Venting device for a battery pack

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a top cover for a battery pack configured to attach to a battery pack including a plurality of battery arrays and configured to substantially enclose the battery arrays within the battery pack. The top cover includes a first wall and a second wall separated from one another by at least one sidewall, the top cover configured such that the top cover is hollow and the top cover includes at least one vent inlet and at least one vent outlet aperture to atmosphere such that the top cover provides a fluid flow path between the at least one vent inlet and the at least one vent outlet aperture.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery packs, and more specifically, to a top cover for a battery pack, a battery pack, and a vehicle including a battery pack, designed to effectively vent gases during individual battery cell emission events. Background Technology

[0002] Battery packs are widely used as power sources in a variety of applications, including electric vehicles, portable electronic devices, and energy storage systems. These battery packs typically consist of multiple individual battery cells arranged in an array and connected to form a high-capacity power unit. As the demand for batteries with higher energy density and greater durability increases, manufacturers are continuously developing more advanced battery technologies.

[0003] One aspect of battery pack design is managing potential thermal events. In some cases, individual battery cells may experience a rise in temperature, leading to a phenomenon known as thermal runaway. During thermal runaway, gases and particulate matter can be rapidly released from the affected battery cells.

[0004] Furthermore, the complex internal structure of the battery pack (including busbars, terminals, and other electrical connections) may hinder the effective venting of gases. Additionally, it is desirable to protect the electrical components of the battery pack from exposure to hot, potentially conductive gases and particulate matter released during cell emissions. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention is provided to introduce selected concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in the following detailed description.

[0006] In a first aspect, a top cover for a battery pack is provided. The top cover is configured to attach to a battery pack comprising a plurality of battery arrays and is configured to substantially enclose the battery arrays within the battery pack. The top cover includes a first wall and a second wall, the first wall and the second wall being spaced apart from each other by at least one side wall, and the top cover is configured such that the top cover is hollow. The top cover includes at least one discharge inlet and at least one discharge outlet orifice opening to the atmosphere, such that the top cover provides a fluid flow path between the at least one discharge inlet and the at least one discharge outlet orifice.

[0007] This top cover design provides an effective means of managing gases emitted from the battery array while maintaining a sealed environment within the battery pack. The hollow construction with dedicated fluid flow paths allows for controlled gas release.

[0008] The second wall of the top cover may be approximately adjacent to the cover surface of multiple battery arrays.

[0009] Positioning the second wall adjacent to the battery array ensures efficient gas collection from the array and minimizes the distance the gas needs to travel to enter the fluid flow path.

[0010] The at least one discharge inlet may pass through the second wall.

[0011] This configuration allows gas to enter the fluid flow path directly from the battery array.

[0012] The at least one discharge inlet may be a rigid tubular structure extending into the fluid flow path.

[0013] Rigid tubular structures provide a durable and regular path for gas to enter the fluid flow path.

[0014] Each of the at least one emission inlet may include a ruptured area.

[0015] The inclusion of a rupture zone in the emission inlet allows for the controlled release of gas under high pressure conditions.

[0016] Each fracture zone may include a fragile section.

[0017] The fracturing section ensures that the rupture point used for pressure relief is predictable and reliable.

[0018] The fragility section can be configured to rupture at a predetermined pressure level.

[0019] This feature allows for precise control over when additional emissions occur, thereby optimizing the balance between sealing and pressure relief.

[0020] The at least one discharge inlet may include a one-way valve.

[0021] One-way valves prevent gas from flowing back into the battery array, thereby maintaining the integrity of the emission system and protecting battery components.

[0022] The top cover can form the array top cover of the corresponding battery array within the battery pack.

[0023] This integrated design simplifies the overall structure of the battery pack and ensures that the emission performance of all arrays is consistent.

[0024] The second wall can form the top surface of the corresponding battery array within the battery pack.

[0025] By forming the top surface of the battery array, the second wall provides a direct interface for gas emission.

[0026] Each corresponding battery array can be fluidly connected to a separate hollow section of the top cover.

[0027] This configuration allows for independent emissions from each battery array.

[0028] Each corresponding battery array may include a separate discharge inlet into a corresponding separate hollow section of the top cover.

[0029] Providing each array with a separate emission inlet ensures a dedicated emission path, thereby further enhancing the system's ability to manage gases released from each array.

[0030] The opposing surfaces of the first and second walls may be coated with silicate minerals.

[0031] The surface was coated with silicate minerals to enhance the heat resistance and electrical insulation of the top cover.

[0032] In a second aspect, a battery pack is provided that includes a top cover as described in the first aspect and at least one battery array.

[0033] This integrated battery pack design incorporates advanced emissions performance in the top cover.

[0034] In a third aspect, a vehicle is provided that includes the battery pack of the second aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the following accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1 A battery pack including a top cover as described herein is shown;

[0037] Figure 2 A battery pack including another top cover as described herein is shown; and

[0038] Figure 3 A vehicle including a battery pack, which includes a top cover as described herein, is shown.

[0039] Use common reference numerals throughout the accompanying drawings to indicate similar features. Detailed Implementation

[0040] This disclosure relates to battery packs, and more specifically, to a top cover for a battery pack designed to effectively vent gases during individual cell emission events. Battery packs typically comprise multiple individual cells arranged in an array and connected to form a high-capacity power unit. With the increasing demand for batteries with higher energy density and greater durability, managing potential thermal events is becoming increasingly important.

[0041] In some cases, a single battery cell may experience a rise in temperature, leading to a phenomenon known as thermal runaway. During such an event, hot gases may be released from the battery cell.

[0042] The top cover described herein provides a solution for managing gases released during individual battery cell emission events. The top cover is configured to attach to the battery pack and substantially enclose the battery array within the battery pack. The top cover includes features that form a controlled path for the emitted gases, thereby guiding the emitted gases away from the components and out of the battery pack.

[0043] The battery pack may include a top cover and at least one battery array. The combination of the top cover and the battery array forms an integrated unit designed to effectively manage thermal events and emitted gases.

[0044] In some examples, the vehicle may include a battery pack with a top cover. The top cover is configured to attach to the battery pack and substantially enclose the battery array within the battery pack. The top cover includes a first wall and a second wall spaced apart from each other by at least one sidewall, such that the top cover is hollow.

[0045] The top cover can be formed using silicate minerals. In some examples, the silicate mineral is mica. Mica provides properties that can be beneficial for use in battery pack environments, such as heat resistance and electrical insulation.

[0046] The top cover can be configured to seal to the periphery of the battery pack. This seal helps to contain gases within a designated flow path of the top cover. In some examples, the top cover can be attached to the top surface of the array forming the battery pack.

[0047] The opposing surfaces of the first and second walls may be coated with silicate minerals. This coating provides additional thermal and electrical insulation to the inner surface of the top cover.

[0048] In some examples, the top cover can be integrated as a separate, fixed component into other locations within the battery pack, without forming the topmost surface. This configuration allows for flexibility in battery pack design while still providing the gas management benefits of the top cover.

[0049] During installation, the second wall of the top cover can be approximately adjacent to the cover surface of the multiple battery arrays. This proximity allows gas to be efficiently transported from the arrays into the hollow interior of the top cover.

[0050] In some configurations, the top cover can be partitioned to provide dedicated exhaust vents to each array row. This partitioning helps to isolate exhaust gases from different arrays.

[0051] A cover plate may be included as a component of the battery pack assembly. In some examples, the cover plate has a silicate layer on its inner surface. This silicate layer provides additional thermal protection and thermal insulation to the battery pack components.

[0052] Figure 1A battery pack 250 is shown. The battery pack 250 may include a top cover 110. In some cases, the top cover 110 may be configured to attach to the battery pack 250 and substantially enclose the battery array within the battery pack 250. The top cover 110 may include a first wall 115 and a second wall 125. The first wall 115 and the second wall 125 may be spaced apart from each other to define a hollow portion 120 between the first wall 115 and the second wall 125.

[0053] Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of the battery pack 250, including the top cover 110, is shown. Figure 1 As shown, within the battery pack 250, a top cover 110 may be positioned above the battery array. A second wall 125 of the top cover 110 may be substantially adjacent to the top surface of the battery array.

[0054] In some cases, the top cover 110 can be designed to accommodate battery cells of different shapes and sizes. This design flexibility allows for more customized top cover shapes to suit specific battery applications. The hollow portion 120 of the top cover 110 can be used as a dedicated space for managing gas emissions during battery cell emission events.

[0055] The battery pack 250 may include a top cover 110 and at least one battery array. The top cover 110 may play a key role in the overall structure and functionality of the battery pack 250, thereby providing both encapsulation capability and gas management capability.

[0056] The top cover 110 of the battery pack 250 may include a first wall 115 and a second wall 125. In some cases, the first wall 115 and the second wall 125 may be spaced apart from each other by at least one sidewall, thereby forming a hollow portion 120 between the first wall 115 and the second wall 125. This configuration allows the top cover 110 to be hollow, thereby providing dedicated space for gas management.

[0057] like Figure 1 As depicted, the hollow portion 120 extends between the first wall 115 and the second wall 125, thereby forming a fluid flow path 190 within the hollow portion. This fluid flow path 190 within the hollow portion allows exhaust gas to move within the top cover 110.

[0058] In some cases, the top cover 110 may include a fluid flow path 195. The fluid flow path 195 may extend below the second wall 125, pass through the second wall 125, and enter the hollow portion 120. This configuration allows gases emitted from the battery array to enter the hollow portion 120 and flow along the fluid flow path 190 within the hollow portion.

[0059] The hollow portion 120 of the top cover 110 can be designed to manage and guide the flow of exhaust gases. In some cases, the hollow portion 120 can be partitioned to reduce heat transfer from the void space to the non-emission array. This partitioning can help prevent emissions in one area of ​​the battery pack 250 from affecting other areas.

[0060] In some cases, the opposing surfaces of the first wall 115 and the second wall 125 may be coated with silicate minerals. This coating may provide additional thermal protection or other beneficial properties to the top cover 110.

[0061] In some cases, flame-retardant materials may be used in the hollow portion 120 of the top cover 110.

[0062] The top cover 110 may include at least one discharge inlet 140 and at least one discharge outlet opening to the atmosphere. In some cases, the top cover 110 may provide a fluid flow path between at least one discharge inlet 140 and at least one discharge outlet opening.

[0063] like Figure 1 As depicted, the discharge inlet 140 can pass through the second wall 125 of the top cover 110. This configuration allows gas to enter the hollow portion 120 of the top cover 110 from the battery array 180.

[0064] In some cases, the discharge inlet 140 may be a rigid tubular structure extending into the fluid flow path 190 within the hollow section. This design can help guide the gas discharged from the battery array 180 into the hollow section 120.

[0065] Each of the emission inlets 140 may include a rupture zone. In some cases, each rupture zone may include a fragile portion. The fragile portion may be configured to rupture at a predetermined pressure level. This feature can help control the entry of gases released from the battery array 180 into the hollow section 120 during an emission event.

[0066] In some cases, the discharge inlet 140 may include a one-way valve. This one-way valve allows gas to flow from the battery array 180 into the hollow section 120 while preventing backflow.

[0067] The exhaust inlet 140 can be designed as a slot or chimney extending from the array in the battery pack 250. This design facilitates efficient flow of gas from the battery array 180 into the hollow portion 120 of the top cover 110.

[0068] Figure 1 A fluid flow path 195 is shown extending from the battery array 180, through the exhaust inlet 140, and into the hollow section 120. This illustration shows how gas can flow from the battery array 180, through the exhaust inlet 140, and into the fluid flow path 190 within the hollow section.

[0069] In some cases, the array top cover 182 may enclose components of the battery array 180. The exhaust inlet 140 may be positioned to allow gas to flow from below the array top cover 182, through the exhaust inlet 140, and into the hollow portion 120 of the top cover 110.

[0070] The battery pack 250 may include other components integrated with the top cover 110 to form a complete battery system. Figure 1 Some of these components and their arrangement within the battery pack 250 are shown.

[0071] In some cases, the battery pack 250 may include a cold plate 170. The cold plate 170 may be positioned below the battery array 180. The cold plate 170 may serve as a thermal management component, thereby helping to control the temperature of the battery array 180 during operation.

[0072] The battery pack 250 may also include a battery pack spanning member 185. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the battery pack cross member 185 can be positioned within the battery pack 250 to provide structural support. The battery pack cross member 185 can help maintain the integrity of the battery pack 250 and support the arrangement of other components.

[0073] The top cover 110 can be designed to be integrated with these components. In some cases, the second wall 125 of the top cover 110 may be substantially adjacent to the cover surface of the multiple battery arrays. This configuration allows for efficient use of space within the battery pack 250 while providing a dedicated area for gas management.

[0074] In some cases, the top cover 110 can form an array top cover for the corresponding battery array within the battery pack 250. This integration allows for a more compact design and efficient use of space within the battery pack 250.

[0075] The second wall 125 of the top cover 110 can form the top surface of the corresponding battery array within the battery pack 250. This configuration allows for direct communication between the battery array 180 and the hollow portion 120 of the top cover 110.

[0076] In some cases, each respective battery array may be in fluid communication with a separate hollow section of the top cover 110. This arrangement allows for the separation of exhaust gases, thereby potentially reducing heat transfer between arrays during an exhaust event.

[0077] Each respective battery array may include a separate discharge inlet 140 leading to each individual hollow section of the top cover 110. This configuration allows for controlled emissions from the individual battery arrays into a dedicated space within the top cover 110.

[0078] The integration of these components (cold plate 170, battery pack spanning member 185, battery array 180, and top cover 110) forms a comprehensive system for battery management, thermal control, and gas handling within the battery pack 250.

[0079] The top cover includes at least one emission inlet and at least one emission outlet opening to the atmosphere. The emission inlet is configured to align with emission holes in the top surface of the array forming the battery pack. This alignment allows for efficient delivery of gas from the array into the top cover during emission events.

[0080] The exhaust inlet can be configured to form a seal around the exhaust orifice in the top surface of the array. This sealing configuration helps ensure that gas is guided through the intended path within the top cover. In some examples, the exhaust inlet can be sealed around the exhaust orifice using heat sealant, adhesive, or mechanical fasteners.

[0081] Each vent inlet may include a rupture zone. The rupture zone is designed to provide controlled venting in the event of excessive pressure within the battery pack. In some examples, each rupture zone includes a fragile portion. The fragile portion may be configured to rupture at a predetermined pressure level, thereby allowing gas to be released from the array into the top cover when a specific threshold is reached.

[0082] The exhaust inlet can be a rigid tubular structure extending into the fluid flow path within the top cover. This construction helps guide the flow of exhaust gases and provides additional structural support to the top cover. In some examples, the exhaust inlet may pass through a second wall of the top cover, which is approximately adjacent to the cover surface of the battery array.

[0083] In some configurations, at least two emission inlets can be aligned with at least two emission ports of a single array. This arrangement can provide enhanced emission capability for larger arrays or arrays with multiple emission points.

[0084] The exhaust inlet may include a one-way valve. These one-way valves allow gas to flow from the array into the top cover but prevent backflow, which helps maintain the integrity of the exhaust system and protects the array from potential contaminants.

[0085] The top cover may include a dedicated valve for gas outlet. This dedicated valve may be located on the top cover or in a separate location away from the battery pack. The dedicated outlet valve works in conjunction with the exhaust inlet to create a controlled flow path for exhaust gas to pass through the top cover and exit the battery pack.

[0086] The design of the vent inlet, rupture zone, and outlet valve within the top cover creates a fluid path from the array to the atmosphere. This path allows for the controlled release of gases during venting events, thus helping to manage thermal events and protect components within the battery pack.

[0087] Figure 2The arrangement of the battery pack 250, including another top cover as described herein, is shown. Figure 2 The battery pack 250 shown may include a top cover 210, which provides information about... Figure 1 The alternative construction of the top cover 110 is described. Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of the battery pack 250 including the top cover 210 is shown.

[0088] In some cases, similar to Figure 1 The configuration shown may include a first wall 215 and a second wall 225 for the top cover 210. However, the top cover 210 may be different in shape or size from the top cover 210. Figure 1 The hollow section 120 depicted in the figure has different hollow sections 220. The hollow section 220 can provide a fluid flow path to the fluid flow 290 within the top cover 210.

[0089] The top cover 210 may include at least one discharge inlet 240. In some cases, the discharge inlet 240 may extend through the second wall 225 and into the hollow portion 220, thereby allowing fluid communication between the battery array 280 and the hollow portion 220. Compared to Figure 1 The emission inlet 140 and emission inlet 240 shown may differ in size, shape or location.

[0090] The battery array 280 may be positioned below the top cover 210. The battery array 280 may include an array top cover 282 that encapsulates the components of the battery array 280. The array top cover 282 may be positioned adjacent to a second wall 225 of the top cover 210.

[0091] In some cases, the top cover 210 can be integrated as a separate mounting component into other locations within the battery pack 250, rather than simply serving as a top cover. This alternative configuration allows for greater flexibility in the design and layout of the battery pack 250.

[0092] The battery pack 250 may include a cold plate 270 located below the battery array 280. The cold plate 270 may serve a function related to... Figure 1 The cold plate 170 described herein has similar functionality, thus providing thermal management for the battery array 280.

[0093] The battery pack spanning member 285 may be included in the battery pack 250, thereby providing a similar effect to... Figure 1 The battery pack spans structural support 185 as shown. Battery pack spans 285 can be positioned as an alternative construction suitable for top cover 210.

[0094] In some cases, the exhaust outlet opening of the top cover 210 may be located on the top cover 210 itself or in a separate location away from the battery pack 250. This flexible positioning of the exhaust outlet opening allows for optimization of gas emissions based on the specific requirements of the battery pack 250 or the vehicle in which the battery pack 250 may be installed.

[0095] Compared to about Figure 1 The fluid flow path 190 within the hollow section 220 described herein may vary depending on the fluid flow path 290 within the hollow section 220. Alternative configurations of the top cover 210 may affect the direction and characteristics of the fluid flow 290, thereby potentially impacting the gas management performance of the battery pack 250.

[0096] The top cover includes terminal holes configured to align with the terminals of the array forming the battery pack. These terminal holes allow for electrical connection to the battery array while maintaining the integrity of the top cover's venting system.

[0097] In some examples, the terminal holes are also configured to form a seal around the array of terminals. This sealing configuration helps prevent gas leakage around the terminals and ensures that exhaust gases are directed through the intended path within the top cover.

[0098] Terminal holes can be combined with additional features to enhance the overall performance of the battery pack. In some configurations, each terminal hole includes a rupture zone. These rupture zones are designed to provide additional pathways for pressure release, if required. The rupture zones in the terminal holes can be configured to rupture at a predetermined pressure level, thereby allowing controlled gas release near the terminals if necessary.

[0099] The terminal holes include rupture zones that provide multiple paths for pressure release, thereby enhancing the overall venting performance of the top cover. These features are designed to work in conjunction with other venting mechanisms on the top cover to direct any released gases toward designated venting areas within the battery pack.

[0100] Terminal holes can be arranged in various configurations depending on the layout of the battery array and its terminals. In some examples, terminal holes can be grouped, with each group corresponding to a specific array or segment of the battery pack. This arrangement allows for efficient electrical connection while maintaining the venting performance of the top cover.

[0101] The top cover provides a fluid flow path between at least one discharge inlet and at least one discharge outlet orifice. This fluid flow path is configured to guide gases released during a single cell discharge event toward a designated discharge orifice within the battery pack. The fluid flow path is formed within a hollow interior of the top cover located between a first wall and a second wall.

[0102] As gas is released from the battery array through the exhaust inlet, it enters a fluid flow path within the top cover. The top cover is constructed to guide this gas along the fluid flow path toward the exhaust outlet orifice. This controlled gas movement helps manage thermal events by directing hot gas away from sensitive components within the battery pack.

[0103] Fluid flow paths can be designed with various features to enhance their effectiveness. For example, the inner surface of the top cover can be shaped or textured to facilitate efficient gas flow. Additionally, baffles or other flow guiding structures can be included within the flow path to direct gas toward the exhaust outlet orifice.

[0104] In some examples, flame-retardant materials may be used in the isolated space formed by the top cover. These flame-retardant materials provide additional protection against thermal events. The flame-retardant material may be applied as a coating to the inner surface of the top cover or incorporated as a separate component within the fluid flow path.

[0105] Using flame-retardant materials in isolated spaces can help suppress or contain potential fires that may occur during extreme emission events. These flame-retardant materials can also help reduce the temperature of emission gases as they move through fluid flow paths.

[0106] The combination of fluid flow path design and the use of flame-retardant materials forms a comprehensive system for managing gases released during cell emission events. This system helps guide gases away from components and out of the battery pack, while also providing additional protection against thermal events.

[0107] The top cover is integrated with the overall battery pack structure to enhance thermal management. The top cover forms the array top cover for the corresponding battery arrays within the battery pack, thus providing a unified structure for encapsulating and protecting the arrays.

[0108] The second wall of the top cover is generally adjacent to the cover surface of the multiple battery arrays. This configuration allows for efficient heat transfer and gas management between the arrays and the top cover. In some examples, the second wall forms the top surface of the corresponding battery array within the battery pack, thereby creating a seamless integration between the arrays and the top cover.

[0109] The top cover includes separate hollow sections corresponding to each individual battery array. Each corresponding battery array is in fluid communication with its own hollow section on the top cover. This separation allows for individual gas management for each array.

[0110] To facilitate gas delivery from the array to the top cover, each respective battery array includes a separate vent inlet for each individual hollow section of the top cover. These vent inlets provide a dedicated path for gas to enter the hollow section of the top cover during a venting event.

[0111] The integration of the top cover with the battery pack structure forms a comprehensive system for managing thermal events and venting gases. The top cover works in conjunction with other components of the battery pack, such as the cover plate and vent holes, to guide and expel gases along a controlled path from the battery pack.

[0112] This integrated design enhances the battery pack's thermal management performance by providing dedicated space for gas expansion and controlled emissions. The top cover's partition structure allows for localized management of thermal events.

[0113] Controlled gas pathways and dedicated vents help prevent pressure build-up within the battery pack during emission events. This pressure management minimizes the possibility of uncontrolled gas releases.

[0114] In some examples, the top cover may incorporate additional features. These features may include thermal barriers between compartments, pressure relief mechanisms, or sensors for monitoring conditions within the hollow portion of the top cover.

[0115] The integration of the top cover with the battery pack structure allows for a holistic approach to thermal management. By incorporating the top cover as part of the battery pack design, manufacturers can create more efficient and effective systems for managing individual cell emission events and enhancing overall battery pack performance.

[0116] The top cover of the battery pack works in conjunction with various components to effectively manage gas emissions during individual cell emission events. The hollow structure of the top cover, formed by the first wall, second wall, and sidewalls, creates a dedicated space for gas flow. This space serves as a controlled path for the emitted gases, guiding them away from sensitive components within the battery pack.

[0117] The vent inlets in the top cover are aligned with the vent holes in the battery array. When a cell venting event occurs, the gas released from the array enters the hollow interior of the top cover through these vent inlets. The vent inlets may be constructed with features such as one-way valves or rupture zones to help control gas flow into the top cover.

[0118] Once inside the top cover, the gas follows a fluid flow path created by the internal structure. This fluid flow path guides the gas toward one or more exhaust outlet holes. The design of the fluid flow path can incorporate features such as baffles or textured surfaces to facilitate efficient gas movement.

[0119] The vent outlet provides a controlled exit point for the gas to be released into the atmosphere. These vent outlets may include valves or other mechanisms to control gas release and prevent backflow.

[0120] In the example where the top cover forms the top surface of each battery array, the partition structure allows for localized gas management. Each array may have a dedicated hollow section located within the top cover, with a separate emission inlet. This configuration helps to isolate emission events to specific areas of the battery pack.

[0121] The use of heat-resistant materials such as silicate minerals in the construction of the top cover enhances its ability to withstand the high temperatures associated with battery cell emission events. Coating the inner surface of the top cover provides additional thermal protection and thermal insulation.

[0122] The terminal holes in the top cover allow for electrical connections while maintaining the integrity of the gas management system. These terminal holes can be sealed to prevent gas leaks.

[0123] The battery pack 250 can be integrated into the vehicle 300. Figure 3 A simplified side orthographic view of a vehicle 300 including a battery pack 250 is shown. Figure 3 The basic outline of vehicle 300 is shown, in which battery pack 250 is positioned within the structure of the vehicle.

[0124] Figure 3 A vehicle including a battery pack 250 is shown, the battery pack 250 including a top cover as described herein. In some cases, the battery pack 250 may be located in the lower part of the vehicle 300. This arrangement may help lower the center of gravity of the vehicle 300, thereby potentially enhancing stability and handling characteristics.

[0125] The size and shape of the battery pack 250 can be designed to be efficiently fitted into the available space in the vehicle 300 while providing the necessary energy storage capacity.

[0126] In some cases, the relative size of the battery pack 250 to the entire vehicle 300 can vary depending on the specific vehicle model and its energy requirements. The battery pack 250 can occupy a large portion of the vehicle chassis while extending along most of the vehicle's length.

[0127] Integrating the battery pack 250 into the vehicle 300 may involve considerations of structural support and thermal management. In some cases, the vehicle 300 may be designed with specific mounting points or reinforced areas to accommodate the weight and size of the battery pack 250.

[0128] The placement of the battery pack 250 within the vehicle 300 may also take into account factors such as weight distribution and ease of maintenance or replacement. In some cases, the battery pack 250 may be designed as a modular unit that can be easily integrated into different vehicle platforms.

[0129] The integration of these components forms a comprehensive system for managing gases released during individual battery cell emission events. The top cover structure contains and guides the gases, while the flow paths and outlet orifices provide controlled means of discharging these gases from the battery pack.

[0130] Without losing the intended effect, features of any of the examples or embodiments outlined above may be combined to form additional examples or embodiments. It should be understood that the descriptions of the embodiments or examples provided above are merely exemplary, and various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that many further modifications and combinations of the aspects are possible. Therefore, the described aspects are intended to cover all such changes, modifications, and variations falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A top cover for a battery pack, the top cover being configured to attach to a battery pack comprising a plurality of battery arrays and being configured to substantially enclose the plurality of battery arrays within the battery pack, wherein: The top cover includes a first wall and a second wall, the first wall and the second wall being spaced apart from each other by at least one side wall, and the top cover is configured such that the top cover is hollow. The top cover includes at least one exhaust inlet and at least one exhaust outlet opening to the atmosphere, such that The top cover provides a fluid flow path between the at least one discharge inlet and the at least one discharge outlet orifice.

2. The top cover as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The second wall is approximately adjacent to the cover surface of the plurality of battery arrays.

3. The top cover as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The at least one discharge inlet passes through the second wall.

4. The top cover as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one discharge inlet is a rigid tubular structure extending into the fluid flow path.

5. The top cover as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the at least one emission inlet includes a ruptured area.

6. The top cover as claimed in claim 5, wherein, Each fracture zone includes a vulnerable section.

7. The top cover as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The fragility is configured to break at a predetermined pressure level.

8. The top cover as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one discharge inlet includes a one-way valve.

9. The top cover as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The top cover forms the array top cover of the corresponding battery array within the battery pack.

10. The top cover as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The second wall forms the top surface of the corresponding battery array within the battery pack.

11. The top cover as claimed in claim 10, wherein, Each corresponding battery array is in fluid communication with a separate hollow section of the top cover.

12. The top cover as claimed in claim 11, wherein, Each corresponding battery array includes a separate discharge inlet into a separate hollow section of the top cover.

13. The top cover as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The opposing surfaces of the first wall and the second wall are coated with silicate minerals.

14. A battery pack comprising a top cover as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 and at least one battery array.

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

Images