Battery Module Connector Sealing Against Flame Propagation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery modules face issues with flames spreading outside due to the breakdown of hermetic sealing structures at the connector and case coupling during thermal events, causing damage and potential fire propagation.
Innovation Solution
A battery module design incorporating a flame propagation prevention member, such as a SUS plate, between the connector bodies to maintain a hermetic seal, using heat-resistant materials to prevent flames from escaping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a connector is used to transmit data in the battery module, then data transmission capability is improved, but the hermetic sealing structure breaks down during thermal events causing flames to spread
Solution Approach 1:
A flame propagation prevention member is introduced as an intermediary component between the connector bodies. This member includes a flame arrestor that blocks flame propagation while allowing the connector to maintain its data transmission function. The flame arrestor acts as a mediator that permits normal operation but prevents harmful flame spread during thermal events.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separate components including a first body, a flame propagation prevention member, and a second body. This segmentation allows the flame propagation prevention member to be specifically designed with flame arrestor functionality while the other parts maintain electrical connection capabilities, resolving the conflict between data transmission and flame containment.
2Ease of manufacture
If common injection molded connectors are used, then manufacturing ease is improved, but the connectors melt during thermal events causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs composite construction by combining a flame propagation prevention member made of heat-resistant material with conventional connector components. This composite approach allows the overall assembly to achieve high-temperature resistance while maintaining the manufacturing advantages of using standard injection molded parts for the non-critical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The flame propagation prevention member serves as a protective intermediary that shields the injection molded connector bodies from direct exposure to flames and extreme temperatures. This mediator allows the use of easily manufactured plastic connectors while preventing them from melting during thermal events.
3Ease of operation
If the hermetic sealing structure is simplified for ease of assembly, then assembly ease is improved, but flames can spread outside the battery module during thermal events
Solution Approach 1:
The flame propagation prevention member is designed as a self-contained unit that can be easily coupled with the connector bodies through simple fastening holes and fastener members. This intermediary component provides robust flame blocking capability without requiring complex assembly procedures, thus maintaining ease of operation while preventing flame spread.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a flame propagation prevention member is added to the connector, then flame spread prevention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flame propagation prevention member is segmented into functional zones including a flame arrestor section and coupling sections with fastening holes. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall design modular and manageable, reducing the perceived complexity despite the added functionality.
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
The hermetic sealing structure is maintained, preventing flames from spreading outside the battery module, thereby protecting adjacent modules and ensuring safety.
Implementation Method 1
the flame propagation prevention member may include a plate made of a material having heat resistance and resistance to fire
Implementation Method 2
the flame propagation prevention member may include a plate made of a material having heat resistance and resistance to fire
Implementation Method 3
A battery module design incorporating a flame propagation prevention member, such as a SUS plate, between the connector bodies to maintain a hermetic seal, using heat-resistant materials to prevent flames from escaping
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are a battery module and a battery pack and a vehicle comprising the same. The battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a battery cell stack including a plurality of stacked battery cells; a case in which the battery cell stack is received; and a connector coupled to the case and including a flame propagation prevention member.