A casing unit for containing a hazardous object

Abstract

A casing unit for containing a hazardous object is provided. Casing unit includes a casing adapted to contain the hazardous object, wherein the casing is adapted to be airtight; a pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the casing, wherein the pressure relief valve is adapted to vent gases from the casing and alleviate internal pressure within the casing; a filter unit in fluid communication with the pressure relief valve, wherein the filter unit is adapted to filter the gases exiting the pressure relief valve to become non-flammable gases before entering the environment.

Description

A Casing Unit for Containing a Hazardous ObjectCross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of Singapore Patent Application No. 10202404023W filed on December 20, 2024, which is incorporated by reference herein.Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a casing unit for containing a hazardous object. For example, a casing unit for containing a battery unit, e.g. lithium ion battery.Background

[0003] Hazardous objects, e.g. rechargeable lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries, play a vital role in all renewable energy applications because of their ability to store direct current (DC) power generated from sources such as photovoltaic (PV) panels, hydropower systems, and wind turbines. These batteries can discharge stored energy to supply power to electronic devices as needed. In addition to traditional uses, rechargeable batteries are increasingly utilized in new technologies, such as electric vehicles (EVs), serving as substitutes for petrol -engine vehicles.

[0004] There is also a growing trend towards harnessing renewable energy sources such as solar photovoltaic panels and wind turbines, driven by rising energy tariffs and increasing awareness of the adverse effects of carbon emissions. Despite these benefits, the implementation of renewable energy involves high capital costs and extended return on investment periods, primarily due to limited sunlight hours and restricted rooftop space on buildings. To address these challenges, Solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are gaining popularity. Hence, efficient energy storage solution that can be integrated into buildings with limited space or where ownership models (like PPAs) are required.

[0005] Researchers and companies in the above sectors are actively developing combinations of cathode and anode materials to enhance the energy density of Li-ion batteries. While these advancements lead to higher energy densities, they also result in lower thermal stability, raisingsignificant safety concerns, most notably thermal runaway. All batteries carry a risk of thermal runaway, which can potentially cause fires or explosions, making it crucial to address these safety risks.

[0006] Thermal runaway refers to a chain exothermic reaction within a battery. This reaction causes a rapid increase in the battery’s internal temperature, leading to destabilization and degradation of the battery. Thermal runaway can be initiated by various factors, including mechanical damage, exposure to external heat, short circuits, or overcharging. During this process, flammable gases are emitted. If these gases accumulate in a confined space, the resulting pressure build-up greatly increases the risk of an explosion. Therefore, effective pressure relief and gas treatment solutions are essential to minimize operational risk and maintain safety.

[0007] Most batteries are currently utilized in the form of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). These systems are typically large and bulky, with dimensions approximately 1x1x2 meters (LxWxH) and weighing over one tonne. Such size and weight present installation challenges, especially in scenarios with space or weight constraints, or where access is inconvenient. Larger ESS units with higher energy densities pose an increased risk of thermal runaway, which can result in the release of flammable gases and potentially cause fires or explosions. It is recognized that any hazardous object has the potential to emit flammable gases and present an explosion risk upon combustion.

[0008] Globally, fire safety standards for battery systems are often benchmarked against UL9540A: the ANSI / CAN / UL Standard for Test Method for Evaluating Thermal Runaway Fire Propagation in Battery Energy Storage Systems In Singapore, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) adopts this standard to assess fire safety in Li-ion BESS installations. The UL9540A test comprises four levels: Cell, Module, Unit, and Installation. The present design aims to meet performance requirements at both the Module and Unit levels, ensuring the product’s versatility and enabling categorization in either level as necessary.

[0009] Due to the strong demand for effective solutions to the challenges outlined above and the need to meet high safety standards, it is an object of this invention is to address these issues and deliver a reliable solution.Summary

[0010] According to various embodiments, a casing unit for containing a hazardous object is provided. Casing unit includes a casing adapted to contain the hazardous object, wherein the casing is adapted to be airtight; a pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the casing, wherein the pressure relief valve is adapted to vent gases from the casing and alleviate internal pressure within the casing; a filter unit in fluid communication with the pressure relief valve, wherein the filter unit is adapted to filter the gases exiting the pressure relief valve to become non-flammable gases before entering the environment.

[0011] According to various embodiments, the filter unit may include at least one of a particle removal unit and a contaminant removal unit.

[0012] According to various embodiments, may further include a liquid cooling system adapted to cool the hazardous object.

[0013] According to various embodiments, may further include a fire suppression unit adapted to be activated to suppress a fire in the casing when a fire is detected.

[0014] According to various embodiments, may further include a sensor unit adapted to detect gases and / or temperature in the casing.

[0015] According to various embodiments, the particle removal unit may be attachable to the contaminant removal unit.

[0016] According to various embodiments, the particle removal unit and the contaminant removal unit each may include an inlet on a top side thereof and an outlet on a bottom side thereof opposite the top side, such that each inlet may include a connector surrounding the inlet and each outlet may include a receiver surrounding the outlet and for receiving the connector, such that, when connected, the connector and receiver provides an airtight connection.

[0017] According to various embodiments, the connector may include an upper collar and the receiver may include a lower collar, such that the lower collar is smaller than the upper collar and is adapted to fit tightly into the upper collar to provide an airtight connection.

[0018] According to various embodiments, the casing may be fire-rated.Brief Description of Drawings

[0019] Fig. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a casing unit.

[0020] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the particle removal unit.

[0021] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a contaminant removal unit.

[0022] Fig. 4 shows a photo of examples of a particle removal unit with a particle filter and a contaminant removal unit with a contaminant filter.

[0023] Fig. 5 shows a setup of the battery unit with the filter unit.

[0024] Fig. 6 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the casing unit.

[0025] Fig. 7 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the casing unit.

[0026] Fig. 8 shows a front view of the casing of the casing unit in Fig. 7.

[0027] Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 show perspective views of two exemplary embodiments of the casing unit without the filter unit

[0028] Fig. 11 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the casing unit.

[0029] Fig. 12 shows exemplary embodiments of the ways the casing unit is being deployed.Detailed Description

[0030] In the following examples, reference will be made to the figures, in which identical features are designated with like numerals.

[0031] Fig. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the casing unit 100 for containing a hazardous object 10. For the purpose of describing the casing unit 100, a battery unit 12 is used. When thermal runaway happens to the battery unit 12, flammable gases are emitted. However, the hazardous object 10 may include solids or liquids that emits flammable or toxic gases, e g. hydrocarbon, when combusted. Casing unit 100 includes a casing 102 adapted to contain the hazardous object 10, such that the casing 102 is adapted to be airtight; a pressure relief valve 110 in fluid communication with the casing 102, such that the pressure relief valve 110 is adapted to vent gases from the casing 102 and alleviate internal pressure within the casing 102; a filter unit 100F in fluid communication with the pressure relief valve 110, wherein the filter unit 100F is adapted to filter the gases exiting the pressure relief valve 110 to become non-flammable gas before entering the environment.

[0032] Casing unit 100 is specifically engineered to address and mitigate risks associated with thermal runaway across all conceivable scenarios. Its primary goal is to ensure the safety of the casing unit 100 during potential thermal runaway events. By doing so, the design supports secure and reliable operation of the casing unit 100, particularly in environments where occupants may be present. This focus on safety is integral to the overall system, aiming to deliver dependable performance while prioritising protection against hazardous incidents.

[0033] Battery unit 12 may be designed with energy capacity rating of up to 20kWh, e.g. 19.9kWh or 9.9kWh, and with fire safety attributes suitable for indoor / outdoor, residential / non- residential application.Pressure Relief Valve

[0034] Pressure relief valve 110 is adapted to vent gases and alleviate internal pressure in accordance with international standards. This in turn helps to slow down deflagration and lowers the risk of explosion. By connecting a filter unit 100F to the pressure relief valve 110, harmful gases that exits the valve can be filtered before being released into the environment. Pressure relief valve 110 may be connected to the control unit to be monitored if the valve is activated.Filter Unit

[0035] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the particle removal unit

[0036] Casing unit 100 may include a filter unit 100F connected to the pressure relief valve 110 to filter any harmful gas that exits the pressure relief valve 110 so that the gases that exit the casing unit 100 is non-flammable. Filter unit 100F may include a particle removal unit 120 and / or a contaminant removal unit 130. Particle removal unit 120 may be attachable to the contaminant removal unit 130.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 2, the particle removal unit 120 may include a housing 120H having an inlet 120N disposed at a top side of the particle removal unit 120 and an outlet 120U disposed at a bottom side of the particle removal unit 120, opposite the top side. A particle filter (not shown in Fig. 2) may be inserted into the housing via an opening 120P so that the particle filter 120F is disposed between the inlet 120N and the outlet 120U. After inserting the particle filter 120F, a door 120D may be fitted onto the opening to seal the housing 120H so that the particle removal unit 120, when the inlet 120N and outlet 120U are connected, is airtight. It is beneficial to position the inlet 120N directly across the outlet 120U so that the gases pass through the filter 120F linearly and the particulates therein can be caught by the filter 120F without being dislodged easily. Particle filter 120F may be a mesh filter, HEPA filters, etc. Housing 120H may include locks 120L to lock the door 120D to the housing 120H.

[0038] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a contaminant removal unit 130. As shown in Fig. 3, the contaminant removal unit 130 may include a container 130H having an inlet 130N disposed at the top of the unit 130 and an air outlet 130U disposed at the bottom of the unit 13 ON, opposite the inlet 13 ON. Contaminant filter 13 OF may be inserted into the container 130C via an opening HOP and disposed between the inlet HON and the outlet 130U. After inserting the filter HOF, the opening HOP may be fitted with a door HOD to seal the container 13 OH airtight. Depending on the requirement, more than one filter HOF may be inserted in series into the unit 130. Contaminant filter 130F may include filter material that adsorbs the flammable gases. Contaminant filter 130F may be activated carbon filter, catalytic filter, molecular sieves, etc. Housing 130H may include locks HOL to lock the door HOD to the housing 130H.

[0039] Filter unit 100F may be designed to allow flexibility in connecting the number of particle removal unit 120 and contaminant removal unit 130 to each other. Referring to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the inlet 120N and inlet HON may each include a connector 120C,130C surrounding the inlets 120N,130N. Connectors 120C,130C may be upper collars and are of the same size. Outlet HOU and outlet 130U may each include a receiver (not shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3) surrounding the outlets 120U,130U for receiving the connector 120C,130C. Receiver may be lower collars (not shown in Fig 2 and Fig 3) of the same size but smaller than the upper collars so that the lower collars can fit tightly into the upper collars to provide an airtight connection. In this way, it is possible to connect a particle removal unit 120 onto another one thereof or to a contaminant removal unit 130 by fitting the upper collar of the former to the lower collar of the latter or the contaminant removal unit 130 may be connected onto another one thereof, or to the particle removal unit 120. It is clear that it is possible to connect any number and configuration of the particle removal unit 120 and contaminant removal unit 130 together, depending on the filtration requirement For example, if more thorough removal of solid particles is required, additional particle removal units 120 may be connected in sequence or if a larger volume of gases is expected, the number of contaminant removal units 130 may be connected in series. Both filters 120,130 are thus modular so they can be arranged in any order as needed. Fasteners may be used to secure the upper collars 120C,130C to the lower collars to ensure that the connection is secured and airtight. This adaptable approach makes it possible to efficiently handle different volumes of gases or particulates. It is also possible to incorporate both the particle removal unit 120 and the contaminant removal unit 130 into a single integratedfilter unit if necessary. Filter unit 100F may be connected directly to the pressure relief valve 110, whereby the connection is airtight. Pressure relief valve 110 may include an upper or lower collar as described above so that it can be connected to the particle removal unit 120 or contaminant removal unit 130.

[0040] Filter unit 100F and its components are configured to maintain a completely airtight seal between each other. When thermal runaway occurs, the battery unit 12 emits flammable gases such as hydrocarbons. To prevent these gases from escaping, the casing unit 100 is constructed with a sealing system that ensures an appropriate IP rating and the gases from within the casing 102 may be channelled directly to the pressure relief valve 110, where they are subsequently processed by the filter unit 100F For example, initially, the particle removal unit 120 removes any unwanted solid particles from the discharged gases, preventing them from reaching the contaminant removal filter or being released into the environment. Contaminant removal unit 130 may be adapted to treat any remaining flammable hydrocarbons before the gases are released to the atmosphere. Gases that are released to the atmosphere after filtration are non-flammable

[0041] Filter unit 100F, together with the pressure relief valve 110, forms an advance gas management system to manage the gases, slows down deflagration and lowers explosion risk.

[0042] Fig. 4 shows a photo of examples of a particle removal unit 120 with a particle filter 120F, e.g. mesh filter, and a contaminant removal unit 130 with a contaminant filter 130F, e.g. activated carbon filter.

[0043] Fig. 5 shows a setup of the casing unit 100 with the filter unit 100F.

[0044] As shown in Fig. 5, the casing 102 may be connected to the filter unit 100F so that the gases from the casing 102 is able to be directed into the filter unit 100F. Casing 102 may include an aperture 102U where gases are allowed to escape from. A conduit (not shown in Fig. 5) is securely connectable to the aperture 102U at one end thereof and the other end to the inlet of the particle removal unit 120 such that the connections are airtight. Particle removal unit 120may be connected to the contaminant removal unit 130 via their respective collars 120C, 130C, where the connection is also airtight Collars for the outlets are not shown in the figures.

[0045] When the gases exit the casing 102, they are passed through the conduit as indicated by the curved arrow, into and through the particle removal unit 120 to remove particles in the gases. Then, the filtered gases pass through the contaminant removal unit 130 to remove contaminants before letting the non-flammable gases into the environment.

[0046] While the setup as shown in Fig. 5 includes only one particle removal unit 120 and one contaminant removal unit 130, as mentioned, it is possible to add more units of each type in series according to the required filtration. Alternatively, the filter unit 100F may be incorporated into the casing 102.Fire Suppression Unit

[0047] Fig. 6 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the casing unit 600.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 6, the casing unit 600 may include a fire suppression unit 640 configured to be activated to suppress a fire in the casing 602 when it happens. Fire suppression unit 640 may be in communication with the control unit 660.

[0049] Fire suppression unit 640 may include an aerosol unit containing an aerosol agent or equivalent fire suppression agent that is automatically deployed upon detection of abnormal temperature or gas emissions, extinguishing fires at an early stage. Fire suppression unit 640 may be activated through both automatic controls and manual controls. Automatic activation occurs when the control unit 660 identifies that environmental conditions, such as gas levels or temperature, have exceeded set safety thresholds, or when the sensor unit first detect flammable gases. Once activated, the aerosol agent will be deployed to lower cell temperatures and either prevent or extinguish any fire within the casing 602 of the casing unit 600. Any remaining flammable gases may be channelled to the pressure relief valve 610 for safe handling. Manual activation is triggered by a trigger 640, e.g. a thermal wire that runs across all battery units 12,that is connected to the fire suppression unit 640. If the trigger 640W is heated to an elevated temperature or detects an open flame, the aerosol agent is deployed immediately.

[0050] If thermal runaway persists and the fire inside the casing unit 600 cannot be extinguished, the casing 602 provides fire insulation on all sides thus ensuring that the fire is contained within the casing 602 for at least a pre-determined number of hours, e.g. two hours, providing ample time for evacuation and emergency intervention.Liquid Cooling System

[0051] Fig. 7 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the casing unit 700. Referring to Fig. 7, the casing unit 700 may include a liquid cooling system 750 adapted to cool the battery unit 12. Liquid cooling system 750 is in communication with and managed by the control unit (not shown in Fig. 7). Liquid cooling system 750 may be disposed on top of (as shown in Fig. 6) or under the battery unit 12 and may be as long and as wide as the battery unit 12. Liquid cooling system 750 contains liquid coolant therein. As shown in Fig. 7, the casing 702 has an aperture 702U with the pressure relief valve 710 for release of gases.

[0052] To ensure optimal convective cooling within the casing 702, the liquid cooling system 750 may include a snake-shaped liquid coolant pathway as shown in Fig. 6. However, other types of liquid cooling system may be used, e.g. base-type liquid coolant system as shown in Fig. 7, a fully submerged cooling configuration, etc. Referring to Fig. 7, the liquid cooling system 750 is disposed below the battery unit 12 and extends to the whole base of the battery unit 12. Liquid cooling system 750 is configured to effectively regulate and manage the temperature of individual battery unit 12 during operation.

[0053] Liquid cooling system 750 is adapted to maintain optimal battery temperature. If overheating is detected, the control unit disconnects the battery unit 12 from charging and supply to prevent escalation. Liquid cooling system 750 works together with the control unit to provide temperature control to the battery unit 12

[0054] Control unit is configured to continuously monitor the battery parameters, including battery unit 12 temperatures, using the sensor unit. Based on real-time data, the control unit automatically controls the supply and flow rate of the coolant, thereby optimizing the thermal environment within the casing unit 700. In this way, the casing unit 700 actively monitors and regulate the battery to maintain stable cell temperatures throughout the battery’s operation. In the event that the temperature of any battery unit 12 exceeds the defined safety threshold, the control unit initiates a protective response. In such cases, the casing unit 700 triggers a disconnect sequence, isolating the battery unit 12 from both the charger and the supply source to prevent further temperature escalation and mitigate potential hazards.

[0055] Casing unit 700 may be designed to enable fully submersible battery units in the casing 702 with an appropriate Ingress Protection (IP) rating. By maintaining battery units in a submersed state substantially limits temperature rise, significantly lowering the likelihood of thermal runaway events and enhancing overall unit safety.

[0056] Fig. 8 shows a front view of the casing 702 of the casing unit 700 in Fig. 7. As shown in Fig. 8, the casing 702 may include communication ports. Communication ports may include input port 752N and output port 752U in communication with the liquid cooling system 750 for circulating the coolant into and out of the casing 702. Additionally, the casing 702 includes terminals 754 that enable connections to other batteries, either in series or parallel, as well as to suitable loads for the delivery of electrical energy, power conversion units, power conditioning units, and high-voltage equipment, etc. Casing 702 may also include the pressure relief valve 710.Sensor Unit

[0057] Casing unit 100 may include the sensor unit adapted to detect gases and the condition, e.g. temperature, within the casing 702. Sensor unit may include a sensor for temperature in the casing 702, a sensor for gases, e g. volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), smoke, hydrogen, etc. Control unit is configured to receive signals from the sensor unit so as to continuously monitors these parameters and triggers safety responses as needed. For example, trigger the fire suppression unit 640 to suppress a fire when a fire is detectedCasing

[0058] Battery unit 12 may be enclosed in the casing 102 that provides fire containment up to a certain period, i.e. casing 102 may be fire-rated capable of containing fire for at least two hours, preventing the spread of flames and allowing safe evacuation and intervention.

[0059] Casing 102 may include fire insulated walls (see Fig. 6) on all sides thereof. For a cuboid shaped casing 102, all the walls include the four vertical walls, the base and the cover. Casing 102 may include quick-locking mechanism to lock the cover into place quickly. In a situation when the hazardous object 10 needs to be disposed into the casing unit 100 quickly, e g. when it is combusting or going to combust, the cover may be secured to the casing 102 quickly by the quick-locking mechanism. In addition, the quick-locking mechanism may be adapted to be quick-release as well. In the event that the cover needs to be removed to access the content in the casing 102, the quick-release mechanism enables the cover to be unlocked quickly so that the cover can be unlocked quickly from the casing 102. Fire insulation wall may contain certified materials such as rock wool.

[0060] Casing 102 may be adapted to enable ingress protection (IP), i.e. prevent dust, water and foreign objects from entering. To prevent these gases from escaping, the casing 102 may be constructed with a sealing system that ensures an appropriate IP rating and the gases from within the casing 102 may be channelled directly to the pressure relief valve 1 10, where they are subsequently processed by the filter unit 100F. For example, initially, the particle removal unit 120 removes any unwanted solid particles from the discharged gases, preventing them from reaching the contaminant removal unit 130 or being released into the environment. Contaminant removal unit 130 may be adapted to treat any remaining flammable hydrocarbons before the gases are released to the atmosphere so that the released gases are non-flammable. Hence, the casing 702 is airtight except for the opening for any gases to escape.Modular and Flexible Design

[0061] Casing unit 100 is compact, lightweight, and designed for stacking, wall-mounting, or raised floor installation. This modularity allows for easy integration into new or existing infrastructure, even in space- or weight-constrained environments.Regulatory Compliance

[0062] The energy capacity of the battery unit 12 is intentionally kept below 20kWh, exempting it from certain fire code requirements while still meeting or exceeding the safety criteria of UL9540A, BS 476, SCDF Master Fire Code 2023, and NFPA 855, etc.Control unit

[0063] Casing unit 100 may include a control unit configured to monitor the parameters of the casing unit 100 during operation.

[0064] Control unit may be in communication with at least one of the fire suppression unit 140, the liquid cooling system 150, and the sensor unit. As described above, once any one of the monitored parameters exceeds a threshold, the control unit may activate one or more of the units to respond accordingly. Control unit is also configured to control the terminals of the casing 102 to enable or disable charging of the casing unit 100.

[0065] Control unit may include a processor and an integrated memory system in communication with the processor, enabling high-speed data processing and robust storage of operational parameters and event logs. Additionally, the control unit features a dedicated control module that is specifically configured to oversee and regulate all aspects of the operation of the battery unit 100. Control unit is configured to monitor real-time data from the sensors, such as temperature, gas, smoke, etc., ensuring continuous assessment of the battery’s internal environment. Control module is configured to process incoming sensor data to detect anomalies or hazardous conditions, such as abnormal temperature rises or the presence of volatile gases. In response, it can autonomously execute safety protocols, such as activating fire suppression systems, initiating pressure relief mechanisms, or disconnecting the battery from loads to prevent escalation. Furthermore, the control unit manages communication withexternal systems for remote monitoring, supports firmware updates for ongoing performance improvements, and ensures compliance with relevant regulatory standards. By integrating these functions, the control unit plays a critical role in maintaining the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the battery unit 100 throughout its operational lifecycle

[0066] Casing unit 100 may include an alarm connected to the control unit. When the control unit detects a fire within the casing 102, the control unit may activate the alarm to alert the surrounding.

[0067] Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 show perspective views of two exemplary embodiments of the casing unit 900,1000 without the filter unit. As shown, the casing 902, 1002 may include fire insulating walls on all sides of the battery unit 12 including the cover 902V, 1002V.

[0068] Battery unit 12 may be low energy density battery unit below 20kWh threshold. Hence, the risk of thermal runaway is greatly reduced.

[0069] Fig. 11 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the casing unit 100.

[0070] As shown in Fig. 11, the casing unit 100 includes the casing 102 for enclosing the hazardous object 10, the pressure relief valve 110 in fluid communication with the casing 102, the filter unit 100F in fluid communication with the pressure relief valve 1 10, the fire suppression unit 140, liquid cooling system 150, sensor unit 160 housed in the casing 102, the control unit 170 housed in the casing 102 and in communication with the fire suppression unit 140, the liquid cooling system 150 and the sensor unit 160. Filter unit 100F may include the particle removal unit 120 and the contaminant removal unit 130.

[0071] Fig. 12 shows exemplary embodiments of the ways the casing unit 100 is being deployed.

[0072] Casing unit 100 is designed for seamless integration into a variety of existing systems and infrastructures, requiring only a few straightforward installation steps. Recognizing that each building’s layout and use case is unique, the modular nature of the design offersadaptability for incorporation at both the building and unit levels. Casing unit 100 features an appropriate IP rating, allowing for installation in indoor or outdoor settings, whether residential or commercial. Referring to Fig. 12, to maximize space efficiency, the casing unit 100 may be installed in multiple configurations, such as vertical stacking (see (a)), wall mounting (see (c) and (d), or horizontal placement on a raised floor (see (b)). These options support diverse methods of deployment.

[0073] Such versatility means the casing unit 100 can be easily connected to renewable energy sources like photovoltaic (PV) panels, hydropower systems, wind turbines or Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS). This adaptability enhances the unit’s usability, supporting the growing shift toward renewable energy adoption and efforts to lower carbon emissions.

[0074] Tn summary, the casing unit’s design is crucial for ensuring safe, dependable fire prevention, while its modular and flexible structure enables straightforward integration across a broad range of applications and infrastructure types.

[0075] Each casing unit 100 is equipped to maintain battery unit 12 at healthy operating temperatures, with aerosol or other fire suppression agents on standby for rapid deployment when temperature thresholds are reached or when initial thermal runaway vent gases are detected. The system directs and treats gas emissions from the battery unit 12 or a hazardous object 10, and all six walls of the unit are constructed to be fire-rated.

[0076] Casing unit 100 is engineered to comply with the UL9540A standard, BS476 (Fire Rated Walls / Door), etc., addressing both module and unit level criteria in the event of thermal runaway. At the module level, the design ensures that fire and elevated temperatures are contained within the module, and that flammable gases are effectively treated after their release. At the unit level, the system maintains the battery energy storage system (BESS) temperature below the surface temperature during gas venting, meeting heat flux limits for safe egress. Additionally, the temperature increase of the unit’s walls is kept below 97°C (175°F), and the product is designed to exhibit no explosion hazards or flaming beyond the outer dimensions of the BESS unit, even in indoor and wall-mounted installations.

[0077] Casing unit 100 is designed to be light and versatile to be readily integrated with wide applications with minimal infrastructures changes. With the possibility of being vertically stacked or wall hanged. Casing unit 100 is able to readily integrate multiple renewable energy sources into the system, which translates to further carbon footprint reduction

[0078] In contrast to traditional Energy Storage Systems (ESS) that are often large, cumbersome, and require substantial Gross Floor Area (GF A) for installation, as well as heavy equipment like lorry cranes or building hoists for positioning, our design prioritizes modularity and ease of integration. Recognizing that space limitations are a common challenge and that overhauling existing infrastructure is undesirable, the casing unit 100 has been engineered to be modular, allowing for flexible installation options and straightforward integration into current systems.

[0079] The present casing unit 100 addresses the fire safety requirements for a wide range of applications, including industrial and commercial units, confined spaces, underground installations, electric vehicles, and environments where human presence is common. The casing unit 100 is also designed to be mobile, supporting flexible and feasible integration with existing applications and infrastructure. Depending on the specific application and power load requirements, either design option can be selected. By mitigating the risk of fire occurrence through the management of thermal runaway and treatment of harmful gas emissions, and by ensuring flexible integration methods, the invention delivers substantial economic, environmental, and safety benefits. It stands as an invaluable asset in the pursuit of a greener and more sustainable energy future

[0080] A skilled person would appreciate that the features described in one example may not be restricted to that example and may be combined with any one of the other examples.

[0081] The present invention relates to a casing unit generally as herein described, with reference to and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Claims

Claim1. A casing unit for containing a hazardous object, comprising: a casing adapted to contain the hazardous object, wherein the casing is adapted to be airtight, a pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the casing, wherein the pressure relief valve is adapted to vent gases from the casing and alleviate internal pressure within the casing, a filter unit in fluid communication with the pressure relief valve, wherein the filter unit is adapted to filter the gases exiting the pressure relief valve to become nonflammable gases before entering the environment.

2. The casing unit according to claim 1, wherein the filter unit comprises at least one of a particle removal unit and a contaminant removal unit.

3. The casing unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a liquid cooling system adapted to cool the hazardous object.

4. The casing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a fire suppression unit adapted to be activated to suppress a fire in the casing when a fire is detected.

5. The casing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a sensor unit adapted to detect gases and / or temperature in the casing.

6. The casing unit according to claim 2, wherein the particle removal unit is attachable to the contaminant removal unit.

7. The casing unit according to claim 6, wherein the particle removal unit and the contaminant removal unit each comprises an inlet on a top side thereof and an outlet on a bottom side thereof opposite the top side, wherein each inlet comprises a connector surrounding the inlet and each outlet comprises a receiver surrounding the outlet and for receiving the connector, wherein, when connected, the connector and receiver provides an airtight connection.

8. The casing unit according to claim 7, wherein the connector comprises an upper collar and the receiver comprises a lower collar, wherein the lower collar is smaller than the upper collar and is adapted to fit tightly into the upper collar to provide an airtight connection.

9. The casing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the casing is fire-rated.

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