ARRANGEMENT WITH DOUBLE-WAY VALVE FOR VENTILATING A BATTERY BOX AND ASSEMBLY METHOD

Abstract

The ventilation arrangement (1) includes an annular connector (2) engaging an opening (O) of a battery case, defining a ventilation channel (C2). Assembly is simple, enabled by fixing an annular seal on the connector and mounting a cover (3) on an annular body (20) of the connector by interlocking to surround this body (20) and cover the channel (C2). A sealed annular contact (C4) between the cover and the body is thus obtained, while the axial interlocking position of the cover (3) is locked by a deformable locking member (104) positioned so as to:- surround an overlapping zone between an insertion portion of the connector and the cover (3), engaging against the connector, and- be able to deform to unlock the interlocking of the cover when the overpressure in the channel (C2) exceeds a threshold. Figure for abstract: Figure 1

Description

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

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

[0002] It is known to use air vent systems for batteries. These systems require the ability to release overpressure gas into the housing. Venting in the incoming 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 housing. The cover carries a membrane associated with a movable support, which lifts in response to a build-up of pressure inside the housing. Venting is carried out in two modes: one by default allowed by the permeability of the membrane, the other emergency which frees a large passage section for the escape of air. The build-up of pressure beyond a predetermined threshold (overpressure threshold) makes it possible to overcome the force of a helical spring which biases the membrane and its support towards a seating area of ​​the base.

[0004] With this type of safety, if the battery continues to operate in a defective state or corresponding to thermal runaway, the massive ventilation can limit or prevent irreversible damage to the battery and possibly serious injuries, for example in the event of a fire. The assembly required in DE 102019100085 A1 is, however, quite complex and can also be cumbersome.

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

[0006] The present disclosure improves the situation.

[0007] For this purpose, there is provided a ventilation arrangement for a battery box (power supply box), 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 fluid communication, one for a gaseous exhaust and the other for a gaseous supply, between an interior of the housing and the exterior; - a first valve for closing the first passage by a closing element located on a first side relative to the plate, the first valve being carried and / or guided by a guide (for example by being mounted movably on this guide) which passes through a mounting orifice provided in the wall element, preferably by passing through said mounting orifice in a direction defining a longitudinal axis of the first valve; - a second valve for closing, in a closing position, the second passage; - wherein the first valve is a non-return valve whose closure element is movable, under the effect of a pressure exerted sufficiently on the closure 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 closure end, provided in the second valve and located on a second side opposite the first side with respect to the plate, to move away from the second passage in the event of a vacuum in the housing.

[0008] Thanks to these arrangements, a two-way valve is obtained which is simple to assemble and limits the number of parts. The second valve may constitute a non-return valve in the opposite direction to the first valve. The return element may advantageously be like the two valves to urge the respective closure members towards their closed position. Optionally, the arrangement may be without a valve body and / or all the components of the arrangement constituting this two-way valve may be movable along the longitudinal axis, with the exception of the wall element (which may be flat, extending substantially in a plane).

[0009] The second valve may have a simple structure, for example consisting of a rigid part in the general shape of a T (with a widened end / forming the closure end) as seen in longitudinal section, with an annular seal secured to the closure end of this part. As seen in a longitudinal section plane, the mounting orifice may have a section wider than a maximum radial extension of the opening(s) constituting the second passage

[0010] The wall element may form part of the housing or complement the housing by being capable of (hermetically) covering an opening in the housing, possibly by being mounted in this opening. The wall element may consist of a flat piece, possibly of in thickness less than or equal to a longitudinal dimension of the seal(s) carried by the first valve (dimension measured in 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 valve is flat and compact.

[0011] In construction examples of the arrangement, one or more of the following arrangements are provided: - the arrangement can be formed as a cover of the housing, - the guide is part of a part of the second valve which makes up the closure end, this part optionally being narrower / less wide than a support portion of the first valve on which the return element which is elastically deformable rests. - the guide extends in a straight line. - the guide includes a hollow part to allow a connection of the recall element, by housing a portion (support portion) or end of the recall 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 the opening(s) constituting the second passage are located. - the first valve comprises or consists of: sealing means for contact with the plate; and a structural part delimiting the central passage of the first valve for the guide and carrying the sealing means, the guide being in the form of a rod extending on either side of the structural part and serving as a fixing point for the return element, opposite the closure 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 provided with a spring placed entirely outside the housing. - the spring is configured to push the first valve against the plate. - the return element, by reaction to a pressure 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 so as to keep the second passage closed by the second valve by default.

[0012] In mounting forms of the arrangement, with (typically axial) support 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 support portion, annular and designed as an end of the first valve remote 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 closure 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 orifice and into the passage (for example a central passage) formed by the first valve, to attach / maintain the elastic return element on a portion of the guide which is axially projecting relative to the support portion. - the notch is used to house and axially block one end of the elastic return element.

[0013] A pre-assembled design, with both flaps mounted on the same plate, allows the arrangement to be effectively secured to or covered over a large opening in a housing, preferably providing a gas-tight seal in an environment subject to vibration. This is particularly the case when the battery housing is mounted in a motor vehicle, for example an automobile or other rolling stock.

[0014] The elastic return element, for example in the form of a simple helical spring, may perform a tie rod function in order 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 of the spring and adapted to fit into the notch of the guide.

[0015] The features set out in the following paragraphs may, optionally, be implemented, independently of one another or in combination with one another: - the first valve carries sealing means to enable at least one sealed annular contact to be made 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 produced by a sealing lip which is thinned towards its free annular end. - the first side corresponds to an exterior side relative to the housing, so that the first valve is provided on the exterior of the plate to close the first passage from the exterior. - the sealing lip may project radially outwards while 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 outlet 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 the 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 distant from the plate and engaged in a hollow 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 are part of the same part made of or based on plastic material. - the second passage and the first passage may be separated from each other by an annular portion of the plate which defines a seat zone, preferably annular, on which a seal carried by the second valve rests in said closed position.

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

[0017] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a ventilation arrangement for battery housing(s), the method comprising the steps essentially consisting of: - engaging, 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 into the mounting hole, so that the guide has a male section located on a first side which is, relative to the plate, opposite the second retaining end; - coupling a first valve to the plate, by providing sealing means on the first valve in order to allow the sealed closure, on said first side in a closed configuration, of a first passage separate from the mounting orifice and also provided on the plate; - during a first phase of the coupling of the first valve, insert the male section of the guide through a passage (central passage) formed by a female section or tubular portion of the first valve, such that the first valve is carried by the guide and preferably centered around it, while the second retaining end forms a sealing end of a second valve which includes the guide; - during a second phase of the coupling of the first valve, locking the closing configuration of the first valve, by installing on the first side a return element (preferably with an elastic return effect) arranged to exert a return force against the first valve in order to allow the latter to function as a non-return valve, the return element being connected to the first retaining end forming an accessible fixing portion of the male section (typically external with respect 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 the first side; knowing that the plate is further provided with a second passage selectively closed by the closing end of the second valve, the first passage and the second passage 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 and the exterior.

[0018] The assembly is thus rapid, compatible with a two-piece structure sliding relative to each other and with the use of a single return element common to the two valves, which can be a simple elastic return element (typically made from a single piece). This return element can also make it possible to lock the two valves. In some options, the biasing element may include one or more magnetic portions, for example allowing this biasing element to bias / return the first retaining end towards 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 a 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 in a robust manner, without risk of detachment of either of the valves, and makes it possible to limit the number of step(s) of installation of the arrangement on the battery housing component. A weld, a simple screwing or a bayonet connection can make it possible to obtain the seal between the wall element, if necessary by using a connection seal, while the first valve and the second valve will each remain in their configuration of sealing the passageways corresponding to laying the plate. Brief description of the drawings

[0021] Other characteristics, details and advantages will appear on reading the detailed description below, and on analyzing the attached drawings, in which: [Fig.l] shows, in sectional view, a ventilation unit according to a first embodiment capable of being mounted, directly or indirectly, on a wall of a battery box. [Fig.2A] is a perspective view from the inside of the unit shown in [Fig.l], illustrating the compact integration of two respective cover valves on one and the other of the two sides of the plate, in order to close corresponding passages for opposite circulations through the plate. [Fig.2B] is a perspective view of the closure part of one of the valves of the ventilation arrangement, before the installation of a contact seal with the plate which projects from a closure face of this valve in the mounted state to allow separation of a radially external sub-zone communicating with the interior of the housing from another radially internal sub-zone and which can only communicate with the interior 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.l], showing a ventilation unit according to a second embodiment, using a sealing lip for the separation between the two sub-zones. [Fig.4A] shows in section a configuration of the ventilation unit of [Fig.3] in the event of overpressure in the battery housing(s). [Fig.4B] shows in a sectional view a configuration of the same ventilation unit for a case of depression in the battery box(es). [Fig.5] illustrates a pair of annular seals which may be carried in the sealing portion of the second valve. [Fig.6] illustrates an example of mounting the ventilation unit, which is here that of [Fig.3], on an external face of a wall of the battery box. [Fig.7] is a partially exploded view of a ventilation unit including a two-way valve, before the second flap of this valve is installed. [Fig.8] illustrates a mounting variant for obtaining the ventilation unit, according to a third embodiment. Description of the embodiments

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

[0023] With reference to Figures 1, 3, 6 and 8, there is shown a ventilation unit that can be delivered as a pre-assembled unit, ready to close an opening O of a battery housing (see [Fig.6]) by being mounted typically on the side of an external face of a shell or plate P of the housing B. In the following, this pre-assembled unit is called ventilation arrangement 1. In options, arrangement 1 has a peripheral support part surrounding a contact plate 2 with two flaps 3, 4, the peripheral part including or consisting of a connection element provided with fixing means, for example formed as insertion / retaining tabs for holding in position on the battery housing.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 orifice 23.

[0024] In the examples illustrated, the first valve 3 has a direction of elongation along a longitudinal axis which can pass through the mounting orifice 23. The first valve 23 may have a closure portion 30 located in a zone Z2 which is external relative to the housing B. Such a closure portion 30 extends transversely relative 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 sealed 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 covered in a sealed manner by the first valve. The second valve 4 has a closure end 40 located in the zone ZI which is internal relative to the plate 2. Such a closure end is connected to a rod or similar section forming a guide 5 which passes through the plate 2 through the mounting orifice 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 insertable into the mounting orifice 23 when it is made in one piece with the guide 5 and possibly with a radial portion constituting the closure end 40.

[0026] In the case of figures 1, 2A and 3 as well as in [Fig.8], the case of a plate 2 which is substantially flat at least in the region of contact with the closure end 40 and the closure element 30 is illustrated. In variants, a break may be present in the plate, for example between the first passage 21 and the second passage 22 without this functionally modifying the arrangement 1.

[0027] As seen in Figures 1, 3 and 8 in particular, the closure end 40 may be sized to be narrower (with a thus reduced outer diameter) compared to the closure element 30 (with a larger outer diameter). In this case, a generally concentric arrangement of the openings may be adopted in the plate 2, with: - the mounting opening 23 crossed by the longitudinal axis A which cuts the plate 2 perpendicularly; - with a spacing or range of spacings from the orifice 23, one or more openings forming the second passage 22; and - with another spacing or other range of spacings with respect 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 closure element is perforated to form axial access to the second passage 22.

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

[0029] It is understood that a first non-return valve 3 and a second non-return valve 4 are thus formed, which respectively cover the first passage 21 and the second passage 22 only on the side by which one as the other can move back and thus move away from the plate 2. In the examples illustrated, the first passage 21 establishes a fluid communication for a gaseous escape in the displaced / retracted state of the first valve 3, while the second passage 22 establishes a fluid communication for a gaseous supply in the displaced / retracted state of the second valve 4. In certain variant embodiments, the opposite can possibly be provided with the second valve 4 located in the external 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 in abutment, by using one or more sealing members J1, J1', J2 against the plate 2, by using a return element 7 which can: - exert a return force on the first valve 3 to return the closure element 30 towards / against the plate, typically by a thrust exerted on a support portion 32 provided on the first valve 3 opposite the closure element 30; and - be interposed between the fixing portion 5a and the first valve 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 following 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 closure element 30 to overcome the return force of the return element 7 which may be a spring or similar part. Since the guide 5 is directly slidably mounted in a tubular part 31 of the first valve 3, the second valve 4 can be movable (axially) in a manner compatible with an absence of displacement of the first valve 3 while being movable. This second valve 4 can be maintained in a mounted state inserted in the mounting hole 23 using the fixing portion 5a which is engaged against a locking member which can be wider than the dimension / width of the mounting hole.

[0032] In the case of [Fig. 1], this locking member is formed by the return element 7, typically made in one piece. The closing end 40, provided in the second valve 4 on a second side (opposite the first side), can move away from the second passage 22 in the event of a vacuum in the housing B as illustrated in the case of [Fig.4B], thanks to a degree of freedom in translation allowed by the return element or similar locking member / means capable of pushing the first valve 3 while retaining the fixing portion 5a with a clearance in 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 the two valves, in the event of pressure balance on either side of the plate 2.

[0033] Whatever the design and the method of integration of the return element, in particular with 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 passage 21 and the second passage 22 are located.

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

[0035] The plate 2 may have openings distributed in a portion of substantially constant thickness. While the mounting orifice 23 may be of circular section, the opening(s) of the first passage 21 and of the second passage 22, respectively, may have varied shapes, preferably without exceeding one centimeter as regards the radial extension of the openings.

[0036] The wall element, which can be made in one piece, comprises for example at least one “C” shaped slot 020 extending over an angular sector greater than or equal to 55°, preferably with a circular arc geometry, which can form an opening of the first passage 21. Other geometric shapes can be used, preferably by limiting the radial extension of the openings or slots. In the non-limiting case of figures 2A and 4A, two slots 020 in an arc of a circle constitute the first passage 21. A single annular seal J1 can thus surround these two slots while another annular seal J1', concentric with respect to the seal J1, 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' may project from a sealing face F3. At least in a continuous annular region which faces the openings or slots 020 of the first passage 21, such a face F3 may not be covered by a seal - with the exception of 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 may be contracted by having an axial extension h7 smaller than its axial extension H7 obtained by default, that is to say in the locked position with pressure balance between the zones Z1, Z2.

[0038] More generally, it may be provided that all the openings of the second passage 22 and that(s) of the first passage 21 are separated from each other by an annular portion of the non-perforated plate 2 which defines a seat zone ZS (visible in [Fig.2A]), preferably annular, on which, in the closed position of the second valve 4, the seal J2 carried by the closing end 40 rests, typically at the periphery or in a margin zone of this end 40. The sealed annular contact C4 of the seal J2 is maintained using the return effect of the element 7, insofar as the latter is kept 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 construction

[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 part 31 extending around a central hollow forming all or part of the passage 03 for the guide 5 provided in the second valve 4. The tubular part 31 may extend around the longitudinal axis A between the closure element 30 (which extends the central hollow to allow the passage of the guide 5) and a support portion 32 for the return element 7. The support 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 part 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 or these seals may here be the only complementary components of the structural part to obtain the first valve 3. The tubular part 31 may be relatively short, so that the first valve 3 is shorter than it is wide (with an external diameter of the closure element which thus exceeds 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 configuration relative to the central passage 03.

[0041] As can be seen in particular in [Fig.2B], the innermost seal J1' carried by the enlarged radial portion constituting the closure element 30, can be fixed, for example by being mounted in a tight fit (inserted / pressed in force, typically) in an annular groove R3, which can have a substantially constant depth (groove R3 here hollowed out in the thickness of the radial portion 30a). This seal J1' can have a generally rectangular or square section. This seal J1' can extend around an openwork portion of the radial portion which forms an access to the second passage 22, making it possible to separate the outer zone Z2 from the zone Z1' adapted to be put at the same pressure as the internal pressure of housing B, thanks to the first passage 21.

[0042] The first valve 3 can thus, by pressing 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 (further from the longitudinal axis A). The production of a first valve 3 with two separate seals J1, J1' makes it possible to have, at the level of the valve face F3 opposite the plate 2, a large annular surface subjected to the internal pressure. Such an annular surface is larger compared to the opening section / section of the first passage 21 alone. Thus, the required pressure threshold beyond which the thrust force will be sufficient to move the first valve 3 back, overcoming the return force of the element 7, can be a relatively low threshold to avoid an emergency degassing situation.

[0043] When the first passage comprises or consists of two slots 020 in an arc of a circle, provision may be made to arrange these slots 020 closer to the contact zone C2 than to the contact zone C1 or substantially halfway between these two zones C1, C2.In all cases, it is permitted to evacuate the excess pressure in the housing by lifting the sealing means Jl, Jl' while ensuring, by a mainly ascending circulation effect in the zone Zl', that the first valve 3 is maintained at a correctly raised level in the event of an 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' may be mounted by solidarization to a rigid radial portion 30a of the first valve 3, projecting axially relative to this portion 30a. One of these two seals Jl, which is the widest, has a lip L (see also [Fig.7]) making it possible to produce an annular contact C1 against the plate 2 which is a peripheral contact (around the zone Zl' in particular), distal from the longitudinal axis A. A symmetrical construction of the first valve 3 around the axis A may be used. The other seal Jl', less wide, may also provide an annular axial sealing contact C2. On the plate 2, the second passage 22 can be interposed radially between the contact C2 and the mounting orifice 23. A thinned structure of the lip L can be chosen to facilitate bending 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 one end or fixing portion of this seal Jl'. fixing portion of this seal J1' can form a cavity or groove Gl' facing radially on an external side of the seal Jl', into which penetrates a shouldered part 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 closure element 30 of the first valve 3 is designed wider than the closure end 40 of the second valve 4. Each valve 3 and 4 may have a seal forming an outer periphery of the closure part 30 or 40.

[0047] Each seal J1, J1', deformable and for example made of elastomer, is attached to the structural part constituting the valve 3, with for example each attachment of the seals J1, J1' allowed by a portion 38 or deformable attachment end, mounted by deformation, typically by being retained by / against an annular engagement edge (knowing that the radial portion 30a includes a crown forming two circumferential edges allowing such engagement, respectively for the seal J1 and the seal J1'). The portion 38 may have a C-shaped section capable of pinching the corresponding engagement edge of the radial portion 30a, this engagement edge being able to correspond to a thinning, so that the face of the portion 38 oriented opposite the plate 2 is level / flush with respect to the axial face of the radial portion 30a oriented in the same direction.The axial face may be substantially planar, but with its formed bridges 30b projecting from such an axial face, as discussed below.

[0048] When two lip seals J1, J1' are attached to two engagement edges arranged in an annular manner (typically concentric) 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 well illustrated for example in [Fig.4A]. In such a case, the tubular part 31 and the radial portion 30a can be connected / connected, rigidly, by bridges 30b which are axially offset from each engagement edge, extending, relative to this or these annular engagement edges, further / behind the plate 2. The bridges 30b can be part of a molded part, coming from the same material as the tubular part 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 crown-shaped 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 connected axially to the radial portion 30a, in an intermediate zone between the inner engagement 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) Jl, Jl' of the first valve 3 can rest on an annular seat zone provided on the plate 2, around the second passage 22 without the movement / positioning of the first valve 3 being able to block an external gas flow 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 axially into 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. Here one or more seals Jl, Jl' are illustrated which are added or integrated into the closure element 30, in order to produce in particular a sealed annular contact for a gas-tight contact. In variants, a common seal can be produced to perform the same function, making it possible to separate the first passage 21 from the outer zone Z2.

[0051] It has been described so far that the seal J1 or J1' carried by the closure element 30 is axially biased against the plate 2 integrated / secured 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 closure 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 visible in [Fig. 8], the first valve 3 may have one or more structural differences. For example, the tubular part 31 may, by the hollow space that it delimits, not only form a passage for the guide 5 but also be sufficiently wide to receive at least partially a spring or return element 7 capable of pushing by default the closure element 30 into its position of closing the first passage 21. In this case, the support portion 32 may include an internal shoulder zone or an internal relief part, on which the return element can bear, here illustrated as an elastic return element 7, for example a helical spring arranged in a compressed state.One end of the spring engages against the fixing portion 5a of the guide 5, so that this spring is interposed in the compressed state between the fixing portion 5a and the support portion 32 here located near the closing element 30. This type of design can make the arrangement 1 even more compact.

[0053] In options, the valve 4 which includes the guide 5 can form a stop for the bearing portion 32, which prevents the spring 7 from crushing the seal(s) J1, J1' too much. This case with a stop can result from a design with an external shoulder made in the guide 5, so that the mounting orifice 23 is slightly widened compared to a hole for the guide 5, formed as a through hole provided substantially in the center of the bearing portion 32.

[0054] Independently of the precise design chosen for the structural part of the first valve 3, it may also be provided to produce the sealing contacts C1, C2 by a technical seal with two lips, which can be retained in a rail or a groove provided in the radial portion 30a of the closure element 30. [Fig. 8] illustrates a non-limiting example of a seal with two lips making it possible to close the first passage 21 on its own. The seal J1 is offset radially further outward than the perforated portion of the closure element 30, so that gas G present in the external environment of the housing closed by the arrangement 1. Example(s) of the second valve

[0055] The second valve 4 is designed with a similar rod or guide 5 which 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 closing end 40, so that the second valve section is substantially T-shaped, as seen in a longitudinal plane. The central axis of the second valve 4 may coincide with the longitudinal axis A of the first valve 3. The male section extends in practice on the first side of the plate 2 or outer side (with the zone Z2).

[0056] As visible in particular in figures 7 and 8 in particular, the fixing portion 5a may have a slot, hole or notch F5 allowing, after insertion of the guide 5 into the mounting orifice 23 and into the passage 03 formed by the first valve 3, to attach / maintain the return element 7 on a portion of the guide 5 which is axially projecting relative to the bearing portion 32. The notch F5 may optionally have a curved region adjacent to the radial outlet of the notch, providing for an anchoring end of the return element 7 a guide towards a pushed-in position (for example with the anchoring end which reaches or is proximal to the axis A) in which this element 7 is retained axially by a bottom of the notch F5 so that it is kept constrained, for example kept 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 of which a transverse end, for example with a wire structure, can serve for the axial retention of the assembly formed by the return element 7 and the first valve 3. This end of the return element 7 is for example movable in the direction of the longitudinal axis A in response to axial compression or 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, in particular in response to a thrust force exerted from the first side towards the second side, typically in the event of depression in the interior zone ZI of the housing. Incoming ventilation is then permitted as long as the elastic return element 7 remains compressed, due to a separation of 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', both 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 withdrawal 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 valve 3 remaining fixed / stationary, the movement of the closing end 40 of the valve 4 to move away from the plate 2 corresponds to a movement of the fixing portion 5a closer to the support portion 32, so that the return element 7 is pushed and compressed proportionally, and typically identically, to the movement of the fixing portion 5.

[0060] The closure end 40 may delimit a hollow space, surrounded by the circumferential seal J2, so 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 outer zone Z2. This pressure equality results from the fluid 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 an area covered by the closure end 40 in the closure configuration of the second valve 4. Here, it is provided that the seal J2 is spaced radially outwards relative to the position of the opening(s) forming the second passage 22, so that the zone 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 the two 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 closure end 40, when it is located on the inside of the housing B, can be sized to have 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 sizing can be changed by widening the closure end 40 (then located on the outside) and / or by reducing the face F3 of the closure part 30, to also obtain a situation where the opening threshold for the gases escaping from the housing is comparatively smaller. lower than the opening threshold in the direction entering the housing. Assembly of the arrangement to obtain a two-way valve

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

[0063] A relative rotation between the parts constituting the tubular part 31 and the guide 5 may be permitted, at least at the start of the guiding. This absence of rotational indexing may constitute an advantage during assembly, with a view to increasing the production rate of pre-assembled ventilation units / arrangements. In a variant, it is also possible to provide rotational indexing of the first valve, typically with anti-rotation means. For example, the two valves 3 and 4 are assembled by engaging an internal relief of the tubular part 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 part. Where appropriate, a combination of different reliefs may be provided for this guiding with rotational indexing.

[0064] To obtain the two-way valve with the adequate mobility of the two flaps 3, 4, the assembly method uses a wall element including the plate 2 with these three kinds of openings 21, 22, 23 and can present the following steps: - provide each of the valves 3, 4, by providing sealing means J1, J1' on the first valve 3 and a sealing gasket J2 on the second valve 4; - inserting the guide 5 of the second valve 4 into the plate 2 through the mounting orifice 23, so as to have the male section on a first side of the plate, while the closing end 40 which is wider than the mounting orifice and than 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 against the plate on the first side, in order to allow the first passage 21 to be sealed, knowing that: during a first phase of the 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 plays the role of female section of the first valve 3, so that the first valve 3 is carried by this guide 5 while being typically centered around it; during a second phase of the coupling of the first valve 3, the closing configuration of the first valve 3 is locked by the installation of the return element 7 whose return force can be exerted against the first valve 3 by simple pushing 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 assembly allows the first valve 3 and the second valve to each function as a non-return valve. The second passage 22 is selectively closed by the closing end 40 of the second valve 4 by being distributed in line with axial openings 35 provided in the valve 3 closer to the axis A than the seal J1' or similar seal part serving to separate the outer zone Z2 from the zone Z1'. An arrangement of the support portion in an umbrella or in axial coverage of the axial openings 35 of the valve 3 can optionally be adopted. Generally speaking, it is understood that the first passage 21 and the second passage 22 can each establish a fluid 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 may be provided by the bearing portion 32, which may constitute a radial portion of the first valve 3, in order to limit the risk of external dirt reaching the closure element 30 when the first valve is mounted on the outside of the plate 2, outside an interior volume of the housing B. For example, the bearing portion 32 may be inscribed in a virtual cylinder (for example a cylinder of revolution around the longitudinal axis A) inside which are located one or more openings which constitute the second passage 22. Where appropriate, the axial spaces or openings 35 formed in the connection zone of the closure 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 options, this type of cover can be disengaged as soon as the pressure on the inner side / zone ZI (side of the internal volume of the battery housing) exceeds a threshold.

[0068] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, only by way of example, but it encompasses all the variants that may be envisaged by those skilled in the art without departing 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 the second valve may have a general split shape, star-shaped or horseshoe-shaped for example, without a continuously rounded periphery.

[0070] Furthermore, the expression battery case must be understood in a general sense, the case being able to contain one or more groups of accumulators capable of providing 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 valve 3 axially surmounting (from above) the plate 2, so that the axis X of the opening O is here vertical, 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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