Battery vent valve

Abstract

An exhaust valve is configured to be mounted on an enclosure, such as a battery case. The exhaust valve includes a piston subassembly that is movable relative to a valve housing between closed and open positions. When the piston subassembly is closed, the exhaust valve provides a throttled fluid flow path through a hydrophobic membrane. When the piston subassembly is open, the exhaust valve provides a less throttled flow path to provide space for thermal runaway mitigation and / or leak checking of the enclosure. When the exhaust valve is mounted on the enclosure, one side of the valve housing faces the enclosure. A biasing member exerts a biasing force between the piston subassembly and the one side of the valve housing, such that the biasing member pulls the piston subassembly toward the closed position.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Italian Patent Application No. 102025000020956, filed on August 7, 2025; and to Indian Provisional Application No. 202511041685, filed on April 30, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Battery casings and other enclosed devices used to house batteries may passively release various gases during the battery's lifespan. Existing battery venting modules typically employ custom-molded seals and seat ring structures within the device. Furthermore, battery casings may face overpressure conditions, where the internal pressure of the battery rises above a safe threshold, leading to casing damage or rupture. More seriously, liquids released during overpressure may come into contact with membranes or components that facilitate venting, and the composition of these liquids may damage the membrane materials.

[0004] The enclosure may require leak checks after manufacturing or during manufacturing. The current enclosure has through-holes for end-of-line leak checks at the end of the enclosure manufacturing process. After the end-of-line leak check, passive vents are installed in the through-holes of the enclosure. Leak checks cannot be performed on through-holes with installed passive vents. Instead, performing another leak check on the enclosure would either require opening another through-hole or adding an extra step (e.g., removing the passive vent, performing the leak check, and then reinstalling the passive vent after the leak check).

[0005] It may be beneficial to provide a device that can provide ventilation for the battery casing, provide pressure relief, provide leak detection, and / or protect the diaphragm from the pressure relief fluid during pressure relief. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Various aspects of this disclosure relate to an exhaust valve assembly and a method of using the same.

[0007] According to some aspects of this disclosure, the vent valve can operate in passive venting mode and emergency venting mode. During pressure peaks, the vent valve automatically transitions from passive venting mode to emergency venting mode.

[0008] In some implementations, the vent valve can also operate in leak detection mode. In some embodiments, the vent valve is manually switched from passive venting mode to leak detection mode using a tool. This tool can be operated externally from the vent valve.

[0009] In some embodiments, the vent valve is configured to be mounted on the battery case at an opening defined in the battery case.

[0010] In some embodiments, the exhaust valve includes a valve housing, a piston subassembly mounted to a first side of the valve housing, a piston guide extending from the piston subassembly, and a biasing member configured to apply a biasing force between the piston guide and a second main side of the valve housing.

[0011] In some examples, the biasing element includes a leaf spring. In other examples, the biasing element includes a coil spring. In some examples, a cage protects the biasing element during thermal runaway.

[0012] In some embodiments, the particle trap can prevent debris from flowing out of the housing through the vent valve during thermal runaway.

[0013] In some implementations, the splash deflector can suppress a direct splash path between the piston subassembly exterior and the diaphragm.

[0014] In some implementations, the protective element extends from the support frame to cover the bias element.

[0015] In some implementations, the raised lip surrounds part or all of the valve housing.

[0016] In some embodiments, a self-locking fastener structure can be used to secure the bias member to the piston guide. In other embodiments, a oscillating forging process can be used to secure the bias member to the piston guide.

[0017] Various other inventive aspects will be set forth in the following description. Various aspects of the invention may relate to a single feature or a combination of features. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and explanatory, and do not limit the broad inventive concepts on which the embodiments disclosed herein are based. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of this disclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a top perspective view of a first example exhaust valve configured according to the principles of this disclosure, the first exhaust valve having a first type of biasing element.

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Bottom perspective view of the exhaust valve.

[0021] Figure 3 It is applicable Figure 1 The top perspective view of an example valve housing for an exhaust valve.

[0022] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Bottom perspective view of the valve housing.

[0023] Figure 5 Is it suitable for and Figure 1 Top perspective view of an example piston subassembly used with an exhaust valve.

[0024] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Bottom perspective view of the middle piston subassembly.

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The top perspective view of the piston subassembly is shown, with the components separated for easier observation.

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Bottom perspective view of the piston subassembly.

[0027] Figure 9 It is along Figure 1 The 9-9 line obtained Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an exhaust valve having a piston subassembly arranged in the closed position.

[0028] Figure 9A yes Figure 9 A magnified view of a portion of the image, showing the exhaust flow path.

[0029] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 The exhaust valve, in which the piston subassembly is shown in the open position, has a second gasket held by the valve housing.

[0030] Figure 11 It shows Figure 9 The exhaust valve, except that the second gasket is fixed by the piston subassembly.

[0031] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 Bottom plan view of the exhaust valve.

[0032] Figure 13 for Figure 1 A variant of the exhaust valve that incorporates a particulate filter. Figure 13 The exhaust valve also has a rectangular footprint.

[0033] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a second exhaust valve configured according to the principles of this disclosure, the second exhaust valve having a second type of biasing element.

[0034] Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 The second exhaust valve has a retainer arranged around the second type of bias member.

[0035] Figure 16 It shows Figure 14The second exhaust valve has a biasing element and a particle trap arranged around the valve body hole.

[0036] Figure 17 An example of an exhaust valve mounted on the side wall of the housing is shown.

[0037] Figure 18 This is a top perspective view of a third example exhaust valve configured according to the principles of this disclosure, wherein the first exhaust valve has a first type of biasing element.

[0038] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 Bottom perspective view of the exhaust valve.

[0039] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 First cross-sectional view of the exhaust valve.

[0040] Figure 21 yes Figure 18 The second sectional view of the exhaust valve.

[0041] Figure 22 yes Figure 18 A cross-sectional perspective view of the cover of the piston subassembly of the exhaust valve.

[0042] Figure 23 It shows Figure 18 The exhaust valve, with its piston subassembly in the closed position, is shown in the image captioned to show the exhaust valve flow path.

[0043] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 The exhaust valve and piston subassembly are in the open position, and the annotation in the figure shows the less constrained flow path.

[0044] Figure 25 yes Figure 23 A partial enlarged view shows the splash deflector extending into the cover hole.

[0045] Figure 26 This is a bottom perspective view of the exhaust valve, which is related to... Figure 18 The exhaust valve is basically similar, except that the piston guide is formed by a self-locking fastener structure.

[0046] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 A cross-sectional view of the exhaust valve.

[0047] Figure 28 This is a bottom perspective view of the exhaust valve, which is related to... Figure 18 The exhaust valve is basically similar, except that the protective element extends from the support frame of the valve body to cover the offset element.

[0048] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 Top perspective view of the valve housing.

[0049] Figure 30 yes Figure 28 Bottom perspective view of the valve housing.

[0050] Figure 31 This is a bottom perspective view of the exhaust valve, which is related to... Figure 18 The exhaust valve is basically the same, except that the support frame forms a particle trap.

[0051] Figure 32 yes Figure 31 A cross-sectional view of the exhaust valve. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Exemplary aspects of this disclosure, which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, will now be described in detail. Where possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0053] Referring to the general case shown in the figure, exhaust valves 100, 200, and 300 are suitable for supplying gas to housing E (see Figure 1). Figure 17 Internal venting, such as in the battery of an electric vehicle. Vent valves 100, 200, and 300 are configured to be mounted at the housing E such that at least a portion of vent valves 100, 200, and 300 extends into the housing E. In some embodiments, vent valves 100, 200, and 300 are configured to passively vent the housing E through membranes 120, 220, and 320 (e.g., hydrophobic membranes). In some embodiments, vent valves 100, 200, and 300 are configured to provide emergency pressure venting (e.g., thermal runaway relief). In some embodiments, vent valves 100, 200, and 300 are configured to provide a leak detection function for the housing E after installation. In some embodiments, vent valves 100, 200, and 300 are configured to provide two or more of the following functions: passive venting, emergency venting, and / or leak detection.

[0054] In some implementations, the exhaust valves 100, 200, and 300 have a circular footprint (see, for example, see...). Figure 1 However, in other embodiments, the exhaust valves 100, 200 may have different shapes (e.g., see...). Figure 18 For example, exhaust valves 100 and 200 can be rectangular, such as... Figure 13-15 As shown.

[0055] Exhaust valves 100, 200, and 300 include valve bodies 102, 202, 302, and 402, piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304, and biasing members 106, 206, and 306. Valve bodies 102, 202, 302, and 402 have first main sides 108, 208, 308, and 408 and second main sides 110, 210, 310, and 410. Valve bodies 102, 202, 302, and 402 are configured to be mounted on a housing E such that the first main sides 108, 208, 308, and 408 face away from the housing E, and the second main sides 110, 210, 310, and 410 face towards the housing E. Valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402 include support frames 112, 212, 312, and 412 defining at least one hole 114, 214, 314, and 414. In some embodiments, valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402 define fastener openings 109, 309, and 409 through which fasteners can extend to mount valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402 onto housing E; other connection methods may also be used. In some embodiments, valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402 are formed of metal. In some embodiments, valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402 are formed of stamped metal. In some embodiments, valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402 are electroplated or electroplated with a coating.

[0056] In some embodiments, valve housings 302, 402 include outer lips 390, 490 extending along at least a portion of the circumference of the valve housings 302, 402. Figure 18-32 In the example shown, valve bodies 302, 402 have a first outer lip 390, 490 extending along one corner and a second outer lip 390, 490 extending along the other corner. Each corner enclosed by the outer lip 390, 490 defines one or more fastener openings 309, 409. When the exhaust valves 100, 200, 300 are secured (e.g., bolted) to the housing E and / or during high-pressure events, the outer lips 390, 490 can reinforce the valve bodies 302, 402 to prevent deformation. Figure 24 As shown, the lips 390 and 490 are low enough that the piston subassembly 304 can avoid the lips 390 and 490 when it is raised to the open position.

[0057] In some embodiments, valve housings 102, 202, 302, 402 are configured to seal against housing E. For example, valve housings 102, 202, 302, 402 may receive or carry a first gasket G1 configured to seal against housing E when exhaust valves 100, 200, 300 are mounted onto housing E. In some examples, the first gasket G1 is carried on the second main sides 110, 210, 310, 410 of valve housings 102, 202, 302, 402. In one example, the second main sides 110, 210, 310, 410 of valve housings 102, 202, 302, 402 define a channel C1 on which the first gasket G1 may be mounted (e.g., see...). Figure 19 ).

[0058] Piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 are mounted on the first main sides 108, 208, and 308 of valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402, such that piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 are positioned above support frames 112, 212, 312, and 412. As will be further discussed below, piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 are thereby defined to form at least one flow path. The flow path leads to holes 114, 214, 314, and 414 defined on the support frames 112, 212, 312, and 412 of valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402. Piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 can be in a closed position relative to valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402. Figure 1 , 9 and 23) and open position ( Figure 10 , 11 104, 204, 304 move between 24 and 25. When in the closed position, the piston subassemblies 104, 204, 304 seal with the first main sides 108, 208, 308, 408 of the valve housings 102, 202, 302, 402.

[0059] In some embodiments, piston subassemblies 104, 204, 304 may receive or carry a second gasket G2, which, when the piston subassemblies 104, 204, 304 are arranged in the closed position, is configured to seal against first sides 108, 208, 308, 408 of valve bodies 102, 202, 302, 402. In some examples, the second gasket G2 is carried by pistons 118, 218, 318 of the piston subassemblies 104, 204 as the piston subassemblies 104, 204 move between the closed and open positions. For example, piston 318 may define a channel C2 in which the second gasket G2 is mounted (e.g., see...). Figure 19In one example, the second gasket G2 may be bonded (e.g., glued, welded, etc.) to the pistons 118, 318. However, in other embodiments, the valve bodies 102, 202, 302, 402 may accommodate the second gasket G2. For example, the first sides 108, 208, 308, 408 of the valve bodies 102, 202, 302, 402 may define a channel in which the second gasket G2 is mounted. In this case, when the piston subassemblies 104, 204, 304 move to the open position, the pistons 118, 218, 318 will be lifted off the second gasket G2.

[0060] Bias members 106, 206, and 306 are disposed at the second main sides 110, 210, and 310 of the valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402. The bias members 106, 206, and 306 are configured to apply a biasing force between the piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 and the second main sides 110, 210, 310, and 410 of the valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402. Therefore, the bias members 106, 206, and 306 pull the piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 to the closed position. The biasing force of the bias members 106, 206, and 306 is set to overcome the pressure generated within the casing E during a thermal runaway event or other explosive force. The biasing forces of the biasing elements 106, 206, and 306 are set to hold the piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 in the closed position during normal operation to resist vibrations or other bumps of the vehicle carrying the housing E.

[0061] Piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 include pistons 118, 218, and 318, and caps 120, 220, and 320, which sandwich hydrophobic membranes 122, 222, and 322. In some examples, membranes 122, 222, and 322 are annular. In other examples, membranes 122, 222, and 322 are disc-shaped (e.g., see...). Figure 7 In other examples, membranes 122, 222, and 322 can have any desired shape (e.g., elliptical, rectangular, triangular, tubular, etc.). In some examples, pistons 118, 218, and 318 and caps 120, 220, and 320 are made of plastic. Other materials (such as metals) may also be used. In some examples, pistons 118, 218, and 318 and / or caps 120, 220, and 320 may be electroplated or electroplated with a coating.

[0062] Pistons 118, 218, and 318 each have at least one orifice 124, 224, or 324 passing through them. Caps 120, 220, and 320 also define at least one orifice 126, 226, or 326 passing through them. Orifices 124, 324, 126, and 326 cooperate with membranes 122 and 322 to define the exhaust flow path VP through piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 (e.g., see...). Figure 9A and 23 Therefore, during normal operation, fluid can pass through exhaust valves 100, 200, and 300. Membranes 122, 222, and 322 prevent liquids (such as water) from entering housing E. When piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 are mounted on valve housings 102, 202, and 302, fluid flows between housing E and the exhaust flow path VP through piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304, through orifices 114, 214, 314, and 414 defined in the support frames 112, 212, 312, and 412 of valve housings 102, 202, 302, and 402.

[0063] In the event of thermal runaway or other high-pressure events within housing E, pressurized fluid within housing E will pass through at least one of the orifices 114, 214, 314, 414 of valve housings 102, 202, 302, 402 and pressurize pistons 118, 218, 318 to move piston subassemblies 104, 204, 304 to the open position (e.g., see...). Figure 10 , 11 (and 24). Moving piston subassemblies 104, 204, 304 to the open position releases piston subassemblies 104, 204, 304 from valve bodies 102, 202, 302, 402, thereby creating a flow path TP that does not pass through membranes 122, 222, 322 (see, for example, see 24). Figure 10 and 24 Therefore, the flow path TP has a smaller throttling effect than the exhaust flow path VP. The pressurized fluid passes through the valve housings 102, 202, 302, 402 and the piston subassemblies 103, 204, 304 along the smaller throttling flow path TP.

[0064] In some implementations, valves 100, 200, and 300 may undergo production line leak testing before installation onto housing E to ensure there is no leakage through gasket G2. In this case, the bore 324 of piston 318 is covered during the leak check test. In some examples, the bore 324 of piston 318 is located on piston 318 such that bore 324 is aligned with bore 314 of support frame 312 to facilitate covering (e.g., see...). Figure 19 and 26 When piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 are closed, apply pressure to one end of valves 100, 200, and 300 at piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304, and observe the pressure difference at the other end of valves 100, 200, and 300.

[0065] According to certain aspects of this disclosure, piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 can be moved to the open position using a tool to allow system leak checks (i.e., line-end leak checks) to be performed via vent valves 100, 200, and 300 after they are installed on housing E. As described above, moving piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 to the open position opens a smaller throttle flow path TP. Piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 can be covered, allowing pressurized fluid to enter housing E along flow path TP during leak checks. Alternatively, fluid can be discharged from housing E along flow path TP during leak checks to create a vacuum within housing E. Therefore, line-end leak checks can be performed on housing E after vent valves 100, 200, and 300 are installed on housing E to ensure that gasket G1 is leak-free.

[0066] In some embodiments, piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 can be manually moved to an open position for leak checking using a tool. In other embodiments, piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 can be automatically moved to an open position for leak checking using a tool. In some embodiments, the covers 120, 220, and 320 of piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 include engaging members 136, 236, and 336 to which a tool T can be attached (e.g., see...). Figure 24 For example, engaging elements 136, 236, and 336 may define a hole through which the hook or other engaging surface of tool T can extend.

[0067] In some examples, engagement member 336 includes a protrusion 335 that at least partially surrounds region 339. The protrusion 335 defines a channel 337 through which the engagement surface of tool T can slide when tool T is positioned in region 339. In one example, channel 337 may be curved so that the tool engagement surface enters channel 337 by rotation. Tool T can then be used to pull open piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 via covers 120, 220, and 320. In some examples, cover 320 may include multiple engagement members 336 (e.g., see...). Figure 18 and 22 For example, tool T may include multiple engagement surfaces, each engagement surface clamping one of the engaging members 336 (e.g., see...). Figure 24 ).

[0068] As described above, piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 include hydrophobic membranes 122, 222, and 322 disposed between pistons 118, 218, and 318 and caps 120, 220, and 320. In some embodiments, membranes 122 and 322 are welded between pistons 118, 218, and 318 and caps 120, 220, and 320. In some embodiments, membranes 122, 222, and 322 are sandwiched or pressed between pistons 118, 218, and 318 and caps 120, 220, and 320. In some embodiments, membranes 122, 222, and 322 are bonded to either pistons 118, 218, and 318 or caps 120, 220, and 320.

[0069] In some embodiments, pistons 118, 218, and 318 include first interface rings 138 and 338, and caps 120, 220, and 320 include second interface rings 140 and 340, respectively, surrounding their respective bias portions 142 and 144 (see, for example, see...). Figure 7 In some examples, pistons 118, 218, 318 and caps 120, 220, 320 are joined together on interface rings 138, 338, 140, 340. In some embodiments, bias portions 142, 144 are offset from membranes 122, 222, 322, respectively, to provide fluid flow space above and below membranes 122, 222, 322. In some embodiments, piston 318 defines a plurality of bias portions 341, 342, namely a first bias portion 341 that assists in defining flow space above membrane 322 and a second offset portion 342 that assists in defining flow space below membrane 322 (e.g., see...). Figure 23 ).

[0070] In some embodiments, pistons 118, 218, 318 and / or caps 120, 220, 320 may define support structures to support or abut against hydrophobic membranes 122, 222, 322 and prevent them from excessively bending. For example, piston 318 includes a support ring 348 (e.g., a continuous ring or a series of protrusions) on which membrane 322 extends. The support ring 348 can inhibit excessive bending of membrane 322 toward housing E during exhaust flow, thereby inhibiting damage to membranes 122, 222, 322. In some embodiments, the support ring (e.g., a continuous ring or a series of protrusions) can extend downward from caps 120, 220, 320 toward membranes 122, 222, 322 to inhibit bending of the membrane toward caps 120, 220, 320. Therefore, the support rings of caps 120, 220, 320 can prevent membranes 122, 222, 322 from being damaged by excessive bending during high-pressure events.

[0071] In some embodiments, at least one hole 124, 224, 324 passing through pistons 118, 218, 318 is defined by biasing portions 142, 342. In some embodiments, at least one hole 124, 224, 324 includes a plurality of holes 124, 224, 324 extending through the biasing portions 142, 342. In some examples, the holes 124, 224, 324 are spaced apart along the periphery of the biasing portions 142, 342.

[0072] In some embodiments, at least one hole 126, 226, 326 defined by the cover members 120, 220, 320 is defined by a transition surface 146, 346 extending between the biasing portions 142, 342 and the interface portions 140, 340 (see, for example, see...). Figure 22 In some examples, at least one orifice 126, 226, 326 includes a plurality of orifices 126, 226, 326 extending along transition surfaces 146, 346. Providing orifices 126, 226, 326 on transition surfaces 146, 346 facilitates the discharge of liquid from vent valves 100, 200, 300. For example, vent valves 100, 200, 300 may be arranged on a sidewall of housing E (e.g., see...). Figure 17 This causes at least some of the holes 126, 226, and 326 to face downwards. Therefore, gravity helps to direct the liquid to be discharged towards holes 126, 226, and 326.

[0073] Arranging the orifices 126, 226, and 326 on the transition surfaces 146 and 346 also reduces the risk of fluid splashing into the orifices 126, 226, and 326 during use. In some examples, the transition surfaces 146 and 336 are inclined relative to the membranes 122, 222, and 322. Therefore, the orifices 126, 226, and 326 are also inclined. In some embodiments, the orifices extend further along the circumference of the transition surfaces 146 and 346 and then along the height of the transition surfaces 146 and 346. In some embodiments, a splash deflector 370 extends into each orifice 326 to further suppress the splash path SP from extending outside the piston subassemblies 104, 204, and 304 and between the membranes 122, 222, and 322 (e.g., see...). Figure 25 In one example, the splash deflector 370 may be integrally formed with the caps 120, 220, and 320. In some examples, the hole 326 is formed by punching a hole in a cap 320 to form a flange. The punched flange extends into the hole 326 to form the splash deflector 370.

[0074] In some embodiments, the protrusion 335 of the missed engagement member 336 can also serve as a splash deflector. For example, the channel 337 defined by the protrusion 335 can be oriented toward region 339. In some examples, the protrusion 336 overlaps perpendicularly with the portion 339 to suppress the splash path SP (e.g., see...). Figure 25 ).

[0075] In some embodiments, piston subassemblies 104, 204, 304 include piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372 extending outwardly from pistons 118, 218, 318. In some examples, piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372 are fixedly coupled to pistons 118, 218, 318. In one example, piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372 are welded or otherwise attached to pistons 118, 218, 318. In another example, piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372 are integrally formed with pistons 118, 218, 318. In some embodiments, piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372 are attached to pistons 118, 218, 318 using a rotary forging process.

[0076] Piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372 extend from pistons 118, 218, 318 to their distal ends 130, 230, 330, 430. When piston subassemblies 104, 204, 304 are mounted to valve bodies 102, 202, 302, 402, piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372 extend through support frames 112, 212, 312, 412, such that the distal ends 130, 230, 330, 430 of piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372 are spaced apart from the second main sides 110, 210, 310, 410 of valve bodies 102, 202, 302, 402. In some embodiments, biasing members 106, 206, 306 apply a biasing force between the second main sides 110, 210, 310, 410 of valve housings 102, 202, 302, 402 and the distal ends 130, 230, 330, 430 of piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372.

[0077] According to certain aspects of this disclosure, particulate traps 132, 232, 432 are coupled to or included in valve housings 102, 202, 302, 402 to suppress solid particles (e.g., fragments) from exiting housing E through exhaust valves 100, 200, 300. In some embodiments, particulate traps 132, 232, 332 extend over a portion of the second main sides 110, 210, 310 of valve housings 102, 202, 302 (e.g., see...). Figure 13 and 16For example, particulate traps 132, 232, 332 extend into at least one aperture 114, 214, 314 of the support frames 112, 212, 312. Therefore, fluid flowing from inside the housing E toward the exhaust valves 100, 200, 300 passes through particulate traps 132, 232 before reaching at least one aperture 114, 214, 314. In other embodiments, the support frame 412 forms particulate trap 432 (e.g., see...). Figure 31 and 32 For example, the support frame 412 defines a plurality of apertures 414 for limiting the size of solid particles that can pass through the support frame 412 to reach the piston subassemblies 102, 202, 302.

[0078] In some examples, particulate traps 132, 232, 432 include wire mesh 134, 234. In other examples, particulate traps 132, 232, 432 include a porous metal cap (e.g., a metal stamping). In some embodiments, biasing members 106, 206, 306 are disposed between particulate traps 132, 232 and a second main side 110, 210, 310 of valve housings 102, 202, 302. In other embodiments, particulate traps 132, 232 can be assembled onto valve housings 102, 202, 302 using piston guides 128, 228, 328, 372. In some examples, particulate trap 132, together with biasing member 106, can be assembled onto valve housing 102 using the same or similar mounting techniques as described in detail herein. In other examples, particulate trap 432 may be integrally formed with valve housing 402.

[0079] Figure 1-13 A first embodiment of an exhaust valve 100 configured according to the principles described herein is shown. Figure 18-24 A third embodiment of an exhaust valve 300 configured according to the principles described herein is shown. Exhaust valves 100 and 300 each have a first-type biasing member 106 and 306 including leaf springs 150 and 350. Leaf springs 150 and 350 include intermediate portions 152 and 352, first deformable portions 154 and 354 (i.e., first blades), and second deformable portions 156 and 356 (i.e., second blades). The intermediate portions 152 and 352 of leaf springs 150 and 350 are fixedly coupled (e.g., snap-fit, swedged, welded, hot-pinned, friction-fitted, etc.) to the distal ends 130, 330, and 430 of piston guides 128, 328, and 372. Therefore, the middle portions 152 and 352 of the leaf springs 150 and 350 move synchronously with the piston subassemblies 104 and 304. When the piston subassemblies 104 and 304 move to the open position, the middle portions 152 and 352 are pulled toward the support frames 112 and 312.

[0080] The first and second deformable portions 154, 354, 156, 356 bend (e.g., along a movable hinge) or deform to move the intermediate portions 152, 352 toward the valve housings 102, 302. Specifically, the distal ends 155, 355 of the first and second deformable portions 154, 354, 156, 356 slide laterally along the second main sides 110, 310 of the valve housings 102, 302 (e.g., see...). Figure 12 and 24 In some embodiments, the support frames 112, 312 of the valve housings 102, 302 define spring-stopped platforms 160, 360, on which the distal ends 155, 355 of the first and second deformable portions 154, 354, 156, 356 are joined (see, for example, see...). Figure 4 and 23 During the movement of piston subassemblies 104 and 304, the distal ends 155 and 355 of deformable portions 154, 354, 156, and 356 slide on spring-stopped platforms 160 and 360. In some examples, protrusions 162 and 362 are provided on the spring-stopped platforms 160 and 360 to guide the deformable portions 154, 354, 156, and 356 along the spring-stopped platforms 160 and 360. In some examples, protrusions 162 and 362 may inhibit the rotation of leaf springs 150 and 350 about piston guides 128, 328, and 372.

[0081] Figure 14-16 A second embodiment of an exhaust valve 200 configured according to the principles described herein is shown. The exhaust valve 200 has a second type of biasing member 206 including a coil spring 250. The coil spring 250 has a first end abutting against a second main side 210 of the valve housing 202. The coil spring 250 has a second end abutting against a spring stop 252 defined on the distal end 230 of the piston guide 228. Therefore, the coil spring 250 biases the piston subassembly 204 toward a closed position.

[0082] In some embodiments, the helical spring 250 may be composed of a cage 260 (e.g., see [link]). Figure 15 Protection. For example, the retainer 260 may be part of or mounted on the spring stop 252. In the event of thermal runaway or other high-pressure events, the retainer 260 protects the helical spring 250 by preventing debris from interfering with it. In the example shown, the retainer 260 is small enough not to block one or more holes 114 through the support frame 112. Figure 16 As shown, a particle trap 232 can be used instead of a retainer 260.

[0083] Figure 26-27An alternative embodiment 372 of the piston guide 328 is shown, applicable to any exhaust valve 100, 200, 300 disclosed herein. The piston guide 372 is formed of a plurality of interconnected components. In one example, the piston guide 372 includes a self-locking fastener structure. In the example shown, the piston guide 372 includes a base 374 and a fastener 378. The base 374 extends outwardly from the piston subassembly 304. The base 374 defines an internal space 376. A portion of the fastener 378 is inserted into the internal space 376 to secure the fastener 378 to the base 374. For example, a portion of the fastener 378 may extend into the internal space 376. In some examples, a biasing member 306 may be secured (e.g., clamped) between the base 374 and the fastener 378 (e.g., see...). Figure 27 Alternatively, the distal end 330 of the solid piston guide 328 may be forged, welded, or otherwise fixed to the bias member 306.

[0084] Figures 28-30 Alternative embodiments 380 of the support frames 112, 212, 312 are shown, applicable to any exhaust valve 100, 200, 300 disclosed herein. Support frame 380 is substantially similar to support frame 312 except for the addition of a protective member 382 extending onto the bias member 306. In some examples, the protective member 382 is used when the bias members 106, 306 are leaf springs 150, 350. In some embodiments, the protective member 382 extends from the strut of support frame 312 toward the distal end 330 of piston guides 328, 372. For example, when cutting holes 314 to form support frame 312, the stamped portion of valve housing 302 can be bent downwards to form the protective member 382, ​​rather than being completely removed from housing 302. In some examples, the protective member 382 extends past the middle portion 352 of leaf spring 350. In some examples, the protective member 382 may protect bias member 306 during transport. In some examples, the protective element 382 may prevent debris or other structures from occupying the space between the leaf spring 350 and the second main side 310 of the valve housing 302, thereby allowing the leaf spring 350 to move freely even during high-pressure events.

[0085] An example implementation of the exhaust valve is as follows:

[0086] Aspect 1. A vent valve configured to be mounted to a battery housing at an opening defined in the battery housing, the vent valve comprising:

[0087] A valve housing having a first main side and a second main side, the valve housing being configured to be mounted to a battery housing such that the first main side faces away from the battery housing and the second main side faces the battery housing, the valve housing including a support frame defining at least one hole;

[0088] A piston subassembly is mounted to the first main side of the valve housing such that it is positioned above a support frame. The piston subassembly is movable relative to the valve housing between a closed position and an open position. When positioned in the closed position, the piston subassembly seals against the first main side of the valve housing to form a sealing area.

[0089] A biasing element is configured to apply a biasing force between the piston subassembly and the second main side of the valve housing, such that the biasing element pulls the piston subassembly to the closed position.

[0090] Aspect 2. The exhaust valve of aspect 1, wherein the biasing element includes a leaf spring.

[0091] Aspect 3. The exhaust valve of aspect 2, wherein the protective element extends downward from the support frame to extend past the offset element.

[0092] Aspect 4. The exhaust valve of aspect 1, wherein the biasing element includes a helical spring.

[0093] Aspect 5. The exhaust valve of aspect 4 further includes a retainer extending outward from the valve housing, a helical spring disposed within the retainer, the retainer being sized and positioned not to obstruct at least one hole defined through a support surface.

[0094] Aspect 6. The exhaust valve of any of Aspects 1-5 further includes a particulate trap extending outward from the valve housing to define a protected area, wherein at least one hole defined in the support surface leads to the protected area.

[0095] Aspect 7. The exhaust valve of aspect 6, wherein the biasing element is disposed within the protection zone of the particle trap.

[0096] Aspect 8. The exhaust valve of aspect 1, wherein the piston sub-assembly is sealed to the valve body using an internal seal.

[0097] Aspect 9. The exhaust valve of aspect 8, wherein the inner seal is mounted to the valve body; and the piston sub-assembly moves relative to the inner seal when it moves between the closed position and the open position.

[0098] Aspect 10. The exhaust valve of aspect 8, wherein the inner seal is mounted on the piston subassembly and moves with the piston subassembly as the piston subassembly moves between the closed position and the open position.

[0099] Aspect 11. An exhaust valve of any of Aspects 1-10, wherein the piston subassembly carries a hydrophobic membrane.

[0100] Aspect 12. An exhaust valve of aspect 11, wherein the piston subassembly includes a piston and a cover, each of the piston and the cover defining at least one hole through which it passes.

[0101] Aspect 13. The exhaust valve of aspect 12, wherein at least one hole defined by a cover is angled to enhance drainage.

[0102] Aspect 14. The exhaust valve of aspect 12, wherein the splash deflector extends into the orifice to suppress the direct splash path between the orifice and the hydrophobic film.

[0103] The exhaust valve of aspect 15. aspect 12, wherein the piston and the cover clamp the hydrophobic membrane between them to fix the hydrophobic membrane.

[0104] Aspect 16. The exhaust valve of aspect 12, wherein the hydrophobic film adheres to the piston subassembly.

[0105] Aspect 17. An exhaust valve of aspect 11, wherein a piston subassembly includes a piston guide extending outward from a piston, through a support frame, across a second main side of the valve housing, and to a distal end of the piston guide; and wherein a biasing member applies a biasing force between the second main side of the valve housing and the distal end of the piston guide.

[0106] The exhaust valve of aspect 18. aspect 17, wherein the biasing member is fixed to the distal end of the piston guide by a pendulum forging.

[0107] The exhaust valve of aspect 19.17, wherein a self-locking fastener structure is used to secure the bias member to the distal end of the piston guide.

[0108] Aspect 20. An exhaust valve of any of Aspects 1-19, wherein the piston subassembly includes an engaging element; wherein the piston subassembly can be moved to an open position using a tool connected to the engaging element to perform a system leak check via or through the exhaust valve.

[0109] Aspect 21. An exhaust valve of any of aspects 1-20, wherein a lip extends along at least a portion of the circumferential edge of the valve housing such that the lip extends through a fastener hole defined in the valve housing.

[0110] Aspect 22. An exhaust valve of any of aspects 1-21, wherein the valve housing is formed of stamped metal.

[0111] Aspect 23. The exhaust valve of aspect 22, wherein a portion of the piston subassembly is formed of plastic.

[0112] Aspect 24. An exhaust valve configured to be mounted on a battery housing at an opening defined in the battery housing, the exhaust valve comprising:

[0113] valve housing;

[0114] A piston subassembly mounted to a valve housing, the piston subassembly being movable relative to the valve housing between a closed position and an open position, the piston subassembly including a piston guide extending through the valve housing to a distal end of the piston guide;

[0115] A biasing member mounted at the distal end of the piston guide, the biasing member being configured to apply a biasing force between the piston subassembly and the valve housing, such that the biasing member pulls the piston subassembly to a closed position; and

[0116] A protective structure extending downwards from the valve body to at least partially cover the biasing element.

[0117] Aspect 25. The exhaust valve of aspect 24, wherein the protection structure includes a particulate trap extending across the bias member and the distal end of the piston guide.

[0118] Aspect 26. The exhaust valve of aspect 24, wherein the protective structure includes a flange extending downward from the valve housing toward the distal end of the piston guide to cover the side of the bias member.

[0119] The exhaust valve of aspect 27 and aspect 26, wherein the flange is integrally formed with the valve housing.

[0120] The exhaust valve of aspect 28 and aspect 27, wherein the flange forms a support frame through a stamped valve housing.

[0121] Aspect 29. An exhaust valve configured to be mounted on a battery housing at an opening defined in the battery housing, the exhaust valve comprising:

[0122] Includes a valve housing surrounding an outer portion of a support frame, the outer portion defining a fastener opening;

[0123] A piston subassembly is mounted on a support frame to the valve housing. The piston subassembly is movable relative to the valve housing between a closed position and an open position. The piston subassembly carries a hydrophobic membrane within itself. The piston subassembly defines multiple windows leading to the interior, and splash deflectors extend into each window to suppress a direct splash path between the exterior of the piston subassembly and the hydrophobic membrane.

[0124] A biasing element configured to bias the piston subassembly toward the closed position.

[0125] The exhaust valve of aspect 30 and aspect 29, wherein the splash deflector includes a tab stamped into the piston subassembly to form a window.

[0126] The exhaust valve of aspect 31. aspect 29, wherein the window is at an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the plane of the membrane.

[0127] Aspect 32. An exhaust valve of aspect 29, wherein the valve housing has a convex lip extending along at least a portion of the outer portion.

[0128] The exhaust valve of aspect 33. aspect 29, wherein the piston subassembly includes a piston and a cover, the cover defining a window.

[0129] Aspect 34. An exhaust valve of aspect 33, wherein the valve body comprises stamped steel with an electroplated coating; and wherein the piston is formed of stamped steel with a corresponding electroplated coating, such that when the valve body is mounted at a hole in the housing, the stamped steel extends through the hole in the housing.

[0130] The exhaust valve of aspect 35. aspect 34, wherein the cover is made of plastic.

[0131] The exhaust valve of aspect 36 and aspect 29, wherein the leak detection engagement is carried by the piston subassembly and can be contacted from the outside of the piston subassembly.

[0132] The exhaust valve of aspect 37. aspect 36, wherein the leakage detection engagement forms a splash deflector to suppress the direct splash path to the membrane disposed within the piston subassembly.

[0133] Having described the preferred aspects and embodiments of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will readily make modifications and equivalents to the disclosed concepts. However, such modifications and equivalents should be included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vent valve configured to be mounted to a battery housing at an opening defined in the battery housing, the vent valve comprising: A valve housing having a first main side and a second main side, the valve housing being configured to be mounted to a battery housing such that the first main side faces away from the battery housing and the second main side faces the battery housing, the valve housing including a support frame defining at least one hole. A piston sub-assembly is mounted to the first main side of the valve housing such that the piston sub-assembly is arranged above the support frame. The piston sub-assembly is movable relative to the valve housing between a closed position and an open position. When the piston sub-assembly is arranged in the closed position, it seals to the first main side of the valve housing to form a sealing area. as well as The biasing element is configured to apply a biasing force between the piston subassembly and the second main side of the valve housing, such that the biasing element pulls the piston subassembly to the closed position.

2. The exhaust valve of claim 1, wherein the biasing element comprises a leaf spring.

3. The exhaust valve of claim 2, wherein the protective member extends downward from the support frame to extend beyond the bias member.

4. The exhaust valve according to claim 2, wherein a protrusion is provided on the spring stop platform to guide the deformable section of the bias member along the spring stop platform, the protrusion inhibiting the leaf spring from rotating about the piston guide.

5. The exhaust valve of claim 1, wherein the piston subassembly includes a piston and a cover carrying a hydrophobic membrane, each piston and cover defining at least one through-hole therethrough.

6. The exhaust valve of claim 5, wherein the splash deflector extends into the orifice to suppress a direct splash path between the orifice and the hydrophobic film.

7. The exhaust valve of claim 5, wherein the piston subassembly includes a piston guide extending outwardly from the piston, passing through the support frame, across the second main side of the valve housing, and reaching the distal end of the piston guide; and wherein a biasing member applies a biasing force between the second main side of the valve housing and the distal end of the piston guide.

8. The exhaust valve according to claim 7, wherein, The valve body comprises stamped steel with an electroplated coating; and wherein the piston is formed of stamped steel with a corresponding electroplated coating, such that when the valve body is mounted at a hole in the housing, the stamped steel extends through the hole in the housing.

9. The exhaust valve according to claim 8, wherein the cover is made of plastic.

10. The exhaust valve of claim 1, wherein the piston subassembly includes an engaging element; wherein the piston subassembly is movable to an open position using a tool connected to the engaging element to perform a system leak check via or through the exhaust valve.

11. The exhaust valve of claim 1, wherein the raised lip extends along at least a portion of the circumferential edge of the valve housing such that the raised lip extends through a fastener hole defined in the valve housing.

12. The exhaust valve of claim 1, wherein the biasing element comprises a helical spring.

13. The exhaust valve of claim 12, further comprising a retainer extending outward from the valve housing, a helical spring disposed within the retainer, the retainer being sized and positioned to not block at least one hole defining a support surface.

14. The exhaust valve according to any one of claims 1, 2, 12 or 13, further comprising a particulate trap extending outward from the valve housing to define a protected zone, wherein at least one hole defined in the support surface leads to the protected zone.

15. The exhaust valve of claim 14, wherein the biasing element is disposed within the protection zone of the particle trap.

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