Magnetic flux generator

Abstract

The present invention provides a magnetic flux generator configured to improve ion transport in one or more electrochemical cells housed in a battery pack mounted on a vehicle. The magnetic flux generator includes one or more magnetic field sources, each configured to generate a magnetic field through at least one of the one or more electrochemical cells.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a magnetic flux generator configured to improve ion transport in one or more electrochemical cells housed within a battery pack mounted in a vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] Electrochemical cells are essential for many electrical systems, particularly portable devices such as mobile phones and laptops, and are becoming increasingly essential for electric vehicles.

[0003] Various types and configurations of electrochemical cells can be selected based on size, shape, voltage, current, and other requirements. Examples of common cell shapes are pouch cells, prismatic cells, and cylindrical cells. Cells can also be connected within a battery to provide a voltage and / or current appropriate for the application.

[0004] In the context of electric vehicles, electrochemical cells are typically arranged within battery modules that form part of the vehicle's battery pack. This is shown in FIGS. 1A to 3. Specifically, FIG. 1A shows a plurality of pouch electrochemical cells 200 electrically connected and arranged within battery module 150, whereas FIG. 1B shows a plurality of cylindrical electrochemical cells 200' arranged within battery module 150. Referring to FIG. 2, battery modules 150 of the type shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B are arranged and electrically connected to provide a battery pack 400 mounted in and incorporated into a vehicle 300 (see FIG. 3).

[0005] The functionality of an electric vehicle depends on the performance of its battery pack. In general, it is desirable to have a battery pack with a large capacity and a short charging time in order to increase the ratio of the time the vehicle can operate independently of an external power source to the time the vehicle must be connected to an external power source for charging.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] This invention was conceived in view of the above considerations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a magnetic flux generator configured to improve ion transport in one or more electrochemical cells housed in a battery pack mounted on a vehicle, A magnetic flux generator is provided, comprising one or more magnetic field sources, each configured to generate a magnetic field that passes through at least one of one or more electrochemical cells.

[0008] Advantageously, providing a magnetic field through the electrochemical cell (i.e., allowing the magnetic field to pass through the cell) can homogenize the local resistance within the cell and thus improve ion transport. Improved ion transport can enhance the cell's performance and / or reduce charging time. This significantly enhances the functionality of electrochemical cells housed in battery packs mounted on vehicles and thus improves the user experience when using the vehicle. In the context of the present invention, the vehicle may be, for example, an electric vehicle or a hybrid electric vehicle. The vehicle may also be, for example, a road vehicle such as a car, a railway vehicle such as a train, an aircraft, or a vessel such as a boat or ship.

[0009] The optional features of the present invention are discussed below. The present invention includes combinations of the described embodiments and optional features, unless such combinations are clearly unacceptable or explicitly avoided.

[0010] Each of these electrochemical cells can be a battery. Each of these electrochemical cells can be a cation cell, and the current path can be in the direction of cation movement. Alternatively, each of these electrochemical cells can be an anion cell, and the current path can be in the direction of anion movement. Each of these electrochemical cells can be a lithium-ion battery. Each of these electrochemical cells can be a solid-state battery.

[0011] At least one of the one or more magnetic field sources may be a curved magnetic field source. Each curved magnetic field source may be curved to at least partially surround one of a plurality of electrochemical cells housed in a battery pack mounted on the vehicle. That is, each curved magnetic field source may be shaped and sized to at least partially curve around a curved portion of an electrochemical cell, such as a cylindrical cell. For example, each curved magnetic flux generator may include at least one curved portion (i.e., a bend) shaped and sized to curve around a curved portion of an electrochemical cell, and may also include at least one flat portion.

[0012] If each curved magnetic field source includes multiple magnets, such as multiple permanent magnets and / or multiple electromagnets and / or multiple temporary magnets, the multiple magnets can be arranged around a curved, arc-shaped, circular, or polygonal portion to provide the curved portion of the curved magnetic field source. The curved, arc-shaped, circular, or polygonal portion may be provided by a curved, semicircular, circular, or polygonal mechanical support, respectively.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the one or more magnetic field sources can be a flat (i.e., planar) magnetic field source. In some examples, a flat magnetic field source can be a flat permanent magnet. In some examples, a flat magnetic field source can include multiple permanent magnets. In some examples, a flat magnetic field source can include multiple electromagnets of any of the types described in more detail below, for example. In some examples, a flat magnetic field source can include a combination of permanent magnets and electromagnets arranged planarly to provide a flat magnetic field source.

[0014] The magnetic flux generator may include multiple magnetic field sources, some of which can be flat magnetic field sources.

[0015] In the first variant of the first embodiment, the magnetic flux generator may be mounted and incorporated into the vehicle.

[0016] In some embodiments, the battery pack may include one or more battery modules, each containing one or more electrochemical cells, and a flux generator may be incorporated inside the battery pack. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the battery pack may not include any battery modules. Instead, the battery pack may simply contain only electrochemical cells. A flux generator may be incorporated inside the battery pack. Specifically, the battery pack may be a moduleless battery pack, and the electrochemical cells may be incorporated directly into the battery pack. That is, the battery pack may have a cell-to-pack structure.

[0017] In some examples, a flux generator may include multiple magnetic field sources. At least some of these magnetic field sources may be mounted and incorporated into the vehicle, outside the battery pack. Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the magnetic field sources may be mounted and incorporated into the battery pack, in one of the manners discussed in more detail below. Conveniently, if the flux generator is mounted and incorporated into the vehicle such that some magnetic field sources are located outside the battery pack and some magnetic field sources are located inside the battery pack, it can be ensured that the battery pack is uniformly permeated by the generated magnetic field(s).

[0018] At least some of the multiple magnetic field sources can be flat magnetic field sources as described above. In some examples, the magnetic flux generator includes one or more flat magnetic field sources located outside the battery pack mounted on the vehicle, and one or more magnetic field sources incorporated inside the battery pack. For example, each of the flat magnetic field sources may be in contact with each wall of the battery pack, or each of the flat magnetic field sources may be adjacent to each wall of the battery pack so as to extend along a plane substantially parallel to the walls of the battery pack and at a close distance from the walls of the battery pack. Each of the magnetic field sources incorporated inside the battery pack may include, for example, a single electromagnet.

[0019] The magnetic flux generator may include multiple magnetic field sources, and the battery pack may include multiple battery modules.

[0020] Multiple magnetic field sources may be interspersed between multiple battery modules. For example, the magnetic field sources and battery modules may be arranged alternately. The flux generator may include at least the same number of magnetic field sources as the battery modules in the battery pack. In this case, the magnetic field sources and battery modules in the battery pack may be arranged such that each battery module is sandwiched between its respective pair of multiple magnetic field sources. Conveniently, this can ensure that the electrochemical cells in each battery module are uniformly permeated by its / each generated magnetic field.

[0021] Multiple magnetic field sources may be arranged inside each of the multiple battery modules such that each battery module contains at least one of the multiple magnetic field sources.

[0022] Each battery module may include multiple magnetic field sources interposed between multiple electrochemical cells within each module. For example, the magnetic field sources and electrochemical cells within each battery module may be arranged alternately. Each battery module may include at least the same number of magnetic field sources as electrochemical cells. In this case, the magnetic field sources and electrochemical cells within each battery module may be arranged such that each electrochemical cell is sandwiched between each pair of multiple magnetic field sources. Conveniently, this can ensure that the electrochemical cells within each battery module are uniformly permeated by their / each generated magnetic field.

[0023] One or more magnetic field sources of a flux generator may be incorporated inside each of the electrochemical cells of one or more electrochemical cells. Specifically, if the flux generator includes multiple magnetic field sources and the battery pack includes multiple electrochemical cells, each electrochemical cell may house one or more of the multiple magnetic field sources inside its housing to increase exposure to the magnetic field generated by its / each of the internally provided magnetic field sources.

[0024] The magnetic flux generator may be located outside the battery pack, and one or more magnetic field sources may be positioned adjacent to the battery pack. For example, each magnetic field source may be in contact with each wall of the battery pack, or each magnetic field source may be adjacent to each wall of the battery pack so as to extend along a plane that is substantially parallel to the walls of the battery pack and close to the walls of the battery pack.

[0025] In a second variant of the first embodiment, the magnetic flux generator may be provided without being mounted on the vehicle.

[0026] The magnetic flux generator can be provided flush with the ground surface. For example, the upper surface of the magnetic flux generator during use can be flush with the ground surface.

[0027] The magnetic flux generator may be provided below the ground surface. That is, the magnetic flux generator can be provided underground so as to be buried below the ground surface.

[0028] Alternatively, the magnetic flux generator can be provided above the ground surface. For example, the magnetic flux generator can be provided above the ground surface as a raised mat placed on the ground and having a thickness extending upward in the direction of use from the ground surface. The magnetic flux generator can be provided on a platform raised above the ground surface. The platform can be made movable vertically for various types of electric vehicle applications. The platform can be connected to a mechanism for moving the platform vertically (i.e., raising / lowering). For example, the mechanism can include an electric motor. Advantageously, this makes it possible to vary the vertical position of the magnetic flux generator and thus the proximity of the magnetic flux generator to the vehicle chassis. This can ensure that the battery pack mounted on the vehicle is uniformly and sufficiently penetrated by the magnetic field generated thereby for various types of vehicles having differently shaped / sized chassis and / or differently shaped / sized / arranged battery packs. The platform can be made movable horizontally, for example, for more accurate alignment with the vehicle. The platform can be connected to a mechanism for moving the platform horizontally. For example, the mechanism can include an electric motor. The mechanism for moving the platform horizontally can also be the mechanism for moving the platform vertically (i.e., raising / lowering).

[0029] The magnetic field may have a magnetic field strength of at least 0T. The magnetic field may have a magnetic field strength of at most 5T. The magnetic field may have a magnetic field strength of 0T to 5T, including 0T and 5T. The magnetic field may have a magnetic field strength of 0T to 1mT, including 0T and 1mT. The magnetic field may have a magnetic field strength of 1mT to 5T, including 1mT and 5T.

[0030] The magnetic field generated by at least one of the one or more magnetic field sources may be a variable magnetic field.

[0031] The magnetic field generated by at least one of the one or more magnetic field sources may have a frequency of at least 0.1 Hz, or at least 1 Hz, or at least 5 Hz, or at least 10 Hz, or at least 20 Hz, or at least 50 Hz, or at least 75 Hz, or at least 100 Hz, or at least 125 Hz. Alternatively, or in addition, the changing magnetic field generated by at least one of the one or more magnetic field sources may have a frequency of 1,000 Hz or less, or 750 Hz or less, or 500 Hz or less, or 250 Hz or less, or 150 Hz or less, or 100 Hz or less, or 50 Hz or less.

[0032] Each of the changing magnetic fields may be a rotating magnetic field, a pulsed magnetic field, and / or an oscillating magnetic field, or any combination thereof. The rotation of each changing magnetic field may be around an axis having a component perpendicular to the direction of each changing magnetic field. The rotation of each changing magnetic field may be around an axis having a component parallel to the direction of each changing magnetic field. The rotation of each changing magnetic field may be around an axis having a component perpendicular to the direction of current flow in its electrochemical cell. The rotation of each changing magnetic field may be around an axis having a component parallel to the direction of current flow in each electrochemical cell. Each rotating magnetic field may be provided by a rotating permanent magnet, or a temporary magnet, or by an array of electromagnets that are sequentially activated to effectively rotate each magnetic field.

[0033] Each of the changing magnetic fields may be controllably variable in one, two, or three spatial dimensions. Additionally or alternatively, the magnitude of each magnetic field may be controllably variable. Additionally or alternatively, the frequency of each magnetic field may be controllably variable. Conveniently, this can ensure that, for various types of vehicles having chassis with different shapes / sizes and / or battery packs with different shapes / sizes / positions, the battery packs mounted on the vehicle are uniformly and sufficiently transmitted by each of the generated magnetic fields.

[0034] A flux generator may include a controller configured to control the magnetic field(s) generated by one or more magnetic field sources. For example, the controller may be configured to control (e.g., change over time) the direction and / or magnitude and / or frequency of the generated magnetic field(s). The controller may be configured to control its / each magnetic field based on one or any combination thereof of electrical, magnetic, optical, and / or acoustic measurements performed in one or more electrochemical cells in a battery pack. Electrical, magnetic, optical, and / or acoustic measurements may be performed as each magnetic field is individually controllable. The flux generator may include a sensor unit configured to perform electrical, magnetic, optical, and / or acoustic measurements. For example, the sensor unit may include one or any combination thereof of a Hall sensor, a Gaussian sensor, an optical sensor, and / or an acoustic sensor. The controller may be communicatively connected to the sensor unit.

[0035] At least one of the one or more magnetic field sources may include one or more permanent magnets. When the generated magnetic field is stationary, the one or more permanent magnets are stationary. Alternatively, if the generated magnetic field is a variable magnetic field, each of the one or more permanent magnets is coupled to a mechanism for moving the permanent magnets. For example, the mechanism may include an electric motor. Generally, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnets can be changed by changing the direction and / or speed at which the permanent magnets are moved (rotated) by the mechanism. If the magnetic flux generator includes a controller as described above, the controller may be configured to control the mechanism (e.g., a motor) for moving the permanent magnets to control the characteristics (e.g., frequency and / or direction) of the magnetic field generated by one or more magnetic field sources.

[0036] At least one of the one or more magnetic field sources may include one or more electromagnets. The electromagnets can be of any type. Generally, an electromagnet includes a coil of wire wound around a core. The core may be formed from a high-permeability magnetic material. The core can be a metallic core (e.g., a ferromagnetic core). Alternatively, the core can be an air-filled space in the center of the electromagnet, i.e., an air core.

[0037] Each electromagnet may be connected to a power supply unit. Each electromagnet may be connected to its own different power supply unit. Alternatively, each electromagnet may be connected to a single, shared power supply unit. The magnetic field generated by each electromagnet may be altered by changing the amount and / or direction of the current supplied to the electromagnet by the power supply unit. For example, it would be desirable to switch off one or more of the electromagnets (i.e., not power the electromagnets) to alter the changing magnetic field generated by each flux generator. Additionally or alternatively, it would be desirable to supply currents of varying directions and / or magnitudes to each of the different electromagnets to change the magnetic polarity of the magnetic field they generate, for example.

[0038] If the magnetic flux generator includes a controller as described above, the controller may be configured to control the current supplied to one or more magnetic field sources in order to control the characteristics of the changing magnetic field(s) generated. In some examples, the controller may be configured to control the energy and / or direction of the current supplied to one or more magnetic field sources by its / each power supply unit, and / or to switch off the power supply to one or more selected magnetic field sources(s) from among the one or more. In some examples, the controller may be configured to cause its / each power supply unit to supply to one or more selected magnetic field sources(s) from among the one or more magnetic field sources (in this case, electromagnets) currents having various directions and / or magnitudes and / or frequencies.

[0039] Each electromagnet may be an air-core electromagnet extending longitudinally (i.e., axially) and radially to define a space for housing one or more electrochemical cells. One or more electrochemical cells may be cylindrical. An air-core electromagnet, here, means a coil of wire (i.e., a solenoid) that includes an air-filled central space defined by the coil and does not contain a solid core such as a ferromagnetic core. The air core can house each electrochemical cell, for example, a cylindrical cell.

[0040] At least one of the magnetic field sources may include a plurality of permanent magnets (either stationary or coupled to their respective mechanisms for movement) and / or a plurality of electromagnets. The plurality of permanent magnets and / or electromagnets may be arranged in the same plane, for example, such that each of its magnetic field sources is a flat magnetic field source. The plurality of permanent magnets and / or electromagnets may be arranged in a grid.

[0041] In a second aspect, the present invention is A charging unit for charging the vehicle's battery pack, A magnetic flux generator according to the second modified form of the first embodiment and We provide a vehicle charging system that includes the following features.

[0042] It will be understood that the flux generator is functionally different from the charging unit (i.e., the flux generator cannot function as a charging unit). The flux generator can be physically separate from the charging unit, for example, it can be retrofitted.

[0043] A vehicle charging system may be configured such that a magnetic flux generator generates a magnetic field (or more) (e.g., a changing magnetic field) through at least one of the one or more electrochemical cells in the vehicle's battery pack while the vehicle is being charged by the charging unit.

[0044] The charging unit may be equipped with a charging cable for connecting to the vehicle in order to charge the vehicle's battery pack.

[0045] The charging unit can be a wireless charging unit. That is, the charging unit can be configured to wirelessly charge the vehicle's battery pack by electromagnetic induction.

[0046] The charging unit may be mounted flush with the ground surface or below the ground surface. Alternatively, the charging unit may be mounted above the ground surface. For example, the charging unit may be mounted above the ground surface as a raised mat that is placed on the ground and has a thickness that extends upward from the ground surface when in use. The charging unit may be mounted on a platform that is elevated above the ground surface. The platform may have any one or any combination of the features of the platform described with reference to the second variant of the first embodiment (i.e., the platform on which the magnetic flux generator may be mounted). The charging unit and the magnetic flux generator may be mounted together on the same platform.

[0047] A flux generator according to a first modification of the first embodiment may include a magnetic field induction component. The magnetic field induction component may be mounted and incorporated into a vehicle.

[0048] The vehicle charging system may further include a magnetic field induction component mounted and integrated into the vehicle.

[0049] A magnetic field induction structure may include at least one of one or more metal plates and / or one or more electromagnetic coils. The magnetic field induction structure may be provided adjacent to the vehicle's battery pack. For example, if the magnetic field induction structure includes one or more metal plates, each of them may abut against the respective walls of the battery pack. At least some of the one or more metal plates may be flat (i.e., flat) metal plates. Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the one or more metal plates may be curved metal plates. Each of them may include at least one curved portion (i.e., bend) and at least one flat (flat) portion. Each of them may be configured to curve at least partially around a curved portion of a cylindrical cell of one or more electrochemical cells housed in a battery pack mounted in the vehicle. For example, each of them may be shaped and sized to curve at least partially around a curved portion of a cylindrical cell of one or more electrochemical cells.

[0050] Conveniently, metal plates and electromagnetic coils can be used to selectively direct the magnetic field lines of a generated magnetic field in a predetermined manner. For example, the physical arrangement of metal plates and / or electromagnetic coils can influence the distribution of magnetic field lines through a selected region in space, for example, to concentrate or deflect magnetic field lines at a particular spatial location.

[0051] If the magnetic field induction structure includes one or more metal plates, at least one of the metal plates may be used as a heat sink to provide thermal management for the battery pack and / or magnetic flux generator, in addition to performing its magnetic field induction function.

[0052] In a third aspect, the present invention is Multiple electrochemical cells, A magnetic flux generator according to the first modified form of the first embodiment and We provide a battery pack for vehicles that includes the following features.

[0053] Each electrochemical cell can be a battery. Each electrochemical cell can be a cation cell, and the current path can be in the direction of cation movement. Alternatively, each electrochemical cell can be an anion cell, and the current path can be in the direction of anion movement. Each electrochemical cell can be a lithium-ion battery. Each electrochemical cell can be a solid-state battery.

[0054] In some embodiments, the battery pack may consist of one or more battery modules, each of which may contain multiple electrochemical cells. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the battery pack may not include any battery modules. Instead, the battery pack may simply contain only electrochemical cells. A flux generator may be incorporated inside the battery pack. Specifically, the battery pack may be a moduleless battery pack, and the electrochemical cells may be directly incorporated into the battery pack. That is, the battery pack may have a cell-to-pack structure.

[0055] The magnetic flux generator may include multiple magnetic field sources, and the battery pack may include multiple battery modules.

[0056] Multiple magnetic field sources may be interposed between multiple battery modules. For example, the magnetic field sources and battery modules may be arranged alternately. The magnetic flux generator may include at least the same number of magnetic field sources as the battery modules in the battery pack. In this case, the magnetic field sources and battery modules in the battery pack may be arranged such that each battery module is sandwiched between its respective pair of multiple magnetic field sources. Conveniently, this can ensure that the electrochemical cells in each battery module are uniformly permeated by its / each generated magnetic field.

[0057] Multiple magnetic field sources may be arranged inside each of the multiple battery modules such that each battery module contains at least one magnetic field source.

[0058] Each battery module may include multiple magnetic field sources interposed between multiple electrochemical cells within each module. For example, the magnetic field sources and electrochemical cells within each battery module may be arranged alternately. Each battery module may include at least the same number of magnetic field sources as electrochemical cells. In this case, the magnetic field sources and electrochemical cells within each battery module may be arranged such that each electrochemical cell is sandwiched between each pair of multiple magnetic field sources. Conveniently, this can ensure that the electrochemical cells within each battery module are uniformly permeated by their / each generated magnetic field.

[0059] One or more magnetic field sources of a flux generator may be incorporated inside each of the electrochemical cells of one or more electrochemical cells. Specifically, if the flux generator includes multiple magnetic field sources and the battery pack includes multiple electrochemical cells, each electrochemical cell may house one or more of the multiple magnetic field sources inside its housing to increase exposure to the magnetic field generated by its / each of the internally provided magnetic field sources.

[0060] In a fourth embodiment, the present invention provides a vehicle comprising the battery pack described in the third embodiment.

[0061] In a fifth embodiment, the present invention is A battery pack containing multiple electrochemical cells, A magnetic flux generator according to the first modified form of the first embodiment and We provide vehicles equipped with the following features.

[0062] Each electrochemical cell can be a battery. Each electrochemical cell can be a cation cell, and the current path can be in the direction of cation movement. Alternatively, each electrochemical cell can be an anion cell, and the current path can be in the direction of anion movement. Each electrochemical cell can be a lithium-ion battery. Each electrochemical cell can be a solid-state battery.

[0063] The magnetic flux generator may be located outside the battery pack, and one or more magnetic field sources may be positioned adjacent to the battery pack. For example, each magnetic field source may be in contact with each wall of the battery pack, or each magnetic field source may be adjacent to each wall of the battery pack so as to extend along a plane that is substantially parallel to the walls of the battery pack and close to the walls of the battery pack.

[0064] Next, embodiments and experiments illustrating the principle of the present invention will be discussed with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0065] [Figure 1A] This figure shows a modified form of a conventional battery module containing multiple electrochemical cells. [Figure 1B] This figure shows a modified form of a conventional battery module containing multiple electrochemical cells. [Figure 2] This diagram shows a conventional battery pack for vehicles, which includes multiple battery modules. [Figure 3] This diagram shows a conventional battery pack, as shown in Figure 2, mounted and integrated into a vehicle. [Figure 4] This figure shows a modified configuration of a battery module including multiple electrochemical cells and a magnetic flux generator, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This figure shows a modified configuration of a battery module including multiple electrochemical cells and a magnetic flux generator, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6]This figure shows a modified configuration of a battery module including multiple electrochemical cells and a magnetic flux generator, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This figure shows a modified configuration of a battery module including multiple electrochemical cells and a magnetic flux generator, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This figure shows a modified configuration of a battery module including multiple electrochemical cells and a magnetic flux generator, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This figure shows a modified configuration of a battery module including multiple electrochemical cells and a magnetic flux generator, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This figure shows a configuration of a battery pack, according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes multiple battery modules interposed between multiple magnetic field sources. [Figure 11] Figure 10 is a partial diagram of the battery pack configuration. [Figure 12] This figure shows a configuration of a battery pack, according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes multiple battery modules interposed between multiple magnetic field sources. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is a partial diagram of the battery pack configuration. [Figure 14] This figure shows a modified configuration of a battery pack and an external magnetic flux generator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This figure shows the battery pack and magnetic flux generator shown in Figure 14, which are mounted and integrated into the vehicle. [Figure 16] This figure shows a modified configuration of a battery pack and an external magnetic flux generator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This figure shows the battery pack and magnetic flux generator shown in Figure 16, which are mounted and integrated into the vehicle. [Figure 18A] This is a front view of a battery pack and magnetic flux generator mounted and integrated into a vehicle, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18B] This is a side view of a battery pack and magnetic flux generator mounted and integrated into a vehicle, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19A]This is a front view of a battery pack and magnetic flux generator mounted and integrated into a vehicle, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19B] This is a side view of a battery pack and magnetic flux generator mounted and integrated into a vehicle, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20A] This is a front view of a vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes a magnetic flux generator that is not mounted on the vehicle but is located below the ground surface. [Figure 20B] This is a side view of a vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes a magnetic flux generator that is not mounted on the vehicle but is located below the ground surface. [Figure 21A] This is a front view of a vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes a magnetic flux generator that is not mounted on the vehicle but is installed above the ground surface. [Figure 21B] This is a side view of a vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes a magnetic flux generator that is not mounted on the vehicle but is installed above the ground surface. [Figure 22A] This is a front view of a vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes a magnetic flux generator installed on a raised platform above the ground surface, rather than being mounted on a vehicle. [Figure 22B] This is a side view of a vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes a magnetic flux generator installed on a raised platform above the ground surface, rather than being mounted on a vehicle. [Figure 23A] This diagram shows the magnitude of the magnetic field generated, which can be controlled and varied to allow different battery packs mounted and integrated into vehicles to pass through. [Figure 23B] This diagram shows the magnitude of the magnetic field generated, which can be controlled and varied to allow different battery packs mounted and integrated into vehicles to pass through. [Figure 24A] This diagram shows the magnitude of the magnetic field generated, which can be controlled and varied to allow different battery packs installed and integrated into a vehicle to pass through. [Figure 24B] This diagram shows the magnitude of the magnetic field generated, which can be controlled and varied to allow different battery packs installed and integrated into a vehicle to pass through. [Figure 25] This is a partial diagram of a vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes a magnetic flux generator located below the ground surface and not mounted on the vehicle, and a magnetic field induction component mounted and incorporated on the vehicle. [Figure 26] This diagram shows the three spatial dimensions in which the magnetic field generated by the magnetic flux generator according to an embodiment of the present invention can change. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0066] Next, aspects and embodiments of the present invention will be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All references mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[0067] The present invention provides a magnetic flux generator 1 configured to improve ion transport in one or more electrochemical cells 20 housed within a battery pack 40 mounted on a vehicle 30. The magnetic flux generator 1 includes one or more magnetic field sources 10, each configured to generate a magnetic field that passes through at least one of the one or more electrochemical cells. The battery pack can have capacities from 1kWh to 5000kWh, including 1kWh and 5000kWh. The battery pack can have capacities from 1kWh to 1000kWh, including 1kWh and 1000kWh. The battery pack can have capacities from 10kWh to 1000kWh, including 10kWh and 1000kWh. The battery pack can have capacities from 10kWh to 300kWh, including 10kWh and 300kWh. The battery pack may have a length of 500mm to 5000mm, including 500mm and 5000mm, for example, 1660mm; a width of 50mm to 2500mm, including 50mm and 2500mm, for example, 964mm; and a height of 50mm to 700mm, including 50mm and 700mm, for example, 174mm.

[0068] As already discussed, a battery pack may contain one or more battery modules. Depending on the module size, a battery pack may contain 1 to 100 battery modules, including 1 and 100 modules. Each battery module may contain up to 2000 electrochemical cells, including 2000 cells. Whether or not a battery pack contains modules, and depending on the cell size, a battery pack may contain up to 200,000 cells, for example, up to 20,000 cells, including 200,000 cells. The magnetic flux generator 1 can be incorporated into a vehicle 30, for example, inside a battery pack 40. If the battery pack includes a battery module 15, the magnetic flux generator can be incorporated inside the battery module. This will be discussed with reference to Figures 4 to 9, which show modified configurations of the magnetic flux generator 1 including multiple magnetic field sources 10 provided inside each battery module 15.

[0069] In the example in Figure 4, the battery module 15 surrounds multiple pouch electrochemical cells 20, which are arranged alternately with multiple flat magnetic field sources 10, such that each pouch cell is sandwiched between each pair of magnetic field sources. Generally, the length and width of a typical pouch (or prism) cell (including the cells shown in Figures 4 and 5) can range from 10 mm to 1000 mm, including 10 mm and 1000 mm, while the thickness of a typical pouch (or prism) cell can range from 3 mm to 300 mm, including 3 mm and 300 mm.

[0070] In the example shown in Figure 5, the battery module 15 encloses a plurality of pouch electrochemical cells 20 and a plurality of magnetic field sources shaped as elongated slabs. The magnetic field sources 10 extend along the respective upper and lower edges of each pouch cell 20. The upper edge of the pouch cell is the edge containing the pouch cell's tab, and the lower edge is on the opposite side of the upper edge. Each pouch cell 20 is sandwiched between its respective pair of magnetic field sources 10, positioned at the upper and lower edges of the pouch cell. Modifications to this configuration are possible. For example, the elongated magnetic field sources 10 can extend approximately perpendicular or at acute / obtuse angles to the upper / lower edges of the pouch cells.

[0071] In the example shown in Figure 6, the battery module 15 surrounds a flat magnetic field source 10 that supports a plurality of cylindrical electrochemical cells 20 placed upright in the magnetic field source.

[0072] In the example shown in Figure 7, each battery module surrounds a mechanical support that upright supports multiple magnetic field sources 10. The magnetic field sources are arranged in a grid. In this example, the magnetic field sources are air-core electromagnets that extend longitudinally (i.e., axially) and radially to define the space for housing each cylindrical electrochemical cell 20. An air-core electromagnet here means a coil of wire (i.e., a solenoid) that includes an air-filled central space defined by the coil and does not contain a solid core such as a ferromagnetic core. Thus, in this example, each magnetic field source 10 surrounds each cylindrical cell 20.

[0073] In the example shown in Figure 8, the cylindrical cells 20 are similarly arranged in a grid, but each magnetic field source 10 is a flat magnetic field source. The magnetic field sources 10 are positioned such that each row of electrochemical cells 20 is sandwiched between pairs of magnetic field sources 10 that extend perpendicularly and parallel to each side wall of the battery module 15.

[0074] Finally, in the example of Figure 9, each magnetic field source 10 is a disc-shaped magnetic field source. The cylindrical cells 20 are arranged upright in a grid pattern inside the battery module 15. Each cylindrical cell has a bottom wall, a top wall, and a side wall extending between the bottom wall and the top wall. Each magnetic field source 10 is provided on or very close to the bottom and top walls of each cylindrical cell, so that each cell is sandwiched longitudinally (vertically) between each pair of disc-shaped magnetic field sources 10. Each magnetic field source 10 may have an area equal to or approximately equal to the area of ​​the wall (i.e., the top wall or the bottom wall) on which each magnetic field source 10 is provided or very close to. Each cylindrical cell may have a diameter of 10 mm to 50 mm, including 10 mm and 50 mm, for example, 18 mm, or 21 mm, or 46 mm. Each cylindrical cell may have a height of 50mm to 100mm, including 50mm and 100mm, for example, 65mm, 70mm, or 80mm.

[0075] It is also possible to provide the magnetic flux generator 1 inside the battery pack 40 but outside the battery modules 15. For example, the magnetic field sources 10 can be interposed between the battery modules. Two such exemplary configurations are shown in Figures 10 and 12. In Figure 10, the magnetic flux generator 1 includes a plurality of flat magnetic field sources 10 arranged upright inside the battery pack 40 and parallel to the side walls of the battery pack 40, such that each of the battery modules 15 of the battery pack (only one of them is shown) is sandwiched between its respective pair of magnetic field sources. This is shown in more detail in Figure 11, which shows a single battery module 15 sandwiched between a pair of magnetic field sources 10. In the example in Figure 12, the magnetic flux generator 1 also includes a plurality of flat magnetic field sources 10 arranged inside the battery pack 40. However, in this example, the magnetic field sources are arranged in a grid parallel to the top and bottom walls of the battery pack. Thus, each battery module 15 (only one of them is shown) is sandwiched longitudinally between its respective pair of magnetic field sources. This is illustrated in more detail in Figure 13, which shows a single battery module 15 sandwiched vertically between a pair of magnetic field sources 10.

[0076] Although mounted on the vehicle 30, it is also possible to install the magnetic flux generator 1 outside the battery pack 40. This is shown in the examples in Figures 14 to 19B. In the example in Figure 14, the magnetic flux generator includes a pair of flat magnetic field sources 10 arranged parallel to the side walls of the battery pack 40. In this example, the magnetic field sources abut against the side walls of the battery pack and thus sandwich the battery pack from the sides. This arrangement is shown mounted and incorporated in the vehicle 30 in Figure 15. Similarly, the magnetic flux generator 1 in Figure 16 includes a pair of flat magnetic field sources 10 that sandwich the battery pack 40. However, in this example, the magnetic field sources extend parallel to the upper and lower walls of the battery pack, respectively, in order to abut against the battery pack and sandwich it longitudinally. This arrangement is shown mounted and incorporated in the vehicle 30 in Figure 17.

[0077] Instead of two magnetic field sources, a flux generator may also contain only one magnetic field source. Examples of this are shown in Figures 18A to 19B. Specifically, the flux generator 1 in Figures 18A and 18B includes only one flat magnetic field source 10 that extends parallel to and abuts the upper wall of the battery pack. In contrast, in the examples in Figures 19A to 19B, the flux generator 1 includes only one flat magnetic field source 10 that extends parallel to and abuts the lower wall of the battery pack. In these examples, the vehicle 30 is temporarily connected to the charging unit 11 via a charging cable 12 to charge the battery pack 40 of the vehicle 30. In these figures, the ground surface GL is also indicated by a horizontal dashed line.

[0078] Instead of being mounted on the vehicle, the magnetic flux generator 1 may be provided as part of a vehicle charging system 500 that is not mounted on the vehicle 30. This will be discussed with reference to Figures 20A to 25. The vehicle charging system includes a charging unit 11.

[0079] In the examples shown in Figures 20A and 20B, the magnetic flux generator 1 is located below ground level (GL). Specifically, the magnetic flux generator 1 includes only one flat magnetic field source 10, which is installed underground and buried below ground level (GL).

[0080] Alternatively, the flux generator 1 may be located above ground level (GL), as shown in Figures 21 and 22. In the example in Figures 21A and 21B, the flux generator includes only one flat magnetic field source 10 located above ground level as a raised mat on the ground. The mat has a thickness that extends upward from ground level when in use. In the example in Figures 22A and 22B, the flux generator 1 includes only one flat magnetic field source 10 located on a platform 13 raised above ground level (GL). The platform may be movable vertically. The platform may be connected to a mechanism (not shown) for moving the platform vertically (i.e., raising / lowering). For example, the mechanism may be an electric motor. Conveniently, this allows for changing the vertical position of the flux generator, and therefore its proximity to the chassis of the vehicle 30. This ensures that the battery pack 40 mounted on the vehicle is uniformly and sufficiently permeated by the magnetic field generated by each vehicle for various types of vehicles having chassis with different shapes / sizes and / or battery packs with different shapes / sizes / positions. The platform can be made movable horizontally, for example, for more precise alignment with the vehicle. The platform can be connected to a mechanism for moving the platform horizontally. For example, the mechanism can include an electric motor. The mechanism for moving the platform horizontally can also be a mechanism for moving the platform vertically (i.e., raising / lowering).

[0081] To achieve similar advantageous effects, the magnitude of the magnetic field generated by each magnetic field source 10 can be controlled to vary. This is shown in Figures 23A, 23B and 24A, 24B. Specifically, Figures 23A and 23B show pairs of vehicles 30, each equipped with its own battery pack 40. However, the vertical position of each battery pack 40 differs within the two vehicles. That is, the battery pack 40 in Figure 23B is higher than the battery pack incorporated inside the vehicle in Figure 23A. Therefore, the distance b between the ground surface GL and the upper wall of the battery pack in Figure 23B is greater than the distance a between the ground surface GL and the upper wall of the battery pack in Figure 23A, i.e., b > a. The magnitude of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field source 10 is changed to be larger in the case of Figure 23B to allow the magnetic field lines to pass through the battery pack sufficiently. Generally, the distance between the ground surface (GL) and the upper wall of the battery pack can be between 150mm and 1300mm, including 150mm and 1300mm. The distance between the ground surface and the lower wall of the battery pack can be between 100mm and 1000mm, including 100mm and 1000mm.

[0082] Figures 24A and 24B show the respective vehicles 30, each having its own battery pack 40, but the battery pack shown in Figure 24B is thicker than the battery pack in Figure 24A. That is, the vertical dimension b of the battery pack in Figure 24B is greater than the vertical dimension a of the battery pack in Figure 24A, i.e., b > a. Similarly, in the case of Figure 24B, the magnitude of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field source 10 changes accordingly to become larger in order to allow the magnetic field lines to pass through the battery pack sufficiently.

[0083] In addition to the flux generator 1 not mounted on the vehicle 30, the vehicle charging system 500 may include a magnetic field induction structure 14 mounted on and incorporated in the vehicle 30. The magnetic field induction structure includes one or more magnetically sensitive components. An example of a magnetic field induction structure is shown in Figure 25, in which the magnetic field induction structure includes a pair of metal plates 14 that abut against the upper and lower walls of the battery pack 40, respectively. Conveniently, the metal plates may be used to selectively direct the magnetic field lines of the generated magnetic field in a predetermined manner. For example, the physical arrangement of the metal plates can affect the distribution of magnetic field lines through a selected area in space, for example, to concentrate / divert the magnetic field lines to a particular spatial location. The metal plates 14 may also be used as heat sinks to provide thermal management for the battery pack and / or flux generator, in addition to performing the magnetic field induction function of the metal plates 14. In some embodiments, the magnetic field induction structure includes one or more flat plates, and in some embodiments, the magnetic field induction structure includes one or more curved plates. The magnetic field induction structure may include more complex structures, such as those containing curved, coil-shaped components.

[0084] Each of these magnetic fields can be a variable magnetic field. For example, each of these variable magnetic fields can be variable in one, two, and / or three spatial dimensions. In Figure 26, three spatial dimensions x (horizontal), y (perpendicular to the page of this figure), and z (vertical) are shown for the vehicle 30 and the battery pack 40.

[0085] Features disclosed in the above description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, in particular in those forms, or with respect to means for performing the disclosed functions or methods or processes for obtaining the disclosed results, may be used, as necessary, separately or in any combination of such features to implement the present invention in various forms.

[0086] While the present invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon being given this disclosure. In alternatives that are not currently embodiments, the battery packs and battery modules described herein may be applied to stationary applications and vehicles. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention described above are considered illustrative and not limiting. Various modifications to the described embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0087] To avoid any doubts, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided solely to enhance the reader's understanding. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

[0088] Any section headings used in this specification are for structural purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0089] Throughout this Specification, including the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise” and “include,” as well as variations such as “comprises,” “comprising,” and “including,” are understood to imply that they include the integer or process or group of integers or processes mentioned, but not to imply that they exclude any other integer or process or group of integers or processes.

[0090] When used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to multiple objects unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as “about” one particular value and / or “about” another particular value. Where such ranges are expressed, another embodiment includes the above one particular value and / or the above another particular value. Similarly, the use of the antecedent “about” means that when a value is expressed as an approximation, that particular value forms another embodiment. In relation to numbers, the term “about” is optional and can mean, for example, + / - 10%.

Claims

1. A magnetic flux generator configured to improve ion transport in one or more electrochemical cells housed in a battery pack mounted on a vehicle, A magnetic flux generator comprising one or more magnetic field sources, each configured to generate a magnetic field that passes through at least one of the one or more electrochemical cells.

2. The magnetic flux generator is the magnetic flux generator according to claim 1, which is mounted and incorporated into the vehicle.

3. The battery pack includes one or more battery modules, each of which contains a plurality of the one or more electrochemical cells. The magnetic flux generator is incorporated inside the battery pack, as described in claim 2.

4. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 3, wherein the magnetic flux generator includes a plurality of magnetic flux sources, and the battery pack includes a plurality of battery modules.

5. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of magnetic field sources are interposed between the plurality of battery modules.

6. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 5, wherein the magnetic flux generator includes at least the same number of magnetic field sources as the battery modules in the battery pack.

7. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 6, wherein the magnetic field source and the battery module in the battery pack are arranged such that each battery module is sandwiched between each pair of the plurality of magnetic field sources.

8. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of magnetic field sources are arranged inside each of the plurality of battery modules such that each battery module includes at least one of the plurality of magnetic field sources.

9. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 8, wherein each battery module includes a plurality of magnetic field sources interposed between the plurality of electrochemical cells within each of the battery modules.

10. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 8 or 9, wherein each battery module includes at least the same number of magnetic field sources as the electrochemical cells.

11. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 10, wherein the magnetic field sources and electrochemical cells in each battery module are arranged such that each electrochemical cell is sandwiched between each pair of the plurality of magnetic field sources.

12. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 2, wherein the magnetic flux generator is located outside the battery pack, and the one or more magnetic field sources are arranged adjacent to the battery pack.

13. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic flux generator is provided without being mounted on the vehicle.

14. The magnetic flux generator is provided below the ground surface, as described in claim 13.

15. The magnetic flux generator is provided above the ground surface, as described in claim 13.

16. The magnetic flux generator according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the magnetic field generated by at least one of the one or more magnetic field sources is a variable magnetic field.

17. The magnetic field generated by at least one of the one or more magnetic field sources has a frequency having a value of 50 Hz to 150 Hz, including 50 Hz and 150 Hz, according to claim 16.

18. The magnetic flux generator according to claim 16 or 17, wherein each of the changing magnetic fields is one of a rotating magnetic field, a pulsed magnetic field, and / or an oscillating magnetic field, or any combination thereof.

19. The magnetic flux generator according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein each of the changing magnetic fields is controllably variable in one, two, or three spatial dimensions.

20. The magnetic flux generator according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the magnitude of each magnetic field is controllably variable.

21. The magnetic flux generator according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein at least one of the one or more magnetic field sources includes one or more permanent magnets.

22. A magnetic flux generator according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein at least one of the one or more magnetic field sources includes one or more electromagnets.

23. A charging unit for charging the vehicle's battery pack, A magnetic flux generator according to any one of claims 13 to 15 and A vehicle charging system equipped with the following features.

24. The vehicle charging system according to claim 23, further comprising a magnetic field induction component mounted and incorporated in the aforementioned vehicle.

25. The vehicle charging system according to claim 24, wherein the magnetic field induction component includes at least one of one or more metal plates and / or one or more electromagnetic coils.

26. The vehicle charging system according to claim 24 or 25, wherein the magnetic field induction component is provided adjacent to the battery pack of the vehicle.

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