Vent with relief valve

Abstract

To provide a vent assembly capable of avoiding an excess pressure in an enclosure.SOLUTION: A vent assembly has a housing defining a cavity, a first end part, a second end part, and a coupling structure facing the second end part. A mounting surface is arranged in the cavity and between the first end part and the second end part, and defines a valve opening part and a vent opening part. A vent is connected to the mounting surface across the vent opening part, and an umbrella valve is arranged in a sealable manner on the mounting surface across the valve opening part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present technology relates generally to vents, and more particularly to vents with integrated relief valve functionality. [Background technology]

[0002] Protective vents are typically used to allow pressure equalization between the casing and the environment outside the casing. The vents may use water-, dust-, and oil-resistant membranes to allow gas pressure to equalize while preventing liquid and solid contaminants from passing through. However, in some technical applications, pressure inside the casing can rise rapidly, and the protective vents are insufficient to achieve equilibrium quickly enough to prevent damage to components within the casing or the casing itself. For example, in a battery casing with multiple cells, if a single cell explodes, the resulting pressure within the battery casing can cause damage to other cells within the casing or can cause the casing to burst under high pressure. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] The technology disclosed herein relates to a vent having a relief valve. In some examples, the vent is configured to allow passive venting of gas between a casing and an external environment under normal operating conditions. However, if a pressure spike occurs within the casing, the relief valve allows gas to bypass the vent. In some exemplary implementations, the technology disclosed herein is used in a battery casing.

[0004] The present technology can be more fully understood and appreciated in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1]1 is an exemplary vent having a relief valve consistent with implementations of the technology disclosed herein. [Figure 2] 2 is an exemplary vent of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 1 is another exemplary vent having a relief valve consistent with implementations of the technology disclosed herein. [Figure 4] 4 is an exemplary vent of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] 1 is another exemplary vent having a relief valve consistent with implementations of the technology disclosed herein. [Figure 6] 6 is an exemplary vent of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] 1 is another exemplary vent having a relief valve consistent with implementations of the technology disclosed herein. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the vent of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front view of the cross section shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary vent having a relief valve consistent with certain implementations of the technology disclosed herein. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary vent having a relief valve consistent with certain implementations of the technology disclosed herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In various embodiments, the technology combines the functionality of a protective vent with that of a one-way relief valve: the vent allows the enclosure to vent during normal operating conditions, but in the event of a high-pressure event within the enclosure, such as an explosive release of gas or a relatively large temperature rise in a relatively short period of time, the assembly can open to allow a higher, unrestricted flow of air and avoid overpressure within the enclosure that would otherwise cause damage to the enclosure's internal components.

[0007] Figure 1 is an exemplary assembly 10 having a vent and relief valve consistent with implementations of the technology disclosed herein. Figure 2 shows the assembly 10 of Figure 1 in an alternative state. The assembly 10 is generally configured to couple to a casing 40 and accommodate gas flow from the ambient environment into and out of the casing 40 under normal operation. In the event of a high-pressure event within the casing 40, the assembly 10 is configured to allow gas to escape the casing 40 relatively quickly by bypassing the assembly 10.

[0008] The assembly 10 includes a vent 20 and a connecting structure 30. The vent 20 is generally positioned in fluid communication with an opening 42 in the casing 40. The vent 20 is configured to allow gas to enter and exit the casing 40 from the environment outside the casing 40 by flowing through the vent 20. In some embodiments, the vent 20 is configured to prevent particles from entering the casing 40. In some embodiments, the vent 20 is also configured to prevent liquids from entering the casing 40. The vent 20 can be constructed from a variety of different materials and combinations of materials. In various embodiments, the vent 20 incorporates a breathable membrane such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or other types of breathable membranes. The vent 20 can be a laminate or composite including a breathable membrane such as PTFE laminated to a woven or non-woven support layer. In some embodiments, the vent 20 is a woven or non-woven fabric. The vent 20 can be constructed from a hydrophobic material or can be treated to exhibit hydrophobic properties. In one example, the vent 20 is a hydrophobic woven or nonwoven fabric. In some embodiments, the vent 20 has a support ring that supports the periphery of the vent material.

[0009] The connecting structure 30 is configured to connect the vent 20 to the casing 40 under normal pressure conditions. When the pressure in the casing 40 rises above a threshold value T, the connecting structure 30 releases to allow gas to escape the casing 40 by bypassing the vent 20, as shown in FIG. 2 . The connecting structure 30 is typically an adhesive. The connecting structure 30 can be a pressure-sensitive adhesive. In some embodiments, the connecting structure 30 is a double-sided adhesive tape.

[0010] The casing 40 is generally configured to house components. In one example, the casing 40 is a housing for battery cells, and in another example, the casing 40 is for other types of systems.

[0011] FIG. 3 is another exemplary vent having a relief valve consistent with implementations of the technology disclosed herein. FIG. 4 is the exemplary vent of FIG. 3 with the relief valve in an alternative position. Assembly 100 is generally configured to couple to casing 140 and accommodate gas flow into and out of casing 140 from the ambient environment under normal operation. Upon the occurrence of a high-pressure event within casing 140, assembly 100 is configured to allow gas to escape casing 140 relatively quickly by bypassing assembly 100. Assembly 100 includes vent housing 110, spring 120, and vent 130.

[0012] The vent 130 and casing 140 are generally consistent with those described above in the discussion of FIG. 1 . The vent housing 110 is generally configured to couple to the casing 140. In some embodiments, the vent housing 110 has a bonding surface 114 configured to couple to the casing 140. The bonding surface 114 can be bonded to the casing 140 with an adhesive in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the bonding surface 114 can define a mating structure configured to mate with a corresponding structure defined by the casing 140. In some embodiments, the bonding surface 114 of the vent housing 110 is welded to the casing 140. The vent housing 110 can be constructed from a variety of different materials and combinations of materials. In some embodiments, the vent housing 110 is molded plastic. In other embodiments, the vent housing 110 is metal.

[0013] The vent housing 110 is generally configured to position the vent 130 over an opening 142 defined by the casing 140. The vent housing 110 is secured to a first end 122 of a spring 120, and the vent 130 is secured to a second end 124 of the spring 120. The spring 120 is biased in compression between the vent housing 110 and the casing 140, such that the spring 120 couples the vent 130 to the casing 140 around the opening 142 under normal pressure conditions. When the pressure within the casing 140 suddenly increases beyond a threshold value T, pressure is applied to the second side 134 of the vent 130 counteracting the pressure applied by the spring 120 to the first side 132 of the vent, which may translate at least a portion of the vent 130 away from the surface of the casing 140 and compress at least a portion of the spring 120. Pressurized gas from inside the casing 140 can escape the casing 140 and bypass the vent 130. In some embodiments, when the pressure within the casing 140 returns to below the threshold T, the spring 120 returns the vent 130 to position over the opening 142 in the casing 140.

[0014] In some embodiments, spring 120 can be a helical coil constructed from metal or plastic. In some embodiments, spring 120 can be an elastomeric material, such as a foam material. In some embodiments, spring 120 can also be multiple coils.

[0015] In some, but not all, embodiments, the vent housing 110 may define an airflow path 112 that facilitates passage of emitted gases from the casing 140 around the vent 130 .

[0016] Figure 5 is another exemplary vent having a relief valve consistent with implementations of the technology disclosed herein. Figure 6 is the exemplary vent of Figure 5 with a high-pressure event occurring within casing 240. Assembly 200 is similar to the previously described assemblies, allowing gas to pass through vent 230 between casing 240 and the environment under normal pressure conditions. When high pressure occurs within casing 240, assembly 200 allows gas from within casing 240 to bypass vent 230.

[0017] Assembly 200 generally includes a coupling structure 210, a spring 220, a hinge 222, and a vent 230. Vent 230 is disposed in fluid communication with an opening 242 defined in a casing 240. Casing 240 and vent 230 are consistent with those previously described herein above.

[0018] The coupling structure 210 is generally configured to couple the assembly 200 to the casing 240. The coupling structure 210 can be configured to receive an adhesive that couples to the casing 240, for example. In some embodiments, the coupling structure 210 defines mating features configured to mate with corresponding features defined by the casing 240. In some embodiments, the coupling structure 210 is coupled to the casing 240 by welding. Other approaches for coupling the coupling structure 210 to the casing 240 can be used reliably as well.

[0019] A hinge 222 couples the vent 230 to the coupling structure 210. A spring 220 presses against a first side 232 of the vent, biasing the vent 230 against the casing 240 around an opening 242 under normal pressure conditions. When the pressure within the casing 240 exceeds a threshold T, gas within the casing 240 presses against a second side 234 of the vent 230 against the spring 220, which translates the vent 230 away from the casing 240 and compresses the spring 220. An opening is then defined between the vent 230 and the casing 240 ( FIG. 6 ), allowing gas within the casing 240 to escape the casing 240 and bypass the vent 230. The hinge defines a translation path for the pivoting vent 230. In various embodiments, when the pressure within the casing 240 returns below the threshold T, the spring 220 is configured to translate the vent 230 about the hinge 222 to its initial position relative to the casing 240 about the opening 242 (FIG. 5).

[0020] Spring 220 may be consistent with the springs described above in the discussion of Figures 3-4. Hinge 222 may have a variety of configurations and generally defines the pivot of vent 230 relative to casing 240.

[0021] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary vent with a relief valve consistent with implementations of the technology disclosed herein. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the vent and casing 370 of Figure 7, and Figure 9 is a perspective view of the cross-section of Figure 8. Like the previous assemblies, this assembly 300 is generally configured to allow gas to pass through the vent 330 between the casing 370 and the environment under normal pressure conditions. In the event of a high-pressure event within the casing 370, the assembly 300 is configured to allow gas to escape the casing 370 by bypassing the vent 330. The assembly 300 generally includes a vent housing 320, a coupling structure 310, a mounting surface 350, a vent 330, and a relief valve 340.

[0022] The vent housing 320 is generally configured to house the vent 330 and the relief valve 340. The vent housing 320 defines a cavity 322, a first end 302, a second end 304, and a connecting structure 310. The vent housing 320 can be constructed from a variety of materials and combinations of materials. In some embodiments, the vent housing 320 is constructed from plastic or metal. In one example, at least a portion of the vent housing 320 is injection-molded plastic. An end cap 324 is coupled to the vent housing 320 toward the first end 302. The end cap 324 can form an integral component with the vent housing 320 in some other embodiments. The cavity 322 is also defined by the end cap 324.

[0023] Mounting surface 350 is generally disposed within cavity 322 between first end 302 and second end 304. Mounting surface 350 is generally configured to receive vent 330 and relief valve 340. Mounting surface 350 can be a single flat surface, or in some other embodiments, the mounting surface can be defined by multiple surfaces that are not necessarily flat. Mounting surface 350 defines vent opening 352 and valve opening 354. Vent opening 352 and valve opening 354 can each be one or more openings defined by mounting surface 350. In various embodiments, mounting surface 350 is a unitary structure with vent housing 320. However, in some other embodiments, mounting surface 350 is defined by a separate component that is coupled to vent housing 320 via a friction fit or through the use of fasteners such as screws.

[0024] Vent 330 is coupled to mounting surface 350 across vent opening 352. Vent 330 is generally configured to allow passive airflow between casing 370 and the surrounding environment while preventing liquids and particles from entering casing 370. Vent 330 is disposed in fluid communication with opening 372 in casing 370. Vent 330 may be bonded to mounting surface 350 with an adhesive. Vent 330 may be constructed from similar materials as the vents described above herein. In this example, vent 330 forms a ring, and vent 330 is bonded to mounting surface 350 with an adhesive disposed adjacent its outer periphery 332 and its inner periphery 334, which may form a seal between vent 330 and mounting surface 350.

[0025] Valve 340 is sealably positioned on mounting surface 350 across valve opening 354. In various embodiments, valve 340 is an umbrella valve. Valve 340 is typically configured to form a seal around valve opening 354 to allow gas to passively vent through vent opening 352 and vent 330 under normal pressure conditions, and upon a pressure spike within casing 370 exceeding threshold T, the pressure displaces umbrella valve 340, releasing it from valve opening 354 and allowing gas to bypass vent 330 and exit casing 370 through valve opening 354. Valve 340 is configured in parallel with vent 330 for airflow between the ambient environment and casing 370.

[0026] Relief valve 340 is typically formed from an elastomeric material. Relief valve 340 is typically a one-way relief valve, although it can be other types of relief valves. Relief valve 340 can be any type of umbrella valve, such as a Belleville valve. In some embodiments, relief valve 340 is configured to re-form a seal around valve opening 354 when pressure within casing 370 returns to a level below pressure threshold T.

[0027] The coupling structure 310 is generally configured to couple the assembly 300 to the casing 370 ( FIG. 8 ) around an opening 372 defined by the casing 370. The coupling structure 310 is defined toward the second end 304 of the vent housing 320. The coupling structure 310 is generally configured to engage with the casing 370. In this example, the coupling structure 310 forms a snap-fit ​​connection with the casing 370. In some other embodiments, the coupling structure 310 forms a mating structure configured to mate with a corresponding structure defined by the casing 370. For example, the coupling structure 310 can define threads configured to be received by the casing 370 around the opening 372. As another example, the coupling structure 310 can define a connector, such as a bayonet connector, that interlocks with the casing 370 around the opening 372. In some embodiments, the coupling structure 310 can be adhesively coupled to the casing 370 around the opening 372.

[0028] In embodiments consistent with this example, seal 312 generally abuts coupling structure 310. Seal 312 is configured to form a seal between assembly 300 and casing 370 when assembly 300 is coupled to casing 370. Seal 312 can be an elastomeric material. In some embodiments, seal 312 is rubber or another gasket or sealing material.

[0029] In examples consistent with this embodiment, vent housing 320 defines opening 326 between the ambient environment and cavity 322 and defines a first fluid flow path between the exterior of vent housing 320 and mounting surface 350 and / or vent 330. Coupling structure 310 also defines a second fluid flow path between the exterior of vent housing 320 and vent 330. In such embodiments, umbrella valve 340 is configured to release from mounting surface 350 when the pressure in the second fluid flow path is between 0.2 psi and 3 psi, and in some embodiments, between 0.5 psi and 1 psi, greater than the pressure in the first fluid flow path.

[0030] Vent housing 320 has an obstruction 358 located between opening 326 and vent 330. Obstruction 358 creates a tortuous path between opening 326 and vent 330, meaning that fluid flowing into opening 326 cannot directly impinge on vent 330. Similarly, obstruction 358 is located between opening 326 and valve 340.

[0031] In examples consistent with this embodiment, the vent 330 and the valve 340 are concentric. While the valve 340 is centered within the vent 330, in some other embodiments, the vent may be centered within the valve. In examples consistent with this embodiment, the vent housing 320 defines a central axis X extending from the first end 302 to the second end 304. The mounting surface 350 is located about the central axis x. Although not fully visible in this view, the valve openings 354 are multiple openings defining a segmented ring about the central axis X. Similarly, the vent openings 352 are multiple openings defining a segmented ring about the central axis X. Additionally, the mounting surface defines a central opening 356 about the central axis X, and the umbrella valve 340 has an extension 342 extending through the central opening 356. The openings 326 defined by the vent housing 320 are a series of radial openings about the central axis X.

[0032] 10 is an exploded view of another exemplary assembly 400 with a vent 430 and a relief valve 440, consistent with certain implementations of the technology disclosed herein. Similar to the previous assemblies, this assembly 400 is generally configured to allow gas to pass through the vent 430 between a casing (not shown here) and the external environment under normal pressure conditions. Upon the occurrence of a high-pressure event within the casing, the assembly 400 is configured to allow gas to escape the casing by bypassing the vent 430. The assembly 400 generally includes a vent housing 420, a mounting surface 450, the vent 430, and a relief valve 440.

[0033] The vent housing 420 is generally configured to house the vent 430 and the relief valve 440. The vent housing 420 defines a cavity 422, a first end 402, a second end 404, and a connecting structure 410. The vent housing 420 can be constructed from a variety of materials and combinations of materials, as described above. An end cap 424 is connected to the vent housing 420 toward the first end 402. The end cap 424 can form an integral component with the vent housing 420 in some other embodiments. The cavity 422 is also defined by the end cap 424.

[0034] Mounting surface 450 is generally disposed within cavity 422 between first end 402 and second end 404. Mounting surface 450 is generally configured to receive vent 430 and relief valve 440. Mounting surface 450 defines a vent opening 452 and a valve opening 454. Vent opening 452 and valve opening 454 may each be one or more openings defined by mounting surface 450. Mounting surface 450 may be configured as described above herein. In this example, vent opening 452 is a single circular opening and valve opening 454 is a series of circular openings surrounding a valve extension opening 456 at the center of the valve opening.

[0035] The vent 430 is coupled to the mounting surface 450 across a vent opening 452. The vent 430 is generally configured to allow passive airflow between the casing and the surrounding environment while preventing liquids and particles from entering the casing. The vent 430 is disposed in fluid communication with an opening in the casing. The vent 430 can be bonded to the mounting surface 450 with an adhesive. The vent 430 can be constructed from materials similar to those of the vents described herein above. In this example, the vent 430 is circular, and the vent 430 can be bonded to the mounting surface 450 with an adhesive disposed adjacent its perimeter 432 to form a seal between the vent 430 and the mounting surface 450.

[0036] Valve 440 is sealably positioned on mounting surface 450 across valve opening 454. In various embodiments, valve 440 is an umbrella valve. Valve 440 has an extension portion 442 that is received by a central valve extension opening 456. Valve 440 is generally configured to form a seal around valve opening 454 to allow gas to passively vent through vent opening 452 and vent 430 under normal pressure conditions, and upon a pressure spike within the casing that exceeds threshold T, the pressure displaces umbrella valve 440, releasing it from valve opening 454 and allowing gas to bypass vent 430 and exit the casing through valve opening 454. Valve 440 is configured in parallel with vent 430 for airflow between the ambient environment and the casing.

[0037] Relief valve 440 is typically formed from an elastomeric material. Relief valve 440 is typically a one-way relief valve, although other types of relief valves may be used. Relief valve 440 may be any type of umbrella valve, such as a Belleville valve. In some embodiments, relief valve 440 is configured to re-form a seal around valve opening 454 when pressure inside the casing returns to a level below pressure threshold T.

[0038] The coupling structure 410 is generally configured to couple the assembly 400 to the casing around an opening defined by the casing. The coupling structure 410 is defined toward the second end 404 of the vent housing 420. The coupling structure 410 is generally configured to engage with the casing. In this example, the coupling structure 410 is a bottom surface (with respect to the illustration) that can be adhesively bonded to the casing around the opening. As mentioned above, alternative types of coupling structure 410 can also be used.

[0039] In examples consistent with this embodiment, the vent housing 420 defines an opening 426 between the ambient environment and the cavity 422 and defines a first fluid flow path between the exterior of the vent housing 420 and the mounting surface 450 and / or the vent 430. The coupling structure 410 also defines a second fluid flow path between the exterior of the vent housing 420 and the vent 430. In such embodiments, the umbrella valve 440 is configured to release from the mounting surface 450 when the pressure in the second fluid flow path is between 0.2 psi and 2 psi, and in some embodiments, between 0.5 psi and 1 psi, greater than the pressure in the first fluid flow path.

[0040] Vent housing 420 has an obstacle 458 located between opening 426 and vent 430. First obstacle 458 creates a tortuous path between opening 426 and vent 430, meaning that fluid flowing into opening 426 cannot directly impinge on vent 430. Similarly, one or more second obstacles 459 are located between opening 426 and valve 440. Second obstacle 459 creates a tortuous path between opening 426 and valve 440, meaning that fluid flowing into opening 426 cannot directly impinge on valve 440.

[0041] 11 is an exploded view of another exemplary assembly 500 with a vent 530 and a relief valve 540 consistent with certain implementations of the technology disclosed herein. Similar to the previously described assemblies, this assembly 500 is generally configured to allow gas to pass through the vent 530 between a casing (not shown here) and the external environment under normal pressure conditions. Upon the occurrence of a high-pressure event within the casing, the assembly 500 is configured to allow gas to escape the casing by bypassing the vent 530. The assembly 500 generally includes a vent housing 520, a mounting surface 550, the vent 530, and a relief valve 540.

[0042] The vent housing 520 is generally configured to house the vent 530 and the relief valve 540. The vent housing 520 defines a cavity 522, a first end 502, a second end 504, and a connecting structure 510. As described above, the vent housing 520 can be constructed from a variety of materials and combinations of materials. An end cap 524 is connected to the vent housing 520 toward the first end 502. The end cap 524 can form an integral component with the vent housing 520 in some other embodiments. The cavity 522 is also defined by the end cap 524.

[0043] Mounting surface 550 is generally disposed within cavity 522 between first end 502 and second end 504. Mounting surface 550 is generally configured to receive vent 530 and relief valve 540. Mounting surface 550 defines vent opening 552 and valve opening 554. Vent opening 552 and valve opening 554 may each be one or more openings defined by mounting surface 550. Mounting surface 550 may be configured as described herein above; in this example, mounting surface 550 has two surfaces. In this example, vent opening 552 is a single circular opening, and valve opening 554 is a series of circular openings surrounding valve extension opening 556, which is the center of valve opening 554.

[0044] The vent 530 is coupled to the mounting surface 550 across a vent opening 552. The vent 530 is generally configured to allow passive airflow between the casing and the surrounding environment while preventing liquids and particles from entering the casing. The vent 530 is disposed in fluid communication with the opening of the casing. The vent 530 can be bonded to the mounting surface 550 with an adhesive. The vent 530 can be constructed from materials similar to those of the vents described herein above. In this example, the vent 530 is circular, and the vent 530 can be bonded to the mounting surface 550 with an adhesive disposed adjacent its perimeter 532 to form a seal between the vent 530 and the mounting surface 550.

[0045] Valve 540 is sealably positioned on mounting surface 550 across valve opening 554. In various embodiments, valve 540 is an umbrella valve. Valve 540 has an extension 542 that is received by a central valve extension opening 556. Valve 540 is generally configured to form a seal around valve opening 554 to allow gas to passively vent through vent opening 552 and vent 530 under normal pressure conditions; in the event of a pressure spike within the casing that exceeds threshold T, the pressure displaces umbrella valve 540, releasing it from valve opening 554 and allowing gas to bypass vent 530 and exit the casing through valve opening 554. Valve 540 is configured in parallel with vent 530 for airflow between the ambient environment and the casing.

[0046] Relief valve 540 is typically formed from an elastomeric material. Relief valve 540 is typically a one-way relief valve, although other types of relief valves may be used. Relief valve 540 may be any type of umbrella valve, such as a Belleville valve. In some embodiments, relief valve 540 is configured to re-form a seal around valve opening 554 when pressure inside the casing returns to a level below pressure threshold T.

[0047] The coupling structure 510 is generally configured to couple the assembly 500 to the casing around an opening defined by the casing. The coupling structure 510 is defined toward the second end 504 of the vent housing 520. The coupling structure 510 is generally configured to engage the casing. In this example, the coupling structure 510 is a bottom surface (with respect to the illustration) that can be coupled to the casing around the opening with an adhesive. As mentioned above, alternative types of coupling structure 510 can also be used.

[0048] Note that in embodiments consistent with this example, cavity 522 is actually two separate cavities, one housing valve 540 and the other housing vent 530. In some embodiments, there is a single cavity. In examples consistent with this embodiment, vent housing 520 defines an opening 526 between the ambient environment and cavity 522, and defines a first fluid flow path between the exterior of vent housing 520 and mounting surface 550 and / or vent 530. Coupling structure 510 also defines a second fluid flow path between the exterior of vent housing 520 and vent 530. In such embodiments, umbrella valve 540 is configured to release from mounting surface 550 when the pressure in the second fluid flow path is between 0.2 psi and 2 psi, and in some embodiments, between 0.5 psi and 1 psi, greater than the pressure in the first fluid flow path.

[0049] Vent housing 520 has an obstacle 558 located between opening 526 and vent 530. First obstacle 558 creates a tortuous path between opening 526 and vent 530, meaning that fluid flowing into opening 526 cannot directly impinge on vent 530. Similarly, one or more second obstacles 559 are located between opening 526 and valve 540. Second obstacle 559 creates a tortuous path between opening 526 and valve 540, meaning that fluid flowing into opening 526 cannot directly impinge on valve 540.

[0050] It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "configured" describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The term "configured" can be used interchangeably with other similar terms, such as "deployed," "deployed and configured," "built and deployed," "constructed," "manufactured and deployed," etc.

[0051] All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology pertains, and are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference.

[0052] This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the present subject matter.It is to be understood that the above description is illustrative and not limiting.

Claims

1. a housing defining a cavity, a first end, a second end, and a coupling structure facing the second end; a mounting surface disposed within the cavity between the first end and the second end, the mounting surface defining a valve opening and a vent opening; a vent coupled to the mounting surface across the vent opening; an umbrella valve sealably positioned on the mounting surface across the valve opening; 1. A vent assembly comprising:

2. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1 and 3-17, further comprising an end cap coupled to the housing facing the first end.

3. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1-2 and 4-17, wherein the mounting surface forms a unitary structure with the housing.

4. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5 to 17, wherein the vent comprises a breathable membrane.

5. 18. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6 to 17, wherein the housing defines an opening between an ambient environment and the cavity, and defines a fluid flow path between an exterior of the housing and the mounting surface.

6. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1 to 5 and 7 to 17, wherein the housing comprises a first obstruction, the first obstruction being disposed between the opening and the vent.

7. 18. The vent assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a second obstruction disposed on the mounting surface that extends into the fluid flow path, the second obstruction being disposed between the opening and the umbrella valve.

8. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1-7 and 9-17, wherein the fluid flow path defines a serpentine path between the opening and the umbrella valve.

9. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1 to 8 and 10 to 17, wherein the coupling structure defines a fluid flow path between an exterior of the housing and the vent.

10. 18. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1-9 and 11-17, wherein the housing defines a first fluid flow path between an exterior of the housing and the vent, the coupling structure defines a second fluid flow path between the exterior of the housing and the vent, and the umbrella valve is configured to release from the mounting surface when pressure in the second fluid flow path is 0.5 to 1 psi greater than pressure in the first fluid flow path.

11. 18. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1-10 and 12-17, wherein the housing further defines a central axis extending from the first end to the second end, and the mounting surface is about the central axis.

12. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1-11 and 13-17, wherein the valve opening comprises a plurality of openings defining a segmented annulus about the central axis.

13. 18. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1-12 and 14-17, wherein the vent opening is a plurality of openings defining a segmented ring about the central axis.

14. 18. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1-13 and 15-17, wherein the mounting surface defines a central opening about the central axis, and the umbrella valve includes an extension portion extending through the central opening.

15. 18. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1-14 and 16-17, wherein the housing defines radial openings about the central axis, the radial openings defining fluid flow paths between an exterior of the housing and the vent.

16. 18. The vent assembly of any one of claims 1 to 15 and 17, wherein the vent and the umbrella valve are concentric.

17. The vent assembly of any preceding claim, further comprising a seal abutting the coupling structure.

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