Vent valve and vehicle battery pack with this

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a vent valve and a vehicle battery pack comprising such a valve. The vent valve includes a main body comprising a first end, a second end, and a through-hole extending from the first end to the second end; a breathable membrane connected to the first end and covering the through-hole; a top cover covering the breathable membrane; and a first opening and a second opening connected to each other, the first opening and the second opening being offset from each other in an axial and / or circumferential direction. Compared to existing solutions, the technical solution of the present disclosure can provide better protection for internal structures, such as...The breathable membrane provides further reduction of the overall structural complexity of the vent valve and improves the durability of its functionality, thereby increasing user satisfaction.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to a vent valve and a vehicle battery pack incorporating this. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the current state of the art, vent valves can be used for gas / pressure equalization between enclosed spaces and the outside environment to achieve a desired pressure equalization. These vent valves have various structures and applications in different scenarios, one of which involves electrified vehicles. The development of electrified vehicles has progressed rapidly due to their advantages in terms of reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. A typical electrified vehicle includes a battery pack. The use of a vent valve within the battery pack is also widespread.

[0003] Various vent valve configurations exist in the prior art. For example, US20160036025 discloses a pressure relief valve for a battery housing, comprising a support element, a breathable and waterproof membrane, and a clamping frame that presses the breathable and waterproof membrane against the support element. Spring elements on the clamping frame further restrict movement through a cover.

[0004] The inventors of the present disclosure have recognized that such a prior art structure, with regard to the overall structural complexity and the stability of the functionality of the vent valve, which leads to one or more problems prevalent in the prior art, is still capable of improvement. SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure summarizes aspects of the embodiments and should not be used to limit the claims. Further implementations are being considered according to the methods described herein, as will be apparent to a person skilled in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description, and such implementations are intended to fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0006] The inventors of the present application have recognized that addressing technical problems, such as those mentioned above, requires a vent valve and a vehicle battery pack incorporating it, which can further reduce the overall structural complexity of the vent valve and improve the durability of its functionality, thereby increasing user satisfaction.

[0007] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a venting valve is provided, comprising the following: a main body comprising a first end, a second end and a through-hole extending from the first end to the second end; a breathable membrane that is connected to the first end and covers the through-hole; an upper cover covering the breathable membrane; and a first opening and a second opening connected to each other, the first opening and the second opening being offset from each other in an axial direction and / or a circumferential direction.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first opening and / or the second opening is / are positioned on the main body of the vent valve. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first opening and / or the second opening is / are positioned on the upper cover. In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first opening and / or the second opening is / are positioned between the main body and the upper cover.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper cover comprises a cover body and a first flange extending from the cover body to the main body, the first opening is positioned between the first flange and the main body, the upper cover further comprises a baffle device arranged radially inwards from the first opening, and the second opening is positioned at one end of the baffle device next to the cover body.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper cover comprises a cover body and a first flange extending from the cover body to the main body, the first opening is positioned between the first flange and the main body, the main body further comprises a second flange arranged radially inwards from the first opening and extending to the cover body, and the second opening is positioned between the second flange and the cover body.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper cover comprises a cover body and a first flange extending from the cover body to the main body, the first opening is positioned between the first flange and the main body and extends around the circumference along a first segment of the upper cover, the upper cover further comprises a baffle device arranged radially inwards from the first opening, the second opening is positioned on the baffle device and extends around the circumference along a second segment of the upper cover, and the first segment and the second segment are offset from each other around the circumference.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper cover comprises a cover body and a first flange extending from the cover body to the main body, the first opening is positioned between the first flange and the main body and extends around the circumference along a first segment of the upper cover, the main body further comprises a second flange arranged radially inward from the first opening and extending to the cover body, the second opening is positioned on the second flange and extends around the circumference along a second segment of the upper cover, and the first segment and the second segment are offset from each other around the circumference.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the main body further comprises an engagement section extending outwards across the circumference between the first end and the second end, and the engagement section comprises a first connection surface for connecting an airtightness testing device.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the main body further comprises a support section positioned on a first side of the engagement section and configured to connect the breathable membrane, and a connecting section positioned on a second side of the engagement section, and the breathable membrane has a first state in which the breathable membrane is adapted to the support section and seals the through-hole, and a second state in which the breathable membrane is out of engagement with the through-hole.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the support section further comprises a second fluid passage which directly connects the through-hole to the second opening in the second state.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the support section comprises a first support section comprising several holes, a second support section surrounding the first support section and transitioning smoothly to the outside, and a third support section surrounding the second support section and comprising the second fluid passage, wherein in the first state the breathable membrane adapts to the first support section and the second support section and is connected to the third support section, and wherein in the second state the breathable membrane is relatively spaced from the first support section and the second support section, thereby connecting the second fluid passage directly to the second opening.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the third support section is connected to the second support section via one or more spaced-apart suspension ribs.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the engagement section has a radial dimension that is larger than a radial dimension of the upper cover.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first connection surface is oriented radially outwards.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first connecting surface has a first groove and a first sealing ring is partially arranged in the first groove.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper cover further comprises a first snap-in connection section and the first snap-in connection section can be engaged with a second snap-in connection section on the main body.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second side of the engagement section is provided with a second groove that surrounds and is spaced apart from the connecting section, and a second sealing ring is partially arranged in the second groove.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second sealing ring comprises several spaced-apart projecting ribs on it.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first end of the main body comprises a grid support frame for supporting the breathable membrane and the second end is connected to a protective plate comprising several holes.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper cover comprises an outer projection configured for engagement with a first tool, and a third groove configured for engagement with a second tool is formed in the outer projection.

[0026] Another aspect of the present disclosure also provides a venting valve comprising the following: a main body comprising the following: a first end; a second end; a through hole extending from the first end to the second end; and an engagement section positioned between the first end and the second end and extending outwards across the circumference, the engagement section comprising a first connection surface for connecting an airtightness testing device; a breathable membrane connected to the first end; and a top cover covering the breathable membrane.

[0027] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle battery set is also provided which includes a vent valve according to one of the above embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0028] For a better understanding of the present disclosure, reference may be made to the embodiments shown in the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, and relevant elements may have been omitted, or in some cases, proportions may have been enlarged to emphasize and clearly illustrate the new features described in this disclosure. Furthermore, the system components may be arranged in various ways, as is known in the art. Additionally, identical reference numerals in all the different figures refer to the same parts. Fig. Figure 1 represents a schematic diagram of a vehicle comprising a vehicle battery set according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view of a vehicle battery pack comprising a vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 3 shows an expanded view of the vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the vent valve from the side of an upper cover according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 5 represents a perspective view of the vent valve from the side of a main body according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the vent valve with the top cover removed, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 7 represents a perspective view of a main body of the vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 8 shows an expanded perspective view of a breathable membrane of the vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 9 shows a top view of a breathable membrane of the vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 10 shows a top view of a breathable membrane of the vent valve according to one or more further embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 11 shows a top view of a breathable membrane of the vent valve according to one or more further embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 12 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a main body and a breathable membrane of the vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 13 shows an axial cross-sectional view of a main body of the vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 14 shows an axial cross-sectional view of a circumferential section of the vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 15 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure with a breathable membrane in a first state; Fig. Figure 16 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the vent valve according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure with a breathable membrane in a second state; Fig. Figure 17 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the vent valve and an airtightness testing device connected thereto according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 18 shows an axial cross-sectional view of a vent valve according to one or more further embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 19 shows a top view of a section to which a first flange and a baffle device of a venting valve are associated according to one or more further embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 20 shows a top view of a section to which a first flange and a second flange of a vent valve are associated according to one or more further embodiments of the present disclosure; and Fig. Figure 21 shows an axial cross-sectional view of a vent valve according to one or more further embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The following describes embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it should be obvious that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples and that other embodiments may take various alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Some features may be enlarged or reduced to show details of certain components. Therefore, the specific details of structure and function disclosed here should not be considered a limitation, but merely a representative basis for teaching the person skilled in the art how to use the present disclosure in various ways.As is obvious to the person skilled in the art, the various features shown and described with reference to any one figure can be combined with the features shown in one or more other figures to create embodiments not expressly shown or described. The combinations of features shown here provide representative embodiments for typical applications. However, various combinations and modifications of features according to the teachings of this disclosure may be desirable for specific particular applications or implementations.

[0030] In this writing, when an element or part is referred to as being "on," "joined with," "connected with," or "coupled with" another element or part, the element or part may be directly on top of another element or part, joined, connected, or coupled with another element or part, or there may be elements or parts in between. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly joined with," "directly connected with," or "directly coupled with" another element or part, there may be no elements or parts in between. Other phrases used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted similarly.

[0031] As mentioned above in the background, the inventors of the present disclosure have recognized that there is still room for improvement in the prior art technical solution of the vent valve. A vent valve and a vehicle battery pack incorporating it are needed that can further reduce the overall structural complexity of the vent valve and improve the durability of its functions, thereby increasing user satisfaction. In light of these problems and the potential for improvement in the prior art, the inventors of the present disclosure propose, in one or more embodiments, a vent valve and a vehicle battery pack incorporating it, which are believed to solve one or more problems in the prior art.

[0032] First, it Fig. Figure 1 generally represents a schematic diagram of a vehicle 10 comprising a battery pack 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. It is understood that, in the context of the present disclosure, the vehicle 10 implementing the present disclosure may refer to any means of transport comprising a vehicle battery pack, such as, among others, fossil fuel-powered vehicles, electric vehicles (such as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), full hybrid electric vehicles (FHEVs), mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs), or battery electric vehicles (BEVs)), and even ships, aircraft, etc. The vehicle 10 may include mobility-related components such as a power unit, electric motor, transmission, suspension, drive shaft, and / or wheels, and the like. The vehicle 10 may be non-autonomous, semi-autonomous (e.g.,Some conventional motion functions are controlled independently by the vehicle) or autonomously (e.g., motion functions are controlled independently by the vehicle without direct input from a user).

[0033] Fig. Figure 2 is a top view of a battery pack 100, which can be integrated into the electrified vehicle 10 described above. As shown in the figure, the battery pack 100 comprises a housing 110, which can be composed of an upper cover plate 112 and a lower shell 114. Several reinforcing structures and connection points can be provided around the housing 110, which are omitted here and are not shown and will not be described individually for the sake of brevity. The battery pack 100 is connected to ambient air by means of an air guide 120 and a vent valve connected to the battery pack below the air guide 120. It is understood that in other embodiments the vent valve can be connected directly to the battery pack without an additional air guide. The construction of the vent valve is explained below with reference to further drawings.It is clear to the person skilled in the art that, although the structure of the vent valve is discussed here in connection with a vehicle battery pack, various vent valves designed in the present disclosure are widely applicable to any corresponding scenario where it is necessary to maintain pressure equalization inside and outside a container.

[0034] With general reference to Fig. Figures 3 to 16 present an aspect of the present disclosure as illustrated in the figures, providing a vent valve 200 comprising a main body 202, a top cover 206, a breathable membrane 204, a first opening 214, and a second opening 224. The main body 202 has a first end 202a and a second end 202b, with a through-hole 208 extending from the first end 202a to the second end 202b. The breathable membrane 204 is connected to the first end 202a and covers the through-hole 208, as shown in the figures. Fig. Figure 12 is shown. The upper cover 206 generally covers the breathable membrane 204 to provide protection.

[0035] For example, the upper cover 206 can be connected to the main body 202 by a snap-fit ​​connection or other suitable structure to cover the breathable membrane 204. The first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are interconnected, one of which is connected to the external environment and the other to the breathable membrane 204. The first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are offset from each other in an axial direction X and / or a circumferential direction Y.

[0036] In the description of the present disclosure, the vent valve 200 comprises the first opening 214 and the second opening 224; in other words, this means that the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 can be positioned between the upper cover 206 and the main body 202 of the vent valve 200 and / or on at least one element thereof. This includes, among other things, that: the first opening 214 and / or the second opening 224 are positioned on the main body 202; the first opening 214 and / or the second opening 224 are positioned on the upper cover 206; the first opening 214 and / or the second opening 224 are positioned between the main body 202 and the upper cover 206.In some embodiments, the positioning of the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 can further be described such that the following different situations are included: both the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are positioned on the upper cover 206; both are positioned on the main body 202; both are positioned between the upper cover 206 and the main body 202; one is positioned on the main body 202 and the other on the upper cover 206; one is positioned between the upper cover 206 and the main body 202 and the other on the upper cover 206; and one is positioned between the upper cover 206 and the main body 202 and the other on the main body 202, etc.It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the positions of the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 can be flexibly arranged according to the specific structure of various venting valves 200 without leaving the scope of protection of the concepts of the present disclosure.

[0037] In the context of this disclosure, the term “axial direction X” is intended to describe the direction of the line connecting the first end 202a and the second end 202b. The description “the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are offset from each other in the axial direction X” is intended to mean that the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are located in different positions, or in other words, are displaced relative to each other in the axial direction X. The term “circumferential direction Y” is intended to describe a direction around the outer periphery of a component. It is understood that the outer periphery of the component is not limited to the circular contour shown in the figures, but may include any other possible shape, such as, but not limited to, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc.The description "the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are offset from each other in the circumferential direction Y" means that: using the central position of the component as the projection center, the projections of the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 onto the outer periphery of the component lie at different angular positions, in other words, are offset from each other at an angle. Furthermore, the description "the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are offset from each other in the axial direction X and / or the circumferential direction Y" means that: the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are offset from each other in the axial direction X, the two are offset from each other in the circumferential direction Y, or the two are offset from each other in both the axial direction X and the circumferential direction Y.

[0038] Furthermore, at least one section of the breathable membrane 204 in this disclosure may comprise any existing or possibly developed material film that allows the passage of gas while blocking the passage of liquid, including, but not limited to, PU (polyurethane) film, TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) film and EPTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) film, etc., and its thickness is not specifically limited here.

[0039] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are provided on the vent valve 200 and are offset from each other in the axial direction X and / or the circumferential direction Y. In the designed structure of the vent valve 200, the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are offset from each other in the axial and / or circumferential direction, thereby allowing unimpeded airflow between the two openings while simultaneously preventing splash water, mud, dust, and abrasive particles generated during initial testing or inspection or driving of the vehicle, or the water stream sprayed during cleaning of the housing in which the vent valve 200 is located, from directly impacting the breathable membrane 204 and other components within the upper cover 206.This reduces or prevents the accumulation of liquids, dirt, and abrasion particles on the breathable membrane 204 and other components, which can affect breathability and related functions, and further reduces or prevents the potential impact of high-pressure water streams and other contaminants on the breathable membrane 204 and other components, thereby reducing the overall structural complexity of the vent valve and improving the durability of its operation, thus increasing user satisfaction.

[0040] With reference to Fig. 3 and simultaneously on Fig. In some embodiments, the upper cover 206 further comprises a cover body 218 and a first flange 220. The first flange 220 is bent away from the cover body 218 and extends to the main body 202. In this embodiment, the first opening 214 is positioned between the first flange 220 and the main body 202 and is formed by a gap between them. The gap may form a closed shape around the vent valve 200 or it may only be present around a section of the vent valve 200. The upper cover 206 further comprises a baffle 222, which is arranged radially inward (i.e., closer to the center point of the upper cover 206) from the first opening 214. The second opening 224 is located at the end of the baffle 222 adjacent to the cover 218, as shown in the illustration in Fig. 14 at the upper end. The second opening 224 can be one opening or several openings spaced apart from each other. In this embodiment, the first opening 214 and the second opening 224 are offset from each other in the axial direction X. The first flange 220 and the impact device 222 provide a staggered protective effect for the inner breathable membrane 204 and protect the breathable membrane 204 while simultaneously allowing airflow between the two openings. It is understood that the first opening 214 and / or the second opening 224 can be continuous openings extending around the circumference or multiple non-continuous openings spaced apart from each other.

[0041] With reference to Fig. 4. In some embodiments, the upper cover 206 is provided with an outer projection 250 configured for engagement with a first tool, such as, among others, an external hex key or socket. Furthermore, the outer projection 250 has a third groove 252 configured for engagement with a second tool, such as, among others, an Allen key. The outer projection 250 and the third groove 252 can be adapted to different disassembly tools to allow for flexible disassembly and assembly of the upper cover 206.

[0042] With reference to Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 According to some embodiments, a grid support frame 246 is attached to the first end 202a of the main body 202 to support the breathable membrane 204 and ensures sufficient breathability while simultaneously providing good support for the breathable membrane 204. When the breathable membrane 204 moves under the influence of gas pressure, the grid support frame 246 provides support for the breathable membrane 204, thereby preventing excessive movement and potential damage. A protective plate 248 with several through-holes is attached to the second end 202b of the main body 202. The through-holes in the protective plate 248 prevent abrasion particles that may be present in the housing (e.g.,the housing 110 of the battery set 100), to which the vent valve 200 is attached, may be present, penetrate into the through-hole 208 and block it, thereby improving the stability of the functionality of the vent valve 200.

[0043] With reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 and at the same time also Fig. In some embodiments, the upper cover 206 includes a first snap-fit ​​section 236, and the main body 202 includes a second snap-fit ​​section 238. The first snap-fit ​​section 236 and the second snap-fit ​​section 238 can be engaged, for example, via a snap connection to enable quick installation and disassembly between the upper cover 206 and the main body 202. The figures illustrate four snap-fit ​​points; however, the number of snap-fit ​​points can be adjusted to more or fewer as required in practical applications. Furthermore, the connection is not limited to a snap-fit ​​connection. For example, it can be a screw connection.

[0044] With reference to the following Fig. 8 and Fig. In some embodiments, the breathable membrane 204 comprises a first section 204a and a second section 204b. The breathability of the first section 204a differs from that of the second section 204b. This means that the breathability of one section is higher than that of the other.

[0045] For example, without limitation, one section can be breathable while the other is not. In this embodiment, the breathable membrane 204 is subdivided, and different breathability levels are defined for each section. This allows for better adaptation of the vent valve 200 to different operating conditions / application scenarios. For example, by individualizing the breathability of different sections, the respective section can generate intended multi-phase morphological changes at various predetermined pressures. This includes, among other things, localized deformation, expansion, rupture, etc., achieved through variations in breathability / thickness between sections, thereby producing correspondingly different venting efficiencies and pressure exchange effects as required. Consequently, diverse functions are realized within a compact structure.Furthermore, selecting different breathability levels for different parts allows for the use of more complex, waterproof-breathable materials only in specific areas, without compromising performance. Section 204a (first) and Section 204b (second) can be joined together, for example, by welding, bonding, or by forming an integral part.

[0046] With continued reference to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 and simultaneously on Fig. 6 and Fig. In the illustrated embodiment, the first section 204a of the breathable membrane 204 covers at least part of the through-hole 208, and the second section 204b is arranged to surround the first section 204a. This arrangement allows the vent valve 200 to be easily customized for different operating conditions / application scenarios. For example, when used in a vehicle battery pack to meet the different breathability requirements of various packs, only the first section 204a needs to be replaced with different sizes to achieve the desired breathability. This further simplifies the overall manufacturing process.

[0047] In further embodiments, the breathability of the first section 204a of the breathable membrane 204 is higher than that of the second section 204b, which surrounds the first section 204a. Positioning the first section 204a, which has the higher breathability, such that it covers the through-hole 208 and is located within the second section 204b, allows its breathability to be fully utilized and results in a more balanced stress distribution across the entire breathable membrane 204. Additionally, since the section with the higher breathability generally requires a more complex manufacturing process, this configuration can also simplify the overall manufacturing process to a certain extent.According to some further embodiments, the centrally positioned first section 204a of the breathable membrane 204 comprises a waterproof and breathable membrane, and the peripheral second section 204b comprises a non-breathable, elastically expandable material. For example, the first section 204a can comprise PU (polyurethane) film, TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) film, and EPTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) film, etc., while the second section 204b can comprise materials that are non-breathable but whose manufacturing processes are simple, such as rubber film, among others. Therefore, the size of the first section 204a can be fixed only in the central, critical venting area, as required. This further simplifies the overall manufacturing process and avoids potential internal condensation problems associated with an excessively large breathable membrane.

[0048] Furthermore, both the first section 204a and the second section 204b of the breathable membrane 204 can each cover at least part of the through-hole 208, with the second section 204b adjoining the first section 204a. The first section 204a and the second section 204b can be arranged in any conceivable configuration, such as evenly distributed on the left and right, a larger section next to a smaller one, etc. The shape of the boundary between them can be determined as required, for example, straight, curved, zigzag, etc. The first section 204a and the second section 204b can be integral or independent. This allows the desired effects to be achieved for different operating conditions / application scenarios, such as tearing, deformation, or the like, at various predetermined pressures to achieve the intended multi-phase venting effects.

[0049] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the thickness of the second section 204b of the breathable membrane 204 can be greater than the thickness of the first section 204a. By specifying different thicknesses between sections, it is possible to flexibly customize the deformation effect of the membrane while simultaneously achieving the desired breathability, thus enabling different multi-phase venting effects. Depending on the structural and design requirements, the first section 204a and the second section 204b can be integrally formed from the same or different materials, or bonded or welded together.

[0050] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, according to some further embodiments of the present disclosure, the breathable membrane 204 can further comprise a third section 204c with a breathability different from that of the first section 204a and the second section 204b. The first section 204a, the second section 204b, and the third section 204c can each cover at least a portion of the through-hole 208. In some embodiments, the first section 204a, the second section 204b, and the third section 204c can be independent of one another, so that tearing or stretching of one of them does not affect the other two. In further embodiments, the three sections can also form a single unit. For example, they can be joined by gluing, welding, integral forming, etc.The first section 204a, the second section 204b, and the third section 204c are configured with different breathability to provide various forms of expansion, lifting, or rupture under different pressure conditions, thereby achieving customizable multi-phase venting rates. This allows the desired effects to be achieved for different operating conditions / application scenarios. In some embodiments, the breathable membrane, comprising the first and second sections with different breathability, can be modularly configured according to the required valve breathability for different vehicle models, battery configurations, etc. Fig. Figure 11 further presents an exemplary scenario in which the breathable membrane 204 comprises a first section 204a, a second section 204b, a third section 204c, and a fourth section 204d, each with different breathability. It is understood that, depending on the specific working conditions / application scenarios, more or fewer sections may be provided without deviating from the concepts of this disclosure.

[0051] With reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 15 In some embodiments, the breathable membrane 204 can be connected to the main body 202 by welding via a welding ring 254. For example, the welding ring 254 can be positioned at the outer periphery of the breathable membrane 204 and form a substantially circular continuous ring. The breathable membrane 204 is connected to the main body 202 by welding, thereby achieving a better sealing effect. In other embodiments, the connection between the welding ring 254 and the breathable membrane 204 can be non-continuous. This allows the formation of several separate channels around the circumference with a certain pressure, which permit air to flow directly without passing through the breathable membrane 204, thus enabling different venting efficiencies at different pressures.In some further embodiments, the breathable membrane 204 can be connected to the main body 202 via a snap-fit ​​connection. For example, the breathable membrane 204 can be snapped / clamped at its edge to a predetermined position on the main body 202 using snap-fit ​​elements such as, but not limited to, elastic clips, elastic rings, interlocking column-shaped ends, annular grooves, and interlocking retaining rings, etc. Alternatively, a support frame can be provided on the outer periphery of the breathable membrane 204. The support frame and the corresponding snap-fit ​​sections on the main body 202 are positively fitted together to create a connection. This allows for more convenient installation and replacement.

[0052] With reference to Fig. 13 and Fig. In some embodiments, the main body 202 further comprises an engagement section 210. The engagement section 210 extends outwards around the circumference between the first end 202a and the second end 202b and forms an outer periphery, which, for example, has a flange shape. A first connection surface 212 for connecting an airtightness testing device 216 is also provided on the engagement section 210 (see connected state in Figure 1). Fig. 17) By providing the first connection surface 212 on the engagement section 210, connecting the airtightness testing device 216 to the vent valve 200 is facilitated. This practically enables airtightness inspection work in the housing to which the vent valve 200 is attached, such as the housing 110 of the battery pack 100. A practical airtightness inspection of both the attached battery pack and the valve is permitted while the valve itself is in its installed state, which is advantageous for further efficient and accurate airtightness detection.

[0053] With reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. In some embodiments, the radial dimension of the engagement section 210 is larger than the radial dimension of the upper cover 206. This means that the first connection surface 212 of the engagement section 210 is exposed on the outside, thus preventing any obstruction of the connection and airtightness testing of the airtightness testing device 216. Furthermore, the first connection surface 212 can point radially outwards, i.e., in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction. This structural arrangement allows the first connection surface 212 and the inner wall of the airtightness testing device 216 to be positively interlocked, thereby enabling the installation and fixing of the airtightness testing device 216.

[0054] With continued reference to Fig. A first groove 232 is provided on the first connection surface 212. For example, a substantially annular groove is formed around the circumference of the engagement section 210. The vent valve 200 further comprises a first sealing ring 234, for example, a substantially annular sealing ring, which is arranged around the circumference of the engagement section 210. The first sealing ring 234 is partially arranged in the first groove 232, thereby enabling a better airtight engagement between the airtightness testing device 216 and the first connection surface 212 of the vent valve 200 and allowing for a more effective internal airtightness test.

[0055] With reference to the following Fig. 15 and Fig. 16 and simultaneously on Fig. In some embodiments, the main body 202 comprises a support section 226 and a connecting section 228. The support section 226 is positioned on a first side 210a of the engagement section 210 and is configured to connect the breathable membrane 204. The connecting section 228 is positioned on a second side 210b of the engagement section 210 and is configured to connect to a housing to be installed, such as the housing 110 of the battery pack 100. The breathable membrane 204 can be in a first state as shown in Fig. 15, in which the pressure differential between inside and outside is small. In the first state, the breathable membrane 204 is adapted to the support section 226 and seals the through-hole 208. Gas exchange between the external environment of the vent valve 200 (e.g., the outside environment) and the interior of the vent valve 200 (e.g., within the housing 110 of the battery pack 100) occurs only through the corresponding breathability of the breathable membrane 204, whereby the gas exchange efficiency remains at a relatively low level. The breathable membrane 204 can further be in a second state as shown in Fig. 16 is located in a state where the pressure differential between the inside and outside is high. In the second state, the breathable membrane 204 expands and disengages from the through-hole 208, thus establishing a direct connection between the outside environment and the interior of the vent valve 200, resulting in higher gas exchange efficiency. In other words, when the gas pressure differential between the two sides of the vent valve 200 reaches a threshold, regardless of which side has the higher pressure, the breathable membrane 204 bulges into the second state. This causes the breathable membrane 204 to detach from the through-hole 208, forming a direct air passage and achieving higher venting efficiency. Thus, the vent valve 200 achieves multi-stage venting efficiency across different pressure ranges to adapt to varying operating conditions.Furthermore, in some embodiments where the first section 204a of the breathable membrane 204 has high breathability and the second section 204b has low or no breathability, different sizes of the first section 204a cause the overall lifting pressure exerted on the breathable membrane 204 by the pressure differential between the inside and outside to vary. Thus, the size of the first section 204a can be set differently according to different requirements (e.g., different battery sizes and models), thereby adjusting the lifting pressure. This means adjusting the pressure that triggers the transition of the breathable membrane 204 between the first and second states. This allows for demand-based adjustment of the state transition pressure.

[0056] As in Fig. 15 and Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the interior of the vent valve 200 in some embodiments comprises a first fluid passage F1, which connects the first opening 214 to the breathable membrane 204. The first fluid passage F1 comprises a first segment F1a and a second segment F1b at a specific angle between their flow directions, e.g., 180 degrees. The bending section between them forms the second opening 224. This configuration avoids potential shocks caused by direct impact of fluid or abrasive particles on the breathable membrane 204 and other internal components. The support section 226 further comprises a second fluid passage F2. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the second fluid passage F2 in the second state directly connects the through-hole 208 with the second opening 224, i.e., it is connected to the first fluid passage F1. This results in a direct connection between the through-hole 208 and the external environment in the second state, and the resulting higher venting efficiency.

[0057] With continued reference to Fig. 15 and Fig. 16 and simultaneously on Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 According to some embodiments, the support section 226 comprises a first support section 226a, a second support section 226b, and a third support section 226c. The first support section 226a covers the through-hole 208 and has several holes. The second support section 226b is arranged to surround the first support section 226a and transitions smoothly to the outside. The third support section 226c is arranged to surround the second support section 226b and has the second fluid passage F2. The third support section 226c is at least partially spaced away from the breathable membrane 204. In the first state, which is described in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the breathable membrane 204 is adapted to the first support section 226a and the second support section 226b and is connected to the third support section 226c. In the second state, which is shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the breathable membrane 204 is relatively spaced from the first support section 226a and the second support section 226b, with the second fluid passage F2 directly connecting the through-hole 208 to the second opening 224. The smooth transition of the second support section 226b allows for a tight connection between the breathable membrane 204 and the support section 226, thus ensuring good support and connection for the breathable membrane 204. The arrangement of the third support section 226c enables a direct connection between the through-hole 208 and the first fluid passage F1 via the second fluid passage F2 in the second state.

[0058] With renewed reference to Fig. 13 According to some embodiments, several spaced-apart suspension ribs 230 are arranged between the second support section 226b and the third support section 226c. The second support section 226b is connected to the third support section 226c via these suspension ribs 230, which is also visible in the perspective view of Fig. 7 is shown. The number of suspension ribs 230 can be adjusted as needed, e.g., one or more, and is not limited to the six shown in Fig. 7 is shown, limited. This allows the third support section 226c to be connected to the second support section 226b via a suspension connection, whereby the second fluid passage F2 is formed between the third support section 226c and the engagement section 210.

[0059] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 13, a second groove 240 is provided on the second side 210b of the engagement section 210. The second groove 240 is arranged such that it surrounds and is spaced apart from the connecting section 228. The vent valve 200 further comprises a second sealing ring 242, which is partially positioned in the second groove 240. This forms an airtight seal between the vent valve 200 and the housing to which it is attached, such as the housing 110 of the battery pack 100. The spacing of the second sealing ring 242 from the connecting section 228 also prevents the edge of the connecting section 228 or the through-hole in the housing / component to be connected from compressing the second sealing ring 242 during installation. In some further embodiments, the second sealing ring 242 has several spaced-apart projecting ribs 244 on it, as shown in Fig. Figure 3 shows how to achieve a stable fixation and fitting of the second sealing ring 242 in the second groove 240.

[0060] With reference to the in Fig. In further embodiments of the present disclosure, a vent valve 200' is provided in the cross-sectional view shown in Figure 18. The vent valve 200' can comprise an upper cover 206' and a main body 202'. The upper cover 206' comprises a cover body 218' and a first flange 220' extending from the cover body 218' to the main body 202'. A first opening 214' is positioned between the first flange 220' and the main body 202'. The main body 202' further comprises a second flange 256, which is arranged radially inward from the first opening 214' and extends to the cover body 218'. A second opening 224' is positioned between the second flange 256 and the cover body 218'. The first opening 214' and the second opening 224' are offset from each other in the axial direction X.In this structure, the second flange 256 is formed by the upward extension of the main body 202'. Through the interaction of the first flange 220' and the second flange 256, an axially staggered protective effect is created for the breathable membrane and other internal components, thereby achieving gas flow between the two openings and simultaneously protecting the breathable membrane and other internal components in an alternative manner.

[0061] Referring to the schematic diagram in Fig. In further embodiments of the present disclosure, a vent valve 200" is provided. The structure of unnumbered parts may be related to the drawings of embodiments related to the vent valve 200. The vent valve 200" may comprise an upper cover 206" and a main body. The upper cover 206" comprises a cover body and a first flange 220" extending from the cover body to the main body. A first opening 214" is positioned between the first flange 220" and the main body and extends around the circumference along a first segment A of the upper cover 206". The upper cover 206" further comprises a baffle device 222" arranged radially inward from the first opening 214".A second opening 224'' is positioned on the impact device and extends around the circumference along a second segment B of the upper cover 206'', with the first segment A and the second segment B being offset from each other around the circumference. In this structure, openings on different circumferential segments of the first flange 220'' and the impact device 222'' are configured to complement each other, creating a staggered protective effect around the circumference for the breathable membrane and other internal components, thereby achieving gas flow between the two openings and simultaneously protecting the breathable membrane and other internal components in an alternative manner.

[0062] Referring to the schematic diagram in Fig. In further embodiments of the present disclosure, a vent valve 200''' is provided. The structure of unnumbered parts may be related to the drawings of embodiments relating to the vent valve 200'. The vent valve 200''' may comprise an upper cover 206''' and a main body. The upper cover 206''' comprises a cover body and a first flange 220''' extending from the cover body to the main body. A first opening 214''' is positioned between the first flange 220''' and the main body 202 and extends around the circumference along a first segment A''' of the upper cover 206'''. The main body 202 further comprises a second flange 256''', which is arranged radially inward from the first opening 214''' and extends to the cover body 218.A second opening 224''' is positioned on the second flange 256''' and extends around the circumference along a second segment B''' of the upper cover 206''', with the first segment A''' and the second segment B''' being offset from each other around the circumference. In this structure, the second flange 256''' is formed by the upward extension of the main body. Openings are configured on different circumferential segments of the first flange 220''' and the second flange 256''' to complement each other, creating a staggered protective effect around the circumference for the breathable membrane and other internal components, thereby achieving gas flow between the two openings while simultaneously protecting the breathable membrane and other internal components in an alternative manner.

[0063] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a vent valve 300 is provided. With reference to Fig. Figure 21 comprises a main body 302, a breathable membrane 304, and a top cover 306. The main body 302 has a first end 302a, a second end 302b, and an engagement section 310. The engagement section 310 is positioned between the first end 302a and the second end 302b and extends outward around the circumference. A through-hole 308 extends through the main body 302 from the first end 302a to the second end 302b. The breathable membrane 304 is connected to the first end 302a and at least partially covers the through-hole 308. The top cover 306 covers the breathable membrane 304. The engagement section 310 has a first connection surface 312 for connecting an airtightness testing device.Providing the first connection surface 312 on the engagement section 310 facilitates the connection of the airtightness testing device to the vent valve 300, thus practically enabling airtightness inspection work in the housing to which the vent valve 300 is attached, such as the housing 110 of the battery pack 100. In the prior art, testing the airtightness of a battery pack often requires first removing the vent valve, then filling the battery pack with air through the opening used for valve installation, and finally testing its airtightness. However, it is difficult to confirm the integrity of the battery pack's seal after the vent valve has been reinstalled.The vent valve 300 allows for a practical airtightness inspection of the attached battery pack while the valve itself is in the installed state, which is advantageous for a more practical and accurate determination of the seal integrity.

[0064] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, with reference to Fig.2. A vehicle battery pack 100 is provided, comprising the vent valve 200, 200'', 200''' or 300 according to the description of one of the embodiments above. Likewise, it is understood that, provided they do not contradict each other, all implementations, features, and advantages described above for the vent valves 200, 200'', 200''' or 300 according to this disclosure apply equally to the vehicle battery pack 100 according to this further aspect. This means that all embodiments and variations thereof described above are directly transferable and integrable therein. For the sake of brevity, they are not repeated in this disclosure.

[0065] In short, the present disclosure proposes a vent valve and a vehicle battery pack incorporating this valve, in contrast to the prior art. Compared to the prior art, the technical solution of the present disclosure provides better protection for the breathable membrane and other internal components, further reduces the overall structural complexity of the vent valve, and improves the durability of its functionality, thereby increasing user satisfaction.

[0066] It is understood that, provided that the technical feasibility is met, the above-mentioned technical features can be combined with one another for different embodiments to form other embodiments within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0067] In this application, the use of the disjunctive mood should include the subjunctive. The use of definite or indefinite articles should not indicate cardinality. In particular, a reference to "the" object or "a" object should also refer to one of several possible such objects. Furthermore, the conjunction "or" can be used to convey features that are present simultaneously, rather than mutually exclusive alternatives. In other words, the conjunction "or" should be understood as including "and / or." The terms "contains," "containing," and "include" are inclusive and have the same scope as "comprises," "comprising," and "encompassing," respectively.

[0068] The embodiments mentioned above are possible examples of implementations of the present disclosure and are included only to enable the person skilled in the art to clearly understand the principles of the invention. It is obvious to the person skilled in the art that the above discussion of each embodiment serves only for illustration and is not intended to imply that the disclosed scope of protection of the embodiments of the present disclosure (including the claims) is limited to these examples. Under the overall concept of the invention, the technical features of the aforementioned embodiments or other embodiments can be combined to produce many other modifications in various aspects of embodiments of the invention, which, for the sake of brevity, are not provided in the detailed description. Therefore, any omission, modification, equivalent substitution, improvement, etc., is not intended to be understood as a general description of the invention., which is carried out within the nature and principle of the embodiment of the invention, shall be included in the scope of protection claimed by the invention. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 20160036025

[0003]

Claims

[1] Venting valve comprising the following: a main body comprising a first end, a second end and a through-hole extending from the first end to the second end; a breathable membrane that is connected to the first end and covers the through-hole; a top cover that covers the breathable membrane; and a first opening and a second opening which are connected to each other, wherein the first opening and the second opening are offset from each other in an axial direction and / or a circumferential direction. [2] Vent valve according to claim 1, wherein the upper cover comprises a cover body and a first flange extending from the cover body to the main body, the first opening is positioned between the first flange and the main body, the upper cover further comprises a baffle device arranged radially inwards from the first opening and the second opening is positioned at one end of the baffle device next to the cover body. [3] Vent valve according to claim 1, wherein the upper cover comprises a cover body and a first flange extending from the cover body to the main body, the first opening being positioned between the first flange and the main body, the main body further comprising a second flange arranged radially inwards from the first opening and extending to the cover body, and the second opening being positioned between the second flange and the cover body. [4] Vent valve according to claim 1, wherein the upper cover comprises a cover body and a first flange extending from the cover body to the main body, the first opening is positioned between the first flange and the main body and extends around the circumference along a first segment of the upper cover, the upper cover further comprises a baffle device arranged radially inwards from the first opening, the second opening is positioned on the baffle device and extends around the circumference along a second segment of the upper cover, and the first segment and the second segment are offset from each other around the circumference. [5] Vent valve according to claim 1, wherein the upper cover comprises a cover body and a first flange extending from the cover body to the main body, the first opening being positioned between the first flange and the main body and extending around the circumference along a first segment of the upper cover, the main body further comprising a second flange arranged radially inward from the first opening and extending to the cover body, the second opening being positioned on the second flange and extending around the circumference along a second segment of the upper cover, and the first segment and the second segment being offset from each other around the circumference. [6] Venting valve according to claim 1, wherein the main body further comprises an engagement section extending outwards over the circumference between the first end and the second end and the engagement section comprises a first connection surface for connecting an airtightness testing device. [7] Vent valve according to claim 6, wherein the main body further includes the following: a support section that is positioned on a first side of the engagement section and configured to connect the breathable membrane, and a connecting section that is positioned on a second side of the engagement section; and the breathable membrane has the following features: a first state in which the breathable membrane is adapted to the support section and seals the through-hole; and a second state in which the breathable membrane with the through-hole is out of engagement. [8] Venting valve according to claim 7, wherein the support section further comprises a second fluid passage which connects the through-hole directly to the second opening in the second state. [9] Venting valve according to claim 8, wherein the support section comprises: a first support section that includes several holes; a second support section that surrounds the first support section and transitions smoothly to the outside; and a third support section that surrounds the second support section and includes the second fluid passage; wherein the breathable membrane in the first state adapts to the first support section and the second support section and is connected to the third support section; and wherein the breathable membrane in the second state is relatively spaced away from the first support section and the second support section, whereby the second fluid passage directly connects the through-hole with the second opening. [10] Venting valve according to claim 9, wherein the third support section is connected to the second support section via one or more spaced-apart suspension ribs. [11] Vent valve according to claim 6, wherein the engagement section has a radial dimension that is larger than a radial dimension of the upper cover. [12] Venting valve according to claim 11, wherein the first connection surface is oriented radially outwards. [13] Vent valve according to claim 11, wherein the first connection surface has a first groove and a first sealing ring is partially arranged in the first groove. [14] Vent valve according to claim 1, wherein the upper cover further comprises a first snap-fit ​​section and the first snap-fit ​​section can be engaged with a second snap-fit ​​section on the main body. [15] Venting valve according to claim 7, wherein the second side of the engagement section is provided with a second groove which surrounds and is spaced apart from the connecting section, and a second sealing ring is partially arranged in the second groove. [16] Venting valve according to claim 15, wherein the second sealing ring comprises several spaced-apart projecting ribs on it. [17] Venting valve according to claim 1, wherein the first end of the main body comprises a grid support frame for supporting the breathable membrane and the second end is connected to a protective plate comprising multiple holes. [18] Vent valve according to claim 1, wherein the upper cover comprises an outer projection configured to engage with a first tool and a third groove configured to engage with a second tool formed in the outer projection. [19] Venting valve comprising the following: a main body comprising the following: a first end; a second end; a through hole extending from the first end to the second end; and an engagement section positioned between the first end and the second end and extending outwards across the circumference, the engagement section comprising a first connection surface for connecting an airtightness testing device; a breathable membrane connected to the first end; and a top cover that covers the breathable membrane. [20] Vehicle battery pack comprising a vent valve according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

Images