Battery Module Cell Isolation and Discharge for Thermal Runaway

The patent divides the battery module into multiple independent cell groups, where each group contains single cells connected in parallel. These cell groups are then connected in series to achieve the desired total capacity. This segmentation isolates the heat propagation risk within each group while maintaining high capacity through series connection of groups, directly resolving the contradiction between increasing capacity and reducing heat propagation risk.

The patent introduces a current collector as an intermediary component between adjacent single cells within a cell group. This current collector serves as a thermal management intermediary that facilitates heat dissipation from individual cells to the collector, preventing direct heat propagation between adjacent cells while maintaining electrical connection. This intermediary structure enables safe parallel connection of cells to increase capacity.

The patent employs temperature-responsive materials (such as shape memory alloys or phase change materials) integrated into the current collector or cell structure that automatically change their electrical or mechanical properties at specific temperature thresholds. This self-service mechanism enables automatic disconnection or thermal management without requiring external sensors, controllers, or complex circuit breaker mechanisms, thereby improving thermal safety while minimizing device complexity.

The patent utilizes materials whose electrical conductivity or mechanical state changes in response to temperature variations. For example, the current collector or cell connectors are made of materials that undergo phase transitions or resistance changes at critical temperatures, automatically altering the circuit state to prevent thermal runaway. This parameter-based approach provides thermal protection through material properties rather than complex mechanical or electronic control systems.