An active battery monitoring system

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a battery monitoring system (300) for a battery pack (500). The battery pack (500) comprises at least one quantum dot (202, 202a, 202b,202c), communicatively coupled to at least one optical fiber (112) and configured to emit photons upon interacting with gas molecules released by a cell (100) of battery pack (500). The battery pack (500) also comprises a vapor cell (304) configured to get excited by the photons. Further, the battery pack (500) comprises a photon detector (302) configured to measure the intensity and wavelength of the photons emitted by the vapor cell (304). Finally, a control module (312) of the battery pack (500) determines operational status of the battery pack (500) based on the intensity and wavelength. The operational status is used to predict thermal runaway conditions and assess life expectancy of the battery pack (500), facilitating early detection of potential failures in the battery.

Description

[0001] Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO

[0002] “AN ACTIVE BATTERY MONITORING SYSTEM”

[0003] Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO

[0004] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of battery monitoring and management systems. More specifically, the present disclosure pertains to systems and methods for detecting and identifying faulty battery cells using advanced sensor technologies, including quantum dot-based detection and optical fiber communication.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007]

[0002] Modem battery management system (BMS) aims to make batteries more efficient and have a longer life. Batteries are used in a wide variety of applications. Large capacity batteries are often required for devices such as electricity-driven vehicles or smart grid systems. Batteries are generally configured as battery packs, which comprises an assembly of battery cells, electrically organized in a row and column matrix configuration to enable delivery of targeted voltage and current for a duration of time against expected load scenarios. In unusual circumstances, battery cells experience decomposition and produce a lot of gaseous molecules. The pressure of gases in the battery can rise quickly, causing the battery to explode and release a lot of toxic, flammable, and high-temperature gas, seriously endangering the battery's ability to be used safely. Also, it can adversely affect the overall performance of the battery and finally cause the battery to catch fire or even explode, causing a serious threat to safety of users and surrounding property. In some scenarios, the battery may also release low-intensity gas emissions even during normal operating conditions of the battery, which signals the beginning of degradation process of the battery.

[0008]

[0003] Moreover, since the battery consists of multiple cells, identifying which specific cell is faulty and determining when to replace the faulty cell can be challenging. Conventional techniques using sensor-based analysis for early gas detection are often unreliable and inefficient, requiring the integration of expensive sensors into large compartments and necessitating high gas concentrations for detection. Furthermore, conventional sensors face difficulties in detecting multiple gases simultaneously. Existing safety devices, such as Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) and Current Interruption Devices (CID), are often inefficient in large battery packs, since they occupy a substantial space within the cell, and incur high manufacturing costs. Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO

[0009]

[0004] Various other technologies have been proposed for monitoring the battery based on current or voltage measurements. For instance, CN114813601 B discloses an optical fiber detection system for in-situ detection of inflammable gases in lithium- ion batteries. US10777855B2 describes embedded fiber optic cables for battery management, while US7960047B2 describes an electrochemical cell with an electronic apparatus for controlling and monitoring cell operation. Additionally, CN117783048A presents an in-situ gas detection method and system for energy storage batteries.

[0010]

[0005] However, none of the existing techniques provide an effective solution for monitoring concentrations of harmful gases, such as Hydrogen and Carbon monoxide etc., emitted during normal battery operation conditions with low intensity and abnormal battery operation conditions with high intensity. Therefore, it is desirable to have techniques for accurate and timely detection of potential battery failures, to enhance safety and reliability of the batteries.

[0011]

[0006] The information disclosed in this background of the disclosure section is only for the enhancement of understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0013]

[0007] One or more shortcomings of conventional systems are overcome, and additional advantages are provided through the system as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

[0014]

[0008] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery monitoring system for a battery pack is disclosed. The battery monitoring system comprises a battery pack comprising at least one quantum dot, communicatively coupled to at least one optical fiber. The at least one quantum dot is configured to emit one or more photons upon interacting with one or more gas molecules released by at least one cell of the battery pack. Further, the battery pack comprises a vapor cell, connected to the battery pack via the at least one optical fiber, wherein the vapor cell is configured to Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO get excited by the one or more photons. Furthermore, the battery pack comprises a photon detector in communication with the vapor cell. The photon detector is configured to measure at least an intensity and wavelength of the one or more the photons emitted by the vapor cell. Additionally, the battery pack comprises a control module in communication with the photon detector and configured to determine an operational status of the battery pack based on at least one of the intensity and the wavelength.

[0015]

[0009] In a non-limiting embodiment, the present disclosure discloses that the at least one optical fiber is configured to carry the one or more photons emitted at the least one quantum dot. The one or more gas molecules comprises at least one of Hydrogen (H2), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), and Carbon Monoxide (CO), and other volatile organic compounds released from different components of the battery pack.

[0016]

[0010] In a non-limiting embodiment, the present disclosure discloses that the wavelength of the one or more photons emitted by the at least one quantum dot is unique to the one or more gas molecules interacting with the at least one quantum dot.

[0017]

[0011] In a non-limiting embodiment, the present disclosure discloses that the at least one quantum dot is fitted into a current collector of each cell of the battery pack.

[0018]

[0012] In a non-limiting embodiment, the present disclosure discloses that each cell of the battery pack further comprises a fuse element connected between the current collector and a terminal of corresponding cell.

[0019]

[0013] In a non-limiting embodiment, the present disclosure discloses that the battery monitoring system further comprises a cell identification quantum dot, corresponding to each cell of the battery pack, and placed in a path of an optical fiber associated with corresponding cell. The cell identification quantum dot is configured to emit photons of unique wavelength for identification of the corresponding cell.

[0020]

[0014] In a non-limiting embodiment, the present disclosure discloses that the battery pack comprises an optical film which encapsulates the at least one quantum dot, and wherein the optical film is positioned in proximity to a battery pack cover and communicatively coupled to the at least one optical fiber. Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO

[0021]

[0015] In a non-limiting embodiment, the present disclosure discloses that the optical film with the at least one quantum dot is positioned below the battery pack cover, and the battery monitoring system further comprises at least a coating layer, a polymer and a copper mesh arranged in layers below the optical film.

[0022]

[0016] In a non-limiting embodiment, the present disclosure discloses that the battery monitoring system further comprises at least one module encoding quantum dot, corresponding to each cell of the battery pack. The at least one module encoding quantum dot is configured to emit photons of unique wavelength for identifying corresponding cell of the battery pack.

[0023]

[0017] In a non-limiting embodiment, the battery monitoring system is designed and deployed for the battery pack of a vehicle.

[0024]

[0018] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

[0025] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0026]

[0019] The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[0027]

[0020] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a battery cell, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028]

[0021] FIG. 1 B illustrates a unique cut-off mechanism of the battery cell as shown in FIG. 1 A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029]

[0022] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D illustrates a design of a current collector of a battery cell, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO

[0030]

[0023] FIG. 3A illustrates a battery monitoring system, operating in conjunction with a laser, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031]

[0024] FIG. 3B illustrates the battery monitoring system, without the use of laser, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032]

[0025] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart for predicting and identifying faulty battery cells using the battery monitoring system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033]

[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a battery pack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034]

[0027] FIG 6 illustrates a perspective view of quantum dots within the battery pack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035]

[0028] FIG. 7 illustrates an internal arrangement of the battery monitoring system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036]

[0029] FIG. 8 illustrates flow chart of a method for predicting and identifying faulty battery cells using the battery monitoring system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037]

[0030] The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the assembly illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

[0038] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039]

[0031] While the embodiments in the disclosure are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the figures and will be described below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.

[0040]

[0032] It is noted that a person skilled in the art may be inspired by the present disclosure to modify various features of the battery monitoring system for predicting Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO and detecting thermal runaway conditions and battery life expectancy of battery packs and each battery cell comprised in the battery packs, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Such modifications are considered part of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings illustrate only the specific details necessary to understand the embodiments of the present disclosure, avoiding unnecessary complexity that would be readily apparent to those skilled in the art with the benefit of this description.

[0041]

[0033] The terms “comprises... a”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof used in the disclosure, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions such that a system comprises a list of components that does not include only those components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such mechanism. In other words, one or more elements in mechanism proceeded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system.

[0042]

[0034] Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a system for monitoring and predicting the thermal runaway condition and battery life expectancy of battery cells and battery packs. The system of the present disclosure facilitates accurate detection of abnormal gas emissions and thermal conditions within individual battery cells and modules, enabling timely intervention to prevent potential failures. The system may allow continuous monitoring through the integration of quantum dots, optical fibers, rubidium vapor cells, and photon detectors. The system may disclose a configuration where quantum dots, embedded within the current collectors of the battery cells and integrated into battery pack covers, emit photons upon interacting with gas molecules produced during normal and abnormal conditions of the battery operation. The photons are transmitted through an optical fiber network and analyzed by a control module (for example, a Battery Management System (BMS)) to assess the condition of the battery pack and one or more battery cells within the battery pack, which are part of the battery of the vehicle.

[0043]

[0035] The system may be configured in a manner that allows automated operation for continuous monitoring of battery cells and modules. The system may comprise multiple sensors and detectors to facilitate the detection of abnormal gas emissions and thermal conditions within the battery cells and modules. These components may work in conjunction with the quantum dots, optical fibers, rubidium vapor cells, and photon detectors, transitioning between different operational states for monitoring Internal Ref: 2024P02069WG purposes. Various components of the system may receive power from an in-built battery or external power sources as required.

[0044]

[0036] The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIG. 1A to FIG. 8. In the figures, the same elements that have similar functions are indicated by the same reference signs. With general reference to the drawings, the system for monitoring and predicting the thermal runaway condition and battery life expectancy of battery cells and battery packs is in accordance with the teachings of preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and is illustrated and generally identified with reference numeral in the corresponding figures. Other features and elements of the system are depicted by respective reference numerals [see list of reference numerals] in the corresponding figures and the same will be used corresponding to respective features henceforth. It will be understood that the teachings of the present disclosure are not limited to any particular battery. Also, the corresponding figures do not illustrate the entire battery for simplicity. Accordingly, the drawings are showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

[0045]

[0037] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit application and uses. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or summary or the following detailed description. It is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also understood that the specific devices or components illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions or other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments that may be disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described referring to the accompanying drawings. While some specific terms directed to a specific direction will be used, the purpose of usage of these terms or words is merely to facilitate understanding of the present invention referring to the drawings. Accordingly, it should be noted that the meaning of these terms or words should not improperly limit the technical scope of the present invention. Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO

[0046]

[0038] Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for description and should not be regarded as limiting. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “accommodated,” “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” “fitted’ and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “secured” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, methods, applications, conditions, or parameters described and / or shown herein and that the terminology used herein is to describe particular embodiments by way of example and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Hereinafter in the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are outlined to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described.

[0047]

[0039] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of at least one cell 100 (also referred to as battery cell 100) of a battery pack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The cell 100 may include, but is not limited to, a positive terminal 102, a first gasket 104, a fuse element 106, a second gasket 108, a current collector 110, and an optical fiber 112.

[0048]

[0040] The first gasket 104 and the second gasket 108 may provide a sealing to the cell 100 in order to prevent any leakage of electrolyte or gases from the cell 100, thereby ensuring the integrity of the cell 100. The current collector 110 serves as a conductive pathway for the flow of current within the cell 100. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the current collector 110 may be embedded with at least one quantum dot (for example, the quantum dot 202 as illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2D). The current collector (110) may include a slit to embed the at least one quantum dot 202.

[0049]

[0041] The fuse 106 may be positioned at the positive terminal 102 of the cell 100. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fuse 106 may be configured to disconnect the current flow in response to detection of overheating in the cell 100, thereby preventing a thermal runaway condition and enhancing the safety of the cell 100. Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO

[0050]

[0042] FIG. 1 B illustrates a unique cut-off mechanism of the cell 100 depicted in FIG.

[0051] 1 A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 B is explained in conjunction with FIG. 1A. The battery cell 100 also includes a tab 114. For the sake of brevity, similar components depicted in FIG. 1A are not described in detail in FIG. 1 B. Referring to FIG 1A and FIG. 1 B, the fuse 106 may include two sides such as a current collector side and a positive tab side. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the positive tab side may utilize any conducting material with melting characteristics within a prescribed temperature range to disconnect the positive tab side during overheating. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the fuse 106 may be a carbon nanotube (CNT). By way of example with no limitation, the CNT may create a conductive path on a substrate due to their tube-like nature. When exposed to high temperatures, the CNT structure melts, causing the ring lug (as depicted in FIG. 1 B) to open, thus interrupting the conductive path. In general, the CNTs are an effective option for nanostructures in battery protection mechanisms. Not limiting to the above, the fuse 106 may be made of any other material than CNT.

[0052]

[0043] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D illustrate a unique design of the current collector 110 of the battery cell 100, as shown in FIG. 1 A and FIG. 1 B, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described in earlier embodiments, the current collector 110 may embed the at least one quantum dot 202a, 202b, and 202c (collectively referred to as 202), and each of the at least one quantum dot 202 may be strategically arranged within the current collector 110. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one quantum dot 202 may be designed to detect presence of one or more gas molecules, such as Hydrogen (H2), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), and Carbon Monoxide (CO), released during an abnormal battery operating condition of the cell 100. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one quantum dot 202 may include distinct layers sensitive to the one or more gas molecules. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one quantum dot 202 may include a layer of CO2sensitive quantum dots, a layer of CO sensitive quantum dots, and a layer of H2sensitive quantum dots. Each of the at least one quantum dot 202 may be capable of emitting photons at unique wavelengths when interacting with the corresponding one or more gas molecules, which may be indicative of a potential failure of the cell 100.

[0053]

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1A and FIG. 2B to FIG. 2D, the optical fiber 112 may be coupled with the at least one quantum dot 202. In an embodiment of the present Internal Ref: 2024P02069WG disclosure, the optical fiber 112 may be configured to transmit the photons emitted by the at least one quantum dot 202 when the at least one quantum dot 202 collides with one or more gas molecules. The at least one quantum dot 202 may function as an artificial atom designed to absorb and release energy in the form of photons.

[0054]

[0045] During an abnormal battery operation condition, such as overheating, the one or more gas molecules may be released from the battery cell 100. The one or more gas molecules react with the at least one quantum dot 202. As a result, the energy levels of electrons inside the at least one quantum dot 202 may be affected, causing each of the at least one quantum dot 202 to emit photons with unique wavelengths. In an exemplary embodiment, the emitted photons are transmitted through the optical fiber 112 to a photon detector (shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B), enabling identification and prediction of the battery’s thermal condition and life expectancy based on composition and concentration of the one or more gas molecules.

[0055]

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one quantum dot 202 may include silicon (Si) quantum dots 202a. The Si quantum dots 202a may include a shell, surface ligands, and a Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) or a Polyethylene Glycol (PEG). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the shell is an optional multilayer component designed to form Type II or quasi-Type II quantum dots. The surface ligands, which may include metal oxides such as Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) or Zinc Oxide (ZnO), are employed as inorganic ligands for the SiOx quantum dots. These ligands further enhance thermal stability and prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI). Additionally, the surface ligands with high energy transfer efficiency may help increase the chemiluminescent (CL) yield and may also be used to couple the quantum dots 202 to further enhance the CL effect.

[0056]

[0047] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the Si quantum dots 202a may be encapsulated with materials such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polyethylene glycol (PEG) to enhance electron transfer, especially for hydrogen (H2) detection. For instance, PMMA coated with palladium may selectively attract H2, thereby increasing quantum capacitance and improving the performance of the Si quantum dots 202a in detecting the H2 gas molecules. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, size of the Si quantum dots 202a may range from 2nm to 5nm. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a spacing between each of the quantum dots 202 may be 0.30nm. Internal Ref: 2024P02069WG

[0057]

[0048] FIG. 3A illustrates operation of the battery monitoring system 300 with a laser 306 and FIG. 3B illustrates the operation of the battery monitoring system 300 without the laser 306. FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are explained in conjunction with each other. Additionally, FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are explained in conjunction with FIG. 1A - FIG. 2D. Referring to FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, the battery monitoring system 300 may include at least one battery pack (for example, the battery pack 500 shown in FIG. 5), which encapsulates the at least one battery cell 100 (e.g., the cell 100, depicted in FIG. 1A). The at least one cell 100 within each of the battery pack may be connected to a network of optical fiber 112, which includes one or more optical fibers 112. As shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, the battery monitoring system 300 may include, without limiting to, the optical fibers 112, the at least one quantum dot 202, a photon detector 302, a plurality of vapor cells 304, the laser 306, a cell identification quantum dot 308, a comparator 310, and a control module 312.

[0058]

[0049] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical fiber 112 may be configured to transfer the photons emitted from the at least one quantum dot 202 to the vapor cell 304 when the one or more gas molecules are interacted with the at least one quantum dot 202. In an embodiment, the vapor cell 304 may include, without limiting to, a rubidium vapor cell. Referring to FIG. 3A, upon reception of the emitted photons at the vapor cell 304, the photon detector 302 may incident a first laser pulse to the vapor cell 304 using the laser 306. As a result, the vapor cell 304 may be excited to higher energy level, which may be measured by the photon detector 302. Further, the photon detector 302 may incident a second laser pulse, after detecting a change in the energy levels vapor cell 304, and measure the intensity, phase and wavelength of the emitted photons.

[0059]

[0050] Referring to FIG. 3B, the at least one quantum dot 202 may incident a wavelength (for example, in the near infrared spectrum (NIR)) to the vapor cell 304. As a result, the vapor cell 304 may get excited to a higher energy level. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the phase and the intensity of the incident wavelength may change as per concentration of the one or more gas molecules. After excitation, one or more atoms (for example, rubidium atoms in case of a rubidium vapor cell) within the vapor cell 304 may reach a ground state by emitting photons. Subsequently, the intensity of the emitted photons may be measured by the photon detector 302. Internal Ref: 2024P02069WQ

[0060]

[0051] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the photon energy may be calculated based on the measured intensity. Further, the photon energy may be transmitted through a cell identification quantum dot 308, connected to each of the at least one quantum dot 202, though the optical fiber 112. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, each quantum dot 202 placed in the path of the cell identification quantum dot 308 may excite and emit photon. The emitted photon energy is measured by the photon detector 302. Each quantum dot 202 associated or connected with the cell identification quantum dot 308 may emit photons at a unique wavelength, which information is used by the cell identification quantum dot 308 for cell identification.

[0061]

[0052] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the information relating to the photon energy may be transmitted to the control module 312. Based on the information, the control module 312 may determine an operational status of each cell 100 in the battery pack. As an example, the operational status of the cells 100 may be one of ‘faulty’ and ‘non-faulty’ or ‘good’. In an embodiment, if one or more cells 100 are identified as ‘faulty’, it may indicate that the cell 100 may undergo thermal runaway condition. Once a faulty battery cell is identified, the control module 312 may isolate the faulty battery cell for repair or replacement during thermal runaway condition. During thermal runaway condition, the control module 312 may perform a cut-off fuse mechanism, wherein the fuse 106 cuts-off any electric connection to the faulty battery cell. In other words, the control module 312 may monitor each battery cell 100 for abnormalities, such as thermal runaway or other operational issues. Thus, the battery monitoring system 300 may offer redundancy and backup monitoring, ensuring effective identification of faulty battery cell, particularly during abnormal battery behavior or thermal runaway conditions.

[0062]

[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart 400 for predicting and identifying faulty battery cells using the battery monitoring system 300, for example the battery monitoring system 300 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is explained in conjunction with FIGS. 1 A to 3B. The flowchart 400 begins at step 402, where the battery monitoring system 300 is initialized to continuously monitor for the presence of one or more gas molecules within each battery cell 100 of the battery pack. The battery monitoring system 300 relies on Quantum Dot (QD) technology embedded in the battery cells 100 to detect gas emissions, which may indicate battery degradation or potential failure. Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO

[0063]

[0054] The battery monitoring system 300 checks whether any gas molecules have been released within and / or around the battery cells 100. If no gas molecules are detected, at step 404, the battery monitoring system 300 determines that the energy state of the at least one quantum dot 202 remains stable, as the at least one quantum dot 202 is designed to react only to environmental changes, such as the presence of one or more gas molecules. In other words, in the absence of the one or more gas molecules, the energy levels of the at least one quantum dots 202 remain unaffected.

[0064]

[0055] At step 406, the battery monitoring system 300 determines that a battery cell 100 is in a healthy state, as no significant changes have occurred in the energy levels of the at least one quantum dot 202, and no gas emissions have been detected. This indicates that the monitored battery cell 100 is operating normally, without any signs of degradation or failure.

[0065]

[0056] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery cell 100 contains a layer at least one quantum dots 202, including one of a silicon quantum dot 504 or a carbon quantum dot 514, which are designed to sense specific gas molecules, such as hydrogen (H2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and carbon monoxide (CO). Under normal battery conditions, the battery cell 100 may release the one or more gas molecules at very low intensities. However, during abnormal conditions, the battery cell 100 may enter a decomposition state, causing the release of the one or more gas molecules in varying concentrations with high intensity. The at least one quantum dot 202 embedded within the current collector 110 of the cell 100 may detect and identify each of the one or more gas molecules.

[0066]

[0057] At step 408, if any of the one or more gas molecules are released and collide with the at least one quantum dot 202, the energy levels of the at least one quantum dot 202 increase. That is, each of the at least one quantum dot 202 may identify the presence of the gas molecules by reacting with the gas molecules, causing the at least one quantum dot 202 to become excited to higher energy levels. This reaction results in the emission of photons at different wavelengths.

[0067]

[0058] At step 410, the emitted photons are transmitted through the optical fiber 112 to the vapor cell 304 for further analysis.

[0068]

[0059] At step 412, the system 300 checks whether the wavelengths emitted by the photons fall within an infrared region. If the wavelengths are in the infrared range, the Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO rubidium atoms within the vapor cell 304 may obtain higher energy level due to incident wavelengths of the at least one quantum dot 202 at step 414. The incident wavelength from the at least one quantum dot 202 affects the vapor cell 304, causing the atoms in the vapor cell 304 to reflect and refract. In an embodiment, the vapor cell 304 may measure intensities of different quantum dot layers sensitive to CO2, CO, and H2. In an embodiment, any other vapor cell 304, other than the rubidium vapor cell, may be used for the purposes, as illustrated above.

[0069]

[0060] Once the energy levels are raised, the photon detector 302 measures the intensity and phase of the wavelengths of the emitted photons at step 416, and the information relating to the intensity and the phase of the wavelengths of the emitted photons is relayed to the control module 312 at step 418. The control module 312 uses this information at step 420 to extract cell identification data from the photon detector 302, allowing it to predict and identify any faulty cells at step 422. In an embodiment, if a critical condition is detected, the control module 312 may trigger a fuse 106 (for example, a blowout fuse) at step 424 as a backup mechanism to prevent thermal runaway.

[0070]

[0061] If the wavelengths emitted by the photons do not fall within the infrared region, at step 426, the vapor cell 304 may be excited using a pulse of the laser 306. The photon detector 302 then measures the emitted photons. At step 428, the photon detector 302 directs the emitted photons wavelength towards the vapor cell 304, causing a change in the rubidium energy levels. At step 430, the photon detector 302 may measure the wavelengths of the emitted photons based on the changes in the rubidium energy levels using a second pulse of the laser 306.

[0071]

[0062] At step 432, the results from the first laser pulse and the second laser pulse are compared using the comparator 310. This information is then transmitted to the control module 312, as referenced in step 418. The control module 312 uses this comparison data to predict and identify faulty cells at step 422. If a fault is detected, the control module 312 activates the fuse 106 at step 424 to prevent the thermal runaway conditions.

[0072]

[0063] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a battery pack 500, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 1 A to FIG. 4. Referring to FIG. 5, the battery pack 500 may include a battery Internal Ref: 2024P02069WG pack cover 502 and at least one battery cell 100 (as explained in earlier embodiments). In this embodiment, the at least one quantum dot 202, including a Silicon (Si) quantum dot 506 or a Carbon quantum dot 514, may be embedded or fabricated within the battery pack cover 502 of the battery pack 500.

[0073]

[0064] In an embodiment, the battery pack cover 502 may include an optical film 504, a plurality of Silicon quantum dots 506, along with a palladium coating 508, a polymer 510, and a copper mesh 512. In another embodiment, in the case of using a plurality of carbon quantum dots 514, the battery pack cover 502 may include a graphene coating 516, the polymer 510, and the copper mesh 512, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0074]

[0065] FIG 6 illustrates a perspective view 600 of the at least one quantum dots 202 (including the Si quantum dots 202a or the Carbon quantum dots 202b and 202c) that are fitted within the battery pack 500 as shown in FIG. 5, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 6, the plurality of quantum dots 202 may include a Hydrogen (H2) quantum dot 202a, a CO2 quantum dot 202b, a Carbon monoxide (CO) quantum dot 202c, or any other quantum dot made of any other material.

[0075]

[0066] FIG. 7 an alternative arrangement of the battery monitoring system 300 for protecting a battery pack 500, in accordance with an out-cell battery configuration. It shall be noted that the arrangement depicted in FIG. 7 is an alternative to the arrangement depicted in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, wherein the battery monitoring system 300 is explained according to an in-cell battery configuration. In an embodiment, the in-cell battery configuration refers to an arrangement wherein the at least one quantum dots 202 are fitted or arranged within the at least one cell 100 of the battery pack 500 and coupled to the at least one optical fiber 112. On the other hand, the out-cell battery configuration refers to an arrangement wherein the at least one quantum dots 202 are fitted or arranged along the battery pack cover 502 of the battery pack 500, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0076]

[0067] FIG. 7 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B. The battery monitoring system 300 may operate based on the emitted photon data in the NIR spectrum. The photons emitted from the plurality of quantum dots 202 are carried through the optical fiber 112 and are analyzed to determine the health of the battery pack 500. If the photons emitted are of higher energy levels, it indicates that the battery Internal Ref: 2024P02069WQ cell 100 is operating within normal conditions. However, if the energy levels fall below a certain threshold, the battery cell 100 is considered to be operating within abnormal conditions, potentially due to overheating or the release of one or more gas molecules. The wavelengths of the emitted photons are continuously monitored by the vapor cell 304, which provides feedback to the control module 312. The control module 312 may utilize the intensity and phase information corresponding to the measured wavelengths to ensure that the battery pack 500 remains within safe operating conditions. By integrating quantum dot technology, the vapor cell 304, and a network of optical fibers 112, the battery monitoring system 300 provides a real-time data on health of the battery pack 500, identifies potential faults, and ensures the overall safety and reliability of the battery pack 500 during its operation.

[0077]

[0068] Referring to FIG. 7, the battery monitoring system 300 may include a battery pack 500 (shown in FIG. 5). The battery pack 500 may include a battery pack cover 502. Each battery pack cover 502 may include at least one quantum dot 202, which includes at least a H2 quantum dot 202a (also referred to as Si quantum dot 506), and CO quantum dot 202b or CO2 quantum dot 202c (collectively referred to as Carbon quantum dots 514), and the like. Each of the at least one quantum dot 202 is communicatively coupled to the vapor cell 304 via the optical fibers 112. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the vapor cell 304 may be a three-cylinder rubidium vapor cell including H2 tuned rubidium, CO2 tuned rubidium, and CO tuned rubidium. Further, the vapor cell 304 may be connected to the photon detector 302. The photon detector 302 is further coupled to the control module 312.

[0078]

[0069] FIG. 8 illustrates flow chart 800 for predicting and identifying faulty battery cells using the battery monitoring system 700 as shown in FIG. 7, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. This flow chart should be reviewed in conjunction with FIGS. 1 A to 7.

[0079]

[0070] The flow chart begins with step 802, where the battery monitoring system 300 is initialized to continuously monitor and detect the presence of one or more gas molecules within at least one battery cell 100. The battery cell 100 may be encapsulated within a battery pack 500. The battery monitoring system 300 relies on Quantum Dot (QD) technology and uses the at least one quantum dot 202 embedded in either the battery cell 100 or in the battery pack cover 502, to detect the one or more Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO gas molecules and determine a battery degradation or potential failure of the battery pack 500.

[0080]

[0071] At step 804, if no gas molecules are detected, the energy state of the quantum dots 202 in the battery pack cover 502 remains unaffected. This indicates that the battery pack 500 is healthy, as confirmed in step 806.

[0081]

[0072] In case where there is an emission of the one or more gas molecules, each of the at least one quantum dot 202 may experience an increase in energy levels, as described in step 808. This energy increase results in the emission of photons by the at least one quantum dot 202. At step 810, the photons emitted by the at least one quantum dot 202, which fall within the Near-Infrared (NIR) spectrum, are transmitted to the vapor cell 304 through the optical fiber 112.

[0082]

[0073] At step 812, the vapor cell 304 absorbs the photons and reaches a higher energy level due to the unique wavelength of the photons emitted from the at least one quantum dots 202. The increased energy levels are detected by the photon detector 302 in step 814, which measures the information related to the emitted photons. The measured information may include the intensity and phase of the emitted photons.

[0083]

[0074] At step 816, the photon detector 302 may transmit the measured information to the control module 312. Based on the received data, the control module 312 extracts battery pack identification information for each quantum dot 202 at step 818. With this data, the control module 312 predicts and identifies one or more faulty battery cells 100 in the battery pack 500 at step 820.

[0084]

[0075] It is to be understood that a person of ordinary skill in the art may develop a system of similar configuration without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Such modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations provided they come within the ambit of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0085] Equivalents:

[0086]

[0076] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and / or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and / or from the Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and / or application. The various singular / plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and / or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.

[0087]

[0077] It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

[0088] List of Reference Numerals Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO

Claims

Internal Ref: 2024P02069WOWe claim:1 . A battery monitoring system (300) for a battery pack (500), the battery monitoring system (300) comprising: a battery pack (500) comprising at least one quantum dot (202, 202a, 202b, 202c), communicatively coupled to at least one optical fiber (112), wherein the at least one quantum dot (202, 202a, 202b, 202c) is configured to emit one or more photons upon interacting with one or more gas molecules released by at least one cell (100) of the battery pack (500); a vapor cell (304), connected to the battery pack (500) via the at least one optical fiber (112), wherein the vapor cell (304) is configured to get excited by the one or more photons; a photon detector (302) in communication with the vapor cell (304), wherein the photon detector (302) is configured to measure at least an intensity and a wavelength of the one or more the photons emitted by the vapor cell (304); and a control module (312) in communication with the photon detector (302), wherein the control module (312) is configured to determine an operational status of the battery pack (500) based on at least one of the intensity and the wavelength.

2. The battery monitoring system (300) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the at least one optical fiber (112) is configured to carry the one or more photons emitted at the least one quantum dot (202, 202a, 202b, 202c), wherein the one or more gas molecules comprises at least one of Hydrogen (H2), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), and Carbon Monoxide (CO), and other volatile organic compounds released from different components of the battery pack (500).

3. The battery monitoring system (300) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the wavelength of the one or more photons emitted by the at least one quantum dot (202, 202a, 202b, 202c) is unique to the one or more gas molecules interacting with the at least one quantum dot (202, 202a, 202b, 202c).Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO4. The battery monitoring system (300) as claimed in claim 1 to claim 3, wherein the at least one quantum dot (202, 202a, 202b, 202c) is fitted into a current collector (110) of each cell (100) of the battery pack (500).

5. The battery monitoring system (300) as claimed in claim 4, wherein each cell (100) of the battery pack (500) further comprises a fuse element (106) connected between the current collector (110) and a terminal of corresponding cell (100).

6. The battery monitoring system (300) as claimed in claim 1 to claim 5, wherein the battery monitoring system (300) further comprises a cell identification quantum dot (308), corresponding to each cell (100) of the battery pack (500), and placed in a path of an optical fiber (112) associated with corresponding cell, wherein the cell identification quantum dot (308) is configured to emit photons of unique wavelength for identification of the corresponding cell.

7. The battery monitoring system (300) as claimed in claim 1 to claim 3, wherein the battery pack (500) comprises an optical film (504) which encapsulates the at least one quantum dot (202, 202a, 202b, 202c), and wherein the optical film (504) is positioned in proximity to a battery pack cover (502) and communicatively coupled to the at least one optical fiber (112).

8. The battery monitoring system (300) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the optical film (504) with the at least one quantum dot (202, 202a, 202b, 202c) is positioned below the battery pack cover (502), and the battery monitoring system (300) further comprises at least a coating layer (508), a polymer (510) and a copper mesh (512) arranged in layers below the optical film (504).

9. The battery monitoring system (300) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the battery monitoring system (300) further comprises at least one module encoding quantum dot, corresponding to each cell (100) of the battery pack (500), wherein the at least one module encoding quantum dot is configured to emit photons of unique wavelength for identifying corresponding cell (100) of the battery pack (500).Internal Ref: 2024P02069WO10. The battery monitoring system (300) as claimed in any one of preceding claims, wherein the battery monitoring system (300) is for the battery pack (500) of a vehicle.

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