Layout with double-acting valve for venting a battery box(es) and assembly method

Abstract

The ventilation arrangement (1) includes an annular connector (2) that engages with an opening (O) in a battery housing, defining a ventilation channel (C2). Assembly is simple, achieved by attaching an annular seal to the connector and mounting a cover (3) onto an annular body (20) of the connector by interlocking it to surround this body (20) and cover the channel (C2). A watertight annular contact (C4) between the cover and the body is thus obtained, while the axial position of the cover (3) is locked by a deformable locking member (104) positioned to: - surround an overlap area between an insertion portion of the connector and the cover (3), engaging against the connector, and - be able to deform to unlock the cover when the overpressure in the channel (C2) exceeds a threshold. Figure for the abbreviated version: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: ARRANGEMENT WITH DOUBLE-SENSE VALVE FOR VENTILATING A HOUSING BATTERY(IES) AND ASSEMBLY METHOD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of battery systems, particularly battery ventilation equipment including a vent cap or arrangement for discharging high-pressure air. More particularly, the invention relates to a ventilation arrangement with a two-way valve for mounting on the casing of a battery / power supply and a method for assembling such an arrangement.

[0002] It is known to use battery vent plug systems. These systems require the ability to release excess gas within the casing. Ventilation in the inward direction may depend on the permeability level of a membrane.

[0003] As described in document DE 102019100085 A1, some ventilation systems provide a cover mounted on a base fixedly attached to the battery case. The cover carries a membrane associated with a movable support, which rises in response to a pressure buildup inside the case. Venting is achieved in two modes: a default mode permitted by the membrane's permeability, and an emergency mode that opens a large passage for air exhaust. The pressure buildup beyond a predetermined threshold (overpressure threshold) overcomes the force of a helical spring that forces the membrane and its support towards a seating area on the base.

[0004] With this type of safety device, if the battery continues to operate in a defective state or undergoing thermal runaway, the extensive ventilation can limit or prevent irreversible damage to the battery and potentially serious injury, for example, in the event of a fire. However, the assembly required in DE 102019100085 A1 is quite complex and can also be cumbersome.

[0005] There is therefore a need for devices of simple design, usable effectively for the ventilation and pressure regulation of batteries.

[0006] This disclosure improves the situation.

[0007] To this end, a ventilation arrangement for a battery box (power supply box) is proposed, in particular comprising one or more batteries, the arrangement comprising: - a wall element, including a plate provided with a first passage and a second passage which each establish a fluidic communication, one for a gaseous exhaust and the other for a gaseous supply, between an inside of the casing and the outside; - a first flap allowing the first passage to be closed by means of a sealing element located on a first side relative to the plate, the first flap being carried and / or guided by a guide (for example by being mounted movable on this guide) which passes through a mounting hole provided in the wall element, preferably by passing through said mounting hole in a direction defining a longitudinal axis of the first flap; - a second valve allowing the second passage to be closed in a closed position; - wherein the first valve is a non-return valve whose sealing element is movable, under the effect of a pressure exerted sufficiently on the sealing element to overcome a restoring force of a restoring element, preferably an elastic restoring element, located on the first side, and wherein the guide is part of the second valve by being movable, preferably axially, through a passage (central passage) formed by the first valve, in order to allow a sealing end, provided in the second valve and located on a second side opposite to the first side with respect to the plate, to move away from the second passage in the event of a depression in the housing.

[0008] Thanks to these arrangements, a two-way valve is obtained that is simple to assemble and reduces the number of parts. The second valve can be a check valve with the opposite direction to the first valve. The return element can advantageously be the same as for both valves to drive the respective closing mechanisms towards their closed position. Optionally, the arrangement can be without a valve body and / or all the components of the arrangement constituting this two-way valve can be movable along the longitudinal axis, with the exception of the wall element (which can be flat or extend substantially in a plane).

[0009] The second valve may have a simple structure, for example, consisting of a rigid, generally T-shaped piece (with an enlarged end / forming the sealing end) as seen in longitudinal section, with an annular seal attached to the sealing end of this piece. As seen in a longitudinal sectional plane, the mounting orifice may have a cross-section larger than the maximum radial extension of the opening(s) constituting the second passage

[0010] The wall element can form part of the housing or complete the housing by being able to cover (hermetically) an opening in the housing, possibly by mounting itself in this opening. The wall element may consist of a flat piece, possibly of thickness in less than or equal to a longitudinal dimension of the seal(s) carried by the first flap (dimension measured along the direction of the longitudinal axis). Such a longitudinal dimension may be less than or equal to 9 mm and / or the sealing element of the first flap may be flat and compact.

[0011] In examples of the construction of the arrangement, one or more of the following provisions are provided: - the arrangement can be formed as a cover for the case, - the guide is part of a piece of the second valve which makes up the closing end, this piece can optionally be narrower / less wide than a bearing portion of the first valve on which the elastically deformable return element rests. - the guide extends in a straight line. - the guide includes a hollow part to allow a connection of the return element, by housing a portion (support portion) or end of the return element. - the support portion constitutes a radial portion of the first valve which covers, with an axial offset, the second passage. - the support portion constitutes a radial portion of the first valve inscribed in a virtual cylinder inside which are located the opening(s) constituting the second passage. - the first flap comprises or consists of: sealing means for contact with the plate; and a structural piece delimiting the central passage of the first flap for the guide and carrying the sealing means, the guide being in the form of a rod extending on either side of the structural piece and serving as a fixing point for the return element, opposite the closing end. - the return element, with elastic return effect, is coupled to the guide and to a support portion provided on the first valve. - the return element is equipped with a spring entirely located outside the housing. - the spring is configured to force the first valve against the plate. - the return element, by reaction to a press on or a repulsion exerted against the first valve, is adapted to generate a traction action exerted on the second valve, against the plate. - the elastic return element can be functionally coupled to the guide of the second valve, so that this return element pulls the second valve against the plate in order to keep the second passage closed by default by the second valve.

[0012] In mounting configurations of the arrangement, with support (typically axial) of the return element against the first valve, one or more of the dis- following positions: - the elastic return element is interposed, preferably by being sandwiched, between the annular support portion designed as an end of the first flap away from the plate, on the one hand, and a fixing portion provided in the guide on the other hand, this fixing portion extending opposite the sealing end to retain / maintain the elastic return element against the support portion. - the fixing portion has a notch allowing, after insertion of the guide into the mounting hole and into the passage (for example a central passage) formed by the first valve, to bring / hold the elastic return element onto a portion of the guide which is axially salient relative to the support portion. - the notch serves to house and axially lock one end of the elastic return element.

[0013] A pre-assembled design, with the two valves mounted on the same plate, allows the arrangement to be effectively fixed onto or covered by a large opening provided in a housing, preferably enabling a gas-tight seal in an environment subject to vibrations. This is particularly relevant when the battery housing is mounted in a motor vehicle, for example, a car or other rolling machine.

[0014] The elastic return element, for example in the form of a simple helical spring, can act as a tie rod to prevent, typically on its own, the extraction of the second valve from the mounting hole. The helical spring may include an end extending across a hollow space in the spring and adapted to fit into the notch in the guide.

[0015] The features described in the following paragraphs may optionally be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other: - the first valve carries sealing means to allow at least one sealed annular contact against the plate, so as to surround the first passage. - the annular contact (of the first valve with the plate) surrounding the first passage, arranged with possibly a spacing between this annular contact and the first passage, is made by a sealing lip which is thinned towards its free annular end. - the first side corresponds to an external side relative to the housing, so the first flap is provided on the outside of the plate to close the first passage from the outside. - The sealing lip can protrude radially outwards by being curved (by default and / or in response to axial contact of the plate) with a convex side forming an inner face of this lip. - a tubular part of the first valve has an opening axially opposite the plate to allow the guide to emerge from the central passage delimited by this tubular part. - the first valve carries, on a rigid radial portion of valve which surrounds the tubular part, two annular seals, one of which is comparatively closer to the longitudinal axis than the other. - the joint closer to the longitudinal axis has a fixing end away from the plate and engaged in a recess or thinning, preferably in the form of an annular groove or a shoulder provided in the radial portion. - the other seal of the first valve surrounds the radial portion, - the tubular part and the radial portion are connected and form part of the same piece made of or based on plastic material. - the second passage and the first passage can be separated from each other by an annular portion of the plate which defines a seating area, preferably annular, on which, in the said closing position, a seal carried by the second valve rests.

[0016] According to one particular feature, the wall element, which may optionally be made in one piece, has at least one C-shaped slot extending over an angular sector greater than or equal to 55° (around the longitudinal axis passing through the mounting hole). The slot(s) constitute(s) all or part of the first passage. Each slit can have a circular arc shape / geometry. An outside diameter of the sealing element is greater than twice the radius of curvature of the slits forming the first passage.

[0017] According to another aspect, a method for assembling a ventilation arrangement for a battery housing is proposed, the method comprising the steps essentially consisting of: - engage, through a mounting hole formed in a plate of a wall element of the housing, a guide (typically elongated) having a first retaining end and integral with a second retaining end not inserted in the mounting hole, so that the guide has a male section located on a first side which is, with respect to the plate, opposite the second retaining end; - couple a first valve to the plate, by placing sealing means on the first valve in order to allow the watertight closure, on said first side in a closed configuration, of a first passage distinct from the mounting orifice and also provided on the plate; - during the first phase of coupling the first valve, insert the male section of the guide through a passage (central passage) formed by a female section or tubular part of the first valve, so that the first valve is carried by the guide and preferably centered around it, while the second retaining end forms a closing end of a second valve which includes the guide; - during a second phase of coupling the first valve, lock the closing configuration of the first valve, by installing on the first side a return element (preferably with elastic return effect) arranged to exert a return force against the first valve in order to allow the latter to function as a check valve, the return element being connected to the first retaining end forming an accessible fixing portion of the male section (typically external to the central passage and for example axially spaced from the outlet of this central passage) so as to oppose a movement of the guide in the direction of a second side of the plate opposite to the first side; knowing that the plate is also provided with a second passage selectively closed by the closing end of the second valve, the first and second passages each being able to establish a fluidic communication, one for a gaseous exhaust and the other for a gaseous supply, between an interior of the housing and the exterior.

[0018] The assembly is thus quick, compatible with a two-piece structure sliding relative to each other and with the use of a single return element common to both valves, which can be a simple elastic return element (typically made in one piece). This return element can also allow the two valves to be locked. In some options, the return element may include one or more magnetic portions, for example allowing this return element to solicit / recall the first retaining end to a position furthest from the mounting hole and / or push the first flap (towards / against the plate) by a magnetic repulsion effect.

[0019] According to one particular feature, the sealing means are capable of establishing two sealing contacts, each annular, by pressing against the plate after the coupling of the first valve, the latter then being sandwiched between the return element and the plate.

[0020] The arrangement is pre-assembled, so that it can be transported, packaged, and delivered robustly, without risk of detachment of either of the valves, and allows for limiting the number of steps required to install the arrangement on the battery housing component. A weld, a simple screw, or a bayonet connection can be used to achieve a seal between the wall element, possibly using a connecting gasket, while the first and second valves will each remain in their respective sealing configuration for the corresponding passageways. plate weights. Brief description of the drawings

[0021] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analysis of the accompanying drawings, on which: Fig. 1 shows, in cross-section, a ventilation unit according to a first embodiment suitable for mounting, directly or indirectly, on a wall of a battery case. [Fig.2A] is a perspective view from the inside of the unit shown in [Fig.1], illustrating the compact integration of two respective cover flaps on either side of the plate, in order to close corresponding passages for opposing flows through the plate. Fig. 2B is a perspective view of the sealing part of one of the valves of the ventilation arrangement, before the installation of a contact seal with the plate which is projecting from a sealing face of this valve in the mounted state to allow separation of a radially external sub-zone communicating with the inside of the housing from another radially internal sub-zone which can only communicate with the inside of the housing in the event of opening of a first passage of the arrangement closed by default by the other valve. [Fig.3] is a view similar to [Fig.1], showing a ventilation unit according to a second embodiment, using a sealing lip for the separation between the two sub-zones. [Fig.4A] shows by way of a cross-sectional view a configuration of the ventilation unit of [Fig.3] in case of overpressure in the battery box(es). [Fig.4B] shows by a cross-sectional view a configuration of the same ventilation unit for a case of depression in the battery box(es). Figure 5 illustrates a pair of annular seals that can be carried in the sealing part of the second valve. [Fig.6] illustrates an example of mounting the ventilation unit, which here is that of [Fig.3], on an external face of a wall of the battery case. [Fig.7] is a partially exploded view of a ventilation unit including a two-way valve, before the installation of the second flap of this valve. Figure [8] illustrates a variant of assembly to obtain the ventilation unit, according to a third embodiment. Description of the implementation methods

[0022] Several non-limiting examples of embodiments are set out in detail below. In the various figures, identical reference numerals indicate identical or similar elements.

[0023] With reference to Figures 1, 3, 6, and 8, a ventilation unit is shown that can be supplied as a pre-assembled unit, ready to seal an opening O in a battery case (see [Fig. 6]) by typically mounting on the side of an external face of a shell or plate P of the case B. In what follows, this pre-assembled unit is referred to as ventilation arrangement 1. In some options, arrangement 1 has a peripheral support portion surrounding a contact plate 2 with two flaps 3, 4, the peripheral portion including or consisting of a connecting element provided with fastening means, for example, formed as insertion / retaining tabs for holding in position on the battery case.More generally, the arrangement 1 has a wall element including a plate 2 allowing the mounting of two valves with an overlap of these valves, for example by mounting a first valve 3 coaxially around the second valve 4 which passes through the plate 2 through a mounting hole 23. .

[0024] In the illustrated examples, the first valve 3 has an elongation direction along a longitudinal axis that can pass through the mounting hole 23. The first valve 23 may have a sealing portion 30 located in a zone Z2 which is external with respect to the housing B. Such a sealing portion 30 extends transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis A, here perpendicular to this axis A.

[0025] The two valves 3, 4 are combined to form a two-way valve, with: - the first valve 3 adapted to selectively close, in a hermetic manner, a first passage 21 formed in the plate 2; - the second valve 4 adapted to selectively close a second passage 21 formed in the plate 2, this second passage 22 including one or more openings extending into one or more regions of the plate 2 which are not hermetically covered by the first valve. The second valve 4 has a sealing end 40 located in the ZI zone, which is internal to the plate 2. This sealing end is connected to a rod or similar section forming a guide 5 that passes through the plate 2 via the mounting hole 23. The guide 5, which belongs to the second valve 4, has an end forming a fixing portion 5a for a return element 7. The fixing portion 5a can also be inserted into the mounting hole 23 when it is made as a single piece with the guide 5 and optionally with a radial portion forming part of the sealing end 40.

[0026] In the case of Figures 1, 2A and 3 as well as on [Fig.8], it is illustrated the case of a plate 2 substantially flat at least in the region of contact with the obturator end 40 and the obturator element 30. In variants, a step may be present in the plate, for example between the first pass 21 and the second pass 22 without this functionally altering the arrangement 1.

[0027] As can be seen in particular in Figures 1, 3 and 8, the end of the sealing element 40 can be dimensioned to be narrower (with a reduced outer diameter) compared to the sealing element 30 (with a larger outer diameter). In this case, a generally concentric arrangement of the openings can be adopted in the plate 2, with: - the mounting opening 23 crossed by the longitudinal axis A which cuts plate 2 perpendicularly; - with a spacing or range of spacings relative to the orifice 23, one or more openings forming the second passage 22; and - with another spacing or another range of spacings relative to the orifice 23, which is greater than the spacing provided for the second passage, one or more openings forming the first passage 21; knowing that the sealing element is perforated to form an axial access to the second passage 22.

[0028] The first passage 21 allows, for the closed state of the first valve 3, to locally extend the zone ZI to one or more pressure regions on the sealing element 30 which covers the plate 2 (therefore covering the first passage 21) from the outside. The ventilation arrangement 1, while assembled to close by default the first passage 21 (by the first damper 3) and the second passage 22 (by the second damper 4), is capable of allowing: - degassing by expulsion of gas from the inner zone ZI via the first passage 21, made possible by a displacement (with axial movement away from the passage 21) of the sealing element 30 of the first valve 3 under the effect of the overpressure in the housing which also exists against this portion of the sealing element 30, here in a zone Zl' adjacent to the sealing element 30; and - a supply of gas to the housing from the outer zone Z2 via the second passage, made possible by the displacement (here also with an axial distance from the second passage 22) of the obturating end 40 of the second valve 4 under the effect of the pressure acting via the second passage against this obturating end 40, here in an area adjacent to the obturating end 40 which may be surrounded by a lip or similar portion of an annular sealing element J2.

[0029] It is understood that a first check valve 3 and a second check valve 4 are thus formed, which respectively cover the first passage 21 and the second passage 22 only on the side by which either of them can move back and thus away from the plate 2. In the illustrated examples, the first passage 21 establishes a fluidic communication for a gaseous exhaust in the displaced / recoiled state of the first valve 3, while the second passage 22 establishes a fluidic communication for a gaseous supply in the displaced / recoiled state of the second valve 4. In some embodiment variants, the opposite may be provided with the second valve 4 located in the outer zone Z, so that it is the second passage 22 which allows degassing, while the first passage 21 allows the gas supply (case where the plate would be mounted inverted compared to the non-limiting examples illustrated).

[0030] More generally, the arrangement 1 has two valves 3, 4 which move in opposite directions while being held against the plate 2 by means of one or more sealing elements J1, J1', J2, involving a return element 7 which can: - exert a restoring force on the first flap 3 to return the sealing element 30 towards / against the plate, typically by a push exerted on a bearing portion 32 provided on the first flap 3 opposite the sealing element 30; and - be interposed between the fixing portion 5a and the first flap 3, on a first side relative to the plate 2.

[0031] The first valve 3 is carried and / or guided by the guide 5 which passes through the mounting orifice 23 with the fixing portion 5a which emerges from this orifice 23 for example in a direction coinciding with the longitudinal axis A of the first valve 3. This makes the first valve 3 entirely movable as a unit, under the effect of a pressure exerted sufficiently on the sealing element 30 to overcome the restoring force of the restoring element 7 which may be a spring or similar part. Since the guide 5 is directly mounted to slide within a tubular portion 31 of the first valve 3, the second valve 4 can be movable (axially) in a manner compatible with the absence of displacement of the first valve 3 due to its movable state. This second valve 4 can be held in a mounted, inserted state within the mounting orifice 23 by means of the retaining portion 5a, which is engaged against a locking member that may be wider than the dimension / width of the mounting orifice.

[0032] In the case of [Fig. 1], this locking member is formed by the return element 7, typically made in one piece. The sealing end 40, provided in the second valve 4 on a second side (opposite to the first side), can move away from the second passage 22 in the event of a depression in the housing B, as illustrated in the case of [Fig. 1].4B], thanks to a degree of freedom in translation allowed by the return element or similar blocking organ(s) capable of pushing the first valve 3 while retaining the fixing portion 5a with a play along the direction of the longitudinal axis A. An elastic return element 7 can be chosen, in order to allow a simple design which automatically allows a return to a closed conformation for both valves, in case of pressure equilibrium on both sides of the plate 2.

[0033] Regardless of the design and integration method of the return element, particularly with an elastic return effect, the arrangement 1 can allow two directions of ventilation while co-locating two valves 3 and 4 which are mounted on the same region of the plate 2 which is: - as wide as the shutter element 30, - corresponds to an assembly region where both the first pass 21 and the second pass 22 are located.

[0034] When the environment of the battery case B is cluttered, as well as the inside of this case, the arrangement 1 above may prove compatible for plugging a small case opening, and this without protruding significantly inside the case, given the typically flat design of the shutter end 40 which is the only part of the arrangement which extends into the inner ZI area. Examples of opening(s) to form the passages of the plate

[0035] The plate 2 may have openings distributed in a portion of substantially constant thickness. While the mounting hole 23 may have a circular cross-section, the opening(s) of the first passage 21 and the second passage 22, respectively, may have various shapes, preferably without exceeding one centimeter with regard to the radial extension of the openings.

[0036] The wall element, which can be made in one piece, includes for example at least one slot 020 in the shape of "C" extending over an angular sector greater than or equal to 55°, preferably with circular arc geometry, which can form an opening of the first passage 21. Other geometric shapes can be used, preferably limiting the radial extension of the openings or slots. In the non-limiting case of figures 2A and 4A, two arc-shaped slots 020 constitute the first passage 21. A single annular seal J1 can thus surround these two slots while another annular seal Jl', concentric in relation to the seal Jl, is sufficient to separate the slots 020 from the more central region where gas flow G can flow to compensate for a depression in the housing B.

[0037] Each seal J1, J1 can be projecting from a sealing face F3. At least in a continuous annular region facing the openings or slots 020 of the first passage 21, such a face F3 may not be covered by a seal - except for edges or margins, which makes it possible to obtain an axial spacing directly between the face F3 and each external outlet of the first passage 21, knowing that this spacing increases in the event of opening of the first valve 3. More generally, to increase such a spacing, the return element 7 can be contracted by having an axial extension h7 smaller than its axial extension H7 obtained by default, i.e. in the locked position with pressure equilibrium between the zones Z1, Z2.

[0038] More generally, it can be provided that all the openings of the second passage 22 and that of the first passage 21 are separated from each other by an annular portion of the non-perforated plate 2 which defines a seating area ZS (visible in [Fig.2A]), preferably annular, on which, in the closing position of the second valve 4, the seal J2 carried by the closing end 40 rests, typically at the periphery or in a margin area of ​​this end 40. The annular sealing contact C4 of the seal J2 is maintained by means of the return effect of the element 7, insofar as the latter is held constrained, for example compressed to be shorter than its nominal length when it is a helical spring arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis A. Examples of the first valve assembly

[0039] A first embodiment of the first valve 3 is described in connection with Figures 1 to 3. The first valve 3 may have a tubular portion 31 extending around a central recess forming all or part of the passage 03 for the guide 5 provided in the second valve 4. The tubular portion 31 may extend around the longitudinal axis A between the sealing element 30 (which extends the central recess to allow the passage of the guide 5) and a bearing portion 32 for the return element 7. The bearing portion 32, radial and typically flat, may constitute a rigid end of the first valve 3.

[0040] The valve 3 may consist of a hollow structural part, including the tubular portion 31, the support portion 32, and a rigid radial portion for supporting one or more annular seals J1, J1' for contact with the plate 2. This seal or these seals may be the only additional components of the structural part required to obtain the first valve 3. The tubular portion 31 may be relatively short, so that the first valve 3 is shorter than it is wide (with an external diameter of the sealing element thus exceeding the length of this valve 3). The guide 5, which slides in the central passage of the first valve 3, may be in the form of a rod extending on either side of the structural part, when the return element 7 is fixed to the portion 5a to maintain the second valve 4 in a through-position relative to the central passage 03.

[0041] As can be seen in particular in [Fig. 2B], the innermost seal Jl' carried by the enlarged radial portion constituting the sealing element 30 can be fixed, for example by being mounted with an interference fit (inserted / pressed under pressure, typically) in an annular groove R3, which can have a substantially constant depth (groove R3 here cut into the thickness of the radial portion 30a). This seal Jl' can generally have a rectangular or square cross-section. This seal Jl' can extend around a perforated portion of the radial portion that forms an access to the second passage 22, making it possible to separate the outer zone Z2 from the zone Zl' adapted to be brought to the same pressure as the internal pressure of housing B, thanks to the first pass 21.

[0042] The first valve 3 can thus, by bearing against the plate 2, form two sealed annular barriers to delimit such a zone ZI', in this case between: - the innermost joint J1'; - and the outermost joint J1 (furthest from the longitudinal axis A). Constructing a first valve 3 with two separate seals J1, J1' provides a large annular surface on the valve face F3 opposite the plate 2, subjected to internal pressure. This annular surface is larger compared to the opening / section of the first passage 21 alone. Therefore, the required pressure threshold beyond which the thrust force will be sufficient to retract the first valve 3, overcoming the return force of the element 7, can be relatively low to avoid an emergency venting situation.

[0043] When the first passage comprises or consists of two arc-shaped slots 020, these slots 020 can be positioned closer to the contact zone C2 than to the contact zone C1, or approximately midway between these two zones C1 and C2.In all cases, it is permissible to evacuate the overpressure in the casing by lifting the sealing means Jl, Jl' while ensuring, by a predominantly upward circulation effect in the zone Zl', that the first valve 3 is maintained at a correctly raised level in case of emergency to discharge, as quickly as possible, gas from the inner zone ZL.

[0044] The return element 7 can be chosen to be robust and adapted to adjust the level of the internal overpressure threshold, beyond which the first valve 3 is pushed back to release the first passage.

[0045] With reference to Figures 1, 3, and 8, the seal(s) Jl, Jl' can be welded to a rigid radial portion 30a of the first valve 3, projecting axially from this portion 30a. One of these two seals Jl, which is the wider one, has a lip L (see also [Fig. 7]) enabling an annular contact Cl against the plate 2, which is a peripheral contact (around the Zl' area in particular), distal to the longitudinal axis A. A symmetrical construction of the first valve 3 around the axis A can be used. The other seal Jl', which is narrower, can also provide an annular axial sealing contact C2. On plate 2, the second passage 22 can be interposed radially between contact C2 and mounting port 23. A thinned structure of the lip L can be chosen to facilitate flexion of the lip L in the closed position of the first valve 3.

[0046] In a second embodiment, as seen in particular in Figures 3, 4A-4B and 5, the innermost seal Jl' carried by the first valve 3 has a sealing lip LU which completes an end or portion of the fixing of this seal Jl'. The the fixing portion of this seal J1' can form a cavity or groove Gl' turned radially on an external side of the seal Jl', into which enters a part with a shoulder 300 or similar circumferential relief provided in the radial portion 30a of the valve 3. At least in these options with two seals Jl, Jl', the sealing element 30 of the first valve 3 is designed to be wider than the sealing end 40 of the second valve 4. Each valve 3 and 4 may have a seal forming an outer periphery of the sealing part 30 or 40.

[0047] Each deformable seal J1, J1', for example made of elastomer, is attached to the structural part of the valve 3, with each fixing of the seals J1, J1' being made possible by a deformable portion 38 or fixing end, which is mounted by deformation, typically by being held against an annular gripping edge (knowing that the radial portion 30a includes a ring forming two circumferential edges allowing such engagement, respectively for the seal J1 and the seal J1'). The portion 38 may have a C-shaped cross-section adapted to pinch the corresponding gripping edge of the radial portion 30a, this gripping edge being able to correspond to a thinning, so that the face of the portion 38 oriented opposite the plate 2 is level with the axial face of the radial portion 30a oriented in the same direction.The axial face may be substantially flat, but where appropriate its 30b bridges protrude on such an axial face, as explained later.

[0048] When two lip seals Jl, Jl' are attached to two ring-shaped (typically concentric) gripping edges around the axis, they can cover the radial portion 30a on the side opposite the plate for an axial retention effect of the seal, as illustrated for example in [Fig. 4A]. In such a case, the tubular portion 31 and the radial portion 30a can be rigidly connected by bridges 30b which are axially offset from each gripping edge, extending, relative to this or these annular gripping edges, further back from the plate 2. The bridges 30b can be part of a molded piece, formed from the same material as the tubular portion 31 (as well as the annular portion 32) and the radial portion 30a. Thus, the inner seal J1 can cover an inner circumference of the crowned part used to close the first passage 21, and the bridges 30b do not interfere with the installation of this inner seal J1.

[0049] As clearly visible in Figures 4a and 7, the bridges 30b can be axially connected to the radial portion 30a, in an intermediate zone between the inner gripping edge receiving the seal J1' and a circumferential outer edge of the radial portion 30a. This arrangement can also be adopted when the inner seal J1' is received / engaged in an annular groove R3 facing the plate 2.

[0050] In the non-limiting example of Figures 1, 3 and 6, it is understood that the joint(s) The seals Jl, Jl' of the first valve 3 can / can bear against an annular seating area provided on the plate 2, around the second passage 22, without the movement / positioning of the first valve 3 being able to block the flow of external gas towards the housing B via the second passage 22. The seal(s) Jl, Jl' remain external to the housing B, without being able to penetrate internally into the housing B. Each seal Jl, Jl' can be an annular seal of a part coming into axial contact with the plate 2 on an external face of the latter, elsewhere than at the level of the external outlet(s) of the first passage 21. One or more seals Jl, Jl' which are attached to or integrated into the sealing element 30 are illustrated here, in order to create, in particular, a leak-proof annular contact for gas sealing. In variants, a common joint can be made to perform the same function, allowing the first passage 21 to be separated from the outer zone Z2.

[0051] It has been described so far that the seal Jl or Jl' carried by the sealing element 30 is axially stressed against the plate 2 integrated / attached to the battery housing B. However, at least one seal could also be mounted directly on the plate 2, for example on a suitable groove area, at which an axial and / or radial contact action with deformation can be exerted on the seal by the sealing element 30, for a closed configuration of the first valve 3. The first valve 3 can then be arranged as in [Fig. 1].

[0052] In a third embodiment, as seen in [Fig. 8], the first valve 3 may have one or more structural differences. For example, the tubular portion 31 may, by the hollow space it delimits, not only form a passage for the guide 5 but also be wide enough to at least partially receive a spring or return element 7 capable of pushing the sealing element 30 back into its closed position of the first passage 21 by default. In this case, the bearing portion 32 may include an internal shoulder area or an internally raised portion, on which the return element, here illustrated as an elastic return element 7, for example a helical spring arranged in a compressed state, can bear.One end of the spring engages against the fixing portion 5a of the guide 5, so that this spring is interposed in a compressed state between the fixing portion 5a and the support portion 32 located here near the sealing element 30. This type of design can make the arrangement 1 even more compact.

[0053] In some options, the flap 4, which includes the guide 5, can form a stop for the bearing portion 32, thus preventing the spring 7 from excessively compressing the seal(s) Jl, Jl'. This case with a stop can result from a design with an external shoulder formed in the guide 5, so that the mounting hole 23 is slightly enlarged relative to a hole for the guide 5, formed as a through hole provided substantially in the center of the bearing portion 32.

[0054] Regardless of the precise design adopted for the structural part of the first valve 3, it may also be provided that the sealing contacts Cl, C2 are made by means of a technical two-lip seal, which can be retained in a rail or a groove provided in the radial portion 30a of the sealing element 30. [Fig.8] illustrates a non-limiting example of a two-lip seal which alone can seal the first passage 21. The seal J1 is radially offset further out than the perforated part of the sealing element 30, so that gas G present in the external environment of the housing closed by arrangement 1. Example(s) of the second valve implementation

[0055] The second valve 4 is designed with a similar stem or guide 5 that has a retaining end or fixing portion 5A, so that the valve 4 is elongated, having a male section structure for insertion through the mounting hole 23 and the central passage 03. This narrow structure is completed by the sealing end 40, so that the cross-section of the second valve is substantially T-shaped, as viewed in a longitudinal plane. The central axis of the second valve 4 can coincide with the longitudinal axis A of the first valve 3. The male section extends in practice along the first side of the plate 2 or outer side (with the area Z2).

[0056] As can be seen in particular in Figures 7 and 8, the fixing portion 5a may have a slot, hole or notch F5 allowing, after insertion of the guide 5 into the mounting hole 23 and into the passage 03 formed by the first flap 3, the return element 7 to be brought / held onto a portion of the guide 5 which is axially projecting relative to the support portion 32. The notch F5 may optionally have a curved region adjacent to the radial opening of the notch, providing for an anchoring end of the return element 7 guidance towards a recessed position (for example with the anchoring end which reaches or is proximal to the axis A) in which this element 7 is held axially by a bottom of the notch F5 so that it is held constrained, for example held in a compressed state.

[0057] More broadly, the notch F5 typically serves to house and axially block one end of the return element 7, which is for example an elastic return element whose transverse end, for example with a wire structure, can serve to axially restrain the assembly formed by the return element 7 and the first valve 3. This end of the return element 7 is for example mobile along the direction of the longitudinal axis A in response to an axial compression or an axial stretching of the structure of this return element.

[0058] The mounting of the second valve 4 allows compression of the elastic return element 7, particularly in response to a thrust force exerted from the first side to the second side, typically in the event of a depression in the inner ZI zone of the housing. Incoming ventilation is then permitted as long as the elastic return element 7 remains compressed, due to a gap in the seal J2, which may be a lip seal, relative to the plate 2.

[0059] The return element 7, at least when it consists of a spring interposed between the fixing portion 5a and the support portion 32, can be compressed with a reduced size h7 or h7', for: - the case of the opening of the first passage 21, given that with the plate 2 and the second valve 4 which remain fixed / stationary, the removal of the first valve 3 will compress all or part of the return element 7; - the case of the opening of the first passage 22, given that with the plate 2 and the first flap 3 which remain fixed / stationary, the displacement of the obturation end 40 of the flap 4 to move away from the plate 2 corresponds to a bringing closer of the fixing portion 5a to the support portion 32, so that the return element 7 is pushed and compressed proportionally, and typically identically, to the displacement of the fixing portion 5.

[0060] The sealing end 40 can define a hollow space, surrounded by the circumferential seal J2, such that after annular contact of the second valve 4 against the plate on the second side, a zone Z2' is present in which the prevailing pressure is that of the external zone Z2. This equal pressure results from the fluidic communication permitted between the zone Z2 (which surrounds the first valve 3, on the first side) and the zone Z2' on the second side, which is a zone covered by the sealing end 40 in the sealing configuration of the second valve 4. Here, it is planned that the joint J2 is radially outwards relative to the position of the opening(s) forming the second passage 22, so that the area Z2' extends further from the longitudinal axis A than the passage 22.

[0061] In the case illustrated in Figures 1, 2A and 2B, the face F3 of the first valve 3 is chosen to be larger than the face of the valve 4 used to delimit the zone Z2'. In this way, despite the use of a return element 7 common to both valves 3, 4, it can be ensured that the opening threshold of the first valve 3 is lower, therefore a threshold corresponding to a lower pressure (overpressure), than the opening threshold provided for the second valve 4. More generally, the sealing end 40, when located on the inside of the housing B, can be dimensioned to present a face (subjected to external pressure via the second passage 22) smaller than the face F3 located on the other side of the plate 2. In a reversed embodiment, the dimensioning can be changed by widening the sealing end 40 (then located on the outside) and / or by reducing the face F3 of the sealing portion 30, to also obtain a situation where the opening threshold for gases escaping from the housing is comparatively lower. lower than the opening threshold in the direction of entry into the case. Assembly of the arrangement to obtain a two-way valve

[0062] The assembly of the two-way valve, here with a hollow stem or tubular part 31 of the first valve 3 traversed by the guide 5 (thinner stem), can take advantage of a central guiding effect when the first valve 3 is placed along the stem forming the guide 5. In one embodiment, the arrangement 1 has symmetry with respect to a median plane passing through the longitudinal axis X.

[0063] Relative rotation between the parts constituting the tubular section 31 and the guide 5 may be permitted, at least at the beginning of the guiding process. This lack of rotational indexing can be advantageous during assembly, with a view to increasing the production rate of pre-assembled ventilation units / arrangements. In one embodiment, rotational indexing of the first damper can also be provided, typically with anti-rotation means. For example, the two dampers 3 and 4 are assembled by engaging an internal relief of the tubular section 31 in an elongated groove of the guide 5, or vice versa, with an external relief of the guide 5 engaged in an elongated internal groove of the tubular section. If necessary, a combination of different reliefs can be provided for this guidance with rotational indexing.

[0064] To obtain the two-way valve with adequate mobility of the two flaps 3, 4, the assembly method uses a wall element including the plate 2 with these three types of openings 21, 22, 23 and may have the following steps: - provide each of the valves 3, 4, providing sealing means J1, J1' on the first valve 3 and a sealing gasket J2 on the second valve 4; - insert the guide 5 of the second valve 4 into the plate 2 through the mounting hole 23, so as to have the male section on one side of the plate, while the sealing end 40, which is wider than the mounting hole and a distribution region of the openings of the second passage 22, remains on the opposite side on a second side of the plate 2; - couple the first valve 3 to the plate 2, by bringing the sealing means Jl, Jl' into contact with the plate on the first side, in order to allow the first passage 21 to be sealed, knowing that: during a first phase of coupling of the first valve 3, the male section of the guide 5 is inserted through the central passage 03 formed by the tubular part or body 31 which acts as the female section of the first valve 3, so that the first valve 3 is carried by this guide 5, typically centered around it; During a second phase of coupling the first valve 3, the closing configuration of the first valve 3 is locked by installing the return element 7, whose return force can be exerted against the first valve 3 by a simple push towards the plate, by connecting and locking this return element 7 against the portion of fixing 5a which is accessible beyond the central passage 03, with for example an axially interposed position of the return element 7 between the support portion 32 and a stop surface provided at the end of the guide in the fixing portion 5a.

[0065] This arrangement allows the first valve 3 and the second valve to each function as a check valve. The second passage 22 is selectively closed by the closing end 40 of the second valve 4 by being positioned directly above axial openings 35 provided in the valve 3 closer to axis A than the seal J1' or similar part of a seal used to separate the outer zone Z2 from the zone Z1'. An umbrella-shaped or axially covering arrangement of the bearing portion of the axial openings 35 of the valve 3 may optionally be adopted. In general, it is understood that the first passage 21 and the second passage 22 can each establish a fluidic communication, one for a gaseous exhaust and the other for a gaseous supply, between an interior of the housing and the exterior, only one of these passages 21 or 22 being able to be released.

[0066] A protective effect can be provided by the bearing portion 32, which can constitute a radial portion of the first valve 3, in order to limit the risk of external soiling reaching the sealing element 30 when the first valve is mounted on the outside of the plate 2, outside an internal volume of the housing B. For example, the bearing portion 32 can be inscribed in a virtual cylinder (for example a cylinder of revolution about the longitudinal axis A) inside of which are located one or more openings which constitute the second passage 22. Where applicable, the axial spaces or openings 35 formed in the area of ​​connection of the sealing element 30 to the body / tubular part 31 are also contained in such a virtual cylinder.

[0067] In certain options, the opening O of the housing B can be made accessible by removing a cover incorporating the wall element with plate 2. In some options this type of cover can be dislodged as soon as the pressure on the inner side / zone ZI (side of the internal volume of the battery housing) exceeds a threshold.

[0068] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, only by way of example, but encompasses all variants that a person skilled in the art may consider without deviating from the operating principle of the arrangement with two valves mounted in reverse on a common wall element.

[0069] For example, different formats of seals J1, J1', J2 can be used, which includes the case of flat seal(s) or seals not having an annular geometry to surround the axis A. For example, the first and / or second valve can have a general split, star or horseshoe shape for example, without a continuously rounded periphery.

[0070] Furthermore, the term battery case should be understood in a general sense, the case being able to contain one or more groups of accumulators capable of supplying energy in electrical form or energy usable in any form for conversion into electrical energy.

[0071] The housing wall P including the opening O can have any orientation. Although the non-limiting example of [Fig.6] corresponds to an orientation of this plate P in a generally horizontal plane to have a first flap 3 axially surmounting (from above) the plate 2, so that the axis X of the opening O is vertical here, other arrangements are permitted, in particular with a ventilation unit mounted laterally on the battery housing.

Claims

Claims

1. Ventilation arrangement (1) for a battery case(s), the arrangement (1) comprising: - a wall element, including a plate (2) provided with a first passage (21) and a second passage (22) which each establish a fluid communication, one for a gaseous exhaust and the other for a gaseous supply, between an interior of the case (B) and the exterior; - a first valve (3) for closing the first passage (21) by a closing element (30) located on a first side relative to the plate (2), the first valve (3) being carried and / or guided by a guide (5) which passes through a mounting orifice (23) provided in the wall element, preferably by passing through said mounting orifice (23) in a direction defining a longitudinal axis (X) of the first valve (3); - a second valve (4) making it possible to close, in a closed position, the second passage (22);- wherein the first valve (3) is a non-return valve whose closure element (30) is movable, under the effect of a pressure exerted sufficiently on the closure element (30) to overcome a restoring force of a restoring element (7), preferably an elastic restoring element, located on the first side, and wherein the guide (5) is part of the second valve (4) by being movable, preferably axially, through a passage (03) formed by the first valve (3), in order to allow a closure end (40), provided in the second valve (4) and located on a second side opposite the first side with respect to the plate (2), to move away from the second passage (22) in the event of a vacuum in the housing (B).;

2. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the first valve (3) comprises or consists of: - sealing means (Jl, Jl') for contact with the plate (2); and - a structural part delimiting the passage of the first valve for the guide (5) and carrying the sealing means (Jl, Jl'), and in which the guide (5) is in the form of a rod extending on either side of the structural part and serving as a fixing point for the return element (7), opposite the closure end (40).

3. Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, in which the return element (7), with elastic return effect, is: - coupled to the guide (5) and to a support portion (32) provided on the first valve (3); - provided with a spring placed entirely outside the housing and configured to push the first valve (3) against the plate (2).

4. Arrangement according to claim 3, in which the elastic return element (7) is interposed, preferably by being sandwiched, between: - the support portion (32), annular and designed as an end of the first valve remote from the plate (2); and - a fixing portion (5a) provided in the guide (5) opposite the closure end (40) to retain the elastic return element (7) against the support portion (32).

5. Arrangement according to claim 4, in which the fixing portion (5a) has a notch (F5) allowing, after insertion of the guide (5) into the mounting orifice and into the passage (03) formed by the first valve (3), to attach the elastic return element (7) to a portion of the guide (5) which is axially projecting relative to the support portion (32), by housing and axially locking one end of the elastic return element (7).

6. Arrangement according to claim 3, 4 or 5, in which the support portion (32) constitutes a radial portion of the first valve (3) inscribed in a virtual cylinder inside which are located one or more openings which constitute the second passage (22).

7. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the first valve (3) carries sealing means (Jl, Jl') to enable at least one sealed annular contact (C1, C2) to be made against the plate (2), so as to surround the first passage (21) by a sealing lip (L) which is thinned towards its annular free end, and in which the first side corresponds to an outer side relative to the housing (B), so that the first valve (3) is provided on the outside of the plate (2) to close the first passage (21) from the outside.

8. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, in which a tubular part (31) of the first valve (3) has an outlet axially opposite the plate (2) to allow the guide (5) to emerge from the passage (03), in which the first valve (3) carries, on a rigid radial portion (30a) of the valve which surrounds the tubular part (31), two an- annular (Jl, Jl') one of which is comparatively closer to the longitudinal axis (X) than the other and has a fixing end distant from the plate (2) and engaged in a hollowing or thinning, preferably in the form of an annular groove (R3) or a shoulder (300) provided in said radial portion (30a), in which the other seal surrounds said radial portion (30a), and in which the tubular part (31) and the radial portion (30a) are connected and form part of the same part made of plastic material.

9. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the second passage (22) and the first passage (21) are separated from each other by an annular portion of the plate (2) which defines a seat zone (ZS), preferably annular, on which, in said closed position, a seal (J2) carried by the second valve (4) rests.

10. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the wall element (2) is made in one piece and comprises at least one slot (020) in the shape of a "C" extending over an angular sector greater than or equal to 55°, preferably with a circular arc geometry, and in which said at least one slot (020) constitutes all or part of the first passage (21).

11. Method for assembling a ventilation arrangement for a battery housing (B), the method comprising the steps essentially consisting of: - engaging, through a mounting orifice (23) formed in a plate (2) of a wall element of the housing (B), a guide (5) having a first retaining end and integral with a second retaining end not inserted into the mounting orifice (23), so that the guide (5) has a male section located on a first side which is, relative to the plate (2), opposite the second retaining end; - coupling a first valve (3) to the plate (2), by arranging sealing means (Jl, Jl') on the first valve (3) in order to allow the sealed closure, on said first side in a closed configuration, of a first passage distinct from the mounting orifice and also provided on the plate;- during a first phase of the coupling of the first valve (3), insert the male section of the guide (5) through a passage (03) formed by a; female section of the first valve (3), such that the first valve (3) is carried by the guide (5) and preferably centered around it, while the second retaining end forms a closing end (40) of a second valve (4) which includes the guide (5); - during a second phase of the coupling of the first valve (3), locking the closing configuration of the first valve (3), by installing on the first side a return element (7) arranged to exert a return force against the first valve (3) in order to allow the latter to function as a non-return valve, the return element (7) being connected to the first retaining end forming an accessible fixing portion (5a) of the male section so as to oppose a movement of the guide (5) in the direction of a second side of the plate opposite the first side; knowing that the plate (2) is further provided with a second passage (22) selectively closed by the closing end (40) of the second valve (4), the first passage (21) and the second passage (22) each being able to establish a fluid communication, one for a gaseous exhaust and the other for a gaseous supply, between an interior of the housing (B) and the exterior.

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