Apparatus for responding fire of electric vehicle and control method thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fire response device for an electric vehicle, comprising: a sensor module for detecting information regarding thermal runaway or fire in an electric vehicle battery pack; a processor for determining the occurrence of thermal runaway or fire in the battery pack based on information detected through the sensor module; a fire extinguishing module for injecting or spraying a fire extinguishing liquid into the interior of the battery pack and the interior of the electric vehicle under the control of the processor when thermal runaway or fire occurs in the battery pack; and an escape support module for supporting a driver or passenger to escape from the vehicle under the control of the processor when thermal runaway or fire occurs in the battery pack.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fire response device for an electric vehicle and a control method thereof, which can support the simultaneous suppression of a fire and the escape of passengers when a fire occurs in the battery pack of an electric vehicle. Background Technology

[0003] Generally, electric vehicles (EVs) may include pure electric vehicles (EVs) that operate solely on batteries charged with electric energy from an external source, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) that use an engine and a motor, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) that can be charged from an external power source.

[0004] Recently in Korea as well, due to the government's strengthening of environmental regulations, vehicle manufacturers are accelerating the development of eco-friendly electric vehicles such as EVs (Electric Vehicles) and PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) that have high fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions.

[0005] The battery packs used in these electric vehicles mainly utilize lithium secondary batteries, and are configured such that battery modules, in which these lithium secondary batteries are stacked in layers and electrically connected in series and / or parallel, are housed inside a metal case to protect against external shocks or moisture.

[0006] Battery packs using the above-mentioned lithium secondary batteries have the potential for multiple battery modules to ignite or explode due to thermal runaway, and since heat or flames are transferred to adjacent secondary batteries and cause secondary ignition or explosion, which can result in a very serious situation involving casualties, various fire extinguishing technologies are being actively developed to prevent such secondary ignition or explosion.

[0007] The background technology of the present invention is disclosed in Korean Registered Patent No. 10-2531013 (May 4, 2023).

[0008] The background technology discloses the injection of a fire extinguishing agent into the battery pack when a fire occurs inside the battery pack; however, there is a problem in that the extinguishing effect may be reduced because the influence of the extinguishing agent varies depending on the injection location of the extinguishing agent and the location (distance) where the fire occurred inside the battery pack.

[0009] In addition, due to the nature of battery fires, the fire spreads rapidly, so time must be secured for the driver (passenger) to escape the vehicle; however, there is a problem in that the underlying technology does not provide technology to support the driver's escape.

[0010] Accordingly, there is a need for technology that can effectively suppress a fire and simultaneously support passenger evacuation when a fire occurs in an electric vehicle's battery pack. The problem to be solved

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention is created to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a fire response device for an electric vehicle and a control method thereof that can support the simultaneous suppression of a fire and the evacuation of passengers when a fire occurs in the battery pack of an electric vehicle. means of solving the problem

[0014] A fire response device for an electric vehicle according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a sensor module for detecting information regarding thermal runaway or fire of an electric vehicle battery pack; a processor for determining the occurrence of thermal runaway or fire of the battery pack based on information detected through the sensor module; a fire extinguishing module for injecting or spraying a fire extinguishing liquid into the interior of the battery pack and the interior of the electric vehicle under the control of the processor when thermal runaway or fire of the battery pack occurs; and an escape support module for supporting a driver or passenger to escape from the vehicle under the control of the processor when thermal runaway or fire of the battery pack occurs.

[0015] In the present invention, the escape support module comprises an electric protruding flame barrier for blocking flames rising from the floor of the vehicle; and the flame barrier is characterized by having an end portion formed with a curved surface in the direction of the ground to enhance the flame blocking effect.

[0016] In the present invention, the escape support module is characterized by driving at least one of a suspension device, a window device, a door lock and a door device, and a seat device according to the control of the processor to support the escape of a driver or passenger from the vehicle.

[0017] In the present invention, the escape support module is characterized by adjusting the height or tilt of the vehicle using a suspension system, and by lowering the escape direction of the driver or passenger and raising the opposite direction, thereby minimizing flames in the escape direction to support the escape of the driver or passenger from the vehicle.

[0018] In the present invention, the escape support module is characterized by supporting the escape of a driver or passenger from a vehicle by unlocking the door locks on all doors and the trunk of the vehicle and opening the electric doors and the trunk, as well as opening the windows, under the control of the processor.

[0019] In the present invention, the escape support module is characterized by supporting the escape of a driver or passenger from a vehicle by automatically rotating the electric rotating seat in the escape direction simultaneously with the opening of the door device and the window device under the control of the processor, in the case of a vehicle equipped with an electric rotating seat.

[0020] In the present invention, when thermal runaway or fire occurs in the battery pack, the processor performs a fire report to a designated agency through a communication module, characterized by clearly specifying that the fire is of an electric vehicle battery pack.

[0021] In the present invention, when thermal runaway or fire occurs in a battery pack in a vehicle in driving mode, the processor limits the motor output and induces movement to a nearby safe area and parking; and if the driver does not respond, automatically moves to a safe area and parks through autonomous driving, thereby supporting the driver or passengers in escaping the vehicle.

[0022] In the present invention, when an automatic fire extinguisher is installed inside a vehicle, the processor unlocks the doors and trunk of all doors and trunks of the vehicle, opens the electric doors and trunk and opens the windows, and then sprays the fire extinguishing liquid of the automatic fire extinguisher onto the floor inside the vehicle to prevent the occurrence of a fire inside the vehicle, thereby supporting the driver or passengers in escaping the vehicle.

[0024] A control method for a fire response device of an electric vehicle according to another aspect of the present invention comprises: a step in which a processor of the electric vehicle determines that a thermal runaway or fire has occurred in a battery pack based on information detected through a sensor module; a step in which, when a thermal runaway or fire has occurred in the battery pack, the processor injects or sprays a fire extinguishing agent into the interior of the battery pack and the interior of the electric vehicle through the control of a fire extinguishing module; and a step in which, when a thermal runaway or fire has occurred in the battery pack, the processor supports a driver or passenger to escape from the vehicle through the control of an escape support module. Effects of the invention

[0026] According to one aspect of the present invention, the invention enables the suppression of a fire and simultaneous support for the escape of passengers when a fire occurs in a battery pack of an electric vehicle. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0028] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view illustrating a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a second fire extinguishing unit of a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second fire extinguishing unit of a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the supply of a primary fire extinguishing liquid for a fire prevention device of an electric vehicle battery according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the supply of a secondary fire extinguishing liquid for a fire prevention device of an electric vehicle battery according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a control method for a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is an exemplary diagram showing the schematic configuration of a fire response device for an electric vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a fire response device of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an escape support mode among the control methods of a fire response device of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is an example diagram showing the shape viewed from above and the front of the vehicle when the electric protruding flame barrier protrudes from the floor of the vehicle in FIG. 9. FIG. 13 is an example diagram showing a shape in which the escape direction is controlled low through the control of the suspension system so that flames are not emitted in the direction of the driver's escape in FIG. 9. FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the vehicle escape support operation in FIG. 11 when an automatic fire extinguisher is installed inside the vehicle in the escape support mode. FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the vehicle escape support operation in FIG. 11 when an electric rotating seat is installed inside the vehicle in the escape support mode. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0029] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a fire response device for an electric vehicle and a control method thereof according to the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. In this process, the thickness of lines or the size of components shown in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience of explanation. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined considering their functions in the present invention, and these may vary depending on the intention or convention of the user or operator. Therefore, the definitions of these terms should be based on the content throughout this specification.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view illustrating a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a second extinguishing unit of a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the operation of a second extinguishing unit of a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the supply of a primary extinguishing liquid of a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the supply of a secondary extinguishing liquid of a fire prevention device for an electric vehicle battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, a fire prevention device (1) for an electric vehicle battery according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a fire extinguishing module (10) and a processor (20).

[0033] The fire extinguishing module (10) can function as a configuration that supplies fire extinguishing liquid to a battery pack (2) in which a battery module is placed.

[0034] For example, the fire extinguishing module (10) can be configured in a form that is installed inside the vehicle and in a form that can supply fire extinguishing liquid from outside the vehicle.

[0035] More specifically, the fire extinguishing module (10) may include a first fire extinguishing unit (100) that is provided inside the vehicle to suppress thermal runaway of the battery pack and a second fire extinguishing unit (150) that injects fire extinguishing liquid from outside the vehicle.

[0036] The digestion liquid can consist of CO2 gas, liquid nitrogen, etc.

[0037] The first fire extinguishing unit (100) can function as a component responsible for initial cooling and extinguishing. In an electric vehicle equipped with a high-voltage battery, hundreds of cells are assembled to form a battery module, and due to the nature of these battery modules assembling to form a battery pack (2), if thermal runaway starts in one cell, the fire spreads to other cells, so it is important to cool and extinguish the battery temperature within a short period of time.

[0038] The first fire extinguishing unit (100) may include a fire extinguishing tank (110), a first connecting tube (120), and a shut-off valve (130).

[0039] A fire extinguishing tank (110) is provided inside the vehicle and can be filled with fire extinguishing liquid.

[0040] These fire extinguishing tanks (110) may include a first fire extinguishing tank (112) provided at the front of the vehicle and a second fire extinguishing tank (114) provided at the rear of the vehicle.

[0041] The first fire extinguishing tank (112) may be provided in the frunk of the vehicle, and the second fire extinguishing tank (114) may be provided in the trunk of the vehicle. This may function as a configuration to facilitate maintenance of the fire extinguishing tank (110).

[0042] In this embodiment, two fire extinguishing tanks (110) are shown, but this is not limited thereto, and multiple fire extinguishing tanks (110) may be provided at various locations on the vehicle.

[0043] The first connecting tube (120) can function as a configuration connecting the fire extinguishing tank (110) and the battery pack (2).

[0044] The first connecting tube (120) may be made of a flexible tube made of stainless steel.

[0045] The first connecting tube (120) is formed in multiple numbers extending to each of the first fire extinguishing tank (112) and the second fire extinguishing tank (114) and can be connected to the battery pack (2).

[0046] For example, the first connecting tube (120) may be formed as a pair extending to both sides of each of the first fire extinguishing tank (112) and the second fire extinguishing tank (114) and connected to all sides of the battery pack (2).

[0047] That is, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the first connecting tube (120) extending from the first fire extinguishing tank (112) can be connected to both front sides of the battery pack (2), and the first connecting tube (120) extending from the second fire extinguishing tank (114) can be connected to both rear sides of the battery pack (2).

[0048] This is a configuration for injecting a fire extinguishing agent into the battery module side where thermal runaway occurred, that is, the corresponding location of the battery pack (2).

[0049] The shut-off valve (130) is provided in the first connecting tube (120) and is operated by the processor (20), and can function to control the injection of fire extinguishing fluid.

[0050] The shut-off valve (130) normally blocks the pressure of the extinguishing liquid and can be opened by the operation of the processor (20) to supply the extinguishing liquid of the extinguishing tank (110) to the battery pack (2).

[0051] The second fire extinguishing unit (150) can function as a configuration that supplies fire extinguishing liquid to the battery pack (2) by being connected to an external device capable of injecting fire extinguishing liquid.

[0052] The second fire extinguishing unit (150) may include a fire extinguishing liquid inlet (160) formed in the vehicle, a second connecting tube (170) connecting the fire extinguishing liquid inlet (160) and the battery pack (2), and a fire extinguishing cover (180) provided on the second connecting tube (170) and opening and closing the second connecting tube (170) by a processor (20).

[0053] The fire extinguishing liquid injection port (160) is formed on the outer surface of the vehicle, and the second connecting tube (170) can be made of a flexible tube made of stainless steel, just like the first connecting tube (120).

[0054] The second fire extinguishing unit (150) may be provided in multiple units on the vehicle. As shown in FIG. 3, the second fire extinguishing unit (150) may be formed on both sides of the front and both sides of the rear of the vehicle.

[0055] A second connecting tube (170) can be extended from a fire extinguishing fluid injection port (160) formed on both sides of the front and rear of the vehicle and connected to both sides of the front and rear of the battery pack (2).

[0056] At this time, the first connecting tube (120) is connected to the second connecting tube (170) to inject the fire extinguishing liquid from the fire extinguishing tank (110) into the battery pack (2). That is, the first connecting tube (120) can be branched from the second connecting tube (170) and connected to each fire extinguishing tank (110), and it is preferable that the first connecting tube (120) be connected adjacent to the connection point between the battery pack (2) and the second connecting tube (170).

[0057] The fire extinguishing cover (180) may include an injection port cover portion (182) formed in the fire extinguishing liquid injection port (160) and automatically opened by the processor (20), and an injection cover (185) provided in the second connecting tube (170) and opened in the direction of fire extinguishing liquid injection.

[0058] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the filler cover portion (182) may include a filler door (183) that is hinged to the vehicle and elastically supported outwardly, and an actuator (184) that controls the opening of the filler door (183). More specifically, the actuator (184) has a latch (184a) formed to restrain the filler door (183), and as the latch (184a) slides when the actuator (184) operates, the filler door (183) can be opened outward by elastic force.

[0059] The injection cover (185) may also be hinge-connected to one end of the second connecting tube (170) and structured to be elastically supported inward. Due to this structure, the injection cover (185) can be opened only in the direction of injection of the digestive fluid injected through the digestive fluid injection port (160), and prevents the digestive fluid from flowing back through the digestive fluid injection port (160) when the digestive fluid is injected through the first connecting tube (120).

[0060] The processor (20) may include a plurality of sensor modules (200) placed in the battery pack (2).

[0061] The sensor module (200) can function as a configuration for detecting thermal runaway of a battery module provided within the battery pack (2). This sensor module (200) may be composed of a temperature sensor.

[0062] In this embodiment, a temperature sensor is applied as the sensor module (200) for detecting thermal runaway of the battery module, but it is not limited thereto. Various sensors capable of detecting thermal runaway, such as pressure sensors and image sensors, may be applied, and various modifications are possible, such as applying various sensors in combination.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 3, the area of ​​the battery pack (2) may be divided into four sections, and each section may be equipped with a sensor module (200).

[0064] Each sensor module (200) can detect thermal runaway in the corresponding area, and when thermal runaway occurs in the corresponding area, a fire extinguishing agent can be injected into the thermal runaway area based on the detection value of the sensor module (200).

[0065] To explain this in detail, as illustrated in FIG. 6, when a set temperature (45°C) is detected from the sensor module (200) of area A, the shut-off valve (130) of the first connecting tube (120) corresponding to area A is opened, and the extinguishing liquid of the first extinguishing tank (112) is supplied to perform cooling extinguishing that lowers the temperature of the thermal runaway area of ​​the battery pack (2) in an early time.

[0066] As a result, by suppressing thermal runaway of the battery module, the spread of fire to adjacent cells and other battery modules can be delayed.

[0067] Afterwards, digestive fluid can be injected through external equipment via the open digestive fluid injection port (160).

[0068] Meanwhile, the processor (20) may include a notification unit (210) that alerts of danger when thermal runaway occurs in the battery pack (2).

[0069] The notification unit (210) may include a transmission unit (212) that transmits a danger warning to the occupants of the vehicle and a wireless communication unit (214) that transmits vehicle information to an external server.

[0070] The transmitting unit (212) may include a display unit or a speaker provided in the vehicle. It may display a warning message or a specific warning screen through the display unit, or provide a specific warning sound or warning voice through the speaker.

[0071] Also, information transmitted to an external server via the wireless communication unit (214) can be transmitted to the 119 fire department, adjacent vehicles, etc.

[0072] Hereinafter, a control method for an electric vehicle battery fire prevention device according to one embodiment of the present invention is described as follows.

[0073] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a control method for an electric vehicle battery fire prevention device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] In this embodiment, when thermal runaway occurs in the battery module, the safety of the occupant is secured through the notification unit (210), and the fire can be suppressed by transmitting vehicle information to an external server. Additionally, the time required for fire suppression is secured by performing cooling extinguishing to suppress the initial thermal runaway through the first extinguishing unit (100), and fire suppression can be achieved through the second extinguishing unit (150).

[0075] Thermal runaway of the battery pack (2) is detected (S100). As illustrated in FIG. 3, the battery pack is divided into four regions, and a sensor module (200) is placed in each region, and each sensor module (200) can detect thermal runaway by detecting the temperature of each region. Thermal runaway means that the set temperature reaches 45℃.

[0076] When thermal runaway of the battery pack (2) occurs, that is, when the set temperature reaches 45℃ (S200), the sensor module (200) can detect the thermal runaway in advance and send a danger warning (S300).

[0077] A warning of the risk of thermal runaway in the battery pack (2) can be provided through a transmission unit (212) and a wireless communication unit (214) provided in the vehicle. The risk warning can be provided by displaying a warning message or a specific warning screen through a display unit, or by providing a warning sound or warning voice through a speaker to ensure the safety of the occupant, and vehicle information can be transmitted to an external server through the wireless communication unit (214) and spread to the 119 fire department or adjacent vehicles.

[0078] Afterward, a first extinguishing liquid is injected into the location of the thermal runaway in the battery pack (2) (S400). This is performed by cooling extinguishing by the first extinguishing unit (100), and as shown in FIG. 6, the first extinguishing liquid of the extinguishing tank (110) can be injected through the first connecting tube (120) corresponding to area A where the thermal runaway is detected. At this time, although not shown, if a thermal runaway is detected in an area other than area A, the first extinguishing liquid of the extinguishing tank (110) can be injected through the first connecting tube (120) corresponding to that area.

[0079] In this way, since the extinguishing liquid of the extinguishing tank (110) can be directly injected into the area, the extinguishing liquid is not dispersed, so the cooling extinguishing effect can be maximized.

[0080] In addition, by suppressing thermal runaway through the cooling and extinguishing effect of the first extinguishing unit (100), the spread of fire to adjacent cells and other battery modules can be delayed, and time can be secured for external equipment, such as a fire truck, to arrive to suppress the fire.

[0081] Afterwards, the actuator (184) is actuated by a signal from the processor (20) so that the injection door (183) is opened, allowing external equipment to be connected, and the fire can be extinguished by injecting the fire extinguishing liquid from the external equipment into the battery pack (2) through the second connecting tube (170) as shown in FIG. 7 (S500).

[0082] As described above, according to the present invention, thermal runaway of the battery module can be detected in advance by a sensor module provided in the battery pack, and a fire can be prevented in advance through a fire extinguishing module. In particular, cooling extinguishing is possible to lower the temperature of the battery module in an early time during thermal runaway by a first fire extinguishing unit provided inside the vehicle, thereby ensuring the safety of the occupants and securing time for external equipment to arrive.

[0083] In addition, the present invention allows the battery pack to be divided into multiple regions and equipped with a sensor module corresponding to each region, thereby enabling the identification of the location of thermal runaway and the direct injection of fire extinguishing liquid into that location, which can improve fire suppression efficiency.

[0084] FIG. 9 is an exemplary diagram showing the schematic configuration of a fire response device for an electric vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the fire response device of an electric vehicle according to the present embodiment includes a sensor module (310), a processor (320), a fire extinguishing module (330), an escape support module (340), a communication module (350), and a warning module (360).

[0086] The sensor module (310) includes a plurality of sensors for detecting fire in the battery pack.

[0087] For example, the sensor module (310) may include a temperature sensor, an infrared sensor, a flame (fire) detection sensor, and a smoke detection sensor.

[0088] The processor (320) can determine the occurrence of thermal runaway and fire in the battery pack based on information detected through the sensor module (310).

[0089] When the processor (320) detects thermal runaway and fire in the battery pack, it controls the fire extinguishing module (330), escape support module (340), communication module (350), and warning module (260) to suppress the fire and simultaneously support the escape of the driver (or passenger).

[0090] The processor (320) can perform autonomous driving functions using artificial intelligence (AI).

[0091] For example, if the processor (320) detects a fire in the battery pack while driving, it can turn on the hazard lights and drive from the road toward the shoulder and park on the shoulder.

[0092] The fire extinguishing module (330) may include an automatic fire extinguisher capable of automatically spraying a fire extinguishing liquid (or fire extinguishing agent) by means of an electronic relay.

[0093] The fire extinguishing module (330) can be installed to spray a fire extinguishing liquid (or fire extinguishing agent) inside the battery pack and inside the vehicle, respectively, under the control of the processor (320).

[0094] The specific form and operation of the fire extinguishing module (330) are as described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8.

[0095] The escape support module (340) supports the driver (or passenger) in securing time to escape from the vehicle by taking into account the characteristic that the fire spreads rapidly due to the characteristics of the battery fire.

[0096] The escape support module (340) may include an electric protruding flame barrier (341) to block flames rising from the floor of the vehicle when the vehicle door is opened.

[0097] At this time, the flame barrier (341) may have its end portion curved downward (toward the ground) to enhance the flame blocking effect (see FIG. 4).

[0098] FIG. 12 is an example diagram showing the shape viewed from above and the front of the vehicle when the electric protruding flame barrier protrudes from the floor of the vehicle in FIG. 9.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 12, the end portion of the flame barrier (341) protruding from the floor of the vehicle is curved downward (toward the ground), thereby blocking the flame generated on the floor of the vehicle from rising along the side of the vehicle, so that the flame is radiated downward (toward the ground), thereby supporting the driver (or passenger) to safely escape from the flame.

[0100] The flame barrier (341) may be installed on the floor on the driver's side and protrude, or installed on the floor on the passenger's side and protrude.

[0101] The escape support module (340) can drive a suspension device (not shown) under the control of the processor (320) to support the driver (or passenger) in escaping the vehicle.

[0102] The escape support module (340) can drive a window device (not shown) under the control of the processor (320) to support the driver (or passenger) in escaping the vehicle.

[0103] The escape support module (340) can drive a door device (not shown) under the control of the processor (320) to support the driver (or passenger) in escaping the vehicle.

[0104] The escape support module (340) can drive a seat device (not shown) under the control of the processor (320) to support the driver (or passenger) in escaping the vehicle.

[0105] At this time, the suspension system (not shown), window system (not shown), door system (including door lock) (not shown), and seat system (not shown) may be operated electrically, and depending on the type of vehicle, may be operated hydraulically.

[0106] A suspension system (not shown) can support the driver (or passenger)'s escape from the vehicle by minimizing the flame in the direction of escape, taking into account the characteristics of flames moving from a low place to a high place (see FIG. 5). This is achieved by raising the vehicle in the direction where the driver (or passenger) is not present (e.g., left, right, front, rear), that is, by lowering the direction of escape for the driver (or passenger) and raising the opposite direction (see FIG. 5).

[0107] FIG. 13 is an example diagram showing a shape in which the escape direction is controlled to be lower through the control of the suspension system in order to prevent flames from being emitted in the direction of the driver's escape in FIG. 9. In this case, it is desirable to control the vehicle's tilt to be lower in the direction of the driver's (or passenger's) escape (i.e., the direction closer to the driver or passenger).

[0108] Since the door device (not shown) may become unable to open if the fire spreads, the processor (320) releases the door lock as soon as the fire occurs, and additionally, if it is an electric door, opens the door electrically.

[0109] Since the window device (not shown), like the door device (not shown), may become impossible to open if the fire spreads, the processor (320) opens the window as soon as the fire occurs.

[0110] The seat device (not shown) includes an electric rotating seat.

[0111] Electric swivel seats can only be installed in some high-end or luxury car models.

[0112] Accordingly, in the case of a vehicle equipped with an electric rotating seat, the processor (320) automatically rotates the electric rotating seat in the escape direction simultaneously with the opening of the door device (not shown) and the window device (not shown).

[0113] The communication module (350) reports the fire to a designated agency (e.g., 119 fire department, police station, vehicle manufacturer, insurance company, etc.) when a fire occurs in the battery pack.

[0114] However, while the function of reporting a fire when a vehicle fire occurs may already be a function that can be implemented, the fire reporting referred to in this embodiment differs in that it clearly specifies that the fire is of the electric vehicle battery pack.

[0115] Accordingly, the 119 Fire Department is made sufficiently prepared to suppress battery pack fires (or to prepare fire trucks for suppressing battery fires). This can achieve the effect of shortening fire suppression time and preventing the spread of fire.

[0116] The communication module (350) may include an OTA (Over the Air) within the vehicle or a user's mobile terminal (e.g., a smartphone) linked to the vehicle. That is, a fire report of the electric vehicle battery pack can be performed using an OTA (Over the Air) within the vehicle or a user's mobile terminal (e.g., a smartphone) linked to the vehicle.

[0117] The warning module (360) can output a warning broadcast (or warning sound) to the inside and outside of the vehicle.

[0118] The warning module (360) can output a warning visually and audibly through a cluster (instrument panel), an AVN (Audio Video Navigation) device, and a speaker.

[0119] For example, the warning module (360) can continuously warn the driver (or passenger) to unbuckle the seatbelt when the vehicle stops (or is parked). This has the effect of supporting the driver (or passenger) to safely escape from the flames by preventing a situation where the driver (or passenger), who is usually disoriented due to a fire, is unable to escape due to the seatbelt when attempting to escape unconsciously.

[0120] The warning module (360) can automatically turn on the emergency light to output a warning.

[0121] By outputting a warning to the inside and outside of the vehicle through the warning module (360), a driver (or passenger) who is asleep or unconscious inside the vehicle can be made to wake up and escape the vehicle, or a secondary fire accident can be prevented by preventing access to the burning vehicle from the outside or by moving away from the burning vehicle.

[0122] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a fire response device of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 10, the processor (320) checks the mode (state) of the vehicle (S301).

[0124] The vehicle's mode (state) can be any one of a driving mode (S302), a charging mode (S303), and a parking mode (S304).

[0125] The processor (320) monitors the condition of the battery pack (e.g., temperature, flame, smoke, etc.) in common during driving mode (S302), charging mode (S303), and parking mode (S304), and outputs a warning when the value of the monitored battery pack exceeds a specified standard (S305).

[0126] When the vehicle is in driving mode (i.e., the vehicle is in motion) (S306 is an example), the processor (320) limits the motor output and induces the vehicle to move to a safe area nearby (e.g., a nearby shoulder, etc.) and park (warning, guidance) (S307).

[0127] The processor (320) can induce (warn, guide) the driver to move to a safe area (e.g., nearby shoulder) and park, and if the driver does not respond to this, if the vehicle is capable of autonomous driving, it can automatically move to a safe area (e.g., nearby shoulder) and park.

[0128] In particular, in the case of a battery pack fire, the spread of the fire is so rapid that the vehicle can be completely burned within minutes, so the operation is performed within a designated time (e.g., 1 to 2 minutes) taking this into consideration.

[0129] The processor (320) performs a 119 fire report (i.e., a fire report of the electric vehicle battery pack) and simultaneously drives the fire extinguishing module (330) and the escape support module (340) to support the driver (or passenger) in escaping the vehicle (S308).

[0130] When the vehicle is not in driving mode (i.e., the vehicle is charging or parked) (S306 is not), the processor (320) immediately performs a 119 fire report (i.e., a fire report of the electric vehicle battery pack) and simultaneously activates the fire extinguishing module (330) and the escape support module (340) to support the driver (or passenger) in escaping the vehicle (S308).

[0131] At this time, even when the driver (or passenger) is not inside the vehicle in charging mode or parking mode, by operating the fire extinguishing module (330) and the escape support module (340), the spread of the fire is prevented as much as possible until the 119 fire department arrives and begins full-scale fire suppression.

[0132] In addition, when the 119 fire department arrives and begins full-scale fire suppression, having all vehicle doors and windows open helps in the fire suppression process.

[0133] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an escape support mode among the control methods of a fire response device of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 11, when the processor (320) is in escape support mode (e.g., S401), it unlocks all door locks of the vehicle and performs all door opening and trunk opening (S402).

[0135] By opening all doors and the trunk in this manner, it has the effect of supporting the driver (or passenger) to quickly escape through the nearest door (or trunk). Additionally, it has the effect of enabling assistance through the nearest door (or trunk) even when the driver (or passenger) has difficulty moving and external help is required.

[0136] Also, the processor (320) opens the windows of all doors (S403).

[0137] This has the effect of allowing the driver (or passenger) to escape through the window of the nearest door by opening the window, even if the door cannot be opened because the circuit affected by the fire has already been damaged.

[0138] In addition, the processor (320) drives the suspension (not shown) to lower the direction in which the driver (or passenger) is escaping and raise the opposite direction (S404), thereby minimizing flames in the direction of escape and having the effect of supporting the driver (or passenger)'s escape from the vehicle.

[0139] This is intended to minimize flames in the direction of escape by raising the vehicle in the direction where the driver (or passenger) is not present (e.g., left, right, front, rear), taking into account the characteristics of flame movement, when supporting the escape of the driver (or passenger) from the vehicle.

[0140] In addition, if the vehicle includes a flame barrier (341) (e.g., S405), the processor (320) drives the flame barrier (341) installed on the vehicle floor in the direction of escape of the driver (or passenger) to protrude (S406), thereby blocking the flame generated on the vehicle floor from rising along the side of the vehicle, that is, causing the flame to radiate downward (toward the ground), thereby having the effect of supporting the driver (or passenger) to safely escape from the flame.

[0141] FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the vehicle escape support operation in FIG. 11 when an automatic fire extinguisher is installed inside the vehicle in the escape support mode.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 14, if an automatic fire extinguisher is installed inside the vehicle (e.g., S501), the processor (320) unlocks all door locks of the vehicle and performs all door opening and trunk opening (S502).

[0143] Also, the processor (320) opens the windows of all doors (S503).

[0144] Additionally, the processor (320) sprays the fire extinguishing liquid of the automatic fire extinguisher onto the floor inside the vehicle (S504).

[0145] Since high temperatures are generated very quickly due to the nature of battery pack fires, which can cause a fire on the interior floor of the vehicle, this system has the effect of preventing the occurrence of a fire inside the vehicle by immediately spraying fire extinguishing liquid onto the interior floor when the vehicle doors and windows are open to allow ventilation, thereby supporting the driver (or passengers) in safely escaping from the flames.

[0146] FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the vehicle escape support operation in FIG. 11 when an electric rotating seat is installed inside the vehicle in the escape support mode.

[0147] Referring to FIG. 15, if the vehicle is equipped with an electric rotating seat (e.g., S601), the processor (320) unlocks all door locks of the vehicle, opens all doors and the trunk, and also opens the windows of all doors (S602 to S603).

[0148] Additionally, the processor (320) automatically rotates the electric rotating seat toward the open door direction (S604).

[0149] This has the effect of allowing the driver (or passenger) to be easily pulled out from the outside by rotating the electric swivel seat toward the open door in situations where the driver (or passenger) may become paralyzed and unable to move due to panic caused by a vehicle fire, and also supports the driver (or passenger) in escaping the vehicle on their own, even if they have to crawl.

[0150] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the claims below. Furthermore, the implementations described herein may be implemented, for example, as methods or processes, devices, software programs, data streams, or signals. Even if discussed only in the context of a single form of implementation (e.g., discussed only as a method), the implementation of the discussed features may also be implemented in other forms (e.g., devices or programs). Devices may be implemented in appropriate hardware, software, and firmware, etc. Methods may be implemented in devices such as processors, which generally refer to processing devices including, for example, computers, microprocessors, integrated circuits, or programmable logic devices. Processors also include communication devices such as computers, cell phones, portable / personal digital assistants ("PDAs"), and other devices that facilitate the communication of information between end-users. Explanation of the symbols

[0152] 1 : Fire prevention device 2 : Battery pack 10,330 : Fire suppression module 20,200 : Processor 100 : 1st Firefighting Unit 110 : Firefighting Tank 112 : 1st Fire Tank 114 : 2nd Fire Tank 120 : First connecting tube 130 : Shut-off valve 150: Second firefighting unit 160: Fire extinguishing fluid inlet 170 : Second connecting tube 180 : Fire extinguisher cover 182: Inlet cover 183: Inlet door 184: Actuator 184a: Latch 210 : Notification Unit 212 : Transmission Unit 214 : Wireless communication unit 310 : Sensor module 320 : Processor 340 : Escape Support Module 350: Communication module 360: Warning module

Claims

Claim 1 A fire response device for an electric vehicle comprising: a sensor module for detecting information regarding thermal runaway or fire in an electric vehicle battery pack; a processor for determining the occurrence of thermal runaway or fire in the battery pack based on information detected through the sensor module; a fire extinguishing module for injecting or spraying a fire extinguishing liquid into the interior of the battery pack and the interior of the electric vehicle under the control of the processor when thermal runaway or fire occurs in the battery pack; and an escape support module for supporting a driver or passenger to escape from the vehicle under the control of the processor when thermal runaway or fire occurs in the battery pack, wherein the escape support module supports the driver or passenger's escape from the vehicle by adjusting the height or tilt of the vehicle using a suspension system, thereby lowering the escape direction of the driver or passenger and raising the opposite direction, thereby minimizing flames in the escape direction. Claim 2 A fire response device for an electric vehicle comprising: a sensor module for detecting information regarding thermal runaway or fire of an electric vehicle battery pack; a processor for determining the occurrence of thermal runaway or fire of the battery pack based on information detected through the sensor module; a fire extinguishing module for injecting or spraying a fire extinguishing liquid into the interior of the battery pack and the interior of the electric vehicle under the control of the processor when thermal runaway or fire of the battery pack occurs; and an escape support module for supporting a driver or passenger to escape from the vehicle under the control of the processor when thermal runaway or fire of the battery pack occurs, wherein the escape support module includes an electric protruding flame barrier for blocking flames rising from the floor of the vehicle, and wherein the flame barrier is characterized by having an end portion formed with a curved surface facing the ground to enhance the flame blocking effect. Claim 3 A fire response device for an electric vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the escape support module drives at least one of a suspension device, a window device, a door lock and a door device, and a seat device under the control of the processor to support the escape of a driver or passenger from the vehicle. Claim 4 delete Claim 5 A fire response device for an electric vehicle according to claim 3, wherein the escape support module supports the escape of a driver or passenger from the vehicle by unlocking door locks on all doors and the trunk of the vehicle and opening the electric doors and trunk, as well as opening the windows, under the control of the processor. Claim 6 A fire response device for an electric vehicle according to claim 3, wherein the escape support module supports the escape of a driver or passenger from the vehicle by automatically rotating the electric swivel seat in the escape direction simultaneously with the opening of the door device and the window device under the control of the processor in the case of a vehicle equipped with an electric swivel seat. Claim 7 A fire response device for an electric vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the event of thermal runaway or fire of the battery pack, the processor performs a fire report to a designated agency through a communication module, and clearly designates that the fire report is of the electric vehicle battery pack. Claim 8 A fire response device for an electric vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the event of thermal runaway or fire of a battery pack in a vehicle in driving mode, the processor limits motor output, induces movement to a nearby safe area and parking, and if the driver does not respond, automatically moves to a safe area and parks through autonomous driving to support the driver or passenger's escape from the vehicle. Claim 9 A fire response device for an electric vehicle according to claim 1, wherein if an automatic fire extinguisher is installed inside the vehicle, the processor unlocks the door locks for all doors and the trunk of the vehicle, opens the electric doors and the trunk and the windows, and then sprays the extinguishing liquid of the automatic fire extinguisher onto the floor inside the vehicle to prevent the occurrence of a fire inside the vehicle, thereby supporting the escape of the driver or passengers from the vehicle. Claim 10 A control method for a fire response device of an electric vehicle, comprising: a step in which a processor of an electric vehicle determines the occurrence of thermal runaway or fire in a battery pack based on information detected through a sensor module; a step in which, when thermal runaway or fire occurs in the battery pack, the processor injects or sprays a fire extinguishing liquid into the interior of the battery pack and the interior of the electric vehicle through the control of a fire extinguishing module; and a step in which, when thermal runaway or fire occurs in the battery pack, the processor supports the driver or passenger to escape from the vehicle through the control of an escape support module; wherein the escape support module supports the driver or passenger's escape from the vehicle by adjusting the height or tilt of the vehicle using a suspension device, thereby lowering the escape direction of the driver or passenger and raising the opposite direction, thereby minimizing flames in the escape direction.

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