REDUCTION OF THERMAL RUNOUT IN ELECTRIC MINING MACHINES

Abstract

A thermal management system comprising a housing that contains a battery pack, the housing including an inlet, a sensor configured to detect a property associated with the battery pack, and a control unit coupled to the sensor. The control unit is configured to receive a signal from the sensor indicating the property associated with the battery pack, determines, based on the property associated with the battery pack, that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met, and in response causes water to flow through the inlet into the housing.

Description

NOTICE REGARDING A RELATED REGISTRATION

[0001] This application enjoys priority over the also pending preliminary US patent application No. 63 / 434,364, which was filed on December 21, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated by this reference. AREA

[0002] The present disclosure relates to mining machines and in particular to the attenuation of thermal runaway in electric mining machines. BACKGROUND

[0003] An electric vehicle, such as an electric mining machine, can rely on one or more battery packs, each comprising one or more interconnected battery cells, to power various components and / or systems of the electric vehicle. During operation, the one or more battery packs are discharged to provide energy. The one or more battery packs can be recharged when the electric vehicle is not in use and / or during operation. SUMMARY

[0004] In an independent aspect, a thermal management system comprises an enclosure that houses a battery pack. The enclosure includes an inlet, a first sensor configured to detect a first property associated with the battery pack, and a control unit coupled to the first sensor. The control unit is configured to receive a first signal from the first sensor indicating the first property associated with the battery pack, determine, based on this first property, that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met, and in response, allow water to flow through the inlet into the enclosure.

[0005] In some aspects, the property associated with the battery pack includes at least one of a gas quantity inside the housing, a gas concentration inside the housing, an ambient temperature inside the housing, a temperature of the battery pack, a voltage of the battery pack, or a current output through the battery pack.

[0006] In some aspects, the control unit is also configured to disconnect the battery pack from a component of the thermal management system in response to the determination that the condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met.

[0007] In some cases, the sensor is a first sensor, the property is a first property connected to the battery pack, the signal is a first signal, and the system also includes a second sensor configured to detect a water level inside the housing.

[0008] In some aspects, the control unit is further configured to receive a second signal from the second sensor indicating a water level in the housing; based on the second signal, it determines that the water level in the housing exceeds a target water level; and in response, it causes the water flow into the housing to stop.

[0009] In some aspects, the control unit is further configured to receive a third signal from the second sensor indicating an updated water level in the housing; based on the third signal, it determines that the updated water level in the housing is lower than the target water level; and in response, it causes water to flow into the housing through the inlet.

[0010] In some aspects, the control unit is further configured to send a message indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event to an external device when it determines that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is met.

[0011] In some aspects, the system also includes a second sensor configured to detect a second property associated with the battery pack; and the control unit is also configured to receive a second signal from the second sensor indicating the second property associated with the battery pack.

[0012] In some aspects, the property associated with the battery pack is a gas concentration inside the housing, and the second property associated with the battery pack is an ambient temperature inside the housing.

[0013] In some aspects, in order to determine that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is met, the control unit is further configured to determine, based on the signal that the gas concentration inside the enclosure exceeds a first threshold, or, based on the second signal, to determine that the temperature inside the enclosure exceeds a second threshold.

[0014] In another independent aspect, a method for attenuating the thermal runaway event involves receiving a signal from a sensor indicating a property associated with a battery pack; determining, based on the property associated with the battery pack, that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is satisfied; and, in response, causing water to flow into a housing containing the battery pack.

[0015] In some aspects, the procedure further involves transmitting a message indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event to an external device in response to the determination that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event has been met.

[0016] In some aspects, the procedure further involves receiving a second signal from a second sensor indicating a water level inside the housing; determining, based on the second signal, that the water level inside the housing exceeds a target water level; and, as a reaction, stopping the flow of water into the housing.

[0017] In some aspects, the procedure further involves receiving a third signal from the second sensor indicating an updated water level inside the housing; determining, based on the third signal, that the updated water level inside the housing is lower than the target water level; and, in response, allowing the water to flow into the housing.

[0018] In some aspects, the determination that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is met involves determining based on the signal that a quantity of gas inside the enclosure exceeds a threshold.

[0019] In some aspects, determining whether the condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met involves determining based on the signal that a temperature inside the enclosure exceeds a threshold.

[0020] In another independent aspect, an electric vehicle comprises a variety of traction devices that assist the electric vehicle in its movement; a housing that accommodates a battery pack that powers one or more components contained within the electric vehicle; a first sensor configured to detect a first property associated with the battery pack; a second sensor configured to detect a second property associated with the battery pack; and a control unit coupled to the first sensor.The control unit is configured to receive a first signal from the first sensor indicating the first property associated with the battery pack; receive a second signal from the second sensor indicating the second property associated with the battery pack; determine, based on the first and / or second property associated with the battery pack, that a condition is met indicating a thermal runaway event; and in response, send a message to an external device indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event.

[0021] In some aspects, the control unit is also configured to allow water to flow into the housing in response to the determination that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is met.

[0022] In some aspects, the first property associated with the battery pack is a voltage associated with the battery pack, and the second property associated with the battery pack is a current associated with the battery pack.

[0023] In some aspects, the electric vehicle is a mining machine with an attachment for drilling holes in a mine surface.

[0024] Further aspects will become clear when examining the description in detail and the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1A shows a side view of an electric mining machine according to the aspects of the different embodiments. Fig. 1B shows a top view of the electric mining machine from Fig. 1A according to various embodiments. Fig. 2 is a block diagram of an energy storage system for the electric mining machine of Fig. 1A according to various embodiments. Fig. 3 is a block diagram of a control system for the electric mining machine of Fig. 1A according to various embodiments. Fig. 4 is a block diagram of a thermal management system for the electric mining machine of Fig. 1A according to various embodiments. Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart of process steps for mitigating thermal runaway in an electric vehicle according to various embodiments. Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart of process steps for mitigating thermal runaway in an electric vehicle according to other different embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Before the embodiments are explained in detail, it should be noted that their application is not limited to the specific configuration and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments can be implemented or carried out in various ways. The terms and expressions used herein are for descriptive purposes only and are not to be understood as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "featuring," and variations thereof, is intended to encompass the elements listed below and their equivalents, as well as additional elements. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled," and their variants, are used in the broadest sense and include both direct and indirect fastenings, connections, supports, and couplings.

[0026] Furthermore, it should be understood that embodiments may include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules, which, for discussion purposes, may be presented and described as if the majority of the components were implemented exclusively in hardware. However, those skilled in the art will recognize upon reading this description in detail that in at least one embodiment, the electronics-based aspects may be implemented in software (e.g., stored on a non-transient, computer-readable medium) that may be executed by one or more electronic processors, such as a microprocessor and / or application-specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”). It should therefore be noted that a variety of hardware- and software-based devices, as well as a variety of different structural components, may be used to implement the embodiments.For example, the “servers”, “computing devices”, “control units”, “processors”, etc. described in the description may include one or more electronic processors, one or more modules with computer-readable media, one or more input / output interfaces, and various connections (e.g., a system bus) that connect the components.

[0027] Relative terms such as "approximately," "about," "essentially," etc., used in connection with a quantity or condition, are understood by average professionals to include the stated value and to carry the meaning given by the context (e.g., the term includes at least the degree of error associated with measurement accuracy, the tolerances associated with the stated value [e.g., manufacturing, assembly, use, etc.], etc.). Such terminology should also be considered a disclosure of the range defined by the absolute values ​​of the two endpoints. The expression "from about 2 to about 4," for example, also indicates the range "from 2 to 4." Relative terminology may refer to plus or minus a percentage (e.g., 1%, 5%, 10%, or more) of a stated value.

[0028] Functions described here as being performed by a single component may be performed by multiple components in a distributed manner. Likewise, functions performed by multiple components may be consolidated and performed by a single component. Similarly, a component performing one functionality may also perform additional functionality not described here. For example, a device or structure that is "configured" in a certain way is at least configured in that way, but may also be configured in a way not explicitly stated.

[0029] Fig. Figure 1A shows a side view of an electric mining machine 100 according to the aspects of the different embodiments. Fig. 1B shows a top view of the electric mining machine from Fig. 1A according to various embodiments. In the example shown below, the Fig. 1A and Fig. In 1B, the electric mining machine 100 is an anchor setter or bolt setter. However, those skilled in the art will understand that an anchor setter or bolt setter is only one non-limiting example of an electric mining machine that could be used as the electric mining machine 100, and that in other examples a different type of electric mining machine could be used as the electric mining machine 100. For example, the electric mining machine 100 could be designed as a hard rock drill, as a load haul dump (LHD) machine, or as another type of electric mining machine. Furthermore, the disclosed systems and methods for mitigating thermal runaway, although described here in relation to the electric mining machine 100, could in some examples be used more generally for mitigating thermal runaway in electric vehicles that are not mining machines.Accordingly, in some examples the electric mining machine 100 is implemented as an electric vehicle that is not a mining machine.

[0030] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1A, the electric mining machine 100 includes a drive mechanism 105 (e.g., wheels), an energy storage system 110, and a boom 115. In the example shown, Fig. 1A and Fig. In 1B, the energy storage system 110 is mounted next to a rear end of the electric mining machine 100. In some examples, however, the energy storage system 110 is mounted on a different section of the electric mining machine 100 and / or located on a different section of the electric mining machine 100 (e.g., in the middle of the electric mining machine 100 or at the front end of the electric mining machine 100). As described in more detail herein, the energy storage system 110 includes one or more battery packs that supply operating energy to various systems and components of the electric mining machine 100.

[0031] The boom 115 carries a drilling and anchoring system or a drilling device 120 to create holes in a mine surface (e.g., a ceiling, floor, rib, or side wall – not shown) and / or to install a drilling element (e.g., a chisel or an anchor). In the example shown, Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B uses the drilling device 120 to perform both drilling and anchoring operations. The drilling device 120 can be moved relative to the boom 115 by a linear drive 125. For example, the linear drive 125 positions and / or indexes the drilling device 120 from one anchoring position to another.

[0032] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 1A, the electric mining machine 100 can be detachably connected to a water supply 130 via a hose or similar water pipe 135. In the example shown, Fig. In 1A, the hose 135 is stored on a reel system 140, so that the hose 135 can be unwound from the reel system 140 to connect the electric mining machine 100 to the water supply 130, and can be wound around the reel system 140 when not in use. In the example shown by Fig. 1A and Fig. In Figure 1B, the water supply 130 is located outside the electric mining machine 100. Some non-restrictive examples of external water supplies that can be used to implement the water supply 130 include a water tank, a water reservoir, or a water supply line. In some examples not shown, the water supply 130 is an internal water supply, such as a tank carried by and / or located within the electric mining machine 100. In some examples, the electric mining machine 100 includes an internal water supply and may also be detachably coupled to an external water supply 130. As described in more detail herein, water from the water supply 130 can be used to cool the energy storage system 110 during a thermal runaway event.

[0033] Fig. Figure 2 is a block diagram of the energy storage system 110 for the electric mining machine 100. Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B according to various embodiments. As shown, the energy storage system 110 includes a plurality of battery packs 200 which are housed or arranged in a battery casing 205. In the example shown of Fig. In Figure 2, the energy storage system 110 includes four battery packs 200. However, experts will understand that in other examples, the energy storage system 110 may include fewer or more than four battery packs 200. For example, the energy storage system 110 may include one battery pack, two battery packs, eight battery packs, twelve battery packs, or any other number of battery packs. In some non-restrictive examples, the capacity of the energy storage system 110 may be between approximately 70 kWh and approximately 200 kWh. In other non-restrictive examples, the capacity of the energy storage system 110 may be greater than 200 kWh.

[0034] Each battery pack 200 in the energy storage system 110 comprises a housing that surrounds or encloses a plurality of battery cells 210 connected in series and / or parallel. In this respect, the output voltage of each battery pack 200 is equal to the combined voltage of the connected battery cells 210 contained in that battery pack 200. In some non-restrictive examples, the output voltage of each battery pack 200 can range from approximately 220 V to approximately 880 V. In one particular non-restrictive example, the output voltage of each battery pack 200 is 660 V. In the example in Fig. In the example shown, each battery pack 200 contains a multitude of battery cells 210. Experts will understand that the in Fig. The number of battery cells 210 shown is a non-limiting example, and in other examples a battery pack 200 may contain fewer or more than the number of battery cells 210 shown. In some examples, the battery cells 210 have a lithium-ion chemistry. A non-limiting example of a lithium-ion chemistry is lithium iron phosphate. In other examples, the battery cells 210 may have a different chemistry, such as a nickel-metal hydride chemistry, a lead-acid chemistry, a nickel-cadmium chemistry, or another chemistry.

[0035] Similar to the battery cells 210, the battery packs 200 can be selectively connected in series and / or parallel to one another. For example, a battery pack 200 can be selectively connected to one or more other battery packs 200 via one or more switches. In this context, the output voltage of the energy storage system 110 can correspond to a combined voltage supplied by one or more of the connected battery packs 200. In some examples, the energy storage system 110 supplies a voltage at a first voltage level to some components of the electric mining machine 100, such as motors or hydraulic components, and supplies a voltage at one or more other voltage levels to one or more other components (e.g., pumps, fans, lighting, etc.) of the electric mining machine 100.

[0036] Back to Fig. 2: The energy storage system 110 also includes a battery management system (BMS) 215 and charging circuits (not shown) connected to each of the battery packs 200. During operation, the BMS 215 monitors various properties of the battery packs 200. For example, the BMS 215 includes and / or is coupled to voltage sensors that detect the voltage levels of the battery packs 200 and / or the voltage levels of the individual battery cells 210 contained within the battery packs 200. In some examples, the BMS 215 also includes and / or is coupled to temperature sensors that detect the temperatures of the battery packs 200 and / or the temperatures of the battery cells 210 contained within the battery packs 210. In some examples, the BMS includes 215 and / or is coupled with current sensors that detect the current output of one or more battery packs 200, one or more battery cells 210 and / or the energy storage system 110.

[0037] The BMS 215 can also control functions such as charging the battery packs 200 and connecting and / or disconnecting the battery packs 200 from each other via switches. As described in more detail here, the BMS 215 can be coupled with a central control unit, such as a vehicle control unit, of the electric mining machine 100 to exchange information related to the battery packs 200. In some examples, one or more of the functions described here, which are performed by the BMS 215, can alternatively be performed by the central control unit of the mining machine 100. The charging circuit included in the energy storage system 110 comprises one or more voltage converters to convert the input power into a voltage level used to charge the battery packs 200. In the Fig. In the example shown, the BMS 215 is located outside the battery housing 205. In some examples, however, the BMS 215 is located partially or completely inside the battery housing 205.

[0038] The battery packs 200 are housed in a battery casing 205, which protects the battery packs 200 from the environment of the electric mining machine 100. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the battery housing 205 includes an outer enclosure 220, which defines an interior space in which the battery packs 200 are arranged. The outer enclosure 220 of the battery housing can be made of, for example, one or more materials such as steel, aluminum, fiberglass, plastic, or another durable material. In some examples, the battery housing 205 is an IP67-rated enclosure, configured to protect the battery packs 200 from dust, water, and other environmental conditions. In the example shown, Fig. 2 The outer casing 220 of the battery housing 205 also includes a sealed bulkhead plate 225 and / or is coupled to it. The sealed bulkhead plate 225 can be used to secure the battery packs 200 inside the battery housing 205 and includes one or more airtight connection points that allow an electrical connection of the battery packs 200 to other components of the electric mining machine 100.

[0039] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 2, the battery housing 205 includes a plurality of vent openings 230 arranged on and / or attached to the outer casing 220. In some embodiments, the vent openings 230 may be located on or near an upper section of the outer casing 220 to allow gases and vapor to escape from the battery housing 205 through the outer casing 220, while liquids and solids remain inside the battery housing 205. In some examples, the vent openings 230 are designed to restrict or prevent liquid escape but allow gas escape. A non-restrictive example of a vent opening that restricts or prevents liquid escape while allowing gas escape is a GORE vent. In the one shown in Fig. In the example shown, three ventilation openings 230 are arranged on the upper section of the outer casing 220. However, experts will understand that the number and position of the Fig. The number of ventilation openings 230 shown is not limited, and in other examples, fewer or more than three ventilation openings 230 may be arranged in the battery housing 205. The ventilation openings may also be arranged in another section of the outer housing 220.

[0040] The battery housing 205 further includes a water inlet 235 and a drain 240, which are located on or near a lower section (e.g., a base) of the outer housing 220. As described in more detail herein, water and / or other liquids can be pumped or otherwise introduced into the interior of the battery housing 205 via the water inlet 235. For example, one or more pumps and / or valves can be used to allow water to flow from a water supply into the battery housing 205. Similarly, the drain 240 can be used to drain and / or remove accumulated condensation, water, and / or other liquids from the battery housing 205. For example, one or more pumps and / or valves can be used to remove water from the battery housing 205 via the drain 240. Although described in more detail herein Fig. Since only one water inlet 235 and one outlet 240 are shown in the example 2, experts will understand that in other examples the battery housing 205 may contain more than one water inlet 235 and / or more than one outlet 240.

[0041] Fig. Figure 3 is a block diagram of a control system 300 for the electric mining machine 100. Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B according to various embodiments. As shown, the control system 300 includes a central control unit or vehicle control unit (VCU) 305, which controls the operation of various components and / or systems of the electric mining machine 100. The VCU 305 includes a processor 310 (e.g., a microprocessor, a microcontroller, or another suitable programmable device), a memory 315, and an input / output (“I / O”) system 320, which are interconnected via a bus.

[0042] The I / O system 320 includes routines for transferring information between components within the VCU 305 and other components of the electric mining machine 100. In some examples, the I / O system 320 also includes a communication interface configured to enable communication between the electric mining machine 100 and one or more external communication devices 380 (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc.). In some examples, the communication interface includes the I / O system 320 and allows the VCU 305 to communicate with communication devices 380 connected to operators of the electric mining machine 100 and / or workers in the vicinity of the electric mining machine 100. In such examples, the VCU 305 communicates with the one or more communication devices 380 via a network.The network in question could be, for example, a wide area network (WAN) (e.g., the Internet, a TCP / IP-based network, a cellular network such as a Global System for Mobile Communications [GSM] network, a General Packet Radio Services [GPRS] network, a Code Division Multiple Access [CDMA] network, an Evolution Data Optimized [EV-DO] network, an EDGE network (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution), a 3GSM network, a 4GSM network, a DECT network (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications), an IS-136 / TDMA network (Digital AMPS), or an iDEN network (Integrated Digital Enhanced Network), etc.). Other examples include a local area network (LAN), a neighborhood area network (NAN), a home network (HAN), or a personal area network (PAN), which uses a variety of communication protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, etc.In some examples, the network includes one or more wide area networks (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a neighborhood area network (NAN), a home area network (HAN), or a personal area network (PAN).

[0043] Memory 315 includes, for example, read-only memory (“ROM”), random-access memory (“RAM”), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory, a hard disk, an SD card, or another suitable magnetic, optical, physical, or electronic storage device. Memory 315 stores, but is not limited to, software such as firmware, one or more applications, program data, one or more program modules, and / or other executable instructions for controlling the operation of one or more components and systems of the electric mining machine 100. During operation, the processor 310 retrieves and executes software instructions from memory 315 for controlling the operation of one or more components and systems of the electric mining machine 100.For example, during operation, processor 310 retrieves and executes software instructions from memory 315, which are related, among other things, to the processes and procedures described herein for detecting and mitigating thermal runaway. Hereinafter, functions and / or actions performed by components of the VCU 305 (e.g., processor 310, memory 315, and I / O system 320) can be collectively referred to as being performed by the VCU 305.

[0044] Back to Fig. 3: The control system 300 for the electric mining machine 100 includes various components and / or systems that are connected to and controlled by the VCU 305. For example, the VCU 305 is connected to the energy storage system 110 and the BMS 215. As described above, the BMS 215 includes and / or is connected to various sensors that detect voltages, temperatures, current output, and / or other properties of the battery packs 200 and / or individual battery cells 210 contained in the energy storage system 110. During operation, the BMS 215 can transmit signals to the VCU 305 containing information relating to properties (e.g.,Based on the properties associated with the battery packs 200 and / or battery cells 210 (e.g., voltages, temperatures, and / or current outputs), the VCU 305 can control the charging and / or discharging of the battery packs 200, control the power supply from the energy storage system 110 to one or more components of the electric mining machine 100, and / or control the operation of one or more other components contained in the electric mining machine 100. In some examples, the VCU 305 is directly coupled to one or more of the sensors that detect properties associated with the battery packs 200 and / or battery cells 210 contained in the energy storage system 110. In such examples, the VCU 305 can receive signals containing information relating to properties (e.g., voltages, temperatures, and / or current outputs) that are connected to the battery packs 200 and / or the battery cells 210.voltages, temperatures and / or current outputs) indicate that are directly connected to the battery packs 200 and / or battery cells 210 by the sensors that detect properties associated with the battery packs 200 and / or battery cells 210.

[0045] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 3, the VCU 305 is connected to the drilling device 120, the linear actuator 125, a user interface 325, one or more sensors 330, one or more fans 335, one or more pumps and / or valves 340, one or more hydraulic cylinders 345, a motor control unit (MCU) 350, one or more contactors and rectifiers 355, and an auxiliary power supply 360. The VCU 305 can control the operation of the drilling device 120. The VCU 305 can also control the operation of the linear actuator 125 to effect the movement of the drilling device 120.

[0046] The user interface 325 is configured to receive input from an operator of the electric mining machine 100 and / or output information to the operator of the electric mining machine 100. In some examples, the user interface 325 includes a display (e.g., a primary display, a secondary display, etc.) and / or input devices (e.g., touchscreen displays, a variety of knobs, dials, switches, buttons, levers, joysticks, etc.). The display may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (“LCD”), a light-emitting diode display (“LED”), an organic LED display (“OLED”), an electroluminescent display (“ELD”), a surface conduction electron emitter display (“SED”), a field emission display (“FED”), a thin-film transistor LCD display (“TFT”), etc. In some examples, the user interface 325 includes one or more audible indicators (e.g., speakers, horns, buzzers, etc.).) and / or optical displays such as LEDs.

[0047] The one or more sensors 330 are configured to detect various properties associated with components and / or systems of the electric mining machine 100. For example, the one or more sensors 330 can, without limitation, include voltage sensors that detect various voltages within the electric mining machine 100, current sensors that detect various currents flowing through the electric mining machine 100, temperature sensors that detect various temperatures within the electric mining machine 100, gas sensors, water level sensors, rotation sensors, position sensors, torque sensors, pressure sensors, and / or other types of sensors that detect properties associated with components and systems of the electric mining machine 100.In operation, the VCU 305 controls the operation of one or more components of the electric mining machine 100 based on the signals received from the one or more sensors 330.

[0048] The VCU 305 can control the operation of one or more fans 335 to push cooling air over components of the electric mining machine 100, such as the energy storage system 110. Furthermore, the VCU 305 can control the operation of one or more pumps and / or valves 340 to regulate the flow of cooling water into and out of the battery housing 205. For example, the VCU 305 can selectively activate a pump 340 and / or open a valve 340 to allow cooling water from the water supply 365 to flow into the battery housing 205. Another example is that the VCU 305 can activate a pump 340 and / or open a valve 340 to remove water from the battery housing 205 via the drain 240.

[0049] Furthermore, during operation, the VCU 305 can control the operation of one or more hydraulic cylinders 345 to move the boom 115 and / or communicate with the MCU 350 to control the wheel motors 370 that drive the drive mechanism 105 (e.g., the wheels) of the electric mining machine 100. In such examples, the VCU 305 can control the flow of current from the energy storage system 110 to the hydraulic cylinders 345 to move the boom 115 and / or to the drive motors 370 to drive the drive mechanism 105 (e.g., the wheels) of the electric mining machine 100.

[0050] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 3, the VCU 305 is coupled to an auxiliary power supply 360 and, via one or more contactors and rectifiers 355, to an AC power supply 375. In some examples, the auxiliary power supply 360 is a low-voltage DC power supply (e.g., 24 V, 12 V, etc.) that provides operating current to the VCU 305 and / or other low-voltage components of the electrical mining machine 100. The auxiliary power supply 360 may, for example, include one or more battery packs used to power the VCU 305 during a thermal runaway event.

[0051] The AC power supply 375 is located outside the electric mining machine 100 and provides high-voltage alternating current (e.g., 220 V, 480 V, 1000 V, etc.) used to charge the battery packs 200 and / or to operate high-voltage components (e.g., drive motors 370 or hydraulic cylinders 345) of the electric mining machine 100. As shown, the VCU 305 is coupled to one or more contactors and / or rectifiers 355 and can control them to regulate the AC current flow from the AC power supply 375. For example, the VCU 305 can disconnect the electric mining machine 100 from the AC power supply 375 by disconnecting the contactors 355 from the AC power supply 375. As another example, the VCU 305 can control the rectifiers 355 to convert the high-voltage alternating current supplied by the AC power supply 375 into direct current in order to charge the battery packs 200 contained in the energy storage system 110.In some examples, the AC power supply 375 is the grid. In other examples, the AC power supply 375 is a generator.

[0052] During operation of an electric vehicle, the battery packs and / or one or more individual battery cells within the battery packs powering the electric vehicle may experience thermal runaway. For example, the battery packs 200 contained in the energy storage system 110 and / or one or more of the battery cells 210 contained within the battery packs 200 may experience thermal runaway during operation of the electric mining machine 100. A battery pack and / or one or more battery cells contained within a battery pack may experience thermal runaway as a result of rapid charging / discharging of the battery pack, short circuits, overcharging of the battery cells above a maximum voltage level, manufacturing defects, and / or other conditions that lead to an increase in the temperature of the battery cells.During a thermal walkover, chemical reactions within a battery cell cause the cell to heat up and release gases at a higher rate and / or in higher concentrations than during normal operation. If a thermal walkover goes undetected and / or untreated, the affected battery packs and / or individual cells can catch fire and / or explode, causing significant damage to the electric vehicle and posing a serious safety hazard to people nearby.

[0053] Fig. Figure 4 is a block diagram of a thermal management system for the electric mining machine 100. Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B, according to various embodiments. As described in more detail herein, the thermal management system 400 can detect and mitigate the occurrence of a thermal runaway event caused by the battery packs 200 contained in the energy storage system 110 of the electric mining machine and / or one or more individual battery cells 210 contained in the battery packs 200 contained in the energy storage system 110 of the electric mining machine 100. Hereinafter, thermal runaway events caused by the battery packs 200 and / or one or more individual battery cells 210 in the battery packs 200 in the energy storage system 110 of the electric mining machine 100 may simply be referred to as a thermal runaway event associated with one or more battery packs 200.

[0054] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the thermal management system comprises 400 different components, which are described here in relation to the Fig. 1A-3 are described, and / or is coupled with them. For example, the thermal management system 400 includes the BMS 215, the VCU 305, one or more pumps and valves 340, one or more gas sensors 405, one or more temperature sensors 410, and one or more water level sensors 415. In some examples, the thermal management system 400 also includes the user interface 325 and / or one or more communication devices 380 and / or is coupled with them. During operation, the VCU 305 detects the occurrence of a thermal runaway event in conjunction with one or more battery packs 200 based on signals received from the BMS 215, the one or more gas sensors 405, and the one or more temperature sensors 410.As described in more detail herein, the VCU 305 determines, for example, whether a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event in connection with one or more battery packs 200 is satisfied on the basis of characteristics associated with the one or more battery packs 200, which are detected and contained in the signals received by the BMS 215, the one or more gas sensors 405 and the one or more temperature sensors 410.

[0055] As described above, the BMS 215 incorporates and / or is coupled to various sensors that detect voltages, temperatures, current outputs, and / or other properties associated with the battery packs 200 and / or individual battery cells 210 in the energy storage system 110. During operation, the BMS 215 can transmit signals to the VCU 305 containing information about properties (e.g., voltages, temperatures, and / or current outputs) associated with the battery packs 200 and / or battery cells 210. Based on the information about the properties associated with the battery packs 200 and / or battery cells 210 contained in the signals received by the BMS 215, the VCU 305 can determine whether a condition is met that indicates the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200.In some examples, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event in connection with a battery pack 200 is met if the temperature of a battery pack 200 and / or battery cells 210 exceeds a temperature threshold (e.g., 120 degrees Celsius as a non-restrictive example) associated with a thermal runaway of a battery pack 200, if the voltage of a battery pack 200 exceeds a voltage threshold (e.g., the maximum voltage of the battery pack 200) associated with a thermal runaway of a battery pack 200, and / or if a single battery cell 210 exceeds a voltage threshold (e.g., 4.5V as a non-restrictive example) associated with a thermal runaway of a battery pack 200.In some examples, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event in connection with a battery pack 200 is met when the current output of a battery pack 200 and / or battery cells 210 exceeds a current threshold associated with the thermal runaway of a battery pack 200.

[0056] Before and / or during the thermal runaway of a battery pack 200, the battery cells 210 in the battery pack 200 heat up and release gases such as hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and / or various hydrocarbons, but not limited to these. Accordingly, one or more gas sensors 405, configured to detect quantities and / or concentrations of gases associated with the thermal runaway of a battery pack 200, are located near and / or inside the battery housing 205. During operation, a gas sensor 405 detects a quantity and / or gas concentration (e.g., hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and / or one or more other hydrocarbons) inside the battery housing 205 and transmits signals indicating the quantity and / or gas concentration inside the battery housing 205 to the VCU 305.The VCU 305 then determines, based on the quantity and / or gas concentration within the battery housing 205, whether a condition indicating a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200 is met. For example, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200 is met if the quantity and / or gas concentration within the battery housing 205 exceeds a gas threshold associated with the thermal runaway of a battery pack 200. The gas threshold may depend on the chemistry of the battery cells 210 and / or the size of the battery pack 200.

[0057] In some examples, the thermal management system 400 includes a corresponding gas sensor 405 for each type of gas released during the thermal runaway of a battery pack 200. For example, if a battery pack 200 releases a first gas (e.g., hydrogen) and a second gas (e.g., carbon monoxide) during thermal runaway, the thermal management system 400 may include a first gas sensor 405 that detects a quantity and / or concentration of the first gas inside the battery housing 205, and a second gas sensor 405 that detects a quantity and / or concentration of the second gas inside the battery housing 205.In some examples, a single gas sensor 405, which is included in the thermal management system 400, can be configured to detect the quantity and / or concentration of a single gas inside the battery housing 205, or to detect the respective quantities and / or concentrations of several gases inside the battery housing 205.

[0058] Before and / or during the thermal runaway of a battery pack 200, the battery cells 210 in the battery pack 200 generate and dissipate heat. Accordingly, one or more temperature sensors 410, configured to detect the ambient temperature inside the battery housing 205 and / or the temperature of the outer casing 220 of the battery housing 205, are located on, near, and / or inside the battery housing 205. Although the BMS 215 includes and / or is coupled with temperature sensors that detect the respective temperatures of the battery packs 200 and / or the battery cells 210, in some examples, the one or more temperature sensors 410 may also be configured to detect the respective temperatures of the battery packs 200 and / or the battery cells 210. During operation, a temperature sensor 410 detects a temperature associated with a battery pack 210 (e.g.,(an ambient temperature inside the battery housing 205, a temperature of the outer casing 220 of the battery housing 205, a temperature of a battery pack 200 and / or a temperature of a battery cell 210) and transmits signals indicating the temperature associated with the battery pack 200 to the VCU 305. The VCU 305 then determines whether a condition indicating a thermal runaway event associated with the battery pack 200 is met, based on the measured temperature of the battery pack 200. For example, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event associated with battery pack 200 is satisfied when the temperature associated with battery pack 200 exceeds a temperature threshold (e.g., 150 degrees Celsius as a non-limiting example) that is associated with the thermal runaway of a battery pack 200.

[0059] As described herein, the VCU 305 can determine whether various conditions indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200 are met based on properties associated with the battery pack 200 that are detected and / or received by the BMS 215, the gas sensors 405, and / or the temperature sensors 410. In some examples, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with the battery pack 200 is met if at least one temperature associated with the battery pack 200 (e.g., an ambient temperature inside the battery housing 205, a temperature of the outer casing 220 of the battery housing 205, a temperature of a battery pack 200, and / or a temperature of a battery cell 210) exceeds a threshold, or if a quantity and / or gas concentration (e.g.,Hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and / or one or more different other hydrocarbons) within the battery housing 205 exceeds a threshold, a voltage associated with the battery pack 200 exceeds a threshold, or a current delivered by the battery pack 200 exceeds a threshold. In some examples, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200 is met if at least two of the following occur: a temperature associated with the battery pack 200 (e.g., an ambient temperature within the battery housing 205, a temperature of the outer casing 220 of the battery housing 205, a temperature of a battery pack 200 and / or a temperature of a battery cell 210) exceeds a threshold, or a quantity and / or gas concentration (e.g.,Hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and / or one or more different other hydrocarbons) within the battery housing 205 exceeds a threshold, a voltage associated with the battery pack 200 exceeds a threshold, or a current delivered by the battery pack 200 exceeds a threshold. In some examples, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200 is met if at least three of the following occur: a temperature associated with the battery pack 200 (e.g., an ambient temperature within the battery housing 205, a temperature of the outer casing 220 of the battery housing 205, a temperature of a battery pack 200 and / or a temperature of a battery cell 210) exceeds a threshold; a quantity and / or gas concentration (e.g.,hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and / or one or more different other hydrocarbons) within the battery housing 205 exceeds a threshold, a voltage connected to the battery pack 200 exceeds a threshold, or a current delivered by the battery pack 200 exceeds a threshold.

[0060] In response to the determination that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a Battery Pack 200 has been met, the VCU 305 performs one or more response actions to mitigate the damage caused by the thermal runaway event associated with the Battery Pack 200 and / or the safety risk attributed to that event.

[0061] In some examples, in response to the determination that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal walkover event associated with a battery pack 200 has been met, the VCU 305 sends a warning message to one or more communication devices 380 connected to operators of the electric mining machine 100 and / or persons working on a construction site near the electric mining machine 100. The warning message may, for example, indicate that a thermal walkover event has occurred and instruct the persons to evacuate the area near the electric mining machine 100.In some examples, the VCU 305, in response to the determination that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200 has been met, activates a display contained in the user interface 325 to show a notification of the occurrence of a thermal runaway event. In some examples, the VCU 305, in response to the determination that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200 has been met, activates an audible signal contained in the user interface 325.

[0062] In some examples, in response to the detection of a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200, the VCU 305 disconnects components in the electric mining machine 100 from high-voltage power supplies contained in and / or connected to the electric mining machine 100. For example, the VCU 305 disconnects the VCU 305 and / or other components of the electric mining machine 100 from the energy storage system 110. As another example, the VCU 305 opens the contactors 355 to disconnect the electric mining machine 100 from the AC power supply 375. Furthermore, in some examples, in response to the detection of a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200, the VCU 305 is connected to and powered by the auxiliary power supply 360.

[0063] In some examples, the VCU 305 causes cooling water from the water supply 365 to flow into the battery housing 205 to mitigate damage to the electric mining machine 100, in response to the determination that a condition indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200 has been met. For example, the VCU 305 activates a pump 340 and / or opens a valve 340 so that water from the water supply 365 flows through the water inlet 235 into the battery housing 205. As water flows into the battery housing 205, the water level in the battery housing 205 rises, causing the water to come into contact with and surround one or more battery packs 200. As described herein, each battery pack 200 includes a housing that surrounds the battery cells 210 contained within the battery pack 200. In this respect, the water comes into contact with the respective housings of the 200 battery packs.In some examples, the VCU 305 ensures that water from the water supply 365 flows into the battery housing 205 until the water level inside the battery housing 205 exceeds a target water level.

[0064] In the in the Fig. 2 and Fig. In the four illustrated examples, the battery housing 205 includes a single water inlet 235 located at or near the bottom of the battery housing 205. However, in some examples, the battery housing 205 includes one or more additional water inlets located at or near the top of the battery housing 205. In such examples, during a thermal runaway event in conjunction with a battery pack 200, the VCU 305 causes water to flow into the battery housing 205 in a first stream through the water inlet 235 located at or near the bottom of the battery housing 205, and in a second stream through the additional water inlets located at or near the top of the battery housing 205.In some examples, the first water flow entering the battery housing 205 through the water inlet 235, located at or near the bottom of the battery housing 205, is larger than the second water flow entering the battery housing 205 through the additional water inlets located at or near the top of the battery housing 205. In some examples, the second water flow entering the battery housing 205 through the water inlets located at or near the top of the battery housing 205 is introduced as mist falling over the battery packs 200.

[0065] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the thermal management system 400 includes one or more water level sensors 415 configured to detect the water level in the battery housing 205. During operation, the water level sensor(s) 415 detect a water level inside the battery housing 205 and send signals indicating the water level inside the battery housing 205 to the VCU 305. In some examples, the VCU 305 can control whether water flows into the battery housing 205 based on the detected water level. For example, the VCU 305 can shut off a pump 340 and / or close a valve 340 to prevent water from flowing into the battery housing 205 via the water inlet 235 if the detected water level in the battery housing 205 exceeds a target water level.As another example, the VCU 305 can activate a pump 340 and / or open a valve 340 to cause water to flow into the battery housing 205 via the water inlet 235 when the detected water level inside the battery housing 205 is lower than a target water level. In some examples, the VCU 305 activates a pump 340 and / or opens a valve 340 to drain water from the battery housing 205 via the drain 240 when the detected water level inside the battery housing 205 exceeds a target water level.

[0066] After water has flowed into the battery housing 205 and filled it to the target water level threshold during a thermal runaway event in conjunction with a battery pack 200, the heat generated and dissipated by the battery pack 200 during the thermal runaway event heats the water and causes it to evaporate. The evaporated water exits the battery housing 205 as vapor through one or more vent openings 230, thereby dissipating thermal energy from the battery housing 205 and cooling the energy storage system 110. Furthermore, the evaporation of water in the battery housing causes the water level in the battery housing 205 to decrease. For example, during a thermal runaway event, enough water may evaporate and exit the battery housing 205 as vapor through the vent openings 230 to lower the water level in the battery housing 205 below the target water level.Accordingly, in such an example, when one or more water level sensors 415 detect the water level inside the battery housing 205 and send corresponding signals to the VCU 305, the VCU 305 determines that the water level inside the battery housing 205 has fallen below the target water level, based on the signals received from the one or more water level sensors 415. In response to the determination that the water level inside the battery housing 205 has fallen below the target water level during a thermal runaway event associated with a battery pack 200, the VCU 305 can activate a pump 340 and / or open a valve 340 to cause more water to flow from the water supply 365 into the battery housing 205 via the water inlet 235.

[0067] Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart of process steps for mitigating the thermal runaway event in an electric vehicle, such as the electric mining machine 100, according to various embodiments. Although the process steps are related to the systems of Fig. As described in 1A-4, experts will understand that any system configured to carry out the process steps in any order falls within the scope of this disclosure.

[0068] As shown, a procedure 500 begins with step 505, in which a control unit receives an initial signal from a first sensor indicating an initial property of a battery pack. For example, the VCU 305 receives a signal from a gas sensor 405 indicating a quantity and / or gas concentration (e.g., hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and / or one or more other hydrocarbons) inside the battery housing 205. As another example, the VCU 305 receives a signal indicating a temperature associated with the battery pack 200 (e.g., an ambient temperature inside the battery housing 205, a temperature of the outer casing 220 of the battery housing 205, a temperature of a battery pack 200, and / or a temperature of a battery cell 210) from a temperature sensor 410 or a temperature sensor that is included in and / or coupled to the BMS 215.As another example, the VCU 305 receives a signal indicating a voltage and / or current connected to the battery pack 200 from a sensor contained in and / or coupled to the BMS 215.

[0069] In step 510, the control unit determines whether a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met, based on the first property associated with the battery pack obtained in step 505. For example, the VCU 305 determines whether a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met based on the quantity and / or gas concentration within the battery housing 205. In this example, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met if the quantity and / or gas concentration exceeds a gas threshold. In another example, the VCU 305 determines whether a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met based on the temperature associated with the battery pack 200.In this example, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met when the temperature associated with battery pack 200 exceeds a temperature threshold. In another example, the VCU 305 determines whether a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met based on the voltage and / or current associated with battery pack 200. In this example, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met when the voltage associated with battery pack 200 exceeds a voltage threshold and / or the current associated with battery pack 200 exceeds a current threshold.

[0070] If the control unit in step 510 determines that the condition indicating a thermal runaway event is not met, procedure 500 returns to step 505. For example, if VCU 305 determines that the quantity and / or gas concentration inside battery housing 205 is less than the gas threshold, the procedure returns to step 505. Another example: If VCU 305 determines that the temperature associated with battery pack 200 is below the temperature threshold, the procedure returns to step 505. Another example: If VCU 305 determines that the voltage associated with battery pack 200 does not exceed the voltage threshold and / or the current associated with battery pack 200 is less than the current threshold, the procedure returns to step 505.

[0071] If the control unit determines in step 510 that the condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met, procedure 500 proceeds to step 515. For example, if VCU 305 determines that the quantity and / or gas concentration inside battery housing 205 exceeds the gas threshold, the procedure proceeds to step 515. Another example: If VCU 305 determines that the temperature associated with battery pack 200 exceeds the temperature threshold, the procedure proceeds to step 515. Another example: If VCU 305 determines that the voltage associated with battery pack 200 exceeds the voltage threshold and / or the current associated with battery pack 200 exceeds the current threshold, the procedure proceeds to step 515.

[0072] In step 515, the control unit causes water to flow through an inlet into the housing containing the battery pack. For example, the VCU activates a pump 340 and / or opens a valve 340 to allow water to flow through the water inlet 235 into the battery housing 205. In some examples, the control unit continues to cause water to flow into the housing containing the battery pack as long as the condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met and stops water from flowing into the housing containing the battery pack when the condition indicating a thermal runaway event is no longer met.

[0073] Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart of process steps for mitigating thermal runaway in an electric vehicle, such as the electric mining machine 100, according to other different embodiments. Although the process steps are related to the systems of Fig. As described in sections 1A to 4, experts understand that any system configured to carry out the process steps in any order falls within the scope of this disclosure.

[0074] As shown, a procedure 600 begins with step 605, in which a control unit receives a first signal from a first sensor indicating a first property associated with a battery pack. For example, the VCU 305 receives a signal from a gas sensor 405 indicating a quantity and / or gas concentration (e.g., hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and / or one or more different other hydrocarbons) inside the battery housing 205.

[0075] In step 610, the control unit receives a second signal from a second sensor indicating a second property of the battery pack. For example, the VCU 305 receives a signal indicating a temperature associated with the battery pack 200 (e.g., an ambient temperature inside the battery housing 205, a temperature of the outer casing 220 of the battery housing 205, a temperature of a battery pack 200, and / or a temperature of a battery cell 210) from a temperature sensor 410 or a temperature sensor that is included in and / or coupled to the BMS 215.

[0076] In step 615, the control unit determines whether a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met, based on at least one of the first properties associated with the battery pack received in step 605, or the second property associated with the battery pack received in step 610. For example, the VCU 305 determines whether a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met based on at least the quantity and / or gas concentration within the battery housing 205 or the temperature associated with the battery pack 200. In this example, the VCU 305 determines that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met if at least the quantity and / or gas concentration exceeds a gas threshold and / or the temperature associated with the battery pack 200 exceeds a temperature threshold.

[0077] If the control unit determines in step 615 that the condition indicating a thermal runaway event is not met, procedure 600 returns to step 605. For example, if VCU 305 determines that the quantity and / or gas concentration inside battery housing 205 is below the gas threshold and the temperature associated with battery pack 200 is below the temperature threshold, the procedure returns to step 605.

[0078] If the control unit determines in step 615 that the condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met, procedure 600 continues with step 620. For example, if the VCU 305 determines that at least the quantity and / or gas concentration exceeds the gas threshold and / or the temperature associated with battery pack 200 exceeds the temperature threshold, the procedure continues with step 620.

[0079] In step 620, the control unit transmits a message indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway to an external device. For example, the VCU 305 transmits a message indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event via the communication interface contained in the I / O system 320 to an external communication device 380, which is connected to the operator of the electric mining machine 100.

[0080] In step 625, the control unit causes water to flow through an inlet into the housing containing the battery pack. For example, the VCU activates a pump 340 and / or opens a valve 340 so that water flows through the water inlet 235 into the battery housing 205.

[0081] In step 630, the control unit receives a third signal from a third sensor, indicating the water level in the housing containing the battery pack. For example, the VCU 305 receives a signal indicating the water level in battery housing 205 from a water level sensor 415.

[0082] In step 635, the control unit determines whether the water level in the housing exceeds a target water level. For example, the VCU 305 determines whether the water level in the battery housing 205 exceeds a target water level. If the control unit determines in step 635 that the water level in the housing does not exceed the target water level, the procedure returns to step 630. If the control unit determines in step 635 that the water level in the housing exceeds the target water level, the procedure continues with step 640.

[0083] In step 640, the control unit prevents water from flowing into the housing containing the battery pack. For example, the VCU 305 switches off the pump 340 and / or closes the valve 340 to prevent water from flowing into the battery housing 205.

[0084] In step 645, the control unit receives a fourth signal from the fourth sensor, indicating the updated water level in the housing containing the battery pack. For example, the VCU 305 receives a signal indicating the updated water level in battery housing 205 from a water level sensor 415.

[0085] In step 650, the control unit determines whether the updated water level in the housing is lower than the target water level. For example, VCU 305 determines whether the updated water level in battery housing 205 is below the target water level. If the control unit determines in step 650 that the updated water level in the housing is not below the target water level, the procedure returns to step 645. If the control unit determines in step 650 that the updated water level in the housing is lower than the target water level, the procedure returns to step 625.

[0086] Although certain aspects have been described with reference to specific examples, there are variations and modifications within the inventive concept and the scope of one or more independent aspects. Various features and aspects are set forth in the following claims.

[0087] Any and all combinations of claim elements listed in the claims and / or of elements described in this application fall within the intended scope of application of this disclosure and the protection afforded to it. The descriptions of the various embodiments serve for illustration purposes but do not claim to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and variations will be obvious to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and inventive concept of the described embodiments.

[0088] Any combination of one or more computer-readable media can be used. The computer-readable medium can be a computer-readable signaling medium or a computer-readable storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium can be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, device, or apparatus, or a suitable combination thereof.More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of computer-readable storage medium include: an electrical connection with one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. For the purposes of this document, computer-readable storage medium can be any tangible medium capable of containing or storing a program for use by or in conjunction with a command-execution system, device, or apparatus.

[0089] Aspects of the present disclosure are described above with reference to flowchart diagrams and / or block diagrams of processes, devices (systems), and computer program products according to the embodiments of the disclosure. It is understood that each block of the flowchart diagrams and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart diagrams and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be fed to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a specialized computer, or any other programmable data processing device to create a machine.

[0090] When executed by the computer's processor or another programmable data processing device, the instructions enable the implementation of the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram. These processors can be, without limitation, general-purpose processors, specialized processors, application-specific processors, or field-programmable gate arrays.

[0091] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, procedures, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this context, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams can represent a module, segment, or section of code comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions specified in the block may occur in a different order than shown in the figures. For example, two blocks shown consecutively may in reality be executed essentially simultaneously, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved.It is also noted that each block in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, as well as combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, can be implemented by special hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or actions, or by combinations of special hardware and computer instructions.

[0092] While the foregoing relates to embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be developed without departing from the fundamental scope of the disclosure, and the scope of the disclosure is determined by the following claims. 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 63 / 434,364

[0001]

Claims

[1] Thermal management system, including: a housing that accommodates a battery pack, wherein the housing includes an inlet; a sensor configured to detect a property associated with the battery pack; and a control unit coupled to the sensor, wherein the control unit is configured to: Receiving a signal from the sensor indicating the property associated with the battery pack; Determine, based on the property associated with the battery pack, that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met; and In response, water is allowed to flow through the inlet into the housing. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the feature associated with the battery pack includes at least one of a quantity of gas inside the housing, a gas concentration inside the housing, an ambient temperature inside the housing, a temperature of the battery pack, a voltage of the battery pack or a current output through the battery pack. [3] System according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is further configured to disconnect the battery pack from a component of the thermal management system in response to the determination that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is satisfied. [4] System according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is a first sensor, the feature is a first feature associated with the battery pack, and the signal is a first signal, wherein the system further comprises a second sensor configured to detect a water level inside the housing. [5] System according to claim 4, wherein the control unit is further configured to: Receiving a second signal indicating a water level in the housing from the second sensor; Determine, based on the second signal, that the water level inside the housing exceeds a target water level; and The reaction was to stop the flow of water into the housing. [6] System according to claim 5, wherein the control unit is further configured to: Receiving a third signal indicating an updated water level inside the housing from the second sensor; Determine, based on the third signal, that the updated water level inside the housing is below the target water level; and In response, water is allowed to flow through the inlet into the housing. [7] System according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is further configured to send a message indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event to an external device in response to the determination that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is satisfied. [8] System according to claim 1, further comprising a second sensor configured to detect a second property associated with the battery pack; and wherein the control unit is further configured to receive a second signal from the second sensor indicating the second property associated with the battery pack. [9] System according to claim 8, wherein the property associated with the battery pack is a gas concentration inside the housing and the second property associated with the battery pack is an ambient temperature inside the housing. [10] System according to claim 9, wherein, in order to determine that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is met, the control unit is further configured to: Determine, based on the signal that the gas concentration inside the enclosure exceeds a first threshold; or Determine, based on the second signal, that the temperature inside the enclosure exceeds a second threshold. [11] Method for mitigating thermal runaway, comprising: Receiving a signal from a sensor indicating a property associated with a battery pack; Determine, based on the property associated with the battery pack, that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is met; and In response, water is allowed to flow into a housing containing the battery pack. [12] Method according to claim 11, further comprising transmitting a message indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event to an external device in response to the determination that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is satisfied. [13] The method of claim 11, further comprising: Receiving a second signal from a second sensor indicating a water level in the housing; Determine, based on the second signal, that the water level inside the housing exceeds a target water level; and The reaction was to stop the flow of water into the housing. [14] The method of claim 12, further comprising: Receiving a third signal from the second sensor, indicating an updated water level inside the housing; Determine, based on the third signal, that the updated water level inside the housing is lower than the target water level; and The reaction was to let the water flow into the casing. [15] Method according to claim 11, wherein the determination that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is satisfied includes the determination based on the signal that a quantity of gas inside the housing exceeds a threshold. [16] Method according to claim 11, wherein the determination that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is satisfied includes the determination based on the signal that a temperature inside the housing exceeds a threshold. [17] Electric vehicle, including: a variety of traction devices that assist the electric vehicle in its movement; a housing that contains a battery pack which supplies power to one or more components of the electric vehicle; a first sensor configured to detect a first property associated with the battery pack; a second sensor configured to detect a second property associated with the battery pack; and a control unit coupled to the first sensor, wherein the control unit is configured to: Receiving an initial signal from the first sensor, indicating the first property associated with the battery pack; Receiving a second signal from the second sensor, indicating the second property associated with the battery pack; Determine, based on at least one of the first property associated with the battery pack, or the second property associated with the battery pack, that a condition indicating a thermal runaway event is satisfied; and In response, a message indicating the occurrence of a thermal runaway event is sent to an external device. [18] Electric vehicle according to claim 17, wherein the control unit is further configured to allow water to flow into the housing in response to the determination that the condition indicating the thermal runaway event is satisfied. [19] Electric vehicle according to claim 17, wherein the first property associated with the battery pack is a voltage associated with the battery pack and the second property associated with the battery pack is a current associated with the battery pack. [20] Electric vehicle according to claim 17, wherein the electric vehicle is a mining machine which includes an attachment for drilling holes in a mine surface.

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