Battery housing protection device

Abstract

The application relates to a protective device for a housing, in particular for a battery housing, for dissipating excess pressure from the interior of the housing, wherein the protective device comprises: a closure element for sealing an opening of the housing in a first operating state, wherein the closure element is displaceably arranged relative to the housing and is configured to be displaced non-destructively into a second operating state in a displacement direction; a bearing element for guiding the closure element, wherein the bearing element is configured to be mounted on the housing; at least one clamping element which, in the first operating state, is held in a compressed state between the bearing element and the closure element and exerts a linearly oriented force on the closure element in such a way as to push the closure element towards the housing.wherein the locking element releases the opening of the housing in the second operating state, wherein when the locking element is moved in the direction of displacement into the second operating state, the at least one clamping element temporarily has a third operating state in which the linearly oriented acting force of the at least one clamping element acts substantially perpendicular to the direction of displacement.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a protective device for a housing, a housing comprising such a protective device, a battery system comprising such a housing with a protective device, and a vehicle with such a battery system.

[0002] To protect certain components, especially batteries, from external environmental influences, these components can be housed in a casing and / or container, which is preferably essentially hermetically sealed. Optionally, a protective atmosphere, especially consisting of a specific gas, can prevail inside the casing and / or container.

[0003] However, due to a defect, especially a short circuit, in the battery, a relative pressure can suddenly develop in such a gas-filled housing that is sealed off from the environment.

[0004] As a result of the relative pressure, a mechanical stress is placed on the housing, which can lead to bursting and / or collapse, for example.

[0005] To compensate for this relative pressure, membranes have been used for years in the walls of housings, allowing air to pass into and / or out of the interior of the housing while simultaneously protecting the interior of the housing from the ingress of, for example, water and dirt.

[0006] However, such membranes typically have a limited flow rate. Should a sudden increase in relative pressure, e.g., due to thermal decomposition of the contents of the housing, exceed the membrane's flow rate, the membrane can no longer protect the container from excessive stress, resulting in a further increase in relative pressure.

[0007] Therefore, it is advisable to provide a protective device in conjunction with the interior of the housing, which, in the event of impermissibly high internal pressure, opens a flow cross-section from the interior of the housing to the surroundings / atmosphere, through which a rapid reduction of the relative pressure can then take place in the event of a very rapid build-up of the relative pressure inside the housing.

[0008] In the prior art, rupture discs are particularly well-known as protective devices. These rupture when a certain relative pressure is exceeded, creating a flow cross-section through which the relative pressure can be relieved. A disadvantage of this design is that the opening pressure of individual rupture discs cannot be controlled before rupture. This necessitates very high manufacturing costs to ensure that the discs rupture at a predetermined pressure. Another disadvantage of such rupture discs is that they are only functional once and are destroyed after activation. Consequently, if the system is to be reused, a new rupture disc with seals must be installed, a very complex process. An additional disadvantage is that rupture discs can only be adapted to changing activation pressures through extensive testing.

[0009] It is advantageous to develop a protective device that can be tested against the actual opening pressure at the end of the manufacturing process and only then attached to a housing. This testing can, for example, be performed as a 100% inspection at the end of the production process at the manufacturer's facility.

[0010] Particularly advantageous are high trigger accuracy, small installation space requirements, simplified, especially (partially) automated, manufacturing and low costs of the protective device.

[0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved protective device that protects the interior of a housing and can reliably and quickly reduce the relative pressure inside the housing. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a housing with such a protective device, a battery system with such a housing with a protective device, and a vehicle with such a battery system.

[0012] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Additional embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0013] A first aspect of the invention relates to a protective device for a housing, in particular for a battery housing, for dissipating excess pressure from the interior of the housing, wherein the protective device comprises: a closure element for sealing an opening of the housing in a first operating state, wherein the closure element is displaceably arranged relative to the housing and is configured to be displaced non-destructively into a second operating state in a displacement direction; a bearing element for guiding the closure element, wherein the bearing element is configured to be mounted on the housing; at least one clamping element which, in the first operating state, is held in a compressed state between the bearing element and the closure element and exerts a linearly oriented force on the closure element in such a way as to push the closure element towards the housing and / or opening.wherein the locking element releases the opening of the housing in the second operating state, wherein when the locking element is moved in the direction of displacement into the second operating state, the at least one clamping element temporarily has a third operating state in which the linearly oriented acting force of the at least one clamping element acts substantially perpendicular to the direction of displacement.

[0014] The described protective device offers the advantage that the release pressure can be set simply and reliably by selecting and / or designing the clamping element. In particular, standard components with a linear direction of action are advantageously suited as clamping element(s) for this protective device, such as a compression spring or helical spring, a spring comprising a metal strip, especially a leaf spring, or a plastic or elastomer body. These and similar standard components are cost-effective and can be manufactured in large quantities with low tolerances and high accuracy. Furthermore, standard components enable (semi-)automated assembly of the protective device components and a small installation space requirement for the device.

[0015] Preferably, the closing element is designed such that it essentially seals and / or covers the opening in the housing. The closing element can be essentially cylindrical, with its longitudinal axis essentially corresponding to the direction of displacement.

[0016] The bearing element can be integrally formed with the housing and / or attachable to the housing. Optionally, the bearing element can cover part of the housing opening.

[0017] The locking element and / or the protective device is preferably in the first operating state if and / or as long as a relative pressure inside the housing compared to the environment does not exceed a first limit value.

[0018] The at least one clamping element is preferably coupled to the locking element in the first operating state in such a way that it essentially positions and / or fastens and / or holds the locking element in position on the housing and / or the bearing element in the first operating state.

[0019] Preferably, in the first operating state, the at least one clamping element, in particular its longitudinal extent, is oriented at an angle other than approximately 90° and / or approximately 180° relative to the displacement direction of the locking element. In other words, the at least one clamping element, in particular its longitudinal extent, can be oriented obliquely towards the housing and / or opening in the first operating state. The same applies to the linearly oriented force K generated by the at least one clamping element.

[0020] In the first operating state, there is essentially no or a negligible pressure difference between the inside of the housing and the environment of the housing.

[0021] The clamping element is preferably designed to generate a substantially linearly oriented acting force during compression in order to counteract the compression.

[0022] Preferably, the direction of the acting force K is essentially coaxial to a longitudinal extent and / or longitudinal direction of the clamping element 12.

[0023] In the first operating state, the at least one clamping element preferably has an orientation relative to the displacement direction of the closure element such that an axial component of the linearly oriented force of the at least one clamping element holds the closure element in contact with the bearing element and / or the housing, thus essentially preventing air from escaping from the opening inside the housing to the atmosphere. The axial component of the force is oriented essentially parallel to the displacement direction of the closure element.

[0024] A radial component of the linearly oriented force of at least one clamping element is, in particular, essentially orthogonal to the displacement direction of the locking element.

[0025] In the first operating state, the axial component of the effective force is preferably between approximately 8% and approximately 77%, more preferably between approximately 17% and approximately 65%, and even more preferably between approximately 25% and approximately 50% of the linearly oriented effective force. This enables a reliable seal of the opening while simultaneously offering a low overall height, low manufacturing costs, and an advantageous and reliably definable release pressure.

[0026] With a higher axial component, clamping elements with lower stiffness could be used, and the proportion of disruptive radial forces would be reduced; however, this would necessitate a greater overall height of the protective device. With a lower axial component, the overall height would be further reduced, but very stiff clamping elements would be required, resulting in higher costs and greater disruptive radial forces. Furthermore, the increasing tolerances associated with stiffer clamping elements reduce the accuracy of defining the required release pressure.

[0027] The magnitude of the axial component of the acting force depends in particular on the orientation of the clamping element, especially its angle relative to the direction of displacement and / or the housing surface. Advantageous orientations of the clamping element in the first operating state are described below.

[0028] In the second operating state, the opening of the housing is essentially completely unobstructed, allowing gas / air to escape essentially unhindered and rapid pressure equalization to take place.

[0029] The locking element and / or the protective device is preferably in the second operating state when and / or after a relative pressure inside the housing has exceeded a predetermined limit. This involves a displacement of the locking element from the first operating state to the third operating state and further in the displacement direction beyond this to the second operating state.

[0030] In the second operating state, the locking element can be decoupled from the at least one clamping element; at the very least, simple and / or essentially non-destructive decoupling of the locking element from the bearing element and / or the clamping element is enabled. In other words, in the second operating state, the at least one clamping element preferably exerts no force on the locking element opposite to the direction of displacement, so that the latter can essentially decouple itself.

[0031] In particular, in the second operating state, at least one clamping element does not prevent further displacement of the locking element away from the housing in the displacement direction.

[0032] In the second operating state, at least one clamping element is preferably not compressed.

[0033] Furthermore, the protective device is preferably designed such that in the third operating state the locking element is displaced from the first operating state and translationally in the displacement direction to such an extent that the force acting on the locking element of at least one clamping element does not act substantially in and / or against the displacement direction.

[0034] In other words, it is preferred that in the third operating state the force acting of at least one clamping element temporarily acts essentially exclusively perpendicular to the direction of displacement and / or radially to the direction of displacement.

[0035] For example, in the third operating state, at least one clamping element is essentially aligned and / or oriented perpendicular to the displacement direction of the locking element. In this state, the axial component of the effective force is essentially 0% (relative) or 0 N (absolute). Accordingly, the radial component of the effective force is at its maximum, or essentially 100%, of the effective force of the locking element.

[0036] In the alignment or orientation of the third operating state, the clamping element does not essentially force the locking element towards the housing and / or in or against the direction of displacement.

[0037] Preferably, the at least one clamping element exhibits a higher compression in the third operating state compared to the first operating state. Furthermore, preferably, the compression of the at least one clamping element is highest in the third operating state due to the displacement of the locking element from the first to the second operating state. Accordingly, the linearly oriented force acting on the at least one clamping element is also highest in the third operating state.

[0038] In other words, the protective device is preferably designed such that when the locking element is moved out of the first operating state and in the direction of movement towards the third operating state, the compression and thus the absolute effective force of the at least one clamping element increases.

[0039] However, the magnitude of the axial component of the acting force also changes when the alignment and / or orientation of at least one clamping element is moved in the direction of displacement of the locking element.

[0040] It is advantageous that, over the course of the displacement of the locking element from the first operating state to the third operating state, the absolute force resulting from the axial component of the effective force decreases.

[0041] In particular, it is advantageous that in the first operating state, a maximum force acts on the locking element against the direction of displacement. This allows for a particularly precise definition of the release pressure, since the force directed against the displacement of the locking element in the direction of displacement and exerted by at least one clamping element decreases over the course of the displacement.

[0042] Such an advantageous distribution of the absolute force against the direction of displacement can be achieved, for example, by selecting a suitably configured and / or designed clamping element. Alternatively and / or additionally, the protective device can be designed accordingly, particularly with regard to the alignment and / or compression of the at least one clamping element in the first operating state.

[0043] In particular, the closing force, i.e., the force with which the valve body is forced towards the opening and / or housing (axial component of the effective force), can be approximately calculated as cos(α) x effective force. If the clamping element exhibits a linear increase in the effective force during shortening or compression, the closing force decreases during the transition from the first operating state to the third operating state with decreasing angle α, according to the formula above.

[0044] It is advantageous that the arrangement of the clamping element, in particular the angle α, and the spring stiffness of the clamping element are appropriately matched to each other in order to achieve the advantageous profile of the decreasing closing force. In particular, the increase in the effective force of the spring element due to the shortening or compression should not overcompensate for the aforementioned reduction in the closing force, i.e., it should be essentially equal to or greater than the reduction in the axial component of the effective force due to the decreasing angle α.

[0045] With multiple clamping elements, the locking force is multiplied according to the number of clamping elements.

[0046] Alternatively, the alignment and / or orientation of the clamping elements can be such that the axial component initially increases when shifting out of the first operating state and then decreases again with further shifting towards the third operating state. The maximum force occurs opposite to the direction of shift between the first and third operating states. This can be advantageous for reducing an initial overpressure by slightly opening the opening, with complete opening only occurring upon reaching a second, higher overpressure. Such a profile can be achieved, for example, by aligning and / or orienting the clamping elements at less than 45° to the direction of shift in the first operating state.

[0047] As the locking element moves from the third operating state to the second operating state, the compression, and thus the effective force of the at least one clamping element, preferably decreases, with the percentage axial component increasing. Furthermore, as the locking element moves further from the third operating state to the second, the at least one clamping element now exerts a force on the locking element in the direction of movement. Consequently, the at least one clamping element assists in reaching the second operating state and thus essentially completely releasing the housing opening. This is particularly advantageous because it allows the locking element to be guided into the second operating state after passing through the third, regardless of the pressure inside the housing.The essentially complete release of the opening can thus be achieved more quickly and / or reliably.

[0048] Preferably, the direction of the linearly oriented acting force of the at least one clamping element in the first operating state forms an angle between about 40° and about 85°, preferably between about 50° and about 80°, more preferably between about 60° and about 75°, to the displacement direction of the locking element.

[0049] A larger angle allows for a lower overall height of the protective device, whereas a smaller angle increases the reliability of the seal and the trigger pressure.

[0050] A corresponding angular range between the direction of the linearly oriented acting force of the at least one clamping element and the displacement direction in the first operating state is particularly advantageous in order to obtain a reliable seal and an advantageous, predetermined or predeterminable release pressure while simultaneously requiring little installation space for the protective device.

[0051] Furthermore, appropriate alignment and / or orientation of at least one clamping element enables the use of clamping elements with an advantageous force-accuracy ratio.

[0052] For protective devices for housings, especially battery housings, release pressures within a specific range are predetermined and / or customary. If the at least one clamping element is aligned within the specified angular range, clamping elements with low manufacturing tolerances can advantageously be used.

[0053] Preferably, the displacement direction is oriented essentially orthogonal to the opening cross-section and / or to the housing wall in the area of ​​the opening. Accordingly, the direction of the linearly oriented acting force of the at least one clamping element in the first operating state advantageously forms an angle of between approximately 5° and approximately 50°, preferably between approximately 10° and approximately 40°, and more preferably between approximately 15° and approximately 30°, with respect to the opening cross-section and / or the housing wall in the area of ​​the opening. The advantages regarding installation space and sealing or release pressure are correspondingly reversed as described above.

[0054] Preferably, the protective device comprises a plurality, in particular 2, 3, 4, 5 or more, clamping elements, wherein the clamping elements are arranged substantially symmetrically. This is particularly advantageous because the radial components of the respective forces acting on the clamping elements essentially counteract and balance each other, thereby essentially centering the locking element and preventing or reducing friction against the bearing element.

[0055] Additionally, clamping elements with lower individual acting force can be provided, which offer improved accuracy and / or lower tolerance. This allows the release pressure of the protective device to be set more precisely.

[0056] Preferably, the clamping elements are essentially identical, which allows for a symmetrical distribution of the respective forces at low manufacturing costs and increases the reliability of the release.

[0057] The clamping elements in the protective device are preferably arranged essentially radially symmetrically around an axis oriented parallel or congruent to the direction of displacement.

[0058] Preferably, the clamping elements are arranged and / or oriented in a substantially conical manner. In other words, the axes of the linearly oriented forces of all clamping elements preferably intersect at a common point, this point preferably lying substantially on a central longitudinal axis of the locking element.

[0059] This prevents, or at least reduces, uneven force application and tilting and / or jamming of the locking element, thus achieving a more reliable function of the protective device.

[0060] Preferably, in the first operating state, the clamping elements together form a non-linear spring characteristic curve opposite the direction of displacement, wherein the percentage and absolute axial component of the cumulative forces decreases when the locking element is displaced from the first operating state and towards the third operating state, while the percentage and absolute radial component of the cumulative forces increases simultaneously.

[0061] Preferably, the locking element has a corresponding locking element receiving section for each clamping element, against which the corresponding clamping element is supported. Each locking element receiving section is configured to allow a change in the orientation of the corresponding clamping element when the locking element is moved from the first operating state to the second operating state. This enables a change in the orientation and / or alignment of the clamping element corresponding to the movement of the locking element. As a result, essentially the entire linearly oriented force of a clamping element acts on the locking element, even when the locking element is moved in the direction of movement (until the second operating state is reached). Only the magnitude of the axial component of the force changes depending on the position of the locking element and the orientation of the clamping element.

[0062] Alternatively or additionally, the bearing element has a corresponding bearing element receiving section for each clamping element, against which the corresponding clamping element is supported. Each bearing element receiving section is configured to allow a change in the orientation of the corresponding clamping element when the locking element is moved from the first operating state to the second operating state. This enables a change in the orientation and / or alignment of the clamping element corresponding to the movement of the locking element. As a result, essentially the entire force exerted by a clamping element acts on the bearing element, even when the locking element is moved (until the second operating state is reached). Only the magnitude of the axial component of the force changes depending on the orientation of the clamping element.

[0063] Preferably, the locking element receiving section and / or the bearing element receiving section each have a spherical section, so that the associated clamping element, in particular a helical spring, remains clamped between them when the orientation is changed by moving the locking element in the direction of displacement.

[0064] Preferably, the locking element receiving section and / or the bearing element receiving section, together with the associated clamping element, form a joint, in particular a ball joint, wherein the orientation of the clamping element can change essentially unhindered and depending on the position of the locking element between the first operating state and the second operating state. This prevents, in particular, the clamping element from slipping off the locking element receiving section and / or the bearing element receiving section.

[0065] The locking element receiving section and / or the bearing element receiving section is / are advantageously arranged relative to each other in the first operating state such that the locking element receiving section is positioned closer to the housing and / or the opening in the direction of displacement than the bearing element receiving section. Accordingly, the clamping element clamped between these is aligned and / or oriented in the first operating state such that its force pushes the locking element towards the housing and against the direction of displacement.

[0066] Preferably, in the third operating state, the bearing element receiving section and the closure element receiving section are positioned essentially on the same plane oriented orthogonally to the displacement direction, wherein the clamping element clamped between them is oriented and / or aligned such that the axial component of its effective force is essentially 0N (absolute) or 0% (percentage).

[0067] Furthermore, preferably in the second operating state, the bearing element receiving section is positioned closer to the housing and / or the opening in the displacement direction than the locking element receiving section. Accordingly, the alignment and / or orientation of the clamping element clamped between these two is such that, between the third operating state and immediately before reaching the second operating state, its force pushes the locking element away from the housing.

[0068] Preferably, the bearing element for each clamping element has an insertion ramp for guiding the associated clamping element into a position clamped between the locking element receiving section and the bearing element receiving section, wherein the insertion ramp is oriented essentially orthogonal to the direction of the acting force of the associated clamping element in the first operating state. This facilitates, in particular, (semi-)automatic assembly of the clamping element.

[0069] The insertion ramp is preferably provided on the side of the bearing element that is designed to contact the housing. A normal to a surface formed by the insertion ramp is oriented essentially parallel to the direction of the acting force of the associated bearing element in the first operating state. By bearing against the guide ramp, the clamping element is aligned such that it can be easily inserted into the predetermined position between the bearing element and the locking element. This predetermined position preferably corresponds to the position of the clamping element in the first operating state.

[0070] Preferably, the locking element for each clamping element has a bearing shell for the essentially precise reception of each clamping element in the orientation of the first operating state. This ensures that the clamping element is securely held in the predetermined position. It also simplifies the assembly of the clamping element, as it can be inserted until it rests against the bearing shell.

[0071] Preferably, the bearing element has at least one connecting recess for engaging with at least one connecting projection of the housing in order to mount the bearing element to the housing. This allows for simplified mounting of the bearing element to the housing, in particular without tools and / or without additional fasteners such as screws or rivets.

[0072] Preferably, the connecting projection of the housing is arranged in the area of ​​the opening. For example, one or more connecting projections extend into the interior of the opening. The one or more connecting recesses of the bearing element can engage with one of the connecting projections, for example by rotating the bearing element relative to the housing.

[0073] Preferably, the protective device comprises a sealing element seal which is arranged between the sealing element and the bearing element and is compressed between them in the first operating state. For example, the seal is arranged on an upper free edge region of the bearing element in order not to hinder or impede the movement of the sealing element from the first operating state to the second operating state.

[0074] Furthermore, a seal can be provided for essentially fluid-tight sealing between the bearing element and the housing.

[0075] Preferably, the closure element is designed to be essentially fluid-tightly coupled to the housing in the first operating state by the force exerted by at least one clamping element. This allows the opening to be sealed solely by the closure element.

[0076] This is particularly advantageous because it means the bearing element does not have to be arranged in a fluid-tight manner against the housing, resulting in greater design freedom, fewer seals are required and the number of possible leakage points is reduced.

[0077] Preferably, the at least one clamping element is arranged inside the bearing element and / or the locking element, thereby achieving a protective device with a small required installation space. Furthermore, the at least one clamping element is advantageously protected from environmental influences.

[0078] Preferably, the protective device comprises a membrane with a predetermined permeability, in particular to allow pressure equalization between the interior of the housing and the environment of the housing.

[0079] This allows pressure equalization to occur at low relative pressure without displacement of the sealing element. The sealing element can incorporate the diaphragm and / or the diaphragm can be attached to the bearing element and arranged fluidically parallel to the opening sealed by the sealing element.

[0080] The membrane preferably has a predetermined permeability to gases, which is suitable to compensate for a pressure difference commonly occurring in the automotive sector, in particular a pressure equalization of approximately ±0.1 bar due to temperature and / or altitude differences.

[0081] Alternatively, a membrane can be additionally arranged on the housing or only on the housing. In particular, a membrane can essentially close and / or cover another opening of the housing.

[0082] Preferably, the membrane is essentially dustproof, for example according to protection class IP6X, to prevent the ingress of foreign objects into the interior of the housing. It is advantageous if at least one side of the membrane is essentially waterproof, for example according to protection class IPX6K, IP6KX, IPX7, IPX9K, or IPX8. A membrane with protection class IP67 is particularly advantageous. Furthermore, the membrane is preferably arranged on the sealing element in such a way that the ingress of water into the interior of the housing through the membrane is essentially prevented. For example, the membrane consists of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) with micropores or has a structure with corresponding properties. Alternatively and / or additionally, the membrane advantageously has an air permeability of between approximately 1 and approximately 25 l / (dm³). 2 *min), further preferably between about 2.5 and about 10 l / (dm³) 2*min), on (especially at a pressure drop of about 200 Pa - for example according to DIN EN ISO 9237). Preferably, the membrane has a thickness between about 0.1 and about 0.5 mm, more preferably between about 0.13 and about 0.18 mm, and particularly a thickness of about 0.14 mm.

[0083] Preferably, the locking element and the bearing element form at least one guide structure to guide their relative displacement in the displacement direction. This has the advantage that tilting and / or misalignment of the locking element can be prevented, or at least reduced, to increase the reliability of the safety device's activation. Particularly with a large diameter and / or extent orthogonal to the displacement direction and a relatively small height and / or extent in the displacement direction of the bearing element, a guide structure facilitates proper displacement of the locking element relative to the bearing element, so that reaching the second operating state is not prevented or significantly impeded. This allows the safety device to be designed to be flatter and / or more compact.

[0084] Preferably, the guide structure has a tongue-and-groove connection, which is oriented essentially in the displacement direction. The locking element can have a groove and / or a recess and / or a channel in which a spring and / or a rib and / or a web of the bearing element is displaceably arranged, particularly translationally in the displacement direction. Alternatively, the bearing element has a groove and / or a recess and / or a channel in which a spring and / or a rib and / or a web of the locking element is displaceably arranged, particularly translationally in the displacement direction. Preferably, the protective device has two or more guide structures, preferably arranged essentially uniformly and / or symmetrically, to achieve improved guidance.

[0085] Preferably, the protective device includes a locking element for limiting the movement of the locking element beyond the position of the second operating state and / or for preventing decoupling between the locking element and the housing. A locking element can connect the locking element to the bearing element and / or the housing and can, for example, comprise a locking cable and / or strap and / or belt and / or a bracket and / or a stopper element to prevent the locking element from moving beyond a certain position, so that the locking element is not separated from the housing and / or the bearing element and / or completely decoupled. Advantageously, the locking element is formed integrally with the locking element and / or the bearing element. Alternatively and / or additionally, the locking element can be formed in one or more parts.Alternatively or additionally, the locking element can be configured to reduce the kinetic energy of the locking element upon reaching the second operating state to below a predetermined and / or predefinable value, such as approximately 3 joules or less. For this purpose, the locking element can have, at least in sections, a structure that deforms under load while absorbing energy, such as a bellows, wave, or spiral structure. The locking element can also have one or more predetermined breaking points to absorb at least a portion of the locking element's kinetic energy. The locking element can then be designed to allow complete decoupling of the locking element from the bearing element and / or the housing, while reducing the kinetic energy of the decoupled locking element, in particular to below approximately 3 joules.In the design and / or conception of the locking element, the release pressure of the protective device and / or the force exerted by at least one clamping element and / or the weight of the locking element are preferably taken into account. The locking element can be made of a metal and / or plastic with the highest possible toughness.

[0086] Further aspects of the invention relate to a housing, in particular a battery housing, comprising the protective device described in the preceding paragraph, and to a battery system comprising such a housing with a battery storage unit located therein for storing electrical energy. A further aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle, in particular a road vehicle, comprising such a battery system.

[0087] The following section describes, by way of example, individual embodiments for solving the problem, illustrated by the figures. Some of the described embodiments exhibit features that are not strictly necessary for carrying out the claimed subject matter, but which provide desirable properties in certain applications. Thus, embodiments that do not possess all the features of the embodiments described below are also considered to be disclosed within the scope of the described technical teaching. Furthermore, to avoid unnecessary repetition, certain features are mentioned only in relation to some of the embodiments described below. It should therefore be noted that the individual embodiments should not only be considered individually, but also in combination.From this overview, the person skilled in the art will recognize that individual embodiments can also be modified by incorporating one or more features from other embodiments. It should be noted that a systematic combination of individual embodiments with one or more features described in relation to other embodiments may be desirable and useful, and should therefore be considered and also be regarded as covered by the description. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary design of a protective device with a locking element; Fig. 2a shows a sectional view of the protective device made of Fig. 1 along line AA in a first operating state; Fig. 2b shows a sectional view of the protective device made of Fig. 1 along line AA in a third operating state; Fig. Figure 3 shows another exemplary embodiment of a protective device which is mounted on a housing; Fig. Figure 4 shows a bottom view of the protective device. Fig. 3; Fig. 5 shows the assembled components of the protective device. Fig. 3; Fig. Figure 6 shows another exemplary embodiment of a protective device, which additionally has a membrane; Fig. Figure 7a shows a diagram of an exemplary required force of a clamping element in relation to the angular position of the clamping element in the first operating state; Fig. Figure 7b shows a diagram of the effective force accuracy of clamping elements in relation to the angular position of the clamping element in the first operating state. Detailed description of the drawings

[0088] The Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a protective device 1 with a closing element 2 for closing a housing opening 11.

[0089] In this example, the locking element 2 is arranged on a bearing element 4, which is designed to be attached to a housing 10, in particular a battery housing. For this purpose, the protective device 1 shown has a plurality of mounting holes 22, which are designed for mounting the protective device 1, in particular the bearing element 4, to a housing 10.

[0090] The closure element 2 is displaceable relative to the bearing element 4 to allow fluid flow. The bearing element 4 is preferably coupled to a housing 10 in a substantially fluid-tight manner.

[0091] The protective device 1 shown is in a first operating state in which the closing element 2 is coupled to the bearing element 4 in such a way as to close a housing opening 11 in a substantially fluid-tight manner.

[0092] In the first operating state, the sealing element 2 is pressed against the bearing element 4 to achieve a substantially fluid-tight seal.

[0093] The Fig. Figure 2a shows a sectional view of the protective device 1. Fig. 1 along line AA in a first operating state, wherein the protective device 1 is mounted on a housing 10 in the area of ​​an opening 11.

[0094] The protective device 1 has a plurality, more precisely three, clamping elements 12, which are arranged essentially symmetrically and / or radially at equal distances from one another around a locking receptacle 3 of the locking element 2. The locking receptacle 3 is arranged essentially on a central longitudinal axis in the locking element 2. Alternatively, several locking receptacles 3, in particular one per clamping element 12, can be provided.

[0095] The locking receptacle section 3 has several ball sections, each of which supports one end of the clamping elements 12. The opposite ends along the longitudinal extent of the clamping elements 12 each support a bearing element receptacle section 18.

[0096] In this example, the bearing element receiving sections 18 are arranged radially outside and the closure element receiving section 3 is arranged radially inside.

[0097] In the first operating state shown, the clamping elements 12 are clamped and compressed between the closure element receiving section 3 and the bearing element receiving sections 18, so that an effective force K acts between closure element 2 and bearing element 4. This holds the closure element 2 centered in the tubular section of the bearing element 4 that surrounds the closure element 2.

[0098] The clamping elements 12 in this example are compression springs or coil springs and are essentially identical in design.

[0099] By aligning and / or orienting the clamping elements 12, the force acting on the clamping elements 12 acts at least partially against the displacement direction V and holds the locking element 2 in the second operating state.

[0100] The force K of a clamping element 12 is essentially linear in the longitudinal direction of the clamping element 12. Since the clamping element 12 is oriented at an angle to the displacement direction V, only an axial component of the force K acts against the displacement direction V in order to push the locking element 2 towards the opening 11 or the housing 10.

[0101] The magnitude of the axial component varies depending on the angle. For example, at an angle α of approximately 75° between the direction of the acting force K and the displacement direction V, the axial component is approximately 25% of the linearly oriented acting force K per clamping element 12. At an angle α of approximately 60° between the direction of the acting force K and the displacement direction V, the axial component is approximately 50% of the linearly oriented acting force K per clamping element 12.

[0102] The locking element 2 further comprises a bearing shell 5 for each clamping element 12. The bearing shell 5 is preferably designed to receive a clamping element 12 and to hold it in the alignment and / or orientation of the first operating state. The bearing shells 5 are designed to allow and / or not substantially impede a change in the alignment and / or orientation of the clamping elements 12 caused by displacement of the locking element 2 from the first operating state.

[0103] The bearing element 4 includes an insertion ramp 26 for each clamping element 12 for guiding a clamping element 12 before and / or during positioning between the closure element receiving section 3 and the bearing element receiving section 18.

[0104] The insertion ramp 26 can, in particular, form a surface which is oriented essentially perpendicular to an insertion direction of the clamping element 12. The insertion ramp 26 is designed to provide a support for the clamping element 12 against which one side of the clamping element 12 can be positioned and along which the clamping element 12 can be displaced in the insertion direction, in particular translationally.

[0105] Advantageously, the insertion ramp 26, the locking element receiving section 3, and the bearing element receiving section 18 can be designed and / or positioned such that the clamping element 12 is (further) compressed while bearing against the insertion ramp 26 and being moved in the insertion direction, in order to be positioned between the locking element receiving section 3 and the bearing element receiving section 18. For example, the locking element receiving section 3 and / or the bearing element receiving section 18 may have a ramp or a spherical section, as shown in the Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b shown.

[0106] The Fig. Figure 2b shows a sectional view of the protective device 1. Fig. 1 along line AA in a third operating state, in which the locking element 2 is displaced from the first operating state.

[0107] In the third operating state, the sealing element 2 can at least partially release the opening 11 of the housing 10. In this state, the essentially fluid-tight seal between the sealing element 2 and the bearing element 4 is released, and pressure equalization can occur through the opening 11. Optionally, a sealing element seal 24 can be provided between the bearing element 4 and the sealing element 2.

[0108] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2b, the clamping elements 12 are oriented essentially perpendicular to the displacement direction V. The clamping elements 12 remain in contact with the respective associated closure element receiving sections 3 and the bearing element receiving sections 18.

[0109] In the third operating state, the clamping elements 12 act essentially exclusively in the radial direction and / or in a direction orthogonal to the displacement direction V. The radial component of the effective force is essentially 100% of the linearly oriented effective force K.

[0110] Accordingly, in the third operating state, the clamping elements 12 do not act essentially in or against the displacement direction V. The axial component of the effective force is essentially 0% of the linearly oriented effective force K.

[0111] In the third operating state, the locking element 2 is essentially in equilibrium with respect to the displacement direction V. If the locking element 2 is further displaced from the third operating state in the displacement direction V, for example, due to overpressure in the housing 10 and / or momentum of the locking element 2 from the displacement out of the first operating state, the axial component of the effective force K increases again. The axial component of the effective force K then acts in the displacement direction V and supports and / or accelerates a (further) displacement of the locking element 2 away from the housing 10 and / or towards the second operating state.

[0112] The Fig. Figure 3 shows another exemplary embodiment of a protective device 1, which is mounted on a housing 10.

[0113] Unlike in the example of the Fig. 1 in the example is the Fig. 3. The opening 11 of the housing 10 is essentially fluid-tight closed by the sealing element 2 resting against the housing 10. Optionally, a seal can be arranged between the sealing element 2 and the housing 10.

[0114] The locking element 2 is arranged outside the bearing element 4 and encloses it on the surrounding side. This protects the internal components of the protective device 1 from environmental influences.

[0115] The locking element 2 can be connected to the housing 10 and / or the bearing element 4 by means of a locking element 16 in order to prevent complete decoupling of the locking element 2 from the bearing element 4 and / or the housing 10 after the opening 11 has been released, or at least to reduce the kinetic energy of the locking element 2.

[0116] The Fig. Figure 4 shows a bottom view of the protective device 1. Fig. 3 or a view from inside a housing 10.

[0117] The bearing element 4 has a plurality of connecting recesses 14, wherein the housing 10 has connecting projections 11a which engage with the connecting recesses 14.

[0118] The connecting projections 11a can be engaged by the connecting recesses 14 by rotating the bearing element 4 to mount the bearing element 4 to the housing 10. Optionally, a clamping element can be formed between the connecting projections 11a and the connecting recesses 14, thereby achieving improved fastening.

[0119] The Fig. Figure 5 shows the assembled components of the protective device 1. Fig. 3.

[0120] As shown, only one of three clamping elements 12 is positioned in the respective bearing shell 5.

[0121] Also visible are the spherical sections of the locking element receiving sections 3 and the bearing element receiving section 18 for receiving and / or supporting the clamping elements 12. The spherical sections enable, in particular, the coupling with the clamping elements 12 to be maintained, even in the event of relative displacement between the bearing element 4 and the locking element 2 and the resulting change in the orientation of the clamping elements 12.

[0122] In this example, the locking element receiving sections 3 are arranged radially outside and the bearing element receiving section 18 radially inside. Nevertheless, the in Fig. The three examples shown exhibit essentially the same triggering behavior as in Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b shown and described in this regard.

[0123] The closure element 2 can further comprise a seal receptacle 20 to accommodate a seal that comes into contact with the housing 10, thus achieving an improved seal. In this example, the seal receptacle 20 is essentially circular and configured to receive a sealing ring.

[0124] The Fig. Figure 6 shows another exemplary embodiment of a protective device 1, which is mounted on a housing 10 and additionally has a membrane 6.

[0125] The protective device 1 of the Fig. 6 has a closing element 2 which comprises a diaphragm 6. The diaphragm 6 is arranged such that fluid flow through the diaphragm 6 is permitted, particularly when the closing element 2 and / or the protective device 1 is in the first operating state (as in Fig. 6 (shown).

[0126] By providing a membrane 6, pressure equalization can take place between the inside of the housing 10 and the environment of the housing 10 without displacing the closure element 2 from the first operating state.

[0127] Alternatively or additionally, a membrane 6 can be provided on the bearing element 4.

[0128] The Fig. Figure 7a shows a diagram of an exemplary required force K of a clamping element 12 in relation to an angular position of the clamping element 12 relative to the opening cross-section in the first operating state. The opening cross-section can, in particular, be oriented essentially orthogonally to the displacement direction V.

[0129] As described in the process, the axial component of the linearly acting force of the clamping element 12 depends on the orientation of the clamping element 12 relative to the displacement direction V.

[0130] A flat orientation allows for a low overall height, but the axial component decreases, which is why stiffer clamping elements 12 are needed to push the locking element 2 towards the housing 10 with a predetermined pressure in the first operating state.

[0131] However, clamping elements 12 with increasing stiffness also exhibit greater tolerance and / or inaccuracy, which can lead to a greater discrepancy between the individual clamping elements 12 and consequently to uneven loads. This can reduce the reliability of the release mechanism.

[0132] A steep orientation provides a high axial component to the effective force K of the clamping elements, which allows for the use of less rigid clamping elements 12 with lower tolerances and / or inaccuracies. However, this increases the overall height.

[0133] The Fig. 7a identifies a particularly advantageous relationship between the orientation of the clamping elements 12 and their required effective force K (spring force F). F The alignment of the clamping elements 12 and / or the orientation of the linearly oriented acting force K in the first operating state is specified as an angular range relative to the opening cross-section between approximately 15° and approximately 30°. Accordingly, the angle α defined between the direction of the acting force K and the displacement direction V is between approximately 60° and approximately 75°.

[0134] The Fig. Figure 7b shows a diagram of the force accuracy of clamping elements 12 in relation to the angular position of the clamping element 12 in the protective device in the first operating state, taking into account the tolerances dependent on the force K.

[0135] The Fig. Section 7b identifies a particularly advantageous relationship between the orientation of the clamping elements 12 and their force accuracy. The orientation of the clamping elements 12 and / or the orientation of the linearly oriented force K in the first operating state is specified as an angular range relative to the opening cross-section between approximately 20° and approximately 30°. Correspondingly, the angle α defined between the direction of the force K and the displacement direction V is between approximately 60° and approximately 70°.

[0136] The preferred angular positions can vary depending on the type of clamping elements. The ones in the Fig. 7a and Fig. The values ​​shown in 7b are examples for compression springs or helical springs as clamping elements 12. Reference symbol list 1 protective device 2 locking element 3. Locking element receiving section 4 bearing element 5 bearing cup 6 Membran 10 cases 11 Opening 11a Connecting projection 12 clamping elements 14 Connection recess 16 safety element 18 Bearing element mounting section 20 Seal holder 22 mounting holes 24 sealing element seal 26 Inlet chamfer K direction of the acting force of a clamping element V direction of displacement α Angle between the direction of the acting force K and the displacement direction V

Claims

Protective device (1) for a housing (10), in particular for a battery housing, for dissipating excess pressure from the interior of the housing (10), wherein the protective device (1) comprises: a closure element (2) for sealing an opening (11) of the housing (10) in a first operating state, wherein the closure element (2) is arranged to be displaceable relative to the housing (10) and is configured to be displaced non-destructively into a second operating state in a displacement direction (V); a bearing element (4) for guiding the closure element (2), wherein the bearing element is configured to be mounted on the housing (10); at least one clamping element (12), which in the first operating state is held in a compressed state between the bearing element (4) and the closure element (2) and exerts a linearly oriented force on the closure element (2) in such a way as to push the closure element (2) towards the housing (10).wherein the locking element (2) releases the opening (11) of the housing (10) in the second operating state, wherein when the locking element (2) is displaced in the displacement direction (V) into the second operating state, the at least one clamping element (12) temporarily has a third operating state in which the linearly oriented acting force of the at least one clamping element (12) acts substantially perpendicular to the displacement direction (V). Protective device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the direction of the acting force (K) of the at least one clamping element (12) in the first operating state forms an angle between about 40° and about 85°, preferably between about 50° and about 80°, more preferably between about 60° and about 75°, to the displacement direction (V) of the locking element (2). Protective device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the protective device has a plurality, in particular 2, 3, 4 or more, clamping elements (12), wherein the clamping elements (12) are arranged substantially symmetrically. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking element (2) has for each clamping element (12) an associated locking element receiving section (3) on which the associated clamping element (12) is supported, wherein each locking element receiving section (3) is configured to allow a change in the orientation of the associated clamping element (12) when moving the locking element (2) from the first operating state to the second operating state. Protective device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the bearing element (4) has an associated bearing element receiving section (18) for each clamping element (12) on which the associated clamping element (12) is supported, and wherein each bearing element receiving section (18) is configured to allow a change in the orientation of the associated clamping element (12) when moving the closure element (2) from the first operating state to the second operating state. Protective device (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the locking element receiving section (3) and / or the bearing element receiving section (18) each has a spherical section(s) such that the associated clamping element (12) remains clamped between them when the orientation is changed by moving the locking element (2) in the direction of displacement (V). Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bearing element (4) has for each clamping element (12) an insertion ramp (26) for guiding an associated clamping element (12) into a position clamped between the closure receiving section (3) and the bearing element receiving section (18), wherein the insertion ramp (26) is oriented substantially orthogonally to the direction of the acting force (K) of the associated clamping element (12) in the first operating state. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bearing element (4) has at least one connecting recess (14) for engaging with at least one connecting projection (11a) of the housing (10) in order to mount the bearing element (4) on the housing (10). Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking element (2) is designed to be coupled to the housing (10) in a substantially fluid-tight manner by the force (K) of the at least one clamping element (12) in the first operating state. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a membrane with a predetermined permeability. Housing (10), in particular a battery housing, comprising the protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims. Battery system comprising the housing (10) according to claim 11 and at least one battery storage device for storing electrical energy. Vehicle, in particular a road vehicle, comprising the battery system according to claim 12.

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