Battery pack moisture sensing module, moisture sensing device using same, and battery pack protection method

Abstract

The present invention provides a battery pack moisture sensing module, a moisture sensing device using same, and a battery pack protection method. The battery pack moisture sensing module comprises: a case having a predetermined space therein; a first dielectric formed on at least a portion of the inner surface of the case; a second dielectric formed, to a predetermined height from the lower surface of the case, inside the case; and a moisture sensing unit that is connected to the second dielectric and detects moisture that penetrates into the case.

Description

Battery pack moisture detection module, moisture detection device using the same, and battery pack protection method

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack, and more particularly, to a module for detecting moisture penetrating into a battery pack, a moisture detection device using the same, and a method for protecting a battery pack.

[0002]

[0003] Rechargeable secondary cells, or batteries, are widely used as energy sources for mobile devices such as smartphones. Furthermore, batteries are also being used as energy sources for eco-friendly vehicles, such as electric and hybrid electric vehicles, which are being proposed as a solution to air pollution caused by fossil fuel-powered gasoline and diesel vehicles. The types of applications utilizing batteries are becoming increasingly diverse, and batteries are expected to be applied to a wider range of fields and products in the future.

[0004] Currently commercially available batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are gaining attention for their advantages: virtually no memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, allowing for easy charging and discharging, a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density. Furthermore, lithium-ion batteries can be manufactured in small, lightweight designs, making them ideal power sources for mobile devices. Their expanding applications, including powering electric vehicles, are attracting attention as a next-generation energy storage medium.

[0005] These batteries are typically used in the form of battery packs rather than as individual cells. A battery pack includes at least one battery module, which may be comprised of multiple battery cells. Battery packs are being developed with high-capacity and high-voltage specifications to meet consumer demands for longer life and more powerful operation. Furthermore, a battery management system (BMS) is installed to manage the overall health of the battery cells, modules, or packs. The BMS monitors battery performance, status, and diagnoses to ensure stable battery operation.

[0006] Meanwhile, battery packs are vulnerable to moisture and therefore adopt a waterproof structure. To prevent moisture infiltration, various techniques have been used, such as filling the interior with waterproofing fluid or coating the battery pack. Furthermore, since performance rapidly deteriorates if the waterproof structure is lost, rapid detection of loss or submersion is essential. However, conventional methods for detecting moisture intrusion inside the battery pack and implementing safety measures have been inadequate.

[0007] Related prior art documents include the following:

[0008] Korean Patent Publication No. 2023-0061042

[0009] Korean Patent Publication No. 2021-0037459

[0010]

[0011] The present invention provides a battery pack moisture detection module capable of detecting moisture penetrating into a battery pack, a moisture detection device using the same, and a battery pack protection method.

[0012] The present invention provides a battery pack moisture detection module that detects moisture penetrating into the inside of a battery pack to enable safe operation of the battery pack, a moisture detection device using the same, and a battery pack protection method.

[0013]

[0014] A battery pack moisture detection module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a case having a predetermined space therein, a first dielectric formed on at least a portion of an inner surface of the case, a second dielectric formed at a predetermined height from a lower surface of the case inside the case, and a moisture detection unit electrically connected to the second dielectric to detect moisture penetrating into the case.

[0015] It further includes an external connection terminal that is connected to the second dielectric and extends to the outside of the case to electrically connect the inside and the outside of the case.

[0016] It includes a first moisture penetration hole formed in the case on the lower side of the second dielectric, and a second moisture penetration hole formed in the case on the upper side of the other dielectric.

[0017] It further includes an extension formed extending from the second moisture penetration port into the interior of the case.

[0018] The first dielectric has an upper portion that is electrically open and a lower portion that is connected to ground.

[0019] The second dielectric is formed with a predetermined height and width from one side wall of the case to the opposite side wall to divide the internal space of the case.

[0020] The surface of the above second dielectric is coated with an insulator.

[0021] The above moisture detection unit includes a plurality of resistors formed on one side and the other side of the second dielectric, and the resistance changes according to the amount of moisture flowing into the case, thereby detecting moisture penetration and the amount of moisture.

[0022] The moisture detection unit includes first and second resistors formed spaced apart from each other in the height direction on one side of the second dielectric, and a third resistor formed on the other side of the second dielectric.

[0023] The above moisture detection unit sequentially submerges the first to third resistors according to the amount of moisture penetrating into the case or the direction of moisture penetration, and the resistance value changes accordingly.

[0024]

[0025] In addition, a battery pack moisture detection device according to another embodiment of the present invention is provided with a reference voltage (V ref ) and reference resistance (R ref ) and a moisture detection module that detects moisture flowing into the battery pack according to the change in resistance, and the reference voltage (V ref ) by the resistance value of the moisture detection module, the input voltage (V in ) includes a control unit that determines whether moisture has penetrated and the amount of moisture has penetrated.

[0026] The above control unit inputs voltage (V in ) is the reference voltage (V ref ) is the same, it is judged that moisture has not penetrated.

[0027] The above control unit inputs voltage (V in ) is the first input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 1] in1 ) it is determined that the first amount of moisture has penetrated from the bottom of the moisture detection module.

[0028] [Mathematical Formula 1]

[0029]

[0030] Here, R1 is the first resistance value of the first resistor of the moisture detection module.

[0031] The above control unit inputs voltage (V in ) is the second input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 2] in2 ) it is determined that a second amount of moisture greater than the first amount has penetrated from the bottom of the moisture detection module.

[0032] [Equation 2]

[0033]

[0034] Here, R1 and R2 are the first and second resistance values ​​of the first and second resistors of the moisture detection module, respectively.

[0035] The above control unit inputs voltage (V in ) is the third input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 3] in3 ) it is determined that a third amount of moisture, which is greater than the second amount, has penetrated from the bottom of the moisture detection module.

[0036] [Equation 3]

[0037]

[0038] Here, R1, R2, and R3 are the first to third resistance values ​​of the first to third resistors of the moisture detection module, respectively.

[0039] The above control unit inputs voltage (V in ) is the fourth input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 4] in4 ) it is determined that moisture has penetrated from the top of the moisture detection module.

[0040] [Equation 4]

[0041]

[0042] Here, R3 is the third resistance value of the third resistor of the moisture detection module.

[0043]

[0044] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a battery pack protection method using a battery pack moisture detection device according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein an input voltage (V) is applied according to the amount of moisture detected by a moisture detection module. in ) and the process of judging the input voltage (V in ) is the reference voltage (V ref ) is the same as the input voltage (V), it is judged that moisture has not penetrated and the process of performing normal operation is performed, and the input voltage (V in ) is the first input voltage (V in1 ) and determines that the first amount of moisture has penetrated, and sends a warning message to the user, and the input voltage (V in ) is the second input voltage (V in2 ) is judged to have penetrated a second amount of moisture greater than the first amount, and a process of performing a battery pack protection operation is performed, and the input voltage (V in ) is the third input voltage (V in3 ) or the fourth input voltage (V in4 ) and a process for stopping the operation of the battery pack when it is determined that moisture has penetrated from the upper part of the moisture detection module or a third amount of moisture greater than the second amount has penetrated from the lower part of the moisture detection module.

[0045]

[0046] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack moisture detection module is provided in a central portion of a case having a predetermined space, and a moisture detection unit that detects moisture is connected to the second dielectric, so as to detect moisture penetrating through first and second moisture inlets formed at the lower and upper portions of the case, respectively. At this time, the moisture detection unit may be formed of a resistor having a predetermined resistance value due to moisture, and may be formed of a plurality of resistors so that the resistance value changes according to the amount of moisture penetration. In addition, the battery pack moisture detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention can detect the amount of moisture from the resistance of the moisture detection module and the reference resistance, and perform a battery pack protection operation accordingly.

[0047] Accordingly, the present invention can safely protect the battery pack by detecting moisture penetrating into the battery pack and ensure safe operation of the battery pack.

[0048]

[0049] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a moisture detection module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a moisture detection device according to another embodiment of the present invention using a battery pack moisture detection module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 3 is an equivalent circuit diagram of a moisture detection device according to the amount of moisture that has penetrated into the moisture detection module.

[0052] Figure 4 is a graph showing the difference in input voltage of a moisture detection device according to the amount of moisture that has penetrated into the moisture detection module.

[0053] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a battery pack having a moisture detection module and a moisture detection device using the same according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a battery pack protection method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided solely to ensure complete disclosure of the present invention and to fully inform those of ordinary skill in the art of the scope of the invention.

[0056] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a moisture detection module according to an embodiment of the present invention. That is, FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a moisture detection module according to an embodiment of the present invention taken in a vertical direction.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 1, a moisture detection module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a case (100) having a predetermined space provided therein and forming the exterior of the moisture detection module, a first dielectric (200) formed on at least a portion of the inner surface of the case (100), a second dielectric (300) formed at a predetermined height from the lower surface of the case (100) inside the case (100), and a moisture detection unit (400) connected to the second dielectric (300) to detect moisture penetrating into the case (100). In addition, at least one moisture penetration hole (110, 120) through which moisture flowing into the battery pack penetrates is formed on at least a portion of the case (100), the first dielectric (200) has an upper end that is electrically open and a lower end that is connected to ground, and the second dielectric (300) has a surface coated with an insulator so as not to come into direct contact with moisture. The moisture detection unit (400) detects moisture penetration and the amount of moisture by changing the resistance according to the amount of moisture flowing into the case (100). To this end, the moisture detection unit (400) may include a plurality of resistors (410, 420, 430) formed on one side and the other side of the second dielectric (300). In addition, the moisture detection unit (400) may further include a connection terminal (500) that extends from the second dielectric (300) to the outside of the case (100) and connects the inside and the outside of the case (100). That is, the connection terminal (500) connects the second dielectric (300) and the moisture detection device. The moisture detection module according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail for each component as follows.

[0058] 1. Case

[0059] The case (100) is formed of an insulator and forms the exterior of the moisture detection module, and may have a shape in which a predetermined space is provided inside. That is, the case (100) may be provided in various shapes in which a predetermined space is provided inside. For example, the case (100) may have a shape such as a cube, a rectangular parallelepiped, or a cylinder with at least a portion of the upper and lower portions blocked, in which a predetermined space is provided inside.

[0060] In addition, the case (100) may be formed with moisture penetration holes (110, 120) to allow moisture to penetrate into the interior. The moisture penetration holes (110, 120) may be formed on at least one surface of the case (100). For example, the moisture penetration holes (110, 120) may be formed on the lower surface of the case (100), and may be formed on the lower surface and the upper surface. That is, the moisture penetration holes (110, 120) may include a first moisture penetration hole (110) formed on the lower surface of the case (100), and a second moisture penetration hole (120) formed on the upper surface of the case (100). At this time, the first and second moisture penetration holes (110, 120) may be formed in regions that are vertically staggered from each other. For example, the first and second moisture penetration holes (110, 120) may be formed on one lower side and the other upper side of the second dielectric (300), respectively, centered on the second dielectric (300) formed inside the case (100). Moisture may penetrate into the moisture detection module, i.e., the case (100), through these moisture penetration holes (110, 120). That is, moisture may penetrate from the lower side of the moisture detection module through the first moisture penetration hole (110), and moisture may penetrate from the upper side of the moisture detection module through the second moisture penetration hole (120). Moisture penetrating through the first moisture penetration hole (110) may rise from the lower side of one side of the second dielectric (300) and flow over the second dielectric (300) to the other side of the second dielectric (300) depending on the amount of moisture. In addition, moisture penetrating through the second moisture penetration hole (120) may rise from the lower side of the other side of the second dielectric (300) and flow over the second dielectric (300) to one side of the second dielectric (300) depending on the amount of moisture.

[0061] In addition, the case (100) may be formed with an extension portion (130) that extends from the second moisture penetration hole (120) formed at the upper portion into the case (100). The extension portion (130) is an extension portion of the case (100), is formed of an insulator, and may be formed to extend in one direction of the second dielectric (300) formed in the central portion of the interior of the moisture detection module, i.e., the case (100). That is, the second dielectric (300) is formed in the central portion of the moisture detection module, and as a moisture detection portion (400), the first and second resistors (410, 420) are formed on one side of the second dielectric (300), and the third resistor (430) is formed on the other side. The extension portion (130) may be formed to extend and be inclined toward the third resistor (430) so that the penetrating moisture is guided toward the third resistor (430). Therefore, moisture penetrating through the second moisture penetration hole (120) can flow into the third resistor (430) formed on the other side of the second dielectric (300).

[0062] Meanwhile, the case (100) may be formed of an insulator. For example, the case (100) may be formed of plastic, glass, rubber, etc. That is, the case (100) may be formed of an insulator such as plastic in which at least one moisture penetration hole (110, 120) is formed in the form of an opening in a predetermined area.

[0063] 2. First genome

[0064] The first dielectric (200) can be formed on at least a portion of the inner surface of the case (100). That is, the first dielectric (200) is formed on the inner surface of the case (100) and at least a portion of the inner upper surface of the case (100). For example, the first dielectric (200) is not formed on the lower surface of the inner surface of the case (100) and a portion of the upper surface of the inner surface of the case (100). That is, the first dielectric (200) is not formed on the entire lower surface of the inner surface of the case (100) and in the area where the second moisture penetration hole (120) is formed. Therefore, the upper portion of the first dielectric (200) is electrically open. In addition, the lower portion of the first dielectric (200) can be connected to a ground terminal. That is, the first dielectric (200) is formed on the inner wall of the side wall of the case (100), and is formed to extend in the height direction from the side wall to the upper part, the upper part of which is electrically open, and the lower part of which is connected to the ground. This first dielectric (200) may be formed of a material having a predetermined permittivity, and may be formed of ceramic, for example. The cross-sectional view of Fig. 1 illustrates that the first dielectric (200) is formed on the inner wall of the case (100) when viewed based on Fig. 1. The first dielectric (200) is not visible in FIG. 1, but it can also be formed on the inner side wall of the front / rear direction of the case (100). Even if it is not interconnected by the first and second moisture penetration holes (110, 120), the lower side on both sides of FIG. 1 is shown to be connected to the ground in order to show that the lower side is connected to the ground. However, the first dielectric (200) formed on the side wall of the case (100) is not necessarily formed to be separated from each other, and the present invention includes both the case where the first dielectric (200) is formed to be separated and the case where it is formed integrally.

[0065] 3. Second genome

[0066] The second dielectric (300) is provided inside the moisture detection module. That is, the second dielectric (300) may be provided inside the case (100). This second dielectric (300) may be formed from the lower surface of the case (100) upwards with a predetermined height and a predetermined width. At this time, the internal space of the moisture detection module may be divided into two (i.e., divided into two) by the second dielectric (300). That is, the second dielectric (300) may be formed with a predetermined height and width and may be formed from one side wall of the case (100) to the opposite side wall. At this time, if the first dielectric (200) is formed on the side wall, the second dielectric (300) formed up to the other side wall is formed only to an extent that it does not come into contact with the first dielectric (200).

[0067] Accordingly, the interior of the moisture detection module can be divided into one side and the other side of the second dielectric (300) by the second dielectric (300). In addition, the second dielectric (300) can be formed at a height that does not touch the upper surface of the moisture detection module from the lower surface of the moisture detection module.

[0068] And, a first moisture penetration port (110) is located at the lower side on one side of the second dielectric (300), and a second moisture penetration port (120) is located at the upper side on the other side of the second dielectric (300). Therefore, when moisture flowing in from the first moisture penetration port (110) rises to the height of one side of the second dielectric (300), it overflows over the second dielectric (300) to the other side of the second dielectric (300). At this time, since an extension portion (130) is formed at the upper side of the case (100), moisture overflowing from one side of the second dielectric (300) can flow to the other side of the second dielectric (300) without being discharged outside the case (100).

[0069] In addition, the second dielectric (300) may have its surface coated with an insulator. That is, the side, upper, and lower surfaces of the second dielectric (300) may be coated with an insulator. Accordingly, the lower surface of the second dielectric (300) may be electrically open. However, the second dielectric (300) is electrically connected to an external connection terminal (500) through a separate connection wire, and is formed to be insulated from the first dielectric (200).

[0070] Meanwhile, the second dielectric (300) may be formed of a material having a predetermined permittivity, and may be formed of the same material as the first dielectric (200) or may be formed of a different material. For example, the second dielectric (300) may be formed of ceramic.

[0071] 4. Moisture detection unit

[0072] A moisture detection unit (400) is provided inside a moisture detection module and detects moisture flowing into the moisture detection module. The moisture detection unit (400) is formed to be spaced apart from the case (100) by a predetermined distance in the height direction of the second dielectric (300) and to be electrically connected to the second dielectric (300). The moisture detection unit (400) changes resistance according to the amount of moisture flowing into the moisture detection module, thereby detecting moisture penetration and detecting the amount of moisture that has penetrated into the moisture detection module. To this end, the moisture detection unit (400) may include a plurality of resistors (410, 420, 430) formed on one side and the other side of the second dielectric (300). That is, the moisture detection unit (400) may include first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) connected to the second dielectric (300). One side of the first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) is electrically connected to the second dielectric (300).

[0073] The first and second resistors (410, 420) may be formed on one side of the second dielectric (300), and the third resistor (430) may be formed on the other side of the second dielectric (300). The first resistor (410) may be formed to extend downward at a predetermined angle from a side in the height direction of the second dielectric (300). In addition, the second resistor (420) may be formed to extend downward at a predetermined angle from a position higher than the first resistor (410) in the height direction of the second dielectric (300). In addition, the third resistor (430) may be formed to extend downward from a predetermined height on the other side opposite to the one side of the second dielectric (300) on which the first and second resistors (410, 420) are formed. At this time, the angles formed by the first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) with the second dielectric (300) may be the same. In addition, the first and second resistors (410, 420) may have the same length, and the third resistor (430) may be formed with a different length from the first and second resistors (410, 420). For example, the third resistor (430) may be formed longer than the first and second resistors (410, 420), and may be formed to contact the inner lower surface of the case (100). The first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) may be formed of a material having a predetermined insulation resistance, and the resistance values ​​of the first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) may be the same or different.

[0074] A first moisture penetration hole (110) is positioned at the lower side of one side of the case (100) based on the second dielectric (300), and a second moisture penetration part (120) is positioned at the upper side of the other side. That is, the first moisture penetration hole (110) is formed at the lower side of one side of the second dielectric (300) where the first and second resistors (410, 420) are formed, and the second moisture penetration hole (120) is formed at the upper side of the other side of the second dielectric (300) where the third resistor (430) is formed.

[0075] When moisture flows in through the first moisture penetration hole (110) and the moisture rises inside the case (100), the first resistor (410) becomes immersed in the moisture. At this time, an electrical path is formed between the first resistor (410) and the first dielectric (200) due to the electrolyte in the moisture, and the current from the external connection terminal (500) flows through the second dielectric (300), the first resistor (410), and the first dielectric (200) to the ground terminal. Therefore, the moisture detection circuit, which will be described later, is connected by the external connection terminal (500), and the moisture detection circuit is connected to the reference resistor (R ref ) and the first resistor (R1) of the first resistor body (410) are expressed as an equivalent circuit of Fig. 3 (b) having a resistance value connected in series.

[0076] Afterwards, if moisture continues to flow in, more moisture will fill up inside the case (100) and the second resistor (420) will be immersed in moisture. Similarly, an additional electrical path will be formed between the second resistor (420) and the first dielectric (200) due to the electrolyte in the moisture, causing current to flow. Therefore, the parallel composite resistance of the first and second resistors (R1, R2) of each of the first and second resistors (410, 420) is connected to the moisture detection circuit by the external connection terminal (500), and accordingly, the moisture detection circuit is connected to the reference resistor (R ref ) and the parallel composite resistance of the first and second resistors (R1, R2) have a resistance value that can be expressed as an equivalent circuit of Fig. 3(c).

[0077] In addition, if moisture continues to flow in and continues to rise inside the case (100), it overflows beyond the second dielectric (300) to the other side of the second dielectric (300). Accordingly, the third resistor (430) is immersed in moisture. At this time, an additional electrical path is formed between the third resistor (430) and the first dielectric (200), causing current to flow. Accordingly, the parallel composite resistance of the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) of each of the first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) is connected to the moisture detection circuit by the external connection terminal (500), and accordingly, the moisture detection circuit is connected to the reference resistor (R ref ) and the parallel composite resistance of the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) has a resistance value that is connected, and can be expressed as an equivalent circuit of Fig. 3(d).

[0078]

[0079] As described above, the battery pack moisture detection module according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a second dielectric (300) in the central portion of the inside of a case (100) having a predetermined space therein, and a moisture detection unit (400) that detects moisture is connected to the second dielectric (300) so as to detect moisture penetrating through the first and second moisture inlets (110, 120) formed at the lower and upper portions of the case (100), respectively. At this time, the moisture detection unit (400) is composed of a plurality of resistors (410, 420, 430) having a predetermined resistance value due to moisture, and the resistance value changes according to the amount of moisture penetration, thereby detecting the amount of moisture, etc. Therefore, by detecting moisture penetrating into the battery pack, the battery pack can be safely protected and the safe operation of the battery pack can be guaranteed.

[0080]

[0081] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a moisture detection device using a battery pack moisture detection module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, Figure 3 is an equivalent circuit diagram of the moisture detection device according to the amount of moisture that has penetrated into the moisture detection module. Furthermore, Figure 4 is a graph illustrating the difference in input voltage of the moisture detection device according to the amount of moisture that has penetrated into the moisture detection module.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a battery pack moisture detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to detect a reference voltage (V ref ) and reference resistance (R ref ) and a moisture detection module (10) that detects moisture flowing into the battery pack according to the change in resistance, and the resistance value of the moisture detection module (10) and the reference resistance (R ref ) according to the reference voltage (V) ref ) input voltage (V in ) may include a control unit (20) that determines whether moisture has penetrated and the amount of moisture has penetrated.

[0083] As described using FIG. 1, the moisture detection module (10) has an exterior made of an insulator and an interior made of a dielectric and a resistor. That is, the moisture detection module (10) may include a case (100) made of an insulator, first and second dielectrics (200, 300) formed inside the case (100), and a moisture detection unit (400) made of first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) connected to the second dielectric (300). Here, the first dielectric (200) forms a path with the second dielectric (300) when moisture penetrates into the module, and the moisture detection unit (400) has the first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) sequentially connected to the first dielectric (200) depending on the amount of moisture penetrating, so that the resistance of the moisture detection module changes. Meanwhile, the first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) can be represented as first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) connected in parallel as illustrated in FIG. 3. At this time, the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) can be selectively connected to the moisture detection circuit depending on the amount of moisture penetration. Meanwhile, the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) can have a predetermined resistance value, and the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) can have different resistance values, or can have the same resistance value. When the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) have different resistance values, the third resistor (430) is connected first, so that the control unit (20) can also know whether moisture penetrates the lower part of the case of the moisture detection module or the upper part.

[0084] At this time, the control unit (20) determines the amount of moisture detected by the moisture detection module (10). That is, the resistance value of the moisture detection module (10) changes according to the amount of moisture detected by penetration, and the control unit (20) determines the amount of moisture detected by determining the change in the resistance value of the moisture detection module (10). To this end, the control unit (20) determines the amount of moisture detected by applying the input voltage (V in ) can be used. That is, the control unit (20) can use the input voltage (V in ) can be determined based on the voltage value of the battery pack. In addition, the control unit (20) can perform a battery pack protection operation based on the moisture flowing into the battery pack. At this time, the control unit (20) can perform the battery protection operation differently depending on the amount of moisture. For example, if the amount of moisture is low, a warning message can be sent to the user, and depending on the amount of moisture increasing, the battery pack protection operation can be performed or the operation of the battery pack can be stopped. The battery pack protection method will be described in more detail later using FIG. 6.

[0085] The method of operating a moisture detection device according to another embodiment of the present invention is explained using the equivalent circuit diagram of FIG. 3 according to the amount of moisture penetrating as follows.

[0086] First, if there is no moisture penetration into the battery pack, the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) are set to the reference resistor (R) as shown in the circuit diagram of Fig. 3(a). ref ) and maintain an open state, that is, if moisture does not penetrate, the first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) of the moisture detection module (10) are not electrically connected to the first dielectric (200), so that the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) are the reference resistors (R ref ) is interpreted as not being connected. Therefore, the input voltage (V) input to the control unit (20) in ) is the reference voltage (V ref ) is the same. That is, Vin=V refcan be expressed as . Therefore, the control unit (20) inputs the voltage (V in ) and reference voltage (V ref ) is judged to be in a state where there is no moisture detection, i.e., no moisture has penetrated. At this time, the input voltage (V in ) is V as shown in Fig. 4 ref It has a voltage value of (equivalent circuit of Fig. 3(a)).

[0087] Moisture penetrating from the bottom of the moisture detection module (10) flows into the moisture detection module (10) through the first moisture inlet (110) at the bottom of the moisture detection module (10). When the moisture flowing into the moisture detection module (10) rises to the height of the first resistor (410), the first resistor (410) becomes covered with moisture. At this time, an electrical path is formed between the first resistor (410) and the first dielectric (200) due to the electrolyte in the moisture, causing current to flow. Therefore, the first resistor (R1) is connected to the moisture detection device, and the second and third resistors (R2, R3) are not connected to the moisture detection device. In other words, the first resistor (R1) is turned on, and the second and third resistors (R2, R3) are turned off. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3(b), the first resistor (R1) is connected to the reference resistor (R ref ) and is connected in series with the control unit (20), and accordingly, the input voltage, i.e., the first input voltage (V in1 ) can be expressed as [Mathematical Formula 1]. At this time, the first input voltage (V in1 ) is a first input voltage value (V) that is smaller than the voltage value of the reference voltage (Vref) as shown in Fig. 4. in1 ) is obtained. The control unit (20) determines that a predetermined first amount of moisture has penetrated when the input voltage is the first input voltage of mathematical expression 1.

[0088]

[0089] Here, R1 is the first resistance value of the first resistor of the moisture detection module.

[0090]

[0091] Afterwards, when moisture continues to flow in and rises inside the moisture detection module (10), the second resistor (420) is also locked, and an additional electrical path is formed between the second resistor (420) and the first and second dielectrics (200, 300). Accordingly, the first and second resistors (R1, R2) are turned on, and the third resistor (R3) is turned off. In this case, as shown in Fig. 3(c), the first and second resistors (R1, R2) are connected in parallel with the reference resistor (R ref ) is connected to the control unit (20), and the second input voltage (V) is input to the control unit (20). in2 ) can be expressed as in [Mathematical Formula 2]. At this time, the second input voltage (V in2 ) is the first input voltage value (V) as shown in Fig. 4. in1 ) is less than the second voltage value (V in2 ) is provided. The control unit (20) has an input voltage (V in ) is the second input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 2] in2 ) it can be determined that a second amount of moisture greater than the first amount has penetrated from the lower portion of the moisture detection module.

[0092]

[0093] Here, R1 and R2 are the first and second resistance values ​​of the first and second resistors (410, 420) of the moisture detection module, respectively.

[0094]

[0095] As moisture continues to flow in and rises within the moisture detection module (10), the second dielectric (300) is submerged in moisture to the other side of the second dielectric (300). At this time, when the third resistor (430) is submerged in moisture, an additional electrical path is formed between the third resistor (430) and the first and second dielectrics (200, 300). Accordingly, the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) are turned on. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3(d), the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) are connected in parallel with the reference resistor (R ref ) is connected to the control unit (20), and the third input voltage (V) is input to the control unit (20). in3 ) can be expressed as in [Mathematical Formula 3]. At this time, the third input voltage (V in3 ) is the second input voltage value (V) as shown in Fig. 4. in2 ) is less than the third input voltage value (V in3 ) is provided. The control unit (20) has an input voltage (V in ) is the third input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 3] in3 ) it can be determined that a third amount of moisture greater than the second amount has penetrated from the lower portion of the moisture detection module.

[0096]

[0097] Here, R1, R2, and R3 are the first to third resistance values ​​of the first to third resistors (410, 420, 430) of the moisture detection module, respectively.

[0098]

[0099] Conversely, it can also be assumed that water pours down from the top, in which case water enters directly through the second moisture inlet (120) at the top of the moisture detection module (10) and the third resistor (430) is immersed in the moisture. In this case, an electrical path is formed between the third resistor (430) and the first dielectric (200), so that only the third resistor (R3) is the reference resistor (R) as shown in Fig. 3(e). ref ) is connected in series. At this time, the fourth input voltage (V) input to the control unit (20) in4 ) can be expressed as [Mathematical Formula 4], and the fourth input voltage (V in4 ) is the third voltage value (V) as shown in Fig. 4. in3 ) is greater than the fourth voltage value (V in4 ) will have the fourth input voltage value (V in Fig. 4 in4 ) is the second input voltage value (V in2 ) is expressed as smaller than the input voltage (V), but this may vary depending on the size of the third resistor (430). The control unit (20) is configured to input the input voltage (V in ) is the fourth input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 4] in4 ) then it can be determined that moisture has penetrated from the upper part of the moisture detection module.

[0100]

[0101] Here, R3 is the third resistance value of the third resistor (430) of the moisture detection module.

[0102]

[0103] Meanwhile, assuming that the resistance values ​​of the first to third resistors (R1, R2, R3) are not all the same, the synthetic resistance for each situation is expressed as a distinct value, which means that the input voltage (V) input to the control unit (20) in ) are also displayed as distinct values. In addition, the control unit (20) of the BMS can recognize this and differentially perform safety operations appropriate for each moisture infiltration situation.

[0104]

[0105] As described above, the battery pack moisture detection device according to another embodiment of the present invention has a reference voltage (V ref ) and reference resistance (R ref ) and a moisture detection module (10) that detects moisture flowing into the battery pack according to the change in resistance, and the resistance value of the moisture detection module (10) and the reference resistance (R ref ) according to the reference voltage (V) ref ) input voltage (V in ) may include a control unit (20) that determines whether moisture has penetrated and the amount of moisture has penetrated. Accordingly, the resistance value of the moisture detection module changes depending on the amount of moisture penetrating the moisture detection module (10), and the moisture detection device of the present invention receives an input voltage (V) that changes depending on the change in the resistance value. in ) can determine the amount of moisture penetrating into the moisture detection module (10). The moisture detection device can perform a safety operation of the battery pack according to the amount of moisture penetrating into the battery pack, and thereby ensure the safety operation of the battery pack.

[0106]

[0107] FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of a battery pack (1000) equipped with a moisture detection device using a moisture detection module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 5, a battery pack (1000) according to the present invention comprises a battery module (1100) having a plurality of battery cells, a BMS (1200) managing the battery pack (1000), and a reference resistor (R) provided within the BMS (1200). ref ), reference voltage (V ref) and a control unit (20), and a moisture detection module (120) according to an embodiment of the present invention connected to the moisture detection device. That is, the moisture detection module (120) according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided outside the BMS (1200), and the moisture detection device is provided inside the BMS (1200) and connected to the moisture detection module (120). In other words, the moisture detection module (120) outside the BMS (1200) is connected to the moisture detection device inside the BMS (1200).

[0109]

[0110] Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a battery pack protection method according to another embodiment of the present invention. That is, Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a battery pack protection method of a moisture detection device using a battery pack moisture detection module according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 6, a battery pack protection method according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to control the input voltage (V) of the control unit according to the amount of moisture detected by the moisture detection module. in ) and the process of judging the input voltage (S110) and the input voltage (V in ) is the reference voltage (V ref ) is the same as (S120), it is determined that moisture has not penetrated and a process of performing normal operation (S130), and the input voltage is the first input voltage (V in1 ) (S140) and a process of sending a warning message to the user by judging that a small amount of moisture has penetrated (S150), and the input voltage is the second input voltage (V in2 ) (S160) and determines that moisture of weight has penetrated, and performs battery pack protection operation for the user (S170), and the input voltage is the third input voltage (V in3 ) or the fourth input voltage (V in4) may include a process (S180) of stopping the battery pack operation by determining that moisture has penetrated from the upper part of the moisture detection module or a large amount of moisture has penetrated from the lower part of the moisture detection module. That is, the battery pack protection method according to the present invention can send a warning message to the user to give advance warning or perform a battery pack safety operation depending on the amount of moisture penetrating into the battery pack.

[0112] The control unit (20) determines the amount of moisture penetrating into the battery pack based on the resistance value from the moisture detection module (10). That is, the control unit (20) determines the amount of moisture penetrating into the battery pack based on the resistance value from the moisture detection module (10) and the reference resistance (R ref ) according to the input voltage (V) in ) can be used to determine the amount of moisture. The input voltage (V in ) is the reference voltage (V ref ) is the same, it is judged that there is no moisture infiltration, and the battery pack can be allowed to operate normally. However, the input voltage (V in ) is the reference voltage (V ref ) is less than the first input voltage (V in1 ) it is determined that a small amount of moisture has penetrated to the extent that the first resistor of the moisture detection module (10) is submerged, and a path message can be sent to the user. In addition, the input voltage (V in ) is the first input voltage (V in1 ) is less than the second input voltage (V in2 ) then the battery pack protection operation can be performed by determining that moisture has penetrated to the extent that the second resistor (420) of the moisture detection module (10) is submerged. Then, the input voltage (V in ) is the second input voltage (V in2 ) is less than the third input voltage (V in3 ) or the second input voltage (V in2 ) is less than the third input voltage (V in3 ) greater than the fourth input voltage (V in4) If it is determined that a large amount of moisture has penetrated to the extent that the third resistor (430) of the moisture detection module is submerged, the operation of the battery pack can be stopped.

[0113]

[0114] As described above, a battery pack protection method according to another embodiment of the present invention can send a warning message to a user in advance according to the amount of moisture penetrating into the battery pack, or perform a safety operation such as a battery pack protection operation or a battery pack operation stop. That is, the moisture detection device of the present invention can detect an input voltage (V) that changes according to a change in the resistance value of the moisture detection module. in ) can be used to determine the amount of moisture penetrating into the moisture detection module and perform battery pack safety operation accordingly, thereby ensuring the safe operation of the battery pack.

[0115]

[0116] While the technical concepts of the present invention have been specifically described through the above-described embodiments, it should be noted that the embodiments are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various embodiments are possible within the scope of the technical concepts of the present invention.

[0117]

[0118] The drawings and drawing symbols used in the present invention are as follows.

[0119] 10: Moisture detection module 20: Control unit

[0120] 100: Case 110: First moisture penetration hole (110)

[0121] 120: Second moisture penetration hole 130: Extension

[0122] 200: The first genome

[0123] 300: Second dielectric 400: Moisture detection unit

[0124] 410, 420, 430: 1st, 2nd and 3rd resistors

[0125] 500: External connection terminal 1000: Battery pack

[0126] 1100: Battery module 1200: BMS

Claims

1. A case with a certain amount of space inside, A first dielectric formed on at least a portion of the inner surface of the case, A second dielectric formed at a predetermined height from the lower surface of the case inside the case, A battery pack moisture detection module including a moisture detection unit electrically connected to the second dielectric to detect moisture penetrating into the interior of the case.

2. A battery pack moisture detection module according to claim 1, further comprising an external connection terminal that is connected to the second dielectric and extends to the outside of the case to electrically connect the inside and the outside of the case.

3. A battery pack moisture detection module according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a first moisture penetration hole formed in the case on a lower side of one side of the second dielectric, and a second moisture penetration hole formed in the case on an upper side of the other side of the second dielectric.

4. A battery pack moisture detection module according to claim 3, further comprising an extension formed to extend from the second moisture penetration port into the interior of the case.

5. In claim 3, the first dielectric is a battery pack moisture detection module having an upper end that is electrically open and a lower end that is connected to ground.

6. A battery pack moisture detection module according to claim 5, wherein the second dielectric is formed with a predetermined height and width from one side wall of the case to the opposite side wall to divide the internal space of the case.

7. In claim 6, the second dielectric is a battery pack moisture detection module having a surface coated with an insulator.

8. A battery pack moisture detection module according to claim 7, wherein the moisture detection unit includes a plurality of resistors formed on one side and the other side of the second dielectric, and the resistance changes according to the amount of moisture flowing into the case.

9. A battery pack moisture detection module according to claim 8, wherein the moisture detection unit includes first and second resistors formed spaced apart from each other in the height direction on one side of the second dielectric, and a third resistor formed on the other side of the second dielectric.

10. In claim 9, the moisture detection unit is a battery pack moisture detection module in which the first to third resistors are sequentially submerged according to the amount of moisture penetrating into the case or the direction of moisture penetration, and the resistance value changes accordingly.

11. Reference voltage (V) ref )class, Reference resistance (R ref )class, A moisture detection module that detects moisture flowing into the battery pack according to changes in resistance, The above reference voltage (V ref ) is the voltage drop value due to the resistance value of the moisture detection module for the input voltage (V in ) A battery pack moisture detection device including a control unit that determines whether moisture has penetrated and the amount of moisture has penetrated.

12. In claim 11, the control unit inputs a voltage (V in ) is the reference voltage (V ref ) is the same as the battery pack moisture detection device that determines that no moisture has penetrated.

13. In claim 12, the control unit inputs a voltage (V in ) is the first input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 1]. in1 ) A battery pack moisture detection device that determines that a first amount of moisture has penetrated from the lower portion of the moisture detection module. [Mathematical Formula 1] Here, R 1 is the first resistance value of the first resistor of the moisture detection module.

14. In claim 13, the control unit inputs a voltage (V in ) is the second input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 2]. in2 ) A battery pack moisture detection device that determines that a second amount of moisture greater than the first amount has penetrated from the lower portion of the moisture detection module. [Mathematical formula 2] Here, R 1 and R 2 are the first and second resistance values ​​of the first and second resistors of the moisture detection module, respectively.

15. In claim 14, the control unit inputs a voltage (V in ) is the third input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 3]. in3 ) A battery pack moisture detection device that determines that a third amount of moisture greater than the second amount has penetrated from the lower portion of the moisture detection module. [Mathematical Formula 3] Here, R 1 , R 2 and R 3 are the first to third resistance values ​​of the first to third resistors of the moisture detection module, respectively.

16. In claim 15, the control unit inputs a voltage (V in ) is the fourth input voltage (V) as in [Mathematical Formula 4]. in4 ) A battery pack moisture detection device that determines that moisture has penetrated from the upper portion of the moisture detection module. [Mathematical Formula 4] Here, R 3 is the third resistance value of the third resistor of the moisture detection module.

17. A method for protecting a battery pack using a battery pack moisture detection device according to any one of claims 11 to 16, Input voltage (V) according to the amount of moisture detected by the moisture detection module in ) and the process of judging, The above input voltage (V in ) is the reference voltage (V ref ) is the same as the above, it is judged that moisture has not penetrated and the battery pack is in normal operation. The above input voltage (V in ) is the first input voltage (V in1 ) and the process of determining that the first amount of moisture has penetrated and sending a warning message to the user; The above input voltage (V in ) is the second input voltage (V in2 ) and a process of performing a battery pack protection operation by determining that the second amount of moisture has penetrated more than the first amount, The above input voltage (V in ) is the third input voltage (V in3 ) or the fourth input voltage (V in4 ) A battery pack protection method including a process of stopping battery pack operation when it is determined that moisture has penetrated from the upper part of the moisture detection module or a third amount of moisture greater than the second amount has penetrated from the lower part of the moisture detection module.

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