Container for storage and transport of energy storage devices

Abstract

Provided herein are protective containers for storage and transport of energy storage device, wherein the container includes an outer body and an internal casing and a hinged lid having at least two compartments, one situated at least partially over the internal casing and capable of releasing a neutralizing material towards the internal casing, when the internal temperature increases, and a second compartment configured to hold an additional amount of neutralizing material, wherein the neutralizing material is configured to reduce heat, suppress fire and / or reduce or neutralize gases formed from damage or combustion of the energy storage device.

Description

[0001] CONTAINER FOR STORAGE AND TRANSPORT OF ENERGY STORAGE DEVICES

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to protective containers for storage and transport of energy storage devices, such as, batteries.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Lithium-ion batteries are used to power a large variety of devices, ranging from small electronic devices to electric cars. Lithium-ion batteries may overheat and spontaneously increase in temperature, resulting in release of hot and toxic pressurized gases, if improperly handled, manufactured or overcharged. This may result in the lithium-ion fluid within the battery bursting into flames, reaching very high temperatures. While it is possible to extinguish the flames by applying large amounts of water, the lithium inside of the battery may react with the electrolytes and water to generate volatile gases oxygen which can accelerate the fire. Sand or other granular minerals can be applied to a lithium-ion battery fire; however, these materials are fire resistant only and do not provide fire extinguishing properties, or absorption of harmful gases that may form. These fire suppression methods are not practical if the lithium battery fire occurs within a sealed shipping container during transport.

[0006] Various solutions for shipping containers to transport lithium-ion batteries include boxes lined with ceramic fiber or containers made of aluminum or steel. Other containers are disclosed, for example in US Patent No. 11,559,709 and US Patent No. 11,542,091.

[0007] However, there is still a need in the art for improved containers for storing or transporting energy storage devices, such as lithium batteries, which have high capacity, are safe, cost effective, and efficient in containing or extinguishing fire, heat and / or gas generated within the container if the energy storage device overheats. SUMMARY

[0008] Aspects of the disclosure, according to some embodiments thereof, relate generally to a container allowing the safe storage and transport of energy storing devices, such as, lithium batteries. In particular, the container disclosed herein allows extinguishing fire, reducing heat and / or related side effects of ignition or combustion of the energy storing device, to reduce or prevent environmental damage.

[0009] In some embodiments, the advantageous container disclosed herein enables the storage of large number of energy storing devices, while being rigid, relatively light weight and cost effective to manufacture. Furthermore, advantageously, the disclosed container can hold a large amount of neutralizing material, capable of suppressing fire, heat and / or gasses potentially generated in the container due to battery leakage or heating, wherein the neutralizing material can be disposed in the body and in the lid of the container, and at least a portion thereof can also be dispersed or released when fire, heat or pressure are generated within the container.

[0010] In some embodiments, the advantageous container disclosed herein includes an outer body, having external walls (sidewalls and a bottom wall), an internal casing positioned within the internal volume of the outer body, such that a space is formed between the external surface of the internal casing and the internal surface of the outer body, said internal casing includes ventilation holes at an upper portion thereof; and a hinged cover (lid) configured to close / seal the container interior, when in a closed position. The hinged lid includes at least two separate compartments, wherein the first compartment is situated at least partially over the internal casing and holds a neutralizing material capable of being released / spread from the cover when the internal in the container is above a designated temperature. The second compartment is situated over the first compartment and is a closed compartment configured to hold and maintain a neutralizing material, without releasing the material to the internal casing. In some embodiments, the cover may further include a third, external compartment, situated over the second compartment.

[0011] According to some embodiments, the container disclosed herein is advantageous as it is cost effective to manufacture, eco-friendly, has a relativity light weight and is rugged and stable. Moreover, due to the arrangement of an outer body and internal casing, internal space therebetween, and in particular a hinged lid having two compartments, the casing is highly efficient is reducing or suppressing fire, heat and / or pressure within the container, by facilitating a spatial-temporal dispersion of suitable neutralizing material, as needed. Thus, the advantageous container disclosed herein can efficiently reduce or prevent hazard involved with overheating or other damages that may result from the handling, storing or transporting of energy storage devices.

[0012] According to some embodiments, there is provided a container for storing or transporting an energy storage device, the container includes: an outer body, having walls and a top opening; an internal casing having walls and a top opening, configured to hold the energy storing device(s); wherein said internal casing is positioned or formed within the internal volume of the outer body, such that a space is formed between external surface of the walls of the internal casing and the internal surface of the walls of the outer body; and a hinged lid, configured to fit over the top opening of the outer body and / or the internal casing, to thereby close and seal the container; wherein the hinged cover comprises at least two compartments: a first compartment situated at least partially over the internal casing and configured to fit over the top opening of the internal casing; said first compartment comprises at least partially hollow body configured to hold a neutralizing material and release said material from first compartment towards the internal casing, when the internal temperature in the container is above a designated temperature; and a second compartment situated over the first compartment, said second compartment comprises at least partially hollow body configured to hold a neutralizing material, wherein said neutralizing material is not released from the second compartment to the internal casing; such that if temperature is elevated over a designated value within the internal casing, the neutralizing material is released from the first compartment into the internal casing, thereby at least partially suppressing and / or neutralizing heat, fire and / or gases generated within the internal casing.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the second compartment of the cover is made of an outer portion and an internal portion, defining therebetween the space of the second compartment. In some embodiments, the outer portion is made of plastic.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the first compartment may include openings at a bottom surface thereof, said openings are covered with a heat sensitive material configured to at least partially disintegrate when the temperature is over a designated value, thereby allowing the release of the neutralizing material held within the body of the first compartment towards the internal casing.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the heat sensitive material is a mesh. In some embodiments, the mesh may include non-woven material, polymer-based fabrics, composite fabrics, or any combinations thereof. Each possibility is a separate embodiment.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the second compartment may include ventilation holes (at various shapes and / or sizes), at a bottom surface or any upper surface thereof.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the outer casing may be made of plastic.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the bottom surface of the outer casing may be elevated relative to ground level.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the bottom surface of the outer casing may include at least one exhaust opening.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the internal casing may be made of or is coated with metal, aluminum, a fire retardant material and / or a fire resistance material.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the internal casing may include ventilation holes disposed at an upper portion thereof. According to some embodiments, the ventilation holes may be at least partially covered with a mesh or a filter.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the space between the external surface of the walls of the internal casing and the internal surface of the walls of the outer body is configured to at least partially be filled with the neutralizing material.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the neutralizing material may be configured to suppress fire, absorb heat, absorb gas, absorb acids and / or bases, and / or provide insulation of fire within the container. According to some embodiments, the neutralizing material may at least partially include Akku-Grain.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the lid may include at least two hinges located at a rear end thereof, moveably connecting the rear end of the lid and the outer body.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the cover may further include one or more pistons or springs connecting the lid with the outer body and / or with the internal casing, and facilitating movement of the lid.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the container may further include a latch (locking assembly) configured to allow locking the lid and the outer body.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the hinges of the lid may further allow the lid to move between a sealed position and a vent position, whereby a rear end of the lid is elevated when internal gas pressure in the internal casing exceeds a designated level.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the lid may be configured to elevate from the outer body when internal gas pressure in the internal casing exceeds a designated / predetermined level.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the lid may be reversibly detachable from the container.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the energy storing device may include, but is not limited to lithium battery.

[0031] According to some embodiments, there is provided a system for storing or shipping an energy storing device, the system includes a container as disclosed herein; and a neutralizing material at least partially filling the space between the external surface of the walls of the internal casing and the internal surface of the walls of the outer body and / or the space within the first compartment and / or the second compartment of the lid.

[0032] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may include some, all, or none of the above advantages. One or more other technical advantages may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the figures, descriptions, and claims included herein. Moreover, while specific advantages have been enumerated above, various embodiments may include all, some, or none of the enumerated advantages.

[0033] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0034] Some embodiments of the disclosure are described herein with reference to the accompanying figures. The description, together with the figures, makes apparent to a person having ordinary skill in the art how some embodiments may be practiced. The figures are for the purpose of illustrative description and no attempt is made to show structural details of an embodiment in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the disclosure. For the sake of clarity, some objects depicted in the figures are not to scale.

[0035] In the figures:

[0036] Figure 1A shows a schematic perspective view of a closed container, according to some embodiments;

[0037] Figure IB shows a schematic perspective view of an open container, according to some embodiments;

[0038] Figure 2A shows a schematic front view of a closed container, according to some embodiments;

[0039] Figure 2B shows a schematic front view of an open container, according to some embodiments;

[0040] Figure 3A shows a schematic rear view of a closed container, according to some embodiments;

[0041] Figure 3B shows a schematic rear view of an open container, according to some embodiments;

[0042] Figure 4A shows a cross section side view of a closed container, according to some embodiments;

[0043] Figure 4B shows a cross section side view of an open container, according to some embodiments; Figure 5 show a view of the bottom surface of the bottom wall of a container, according to some embodiments;

[0044] Figures 6A-C show a close-up view of a cross section of hinge region of a container, according to some embodiments. Figure 6A- shows the hinge position when the lid is at a closed (sealed) position; Figure 6B- shows the hinge position when the lid is in a closed but not sealed position, with a tight space forming between the lid and the container body; and Figure 6C- shows the hinge position when the lid is at an opened position.

[0045] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The principles, uses, and implementations of the teachings herein may be better understood with reference to the accompanying description and figures. Upon perusal of the description and figures present herein, one skilled in the art will be able to implement the teachings herein without undue effort or experimentation. In the figures, same reference numerals refer to same parts throughout.

[0047] According to some embodiments, there is provided herein an advantageous container for safely storing or transporting energy storing device, wherein the container includes an outer body, an inner casing and a connected (hinged) lid having at least two compartments, wherein space formed between the outer body and the inner casing are configured to hold a neutralizing material, and wherein the first compartment of the lid is configured to release / disperse neutralizing material stored within, in case a fire or heat is generated within the inner casing holding the energy storage device, and the second compartment of the lid is configured to hold / store the neutralizing material, thereby providing an additional safety layer, to further suppress or prevent heat, fire or harmful gases from spreading.

[0048] As used herein, the term “energy storage device” refers to a device capable of storing and / or dispensing energy, such as an electrical energy. In some embodiments, the storage device is a battery. In some embodiments, the energy storage device is a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the energy storage device may be of any size or capacity (ranging for example from small size batteries of consumer electronics to large scale bateries, such as those of electric vehicles). In some exemplary embodiments, the batery is a lithium ion batery.

[0049] As used herein, the term “neutralizing material” refers to any type of material / composition of materials capable of one or more of: suppressing fire, extinguishing fire, reducing fire, neutralizing gases associate with fire, reducing heat, reducing temperature. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material may include acidic compounds, basic compounds, etc. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material may be in any form, including, for example, but not limited to: powder, particles, granules, spheres, beads, glass beads, pellets, and the like. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material may be made from a mixture of substances, at least some of which may be non-combustible, capable of absorbing water and porous. Some substances may also contain basic materials or materials capable of neutralizing acidic substances. Exemplary substances include, for example, but not limited to: Diatomaceous earth, perlite, bentonite, zeolite, aerated concrete or gypsum, hydrogel, and the like. According to some embodiments, the neutralizing material may be passive and only be activated when needed, for example, when fire, development of heat and / or presence of acidic, alkaline or other dangerous substances are formed, for example, in case of a thermal runway. According to some embodiments the neutralizing material may extract heat from its surroundings and generate steam from water. The generated steam may dilute the air, preventing, for example, fire and explosions. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material may also facilitate conversion of toxic decomposition products from the energy storing device into acids, alkalis and stable substances. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material may neutralize acids such as hydrofluoric acid (HF) or alkalis such as lithium hydroxide (LiOH). Hydrocarbons (HC), hydrogen or methane are no longer ignitable and explosive due to the dilution with water vapor, which prevents dangerous and unpredictable explosions. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material may thus consequently reduce the temperature within the container in the event of a thermal runway. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material is a non-flammable material. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material may further facilitate filtration of dangerous and toxic decomposition products. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material has a long shelf life and can be reused in cases it was not activated (e.g., by heat, fire or gases). In some embodiments, based on its density, the neutralizing material may have a light weight (for example, a weight of 0.9kg / liter, or lighter than sand). In some exemplary embodiments, the neutralizing material is AkkuGrain™.

[0050] Reference is now made to Fig. 1A, which shows a schematic perspective view of a closed container, according to some embodiments. As shown in Fig. 1A, container 100 includes an outer body 102, having external walls (shown are external walls 103A-C), and a bottom wall 112. Outer body 102 may be made of one integrated unit of walls or may be made of separate walls connected / attached thereto. In some embodiments, outer body 102 may be rigid and hard and may be made of suitable materials, such as, for example, plastic. The plastic may be selected, for example, but not limited to: Polyethylene, Polypropylene copolymer, or Polyolefin Compounds including one or more type of fillers (talc, glass fiber, Calcium Carbonate, and the like), a thermoplastic impact modifier, and the like, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, outer body 102 may be made or assembled by any suitable methods, including, for example, molding, heat, chemical or physical welding of separate walls, gluing, adhering, screwing, attaching, and the like, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 1A, bottom wall / surface 112 of outer casing 102 may be elevated over ground level, such that a space is formed between the lower surface of bottom wall 112 and the ground on which the container is placed. To this aim, pillars / legs may be included with the outer body, wherein the pillars may be separate legs, or be part of at least some of the walls of outer body 102. For example, shown in Fig. 1A is pilar region 113A. Not shown in Fig. 1A, but further illustrated below in Fig. IB, is an inner casing, which is configured to be positioned / formed within the outer body and to hold the energy storage device. In some embodiments the container is constructed from at least two separate parts / portions that are configured to fit into each other, to form the inner cavity and the cavities for the neutralizing material. Further shown in Fig. 1A is lid 106, shown in a closed position, wherein the lid covers / seals the top opening of the outer body (and the top opening of the inner casing, as shown in Fig. IB). Lid 106 is connected to outer body 102 using hinges 118A-B. In some embodiments, the hinges are designed to fit into corresponding regions in the frame of the container, such that no additional hinges, fasteners or screws are needed for connection thereof. It is noted that any number of suitable arrangement of hinges may be utilized. Lid 106 may be made of various materials or combination of materials, such as, for example but not limited to: plastic, metal, and the like. As further detailed below, the lid includes at least two discrete compartments. Further shown is latch (locking assembly) 116 (on the outer body) and corresponding holder 114 (on the lid), wherein when in a closed position, the engagement of the latch and the corresponding holder is configured to secure / lock the lid and the outer body. As further detailed below, locking using the latch may further be used to enable quick release of gas from the outer casing, in case of high gas pressure is formed within the closed container.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first compartment of the lid is collapsible while the second compartment of the lid and the surrounding walls are designed to maintain the mechanical structure.

[0052] In some embodiments, the body of the container may be made from at least two or at least three removable parts (such as, inner / outer walls and bottom part). In such embodiments, the parts that make the container body are designed to fit tightly into each other, thereby forming the outer walls, inner main frame and the internal cavities. In some embodiments, at least some of the parts of the container and / or the lid are made of plastic. In some embodiments, at least some of the parts that make the container and lid are made from injected polymers. In some embodiments, the parts are manufactured by, for example, but not limited to: structural foam injection molding.

[0053] In some embodiments, the positioning of the lid is facilitated by corresponding designed geometry in the lid part and the cavities in the body parts.

[0054] Reference is now made to Fig. IB, which shows a schematic perspective view of an open container, according to some embodiments. As shown in Fig. IB, container 100 includes an outer body 102 and inner casing 104. Inner casing 104 is located within the inner space of outer body 102. As further detailed below, inner casing 104 is positioned such that a space is formed between the internal surfaces of the walls of outer body 112 and the outer surfaces of the internal walls of inner casing 104. Inner casing 104 is configured to hold / store / contain the energy storage device. Inner casing 104 may be made of any suitable material, preferably a heat stable material, such as, a dedicated / customized fabric, aluminum, plastic, metal, and the like, or any combinations thereof. Both the outer body and inner casing have a top opening. Onto the top opening of the outer body and the inner casing, lid 106 is configured to fit, such that when in a closed position, the lid can seal the top opening of the outer body and / or the inner casing. Further shown in Fig. IB are pistons 120A-B, which are configured to facilitate or aid in the opening / closing of lid 106. The pistons may include any type of pistons, such as, selfoperating pistons (for example, gas pistons). In some embodiments, instead of or in addition to pistons 120A-B, springs may be utilized. As shown in Fig. IB, lid 106 may be made of at least two compartments, shown as outer compartment 108 and compartment 110. Compartment 110 may be positioned such that it can fit over the top opening of inner casing 104, and close / cover / seal / engage the inner casing. Compartment 110 may be at least partially hollow, wherein the internal space thereof can hold / maintain / store neutralizing material. As further detailed below, the neutralizing material may be any type of suitable material, at any form, shape or size, including, for example, beads, pellets, powder, hydrogel, granules, and the like. Outer compartment 108 may be made of at least two portions: intemal / inner portion 111 and outer portion 109, whereby a space may be formed between the two portions, thereby forming an internal space therebetween and thereby defining outer compartment 108. In some embodiments, the circumferential lip / region of outer portion 109 may be configured to fit over circumferential lip / edge 113 of outer casing 102 (with or without additional sealing elements), to thereby close / seal the case. As shown in Fig. IB, the bottom surface / face 134 of compartment 110 (which is configured to fit over the inner casing), includes one or more openings (exemplary openings 133A-B are shown). The openings may be of any desired size, arrangement and / or shape. The openings may be distributed homogenously over the surface, or may be distributed in regions, patches or areas. In some embodiments, each of the openings is covered / reversibly sealed / closed with a combustible, heat and / or pressure sensitive cover material, whereby, in case of fire, temperature elevation (e.g., over a designated value) and / or pressure increase (over a designated value), the cover material may disintegrate, thereby allowing the neutralizing material held within the compartment to be dispersed or be spread at least into the inner casing. In some embodiments, the material is in the form of a mesh, net, lace, etc. In some embodiments, the material is a heat sensitive material. In some exemplary embodiments, the cover material may be a heat sensitive mesh, a fabric, a non-woven material, a polymer-based fabrics, composite fabrics, and the like, or any combinations thereof. Compartment 108 of lid 106 may be at least partially hollow, wherein the internal space thereof (formed between portions 109 and 111) can hold / maintain / store neutralizing material. The neutralizing material may be any type of suitable material, at any form, shape or size, including, for example, beads, pellets, powder, granules, and the like, and may be similar or different than the neutralizing material stored in compartment 110. In some embodiments, compartment 108 is essentially closed, such that the neutralizing material is not dispersed or released from the compartment, even in case of fire, heat or pressure elevation. In some embodiments, the first and second compartments may be integrally formed or may be attached thereto. In some embodiments, the first and second compartments may be made of similar or different materials. In some embodiments, the inner portion 111 and outer portion 109 of compartment 108 may be made of similar or different materials. In some embodiments, the lid may be made of non combustible material, such as, hardened plastic, glass / carbon fiber, flame retardant material, and the like, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments lid 106 may include one or more additional compartments or layers, which may serve as structural support for the lid.

[0055] Reference is now made to Fig. 2A, which shows a schematic front view of the closed container of Fig. 1A, according to some embodiments. As shown in Fig. 2A, container 100 includes latch 116 and holder 114, which are located on the front face of the container. The latch is preferably located / attached to / secured to outer body 102 of the container, and the corresponding holder is located / positioned / attached to / secured to lid 106. When in the closed position, the latch is associated with the holder, such that lid 106 is locked and secured to the outer body, thereby preventing unintended opening of the lid. Fig. 2B shows a schematic front view of the open container of Fig. IB, according to some embodiments. In particular, shown in Fig. 2B, is open lid 106, showing the bottom surface of compartment 110, and the openings thereof (marked are exemplary openings 133 A- D). In the example shown in Fig. 2B, the openings are evenly distributed over the bottom surface of compartment 110, wherein the openings are essentially similar in size and shape. Such a distribution of openings facilities a rapid, directed (aimed) and efficient release or dispersion of a neutralizing material from the internal space / volume of compartment 110, towards the inner casing, in case such is needed (for example, when the energy storage device releases heat, gas and / or fire is induced). Further shown is compartment 108, which is essentially larger in dimension relative to compartment 110, so as to allow positioning the lid over the walls of the outer body, thereby facilitating closing / sealing the container. Reference is now made to Fig. 3A which shows a schematic rear view of the closed container of Fig. 1A, according to some embodiments. As shown in Fig. 3A, container 100 includes hinges 118A-B, which are used to secure / connect / associate the lid and the outer body, to allow swivel movement of the lid around the hinge axis, without undesired detachment of the lid from the casing. The hinges are located on rear wall 103D of outer body 102 and are used to connect the back (rear) regions of lid 106 with the rear region / wall of outer body 102. In some embodiments, as further detailed below, any number or type of hinges, at any distribution may be used. The hinges may be integrally formed with the lid and / or the outer body. In some embodiments, the hinges may be externally attached to the lid and / or to the outer body. In some embodiments, as further detailed blow, the hinges may allow several positions between a fully closed (sealed state) and a fully open state. For example, an intermediate state may be facilitated, whereby, the lid is slightly elevated (opened), forming a narrow or shallow fluid (such as gas) passage between the lid and the outer body, allowing the release of internal pressure within the container. This is illustrated, for example, in Figs. 6A-C below. Fig. 3B shows a schematic rear view of the open container of Fig. IB, according to some embodiments. In particular, shown in Fig. 3 B, is the top (external) surface of open lid 106, which may include grooves or other structures that may be for structural support, functional support (for example, provide handles for holding the lid), and the like. Again, shown are hinges 118A-B, connecting lid 106 and the outer body 102. In some embodiments, hinges 118A-B may have an oval body, facilitating their functionality, in allowing elevation of the rear end of the cover, as detailed below.

[0056] Reference is now made to Fig. 4A, which shows a cross section side view of a closed container of Fig. 1A, according to some embodiments. As shown in Fig 4A, container 100 includes outer body 102 and inner casing 104. Inner casing 104 may include, at an upper region thereof, holes or apertures that may be distributed homogenously over the circumference of the casing or may be arranged in discrete regions. Shown in Fig. 4A are exemplary openings 104A-D. The openings may be similar or different with respect to size and / or shape. The openings may function as vent openings, facilitating gas or pressure release from the inner casing, in case gases are emitted from the energy storage device. In some embodiments, the location of the openings allow a neutralizing material (for example, such that has been released from the compartment of the lid) to remain within the inner casing, at sufficient level to exert a desired effect on heat or fire caused by the energy storage device, while allowing gasses formed to vent via the upper openings. As detailed above, a space is formed between the inner surface of the walls of outer body 102 and the outer surface of the walls of inner casing 104. Exemplary space regions 150A-C are marked in Fig. 4A. Spaces 105A-C may be continuous, or discrete (e.g., each of the spaces is disconnected from the other spaces). In some embodiments, the space may be at least partially filled with a neutralizing material. In some embodiments, the neutralizing material may be the same or different with respect of type, size, shape, amount, concentration as the neutralizing material in the compartments of the lid. In some embodiments, the spaces are prefilled with neutralizing material. Shown in Fig. 4B is a cross section side view of an open container shown in Fig. IB, according to some embodiments. As shown in Fig. 4B, compartment 110 is structured such that it can fit over the top opening of inner casing 104, thereby facilitating engagement or even sealing of the inner casing when the lid is closed. Such structural fitting between the lid compartment and the inner casing top opening further allows the efficient dispersion of a neutralizing material from the compartment into the inner casing, if needed. Further shown is outer / extemal portion 109 of lid 106, which is part of the outer compartment, as detailed above herein. The outer portion 109, being a part of the outer compartment can further provide structural support to the lid and functional capabilities, such as, handles, marking, attachment means, and the like.

[0057] Reference is now made to Fig. 5, which shows a view of the bottom surface of the bottom wall of a container, according to some embodiments. As shown in Fig. 5, bottom wall 112 may include one or more openings, to allow gas release from the container in a safe and controlled manner. Shown in Fig. 5 are openings 160A-D, which allow release or escape of gas or pressure from the inner portion of the container to the environment. In particular, such openings may allow gas to escape or release from the space between the inner casing and the outer body. In some embodiments, any number of openings, at any shape or size may be used. In some embodiments, at least some of the holes may be covered by a gas permeable material, which allows passage of gas molecules therethrough, but does not allow neutralizing material that may be present above the bottom wall (i.e., within the container) to exit the container. In some embodiments, due to the structure of the container, whereby, as detailed above, the bottom surface is elevated over ground level, gases may be freely released via the openings in the bottom surface.

[0058] Reference is now made to Figures 6A-C which show a close-up view of a cross section of hinge region of a container, according to some embodiments. Fig. 6A shows hinge 118A, which is part of or attached to lid 106, at its position within corresponding groove 128A in outer body of the container (rear wall 103D of the outer body is shown). In the position shown in Fig. 6A, the lid is completely closed, i.e., it is essentially sealing the container, and no space is formed between the lid and the outer body. As detailed above, the lid can swivel around the hinge lid between a completely closed position and a completely opened position. In the position shown in Fig. 6B, the lid is slightly elevated over the outer body. Such a position may be attained, for example, when the internal pressure within the container exceeds a designated (predetermined) level. In such a scenario, the hinge is configured to slightly move within its groove thereby inducing slight upward movement of the lid relative to the outer body, to facilitate the formation of a narrow gap between the lid and the outer body. Shown in Fig. 6B is hinge 118A at the slightly elevated position, whereby the hinge is moved within groove 128A, thereby causing a slight elevation (marked by arrow 170) of the lid, and the formation of a narrow gap 180 between lid 106 and outer body 102. Thus, advantageously, such a setting allows pressure release from within the container, without otherwise affecting the functionality of the container in suppressing fire or heat caused by the combustion of the energy storing device. According to some embodiments, in such a position, the inner casing is still closed by the corresponding inner compartment of the lid. Further, in some embodiments, such a position may be assumed, even if the lid is secured to the outer body with the latch, as detailed above. Reference is now made to Fig. 6C which shows the hinge position when the lid is at a completely opened position. As shown in Fig. 6C, when the lid is open, hinge 118A assumes a frontal position in the corresponding groove 128A. Such a lateral movement of the hinge within the corresponding grooves facilitate smooth and safe openings of the lid, while allowing ease of access to the top openings of the outer body and / or the inner casing. In some embodiments, hinge 118A may have an essentially oval shape.

[0059] According to some embodiments, the container disclosed herein facilities the dispersion or spreading of a neutralizing material, when needed, based on designated conditions. Such conditions may include, for example, fire within the inner volume of the container (for example, in the inner casing); heat or temperature increase within the inner volume of the container, pressure increase (for example caused by release of gas) within the inner volume of the container, or any combination thereof. Each possibility is a separate embodiment.

[0060] In some embodiments, if / when heat / temperature increases over a designated level, neutralizing material may be released within the container (for example, from the first compartment of the lid). In some embodiments, the release temperature may be determined based on the temperature in which the mesh of the inner compartment melts / disintegrates. According to some embodiments, a designated temperature value may be, for example, over about 60°C, over about 70 °C, over about 80 °C, over about 90 °C, over about 100 °C, over about 120 °C, over about 150 °C.

[0061] In some embodiments, if / when pressure / temperature increases over a designated level, neutralizing material may be released within the container (for example, from the first compartment of the lid). According to some embodiments, a designated pressure value may be, for example, over about 0.5Bar / 5-10 PSI. In some embodiments, the pressure may be regulated via designated openings in the container. In some embodiments, the pressure may be regulated via a pressure release valve or a one-way valve.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the container disclosed herein may acquire any shape, size or volume. According to some embodiments, the container is UN certified. In some exemplary embodiments, the container is rectangular. In some embodiments, the container may be configured to hold one or more (a plurality) of energy storage devices. In some embodiments, the ratio between the volume defined by outer body and the volume defined by the inner casing may be, for example, but not limited to: about 2: 1, 1.5: 1, or 1.4: 1, or 1.3: 1, or 1.2: 1, or 1.1: 1.

[0063] In some embodiments, at least some of the space formed between the inner casing and the outer body is filled with the neutralizing material, which may be in the form of beads, granules, pellet, powder, or may be packed into sachet or bags placed within the space. The neutralizing material may be added into the internal space, prior to, during or after placing the energy storage device within the inner casing. In some embodiments, the at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% at least 90%, or at least 99% of the space / void within the first compartment of the lid may be filled with a neutralizing material. The neutralizing material in the first compartment may be in any suitable form capable of being dispersed, such as, for example, in the form of beads, powder, granules, small pellets, and the like. In some embodiments, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% at least 90%, or at least 99% of the space / void within the second compartment of the lid may be filled with a neutralizing material. The neutralizing material in the second compartment may be in any suitable form such as, for example, in the form of beads, powder, granules, pellets, packed in discrete bags or sachets, and the like.

[0064] It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure. No feature described in the context of an embodiment is to be considered an essential feature of that embodiment, unless explicitly specified as such.

[0065] As used herein, the indefinite articles “a” and “an” mean “at least one” or “one or more” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0066] Although the disclosure is described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that numerous alternatives, modifications and variations that are apparent to those skilled in the art may exist. Accordingly, the disclosure embraces all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims. It is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth herein. Other embodiments may be practiced, and an embodiment may be carried out in various ways.

[0067] The phraseology and terminology employed herein are for descriptive purpose and should not be regarded as limiting. Citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the disclosure. Section headings are used herein to ease understanding of the specification and should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

[0068] As used herein, the term “about” may be used to specify a value of a quantity or parameter (e.g., the length of an element) to within a continuous range of values in the neighborhood of (and including) a given (stated) value. According to some embodiments, “about” may specify the value of a parameter to be between 80 % and 120 % of the given value. According to some embodiments, “about” may specify the value of a parameter to be between 90 % and 110 % of the given value. According to some embodiments, “about” may specify the value of a parameter to be between 95 % and 105 % of the given value.

[0069] In the description and claims of the application, each of the words “comprise” “include” and “have”, and forms thereof, are not necessarily limited to members in a list with which the words may be associated.

[0070] In the description and claims of the application the expression “at least one of A and B”, (e.g. wherein A and B are elements, method steps, claim limitations, etc.) is equivalent to “only A, only B, or both A and B”. In particular, the expressions “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “one or more of A and B”, and “one or more of A or B” are interchangeable.

[0071] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range. Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

[0072] It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure. No feature described in the context of an embodiment is to be considered an essential feature of that embodiment, unless explicitly specified as such.

[0073] Although steps of methods according to some embodiments may be described in a specific sequence, methods of the disclosure may include some or all of the described steps carried out in a different order. A method of the disclosure may include a few of the steps described or all of the steps described. No particular step in a disclosed method is to be considered an essential step of that method, unless explicitly specified as such.

[0074] The phraseology and terminology employed herein are for descriptive purpose and should not be regarded as limiting. Citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the disclosure. Section headings are used herein to ease understanding of the specification and should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A container for storing or transporting an energy storage device, the container comprising: an outer body, having walls and a top opening; an internal casing having walls and a top opening, configured to hold the energy storing device(s); wherein said internal casing is positioned or formed within the internal volume of the outer body, such that a space is formed between external surface of the walls of the internal casing and the internal surface of the walls of the outer body; and a hinged lid, configured to fit over the top opening of the outer body and / or the internal casing, to thereby close and seal the container; wherein the hinged lid comprises at least two compartments: a first compartment situated at least partially over the internal casing and configured to fit over the top opening of the internal casing; said first compartment comprises at least partially hollow body configured to hold a neutralizing material and release said material from the first compartment towards the internal casing, when the internal temperature in the container is above a designated temperature; and a second compartment situated over the first compartment, said second compartment comprises at least partially hollow body configured to hold a neutralizing material, wherein said neutralizing material is not released from the second compartment to the internal casing; such that if temperature and / or pressure is elevated over a designated value within the internal casing, the neutralizing material is released from the first compartment into the internal casing, thereby at least partially suppressing and / or neutralizing heat, fire and / or gases generated within the internal casing.

2. The container according to claim 1, wherein the second compartment comprises an outer portion and an internal portion.

3. The container according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the first compartment comprises openings at a bottom surface thereof, said openings are covered with a heat sensitive material configured to at least partially disintegrate when the temperature is over a designated value, thereby allowing the release of the neutralizing material held within the body of the first compartment towards the internal casing.

4. The container according to claim 3, wherein the heat sensitive material is a heat sensitive mesh material comprising non-woven material, polymer-based fabrics, composite fabrics, or any combinations thereof.

5. The container according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the second compartment comprises ventilation holes at a bottom surface or an upper surface thereof.

6. The container according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the outer casing is made of plastic.

7. The container according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the bottom surface of the outer casing is elevated relative to ground level.

8. The container according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the bottom surface of the outer casing comprises at least one exhaust opening.

9. The container according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the internal casing is made of or is coated with metal, aluminum and / or a fire resistant material.

10. The container according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the internal casing comprises ventilation holes disposed at an upper portion thereof.

11. The container according to claim 10, wherein the ventilation holes are at least partially covered with a mesh or a filter.

12. The container according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the space between the external surface of the walls of the internal casing and the internal surface of the walls of the outer body is configured to at least partially be filled with the neutralizing material.

13. The container according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein the neutralizing material is configured to suppress fire, absorb heat, absorb gas, absorb acids and / or bases and / or provide insulation of fire within the container.

14. The container according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein the neutralizing material comprises Akku-Grain.

15. The container according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein the lid comprises at least two hinges located at a rear end thereof, moveably connecting the rear end of the lid and the outer body.

16. The container according to any one of claims 1-15, further comprising one or more pistons or springs connecting the lid with the outer body and / or with the internal casing and facilitating movement of the lid.

17. The container according to any one of claims 1-16, further comprising a latch configured to allow locking the lid and the outer body.

18. The container according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein hinges of the lid further allow the lid to move between a sealed position and a vent position, whereby a rear end of the lid is elevated when internal gas pressure in the internal casing exceeds a designated level.

19. The container according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein the lid is configured to elevate from the outer body when internal gas pressure in the internal casing exceeds a designated level.

20. The container according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein the lid is reversibly detachable from the container.

21. The container according to any one of claims 1-20, wherein the energy storing device comprises lithium battery.

22. A system for storing or shipping an energy storing device, the system comprising a container as claimed in any one of claims 1-21; and a neutralizing material at least partially filling the space between the external surface of the walls of the internal casing and the internal surface of the walls ofthe outer body and / or the space within the first compartment and / or the second compartment of the lid.

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