System, method and nozzle for extinguishing thermal events inside a casing

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to a system for extinguishing a thermal event occurring inside a casing, a method for operating the same, and a nozzle for such system. The system comprises: a nozzle including a piercing element for piercing the casing; a portable rescue tool having an actuable tool component; an engaging member that is releasably engageable by the actuable tool component to allow the portable rescue tool to insert the nozzle into a casing and to subsequently release the portable rescue tool from the engaging member; and a locking unit configured to prevent the nozzle from being released from the casing after having been inserted into the casing during operation.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM, METHOD AND NOZZLE FOR EXTINGUISHING THERMAL EVENTS

[0002] INSIDE A CASING

[0003] FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to a system for extinguishing a thermal event occurring inside of a casing, a method for operating the same, and a nozzle for such systems. The present disclosure is particularly useful in safety and / or rescue applications, such as extinguishing a battery fire or a thermal runaway inside a battery casing.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Present day passenger vehicles oftentimes comprise a battery pack for storing energy and providing energy to be able to operate the vehicle. A common example is the battery of an electric vehicle (EV). These batteries often consist of highly flammable cells (e.g., Lithium-ion cells) that may be very sensitive to heat, overpowering, incorrect charging and / or external damage. When overheated, overpowered, incorrectly charged or otherwise damaged, these battery cells tend to start overheating, resulting in a self-ignition state referred to as ‘thermal runaway’. Such thermal runaways are able to cause large fires, extensive damage to surrounding elements (e.g., the vehicle itself) and dangerous situations.

[0007] Since a thermal runaway is a chemical process within the battery cells, and the battery cells are located within a sheet metal casing, firefighters are oftentimes unable to adequately extinguish the fire and, in particular, prevent the thermal runaway from (re)igniting the fire. The vehicle may seem to have been extinguished to do an absence of visible fire, but the thermal runaway state may still be active within the battery cell. Oftentimes, (re)ignition may occur hours or even days after the start of the thermal runaway.

[0008] An adequate method for extinguishing EV-related fires would be to fill the battery pack with a fluid such as water. However, for safety reasons, the battery pack oftentimes has a sheet metal casing to enclose and seal the battery cells. Piercing nozzles as such for piercing this sheet metal casing are known in the art but may require significant force for the piercing portion of the nozzle to penetrate the casing. This adds to the complexity of known products.

[0009] While the above description refers in particular to extinguishing fires and thermal runaways associated with battery packs, a similar issue may be present with fires and / or thermal runaways occurring inside casings (e.g., metal casings) for other types of products or components, such as containers, where piercing the casing is required to adequately reach and extinguish the fire. Thus, while reference may be made to battery packs throughout the present disclosure, it will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0010] SUMMARY

[0011] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an extinguishing system and method in which the abovementioned problems do not occur, or hardly so. In particular, an object of the present disclosure is to facilitate extinguishing fires and / or thermal runaways and reduce an overall complexity of the approach.

[0012] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system for extinguishing a thermal event occurring inside a casing is provided. For example, the system is suitable for extinguishing, preventing or mitigating a fire inside the casing, or for extinguishing, preventing or mitigating a thermal runaway occurring inside the casing. The system comprises a nozzle including a piercing element for piercing the casing, a portable rescue tool having an actuable tool component, an engaging member that is releasably engageable by the actuable tool component to allow the portable rescue tool to insert the nozzle into the casing and allow the portable rescue tool to subsequently release from the engaging member, and a locking unit configured to prevent the nozzle from being released from the casing after having been inserted into the casing during operation.

[0013] In the system in accordance with the present disclosure, conventional portable rescue tools can be utilized together with the engaging member and locking unit defined above to insert a nozzle into a casing by allowing the nozzle to pierce the casing. The portable rescue tool provides the force required for the nozzle to pierce the casing, which may typically be a sheet metal casing.

[0014] Afterwards, the nozzle remains inserted into the casing by the locking unit. Since the engaging member is releasably engageable by the portable rescue tool, the portable rescue tool can subsequently be released from the engaging member. The inserted and locked nozzle can then be coupled to a fluid source to insert fluid into the casing and extinguish the thermal event (e.g., a fire or a thermal runaway) occurring or potentially occurring inside the casing.

[0015] Compared to known approaches, the system according to the present disclosure benefits from a reduced overall complexity and efficient utilization of resources available to rescue workers, which typically have limited capacity for carrying tools on-site. For example, conventional portable rescue tools that are already available to the rescue workers can be used in the system, obviating the need for carrying additional large and / or heavy equipment. Moreover, the portable rescue tool is freed up after having inserted the nozzle due to the locking unit preventing the nozzle from releasing from the casing, allowing rescue workers to utilize the portable rescue tool elsewhere if needed. Moreover, the nozzle can remain inserted and locked into the casing for an extended period of time, for example hours or even days, to allow rescue workers to extinguish any thermal event that may occur or to prevent the occurrence thereof without having to reinsert the nozzle into the casing.

[0016] In a first embodiment, the engaging member may be configured to be releasably attached to the actuable tool component, and the engaging member, when attached to the actuable tool component, may allow the portable rescue tool to engage the nozzle. Accordingly, conventional portable rescue tools may simply be equipped with the engaging member for the purpose of inserting the nozzle into the casing.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the portable rescue tool may be a spreader having a first arm and a second arm, wherein the engaging member is configured to be releasably attached to the first arm.

[0018] For example, the portable rescue tool may be configured to insert the nozzle into the casing by engaging the nozzle using the engaging member, and operating the spreader in a closing direction to cause the piercing element to engage and pierce a first surface of the casing and cause the second arm of the spreader to engage a second surface of the casing. Alternatively, the portable rescue tool may be configured to insert the nozzle into the casing by engaging the nozzle using the engaging member, and operating the spreader in an opening direction to cause the piercing element to engage and pierce a first surface of the casing and cause the second arm of the spreader to engage an external surface opposite the first surface, such as the ground.

[0019] In another further embodiment, the portable rescue tool may be a spreader or a clamp, in which case the engaging member may include a first and second tip that are attachable to a first and second arm of the spreader or clamp, respectively, the first tip being configured to engage the nozzle. During operation, the portable rescue tool may be configured to engage the nozzle using the engaging member to insert the nozzle into the casing by allowing the first and second extension tip to clamp the casing.

[0020] Preferably, the first and second tip may be extension tips forming an extension of the first and second arm of the spreader or clamp, which can allow the spreader to reach the casing more easily, for example such that the system can be used in situations where the casing is in a position (e.g., inside a vehicle) that is more difficult to reach with the spreader without said extension tips.

[0021] The first tip may also be configured to be releasably attachable to the nozzle. After inserting the nozzle into the casing with the first extension tip attached to the nozzle, the portable rescue tool may be released from the nozzle by releasing the first tip from the portable rescue tool, or releasing the first tip from the nozzle.

[0022] In a further example, the locking unit may comprise a connection element (e.g., a plate and / or a spindle), configured to be coupled between the first and second tip to mutually fixate the first and second tip while the first and second tip clamp the casing. The portable rescue tool may then be configured to be released from the nozzle by releasing (e.g., detaching) the first and second tip from the portable rescue tool.

[0023] The nozzle may comprise a gripping portion adapted to be gripped by the engaging member to allow the portable rescue tool to engage the nozzle using the engaging member.

[0024] In a yet another further embodiment, the portable rescue tool may be a ram, such as a telescopic ram.

[0025] Alternatively to the above, the engaging member may be attached, preferably releasably attached, to the nozzle. Also in this example, conventional portable rescue tools can be used to insert the nozzle into the casing.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the engaging member may comprise a clamp having a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion, the clamp being configured to perform a clamping action when the engaging member is engaged by the portable rescue tool. During operation, the first clamp portion and the second clamp portion may be configured to be arranged facing a first surface of the casing and a second surface of the casing, respectively. The piercing element may be arranged or configured to be arranged at the first clamp portion. The first clamp portion and the second clamp portion may be movable relative to one another in a rotating or translating manner.

[0027] In an even further embodiment, the portable rescue tool may be a spreader, and the portable rescue tool may be configured to insert the nozzle into the casing by engaging the engaging member with the spreader being operated in a closing or opening direction to cause the piercing element to engage and pierce the first surface of the casing and cause the second clamp portion to engage the second surface of the casing. For example, the engaging member may further comprise at least one protruding portion that protrudes from the first clamp portion and / or second clamp portion, by which the portable rescue tool is configured engage the engaging member.

[0028] The locking unit may be configured to, when the nozzle is inserted into the casing during operation, maintain a position of the first clamp portion relative to the second clamp portion to maintain the clamping action. Once the nozzle is ‘locked’ into the casing by the locking unit, the operator can freely release the portable rescue tool from the engaging member and moved away to be used for other purposes. This is particularly beneficial in rescue and safety applications, where quick access to and availability of portable rescue tools can be vital.

[0029] For example, the clamp may comprise a plurality of protrusions arranged along a clamping direction, and at least one first locking element (e.g., a hook, or the like) forming at least part of the locking unit. The at least one first locking element may be configured to, when the portable rescue tool is released from the engaging member, engage at least one of the plurality of protrusions to allow the clamp to maintain the clamping action. The at least one first locking element may optionally be spring-urged so as to urge the at least one first locking element to move into a position to engage the at least one of the plurality of protrusions.

[0030] In a further example, each of the plurality of protrusions may be positively inclined in the clamping direction. This effectively allows the at least one first locking element to move more easily along a first direction in which the plurality of protrusions are positively inclined, whereas the protrusions prevent or obstruct movement of the first locking element along a second, opposing direction, to implement the locking of the clamping action.

[0031] In any of the above-described embodiments, the nozzle may comprise at least one second locking element (e.g., a hook, or the like) arranged at or near the piercing element. The at least one second locking element may form at least part of the locking unit. Here, the locking is implemented internally to the casing and removes the need for external locking components, reducing the overall complexity of the system in general and nozzle in particular.

[0032] For example, the at least one second locking element (e.g., a hook, or the like) may be configured to move from a protruding position into a retracted position inside the nozzle by the insertion of the nozzle into the casing or alternatively, to be (e.g., manually) operated to move from the protruding position into the retracted position prior to insertion of the nozzle into the casing. Furthermore, the at least one second locking element may be configured to move, or be (e.g., manually) operated to move from the retracted position to the protruding position inside the casing after the nozzle has been inserted into the casing beyond a position of the at least one second locking element, thereby preventing the nozzle from releasing from the casing.

[0033] Optionally, the at least one second locking element may be spring-urged so as to urge the at least one second locking element to move into the protruding position. In that case, for example, when the nozzle is being inserted into the casing, a force exerted by the casing on the at least one second locking element may counteract the spring force and cause the at least one second locking element to move from the protruding position via intermediate positions into the retracted position. Once the nozzle is sufficiently inserted into the casing (i.e., beyond the position of the at least one second locking element along the nozzle), there no longer is a counteracting force, allowing the at least one second locking element to be urged back into the protruding position within the casing by a spring force. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this spring-urged operation, and the at least one second locking element may instead be moved manually between the protruding and retracted position by an operator to implement the locking.

[0034] The locking unit may further comprise a releasing member configured to be (e.g., manually) operable to allow the nozzle to be released from the casing. For example, the releasing member may include a rotatable pin exposed at an end portion of the nozzle and may be configured to allow an operator to engage the at least one second locking element to cause the at least one second locking element to move from the protruding position to the retracted position. While in the retracted position, the at least one second locking element may no longer prevent the nozzle from releasing from the casing and allows an operator to remove the nozzle from the casing, for example after completing the extinguishing action.

[0035] The nozzle may further comprise a spring surrounding a housing of the nozzle, which spring may be configured to, when the nozzle is inserted into the casing beyond a predetermined depth and further than the position of the at least one second locking element, apply a spring force to urge the nozzle in an outward direction from the casing and press the at least one second locking element against an inner surface of the casing. Accordingly, when inserted into the casing, the nozzle may have a more stable position. Additionally, the nozzle may first be inserted into the casing until a first depth, and may then slightly retract back to a second depth due to the spring force by the spring, which may provide empty space for extinguishing fluid to be provided inside the casing. This may facilitate the application of extinguishing fluid to the inside of the casing.

[0036] The nozzle may include a threaded outer surface configured to engage the casing, the threaded outer surface forming at least part of the locking unit.

[0037] At least during operation, the nozzle may be configured to allow extinguishing fluid (e.g., water) from an extinguishing fluid supply, connected to the nozzle, to be provided into an interior of the casing when the nozzle is inserted into the casing.

[0038] For example, the nozzle may comprise a fluid inlet configured to be coupled to a extinguishing fluid supply, a fluid outlet at or near the piercing element, and a fluid channel between the fluid inlet and fluid outlet extending inside the nozzle.

[0039] The fluid outlet may comprise a plurality of openings in fluid connection with the fluid channel. Preferably, the plurality of openings may be provided in respective recessed portions of the nozzle.

[0040] The system may further comprise the extinguishing fluid supply. Of course, it is also envisaged that a fluid supply external to the system is used as the fluid source. As an example only, a local fire hydrant near a site where the casing is located may be used as the fluid source. In another example, the extinguishing fluid supply may be incorporated in a fire truck, which enables rescue workers to conveniently deploy on-site both the fluid supply and the system according to the present disclosure.

[0041] In practice, the system may be operated by coupling the extinguishing fluid supply to the nozzle after inserting the nozzle into the casing and may be decoupled after completing the extinguishing action. Of course, it is also envisaged that the extinguishing fluid supply is coupled to the nozzle prior to inserting the nozzle into the casing.

[0042] The piercing element may be configured for piercing through a sheet metal of the casing.

[0043] The thermal event may for example be a fire or a thermal runaway that is occurring or may be occurring inside the casing. The portable rescue tool may be a hydraulic tool.

[0044] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating the abovedescribed system is provided. The method comprises engaging the nozzle with the portable rescue tool via the engaging member, inserting the nozzle into the casing using the portable rescue tool by piercing the casing with the piercing element of the nozzle, locking the nozzle with the locking unit to prevent the nozzle from being released from the casing, and releasing the portable rescue tool from the engaging member to release the portable rescue tool from the nozzle.

[0045] With the method in accordance with the present disclosure, the portable rescue tool can be freed up after locking the nozzle with the locking unit. In addition, the locking unit enables keeping the nozzle inserted into the casing for an extended period of time, such as hours or even days. This allows rescue workers to, if needed, easily extinguish any thermal event that may occur or prevent such thermal event from occurring in the future, without having to re-insert the nozzle.

[0046] Here, it is noted that the locking of the nozzle with the locking unit may be performed manually or may be performed automatically by the system upon insertion of the nozzle, as already described above with reference to the system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0047] The method may further comprise, as part of the extinguishing of the thermal event, coupling an extinguishing fluid supply to the nozzle before or after inserting the nozzle into the casing, and providing fluid (e.g., water) into an inside of the casing through the nozzle after having been inserted into the casing.

[0048] The method may further comprise transporting the casing, or a device such as a vehicle which encompasses the casing, to a different location and holding the casing at said different location with the nozzle remaining inserted into the casing.

[0049] In this manner, a thermal event such as a fire or thermal runaway can be extinguished at said different location using the nozzle that is already inserted into the casing. In other words, the steps of engaging the nozzle via the engaging member, inserting the nozzle, and locking the nozzle do not need to be performed again, and the tools required for such operations are accordingly also not needed at the location to which the casing is transported. Of course, once the risk of fire is mitigated or at least reduced significantly, the nozzle can be released from the casing to be reused for an extinguishing action for a next casing.

[0050] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a nozzle is provided, preferably being a nozzle that is configured to be used in the system according to the embodiments defined above. The nozzle is configured to be inserted into a casing by a portable rescue tool and comprises a piercing element configured to pierce the casing as part of insertion of the nozzle into the casing, and a locking unit configured to prevent the nozzle from being released from the casing after having been inserted into the casing during operation. The nozzle may comprise at least one locking element (e.g., a hook, or the like) arranged at or near the piercing element. The at least one locking element may form at least part of the locking unit.

[0051] The at least one locking element may be configured to, during operation, move from a protruding position into a retracted position inside the nozzle by the insertion of the nozzle into the casing, or be (e.g., manually) operated to move from the protruding position into the retracted position before insertion of the nozzle into the casing. Additionally, the at least one locking element may be configured to move, or be (e.g., manually) operated to move, from the retracted position to the protruding position inside the casing after the nozzle has been inserted into the casing beyond a position of the at least one locking element, thereby preventing the nozzle from releasing from the casing. Preferably, the at least one locking element may be spring-urged so as to urge the at least one locking element to move into the protruding position.

[0052] The locking unit may further comprise a releasing member configured to be (e.g., manually) operable to allow the nozzle to be released from the casing.

[0053] The releasing member may include a movable (e.g., rotatable) pin. The movable pin may be exposed at an end portion of the nozzle and may be configured to engage the at least one locking element to cause the at least one locking element to move from the protruding position to the retracted position. This allows an operator to remove the nozzle from the casing, for example after completing the extinguishing action.

[0054] The nozzle may further comprise an engaging member. The engaging member may include a clamp having a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion. The clamp may be configured to perform a clamping action when the engaging member is engaged by the portable rescue tool. During operation, the first clamp portion and the second clamp portion may be configured to be arranged facing a first surface of the casing and a second surface of the casing, respectively. The piercing element may be arranged or configured to be arranged at the first clamp portion. The first clamp portion and the second clamp portion may be movable relative to one another in a rotating or translating manner.

[0055] The locking unit may be configured to, when the nozzle is inserted into the casing during operation, maintain a position of the first clamp portion relative to the second clamp portion to maintain a clamping action.

[0056] The clamp may comprise a plurality of protrusions arranged along a clamping direction, and at least one further locking element (e.g., a hook, or the like) which forms at least part of the locking unit. The at least one further locking element may be configured to, when the portable rescue tool is released from the engaging member, engage at least one of the plurality of protrusions to allow the clamp to maintain the clamping action. Preferably, the at least one further locking element may be spring-urged so as to urge the at least one further locking element to move into a position to engage the at least one of the plurality of protrusions.

[0057] Each of the plurality of protrusions may be positively inclined in the clamping direction.

[0058] The nozzle may include a threaded outer surface configured to engage the casing to form at least part of the locking unit.

[0059] During operation, the nozzle may for example be configured to allow extinguishing fluid from an extinguishing fluid supply, connected to the nozzle, to be provided into an interior of the casing when the nozzle is inserted into the casing.

[0060] The nozzle may comprise a fluid inlet configured to be coupled to a fluid source, a fluid outlet at or near the piercing element, and a fluid channel between the fluid inlet and fluid outlet extending inside the nozzle.

[0061] The fluid outlet may comprise a plurality of openings in fluid connection with the fluid channel. Preferably, the plurality of openings may be provided in respective recessed portions of the nozzle.

[0062] Additional aspects and / or embodiments of the present disclosure may become apparent from the detailed description below.

[0063] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] Next, the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:

[0065] FIG. 1A and IB illustrate exemplary portable rescue tools that are suitable for a system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0066] FIG. 2A - 2C illustrate a nozzle according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0067] FIG. 3 illustrates a nozzle according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0068] FIG. 4A and 4B illustrate a nozzle according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0069] FIG. 5A and 5B illustrate a nozzle according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0070] FIG. 6A and 6B illustrate a perspective view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of a spreader with extension tips engaging a nozzle for insertion of the nozzle into a casing by a closing action of the spreader;

[0071] FIG. 7A and 7B illustrate a side view and perspective view, respectively, of a spreader engaging a nozzle using an engaging member for insertion of the nozzle into a casing by a closing action of the spreader; FIG. 8A and 8B schematically illustrate insertion of a nozzle into a casing using a closing action of a spreader;

[0072] FIG. 9A and 9B illustrate a side view and perspective view, respectively, of a spreader engaging a nozzle using an engaging member for insertion of the nozzle into a casing by an opening action of the spreader;

[0073] FIG. 10A and 10B schematically illustrate insertion of a nozzle into a casing using an opening action of a spreader;

[0074] FIG. 11 A and 1 IB schematically illustrate the insertion of a nozzle into a casing using a closing action of a spreader, in which the engaging member is attached to the nozzle;

[0075] FIG. 12A and 12B schematically illustrate the insertion of a nozzle into a casing using an opening action of a spreader, in which the engaging member is attached to the nozzle;

[0076] FIG. 13A and 13B schematically illustrate the insertion of a nozzle into a casing using a ram;

[0077] FIG. 14A - 14C schematically illustrate a nozzle inserted into a casing and locked into the casing by a locking unit, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0078] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating the system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0079] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] Hereinafter, reference will be made to the appended drawings. It should be noted that identical reference signs in different figures will be used to refer to identical or similar components. Moreover, unless explicitly stated otherwise, various elements shown in the appended drawings may not be drawn to scale, and parts may be exaggerated or omitted for convenience of explanation.

[0081] In the ensuing description below, reference will be made to various individual components of the system according to the present disclosure. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the respective embodiments of each component may be combinable in said system in various ways. In any case, the system according to the present disclosure comprises a portable rescue tool, a nozzle, an engaging member, and a locking unit. Throughout the various embodiments, at least part of the engaging member can be integrated in, coupled to, or releasably attached to the portable rescue tool and / or to the nozzle. Similarly, at least part of the locking unit can form part of or be integrated in, coupled to, or releasably attached to the nozzle and / or to the engaging unit.

[0082] FIG. 1A and IB illustrate exemplary portable rescue tools that are suitable for a system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular, the portable rescue tools shown in FIG. 1A and IB may for example correspond to tools as described in WO 2020 / 043843 Al. For convenience of explanation, parts of the detailed description of components, operation and functionality of the tools are therefore omitted.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 1A, the portable rescue tool may be a spreader 100 having a first arm 101a and a second arm 101b, which form the actuable tool component of spreader 100, and may also be referred to as the ‘functional part’ of the portable rescue tool. In this example, a first tip 102a is provided and mechanically attached to an end portion of first arm 101a, for example by means of a protrusion 103a on first arm 101a extending through an opening of first tip 102a. Similarly, a second tip 102b is provided and mechanically attached to an end portion of second arm 101b by means of a protrusion 103b on second arm 101b extending through an opening of second tip 102b. In this example, protrusions 103a, 103b may be spring-urged so as to urge them in an outward direction to protrude from first and second arm 101a, 101b. By engaging protrusions 103a, 103b and forcing them into a retracted position, first and second tip 102a, 102b can be detached from first and second arm 101a, 101b, respectively. Of course, other means of attaching first and second tip 102a, 102b to first and second arm 101a, 101b are also envisaged.

[0084] Spreader 100 further includes a housing 104 that may form an outer structure thereof and can house various components of spreader 100, such as drive elements for driving the actuable tool component (i.e., formed at least in part by first and second arm 101a, 101b). Spreader 100 may have a handle 105 for an operator to more easily hold and operate spreader 100. Spreader 100 may further include a control device 106 which via which the operator can control spreader 100.

[0085] Typically, a spreader such as spreader 100 is suitable to be used for a spreading action or a squeezing action. This can be performed by actuating the first and second arm 101a, 101b to operate in an opening direction or closing direction, respectively. In the closing direction (i.e., the squeezing action), when spreader 100 engages an external element, a pulling action can additionally be performed (e.g., manually). In an example, control device 106 may be used to control the action performed by spreader 100.

[0086] As shown in FIG. IB, the portable rescue tool may be a ram 200, such as a telescopic ram. In this particular example, different attachable ram elements 202a, 202b can be attached to an attachment portion 201 of ram 200. For example, said ram elements 202a, 202b may have complementary attaching means to be able to attach and mechanically lock them onto attachment portion 201. Attachable ram elements 202a, 202b may be ram elements that are designed for different ram purposes, i.e., to be used in different situations. For example, the different attachable ram elements 202a, 202b may have a different length and / or a different end portion as illustrated in FIG. IB. Of course, other components could equally be designed with complementary attaching means to be able to attach them to attachment portion 201. Ram 200 further includes a housing 203 that may form an external structure of ram 200 and may house various components of ram 200, such as a drive, energy source, or the like. Ram 200 further includes a handle 204 for an operator to more easily hold and operate ram 200.

[0087] The portable rescue tools in the present disclosure may be non-integrated, semi-integrated, or fully integrated, and the present disclosure is not limited to portable rescue tools with any particular level of integration.

[0088] In a non-integrated portable rescue tool, the portable rescue tool itself only includes the actuable tool component and (a portion of) the drive (e.g., a pump). External elements are usually required to operate such tools, including at least one of a hose to connect to the drive, a motor, a power output device, an external energy source (e.g., a battery), or the like.

[0089] In a semi-integrated portable rescue tool, the motor and the power output device may be included in the portable rescue tool, in which case mainly an external energy source is further required to be connected to the portable rescue tool.

[0090] In a fully integrated portable rescue tool, the energy source is additionally integrated in the portable rescue tool, and the portable rescue tool can be operated without the need for any external components. Of course, a fully integrated powered rescue tool may be preferable in rescue and safety applications to remove the need for additional actions and / or material during operation.

[0091] FIG. 2A - 2C illustrate a side view, perspective view, and cross-sectional view, respectively, of a nozzle 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] Nozzle 10 comprises a piercing element 11 which is configured to pierce material, such as a sheet metal material. In particular, nozzle 10 is to be used in a system in accordance with the present disclosure, in which piercing element 11 is configured to be inserted a casing (e.g., of a battery pack) by a portable rescue tool, by piercing the casing with piercing element 11.

[0093] During operation in a system according to the present disclosure, nozzle 10 may be configured to allow extinguishing fluid from an extinguishing fluid supply, connected to nozzle 10, to be provided into an interior of the casing when nozzle 10 is inserted into the casing. To that end, nozzle 10 may include a fluid inlet 12a, that is connectable to the extinguishing fluid supply (e.g., directly or via a hose), a fluid outlet 12c, and a fluid channel 12b connecting fluid inlet 12a and fluid outlet 12c.

[0094] At or near fluid inlet 12a, attachment means 13 may be provided that enable an external fluid supply (e.g., a hose thereof) to be releasably coupled to nozzle 10 in a manner that ensures tight fluid communication. As will be appreciated by the skilled person, various possible attachment means are possible which enable mechanical locking and liquid-tight fluid communication with fluid inlet 12a.

[0095] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 A - 2C, fluid outlet 12c includes a plurality of openings arranged at or near piercing element 11. In particular, as shown in FIG. 2B adjacent to piercing element 11, one or more openings 12c-l of the plurality of openings may be provided in a recessed portion of nozzle 10 (e.g., in a recessed portion of piercing element 11) which enables extinguished fluid to more easily be provided into the casing after piercing the casing due to additional space provided by the recessed portions.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, piercing element 11 has a tapered shape, such as a conical shape as shown in FIG. 2A - 2C. This not only enhances the piercing ability of piercing element 11 , but also allows extinguishing fluid to be provided into the casing more easily during operation. For example, extinguishing fluid may be more easily provided into a space between an outer surface of the casing (e.g., the battery housing) an inner structure thereof (e.g., the individual battery cells) when piercing element 11 has a tapered or conical shape, rather than a cylindrical shape.

[0097] The system according to the present disclosure comprises an engaging member that is releasably engageable by the actuable tool component of the portable rescue tool to allow the portable rescue tool to insert the nozzle into the casing by piercing the casing with the piercing element, and to allow the portable rescue tool to subsequently release from the engaging member. Nozzle 10 as shown in FIG. 2A - 2C may be engageable by a portable rescue tool (e.g., spreader 100 or ram 200) in one or more manners.

[0098] In an example, during operation, an engaging member may be attached, preferably releasably attached, to the portable rescue tool, which engaging member can engage nozzle 10. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 A - 2C, the engaging member can be configured to be inserted into, or engage, an opening 14 provided in a structure of nozzle 10 to allow the engaging member to engage nozzle 10. For example, the engaging member is configured to engage nozzle 10 from the side, i.e., perpendicularly to the orientation of piercing element 11, which may be particularly suited for a spreader. Opening 14 can also be considered part of the engaging member.

[0099] In another example, nozzle 10 can be releasably attached to the portable rescue tool via a nozzle attachment portion 15 provided opposite to piercing element 11. Nozzle attachment portion 15 may be designed to be complementary to an attachment portion of a portable rescue tool, such as attachment portion 201 of ram 200 of FIG. IB. Here, attachment portion 201 then forms part of the engaging member which allows the portable rescue tool (e.g., ram 200 of FIG. IB) to engage nozzle 10. Of course, nozzle attachment portion 15 can also be considered part of the engaging member.

[0100] In a further example, nozzle 10 may include releasing means 16 which, when actuated, enables detaching nozzle attachment portion 15 from the portable rescue tool. Releasing means 16 may for example include a button that can be actuated to cause the mechanical locking between nozzle attachment portion 15 and the portable rescue tool to release. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various alternative realizations of releasing means 16 are possible. The system according to the present disclosure further includes a locking unit that is configured to prevent the nozzle from being released from the casing after having been inserted into the casing during operation. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A - 2C, at least part of the locking unit is integrated in nozzle 10 in the form of locking elements 17 which can be moved from a protruding position as shown in FIG 2A - 2C, to a retracted position flush with or inside a housing of nozzle 10. When nozzle 10 is inserted into the casing and locking elements 17 are in the protruding position, nozzle 10 can be prevented from being released from the casing due to locking elements 17 engaging an inner surface of the casing and ‘locking’ nozzle 10 inside the casing. In this example, locking elements 17 may be hooks or hook-shaped elements, though alternative shapes with identical or similar functionality are equally envisaged.

[0101] Locking elements 17 may be configured to automatically move to the protruding position during insertion of nozzle 10 during insertion of nozzle 10 into the casing. For example, locking elements 17 may be spring-urged so as to urge locking elements 17 into the protruding position. As shown in FIG. 2 A - 2C, locking elements 17 may be rotatably coupled to a housing of nozzle 10 and may be slanted outward in a direction opposite to the insertion direction (i.e., upward in FIG. 2A - 2C). During insertion, the casing may press against locking elements 17 and overcome the spring force, thereby causing locking elements 17 to move into the retracted position. Once nozzle 10 is inserted sufficiently deeply into the casing and the casing no longer presses against locking elements 17, the spring force may cause locking elements 17 to return into the protruding position while inside the casing, thereby preventing nozzle 10 from being released from the casing.

[0102] Alternatively, or additionally, locking elements 17 may be manually operable to be moved into the retracted position prior to inserting nozzle 10 into the casing, and to be moved into the protruding position after inserting nozzle 10 into the casing. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A - 2 C, a releasing member 18 (e.g., a pin) may be manually actuated to push against a portion of locking elements 17 and cause them to rotate inward to the retracted position. When releasing member 18 is retracted, however, locking elements 17 may return to the protruding position (e.g., by a spring force). Releasing member 18 may for example be actuated at a bottom end thereof as shown in FIG. 2 A - 2C, which is exposed to an outside of nozzle 10.

[0103] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a nozzle 20 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Similarly to nozzle 10 of FIG. 2A - 2C, nozzle 20 of FIG. 3 comprises a piercing element 21, a fluid inlet 22a, a fluid channel 22b, a fluid outlet 22c in the form of a plurality of openings, attachment means 23, and locking elements 25. A detailed description thereof is therefore omitted.

[0104] Nozzle 20 comprises a gripping portion 24, adapted to allow an engaging member to engage nozzle 20. For example, such an engaging member is releasably attached to a portable rescue tool and enables the portable rescue tool to releasably engage nozzle 20 for insertion into a casing. Once nozzle 20 is inserted into the casing and locked into the casing by locking elements 25, the portable rescue tool can be released from nozzle 20 by releasing the engaging member from the portable rescue tool or releasing the engaging member form gripping portion 24.

[0105] Although not shown in FIG. 3, a releasing member, identical or similar to releasing member 18 of nozzle 20 of FIG. 2A - 2C, may be included in nozzle 20 which can actuate locking elements 25 to move from the protruding position to the retracted position, and optionally also vice versa. For clarity and convenience of illustration, such a releasing member is however omitted from FIG. 3.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 3, nozzle 20 is configured to be engaged from the side - i.e., perpendicularly to an insertion direction (i.e., upwards in FIG. 3) - and is therefore particularly suitable for use in combination with a spreader (e.g., spreader 100 of FIG. 1A). Moreover, different from nozzle 10 of FIG. 2 A - 2C, nozzle 20 of FIG. 3 has its fluid inlet 22a arranged at an opposite end to piercing element 21.

[0107] FIG. 4A and 4B are cross-sectional views of a nozzle 30 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Similar to nozzle 10 of FIG. 2 A - 2C and nozzle 20 of FIG. 3, nozzle 30 of FIG. 4A and 4B includes a piercing element 31, a fluid inlet 32a, a fluid channel 32b, a fluid outlet 32c, attachment means 33, a locking element 34, a releasing member 35. A detailed description thereof is therefore omitted.

[0108] For illustrative purposes, nozzle 30 is shown in a configuration in which it has been inserted through an outer surface (e.g., a sheet metal) of a casing 1. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 4A and 4B, attachment means 33 of nozzle 30 is shown to be coupled to a hose 2 via its attachment means 33.

[0109] FIG. 4A illustrates nozzle 30 with locking element 34 in the retracted position, and FIG. 4B illustrates nozzle 30 with locking element 34 in the protruding position 34. As shown in FIG. 4B in particular, when nozzle 30 is sufficiently deeply inserted into casing 1 , locking element 34 may move (or may be manually moved) to a protruding position within casing 1 to prevent nozzle 30 from being released from casing 1 during operation. In this example, releasing member 35 may be a rotatable pin with a recessed end portion that engages locking element 34. Releasing member 35 can be actuated (e.g., rotated) to cause locking element 34 move from the protruding to the retracted position or vice versa, as illustrated using FIG. 4A and 4B.

[0110] Similarly to nozzle 10, 20 of the preceding figures, nozzle 30 of FIG. 4A and 4B can be releasably engaged by an engaging member to allow a portable rescue tool to engage nozzle 30 and insert it into casing 1 by piercing casing 1 with piercing element 31. This will be further described below with reference to FIG. 6 A and 6B and FIG. 13A and 13B.

[0111] In this embodiment, nozzle 30 further comprises a spring 36, for example arranged around a housing of nozzle 30. When nozzle 30 is inserted into casing 1 beyond a certain depth, an outer surface of casing 1 will start compressing spring 36 during insertion. Accordingly, spring 36 will exert a spring force to urge nozzle 30 in an outward direction from casing 1. After insertion of nozzle 30 and locking of nozzle 30 by locking element 34, spring 36 may exert a force on an outside of casing 1 whereas locking element 34 exerts an opposing force on an inside of casing 1. This configuration may provide a more stable position of nozzle 30 after insertion and for example during use or transport.

[0112] FIG 5A and 5B illustrate a side view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of a nozzle 40 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Similarly to nozzle 10, 20, 30 of FIG. 2A- 2C, FIG. 3, and FIG. 4A and 4B, respectively, nozzle 40 of FIG. 5A and 5B includes a piercing element 41, a fluid inlet 42a, a fluid channel 42b, a fluid outlet 42c, and attachment means 43.

[0113] Furthermore, similarly to FIG. 4A and 4B, nozzle 40 of FIG. 5 A and 5B is shown in a configuration in which it is inserted into casing 1 and coupled to hose 2.

[0114] In this embodiment, instead of locking elements 17, 25, 34, nozzle 40 includes a threaded outer surface 44 as at least part of the locking unit of the system according to the present disclosure. Of course, threaded outer surface 44 may also be implemented in conjunction with one of locking elements 17, 25, 34, each forming at least part of the locking unit.

[0115] After insertion of nozzle 40 into casing 1 , threaded outer surface 44 may prevent nozzle 40 from releasing from casing 1 during operation due to its engagement with part of casing 1. For example, a force required to move nozzle 40 in a direction opposite to the insertion direction (i.e., downward in FIG. 5A and 5B) may be relatively high to be able to withstand external force and maintain nozzle 40 inserted into casing 1. After use, nozzle 40 can instead be removed from casing 1 by rotating nozzle 40 to thereby ‘unscrew’ nozzle 40 from casing 1 along the thread of threaded outer surface 44.

[0116] Instead of or in addition to the locking unit being integrated in the nozzle, for example as described above with reference to nozzle 10 of FIG. 2A - 2C, nozzle 20 of FIG. 3, nozzle 30 of FIG. 4A and 4B, and nozzle 40 of FIG. 5 A and 5B, the locking unit may be formed at least in part by a component that is external to the nozzle. This will for example be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6 A and 6B, FIG. 11A and 11B, FIG. 12A and 12B, and FIG. 14A - 14C.

[0117] FIG. 6A and 6B illustrate a perspective view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of the system during operation, according to an embodiment the present disclosure. Here, the portable rescue tool is a spreader (e.g., spreader 100 of FIG. 1 A), and nozzle 30 from FIG. 4A and 4B is used as the nozzle in this example. It is however noted that nozzle 30 could equally be substituted by nozzle 10, nozzle 20, or nozzle 40 or alternative conceivable embodiments thereof. For convenience of illustration, part of spreader 100 is omitted in FIG. 6 A.

[0118] In this embodiment, the engaging member includes a first extension tip 3a that is releasably attachable to a first arm 101a of spreader 100 as shown in FIG. 6 A and 6B. For example, using spreader 100 of FIG. 1 A as an example, first and second tips 102a, 102b may be removed (i.e., detached) from spreader 100 and replaced with first extension tip 3a and a second extension tip 3b, respectively, as shown in FIG. 6A and 6B.

[0119] First extension tip 3a may be releasably coupled to nozzle 30 and may be released from nozzle 30 via releasing means 4, such as a (spring-biased) button which, when actuated by an operator, removes the mechanical locking between first extension tip 3a and nozzle 30. In an alternative configuration, although not shown in FIG. 6A and 6B, first extension tip 3a may be fixedly attached to nozzle 30 or may be integrally formed therewith.

[0120] Second extension tip 3b may be a mirrored counterpart to first extension tip 3 a, for example having similar dimensions. As shown in FIG. 6A and 6B, second extension tip 3b may have a contact plate 5 arranged at an end portion thereof. Contact plate 5 may for example have grooves or a pattern formed therein, and / or may be made of a material with a high friction coefficient such as rubber, such that contact plate 5 can adequately engage a surface of casing 1.

[0121] To insert nozzle 30 into casing 1, first and second extension tip 3a, 3b may be attached to first and second arm 101a, 101b of spreader 100, respectively, for example by means of protrusions 103a, 103b extending through an opening in first and second tip 3a, 3b. Additionally, if nozzle 30 is separate from first extension tip 3a, nozzle 30 is attached to first extension tip 3a prior to insertion of nozzle 30.

[0122] Nozzle 30 is then inserted into casing 1 by spreader 100 via the engaging member formed by first extension tip 3a (and second extension tip 3b) by engaging a first surface of casing 1 with the piercing element (e.g., piercing element 31) of nozzle 30 and engaging a second, opposing surface of casing 1 with second extension tip 3b (e.g., with contact plate 5) to thereby clamp casing 1, as shown in FIG. 6 A. By operating spreader 100 in a closing (i.e., squeezing) direction, a force is exerted by spreader 100 on casing 1 causing the piercing element of nozzle 30 to pierce casing 1.

[0123] Once sufficiently inserted into casing 1 , the locking unit is used to lock nozzle 30 inside casing 1 - for example using a locking unit including one or more of locking elements 17, 25, 34 or a threaded outer surface 44 - and thereby prevent nozzle 30 from releasing from casing 1 during operation.

[0124] To subsequently release spreader 100 from engaging nozzle 30, releasing means 4 may be engaged to release the mechanical attachment between first extension tip 3a and nozzle 30. Spreader 100, along with first and second extension tip 3a, 3b, can then be moved away from nozzle 30 and used elsewhere. In that case, only nozzle 30 remains engaged with casing 1.

[0125] Alternatively, for example if first extension tip 3a is rigidly connected or integrally formed with nozzle 30, spreader 100 may be released from engaging nozzle 30 by detaching first extension tip 3a from first spreader arm 101a, and optionally detaching second extension tip 3b from second arm 101b. As shown in FIG. 6B, spreader 100 may be detached from first and second extension tip 3a, 3b after insertion of nozzle 30. Additionally, the locking unit may further comprise a connection element 6 (e.g., a connection plate or a spindle) which is coupled between first and second extension tip 3a, 3b after insertion of nozzle 30 into casing 1 to maintain a relative distance between first and second extension tip 3a, 3b and thereby also maintain the clamping force. Connection element 6 may form at least part of the locking unit, in that it prevents nozzle 30 from releasing from casing 1 during operation due to the clamping force being maintained by first and second extension tip 3a, 3b.

[0126] In this example, there is no need for the locking unit to also be partially integrated into the nozzle, and components such as locking elements 17, 25, 34 or threaded outer surface 44 could be omitted. Hence, although nozzles 10, 20, 30, 40 of FIG. 2A - 2C, FIG. 3, FIG. 4A and 4B, and FIG. 5 A and 5B, respectively, each comprise at least part of the locking unit, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the locking unit may be entirely external to the nozzle. Of course, it is also envisaged for the locking unit to comprise multiple or even all of the described components.

[0127] To release nozzle 30 from casing 1 in FIG. 6B, connection element 6 may be decoupled from first and second extension arm 3a, 3b, thereby removing the clamping force. Additionally, if needed, the locking mechanism inside nozzle 30 can be actuated to allow nozzle 30 to be released from casing 1.

[0128] FIG. 7A and 7B illustrate a side view and corresponding perspective view of spreader 100 engaging nozzle 20 with an engaging member, in this embodiment a gripper 7. For convenience of illustration, part of spreader 100 is omitted from FIG. 7A and 7B. Moreover, although nozzle 20 is shown in FIG. 7A and 7B, the same could equally be applied to nozzle 10, 30, or 40, or alternative conceivable embodiments thereof.

[0129] In this embodiment, first tip 102a as shown in FIG. 1A is replaced with gripper 7, which engages an outer surface of nozzle 20 (e.g., gripping portion 24 of FIG. 3). The piercing element of nozzle 20 faces a closing (i.e., squeezing) direction of spreader 100 in this example.

[0130] FIG. 8A and 8B together schematically illustrate an operation in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 7 A and 7B.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 8A, nozzle 20 is inserted into casing 1 by allowing the piercing element to pierce casing 1. This is done by engaging nozzle 20 with spreader 100 using gripper 7, and operating the spreader in a closing (i.e., squeezing) direction to cause the piercing element to engage and pierce a first surface of the casing and cause the second arm of the spreader to engage a second surface of the casing. In other words, spreader 100 clamps casing 1 to insert nozzle 20 into casing 1.

[0132] As shown in FIG. 8B, once nozzle 20 has been inserted into casing 1 and the locking unit (e.g., locking elements 25) has locked nozzle 20 inside casing 1 to prevent it from releasing from casing 1, spreader 100 can be released from nozzle 20 by releasing the engagement between gripper 7 and nozzle 20 (e.g., gripping portion 24). Afterwards, spreader 100 can be relocated and used elsewhere. For example, gripper 7 may be replaced again with second tip 102b as shown in FIG. 1A.

[0133] FIG. 9 A and 9B illustrate a side view and corresponding perspective view of spreader 100 engaging nozzle 20 with an engaging member, the latter including gripper 7. For convenience of illustration, part of spreader 100 is omitted from FIG. 9 A and 9B. Moreover, although nozzle 20 is shown in FIG. 7A and 7B, the same could equally be applied to nozzle 10, 30, or 40, or alternative conceivable embodiments thereof.

[0134] This embodiment only differs from that shown in FIG. 7A and 7B and FIG. 8A and 8B in that the piercing element of nozzle faces an opening (i.e., spreading) direction of spreader 100. A detailed description thereof is therefore omitted.

[0135] FIG. 10A and 10B together schematically illustrate an operation of the system in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 9 A and 9B.

[0136] As shown in FIG. 10A, nozzle 20 is inserted into casing 1 by allowing the piercing element to pierce casing 1. This is done by engaging nozzle 20 with spreader 100 using gripper 7, and operating the spreader in an opening (i.e., spreading) direction to cause the piercing element to engage and pierce a first surface of the casing and cause the second arm of the spreader to engage an external surface S. This assumes that casing 1 and external surface S are both sufficiently fixed to be able to at least withstand a force required for the piercing element of nozzle 20 to pierce casing 1. For example, casing 1 may be a casing of a battery mounted inside a vehicle (e.g., an electric vehicle), and external surface S may be the ground or another portion of the vehicle.

[0137] As shown in FIG. 8B, once nozzle 20 has been inserted into casing 1 and the locking unit (e.g., locking elements 25) has locked nozzle 20 inside casing 1 to prevent it from releasing from casing 1, spreader 100 can be released from nozzle 20 by releasing the engagement between gripper 7 and nozzle 20 (e.g., gripping portion 24 of nozzle 20). Afterwards, spreader 100 can be relocated and used elsewhere. For example, gripper 7 may be replaced again with second tip 102b as shown in FIG. 1A.

[0138] FIG. 11 A and 1 IB together schematically illustrate the operation of a system according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the system includes a spreader (e.g., spreader 100 of FIG. 1A) as the portable rescue tool, and further includes a nozzle 50.

[0139] Nozzle 50 may be similar to nozzle 10, 20, 30, or 40, in that it comprises a piercing element as schematically illustrated in FIG. 11 A and 1 IB, and in that it is configured to allow extinguishing fluid from an extinguishing fluid supply, connected to the nozzle, to be provided into an interior of the casing when the nozzle is inserted into the casing. For example, nozzle 50 may include a fluid inlet, a fluid channel, a fluid outlet, and attachment means for coupling hose 2 to the fluid inlet. However, in this embodiment, nozzle 50 does not include at least part of the locking unit as is the case in nozzle 10, 20, 30, and 40.

[0140] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11A and 1 IB, the locking unit comprises a clamp 51 including a first clamp portion 52a and a second clamp portion 52b that are translationally movable with respect to one another, and further comprises a locking element 53 configured to lock a relative position of the first and second clamp portion 52a, 52b. The engaging member in this embodiment is formed by a first protrusion 54a of first clamp portion 52a and a second protrusion 54b of second clamp portion 52b.

[0141] The clamp 51 may be attached to nozzle 50, preferably releasably attached, but may also instead be integrally connected with or fixedly attached to nozzle 50. In the latter case, nozzle 50 can be considered to comprise clamp 51 and may thus comprise both the engaging member and the locking unit in this example.

[0142] To insert nozzle 50 into casing 1, spreader 100 can be operated to engage nozzle 50 by engaging first and second protrusion 54a, 54b and operating spreader 100 in a closing (i.e., squeezing) direction. This causes first and second clamp portion 52a, 52b to move towards each other until the piercing element of nozzle 50 engages a first surface of casing 1 and first clamp portion 52a engages a second, opposing surface of casing 1 , thereby clamping casing 1. Once the clamping force exerted in this manner exceeds the force required for the piercing element of nozzle 50 to pierce casing 1 , nozzle 50 is inserted into casing 1.

[0143] After nozzle 50 is inserted into casing 1, locking element 53 ensures that first and second clamp portion 52a, 52b maintain a fixed relative position so as to maintain the clamping force and prevent nozzle 50 from being released from casing 1. For example, locking element 53 may be a hook or hook-shaped component that engages one of a plurality of protrusions 55 arranged on a portion of second clamp portion 51b along the insertion direction (i.e., upwards in FIG. 11A and 11B), thereby preventing first and second clamp portion 52a, 52b from moving apart from each other.

[0144] As illustrated in FIG. 1 IB, once the locking unit locks nozzle 50 from being released from casing 1, spreader 100 can be released from engaging nozzle 50 by releasing spreader 100 from protrusions 54a, 54b, after which spreader 100 can be moved elsewhere for further use.

[0145] FIG. 12A and 12B together schematically illustrate the operation of a system according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Various components shown in FIG. 12A and 12B may be identical or substantially similar to those shown in FIG. 11 A and 1 IB, and like reference signs are therefore used.

[0146] In this embodiment, rather than being translationally movable, first and second clamp portion 52a, 52b of clamp 51 may be rotationally coupled. Here, rather than a closing (i.e., squeezing) action, spreader 100 is operated in an opening (i.e., spreading) direction to engage nozzle 50 and insert it into casing 1.

[0147] For example, during operation, first and second tip 102a, 102b engage first and second protrusion 54a, 54b, respectively. When an opening (i.e., spreading) action is subsequently performed, first and second clamp portion 52a, 52b rotate relative to each other about a pivot point 56 until nozzle 50 engages a first surface of casing 1 and second clamp portion 52b engages a second, opposing surface of casing 1 , to thereby perform a clamping action.

[0148] Similarly to the embodiment in FIG. 11 A and 1 IB, the locking unit in FIG. 12A and 12B may include a locking element 53 which fixes the relative position of first and second clamp portion 52a, 52b. For example, locking element 53 may be attached to second clamp portion 52b and may be configured to engage one of a plurality of protrusions arranged on first clamp portion 52a which prevents second clamp portion 52b from rotating with respect to first clamp portion 52a in a direction opposite to the clamping direction. Accordingly, locking element 53 may ensure that the clamping action by first and second clamp portion 52a, 52b is maintained during operation, while nozzle 50 remains inserted in casing 1.

[0149] FIG. 13A and 13B illustrate a side view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure during operation. Here, the portable rescue tool is a ram (e.g., ram 200 of FIG. 1 A), and nozzle 30 from FIG. 4A and 4B is used as the nozzle in this example. It is however noted that nozzle 30 could equally be substituted by nozzle 10, nozzle 20, or nozzle 40 or alternative conceivable embodiments thereof. For convenience of illustration, part of ram 200 is omitted in FIG. 13B.

[0150] As shown in FIG. 13A and 13B, the engaging member in this embodiment includes a ram attachment 8 that is attached or configured to be attached to attachment portion 201 of ram 200 and is configured to releasably engage attachment means 33 of nozzle 30. Ram attachment 8 can be released from attachment portion 201 by actuating releasing means 9 (e.g., a button). In addition, or alternatively, ram attachment 8 can be released from nozzle 30 by actuating the same releasing means 9 or a separate releasing means (not shown). The person skilled in the art is familiar with various types of release mechanisms, which may also be referred to as decoupling, unlocking, or disconnecting mechanisms.

[0151] During operation, ram attachment 8 is attached to attachment portion 201 of ram 200, and is used to allow ram 200 to engage nozzle 30, in particular attachment means 33. In this manner, ram 200 engages a side of nozzle 30 directly opposite to piercing element 31. By performing a ramming action, nozzle 30 can be inserted into casing 1 by allowing piercing element 31 to pierce casing 1. Once nozzle 30 is inserted into casing 1 and the locking unit (e.g., locking element 34) prevents nozzle 30 from being released from casing 1, ram attachment 8 can be released from attachment means 33 and / or attachment portion 201 to thereby release ram 200 from nozzle 30, allowing ram 200 to be used elsewhere.

[0152] In each of FIG. 7A and 7B, FIG. 8A and 8B, FIG. 9A and 9B, FIG. 10A and 10B, FIG. 11A and IB, FIG. 12A and 12B, and FIG. 13A and 13B, the nozzle is shown to be already coupled to hose 2 prior to insertion of the nozzle into the casing. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and hose 2 may instead be coupled to the nozzle after insertion into casing 1 rather than before or during insertion.

[0153] FIG. 14A - 14C illustrate, in a simplified manner, a locking unit preventing nozzle 50 from being released from casing 1 during operation, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. Although reference is made to nozzle 50, the description below may equally apply to any of nozzles 10, 20, 30, and 40, or any alternative conceivable embodiments.

[0154] In FIG. 14A, nozzle 50 is inserted into casing 1 using a spreader, of which only detachable tips 102a, 102b are shown. After insertion of nozzle 50, first and second tip 102a, 102b are detached from the spreader and are mutually coupled and mutually fixed in position, in this example by a coupling plate 6a, to maintain a clamping of casing 1 by first and second tip 102a, 102b. The locking unit is thus formed at least partially by coupling element 6.

[0155] In FIG. 14B, further to the embodiment shown in FIG. 14A, a spindle 6b is additionally provided between first and second tip 102a, 102b. Spindle 6b may be threaded and inserted through a threaded opening in each of first and second tip 102a, 102b to allow spindle 6b to mechanically couple first and second tip 102a, 102b. Spindle 6b may thus form at least part of the locking unit.

[0156] In FIG. 14C, a spring-urged clamp 6c, forming at least part of the locking unit, is attached to first tip 102a and is arranged such that nozzle 50 engages one surface of casing 1 and an end portion of clamp 6c engages another surface of casing 1 , the spring force of the spring-urged clamp 6c resulting in a clamping force being exerted on casing 1. In this embodiment, first tip 102a forms the engaging member and engages nozzle 50.

[0157] Nozzle 50 is then inserted into casing 1 by performing a closing (i.e., squeezing) action with the spreader, causing the second tip (not shown) to press against the end portion of clamp 6c and causing the piercing element of nozzle 50 to pierce casing 1. After inserting nozzle 50 into casing 1 , the spring force of spring-urged clamp 6c maintains a clamping force on casing 1 , preventing nozzle 50 from being released from casing 1 or at least requiring substantial force to do so. First tip 102a can then be detached from the spreader to allow the spreader to be used elsewhere, while spring-urged clamp 6c ensures that nozzle 50 remains inserted into casing 1.

[0158] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating the system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. This system comprises a nozzle with a piercing element, a portable rescue tool, an engaging member, and a locking unit, various embodiments of which have been described in detail above.

[0159] In operation S10, the nozzle is engaged with the portable rescue tool via the engaging member. The nozzle may be any of nozzle 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 described above, or alternative conceivable embodiments such as various combinations thereof. The portable rescue tool may for example be a spreader (e.g., spreader 100 of FIG. 1 A) or a ram (e.g., ram 200 of FIG. IB). The engaging member may for example include one of first and second extension tip 3a, 3b of FIG. 6A and 6B, gripper 7 of FIG. 7A and 7B, FIG. 8A and 8B, FIG. 9A and 9B, or FIG. 10A and 10B, protrusions 54a, 54b of FIG. 11A and 11B or FIG. 12A and 12B, ram attachment 8 of FIG. 13A and 13B, or first tip 102a of any of FIG. 14A-14C.

[0160] In operation S20, the nozzle is inserted into the casing using the portable rescue tool, by piercing the casing with the piercing element of the nozzle. For example, the portable rescue tool may be a spreader and the spreader may be operated in the opening (i.e., spreading) direction while engaging the nozzle to insert the nozzle into the casing, as for example described with reference to FIG. 9 A and 9B, FIG. 10A and 10B, and / or FIG. 12A and 12B. In another example, the portable rescue tool may be a spreader and the spreader may be operated in the closing (i.e., squeezing) direction while engaging the nozzle to insert the nozzle into the casing, as for example described with reference to FIG. 6A and 6B, FIG. 7A and 7B, FIG. 8A and 8B, FIG. 11 A and 1 IB, and / or any of FIG. 14A - 14C. In yet another example, the portable rescue tool may be a ram and the ram may engage the nozzle and insert it into the casing, as for example described with reference to FIG. 13 A and 13B. Further examples with the same or alternative portable rescue tools and / or the same or different engaging members are readily conceivable by those skilled in the art, and the present disclosure is not limited to any of the particular examples provided in the present disclosure.

[0161] In operation S30, the nozzle is locked with the locking unit to prevent the nozzle from being released from the casing. The locking unit may for example include one or more of locking elements 17 of FIG. 2A - 2C, locking elements 25 of FIG. 3, locking element 34 of FIG. 4A and 4B, threaded outer surface 44 of FIG. 5 A and 5B, connection element 6 of FIG. 6A and 6B, clamp 51 of FIG. 10A and 10B or FIG. 11A and 11B, connection plate 6a of FIG. 14A and 14B, spindle 6b of FIG. 14B, and spring-urged clamp 6c of FIG. 14C.

[0162] In operation S40, the portable rescue tool is released from the engaging member to release the portable rescue tool from the nozzle. The portable rescue tool can then be moved elsewhere for further use, for example in rescue and / or safety applications.

[0163] In operation S50, fluid, such as water, is optionally provided into an inside of the casing through the nozzle after inserting the nozzle into the casing. Of course, depending on whether a fire, thermal runaway, or the like is detected to be occurring or at risk of occurring inside the casing, this step may not be needed, and nozzle may be inserted purely as a precautionary measure should extinguishing be required.

[0164] For the purpose of performing operation S50, an extinguishing fluid supply may be coupled to the nozzle before or after inserting the nozzle into the casing. For example, the coupling of an extinguishing fluid supply may be performed only when deemed needed, at a location where such a supply is available. The extinguishing fluid supply may for example be integrated into a fire truck or may be a locally available fluid supply, such as a fire hydrant or the like.

[0165] In operation S60, the casing is optionally transported to a different location after inserting the nozzle into the casing, which may be beneficial or even preferred for safety purposes. The casing may be transported to a controlled environment where a potential fire does not pose any risk to civilians, and / or a location where an extinguishing fluid supply is available.

[0166] For example, the casing may be a battery mounted inside a vehicle (e.g., an electric vehicle), and may be in an inconvenient location such as in the middle of a road (i.e., obstructing traffic) or near flammable material. In that case, it is desirable to transport the casing, along with the vehicle, to a safer location where it can be kept until the risk of fire is substantially negated. If needed, operation S50 may also be performed for the first time, or repeated a second or further time, after performing operation S60. For example, if a fire occurs or is at risk of occurring (e.g., due to thermal runaway) after the casing has been transported to a different location, the nozzle that is still inserted into the casing can be used, or reused, to perform operation S50 one or more (possibly further) times. Since the nozzle remains inserted into the casing even after transport, operations S10 - S40 do not need to be repeated in the method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. After the risk of a fire breaking out has substantially reduced, the nozzle can be removed from the casing.

[0167] In the above description, the present disclosure has been explained using detailed embodiments thereof. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these specific embodiments, and various modifications can be implemented without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and, in some jurisdictions, their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system for extinguishing a thermal event occurring inside a casing, comprising: a nozzle including a piercing element for piercing the casing; a portable rescue tool having an actuable tool component; an engaging member that is releasably engageable by the actuable tool component to allow the portable rescue tool to insert the nozzle into the casing by piercing the casing with the piercing element, and to allow the portable rescue tool to subsequently release from the engaging member; and a locking unit configured to prevent the nozzle from being released from the casing after having been inserted into the casing during operation.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the engaging member is configured to be releasably attached to the actuable tool component, wherein the engaging member, when attached to the actuable tool component, allows the portable rescue tool to engage the nozzle.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the portable rescue tool is a spreader having a first arm and a second arm, wherein the engaging member is configured to be releasably attached to the first arm.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the portable rescue tool is configured to insert the nozzle into the casing by: engaging the nozzle using the engaging member; and operating the spreader in a closing direction to cause the piercing element to engage and pierce a first surface of the casing and cause the second arm of the spreader to engage a second surface of the casing.

5. The system according to claim 3, wherein the portable rescue tool is configured to insert the nozzle into the casing by: engaging the nozzle using the engaging member; and operating the spreader in an opening direction to cause the piercing element to engage and pierce a first surface of the casing and cause the second arm of the spreader to engage an external surface opposite the first surface, such as the ground.

6. The system according to claim 2, wherein the portable rescue tool is a spreader or a clamp, wherein the engaging member includes a first and second tip that are attachable to a first and second arm of the spreader or clamp, respectively, the first tip being configured to engage the nozzle, wherein, during operation, the portable rescue tool is configured to insert the nozzle into the casing by allowing the first and second tip to clamp the casing, wherein the first and second tip are preferably extension tips forming an extension of the first and second arm of the spreader or clamp.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the first tip is configured to be releasably attachable to the nozzle, and wherein, after inserting the nozzle into the casing, the portable rescue tool is configured to be released from the nozzle by: releasing the first tip from the portable rescue tool; or releasing the first tip from the nozzle.

8. The system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the locking unit comprises a connection element, such as a plate or a spindle, configured to be coupled between the first and second tip to mutually fixate the first and second tip while the first and second tip together clamp the casing, wherein the portable rescue tool is configured to be released from the nozzle by releasing the first and second tip from the portable rescue tool.

9. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the nozzle comprises a gripping portion adapted to be gripped by the engaging member to allow the portable rescue tool to engage the nozzle using the engaging member.

10. The system according to claim 2, wherein the portable rescue tool is a ram, such as a telescopic ram.

11. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the engaging member is attached, preferably releasably attached, to the nozzle.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the engaging member comprises a clamp having a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion, the clamp being configured to perform a clamping action when the engaging member is engaged by the portable rescue tool,wherein, during operation, the first clamp portion and the second clamp portion are configured to be arranged facing a first surface of the casing and a second surface of the casing, respectively, wherein the piercing element is arranged or configured to be arranged at the first clamp portion, wherein the first clamp portion and the second clamp portion are movable relative to one another in a rotating or translating manner.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the portable rescue tool is a spreader, and wherein the portable rescue tool is configured to insert the nozzle into the casing by engaging the engaging member with the spreader being operated in a closing or opening direction to cause the piercing element to engage and pierce the first surface of the casing and cause the second clamp portion to engage the second surface of the casing.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the engaging member further comprises at least one protruding portion that protrudes from the first clamp portion and / or second clamp portion, by which the portable rescue tool is configured engage the engaging member.

15. The system according to any of the claims 12-14, wherein the locking unit is configured to, when the nozzle is inserted into the casing during operation, maintain a position of the first clamp portion relative to the second clamp portion to maintain the clamping action.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the clamp comprises: a plurality of protrusions arranged along a clamping direction; and at least one first locking element, such as a hook, forming at least part of the locking unit, the at least one first locking element being configured to, when the portable rescue tool is released from the engaging member, engage at least one of the plurality of protrusions to allow the clamp to maintain the clamping action, wherein the at least one first locking element is preferably spring-urged so as to urge the at least one first locking element to move into a position to engage the at least one of the plurality of protrusions.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions is positively inclined in the clamping direction.

18. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the nozzle comprises at least one second locking element arranged at or near the piercing element, the at least one second locking element forming at least part of the locking unit.

19. The system according to claim 18, wherein the at least one second locking element is configured to: move from a protruding position into a retracted position inside the nozzle by the insertion of the nozzle into the casing, or be operated to move from the protruding position into the retracted position before insertion of the nozzle into the casing; and move or be operated to move from the retracted position to the protruding position inside the casing after the nozzle has been inserted into the casing beyond a position of the at least one second locking element, thereby preventing the nozzle from releasing from the casing, wherein the at least one second locking element is preferably spring-urged so as to urge the at least one second locking element to move into the protruding position.

20. The system according to any of the claims 15-19, wherein the locking unit further comprises a releasing member configured to be operable to allow the nozzle to be released from the casing.

21. The system according to claims 19 and 20, wherein the releasing member includes a rotatable pin exposed at an end portion of the nozzle and configured to allow an operator to engage the at least one second locking element to cause the at least one second locking element to move from the protruding position to the retracted position.

22. The system according to any of the claims 19-21, the nozzle further comprising a spring surrounding a housing of the nozzle and configured to, when the nozzle is inserted into the casing beyond a predetermined depth and further than the position of the at least one second locking element, apply a spring force to urge the nozzle in an outward direction from the casing and press the at least one second locking element against an inner surface of the casing.

23. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the nozzle includes a threaded outer surface configured to engage the casing, the threaded outer surface forming at least part of the locking unit.

24. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein, during operation, the nozzle is configured to allow extinguishing fluid from an extinguishing fluid supply, connected to the nozzle, to be provided into an interior of the casing when the nozzle is inserted into the casing.

25. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the nozzle comprises: a fluid inlet configured to be coupled to the extinguishing fluid supply; a fluid outlet at or near the piercing element; and a fluid channel between the fluid inlet and fluid outlet extending inside the nozzle.

26. The system according to claim 25, wherein the fluid outlet comprises a plurality of openings in fluid connection with the fluid channel, wherein the plurality of openings is provided in respective recessed portions of the nozzle.

27. The system according to claim 25 or 26, the system further comprising the extinguishing fluid supply.

28. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the piercing element is configured for piercing through a sheet metal of the casing.

29. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the thermal event is a fire or a thermal runaway.

30. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the portable rescue tool is a hydraulic tool.

31. A method for operating the system according to any of the previous claims, comprising: engaging the nozzle with the portable rescue tool via the engaging member; inserting the nozzle into the casing with the portable rescue tool by piercing the casing with the piercing element; locking the nozzle with the locking unit to prevent the nozzle from being released from the casing; and releasing the portable rescue tool from the engaging member to release the portable rescue tool from the nozzle.

32. The method according to claim 31, further comprising:coupling an extinguishing fluid supply to the nozzle before or after inserting the nozzle into the casing; and providing fluid, such as water, into an inside of the casing through the nozzle after having been inserted into the casing.

33. The method according to claim 31 or 32, further comprising: transporting the casing, or a device such as a vehicle which encompasses the casing, to a different location and holding the casing at said different location with the nozzle remaining inserted into the casing.

34. A nozzle, preferably configured to be used in the system as defined in any of the claims 1-30, the nozzle being configured to be inserted into a casing by a portable rescue tool and comprising: a piercing element configured to pierce the casing as part of insertion of the nozzle into the casing; and a locking unit configured to prevent the nozzle from being released from the casing after having been inserted into the casing during operation.

35. The nozzle according to claim 34, wherein the nozzle comprises at least one locking element, such as a hook, arranged at or near the piercing element, the at least one locking element forming at least part of the locking unit.

36. The nozzle according to claim 35, wherein the at least one locking element is configured to, during operation: move from a protruding position into a retracted position inside the nozzle by the insertion of the nozzle into the casing, or be operated to move from the protruding position into the retracted position before insertion of the nozzle into the casing; and move, or be operated to move, from the retracted position to the protruding position inside the casing after the nozzle has been inserted into the casing beyond a position of the at least one locking element, thereby preventing the nozzle from releasing from the casing, wherein the at least one locking element is preferably spring-urged so as to urge the at least one locking element to move into the protruding position.

37. The system according to any of the claims 34-36, wherein the locking unit further comprises a releasing member configured to be operable to allow the nozzle to be released from the casing.

38. The system according to claims 36 and 37, wherein the releasing member includes a movable pin, such as a rotatable pin, that is exposed at an end portion of the nozzle and is configured to engage the at least one locking element to cause the at least one locking element to move from the protruding position to the retracted position.

39. The nozzle according to any of the claims 34-38, further comprising an engaging member comprising a clamp having a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion, the clamp being configured to perform a clamping action when the engaging member is engaged by the portable rescue tool, wherein, during operation, the first clamp portion and the second clamp portion are configured to be arranged facing a first surface of the casing and a second surface of the casing, respectively, wherein the piercing element is arranged or configured to be arranged at the first clamp portion, wherein the first clamp portion and the second clamp portion are movable relative to one another in a rotating or translating manner.

40. The nozzle according to claim 39, wherein the locking unit is configured to, when the nozzle is inserted into the casing during operation, maintain a position of the first clamp portion relative to the second clamp portion to maintain a clamping action.

41. The nozzle according to claim 40, wherein the clamp comprises: a plurality of protrusions arranged along a clamping direction; and at least one further locking element, such as a hook, forming at least part of the locking unit, wherein the at least one further locking element is configured to, when the portable rescue tool is released from the engaging member, engage at least one of the plurality of protrusions to allow the clamp to maintain the clamping action, wherein the at least one further locking element is preferably spring-urged so as to urge the at least one further locking element to move into a position to engage the at least one of the plurality of protrusions.

42. The nozzle according to claim 41, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions is positively inclined in the clamping direction.

43. The nozzle according to any of the claims 34-42, wherein the nozzle includes a threaded outer surface configured to engage the casing to form at least part of the locking unit.

44. The nozzle according to any of the claims 34-43, wherein, during operation, the nozzle is configured to allow extinguishing fluid from an extinguishing fluid supply, connected to the nozzle, to be provided into an interior of the casing when the nozzle is inserted into the casing.

45. The nozzle according to any of the claims 34-44, wherein the nozzle comprises: a fluid inlet configured to be coupled to a fluid source; a fluid outlet at or near the piercing element; and a fluid channel between the fluid inlet and fluid outlet extending inside the nozzle.

46. The nozzle according to claim 45, wherein the fluid outlet comprises a plurality of openings in fluid connection with the fluid channel, wherein the plurality of openings is provided in respective recessed portions of the nozzle.

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