Reducing moisture inside battery packs

Abstract

Battery moisture reduction systems for vehicles and methods for reducing moisture in battery packs are provided. One method involves arranging a battery module within the internal volume of a battery enclosure, which has a bottom and is configured to be enclosed with a cover; arranging a desiccant within the internal volume of the battery enclosure; and absorbing water from the air within the internal volume of the battery enclosure. The bottom of the enclosure is supported by a lower crossbeam. A support is mounted to the lower crossbeam and extends through the internal volume of the battery enclosure to an upper crossbeam. The support comprises a support wall that surrounds a channel. The support wall is provided with at least one connection that provides a fluid connection between the channel and the internal volume of the battery enclosure.

Description

Introduction

[0001] This description generally applies to electric vehicles, including fully electric and hybrid-electric configurations. In particular, aspects of this description relate to battery housings for battery packs of battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

[0002] Moisture inside battery housings can be undesirable. For example, moisture can cause condensation. The presence of water near components susceptible to loss of insulation (LOI) is particularly undesirable.

[0003] DE 10 2023 122 571 A1 describes a system for managing dehumidification in a battery pack with a plurality of battery modules. The system includes a housing adapted to accommodate the plurality of battery modules. The housing has at least one cavity containing a dehumidification unit, which is at least partially located in the cavity. The dehumidification unit contains a desiccant. A heating element is located near the desiccant and can selectively heat it. The system includes a control unit with a processor and tangible, non-volatile memory in which instructions are recorded. The control unit is designed to control the heating element. The desiccant is designed to collect moisture during a collection phase of the dehumidification process, and the heating element is designed to dry the desiccant during a reconditioning phase of the dehumidification process.

[0004] DE 10 2008 034 698 A1 describes a battery with a battery housing comprising a moisture-absorbing element. The moisture-absorbing element is attached to the battery housing by means of a detachable force-fit and / or form-fit connection, projecting into the interior of the battery housing.

[0005] DE 10 2021 119 110 A1 describes a floor arrangement for a motor vehicle in which at least one moisture-binding element is arranged on a side facing an interior of the motor vehicle of a body floor element which is in thermal contact with a battery temperature control device of a vehicle battery and provides a floor for the interior, and which is designed to bind condensed humidity.

[0006] DE 10 2012 212 258 A1 describes a condensing device for a battery in a vehicle and a method for condensing moisture in a battery. The condensing device comprises: a battery housing surrounding a battery interior in which at least one battery cell is arranged; an inlet opening arranged in the battery housing for a cooling fluid entering the battery interior; a first outlet opening and a second outlet opening, both arranged in the battery housing, the first outlet opening being in fluid communication with the cooling fluid exiting the battery interior; and a condensing device arranged in the battery interior and in fluid communication with the cooling fluid, which condenses moisture located in the battery interior and coming from the environment, and wherein the condensed moisture exits into the environment through the second outlet opening.

[0007] Accordingly, the object of the present invention is to provide a system and method that enable the reduction of moisture within battery housings. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide the reduction of moisture within battery housings using components that can be serviced or replaced without detaching and / or removing the battery housing from the vehicle.

[0008] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0009] Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the present description will become apparent from the following detailed description and the attached claims in conjunction with the attached drawings and the aforementioned technical field and background.

[0010] According to the invention, a method for reducing moisture in a battery pack is provided. The method includes arranging a battery module in an internal volume of a battery housing, which has a bottom and is configured to be enclosed with a cover; arranging a desiccant in the internal volume of the battery housing; and absorbing water from the air in the internal volume of the battery housing.The base of the housing is supported by a lower crossbeam; a support is mounted on the lower crossbeam and extends through the interior volume of the battery housing to an upper crossbeam; the support comprises a support wall surrounding a channel; the support wall is provided with at least one connection that provides a fluid connection between the channel and the interior volume of the battery housing; and the arrangement of the desiccant in the interior volume of the battery housing includes introducing the desiccant into the channel of the support.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the method further includes removing the desiccant from the internal volume of the battery housing; and introducing fresh desiccant into the internal volume of the battery housing, with the battery module remaining in the internal volume of the housing during the removal of the desiccant and the introduction of the fresh desiccant.

[0012] In certain embodiments of the method, an indicator is visible in contact with the desiccant at an upper end of the support, and the method further includes providing an indicator outside the battery housing to show that the desiccant should be replaced.

[0013] In certain embodiments of the method, the battery pack is arranged in a vehicle which has a cabin with a cabin floor, the indicator is visible on the cabin floor, and the method further includes drawing the desiccant from the support channel into the vehicle cabin; and introducing fresh desiccant into the support channel from the vehicle cabin.

[0014] In certain embodiments, the method further includes calculating with a processor that the desiccant should be replaced, based on the amount of desiccant located within the internal volume of the battery casing, based on the power efficiency of the desiccant, based on the external humidity of an outdoor environment, and based on the period of time the battery pack has been exposed to the outdoor environment.

[0015] In certain embodiments of the method, the processor activates an alarm that provides an indication that the desiccant should be replaced.

[0016] In certain embodiments of the method, the housing is designed with a vent that defines an airflow channel, and the arrangement of the desiccant in the internal volume of the battery housing involves arranging the desiccant above the airflow channel.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the method further includes arranging a guide plate in the battery housing to redirect an airflow through the vent into the internal volume; and cooling the guide plate to condense water from the air.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the method further includes arranging a closable baffle over the airflow channel; determining that the desiccant needs to be regenerated; closing the closable baffle to close the airflow channel; heating the desiccant to evaporate water from it and regenerate the desiccant; and reopening the closable baffle after the desiccant has been regenerated.

[0019] Furthermore, a battery moisture reduction system according to the invention is provided for a vehicle. The system comprises a battery housing; a battery module arranged in the battery housing; a lower cross member connected to a structure of the vehicle and arranged below the battery housing; an upper cross member connected to the structure of the vehicle and arranged above the battery housing; a structural support connected between the lower cross member and the upper cross member, wherein the structural support extends through the battery housing, the structural support being formed with a support wall surrounding an inner channel, and wherein the support wall being formed with a window; and desiccant arranged in a desiccant cartridge configured to be inserted into and removed from the inner channel of the structural support.

[0020] In certain embodiments of the battery moisture reduction system, the desiccant cartridge holds an indicator that provides a visual indication when the desiccant needs to be replaced.

[0021] In certain embodiments of the battery moisture reduction system, the battery housing is arranged under a vehicle cabin floor, and the system further includes an opening in the vehicle cabin floor configured to introduce the cartridge from the vehicle cabin into the inner channel of the support.

[0022] In certain embodiments of the battery moisture reduction system, the indicator is visible from the vehicle cabin when the desiccant is located in the inner channel.

[0023] In one application, a vehicle is provided with a battery moisture reduction system according to the invention and includes an electric drive system; a battery module; a battery housing which is received in the battery housing, wherein the battery housing is designed with a vent which defines an airflow channel; and desiccant which extends over the airflow channel.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the vehicle includes a guide plate in the battery housing to redirect airflow through the vent into the interior volume.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the vehicle includes a radiator in contact with the guide plate and is configured to cool the guide plate in order to cause condensation of water on it.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the vehicle includes a net extending over the airflow duct and arranged below the guide plate, the net being configured to collect water from the guide plate, and the desiccant being arranged in the net.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the vehicle includes a lockable guide plate that extends over the airflow path, and the lockable guide plate is arranged between the desiccant and a remaining internal volume of the battery housing.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the vehicle includes a control unit configured to determine when the desiccant needs to be regenerated; to close the lockable baffle; to activate the heating of the desiccant to evaporate water from it in order to regenerate the desiccant; and to reopen the lockable baffle after the desiccant has been regenerated. Fig. 1 is a schematic top view of an embodiment of a vehicle with a battery module in a battery housing according to various embodiments. Fig. 2 a schematic cross-sectional side view of a section of the in Fig. 1 shown battery housing, wherein, according to various embodiments, desiccant is located inside the battery housing to reduce moisture in it. Fig. 3 a schematic cross-sectional side view of a section of the in Fig. 1 shown battery housing, wherein, according to various embodiments, desiccant is located inside the battery housing to reduce moisture in it. Fig. 4 a schematic cross-sectional side view of a section of the in Fig. 1 shown battery housing, wherein, according to various embodiments, desiccant is located inside the battery housing to reduce moisture in it. Fig. 5 a schematic cross-sectional side view of a section of the in Fig. 1 shown battery housing, wherein, according to various embodiments, desiccant is located within an airflow channel into the battery housing to reduce moisture in it.

[0029] Fig. Figure 1 illustrates a vehicle 100 according to an exemplary implementation. It should be noted that Fig. Figure 1 is for illustrative purposes only and is not drawn to scale, nor is it intended to show proportions between the various drawn elements. As described in more detail below, the vehicle 100 includes, among other components, a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) 101 and a control system 102. In various implementations, the RESS 101 comprises a multitude of battery cells in battery groups. Also in various implementations, the control system 102 controls the RESS 101.

[0030] As in Fig. Figure 1 shows the RESS 101 and the control system 102 as part of the vehicle 100 according to exemplary implementations. In various implementations, the vehicle 100 comprises an automobile, such as any one of a number of different types of automobiles, for example, a sedan, a station wagon, a truck, an SUV, or the like. In certain implementations, the vehicle 100 may also comprise a motorcycle or another vehicle, such as an aircraft, a spacecraft, a watercraft, and so on, and / or one or more other types of mobile platforms (e.g., a robot and / or another mobile platform).In yet other implementations, the RESS 101 and the control system 102 can instead be part of and / or coupled to any number of other types of platforms and / or other systems, whether moving or stationary, such as a building, infrastructure, secondary use, home electricity, a non-automotive and / or other platforms and / or other systems.

[0031] In the implementation shown, the vehicle 100 comprises a body 104 mounted on a chassis 116. The chassis 116 may include a frame and suspension systems. The vehicle 100 includes a passenger cabin 180 above a cabin floor 182. The body 104 essentially encloses other components of the vehicle 100. The body 104 and the chassis 116 may together form a frame. In a single-body construction, the frame and the body 104 are an integral unit.

[0032] The vehicle 100 also includes a plurality of wheels 112. The wheels 112 are each rotatably coupled to the chassis 116 near a respective corner of the body 104 to facilitate the movement of the vehicle 100. In one implementation, the vehicle 100 includes four wheels 112, although this may vary in other implementations (for example, for trucks, motorcycles, and certain other vehicles).

[0033] A drive system 110 is mounted on the chassis 116 and drives the wheels 112, for example via axles 114. In certain implementations, the drive system 110 includes a drive system with an electric motor 113. In various implementations, the drive system 110, including the motor 113, receives high voltage from the RESS 101.

[0034] In various implementations, the RESS 101 provides not only high voltage for the motor 113 but also low voltage for one or more low-voltage systems 111 of the vehicle 100. In these various implementations, the low-voltage systems 111 can include, for example, one or more climate control systems, radio systems, seat heating systems, and so on.

[0035] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle in various implementations also includes a braking system 106 and a steering system 108. In exemplary implementations, the braking system 106 controls the braking of the vehicle 100 using brake components that are controlled by inputs provided by a driver (e.g., via a brake pedal) and / or automatically by a control system (such as the control system 102 and / or one or more other control systems). Similarly, in exemplary implementations, the steering system 108 controls the steering of the vehicle 100 via steering components that are controlled by inputs provided by a driver (e.g., via a steering wheel) and / or automatically by a control system (such as the control system 102 and / or one or more other control systems).

[0036] In the Fig. In the implementation shown in Figure 1, the control system 102 is coupled to the RESS 101, receives inputs from it, and controls its functionality. Additionally, in certain implementations, the control system 102 is coupled to one or more of the brake system 106, the steering system 108, the drive system 110, and / or the low-voltage systems 111, and in certain implementations, it can also receive inputs from these additional systems and / or control them.

[0037] Also as in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the control system 102 in various implementations includes a sensor array or arrangement 120 and a control module 140 (or a controller), as described in more detail below.

[0038] In various implementations, the sensor array 120 includes different sensors that receive sensor data from the vehicle 100 for use in controlling, among other functionalities, the RESS 101. In the implementation shown, the sensor array 120 can include one or more voltage sensors 130, current sensors 132, temperature sensors 134, pressure sensors 136, gas sensors 137, and humidity sensors 138.

[0039] In various implementations, the control module 140 is coupled to the sensor array 120 and receives sensor data from it. In various implementations, the control module 140 is also coupled to the RESS 101. Additionally, in certain implementations, the control module 140 can also be coupled to one or more other systems of the vehicle 100, such as the braking system 106, the steering system 108, the drive system 110, and / or low-voltage systems, for example, to receive inputs from them and / or to control them.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the control module 140 in various implementations comprises a computer system and includes a processor 142, a memory 144, an interface 146, a storage device 148 and a computer bus 150.

[0041] The processor 142 performs the calculation and control functions of the control module 140 and can comprise any type of processor or multiple processors, individual integrated circuits such as a microprocessor, or any suitable number of integrated circuit devices and / or printed circuit boards that work together to perform the functions of a processing unit. During operation, the processor 142 executes one or more programs 152 contained in the memory 144 and thus controls the general operation of the control module 140 and the control module 140's computer system in general when performing the processes described herein.

[0042] Memory 144 can be any suitable type of memory, including various types of non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium. In certain examples, memory 144 is located on the same computer chip as processor 142 and / or is located on the same chip. In the implementation shown, memory 144 stores the aforementioned program 152 along with stored values ​​157 (e.g., lookup tables, thresholds, and / or other values ​​relating to the control of RESS 101).

[0043] Interface 146 enables communication with the computer system of the control module 140, for example, from a system driver and / or another computer system, and can be implemented using any suitable method and device. In one implementation, interface 146 receives various data from the sensor array 120, among other possible data sources. Interface 146 can include one or more network interfaces for communication with other systems or components. Interface 146 can also include one or more network interfaces for communication with technicians and / or one or more memory interfaces for connecting to storage devices, such as the storage device 148.

[0044] The storage device 148 can be any suitable type of storage device, including various different types of random-access memory and / or other storage devices. In an exemplary implementation, the storage device 148 comprises a program product from which the memory 144 can receive a program 152 executing one or more implementations of one or more processes of the present description, such as the steps of procedure 500 from Fig. 5 and further below in connection with it. In another exemplary implementation, the program product can be stored directly in memory 144 and / or a disk (e.g. disk 156), such as the one mentioned below, and / or accessed in another way.

[0045] Bus 150 is used to transmit programs, data, status, and other information or signals between the various components of the computer system of the control module 140. Bus 150 can be any suitable physical or logical means for connecting computer systems and components. This includes, but is not limited to, direct hard-wired connections, fiber optic, infrared, and wireless bus technologies. During operation, the program 152 is stored in memory 144 and executed by processor 142.

[0046] It is understood that although this exemplary implementation is described in connection with a fully functional computer system, the person skilled in the art will recognize that the mechanisms of the present description are capable of being distributed as a program product with one or more types of non-volatile, computer-readable signal-carrying media used to store the program and its instructions and to carry out its distribution, such as a non-volatile, computer-readable medium carrying the program and containing computer instructions stored therein to cause a computer processor (such as processor 142) to execute the program.

[0047] In Fig. 1 The RESS 101 is located in a battery housing 170, which can be structurally mounted directly or indirectly to the chassis 116. The battery housing 170 can be accessible from the cabin 180, for example through the cabin floor 182.

[0048] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic side cross-sectional view of a section of the battery housing 170. Fig. 1 ready. The RESS 101 is in Fig. 2 not illustrated and may be located in the illustrated section of the battery housing 170 and / or in a non-illustrated section of the battery housing 170. Fig. Figure 2 illustrates an embodiment of a battery housing 170 that is configured to accommodate desiccants in an easily removable manner.

[0049] The battery housing 170 encloses an internal volume 202. In particular, the battery housing 170 separates the internal volume 202 from an external volume 302 outside the battery housing 170. As further shown, the battery housing 170 includes a lower base structure or shell 204 and an upper cover 206. The shell 204 and the cover 206 can be in contact with each other, connected, and sealable. Alternatively, a side wall or side walls can connect the shell 204 and the cover 206. The battery housing can be indirectly mounted to the chassis 116 by the shell 204, by the cover 206, or by the shell 204 and the cover 206.

[0050] In Fig. 2 a lower structural cross member 252 is located under the shell 204 of the battery housing 170 and can be structurally connected to the chassis 116 (in Fig. 1 shown). Likewise, an upper structural cross member 254 is located above the cover 206 of the battery housing 170 and can be structurally connected to the chassis 116 (in Fig. (1 shown). Furthermore, the cabin floor 182 is located above the upper structural crossbeam 254. The cabin floor 182 can be supported directly by the upper crossbeam 254 or indirectly by the upper crossbeam 254.

[0051] As further shown, a support 260 may be provided. The support 260 may be a structural component connected to the crossbeam 252 below the shell 204 and to the crossbeam 254 above the cover 206. As shown, the support 260 may extend through the battery housing 170. In particular, the support 260 may extend through the shell 204 and through the cover 206. Furthermore, the support 260 may extend through the cabin floor 182 or may be accessible through an opening 184 in the cabin floor 182.

[0052] In addition to providing structural support for the vehicle 100, the support 260 serves a second purpose. As shown, the support 260 comprises an outer wall 262 that surrounds an inner channel 264. The outer wall 262 is designed with windows or openings 266 to allow a fluid connection between the inner channel 264 and the interior volume 202 of the battery housing 170.

[0053] As further shown, the desiccant 280 is arranged in the inner channel 264 of the support 260. The desiccant 280 can be any suitable material, such as a silicon dioxide-based or calcium-based material, and / or a high-performance color-changing composition selected for use under typical conditions to which the battery casing 170 is exposed.

[0054] The desiccant 280 can be positioned in a cartridge 282 or rod structure and can be introduced through the opening 184 in the cabin floor 182 and into the inner channel 264 of the support 260. The desiccant 280 can be in contact with an indicator 290. For example, the indicator 290 can be a color-changing composition. For example, the indicator 290 can change color based on the humidity level. Thus, when the desiccant has removed a selected amount of water from the air in the internal volume 202 of the battery housing 170, the indicator 290 can reach a humidity level that causes a color change. As shown, the indicator 290 can be arranged at the upper end of the cartridge 282 so that the indicator 290 is visible from the vehicle cabin 180 without removing the cartridge 282.

[0055] In certain embodiments, an engagement is provided between the desiccant cartridge 282 and the cabin floor 182 to prevent gas from escaping from the battery housing 202 and entering the vehicle cabin 180. For example, the desiccant cartridge 282 and the cabin floor 182 can be threaded to engage with each other, so that the desiccant cartridge 282 is screwed into the cabin floor 182.

[0056] While a single structural support 260 that accommodates desiccant 280 is illustrated, embodiments may provide any suitable number of structural supports 260 that accommodate desiccant 280.

[0057] In addition to introducing desiccant 280 into structural supports 260, embodiments can provide for the addition of desiccant at other locations of the battery housing 170.

[0058] For example, it can be determined that condensation is more likely to occur and / or be a problem at locations such as the front end pieces, the rear end pieces, the battery disconnect unit (BDU) connections, or other locations within the battery housing 170. Therefore, non-structural supports 240 can be introduced at the identified locations. As shown, the non-structural support 240 cannot extend through the shell 204 of the battery housing 170.

[0059] In particular, the non-structural support 240 can extend through the cover 206. Furthermore, the non-structural support 240 can extend through the cabin floor 182 or can be accessible through an opening 184 in the cabin floor 182.

[0060] Similar to support 240, non-structural support 240 comprises an outer wall surrounding an inner channel. The outer wall is designed with windows or openings to allow a fluid connection between the inner channel and the interior volume 202 of the battery housing 170.

[0061] As further shown, the desiccant 280 is arranged in the inner channel of the non-structural support 240, for example via a desiccant cartridge 282, as described above with respect to the support 260. Furthermore, an indicator 290 can be arranged at the upper end of the cartridge 282, as described above.

[0062] The use of the non-structural support 240 allows the desiccant 280 to be selectively placed at any desired location within the internal volume 202 of the battery housing 170, independent of the location of the structural supports 260. Furthermore, any desired number of non-structural supports 240 can be used to provide the desired amount of water removal and moisture reduction.

[0063] With reference to Fig. 3 now provides an embodiment of a battery housing 170 configured to accommodate desiccants in an easily removable manner. The battery housing 170 encloses an inner volume 202. In particular, the battery housing 170 separates the inner volume 202 from an outer volume 302 outside the battery housing 170.

[0064] In Fig. Figure 3 shows a side wall 205 of the battery housing 170. The side wall 205 can be part of the shell 204 or the cover 206 (see Figure 3). Fig. 2) or can connect the shell 204 and the cover 206 together.

[0065] In Fig. 3 A vent 310 is formed in the side wall 205. As shown, a box structure 320 can surround the vent 310 and be connected to the side wall 205. The vent 310 and the box structure 320 define an airflow channel 315. Furthermore, a membrane 330 can extend over the airflow channel 315. As shown, a spark arrestor 340 can also extend over the airflow channel 315.

[0066] A guide plate 350 is provided on the inside of the vent 310. As shown, a cooler 360, such as a Peltier cooler or a thermoelectric cooler, can be located on the back of the guide plate 350. Furthermore, a mesh 370, such as a metal mesh 370, extends over the airflow channel 315.

[0067] The guide vane 350 is provided to redirect the airflow. The guide vane 350 can be made of metal or another thermally conductive material. The cooler 360 cools the guide vane 350. As a result, moist air flowing into the interior volume 202 through the vent 315 is cooled by the guide vane 350, and water condenses on it. The water can then trickle down onto the mesh 370 by gravity.

[0068] In certain embodiments herein, the desiccant 280 is arranged in the mesh 370. As a result, the desiccant 280 can absorb the water that drips down from the guide plate 350. Furthermore, the desiccant 280 can absorb moisture from the air flowing through the mesh 370.

[0069] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the box 320 can be configured with a channel 325 through which the desiccant 280 can be introduced and removed from the mesh 370. The desiccant 280 can be arranged in a tray or a tray-like cartridge 282 to facilitate introduction and removal.

[0070] In the embodiment of Fig. 3. All the air entering the battery housing 170 through the vent 310 must pass through the desiccant 280, which is arranged in the net 370.

[0071] Additionally or alternatively, the desiccant 280 can be an extension of the cooled guide plate 350. Such an arrangement adds additional cold surface area to contact moist air entering the battery pack. In such an embodiment, the mesh 370 can be arranged upstream or downstream of the desiccant 280, or the mesh 370 could be a cage in which the desiccant cartridge is arranged.

[0072] With reference to Fig. 4 now provides an embodiment of a battery housing 170 configured to accommodate desiccants in an easily removable manner. The battery housing 170 encloses an inner volume 202. In particular, the battery housing 170 separates the inner volume 202 from an outer volume 302 outside the battery housing 170.

[0073] In Fig. Figure 4 shows a side wall 205 of the battery housing 170. The side wall 205 can be part of the shell 204 or the cover 206, or it can connect the shell 204 and the cover 206.

[0074] In Fig. 4 A vent 310 is formed in the side wall 205. As shown, a box structure 320 can surround the vent 310 and be connected to the side wall 205. The vent 310 and the box structure 320 define an airflow channel 315. Furthermore, a membrane 330 can extend over the airflow channel 315. As shown, a spark arrestor 340 can also extend over the airflow channel 315.

[0075] A guide plate 350 is provided on the inside of the vent 310. As shown, a cooler 360, such as a Peltier cooler or a thermoelectric cooler, can be located on the back of the guide plate 350. Furthermore, a mesh 370, such as a metal mesh 370, extends over the airflow channel 315.

[0076] The guide vane 350 is provided to redirect the airflow. The guide vane 350 can be made of metal or another thermally conductive material. The cooler 360 cools the guide vane 350. As a result, moist air flowing into the interior volume 202 through the vent 315 is cooled by the guide vane 350, and water condenses on it. The water can then trickle down onto the mesh 370 by gravity.

[0077] In embodiments herein, the desiccant 280 is arranged in the mesh 370. Consequently, the desiccant 280 can absorb the water that drips down from the guide plate 350. Furthermore, the desiccant 280 can absorb moisture from the air flowing through the mesh 370.

[0078] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the box 320 can be configured with a channel 325 through which the desiccant 280 can be introduced and removed from the mesh 370. The desiccant 280 can be arranged in a tray or a tray-like cartridge 282 to facilitate introduction and removal.

[0079] In the embodiment of Fig. 4. All the air entering the battery housing 170 through the vent 310 must pass through the desiccant 280, which is arranged in the net 370.

[0080] With reference to Fig. 5 now provides an embodiment of a battery housing 170 configured to accommodate desiccants in an easily removable manner. The battery housing 170 encloses an inner volume 202. In particular, the battery housing 170 separates the inner volume 202 from an outer volume 302 outside the battery housing 170.

[0081] In Fig. Figure 5 shows a side wall 205 of the battery housing 170. The side wall 205 can be part of the shell 204 or the cover 206, or it can connect the shell 204 and the cover 206.

[0082] In Fig. 5 A vent 310 is formed in the side wall 205. As shown, a box structure 320 can surround the vent 310 and be connected to the side wall 205. The vent 310 and the box structure 320 define an airflow channel 315. Furthermore, a membrane 330 can extend over the airflow channel 315. As shown, a spark arrestor 340 can also extend over the airflow channel 315.

[0083] A guide plate 350 is provided on the inside of the vent 310. The guide plate 350 is provided to redirect the airflow. The guide plate 350 can be made of metal or another thermally conductive material.

[0084] Furthermore, a lockable guide plate 390 extends over the airflow channel 315.

[0085] In embodiments herein, the desiccant 280 is arranged above the airflow channel 315 in the box 320. Consequently, the desiccant 280 can absorb moisture entering the battery housing 170 through the vent 310. In particular, all the air entering the battery housing 170 through the vent 310 must pass through the desiccant 280.

[0086] In the embodiment of Fig. 5. The lockable guide plate 390 closes when the desiccant 280 needs to be replaced. Instead of removing the desiccant 280, it is regenerated by heating it to evaporate the water it contains. Because the guide plate 390 is closed, the evaporated water does not enter the battery housing 170. After sufficient water has evaporated and diffused into the external environment 302, the guide plate 390 can be reopened. This regeneration process can be controlled by the Fig. 1 can be operated.

[0087] Furthermore, it should be noted that the guide plate 390 can fully open or disintegrate during a thermal event to allow maximum gas flow through the vent 310 to the outside.

[0088] In each of the embodiments described herein, the desiccant can be accessed by a technician without disconnecting or removing the battery module. For example, in the embodiment of Fig. 2. The desiccant is introduced into and removed from the vehicle cabin. In the embodiments of the Fig. 3-4 The desiccant can be inserted and removed by lifting the vehicle and accessing the outside of the vent. Fig. 5. Although the desiccant is designed for regeneration and not replacement, it can be accessed by lifting the vehicle and accessing the outside of the vent.

[0089] In certain embodiments described herein, desiccant cartridges are integrated into the battery pack on vehicle floor supports (structural elements), thereby making the support multifunctional. The cartridges can be serviced from inside the cabin and may have a color indicator feature.

[0090] In certain embodiments described herein, the desiccant supports have design features for engaging with the cabin floor to prevent gas leakage into the cabin.

[0091] In certain embodiments described herein, desiccant cartridges may be located at high-voltage points, such as front and rear busbars, in addition to existing structural elements, and BDU connections are identified as posing a high risk of loss of isolation (LOI).

[0092] Furthermore, in certain embodiments, desiccant cartridges with or without desiccant regenerating elements can be integrated into the venting subassembly.

[0093] In certain designs, desiccant cartridges with drain plugs can be integrated into the base tray of RESS packs.

[0094] In certain embodiments, the amount of desiccant provided in the battery housing can be based on high humidity environments and permissible ingress through vents per day to achieve a target time based on maintenance.

[0095] In certain embodiments, the processor calculates when the desiccant should be replaced or regenerated based on the amount of desiccant within the internal volume of the battery casing, the desiccant's power efficiency, the ambient humidity, and the duration of the battery pack's exposure to the environment. The amount of desiccant within the internal volume of the battery casing can be entered by a technician or detected by a sensor. The desiccant's power efficiency can be entered by a technician, or the desiccant can be identified by the technician, and the processor can look up the power efficiency of the identified desiccant. The ambient humidity can be detected by a sensor. The duration of exposure can be monitored by the processor.

Claims

[1] Method for reducing moisture in a battery pack, comprising: Arranging a battery module (101) in an internal volume (202) of a battery housing (170) which has a bottom (204) and is configured to be enclosed with a cover (206); Arranging a desiccant (280) in the internal volume (202) of the battery casing (170); and Absorption of water from air in the internal volume (202) of the battery casing (170); wherein: the base (204) of the case (170) is supported by a lower crossbeam (252); a support (260) is mounted on the lower cross member (252) and extends through the internal volume (202) of the battery housing (170) to an upper cross member (254); the support (260) comprises a support wall (262) that surrounds a channel (264); the support wall (262) is designed with at least one connection (266) that provides a fluid connection between the channel (264) and the internal volume (202) of the battery housing (170); and The arrangement of the desiccant (280) in the internal volume (202) of the battery housing (170) includes the introduction of the desiccant (280) into the channel (264) of the support (260). [2] Method according to claim 1, further comprising: Removing the desiccant (280) from the internal volume (202) of the battery casing (170); and Introducing fresh desiccant (280) into the internal volume (202) of the battery housing (170), wherein the battery module (101) remains in the internal volume (202) of the housing (170) during the removal of the desiccant (280) and the introduction of the fresh desiccant (280). [3] Method according to claim 1, wherein: the battery pack is arranged in a vehicle (100) which has a cabin (180) with a cabin floor (182); an indicator (290) in contact with the desiccant (280) is visible at an upper end of the support and is visible on the cabin floor (182); and The procedure further includes: Providing an indication outside the battery housing (170) with the indicator (290) that the desiccant (280) should be replaced; Extraction of the desiccant (280) from the channel (264) of the support (260) into the vehicle cabin (180); and Introducing fresh desiccant (280) into the channel (264) of the support (260) from the vehicle cabin (180). [4] Method according to claim 1, further comprising: A processor (142) calculates that the desiccant (280) should be replaced, based on the quantity of desiccant (280) within the internal volume (202) of the battery housing (170), based on the power efficiency of the desiccant (280), based on the external humidity of an external environment (302), and based on the period of time the battery pack has been exposed to the external environment (302), and wherein the processor (142) activates an alarm that provides an indication that the desiccant (280) should be replaced. [5] Method according to claim 1, wherein the housing (170) is formed with a vent (310) defining an airflow channel (315), and wherein the arrangement of the desiccant (280) in the internal volume (202) of the battery housing (170) comprises the arrangement of the desiccant (280) via the airflow channel (315). [6] The method of claim 5, further comprising: Arranging a guide plate (350) in the battery housing (170) to redirect an airflow through the vent (310) into the internal volume (202); and Cooling the guide plate (350) to condense water from the air. [7] The method of claim 5, further comprising: Arranging a lockable guide plate (390) above the airflow duct (315); Determine that the desiccant (280) needs to be regenerated; Closing the lockable guide plate (390) to close the airflow channel (315); Heating the desiccant (280) to evaporate water from it and regenerate the desiccant (280); and Reopening of the lockable guide plate (390) after the desiccant (280) has been regenerated. [8] Battery moisture reduction system for a vehicle (100), comprising: a battery housing (170); a battery module (101) arranged in the battery housing (170); a lower cross member (252) which is connected to a structure of the vehicle (100) and is located below the battery housing; an upper cross member (254) which is connected to the structure of the vehicle (100) and is arranged above the battery housing (170); a structural support (260) connected between the lower crossbeam (252) and the upper crossbeam (254), wherein the structural support (260) extends through the battery housing (170), wherein the structural support (260) is formed with a support wall (262) surrounding an inner channel (264), and wherein the support wall (262) is formed with a window (266); and desiccant (280) arranged in a desiccant cartridge (282) configured to be inserted into and removed from the inner channel (264) of the structural support (260). [9] Battery moisture reduction system according to claim 8, wherein: the desiccant cartridge (282) contains an indicator (290) which provides a visual indication when the desiccant (280) needs to be replaced; the battery housing (170) is arranged under a vehicle cabin floor (182) of a vehicle cabin (180); the indicator (290) is visible from the vehicle cabin (180) when the desiccant (280) is arranged in the inner channel (260); and The system further comprises an opening (182) in the vehicle cabin floor (182) which is configured for introducing the cartridge (282) from the vehicle cabin (180) into the inner channel (262) of the support (260).

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