Battery pack test and service bay

Abstract

The application discloses a battery pack test and maintenance cabin, which comprises a cabin body, a water storage tank arranged at the bottom of the cabin body, a lifting mechanism installed in the water storage tank, a workbench installed at the top of the lifting mechanism, the workbench being capable of sinking into the water storage tank under the driving of the lifting mechanism and being used for supporting a battery pack, a detection device installed in the cabin body and electrically connected with the lifting mechanism, and a test equipment installed outside the cabin body and used for being connected with the battery pack through a test wire harness. According to the battery pack test and maintenance cabin, the safety hidden danger in the battery pack test and maintenance process is significantly reduced by means of the combination of active prevention and passive protection, and the safety of personnel and equipment is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of battery testing and maintenance technology, and in particular relates to a battery pack testing and maintenance cabin. Background Technology

[0002] Battery packs may experience thermal runaway during disassembly and charge / discharge cycle testing, potentially leading to fires and explosions, posing safety hazards. Therefore, effectively controlling the impact of fires and explosions, improving the safety performance of battery pack analysis and testing, and ensuring personnel safety are crucial technical issues. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a battery pack testing and maintenance cabin to ensure personnel safety during the disassembly and testing of battery packs and reduce safety hazards.

[0004] This application provides a battery pack testing and maintenance cabin, including: The cabin contains a workspace; A water storage tank is located at the bottom of the hull; The lifting mechanism is installed inside the water storage tank; The work platform is installed on top of the lifting mechanism. The work platform can be lowered into the water tank under the drive of the lifting mechanism. The work platform is used to support the battery pack. The detection device is installed inside the cabin and is electrically connected to the lifting mechanism. The testing equipment is installed on the outside of the cabin and is used to connect to the battery pack via a test harness.

[0005] The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin of this application forms a relatively enclosed operating space, physically isolating the battery pack from the external environment and reducing the risk of thermal runaway. The coordinated design of the detection device and lifting mechanism enables automatic response to safety risks; in the event of an anomaly, the battery pack can be quickly immersed in water, where the cooling and isolation effects of water effectively suppress thermal runaway, significantly improving operational safety. Furthermore, the testing equipment on the outside of the cabin allows personnel to complete testing operations in a safe area, reducing the probability of personnel exposure to hazardous environments. This structure, through a combination of proactive prevention and passive protection, significantly reduces safety hazards during battery pack testing and maintenance, ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment.

[0006] According to one embodiment of this application, the battery pack testing and maintenance cabin further includes: Smoke exhaust system, installed in the cabin, is used to exhaust the smoke inside the cabin to the outside of the cabin; Fire prevention device: The cabin has an access passage that connects to the work space. The fire prevention device is installed in the access passage to close or open the access passage. The detection device is electrically connected to the smoke exhaust device and the fire prevention device.

[0007] According to one embodiment of this application, the cabin is provided with an emergency passage, and the emergency passage is provided with an escape door.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this application, the detection device includes at least one of a thermal imaging sensor, a flame detector, and a smoke detector.

[0009] According to one embodiment of this application, the battery pack test and maintenance cabin also includes an audible and visual alarm device installed inside the cabin, and the audible and visual alarm device is electrically connected to the detection device.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this application, the cabin is provided with an observation window.

[0011] According to one embodiment of this application, the battery pack testing and maintenance cabin further includes: The water supply assembly includes a water supply pipe and a water supply pump, with one end of the water supply pipe extending into a water storage tank and the water supply pump installed on the water supply pipe; The drainage assembly includes a drainage pipe and a drainage pump, one end of which extends into a water storage tank and the drainage pump is installed on the drainage pipe; The liquid level sensor is installed inside the water storage tank.

[0012] According to one embodiment of this application, the workbench is provided with a water passage hole extending through its thickness direction.

[0013] According to one embodiment of this application, a manual alarm switch is provided inside the cabin, and the manual alarm switch is electrically connected to at least one of the lifting mechanism, smoke exhaust device and fire prevention device.

[0014] According to one embodiment of this application, an emergency stop switch is provided inside the cabin, and the emergency stop switch is electrically connected to at least one of the lifting mechanism, smoke exhaust device, and fire prevention device. Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the application. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery pack testing and maintenance cabin provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the battery pack test and maintenance cabin provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is another partial structural schematic diagram of the battery pack test and maintenance cabin provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is another partial structural schematic diagram of the battery pack test and maintenance cabin provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is another partial structural schematic diagram of the battery pack test and maintenance cabin provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0016] Figure label: 1. Battery pack testing and maintenance compartment; 11. Compartment; 111. Access passage; 112. Observation window; 12. Water tank; 121. Cable tray; 122. Maintenance port; 13. Lifting mechanism; 131. Limit bar; 14. Workbench; 15. Detection device; 151. Thermal imaging sensor; 152. Flame detector; 153. Smoke detector; 16. Testing equipment; 161. Testing wiring harness; 17. Smoke exhaust device; 171. Smoke exhaust fan; 172. Smoke exhaust duct; 18. Fire prevention device; 19. Escape door; 20. Audible and visual alarm device; 21. Water supply assembly; 22. Drainage assembly; 23. Liquid level sensor; 24. Manual alarm switch; 2. Battery pack. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0018] The following is for reference. Figures 1-5 This application describes a battery pack test and maintenance chamber according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0019] Please see Figures 1-5 The battery pack 2 test and maintenance cabin provided in this application embodiment includes: cabin body 11, water tank 12, lifting mechanism 13, workbench 14, detection device 15 and test equipment 16.

[0020] The cabin 11 has a working space; a water tank 12 is located at the bottom of the cabin 11; a lifting mechanism 13 is installed inside the water tank 12; a workbench 14 is installed on top of the lifting mechanism 13, and the workbench 14 can be lowered into the water tank 12 under the drive of the lifting mechanism 13, and the workbench 14 is used to support the battery pack 2; a detection device 15 is installed inside the cabin 11, and the detection device 15 is electrically connected to the lifting mechanism 13; a testing device 16 is installed on the outside of the cabin 11, and the testing device 16 is used to connect to the battery pack 2 through a test wiring harness 161.

[0021] The cabin 11 can be made of metal (such as stainless steel) or high-strength flame-retardant composite materials, or it can be a reinforced concrete building structure, in the form of a closed or semi-closed structure. Its shape can be designed as a cuboid, cylinder, or other irregular shape according to actual needs. The cabin 11 forms a space relatively isolated from the outside world. When the battery pack 2 experiences thermal runaway, it can prevent flames, high-temperature gases, and explosive debris from spreading to the outside world, reducing the impact on the external environment and personnel. The internal working space provides a dedicated area for the disassembly and testing of the battery pack 2, ensuring that the operation is carried out in a relatively safe environment.

[0022] The water storage tank 12 is a top-opening tank structure connected to the bottom of the chamber 11. It can be connected by welding, bolting, or integral molding. The water storage tank 12 can be made of corrosion-resistant metal (such as stainless steel) or high-strength plastic, or it can be a trough-shaped structure excavated from the ground. The volume of the water storage tank 12 is determined according to the size and number of battery packs 2 to be tested. The water storage tank 12 is fixedly installed at the bottom of the chamber 11, forming part of the internal space of the chamber 11, with the work platform 14's activity area above it. The water storage tank 12 is used to store cooling water. When the battery pack 2 is at risk of thermal runaway, it can be immersed in water, utilizing the water's heat absorption and oxygen isolation properties to quickly reduce the temperature of the battery pack 2 and suppress combustion or explosion.

[0023] The lifting mechanism 13 can be a hydraulic lift, an electric push rod, a screw jack, or a chain drive mechanism. For example, when using a hydraulic lift, it includes a hydraulic cylinder, a hydraulic pump, and a control system. The cylinder body is fixed to the bottom of the water tank 12, and the top of the piston rod is connected to the worktable 14. When using an electric push rod, the bottom of the push rod is fixed to the bottom of the water tank 12, and the top of the push rod is connected to the worktable 14. The lifting mechanism 13 is installed inside the water tank 12, such as fixed at the bottom center or four corners of the water tank 12. Its top is connected to the worktable 14 and electrically connected to the detection device 15 to receive control signals from the detection device 15. The lifting mechanism 13 is used to drive the worktable 14 to achieve lifting and lowering movements. Under normal working conditions, the worktable 14 is raised above the water tank 12 (above the water surface) for easy operation by staff. When a risk is detected, the worktable 14 is quickly lowered into the water tank 12, immersing the battery pack 2 in the water.

[0024] The workbench 14 is a plate-like or frame structure, made of metal such as aluminum alloy or stainless steel. Its surface can be textured with anti-slip patterns or secured with clips or straps to stably secure the battery pack 2. The workbench 14 is slightly smaller than the opening of the water tank 12 to ensure it can be easily submerged. The workbench 14 is mounted on top of the lifting mechanism 13, and can be connected to it via bolts or welding, allowing it to move synchronously with the lifting mechanism 13. As a support platform for the battery pack 2, the workbench 14 provides stable support and, driven by the lifting mechanism 13, allows for position switching, ensuring flexible transitions between normal operation and emergency cooling modes for the battery pack 2.

[0025] The detection device 15 is installed inside the cabin 11 and can monitor the environmental parameters inside the cabin 11 in real time. When the detected parameter exceeds the preset threshold, it immediately sends a signal to the lifting mechanism 13 to trigger an emergency cooling action. The detection device 15 can be installed on the top, side wall, or around the workbench 14 of the cabin 11.

[0026] In some examples, the detection device 15 may also include a controller, such as a microcontroller or PLC, for processing sensor signals and sending control commands to the lifting mechanism 13. It can be electrically connected to the control terminal of the lifting mechanism 13 via wires to form an automatic response control loop.

[0027] In other examples, a control cabinet may be installed inside the cabin 11. The detection device 15 and the lifting mechanism 13 are both electrically connected to the control cabinet. The detection signal of the detection device 15 is sent to the control cabinet, and the control cabinet can control the lifting mechanism 13 to operate according to the pre-designed control logic.

[0028] The testing equipment 16 may include a charge / discharge tester, an internal resistance tester, a voltage tester, etc., the specific type of which is determined according to the testing requirements of the battery pack 2. The testing equipment 16 is equipped with a wiring harness interface. One end of the test harness 161 connects to the interface, and the other end can pass through a pre-drilled hole (a seal can be installed inside the hole) on the housing 11 and extend into the interior of the housing 11 to connect with the electrodes of the battery pack 2. The testing equipment 16 is installed on the outside of the housing 11, such as by fixing it to the ground or wall next to the housing 11 with a bracket, and establishes an electrical connection with the battery pack 2 inside the housing 11 through the test harness 161. Without opening the housing 11, personnel can perform charge / discharge and performance parameter testing on the battery pack 2 from outside the housing 11 using the testing equipment 16, avoiding the safety risks caused by frequent opening of the housing 11, and facilitating remote monitoring of the testing process.

[0029] Please see Figure 2In some embodiments, the opening edge of the water tank 12 may be provided with a wire groove 121, and the test wire harness 161 is passed through the wire groove 121. In the event of an abnormality, the workbench 14 descends, and the test wire harness 161 will descend with the wire groove 121 to prevent the wire harness from being cut, thus protecting the test wire harness 161.

[0030] In actual operation, during normal operation, the lifting mechanism 13 raises the work platform 14 above the water tank 12 (above the water surface). The operator places and secures the battery pack 2 on the work platform 14, connecting it to the testing equipment 16 outside the chamber 11 via the test harness 161. At this time, the operator can enter the workspace through the operating door of the chamber 11 to disassemble or perform other maintenance operations on the battery pack 2, while simultaneously conducting various performance tests using the testing equipment 16. During this process, the detection device 15 continuously monitors parameters such as temperature, smoke, and characteristic gases inside the chamber 11. When the battery pack 2 shows signs of impending thermal runaway (such as a sudden temperature rise, the generation of smoke or characteristic gases), the controller of the detection device 15 determines that a safety risk exists and immediately sends a control signal to the lifting mechanism 13. Upon receiving the signal, the lifting mechanism 13 quickly drives the work platform 14 downwards, completely submerging the battery pack 2 in the water of the water tank 12. The water absorbs heat, lowering the temperature of the battery pack 2 and isolating oxygen, thereby inhibiting further development of thermal runaway and preventing fire or explosion that could harm the outside world.

[0031] According to the battery pack 2 test and maintenance cabin provided in this application embodiment, the cabin body 11 forms a relatively enclosed operating space, physically isolating the battery pack 2 from the external environment and reducing the risk of thermal runaway. The linkage design of the detection device 15 and the lifting mechanism 13 enables automatic response to safety risks. When the battery pack 2 malfunctions, it can be quickly immersed in water, and the cooling and isolation effects of water effectively suppress thermal runaway, significantly improving operational safety. In addition, the testing equipment 16 on the outside of the cabin body 11 allows personnel to complete testing operations in a safe area, reducing the probability of personnel exposure to hazardous environments. This structure, through a combination of active prevention and passive protection, significantly reduces safety hazards during the testing and maintenance of the battery pack 2, ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment.

[0032] In some embodiments, the settling platform can have three working states: First, please refer to Figure 3 In maintenance mode, the workbench 14 is raised above the ground, allowing personnel to observe the internal condition of the water tank. The increased height between the workbench 14 and the bottom of the water tank facilitates maintenance inside the water tank and prevents personnel from bumping into the workbench 14 when moving it.

[0033] Secondly, please refer to Figure 4In operation, the workbench 14 is flush with the ground, allowing personnel to operate normally on the workbench. The battery pack 2 can be transported to the workbench 14 using a trolley without the need for additional lifting equipment.

[0034] Thirdly, please refer to Figure 5 In the settling state, the workbench 14 descends to its lowest point, allowing water to submerge the battery pack 2, thus achieving a fire-fighting effect.

[0035] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, a maintenance port 122 is provided on one side of the water storage tank 12. When the lifting mechanism 13 malfunctions, maintenance personnel can enter the water storage tank 12 through the maintenance port 122 for convenient repair. Furthermore, a limit mechanism can be provided on the movement path of the lifting mechanism 13. When the limit bar 131 is inserted into the limit mechanism, the lifting mechanism 13 cannot move by the limit, which can protect the maintenance personnel.

[0036] Please see Figure 1 The battery pack 2 test and maintenance compartment may also include a smoke exhaust device 17 and a fire prevention device 18. The smoke exhaust device 17 is installed on the compartment 11 to exhaust the smoke inside the compartment 11 to the outside of the compartment 11; the compartment 11 has an access passage 111 that communicates with the work space, and the fire prevention device 18 is installed on the access passage 111 to close or open the access passage 111; wherein, the detection device 15 is electrically connected to the smoke exhaust device 17 and the fire prevention device 18.

[0037] The smoke exhaust device 17 can be composed of a smoke exhaust fan 171 and a smoke exhaust duct 172, or an integrated smoke exhaust unit (including a fan and a filter module) can be selected. The power of the smoke exhaust fan 171 can be determined according to the volume of the cabin 11. For example, for a working space of 10-20m³, a fan with an air volume of 800-1500m³ / h can be selected. One end of the smoke exhaust duct 172 is connected to the interior of the cabin 11 (a smoke exhaust port can be opened on the top or side wall of the cabin 11), and the other end extends to the outside or a designated smoke exhaust area. The inner wall of the duct can be coated with a high-temperature resistant coating (such as a ceramic coating) to improve fire resistance. If it is necessary to reduce the pollution of the outside world by the smoke, an activated carbon filter layer or a high-temperature smoke purifier can also be added to the smoke exhaust duct 172.

[0038] The smoke exhaust device 17 is installed in the cabin 11. The fan can be fixed to the top outside of the cabin 11 by the bracket. The smoke exhaust port is connected to the working space inside the cabin 11. When the battery pack 2 shows signs of thermal runaway (such as the generation of a small amount of smoke) or slight thermal runaway, the smoke exhaust device 17 can quickly exhaust the toxic and harmful smoke (such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen fluoride) in the cabin 11, avoiding the accumulation of smoke in the working space. This reduces the corrosion of the equipment remaining in the cabin and prevents the staff from inhaling harmful gases when opening the cabin 11, thus improving the safety of the operating environment.

[0039] The access passage 111 is an opening structure located on the side wall or front of the compartment 11. Its size is designed according to the handling requirements of the battery pack 2 and the personnel passage requirements. For example, it can be designed as a rectangular opening with a width of 1.2-1.5m and a height of 1.8-2.2m, which facilitates the entry and exit of personnel carrying tools or the handling of the battery pack 2 by forklift. Sealing grooves can be set at the edge of the passage for sealing in conjunction with the fire protection device 18. The fire protection device 18 can be a fire door (such as a steel fire door or a fire-resistant roller shutter door) or a fireproof baffle. If a fire door is used, it can be designed as a single door or a double door (when the passage width is greater than 1.5m, a double door can be installed, with the two doors symmetrically distributed and connected to the compartment 11 by hinges. The door body is made of fireproof steel plate, filled with fireproof rock wool, and equipped with a door closer and a fireproof sealing strip); if a fireproof roller shutter door is used, a roller shutter box can be installed at the top of the passage. The roller shutter material is fireproof fiber cloth or steel roller shutter, and it is driven by a motor to achieve lifting. The access passage 111 is located on the cabin 11 and connects to the internal working space of the cabin 11. The fire protection device 18 is installed at the access passage 111 (the fire door is fixed to the edge of the passage by a hinge, and the fireproof roller shutter door is fixed to the top of the passage by a bracket), and is electrically connected to the detection device 15 by a wire or wireless communication to receive the control commands of the detection device 15.

[0040] During normal operation, the fire protection device 18 is in the open position, which facilitates the entry and exit of personnel or the handling of battery pack 2. When the detection device 15 detects a safety risk, the fire protection device 18 is quickly closed, which physically seals the access passage 111 and prevents flames, high-temperature gases or explosive fragments in the cabin 11 from escaping from the passage. At the same time, it can also reduce the entry of outside air into the cabin 11 and help suppress the combustion reaction.

[0041] The controller of the detection device 15 is electrically connected via wires to the motor of the smoke exhaust device 17 and the drive components of the fire protection device 18 (such as the electric door closer of a fire door and the motor of a fire-resistant roller shutter door), forming a linkage control loop. A PLC controller can be used as the core control unit, with preset linkage logic programs to ensure the timeliness and reliability of signal transmission. This achieves automated linkage response to safety risks, completing smoke exhaust and passage closure operations without manual intervention, avoiding the expansion of risks due to delays caused by manual operation, and further improving the safety protection level of the equipment.

[0042] Please see Figure 1 According to some embodiments of this application, the cabin 11 is provided with an emergency passage, and the emergency passage is provided with an escape door 19.

[0043] The emergency passage is a passage structure independent of the access passage 111 described in the above embodiment. It can be designed as a passage that runs through the side wall of the cabin 11 or a passage connecting the interior of the cabin 11 with the external safety area. Its cross-sectional dimensions are designed to allow for rapid passage of personnel. For example, it can be designed as a rectangular passage with a width of 0.8-1.0m and a height of 1.8-2.0m. The inner wall of the passage can be paved with fireproof and heat-insulating materials (such as fireproof boards), and emergency lighting devices (such as LED emergency lights) and evacuation signs (such as fluorescent signs) can be installed in the passage to ensure that personnel can quickly identify the location of the passage in the event of a power outage or smoke.

[0044] The emergency exit is located on compartment 11, directly connecting to the workspace inside compartment 11, with the other end leading to a safe area outside compartment 11 (such as an open area away from compartment 11 or a dedicated evacuation route). The emergency exit serves as a backup evacuation route for personnel in emergency situations (such as when access to or from compartment 111 is blocked by flames or when compartment 11 experiences a serious malfunction), ensuring that personnel can quickly evacuate from dangerous areas and avoiding the risk of personnel being trapped due to a single blocked passage.

[0045] Escape door 19 adopts a fireproof and burglarproof structure and can be made of steel fire door (fire resistance rating not less than 1.5 hours). Emergency opening handles (such as push-bar escape locks) can be installed on the surface of the door to ensure that it can be quickly pushed open from the inside without a key in an emergency. Fireproof sealing strips are installed between the door and the door frame to improve the sealing and fireproof performance. Locks (such as emergency locks) can be installed on the outside of the door to prevent unauthorized personnel from opening it in non-emergency situations, while ensuring that it can be broken or unlocked from the outside in an emergency.

[0046] Escape door 19 is installed at the exit of the emergency passage (on the side closest to the outside of cabin 11). It is connected to the door frame of the emergency passage via a hinge and can be opened or closed by rotating around the hinge. Under normal conditions, escape door 19 is in the closed position, maintaining the relative sealing of cabin 11 and preventing smoke or heat from leaking out of the emergency passage. In an emergency, personnel can quickly push open escape door 19 from inside cabin 11 and evacuate to a safe area through the emergency passage, ensuring the safety of personnel.

[0047] Please see Figure 1 According to some embodiments of this application, the detection device 15 includes at least one of a thermal imaging sensor 151, a flame detector 152, and a smoke detector 153.

[0048] The thermal imaging sensor 151 adopts infrared thermal imaging technology. Specific parameters such as resolution and temperature measurement range are not limited, and are set according to actual requirements. It can be fixed to the top center or a high position on the side wall of the cabin body 11 by a bracket, so as to ensure that its detection field of view can cover the entire workbench 14 and the placement area of the battery pack 2, and the lens must be equipped with a dust-proof glass cover to prevent dust inside the cabin from affecting the detection accuracy. The thermal imaging sensor 151 can capture the temperature distribution thermal image of the surface of the battery pack 2 in real time. When the battery pack 2 has local abnormal temperature rise, for example, the temperature of a certain cell is 10°C higher than that of surrounding cells, but no smoke or flame has been generated in the precursor stage of thermal runaway, the risk can be accurately identified, which reserves more sufficient time for subsequent linkage responses (such as activation of the lifting mechanism 13 and pre-activation of the smoke exhaust device 17).

[0049] The flame detector 152 can be selected from ultraviolet flame detectors, infrared flame detectors or ultraviolet-infrared composite flame detectors. Among them, the ultraviolet flame detector has fast response speed and is suitable for monitoring ultraviolet radiation in the early stage of open flame generation; the infrared flame detector can identify infrared radiation of specific wavelengths and has strong anti-interference ability. The installation positions can be staggered from those of the thermal imaging sensor 151, for example, it is fixed on the side wall of the cabin body 11 near the workbench 14, or 2 to 3 detectors are arranged on the top of the cabin body 11 to form multi-angle coverage, for example, one detector is arranged at each of the four top corners, or one detector is arranged at the top center and one detector is arranged at each of the two side walls, so as to ensure that the flame can be captured quickly when it is generated. For the stage where thermal runaway of the battery pack 2 has generated open flame, the flame signal can be identified quickly, avoiding monitoring delay caused by smoke obstruction, and is particularly suitable for scenarios where the internal light of the cabin is dim or the smoke concentration is low but open flame has occurred, providing accurate trigger signals for emergency measures such as rapid descending of the lifting mechanism 13 and closing of the fire protection device 18.

[0050] The smoke detector 153 can be either an ionization smoke detector 153 or a photoelectric smoke detector 153. The photoelectric smoke detector 153 has stronger anti-interference capabilities (less affected by dust and water vapor), making it more suitable for the environment of the battery pack 2 test and maintenance chamber. Its detection chamber is equipped with a light-emitting diode and a photosensitive element. When smoke enters the chamber, it changes the light propagation path and triggers an alarm. The installation position of the smoke detector 153 can follow the principle of easy smoke accumulation, such as the top of the chamber 11 near the smoke exhaust port, or 0.5-1m above the workbench 14. The number can be set according to the volume of the chamber 11: if the working space volume of the chamber 11 is ≤10m³, one can be installed; if the volume is 10-20m³, two can be installed (installed on the top two sides respectively); if the volume is >20m³, three or more can be installed (such as three evenly distributed on the top, or two on the top and one on the side wall), to ensure that the smoke can be detected in time when it spreads. When the battery pack 2 experiences thermal runaway and generates a large amount of smoke (which may appear before or accompany the open flame), the smoke signal can be quickly captured. It is especially suitable for scenarios where the battery pack 2 is slowly burning due to electrolyte leakage and the smoke concentration is gradually increasing. It complements the "temperature monitoring" of the thermal imaging sensor 151 and the "open flame monitoring" of the flame detector 152, covering the risks of all stages of thermal runaway.

[0051] Please see Figure 1 According to some embodiments of this application, the battery pack 2 test and maintenance compartment may also include an audible and visual alarm device 20, which is installed inside the compartment 11 and is electrically connected to the detection device 15.

[0052] The audible and visual alarm device 20 is installed inside the cabin 11 and is electrically connected to the controller (such as a PLC controller) of the detection device 15 via wires. It is connected to the linkage control loop of the detection device 15 and can receive alarm signals of different levels (such as early warning signals and emergency alarm signals) sent by the detection device 15. As a "visualized + audible" warning component for risk warning, when the detection device 15 detects the risk of thermal runaway of the battery pack 2, it quickly reminds the personnel inside the cabin (if there are personnel) and outside the cabin to pay attention to the risk status through dual signals of sound and light, assisting subsequent emergency operations (such as evacuation of personnel inside the cabin and confirmation of equipment linkage status by personnel outside the cabin), filling the "personnel perception gap" that relies solely on automatic linkage of equipment.

[0053] The sound-generating component can be a buzzer, a voice alarm, or a loudspeaker. If a buzzer is selected, continuous or intermittent buzzing modes can be chosen, with a decibel value designed to be 80-120dB (ensuring clear hearing within a 10m radius inside the cabin while avoiding excessive noise that could affect the surrounding environment). If a voice alarm is selected, preset voice messages can be provided (such as "Battery pack 2 inside the cabin is at risk of thermal runaway, please evacuate immediately" or "Emergency system activated, do not approach cabin 11"). The voice playback duration can be set to loop until the risk is eliminated. A loudspeaker is suitable for scenarios where cabin 11 is large (working space volume > 20m³), ensuring that the sound covers the entire cabin space. The lighting components can use LED warning lights or strobe lights, with highly visible red (for emergency risks) or yellow (for early warning risks) being the preferred colors. The lighting modes can be set to constant light, strobe (5-10 times / second), or burst light. If the working space of cabin 11 is large (e.g., length > 5m), a multi-angle light-emitting structure (e.g., a 360° ring LED light) can be added to the lighting components, or multiple lighting units can be set in different locations inside the cabin (e.g., one on the top of cabin 11 and two on the side walls) to ensure that personnel in any position inside the cabin can observe the light signals. The installation location of the audible and visual alarm must meet the requirement of "unobstructed sound and light coverage of the workspace inside the cabin." The preferred location is the center of the top of the cabin 11 (which can simultaneously cover the workbench 14 area and the access passage 111 area), or a location on the side wall of the cabin 11 near the access passage 111 (for easy detection by staff entering and exiting). If there are obstructing structures such as columns or equipment supports inside the cabin, auxiliary alarm units can be added on the other side of the obstructing structure (e.g., one audible and visual alarm device 20 on each of the left and right sides of the workbench 14). The number can be adjusted according to the dimensions of the cabin 11: if the workspace volume of the cabin 11 is ≤15m³, one unit is sufficient; if the volume is >15m³, two or more units can be installed (e.g., one on the top + one on the side wall).

[0054] In actual operation, when the detection device 15 detects a "warning-level risk" (such as the thermal imaging sensor 151 detecting a slight increase in the local temperature of the battery pack 2 but not reaching the thermal runaway threshold, or the smoke detector 153 detecting a trace amount of smoke), the controller of the detection device 15 sends a "warning signal" to the audible and visual alarm device 20. For example, the audible and visual alarm device 20 activates a yellow strobe light (frequency 5 times / second) and an intermittent buzzer (sounding once every 2 seconds, each lasting 0.5 seconds) to remind the personnel in the cabin to pay attention to the status of the battery pack 2 and make emergency preparations (such as stopping unnecessary operations and approaching the emergency exit) without causing excessive panic.

[0055] When the detection device 15 detects an "emergency risk" (such as the flame detector 152 detecting an open flame, the thermal imaging sensor 151 detecting a sudden temperature rise exceeding 100°C, or the smoke concentration reaching a critical value), the controller sends an "emergency signal" to the audible and visual alarm device 20. For example, the audible and visual alarm device 20 switches to a red flashing light (frequency 10 times / second) and a continuous buzzer (120dB), simultaneously triggering the smoke exhaust device 17 to start, the fire prevention device 18 to close, and the lifting mechanism 13 to lower the work platform 14. At this time, the personnel inside the cabin can quickly confirm the risk level through the audible and visual signals and immediately evacuate through the access passage 111 or the emergency passage. The personnel outside the cabin can also see the red light or hear the buzzer through the observation window 112 of the cabin body 11 (if present) to confirm that emergency measures have been activated inside the cabin, avoiding misoperation (such as opening the fire door). When the detection device 15 detects that the risk has been eliminated (such as the temperature dropping to a safe value after the battery pack 2 is submerged in the water tank 12 and the smoke is cleared), the controller sends a "stop signal" to the audible and visual alarm device 20. The audible and visual alarm device 20 then returns to standby mode, prompting staff to enter the cabin for further processing (such as removing the battery pack 2 and cleaning the cabin).

[0056] Please see Figure 1 According to some embodiments of this application, the cabin 11 is provided with an observation window 112.

[0057] The observation window 112, as a component of the cabin 11, is located on the side wall, front, or top of the cabin 11 and is fixedly connected to the main structure of the cabin 11. It must ensure that the overall airtightness and fire resistance of the cabin 11 are not compromised. The field of view of the observation window 112 must cover the core area inside the cabin, namely the workbench 14 and the location of the battery pack 2, so that personnel can intuitively grasp the internal status without opening the cabin 11. The observation window 112 solves the problem of blind spots in visibility after the cabin 11 is closed. It supports real-time monitoring of the status of the battery pack 2 during normal testing and maintenance, such as disassembly progress, wiring harness connection status, and whether electrolyte leakage has occurred. In emergency scenarios, such as when the detection device 15 triggers a thermal runaway response, it can also observe the progress of the handling inside the cabin (such as whether the battery pack 2 has successfully sunk into the water tank 12 and whether there are residual flames), avoiding secondary risks caused by blind operation (such as opening the fire door too early).

[0058] The observation window 112 needs to meet three core requirements: high temperature resistance, impact resistance, and high light transmittance. It can be made of double-layered laminated fireproof tempered glass or upgraded to bulletproof fireproof glass.

[0059] In some embodiments, a silicone rubber fireproof sealing strip needs to be installed at the joint between the observation window 112 and the cabin 11 to fill the gap and prevent the leakage of smoke and high-temperature gases inside the cabin. A stainless steel protective frame can be installed on the outside and fixed to the cabin 11 with bolts to enhance installation stability and buffer external impacts. In some scenarios, an openable steel fireproof baffle can be added to the inside of the observation window 112, which can be manually or automatically closed in case of thermal runaway to further protect the glass. To cope with the fogging of the glass caused by the high humidity environment inside the cabin, a heating wire can be embedded between the double-glazed windows, or an anti-fog coating can be sprayed on the outside. LED auxiliary lighting can be installed around the observation window 112 and turned on at night or when the light inside the cabin is dim to improve the clarity of observation.

[0060] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to some embodiments of this application, the battery pack 2 test and maintenance compartment further includes: a water supply assembly 21, a drainage assembly 22, and a liquid level sensor 23. The water supply assembly 21 includes a water supply pipe and a water supply pump, one end of which extends into the water storage tank 12, and the water supply pump is installed on the water supply pipe; the drainage assembly 22 includes a drainage pipe and a drainage pump, one end of which extends into the water storage tank 12, and the drainage pump is installed on the drainage pipe; the liquid level sensor 23 is installed in the water storage tank 12.

[0061] One end of the water supply pipe needs to extend into the water storage tank 12, and a filter connector can be installed at the end to prevent impurities from entering the pipe and clogging the water supply pump; the other end can be connected to an external water source (such as the factory's tap water pipe or water storage tank), and a valve (such as a ball valve) needs to be installed at the connection to facilitate manual or automatic shut-off of the water supply. The water supply pump can be a corrosion-resistant centrifugal pump or a submersible pump, and the rated flow rate is determined according to the volume of the water storage tank 12. The water supply pump can have an automatic start-stop function and can be connected to the liquid level sensor 23 through a control line to automatically start water replenishment when the water level is low. The water supply component 21 replenishes the water storage tank 12 with cooling water to ensure that the water level in the water storage tank 12 is always sufficient (to meet the requirement of complete immersion of the battery pack 2), and to avoid the cooling effect failure due to insufficient water level in the event of thermal runaway; at the same time, water can be added in advance before testing and maintenance, or the consumed water can be quickly replenished after each emergency use, improving the convenience of equipment use.

[0062] The diameter of the drainage pipe can be the same as or slightly larger than that of the water supply pipe to ensure that the drainage speed is not lower than the water replenishment speed. One end of the drainage pipe needs to extend to the bottom of the water storage tank 12 (e.g., through a pre-set interface at the bottom of the water storage tank 12), and an anti-clogging cover (e.g., a perforated stainless steel cover) can be installed at the end to prevent debris from falling off the battery pack 2 from clogging the pipe; the other end can be connected to a wastewater treatment system or a wastewater collection tank to avoid direct discharge of wastewater containing electrolyte and causing pollution. The drainage pump can be a corrosion-resistant sewage pump, with a rated head that meets the drainage height requirements and a rated flow rate that is not lower than that of the water supply pump; the drainage pump can also have an automatic start-stop function, which can be triggered by the liquid level sensor 23 or a manual control switch. After the thermal runaway of battery pack 2 is resolved, the drainage component 22 can quickly drain the wastewater containing electrolyte from the water storage tank 12, facilitating subsequent cleaning of the water storage tank 12 and replacement with new water; it can also empty the water storage tank 12 when the equipment is not in use for a long time to prevent water deterioration or damage to the water storage tank 12 due to freezing in winter; in addition, when the water level in the water storage tank 12 is too high (such as abnormal water replenishment), it can be used in conjunction with the liquid level sensor 23 to start drainage to prevent water overflow.

[0063] The liquid level sensor 23 can be a float-type liquid level sensor 23, an immersion-type liquid level sensor 23, or an ultrasonic liquid level sensor 23, etc., and there is no specific limitation. The float-type sensor has a simple structure and low cost, and is suitable for small and medium-sized water storage tanks 12. It triggers a switch signal by the rise and fall of the float with the water level. The immersion-type sensor has higher accuracy and can output water level data in real time, and is suitable for large water storage tanks 12. The sensor probe needs to be corrosion resistant. The ultrasonic liquid level sensor 23 is non-contact and is installed on the top of the water storage tank 12 to avoid direct contact with water containing electrolyte. It has a longer service life and is suitable for scenarios that are sensitive to water pollution.

[0064] The level sensor 23 is installed inside the water storage tank 12 (float type fixed to the side wall of the water storage tank 12, submersible probe hanging to the bottom of the tank, ultrasonic type fixed to the top of the tank). It can be electrically connected to the water supply pump, drainage pump and equipment main controller through wires to form an automatic water level control loop. The level sensor 23 can monitor the water level in the water storage tank 12 in real time and send control signals to the water supply pump and drainage pump to realize "automatic water replenishment at low water level and automatic drainage at high water level"; at the same time, it can transmit the water level data to the main controller and display it on the equipment operation panel, so that the staff can intuitively understand the water level status and avoid the equipment operation due to abnormal water level.

[0065] Please see Figure 2 According to some embodiments of this application, the workbench 14 may be provided with water passage holes that extend through its thickness direction.

[0066] A water passage hole is formed on the worktable 14, extending along the thickness of the worktable 14 from its top surface to its bottom surface. It can be shaped using processes such as drilling and milling. The worktable 14 is mounted on top of the lifting mechanism 13. When the lifting mechanism 13 drives the worktable 14 to sink into the water storage tank 12, the water passage hole can directly contact the water in the water storage tank 12, forming a water flow channel. By setting up the water passage hole, the problem of water not being able to quickly contact the bottom of the battery pack 2 after the worktable 14, carrying the battery pack 2, sinks into the water storage tank 12 is solved. The water passage hole allows water to permeate upwards from the bottom of the worktable 14 and flow downwards from the top, enabling the water to cover the upper, lower, and side surfaces of the battery pack 2. This significantly improves the cooling efficiency during thermal runaway and prevents the bottom of the battery pack 2 from being uncooled due to obstruction by the worktable 14, thus affecting the thermal runaway suppression effect.

[0067] Please see Figure 1 According to some embodiments of this application, a manual alarm switch 24 is provided inside the cabin 11, and the manual alarm switch 24 is electrically connected to at least one of the lifting mechanism 13, the smoke exhaust device 17 and the fire prevention device 18.

[0068] The manual alarm switch 24 is installed inside the cabin 11. Specifically, it can be fixed in a position that is easily accessible and within sight of personnel entering the cabin, such as at a height of 1.2-1.5m above the ground, near the access passage 111 or the side of the workbench 14. It is connected to the main controller of the equipment via a wire, and the main controller forms an electrical connection circuit with at least one of the lifting mechanism 13, the smoke exhaust device 17, and the fire protection device 18. The linkage object can be selected according to actual needs, such as only linkage of the lifting mechanism 13, or simultaneous linkage of the lifting mechanism 13, the smoke exhaust device 17, and the fire protection device 18. The manual alarm switch 24 serves as a supplementary emergency triggering method to the automatic monitoring of the detection device 15. It addresses the emergency triggering needs when the detection device 15 fails to detect the risk of thermal runaway due to a malfunction, or when personnel discover abnormalities in the battery pack 2 in advance, such as electrolyte leakage or casing bulging, but the alarm threshold of the detection device 15 has not been reached. The corresponding protective equipment can be quickly activated by manual operation to avoid the risk from escalating due to delays or failures in automatic monitoring.

[0069] In some examples, the manual alarm switch 24 can be a waterproof, dustproof, and high-temperature resistant push-button switch. The button color is a highly recognizable red, and the surface can be engraved with markings such as "Emergency Alarm" and "Activate Emergency". The operation method can be designed as "press to trigger" or "rotate to trigger". In some scenarios, a protective cover, such as a transparent plastic cover, can be added, which must be lifted before operation to prevent staff from accidentally touching it and causing a false alarm.

[0070] According to some embodiments of this application, an emergency stop switch is provided inside the cabin 11, and the emergency stop switch is electrically connected to at least one of the lifting mechanism 13, the smoke exhaust device 17, and the fire prevention device 18.

[0071] The emergency stop switch is installed inside the cabin 11 and must be fixed within the operator's operating path and in a position that allows for easy access, ensuring that it can be triggered without moving too far in an emergency. It is directly connected to the control circuit of the main equipment controller or each associated equipment via a wire, and forms an electrical connection with at least one of the lifting mechanism 13, smoke exhaust device 17, and fire prevention device 18. It can be used to link single or multiple devices according to risk control needs. Its core function is "emergency cut-off or suspension of associated equipment operation", which complements the "trigger protection" function of the manual alarm switch 24. The emergency stop switch has at least one of the following functions: Firstly, it addresses the issue of "sudden abnormalities requiring operation interruption" during equipment linkage. For example, scenarios such as jamming when the lifting mechanism 13 drives the worktable 14 to descend, foreign objects getting stuck during the closing of the fireproof device 18, or abnormal noises generated by the smoke exhaust device 17 can be quickly interrupted by an emergency stop switch to prevent the equipment failure from escalating or causing secondary damage.

[0072] Secondly, in response to scenarios where the detection device 15 makes a misjudgment, such as when the sensor is interfered with and triggers an alarm, unnecessary linkages should be quickly cut off to avoid damage to the battery pack 2, operation interruption, and other losses.

[0073] Third, it buys time for staff to handle emergencies and fills the gap in safety management due to both "malfunctions of protective equipment" and "misjudgments by automatic monitoring".

[0074] The battery pack 2 test and maintenance cabin provided in this application embodiment forms a complete safety chain of "monitoring-triggering-interruption-error correction" with the emergency stop switch, manual alarm switch 24, and detection device 15. This further strengthens the battery pack 2 test and maintenance cabin's triple control capabilities against "equipment failure", "operational risk", and "monitoring misjudgment", making the safety protection system more comprehensive and reliable.

[0075] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and the number of objects is not limited; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0076] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0077] In the description of this application, "first feature" and "second feature" may include one or more of the features.

[0078] In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more.

[0079] In the description of this application, the first feature being "above" or "below" the second feature may include the first and second features being in direct contact, or the first and second features being in contact through another feature between them.

[0080] In the description of this application, the terms "above," "over," and "on top" for the first feature and the second feature include the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicate that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature.

[0081] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0082] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this application, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery pack testing and maintenance cabin, characterized in that, include: The cabin contains a working space; A water storage tank is located at the bottom of the cabin; A lifting mechanism is installed inside the water storage tank; A workbench is installed on top of the lifting mechanism. The workbench can be lowered into the water storage tank under the drive of the lifting mechanism. The workbench is used to support the battery pack. A detection device is installed inside the cabin and is electrically connected to the lifting mechanism. The testing equipment is installed on the outside of the cabin and is used to connect to the battery pack via a test harness.

2. The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A smoke exhaust device is installed in the cabin to exhaust the smoke inside the cabin to the outside of the cabin. A fire prevention device is provided, wherein the cabin has an access passage that communicates with the work space, and the fire prevention device is installed in the access passage for closing or opening the access passage. The detection device is electrically connected to the smoke exhaust device and the fire prevention device.

3. The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cabin is equipped with an emergency exit, which is equipped with an escape door.

4. The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The detection device includes at least one of a thermal imaging sensor, a flame detector, and a smoke detector.

5. The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It also includes an audible and visual alarm device, which is installed inside the cabin and is electrically connected to the detection device.

6. The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cabin is equipped with observation windows.

7. The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A water supply assembly includes a water supply pipe and a water supply pump, one end of the water supply pipe extending into the water storage tank, and the water supply pump being installed on the water supply pipe; A drainage assembly includes a drainage pipe and a drainage pump, one end of the drainage pipe extending into the water storage tank, and the drainage pump being installed on the drainage pipe; A liquid level sensor is installed inside the water storage tank.

8. The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The workbench is provided with a water passage hole that runs through its thickness.

9. The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cabin is equipped with a manual alarm switch, which is electrically connected to at least one of the lifting mechanism, smoke exhaust device, and fire prevention device.

10. The battery pack testing and maintenance cabin according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, An emergency stop switch is provided inside the cabin, and the emergency stop switch is electrically connected to at least one of the lifting mechanism, smoke exhaust device and fire prevention device.

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