Battery pack structure and method for controlling thermal runaway of battery pack

Abstract

Disclosed in the present application are a battery pack structure and a method for controlling the thermal runaway of a battery pack. The battery pack structure comprises a casing, battery cells, a collecting pipeline, first check valves, a gas output device, a second check valve and a power device, wherein a discharge port is provided on the casing; the battery cells are arranged in the casing, and each battery cell is provided with an explosion-proof valve; the collecting pipeline is arranged in the casing, is in communication with the explosion-proof valves and is connected to the discharge port; the first check valves are arranged between the battery cells and the collecting pipeline, the flow directions of the first check valves are from the explosion-proof valves to the collecting pipeline; the gas output device is arranged outside the casing, is located at the discharge port and is in communication with the collecting pipeline; a high-temperature gas discharged when the explosion-proof valves burst enters the collecting pipeline through the first check valves, and is then discharged from the battery pack through the gas output device; the second check valve is configured to prevent a fluid outside the battery pack from entering the battery pack through the gas output device; and the power device is configured to drive the high-temperature gas in the collecting pipeline to move towards the gas output device.

Description

Battery Pack Structure and Thermal Runaway Control Methods Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of new energy battery technology, and in particular to a battery pack structure and a method for controlling thermal runaway of the battery pack. Background Technology

[0002] Current new energy battery packs consist of multiple individual battery cells arranged in combination. Due to the requirements of the battery's operating environment, the battery pack structure needs to seal the internal individual battery cells. For each individual battery cell, the casing also needs to seal and protect the bare cell inside. When the battery is operating, various unforeseen operating conditions or quality defects can lead to thermal runaway of individual battery cells inside the battery pack. Because the battery pack is sealed, the high-temperature gases emitted by the individual battery cells, carrying internal materials, spread within the battery pack space and are difficult to expel. Furthermore, the heat cannot dissipate in time and accumulates inside the battery pack, potentially causing thermal runaway in other individual battery cells, leading to risks such as the entire battery pack exploding or rapidly igniting.

[0003] Application content

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a battery pack structure and a battery pack thermal runaway control method to solve the technical problem of high-temperature gas accumulating inside the battery pack during thermal runaway.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the first technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0006] A battery pack structure, comprising:

[0007] The outer casing has a drain outlet.

[0008] A single battery is disposed inside the housing, and an explosion-proof valve is provided on the single battery.

[0009] A manifold is disposed inside the housing, the manifold is connected to the explosion-proof valve, and the manifold is connected to the discharge port;

[0010] A first one-way valve is disposed inside the housing and located between the single cell and the manifold. The flow direction of the first one-way valve is from the explosion-proof valve to the manifold.

[0011] A venting device is provided outside the housing and located at the outlet. The venting device is connected to the manifold. When the explosion-proof valve explodes, the high-temperature gas discharged enters the manifold through the first one-way valve and is discharged from the battery pack through the venting device.

[0012] A second one-way valve, used to prevent external fluids from entering the battery pack through the venting device; and

[0013] A power unit is used to drive the high-temperature gas in the manifold to move toward the gas outlet device.

[0014] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the second technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0015] A battery pack thermal runaway control method, applied to the above-mentioned battery pack structure, the control method includes the following steps:

[0016] Monitor the status of explosion-proof valves;

[0017] When the explosion-proof valve is opened, the high-temperature gas discharged when the explosion-proof valve explodes enters the manifold through the first one-way valve and is discharged from the battery pack structure through the gas outlet device; at the same time, the power device drives the high-temperature gas in the manifold to move toward the gas outlet device.

[0018] Implementing the embodiments of this application will have the following beneficial effects:

[0019] The aforementioned battery pack structure has the technical effect of facilitating the discharge of high-temperature gases. Specifically, the present invention connects the explosion-proof valve of the individual battery through a manifold, which can be used to collect the high-temperature gases from the individual battery. Then, under the action of the power unit, the high-temperature gases in the manifold can be driven to the gas outlet device, and finally discharged through the gas outlet device. This prevents the high-temperature gases from accumulating inside the battery pack and solves the technical problem of high-temperature gases accumulating inside the battery pack during thermal runaway of existing battery packs.

[0020] By setting a first one-way valve, high-temperature gas entering the manifold is prevented from returning to the unexploded individual cells, causing a chain reaction of thermal runaway in other individual cells; by setting a second one-way valve, external gas or liquid is prevented from entering the battery pack through the venting device.

[0021] The above-mentioned battery pack thermal runaway control method, when applied to the battery pack in the above embodiment, can respond more quickly. When the explosion-proof valve is in the open state, it can be determined that the thermal runaway state has occurred. The high-temperature gas will enter the manifold through the first one-way valve. At this time, the power device can be turned on to move the high-temperature gas to the gas outlet device and discharge it through the gas outlet device. It can respond quickly and discharge the high-temperature gas in a timely manner, thereby solving the technical problem of high-temperature gas accumulating in the battery pack during thermal runaway of existing battery packs. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] in:

[0024] Figure 1 is a connection diagram of a battery pack structure according to an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of some individual cells in Figure 1;

[0026] Figure 3 is a simplified schematic diagram of the exhaust system in Figure 1;

[0027] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air outlet device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structural connection relationship of the second check valve according to an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a battery pack structure according to another embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 7 is an enlarged schematic diagram of part A in Figure 6;

[0031] Figure 8 is a flowchart of a battery pack thermal runaway control method in one embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air outlet device according to another embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of a manifold and a seal according to an embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack structure shown in Figure 6;

[0035] Figure 12 is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of part B in the battery pack structure shown in Figure 11;

[0036] Figure 13 is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of part C in the battery pack structure shown in Figure 11;

[0037] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of a battery pack structure according to another embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 15 is a side view of the battery pack structure shown in Figure 14;

[0039] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view along the AA direction in the battery pack structure shown in Figure 15;

[0040] Figure 17 is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of part B in the battery pack structure shown in Figure 16.

[0041] Reference numerals: 1. Power unit; 11. Inlet pipe; 12. First power element; 13. Third check valve; 14. Independent power supply; 2. Exhaust device; 21. Exhaust pipe; 211. First pipe; 212. Second pipe; 22. Disposable valve; 221. Main section; 2211. Main inlet; 2212. Main outlet; 222. Branch section; 213. Connection port; 26. Fourth check valve; 23. Separating element; 24. First channel; 25. Second channel; 251. First straight channel; 252. Transition channel; 253. Second straight channel; 31. Manifold; 32. First check valve; 33. Manifold branch; 34. Through hole; 35. Manifold; 321. First inclined plane; 4. Second check valve; 5. Seal; 51. Vent hole; 6. Fixed sleeve; 61. Stepped surface; 62. Second inclined surface; 100. Outer shell; 1001. Discharge port; 101. Single cell; 102. Explosion-proof valve. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0043] It should be noted that when a component is said to be "fixed to" another component, it can be directly attached to the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.

[0044] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein in the description of the invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0045] In one embodiment of a battery pack structure, as shown in Figures 1-7, the battery pack structure includes a housing 100, individual battery cells 101, a manifold 31, a first one-way valve 32, a venting device 2, a second one-way valve 4, and a power unit 1. The housing 100 has a vent outlet 1001. The individual battery cells 101 are disposed within the housing 100 and are equipped with an explosion-proof valve 102. The manifold 31 is disposed within the housing and is connected to the explosion-proof valve 102, and is also connected to the vent outlet 1001. The first one-way valve 32 is disposed within the housing and located between the individual battery cells 101 and the manifold 31. The flow direction of the first one-way valve 32 is from the explosion-proof valve 102 to the manifold, and the first one-way valve 32 is used to prevent high-temperature gas from the manifold 31 from entering the individual battery cells 101. The venting device 2 is located outside the housing 100 and at the outlet 1001. The venting device 2 is connected to the manifold 31. When the explosion-proof valve 102 explodes, the high-temperature gas discharged enters the manifold 31 through the first one-way valve 32 and is discharged from the battery pack through the venting device 2. The second one-way valve 4 prevents external fluids from entering the battery pack through the venting device 2. The power unit 1 drives the high-temperature gas in the manifold 31 towards the venting device 2.

[0046] In this embodiment, the explosion-proof valve 102 is connected through the manifold 31, which can be used to collect the high-temperature gas from the individual battery 101. Then, under the action of the power device 1, the high-temperature gas in the manifold 31 can be driven to the gas outlet device 2, and finally the high-temperature gas is discharged through the gas outlet device 2. This prevents the high-temperature gas from accumulating in the battery pack and solves the technical problem of high-temperature gas accumulating in the battery pack when the existing battery pack experiences thermal runaway.

[0047] It is understandable that the first one-way valve 32, the explosion-proof valve 102, and the second one-way valve 4 all have a sealing function. The explosion-proof valve 102 is a valve body structure installed on the single cell 101. It can be a sheet-like structure. By setting grooves on the sheet-like structure, the valve body structure becomes a weak point on the single cell 101. In this way, the high-temperature gas generated during thermal runaway will force open the explosion-proof valve 102 and enter the manifold 31.

[0048] Additionally, it should be noted that the position of the second one-way valve 4 is not fixed. It can be set at the outlet 1001, on the gas outlet device 2, or on the manifold 31, in order to prevent gas from entering the battery pack.

[0049] In one embodiment of the battery pack structure, as shown in FIG1, the power unit 1 is disposed inside the outer casing 100, and the outer casing 100 has an inlet that is connected to the outside of the battery pack. The power unit 1 is connected to the inlet and the manifold 31 respectively. The power unit 1 can introduce gas from the outside of the battery pack to the manifold 31 through the inlet to drive the high-temperature gas to move toward the gas outlet 2.

[0050] In this embodiment, the power device 1 drives the high-temperature gas to move by blowing air, which forms an airflow by introducing gas from the outside to drive the high-temperature gas to move.

[0051] In one embodiment of the battery pack structure, as shown in FIG3, the power unit 1 includes an intake pipe 11, a third one-way valve 13 and a first power element 12. One end of the intake pipe 11 is connected to the inlet and the other end is connected to the manifold 31. The first power element 12 is disposed inside the intake pipe 11. The third one-way valve 13 is disposed inside the intake pipe 11. The flow direction of the third one-way valve 13 is from the inlet to the manifold 31.

[0052] In this embodiment, when the third one-way valve 13 is closed, it can prevent gas from entering the battery pack from the inlet and is one-way. It can also prevent high-temperature gas from being ejected from the air inlet pipe 11 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery pack.

[0053] Specifically, in conjunction with the preceding embodiments, the first one-way valve 32 can be a solenoid valve or a mechanical valve, etc. The mechanical valve can be, for example, a spring-loaded mechanical valve that relies on pressure balancing. A spring-loaded mechanical valve includes a valve body and an elastic element connected to the valve body. The elastic force of the elastic element keeps the valve body in a closed state. When the air pressure is greater than the elastic force of the elastic element, the valve body is opened. When the air pressure is less than the elastic force of the elastic element, the valve body automatically closes.

[0054] The second check valve 4 can also be a solenoid valve or the aforementioned mechanical valve, etc. The third check valve 13 can also be a solenoid valve or the aforementioned mechanical valve, etc.

[0055] The first power component 12 can be a fan, etc.

[0056] When the three check valves mentioned above are solenoid valves, they can be activated by a unified control system. When the three check valves mentioned above are mechanical valves, since the invention is applied to situations where high-temperature gas is generated during thermal runaway of the battery pack, resulting in increased internal pressure, a pressure-balancing mechanical valve can be selected that opens when the pressure increases and returns to its original position when the pressure decreases, allowing for multiple uses. Furthermore, preferably, since the third check valve 13 is located away from the high-temperature gas and is mainly used to draw air from the outside into the battery pack, it is preferably a solenoid valve.

[0057] In one embodiment of the battery pack, as shown in Figures 4-7, the venting device 2 includes a venting pipe 21 located outside the housing 100 and connected to the manifold 31.

[0058] In this embodiment, it should be noted that the air outlet pipe 21 and the outlet 1001 need to be sealed. The air outlet pipe 21 can be connected to the outer shell 100 through a structure such as a mounting base, and then sealed by a sealing ring.

[0059] In one embodiment of the battery pack structure, as shown in FIG4, the venting device 2 further includes a disposable valve 22, which is disposed at the end of the venting pipe 21 opposite to the outlet 1001. The disposable valve 22, disposed in the venting device 2, can have the same structure as the explosion-proof valve 102, being a sheet-like structure. Similarly, the disposable valve 22 can further improve the sealing performance of the venting pipe 21.

[0060] In one embodiment of the battery pack structure, the power unit 1 may further include a second power element, which is connected to the air outlet device 2. The second power element is capable of driving high-temperature gas toward the air outlet device 2 by means of air extraction.

[0061] In this embodiment, specifically, the second power element can be a vacuum device or an exhaust fan, connected to the air outlet device 2. The activation of the second power element can draw out the high-temperature gas in the manifold 31 and discharge it outside the battery pack.

[0062] It should be noted that the first and second power components can be used individually or in combination. Using them in combination is more effective in improving the efficiency of high-temperature gas exhaust.

[0063] In one embodiment of the battery pack structure, an independent power supply is also included, which supplies power to the power unit and / or each solenoid valve. The independent power supply may be located inside or outside the battery pack.

[0064] In one embodiment of the battery pack structure, as shown in FIG4, the vent pipe 21 includes a first pipe 211 and a second pipe 212 that are detachably connected. The first pipe 211 is connected to the outlet 1001. A one-time valve 22 is provided at the end of the second pipe 212 that is away from the first pipe 211 to further improve the sealing performance of the vent device and prevent external gas or liquid from entering the battery pack through the vent device.

[0065] In this embodiment, by making the first tube 211 and the second tube 212 detachable, the second tube 212 can be easily replaced, thus replacing the disposable valve 22 inside the second tube 212, which is convenient for mass production. Specifically, the detachable connection between the first tube 211 and the second tube 212 can be a threaded connection, and a sealing ring needs to be installed to achieve a seal.

[0066] Specifically, the first tube 211 can be fixed to the outer wall of the battery pack by means of bolts, screws, etc., and is also sealed with a sealing ring.

[0067] In this embodiment, referring to FIG5, a second check valve 4 may be provided between the outlet 1001 and the first pipe 211. Of course, the second check valve 4 may also be provided inside the first pipe 211 or the second pipe 212.

[0068] In one embodiment of the battery pack structure, as shown in Figures 1, 2, and 6, a plurality of individual batteries 101 are arranged in two rows with spacing between them. A busbar 31 is disposed between the two rows of individual batteries 101. An explosion-proof valve 102 of each individual battery 101 is connected to the busbar 31. A first one-way valve 32 is disposed between each individual battery 101 and the busbar 31. The first one-way valve 32 can prevent high-temperature gas in the busbar 31 from returning to the individual battery 101. In this way, the high-temperature gas emitted from an exploded individual battery will not affect other individual batteries.

[0069] In this embodiment, by dividing the individual battery 101 into two rows, the manifold 31 can be made into a straight pipe structure, which has the shortest path and simple layout. Furthermore, the manifold 31 can be set between the air intake device 1 and the air outlet device 2, which can better bear the blowing force of the air intake device 1 and further improve the efficiency of high temperature gas discharge.

[0070] In one embodiment of the battery pack structure, the explosion-proof valve 102 is connected to the manifold 31 via the manifold branch 33.

[0071] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, in this embodiment, the explosion-proof valve 102 is disposed on the top surface and / or bottom surface of the individual battery 101. At this time, the two are connected by a U-shaped busbar 33. When connected by the U-shaped busbar 33, two opposing individual batteries 101 in the two rows can share a first one-way valve 32.

[0072] In another embodiment, the explosion-proof valve 102 is disposed on the side of the individual battery 101 near the manifold 31, and the explosion-proof valve 102 is disposed opposite to the manifold 31. In this case, the explosion-proof valve 102 and the manifold 31 can be connected by a straight manifold branch 33. Referring to FIG3, in this embodiment, the side of the manifold 31 facing the explosion-proof valve 102 of the individual battery 101 has through holes corresponding to the individual batteries 101, and a first one-way valve 32 is disposed in each through hole.

[0073] Referring to Figure 9, in one embodiment, the air outlet device 2 includes an air outlet pipe 21, a fourth one-way valve 26, a separating element 23, and an air blowing element. The air outlet pipe 21 includes a main section 221 and a branch section 222 connected together, with a connection port 213 at the junction of the main section 221 and the branch section 222. The main section 221 has a main inlet 2211 and a main outlet 2212. The fourth one-way valve 26 is connected to the inner wall of the main section 221 and is located between the main outlet 2212 and the connection port 213. The flow direction of the fourth one-way valve 26 is from the main inlet 2211 to the main outlet 2212. The separating element 23 is connected to the inner wall of the main section 221 and is located between the fourth one-way valve 26 and the main inlet 2211. The separating element 23 divides the internal space of the main section 221 into a first channel 24 and a second channel 25, and the connection port 213 communicates with the second channel 25. The blowing element is connected to the branch section 222 and is used to blow air toward the second channel 25 through the branch section 222.

[0074] In this embodiment, an air blowing element is provided. When applied to a structure such as a battery pack, firstly, the main road section 221 itself can receive the pressure when the battery pack goes out of control, thereby applying pressure to the fourth one-way valve 26. Secondly, through the air blowing action of the air blowing element, the two work together to form a combined force to open the fourth one-way valve 26, thereby solving the technical problem that the existing fourth one-way valve 26 is difficult to open.

[0075] In addition, by setting the separator element 23, the first channel 24 and the second channel 25 can be prevented from interfering with each other. When the first channel 24 is used to supply non-pure gas, the fluid in the first channel 24 can also be prevented from entering the second channel 25 and the branch section 222. For example, when applied to a battery pack, it can prevent high-temperature gas from entering the second channel 25 and the branch section 222.

[0076] Specifically, the fourth one-way valve 26 can be a solenoid valve or a mechanical valve, etc. A solenoid valve allows for convenient control, while a mechanical valve can be, for example, a pressure-balanced spring-loaded mechanical valve. A spring-loaded mechanical valve includes a valve body and an elastic element connected to the valve body. The elastic force of the elastic element keeps the valve body in a closed state. When the air pressure is greater than the elastic force of the elastic element, the valve body is opened; when the air pressure is less than the elastic force of the elastic element, the valve body automatically closes.

[0077] The blowing element can be a hair dryer, etc.

[0078] Preferably, the extension direction of the main road section 221 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the branch road section 222.

[0079] In one embodiment of the air outlet device 2, the diameter of the second channel 25 near the connection port 213 is larger than the diameter of the channel near the fourth check valve 26.

[0080] In this embodiment, this design achieves the effect of first receiving the airflow from the blowing element and then guiding the airflow direction, so as to better guide it to the fourth one-way valve 26.

[0081] In a specific embodiment of the air outlet device 2, the second channel 25 includes a first straight channel 251, a transition channel 252 and a second straight channel 253 connected sequentially from the connection port 213 to the fourth one-way valve 26. The diameter of the channel opening of the first straight channel 251 is larger than that of the channel opening of the second straight channel 253. The diameter of the channel opening of the transition channel 252 gradually decreases from the first straight channel 251 to the second straight channel 253.

[0082] In this embodiment, the first straight channel 251 has a large opening diameter, which can better receive the airflow from the blowing element. Then, under the action of the transition channel 252, it is guided to the second straight channel 253. Finally, the fourth one-way valve 26 is better opened under the reduced diameter of the second straight channel 253.

[0083] In one embodiment of the air outlet device 2, the diameter of the second channel 25 gradually decreases from the connection port 213 to the main inlet 2211. One end of the separating element 23 is connected to and closed by the inner wall of the main channel section 221, and the other end abuts against the fourth check valve 26, so that one end of the second channel 25 is closed and the other end outlet is opposite to the fourth check valve 26.

[0084] In this embodiment, the second channel 25 is a structure with one end open and the other closed. By closing one end, airflow loss can be reduced, so that after the blowing element continuously blows air, the space near the closed end will not continuously disperse the airflow, allowing the airflow to be better guided to the open end, further enhancing its role in assisting to open the fourth one-way valve 26. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the diameter of the second channel 25 gradually decreases from the connection port 213 to the main body inlet 2211. Combined with the diameter settings of the first straight channel 251, transition channel 252, and second straight channel 253 in the previous embodiment, it can form a second channel 25 with a gradually increasing diameter, maintaining a large diameter for a transition, gradually decreasing in diameter, and finally maintaining a small diameter. This is the Wadal tube structure in Figure 4. Through this design, the shape of the second channel 25 can better guide the airflow of the blowing element to the fourth one-way valve 26.

[0085] Preferably, the battery pack also includes a monitoring element that is communicatively connected to the air blowing element to monitor the status of the explosion-proof valve 102 so that the air blowing element can be activated and blow air toward the branch pipe 222 when the explosion-proof valve 102 is open.

[0086] Referring to Figure 10, in this embodiment, the side of the manifold 31 facing the explosion-proof valve 102 of the individual battery 101 has through holes 34 corresponding to the individual batteries 101, and a first one-way valve 32 is respectively installed in each through hole 34. When the explosion-proof valve 102 is installed on the side of the individual battery 101 near the manifold 31, the explosion-proof valve 102 can also be connected to the manifold 31 through a sealing element 5. Specifically, the sealing element 5 is a high-temperature resistant sealing ring. The sealing element 5 can seal the space between the individual battery 101 and the manifold 31, so that the ejected material after the explosion-proof valve 102 ruptures will not flow out from the seal between the individual battery 101 and the manifold 31.

[0087] In one embodiment, each individual battery cell 101 is connected to the manifold 31 through a sealing element 5. Each sealing element 5 is provided in correspondence with each explosion-proof valve 102. Each sealing element 5 is provided with a vent hole 51 that is provided in correspondence with each explosion-proof valve 102. Each sealing element 5 is provided with a first side and a second side that is provided opposite to the first side. The first side is connected to the individual battery cell 101 and the second side is connected to the manifold 31.

[0088] In another embodiment, multiple individual batteries 101 are arranged sequentially on one side of the busbar 31 to form a battery pack. A sealing member 5 is disposed between the battery pack and the busbar 31. The sealing member has a first side and a second side disposed opposite to the first side. The first side is connected to the battery pack and the second side is connected to the busbar 31. The sealing member 5 is provided with multiple vent holes 51 that correspond one-to-one with each explosion-proof valve 102.

[0089] Referring to Figures 11-13, in this embodiment, the diameter of the manifold 33 gradually decreases from the end near the explosion-proof valve 102 to the end near the manifold 31. This allows the manifold 33 to receive the ejected material from the explosion-proof valve 102 to the maximum extent possible after the valve 102 ruptures, thereby accelerating the flow of the ejected material into the manifold 33.

[0090] In one embodiment, the battery pack structure further includes a first seal, which is disposed between the busbar 33 and the explosion-proof valve 102 and is used to seal the connection between the busbar 33 and the explosion-proof valve 102. Specifically, the first seal can be a high-temperature sealing ring. By providing the first seal, the busbar 33 can be sealed with the explosion-proof valve 102 to prevent the leakage of ejected material.

[0091] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG13, a manifold 35 is also included. Two opposing manifold branches 33 are connected to the manifold 31 through the manifold 35, and a first one-way valve 32 is provided on the manifold 35. By providing the manifold 35, the opposing manifold branches 33 are connected to the manifold 35, which can save the area occupied by the manifold branches 33 on the manifold 31.

[0092] In addition, the confluence branch 33 is bow-shaped, so that the ejected material in one confluence branch 33 flows into the confluence pipe 31 through the confluence pipe 35, and does not flow into the other confluence branch 33.

[0093] In this embodiment, the battery pack structure further includes a second seal, which is disposed between the manifold 35 and the manifold 31 and is used to seal the connection between the manifold 35 and the manifold 31. Specifically, the second seal can be a high-temperature resistant sealing ring. The second sealing ring can seal the manifold 35 and the manifold 31, thereby preventing the ejected material in the manifold 35 from flowing into the battery pack.

[0094] Referring to Figures 14-17, the battery pack structure also includes a fixing sleeve 6, which is fitted around the explosion-proof valve 102. One end of the fixing sleeve 6 is connected to the housing of the individual battery 101, and the other end is connected to the busbar branch 33. The fixing sleeve 6 has a through hole, which provides a protruding space after the explosion-proof valve 102 explodes, allowing gas to escape normally without obstruction and improving safety.

[0095] Referring to Figure 17, the explosion-proof valve 102 can be installed in several ways:

[0096] In one embodiment, the inner wall of the through hole of the fixing sleeve 6 has a stepped surface 61, and the explosion-proof valve 102 is installed on the stepped surface 61. Specifically, the explosion-proof valve 102 is fixed on the stepped surface 61, so that the explosion-proof valve 102 can be fixed.

[0097] In another embodiment, the explosion-proof valve 102 is installed on the wall of the explosion-proof valve mounting hole. Specifically, the explosion-proof valve 102 is fixed to the wall of the mounting hole, thus ensuring its stability.

[0098] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 17, 18, and 19, the fixing sleeve 6 and the housing of the single battery cell 101 have multiple connection methods:

[0099] In one embodiment, the fixing sleeve 6 is integrally formed with the housing.

[0100] In another embodiment, the fixing sleeve 6 is formed separately from the housing.

[0101] The battery pack structure of the present invention can be applied to new energy vehicles. A gas exhaust pipe can be added to the new energy vehicle. The gas exhaust pipe 21 of the gas exhaust device 2 is connected to the gas exhaust pipe. The gas exhaust pipe is used to exhaust the high-temperature gas generated by thermal runaway toward the rear of the vehicle.

[0102] This invention also relates to a battery pack thermal runaway control method, as shown in Figure 8, applied to the battery pack in the previous embodiment. The control method includes the following steps:

[0103] S10. Monitor the status of explosion-proof valve 102.

[0104] S20. When the explosion-proof valve 102 is opened, the high-temperature gas discharged when the explosion-proof valve 102 explodes enters the manifold 32 through the first one-way valve 31 and is discharged from the battery pack through the venting device 2; at the same time, the power unit 1 drives the high-temperature gas in the manifold 32 to move towards the venting device 2. When the explosion-proof valve 102 is not open, it indicates that the individual battery is in normal working condition. At this time, the power unit 1 is in the closed state, and the battery pack structure is in the closed state.

[0105] The control method of this embodiment can respond more quickly. When the explosion-proof valve 102 is in the open state, it can be determined that the thermal runaway state is reached. The high-temperature gas will enter the manifold 31 through the first one-way valve 31. At this time, the power unit 1 can be opened to discharge the high-temperature gas. It can respond quickly and discharge the high-temperature gas in time, thereby solving the technical problem of high-temperature gas accumulating in the battery pack when the existing battery pack is in thermal runaway.

Claims

1. A battery pack structure, characterized in that, include: The outer casing has a drain outlet. A single battery is disposed inside the housing, and an explosion-proof valve is provided on the single battery. A manifold is disposed inside the housing, the manifold is connected to the explosion-proof valve, and the manifold is connected to the discharge port; A first one-way valve is disposed inside the housing and located between the single cell and the manifold. The flow direction of the first one-way valve is from the explosion-proof valve to the manifold. A venting device is provided outside the housing and located at the outlet. The venting device is connected to the manifold. When the explosion-proof valve explodes, the high-temperature gas discharged enters the manifold through the first one-way valve and is discharged from the battery pack through the venting device. The second one-way valve is used to prevent fluid from the outside of the battery pack from entering the battery pack through the venting device; as well as A power unit is used to drive the high-temperature gas in the manifold to move toward the gas outlet device.

2. The battery pack structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power unit is disposed inside the housing, and the housing has an inlet. The power unit is connected to the inlet and the manifold, respectively. The power unit can introduce gas from the outside of the battery pack into the manifold through the inlet to drive the high-temperature gas to move toward the gas outlet.

3. The battery pack structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The power unit includes an intake pipe, a first power element, and a third one-way valve. One end of the intake pipe is connected to the inlet, and the other end is connected to the manifold. The first power element is disposed inside the intake pipe, and the third one-way valve is disposed inside the intake pipe. The flow direction of the third one-way valve is from the inlet to the manifold.

4. The battery pack structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The power unit also includes a second power element, which is connected to the gas outlet device. The second power element can drive the high-temperature gas toward the gas outlet device by pumping air.

5. The battery pack structure according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The air outlet device includes an air outlet pipe located outside the outer casing and connected to the manifold.

6. The battery pack structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, The exhaust pipe includes a main section and a branch section that are connected to each other. The connection between the main section and the branch section is a connection port. The main section has a main inlet and a main outlet. The air outlet device also includes: A fourth one-way valve is connected to the inner wall of the main road section and located between the main outlet and the connection port. The flow direction of the fourth one-way valve is from the main inlet to the main outlet. A separating element is connected to the inner wall of the main road section and located between the fourth one-way valve and the main inlet. The separating element divides the internal space of the main road section into a first channel and a second channel, and the connecting port communicates with the second channel. And an air blowing element, connected to the branch section, for blowing air toward the second channel through the branch section.

7. The battery pack structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The manifold is provided with a through hole corresponding to the single battery cell. The first one-way valve is provided in the through hole. A sealing element is provided between the through hole and the explosion-proof valve. The sealing element has a vent hole. The through hole and the explosion-proof valve are respectively connected to the vent hole.

8. The battery pack structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, Multiple individual batteries are arranged sequentially on one side of the busbar channel to form a battery pack. The sealing member has a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. The first side is connected to the battery pack, and the second side is connected to the busbar channel. The sealing member has multiple vent holes, and each vent hole corresponds to one of the explosion-proof valves.

9. The battery pack structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, The number of individual batteries is multiple, the number of sealing elements is multiple, and each sealing element is configured in a one-to-one correspondence with each explosion-proof valve.

10. The battery pack structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a manifold branch, one end of which is connected to the explosion-proof valve, and the other end of which is connected to the manifold channel.

11. The battery pack structure according to claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes a fixing sleeve, which is placed around the explosion-proof valve. One end of the fixing sleeve is connected to the housing of the single battery cell, and the other end of the fixing sleeve is connected to the busbar.

12. The battery pack structure according to claim 11, characterized in that, The end of the busbar near the fixed sleeve is provided with a first inclined surface, and the end of the fixed sleeve near the busbar is provided with a second inclined surface, with the first inclined surface abutting against the second inclined surface.

13. The battery pack structure according to claim 11, characterized in that, The fixing sleeve is integrally formed with the housing, or the fixing sleeve is separately formed from the housing.

14. A method for controlling thermal runaway in a battery pack, characterized in that, Applied to the battery pack structure according to any one of claims 1-13, the control method includes the following steps: Monitor the status of explosion-proof valves; When the explosion-proof valve is opened, the high-temperature gas discharged when the explosion-proof valve explodes enters the manifold through the first one-way valve and is discharged from the battery pack structure through the gas outlet device; at the same time, the power device drives the high-temperature gas in the manifold to move toward the gas outlet device.

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