bottom plate of the outer casing is supported by a lower crossbeam; The support column is installed to the lower crossbeam and extends through the internal volume of the battery casing to reach the upper crossbeam; The support includes a support wall surrounding the passageway; The support wall is formed with at least one port, the at least one port providing fluid communication between the channel and the internal volume of the battery casing; and Positioning the desiccant within the internal volume of the battery casing includes inserting the desiccant into the channel of the support.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: The battery pack is located in the vehicle, which has a cabin and a cabin floor. An indicator for contact with the desiccant is visible at the top of the pillar and at the floor of the cabin; as well as The method further includes: The indicator provides a signal on the outside of the battery casing that the desiccant should be replaced. The desiccant is pulled from the channel of the pillar into the vehicle cabin; and Fresh desiccant is inserted from the vehicle cabin into the channel of the pillar.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Based on the amount of desiccant located within the internal volume of the battery casing, the performance efficiency of the desiccant, the external humidity of the external environment, and the time period during which the battery pack has been exposed to the external environment, a processor calculates that the desiccant should be replaced, and wherein the processor activates an alarm to provide an indication that the desiccant should be replaced.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the housing is formed with a vent defining an airflow channel, and wherein positioning the desiccant within the internal volume of the battery housing includes positioning the desiccant across the airflow channel.

7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising: The baffle is positioned inside the battery casing to redirect airflow entering the internal volume through the vent; as well as The baffle is cooled to cause water from the air to condense.

8. The method according to claim 6, further comprising: Positioning across the airflow channel allows the baffle to be closed; It has been determined that the desiccant needs to be regenerated; Close the reversible baffle to shut off the airflow passage; The desiccant is heated to evaporate water therefrom and to regenerate the desiccant; as well as The reversible baffle is reopened after the desiccant is regenerated.

9. A battery humidity reduction system for a vehicle, the system comprising: Battery casing; A battery module, wherein the battery module is located inside the battery casing; A lower crossbeam, which is connected to the structure of the vehicle and located below the battery casing; An upper crossbeam, which is connected to the structure of the vehicle and is located above the battery casing; Structural support, which interconnects the lower crossbeam and the upper crossbeam, wherein the structural support passes through the battery casing, wherein the structural support is formed with a support wall surrounding an inner channel, and wherein the support wall is formed with a window; as well as A desiccant, the desiccant being located in a desiccant cartridge, the desiccant cartridge being configured to be inserted into and withdrawn from the inner channel of the structural support.

10. The battery humidity reduction system according to claim 9, wherein: The desiccant cartridge is equipped with an indicator that provides a visual indication when the desiccant needs to be replaced. The battery casing is located below the floor of the vehicle's cabin. When the desiccant is located in the inner channel, the indicator is visible from the vehicle cabin; as well as The system also includes an opening in the vehicle cabin floor, configured to insert the cylinder from the vehicle cabin into the inner channel of the strut.

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