Battery Cell Diverter Assembly for Thermal Ejecta Venting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery systems face challenges in managing uncontrolled thermal propagation events, where excessive heat generation can lead to the release of high-temperature gases and molten materials, posing risks to neighboring cells and components due to insufficient thermal management.
Innovation Solution
The integration of diverter assemblies within battery modules and cells that divert the flow of ejecta, such as high-temperature gases and particulate, into a controlled exhaust volume, using moveable and fixed diverter bodies to redirect the flow away from critical components and incorporate ambient air to mitigate thermal stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If thermal management system cooling capability is increased, then heat dissipation is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the thermal propagation protection function from the main thermal management system by implementing a separate, passive diverter assembly. This diverter assembly is specifically designed to redirect ejecta during thermal events away from critical components, rather than relying solely on the active thermal management system to prevent all thermal issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The diverter assembly is pre-positioned within the battery housing to provide immediate protection during thermal propagation events. The design includes pre-configured flow paths and diversion structures that are ready to redirect hot gases and ejecta before they can damage critical components, eliminating the need for complex active response systems.
2Speed
If vent opening size is increased to release ejecta faster, then thermal propagation speed increases, but more harmful ejecta is released into the battery system
Solution Approach 1:
The diverter assembly acts as an intermediary element between the vent opening and the battery components. It intercepts the ejecta flow exiting the vent opening and redirects it along a controlled path away from critical components. This mediator approach allows the vent opening to remain relatively large for fast ejecta release while preventing the harmful effects from reaching vulnerable areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The diverter assembly introduces a spatial dimension to ejecta management by creating a three-dimensional flow path that redirects ejecta laterally or vertically away from critical components. Instead of simply enlarging the vent opening in two dimensions, the solution adds a directional control element that utilizes the third dimension to manage ejecta trajectory.
3Reliability
If diverter assembly is added to redirect ejecta, then thermal protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diverter assembly is integrated with existing battery housing structures and venting systems rather than being a completely separate component. The design merges the diverter function with the battery module housing or tray assembly, utilizing available structural elements to provide thermal protection without adding significant component count or complexity to the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The diverter assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it redirects ejecta during thermal events, provides structural support within the battery housing, and maintains normal airflow paths during non-thermal operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components and simplifies the overall system architecture.
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 diverter assemblies effectively reduce thermal stress on adjacent components by diverting ejecta into a controlled direction, minimizing damage and enhancing safety by entraining cold air with the flow to manage thermal propagation events.
Implementation Method 1
The diverter assembly is arranged relative to the vent opening and includes one or more diverter bodies configured, in response to a thermal propagation event occurring in the battery module or battery cell(s), to divert ejecta from the battery cavity into the exhaust volume
Implementation Method 2
A respective vent cover is disposed within each of the vent openings, with the vent cover being configured to open in response to the temperature-elevated pressure in the battery module or cell indicative of an active thermal propagation event occurring therewithin
Implementation Method 3
Embodiments of the diverter assembly as contemplated herein also facilitate entrainment of relatively cold air in the battery pack with the diverted ejecta flow
Data Source
AI summary
A battery system for a motor vehicle or another electrical system includes a battery cover, one or more battery cells, and a diverter assembly. The cells define a battery cavity in fluid communication with a corresponding vent opening. An air gap may be defined in an exhaust volume within the battery system. The diverter assembly includes a diverter body arranged relative to the vent openings. The diverter body is moveable or stationary. In response to a thermal propagation event occurring in the module or at least one of the battery cells, each diverter body diverts a high-temperature flow of ejecta from the cavity into an exhaust volume in a predetermined flow direction when the flow of ejecta passes through the vent opening. The diverter assembly may include a support member connected to the diverter body and connectable to the battery cell.