VALVE

Abstract

A valve suitable for releasing a pressure build-up from a container, the valve comprising: an electrical switch that can be actuated by variations in a local magnetic field; a magnet in the vicinity of the electrical switch; wherein the actuation of the valve changes the position of the magnet relative to the electrical switch and thus alters the local magnetic field.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to pressure relief valves for battery systems, in particular those used in electric vehicle battery packs. In particular, the invention relates to a valve that provides both mechanical pressure relief and electronic feedback to a vehicle control system when the internal battery pressure exceeds a defined threshold.

[0002] In recent years, electric vehicles have become increasingly prevalent, requiring energy-dense battery packs that maintain consistent performance under various operating conditions. During charging, discharging, or in the event of faults such as internal short circuits or thermal runaway, these battery cells can generate gases. This gas buildup leads to increased internal pressure within the battery pack casing. If this pressure is not properly managed, it can result in deformation, rupture, fire, or explosion.

[0003] To address this, modern battery systems often incorporate vent valves designed to release internal pressure when a critical threshold is reached. Common solutions include spring-loaded or rupture disc valves that open at a pre-calibrated pressure to allow rapid gas release. Some modern designs include porous diaphragms or vents to allow for gradual pressure equalization and moisture management during normal operation. These components are intended to prevent excessive pressure buildup, maintain the integrity of the enclosure, and provide ingress protection.

[0004] However, existing valve technologies are limited in several respects. Many vent valves function as passive mechanical devices that provide no indication of activation. This lack of feedback delays the detection of abnormal operating conditions, such as thermal events, which can impair the response time of the vehicle's safety systems. Furthermore, valves that rely solely on mechanical actuation can be susceptible to blockages, seal failure, or inconsistent performance due to material fatigue, contamination, or variable assembly tolerances.

[0005] While some advanced venting systems have attempted to provide two-stage operation or a small footprint, integration with vehicle electronics remains limited. Pressure events within the battery pack can go undetected without the separate installation of additional pressure sensors or diagnostic hardware. This increases the complexity of the system architecture and leads to additional potential points of failure or maintenance requirements.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for a venting solution that not only responds reliably to internal overpressure but also provides a real-time signal to the vehicle's electronic control unit. Ideally, such a solution should combine pressure-activated mechanical movements with an integrated sensor mechanism, such as a magnetically actuated electrical switch. This allows the system to detect valve actuations and transmit a signal when the pressure exceeds a defined threshold. The valve should be compact, manufacturable, and return to its sealing position after the pressure subsides, thus restoring the system to its normal operating state.

[0007] The present invention addresses these shortcomings by providing a valve capable of releasing battery pressure when necessary and simultaneously controlling a sensor that transmits the event to the vehicle's control system. This ensures improved system diagnostics, early warning capability, and increased overall battery pack safety without compromising the mechanical simplicity or compactness of the valve design. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] According to the present invention, a valve is provided according to the appended claims. According to one aspect of the present invention, a valve is provided which is suitable for releasing a pressure build-up from a container, wherein the valve comprises the following: an electrical switch that can be operated by variations in a local magnetic field; a magnet near the electrical switch; the actuation of the valve changes the position of the magnet in relation to the electrical The switch changes, thus varying the local magnetic field.

[0009] Advantageously, this configuration allows not only a mechanical pressure release function but also an electronic indication of the valve actuation. By integrating a magnet and a switch sensitive to magnetic field variations, the system enables real-time monitoring of overpressure events within the container, such as those occurring in a battery pack. This eliminates the need for separate pressure sensors or a complex diagnostic circuit. The change in the relative position between the magnet and the electrical switch when the valve moves allows the switch to trigger a signal to an electronic control unit or monitoring system, thereby improving the responsiveness and safety of the overall system.Furthermore, due to its contactless magnetic actuation, the sensor is less susceptible to mechanical wear, contamination, or leakage problems compared to conventional pressure sensors or touch-based switches. This results in a robust, low-maintenance solution for monitoring internal pressure conditions, offering compact and easy integration into existing valve assemblies.

[0010] In an advantageous embodiment, the valve is configured to move to an open position upon reaching a threshold pressure. Advantageously, the valve can be operated passively and autonomously depending on the pressure conditions within the container, e.g., a battery housing. By calibrating the valve to open at a predetermined pressure threshold, the system ensures the timely venting of gases or fluids in the event of abnormal or hazardous occurrences, such as thermal runaway, thereby reducing the risk of structural failure, leaks, or explosions. This pressure-dependent actuation also enables precise control during venting, minimizing unnecessary or premature openings and contributing to the maintenance of environmental sealing under normal operating conditions.Threshold-based movement contributes to the overall safety and reliability of the container, while simplifying the system architecture by avoiding complex active control components.

[0011] In another embodiment, the valve further comprises a body that can be attached to an opening of a container. In yet another embodiment, the body includes a fluid path to allow a fluid to pass through the valve and through a container wall. Advantageously, providing a body that can be attached to a container opening ensures secure and stable integration of the valve into various housing designs, such as battery housings or pressure vessels, without requiring complex modifications or special adaptations. The inclusion of a defined fluid path through the body enables controlled and directed movement of gases or liquids from the interior of the container to the external environment when pressure conditions require it. This supports both degassing under overpressure conditions and venting during normal operation, depending on the valve configuration.Together, the mountable body and internal fluid channel improve the valve's compatibility, ease of installation, and functional reliability across a range of system architectures.

[0012] In one embodiment, the valve further comprises at least one slide. In another embodiment, the slide is arranged to move within the fluid channel between an open and a closed position. In yet another embodiment, the movement of the slide changes the position of the solenoid relative to the switch. Advantageously, the inclusion of a movable slide within the fluid path allows precise control of the valve's opening and closing in response to internal pressure conditions. The slide acts as a mechanical barrier regulating the gas or fluid flow, thus improving the valve's ability to maintain a sealed environment under normal conditions while ensuring rapid venting when necessary.By linking the movement of the slider with the displacement of a magnet, the system ensures that actuating the slider simultaneously triggers a measurable change in the magnetic field detected by the switch. This integration allows a single mechanical movement to perform a dual function: pressure release and transmission of a diagnostic signal. Such coordination simplifies the overall design, reduces the number of components, and increases reliability by minimizing the number of moving parts required to achieve both fluid control and electronic feedback. The design also enables compact packaging, making it particularly suitable for space-constrained applications, such as battery housings in electric vehicles.

[0013] In one embodiment, the valve further comprises a liquid-permeable diaphragm. Advantageously, the inclusion of a liquid-permeable diaphragm allows for continuous pressure equalization between the interior of the battery pack housing and the external environment under normal operating conditions, without the need for the valve to be fully opened. This "breathing" functionality prevents the build-up of minor pressure differentials caused by thermal expansion, changes in altitude, or normal charge and discharge cycles, thereby maintaining the structural integrity of the battery housing and reducing mechanical stress on seals and housing interfaces. The diaphragm can be configured to block the ingress of external contaminants, such as water, dust, or electrolyte vapors, thus protecting the internal environment while allowing safe gas exchange.By allowing passive venting of low-pressure fluctuations, the diaphragm reduces the frequency of full valve actuations, which increases the durability and long-term reliability of the battery system.

[0014] In one embodiment, the valve further comprises preloading means to press the valve into either an open or a closed position. In another embodiment, the preloading means press the slide into either an open or a closed position. Advantageously, the use of preloading means ensures that the valve or slide reliably returns to its initial position after an actuation operation, maintaining consistent operating and sealing characteristics. When the preloading means are configured to press the valve or slide into a closed position, they help maintain the sealed condition of the battery pack housing under normal pressure conditions, preventing unplanned venting and protecting internal components.Conversely, if designed to push the valve or slide into an open position, they can facilitate rapid and complete venting upon reaching the actuation threshold. The preload mechanism also reduces the likelihood of mechanical sticking or incomplete resealing after venting, thereby increasing the valve's reliability during repeated pressure cycles. This contributes to the overall safety and stability of the battery system, particularly in demanding vehicle environments where vibration, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical shocks are common.

[0015] In one embodiment, if a slide valve is provided, the magnet is arranged to assist movement of the slide valve and / or at least temporary positional stability of the slide valve. Advantageously, using the magnet to assist or stabilize the movement of the slide valve increases the responsiveness and reliability of the valve under dynamic pressure conditions. By contributing an additional magnetic force to actuate or stabilize the slide valve, the magnet can help ensure that the slide valve moves without delay when required, such as during a rapid pressure increase, and remains in the open position long enough to allow adequate venting. This can be particularly advantageous in scenarios with transient pressure spikes, where a purely mechanical preloading element could cause the slide valve to close prematurely.Conversely, magnetic attraction can also help hold the valve in the closed position under normal conditions, thus improving sealing. This dual functionality allows for more precise control of valve behavior without increasing mechanical complexity and supports more predictable and stable behavior across a range of operating pressures. This improves both venting and sealing performance, which is essential for the safety and lifespan of battery systems in electric vehicles.

[0016] In an advantageous embodiment, the electrical switch is snap-fitted to the valve. A snap-fit ​​connection advantageously allows for easy installation, removal, or replacement of the electrical switch without requiring disassembly of the entire valve or battery housing. This modular approach simplifies manufacturing, inspection, and maintenance processes, reduces assembly time, and enables efficient integration into various system architectures. It also allows for flexibility in selecting or upgrading the switch component independently of the valve body, accommodating different sensor specifications or communication protocols as needed. Furthermore, a secure clamping mechanism ensures consistent positioning of the switch relative to the magnet, thus maintaining reliable signal activation during valve operation.The temporary but stable connection further increases the adaptability of the design while maintaining the functionality of the valve and sensor system.

[0017] In one embodiment, the valve has a housing designed to accommodate the electrical switch. In another embodiment, the housing has a door. In yet another embodiment, the door is a hinged door. Advantageously, incorporating a separate housing for the electrical switch provides physical protection and precise positioning of the switch within the valve assembly, ensuring reliable operation in harsh environments such as those found in automotive applications. The housing isolates the switch from dust, moisture, vibration, and mechanical shock, preserving its sensitivity and extending its service life. Having a door, particularly a hinged door, allows easy access to the switch for installation, inspection, testing, or replacement without disturbing the rest of the valve or housing.A hinged design allows the door to remain attached during maintenance, reducing the risk of misplacement and simplifying handling. This enhances the maintainability and modularity of the valve system while ensuring the switch remains securely enclosed during normal operation. Overall, the housing and door combination improves reliability, maintainability, and integration flexibility in battery systems for electric vehicles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Embodiments of the invention are described below only by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. Figure 1 illustrates a valve in A) a closed position, B) an open position and C) a return to a closed position. Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a valve where the different elements are labeled. Fig. Figure 3 illustrates another valve in A) a closed position and B) an open position. Fig. Figure 4 illustrates the valve of Fig. 3 in the closed position, where the different elements are marked. Fig. Figures 5 A)-D) illustrate an alternative valve. Fig. Figures 6 A)-D) illustrate an alternative valve. Fig. Figures 7 A)-D) illustrate an alternative valve. Fig. Figures 8 A)-D) illustrate an alternative valve. Fig. Figures 9 A)-D) illustrate an alternative valve. Fig. Figures 10 A)-D) illustrate an alternative valve. Fig. Figures 11 A)-E) illustrate an alternative valve. Fig. Figure 12 illustrates another valve in A) a closed position and B) an open position. Fig. Figure 13 illustrates a valve body in A) a first variant, B) a second variant and C) a third variant. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Certain terms are used in the following description for simplicity only and do not represent a limitation. The words "right," "left," "lower," "upper," "front," "back," "upward," "downward," and "downward" denote directions referenced in the drawings and refer to the described component when it is mounted and installed. The words "inner," "inward," "outward," and "outward" refer to directions toward or away from a designated center line or geometric center point of a described element (e.g., center axis), the respective meaning being readily apparent from the context of the description.

[0020] Furthermore, the terms "connected," "fastened," "coupled," and "mounted" used herein are intended to denote both direct connections between two elements without any intervening elements and indirect connections between elements where one or more other elements are intervening. The terminology includes the words explicitly mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings.

[0021] Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the use of ordinal adjectives such as "first", "second", and "third", etc., merely indicates that reference is being made to different instances of the same objects, without implying that the objects thus described must be in a particular order, be it temporal, spatial, rank-wise, or otherwise.

[0022] The same reference symbols are used consistently to represent identical features. Fig. Figure 1 shows a valve 1202 in A) a closed position, B) an open position, and C) a closed position after returning from the open position. The valve 1202 has a body 1210 and a valve component with interacting magnetic means to close the valve component when the pressure falls below the attractive force of the magnetic means and to open the valve component when the pressure exceeds this attractive force (thus providing a degassing function). The valve component can be configured to move between an open and a closed position relative to the body. The valve component can have a stop to prevent further movement when it reaches the open position. The valve component can be made of plastic or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).The valve component may include a porous or otherwise fluid-permeable diaphragm 1216 (providing a venting function). The magnetic means may be a permanent magnet 1208, such as a ring magnet or a ferromagnetic ring. The body may include a reed switch or other suitable electrical switch 1206 configured to change state when the distance between the magnetic means reaches a certain value and sends a signal to the electronic control unit (ECU) that thermal runaway has occurred. The body may include a sealing element made of TPE or rubber to ensure watertightness.

[0023] Closed state ( Fig. 1A): The attraction between the magnetic ring and the ferromagnetic material keeps the valve closed, with the TPE or elastomer sliding element sealing against the valve body and ensuring watertightness. Air can flow through the optional porous membrane.

[0024] The normally closed (NC) reed switch keeps the circuit open thanks to the proximity of the magnetic ring.

[0025] Open state ( Fig. 1B): The pressure within the closed system, such as a battery pack, exceeds a certain threshold sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction, thereby lifting the sliding element and opening the valve to release internal gases. This rapid pressure relief prevents further escalation of thermal events or casing rupture. The reed switch closes as its distance from the magnet increases, and the magnetic field strength at the switch falls below its activation threshold, sending a signal to the ECU that a thermal runaway or other critical pressure event has occurred.

[0026] When the pressure decreases, the magnetic attraction brings the valve back to a closed position, and the reed switch returns to the open state ( Fig. 1C, see arrows). The system therefore operates with passive mechanical behavior and automatic electronic signaling, without requiring manual intervention.

[0027] The purpose of incorporating the reed switch is to obtain electronic information when the valve exceeds a specific outgassing threshold (open or closed state), indicating that the accumulator is in the overpressure phase. To achieve this, a solenoid and a reed switch are integrated into a compact (flat) valve configuration. This reed switch transmits the information loss or pass-through, depending on whether the valve is normally open or normally closed. The signal can be used by the control system for early warning, automated shutdown, or diagnostic logging. Depending on packaging and signal routing requirements, the reed switch is integrated into the valve body, either on its inner or outer surface. The solenoid is integrated into a moving part of the valve, such as a sliding cap or bonnet.When the valve cover (hood) opens under a specific pressure, a solenoid triggers the reed switch at a displacement calibrated to the reed switch's sensitivity, moving the switch to the required open or closed position. This is calibrated according to the user's expectations and the reed switch's performance, including parameters such as the trigger distance, hysteresis, and magnetic field strength. The reed switch can change its position upon reaching a predefined threshold (i.e., a certain degree of valve opening).

[0028] The reed switch can be located inside the valve or outside the valve body. It can be integral with the valve or separate from it. If separate, the reed switch can snap onto the valve to allow for easy manufacturing and / or replacement without removing or replacing the valve itself.

[0029] Ideally, the switch arrangement should not negatively affect the overall size of the valve (i.e., the size of the valve without the reed switch remains the same), and furthermore, the switch should not impair the function of the valve (i.e., hinder or affect the fluid flow through the valve).

[0030] The reed switch can be designed to detect the proximity of a metal and / or a magnet. The output of the reed switch can be transmitted via an electrically conductive wire or via wireless communication, for example, using low-power RF transmitters integrated into the switch housing.

[0031] The reed switch should preferably be protected from the environment and from the ingress of contaminants or conditions that would impair its operation (e.g., temperature and humidity, vibration, or contamination) wherever it is installed. This can be achieved through encapsulation, seals, or dedicated enclosures designed to meet the relevant ingress protection (IP) standards.

[0032] Fig. 2 represents the valve of Fig. Figure 1A shows the closed position, with the elements labeled. The drawing includes both required and optional elements, with optional features specifically indicated to represent configuration-dependent implementations. This view provides a reference for identifying the components and aids in understanding how individual parts interact in the sealing (closed) state.

[0033] Fig. 3 represents a similar valve 1202 as in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The valve differs in that a spring or other suitable preloading means 1218 is provided which acts on the sliding component to control its position. The spring or other suitable preloading means 1218 biases the valve either into the open or closed position (depending on the spring used) and ensures that the valve does not jam in a particular position, while also guaranteeing an immediate return to an alternative position.

[0034] Fig. 3A represents the valve in a closed position. Fig. Figure 3B shows the valve in an open position. The valve operates similarly to the one described in Figure 3B. Fig. Figure 1 shows the key difference being the use of an active preload element to assist the return movement, rather than relying solely on magnetic attraction. This provides additional design flexibility for tuning the valve behavior under various pressure scenarios.

[0035] Fig. 4 represents the valve of Fig. Figure 3A shows the valve in the closed position, with the elements labeled. Both essential and optional components are identified, with optional features marked to indicate their applicability in specific configurations or variants. This detailed labeling aids in understanding the internal layout and operation of the valve in the sealed state.

[0036] There are several electrical switches 1206 available to choose from, and the size, shape and configuration of the selected switch can give the valve 1202 advantageous properties. Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 represents valves 1202 with electrical switches 1206 (e.g. a reed switch) which are relatively flat and therefore reduce the profile of the valve 1202.

[0037] The electrical switch 1206 from Fig. 6 is chip-protected for increased durability and can be easily attached to the 1202 valve via a snap-in bracket, allowing for quick and secure connection to the vehicle.

[0038] The electrical switch 1206 from Fig. 7 has an angled profile and is designed to capture only magnetized and not non-magnetic materials (e.g., pure ferrous metals without residual magnetism).

[0039] The electrical switch 1206 from Fig. 8 has a flat profile and is designed to detect only magnetized materials and reject signals from surrounding conductive but non-magnetic components.

[0040] In this Fig. In the configuration shown in Figure 8, the 1206 electric switch provides a space-saving solution, as the solenoid can be positioned above the 1210 valve body instead of being enclosed within it. Certain switch types can support flexible or adaptive connection options, including pluggable or wireless interfaces, depending on system requirements.

[0041] The electrical switch 1206 from Fig. 10 makes it possible to position the magnet under the valve body 1210, providing an alternative space-saving solution.

[0042] The electrical switch 1206 from Fig. Due to its small size and the fact that it can be inserted into the body 1210 from below (i.e., inside the container 1204), part 11 offers an alternative space-saving solution. This design allows for integration without increasing the external space required by the valve.

[0043] In image A) of Fig. 5 to Fig. Eleven of the dimensions are relative differences. These dimensional differences are expressed as ratios (e.g., in millimeters) to compare height, width, and depth across configurations. Fig. For example, valve 1202 can have a depth of 20.6 units in relation to a width of 81.5 units, indicating a relatively flat design.

[0044] Fig. Figure 12 represents a valve 1202 suitable for releasing pressure from a container 1204. The valve 1202 has an electrical switch (such as, but not limited to, a reed switch). In this context, the switch is designed to be actuated by the valve 1202, so that the switch detects an operating state of the valve 1202. The switch can be actuated by variations in a local magnetic field.

[0045] To generate variations in the local magnetic field, a magnet is placed near the electrical switch. "Nearby" here refers to a distance at which the magnetic field is sufficient to trigger or deactivate the switch. The effective distance can vary depending on the magnet's strength, the switch's sensitivity, environmental conditions, and mechanical tolerances.

[0046] Actuating valve 1202 changes the position of solenoid 1208 relative to electrical switch 1206, and thus the local magnetic field. Electrical switch 1206 is therefore actuated in response to the variation in the magnetic field.

[0047] Optionally, the valve can be configured to move to an open position when a threshold pressure is reached.

[0048] The valve 1202 can further comprise a body 1210 which can be attached to an opening of a container 1204.

[0049] Optionally, the body can have a fluid path to allow a fluid to pass through a container wall 1212 via the valve.

[0050] Optionally, the valve can have at least one slide 1214 for regulating the fluid flow (fluids can be liquids or gases). The slide 1214 can be arranged to move within the fluid path between an open position and a closed position, and optionally, the movement of the slide can also change the position of the solenoid relative to the switch.

[0051] The valve can further comprise a fluid-permeable diaphragm 1216 in addition to, or instead of, the slide valve 1214. The fluid-permeable diaphragm 1216 can allow a predetermined quantity of fluid to pass through the valve 1202 without actuation of the electrical switch 1206.

[0052] The valve may have preloading means 1218 (such as a spring or a weight) to push the valve either into an open position or a closed position. If a slide valve 1214 is provided, the preloading means 1218 may be arranged to push the at least one slide valve either into an open position or a closed position.

[0053] The magnet can also be arranged to support the movement of the slide 1214 and / or at least temporarily stabilize its position to ensure adequate venting and to prevent the preloading means 1218 from operating too quickly.

[0054] This disclosure relates to a venting valve 1202 designed for electric vehicle batteries. The valve consists of a body attached to the battery casing, which includes an electrical switch (e.g., a reed switch) and movable elements held in place by a biasing device 1218 (e.g., a spring). These elements include a magnet and a fluid-permeable diaphragm. As the internal battery pressure increases, air can escape through the porous surface. If the pressure exceeds a certain threshold, overcoming the spring resistance, the movable elements open further, allowing for greater venting. During this process, the magnets move away from the reed switch, causing the magnetic field at the switch to weaken, thereby closing the circuit and sending an electrical signal to the control unit.The magnets can also assist in opening the valve by adding their force to the venting pressure. Once the pressure normalizes, the spring returns the moving parts to their original position, and the reed switch opens, interrupting the signal to the control unit.

[0055] Fig. Figure 13 represents valve body 1210 with alternative fastening means for the electrical switch 1206. Fig. In Figure 13A, the electrical switch (1206) is arranged such that it is snap-fitted to the valve 1202 (i.e., fastened via a clamp connection). This is indicated in the figure as clamp 1306, which is arranged to grip the electrical switch and hold it in a position relative to the body 1210. Alternatively, the clamp can be integrated into the electrical switch itself (see Figure 13A). Fig. 6), wherein the body 1210 provides a suitable fastening feature for secure insertion.

[0056] Alternatively or additionally and as in Fig. As shown in Figure 13B, the valve can have a housing 1302 arranged to accommodate the electrical switch and to at least partially surround the electrical switch 1206 in order to maintain the position of the electrical switch relative to the body. Furthermore, the housing 1302 can optionally include a door 1304 (see Figure 13B). Fig. 13C) which is arranged to close on the electrical switch in order to keep the electrical switch inside the housing 1302. The door may be provided with a hinge to allow the door to swing open and closed relative to the housing 1302.

[0057] A locking mechanism may be provided to hold the door in the open position or (sequentially) in the open or closed position. The locking mechanism may be provided independently of the presence of a hinge.

[0058] These configurations allow for flexible and modular installation of the electrical switch, and support easy assembly, maintenance and replacement across different valve architectures.

[0059] Experts in the field understand that the foregoing detailed examples are merely illustrative and in no way limiting, and that various changes and modifications are possible without deviating from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Various modifications to the detailed examples described above are possible.

[0060] Throughout the description and claims of this patent application, the words "comprising" and "containing," and their variations, mean "including, but not limited to," and are not intended to exclude or exclude any other proportions, additions, components, integers, or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this patent application, the singular includes the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the patent application is to be understood as including both the plural and the singular unless the context otherwise requires.Features, integers, properties, compounds, chemical units, or groups described in connection with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example of the invention are to be understood as applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, or example described herein, provided they are not incompatible with it. All features disclosed in this patent application (including all accompanying claims, abstracts, and drawings) and / or all steps of a method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except for combinations in which at least some of these features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not limited to the details of the aforementioned embodiments.The invention extends to any novel feature or novel combination of the features disclosed in this patent application (including the attached claims, abstract or drawings) or to any novel feature or novel combination of the steps of a method or process so disclosed.

Claims

[1] Valve suitable for releasing pressure build-up from a container, comprising the valve: an electrical switch that can be operated by variations in a local magnetic field; a magnet near the electrical switch; where actuating the valve changes the position of the magnet in relation to the electrical switch, thus varying the local magnetic field. [2] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the valve is configured to move into an open position when a threshold pressure is reached. [3] Valve according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a body that can be attached to an opening of a container, optionally wherein the body has a fluid path to allow a fluid to pass through a container wall via the valve. [4] Valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the valve further comprises at least one slide, optionally wherein the slide is arranged such that it moves within the fluid path between an open position and a closed position, further optionally wherein the movement of the slide changes the position of the magnet with respect to the switch. [5] Valve according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a fluid-permeable membrane. [6] Valve according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the valve further comprises preloading means to press the valve either into an open position or a closed position, wherein the preloading means optionally press the at least one slide into an open position or a closed position. [7] Valve according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, if a slide valve is provided, the magnet is arranged to assist movement of the slide valve and / or at least temporary positional stability of the slide valve. [8] Valve according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical switch (1206) is arranged to be latchably connected to the valve (1202). [9] Valve according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the valve has a housing arranged to accommodate the electrical switch. [10] Valve according to claim 9, wherein the housing (1302) has a door (1304), the door being optionally a hinged door.

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