Battery Arc Detection via Homogeneous Acoustic Impedance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting electric arcs in high-power electrochemical accumulator batteries, such as those used in hybrid and electric vehicles, are inadequate due to low impedance that attenuates voltage signatures, complex protective housings, and high costs associated with multiple sensors, leading to unreliable and costly detection solutions.
Innovation Solution
A DC electrical power supply system with a filling medium of homogeneous acoustic impedance inside the battery housing allows for ultrasound detection of electric arcs, using sensors with a wide bandwidth and directional capabilities to effectively filter external disturbances and locate arcs within the battery, combined with electromagnetic sensors for enhanced reliability and reduced false alarms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If acoustic sensors are distributed at various places in the vehicle to detect arcs, then arc detection coverage is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection functions (arc detection, capacity measurement, humidity sensing) into a single ultrasound sensor positioned outside the battery housing. The sensor simultaneously performs arc detection and battery characterization functions, eliminating the need for multiple distributed sensors while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasound sensor serves multiple purposes: detecting electric arcs through acoustic emission, measuring battery capacity through ultrasonic response analysis, and monitoring humidity levels. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for separate specialized sensors for each function, reducing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If voltage-based arc detection methods are used, then detection simplicity is improved, but detection reliability deteriorates due to low impedance attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical measurement methods (voltage-based detection) with acoustic measurement methods (ultrasound detection). Instead of measuring electrical parameters that are attenuated by low impedance, the system uses acoustic sensors to detect arc-induced sound waves, providing reliable detection without being affected by electrical impedance issues.
3Reliability
If multiple sensors are used for comprehensive arc detection, then detection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges arc detection functionality with existing battery monitoring systems by using a single ultrasound sensor that performs both arc detection and battery capacity measurement. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate sensor systems, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable arc detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasound sensor is designed to perform multiple functions including arc detection, capacity measurement, and humidity monitoring. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve comprehensive monitoring with a single sensor, avoiding the high costs associated with deploying multiple specialized sensors throughout the battery system.
4Reliability
If acoustic sensors are placed outside the protective housing, then sensor protection against electrolyte corrosion is improved, but arc detection sensitivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the protective housing itself as an acoustic transmission medium rather than a barrier. The housing material is selected to have good acoustic transmission properties, allowing ultrasonic waves generated by arcs inside the battery to pass through the housing walls to the external sensor. This intermediary approach maintains both sensor protection and detection sensitivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables precise and reliable detection of electric arcs within the battery, reducing the risk of fires and ensuring early detection, even for arcs masked by other components, while minimizing false alarms and maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a filling medium having a homogeneous acoustic impedance which forms a continuous acoustic link between these interconnection elements and an ultrasound acoustic sensor
Implementation Method 2
the occurrence of electric arcs in a DC electrical power supply source... detect the occurrence of arcs
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a DC electrical power supply source includinga protective housing andelectrical energy storage devices disposed in the protective housing.The storage devices are connected electrically in series by way of interconnection elements. There isan acoustic sensor configured to measure ultrasounds anda filling medium disposed in the housing.The filling medium exhibits a homogeneous acoustic impedance and forms a continuous acoustic link between the interconnection elements and the acoustic sensor.