Battery Module Flame Barrier for Thermal Runaway Venting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional battery modules suffer from heat concentration and lack of airflow, leading to potential explosions and flame propagation, which can cause thermal runaway and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A battery module with a flame propagation prevention member that changes shape during a thermal event to block gaps and guide flames or gases into a preset direction, incorporating features like a convection heat barrier and extinguishing agent to prevent chain reactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a refractory pad is tightly bonded to the module case to isolate battery cells, then flame propagation is prevented, but air flow is blocked causing heat concentration
Solution Approach 1:
The flame propagation prevention member transitions from a non-blocking state during normal operation to a blocking state during thermal events. The member is positioned to allow air flow under normal conditions but moves to block the gap between battery cells when thermal runaway occurs, dynamically adapting to system conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The position and configuration of the flame propagation prevention member changes based on thermal conditions. During normal operation, the member maintains a position that allows air circulation; during thermal events, it shifts to block flame propagation paths, changing the physical parameters of the system based on operating conditions.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the flame propagation prevention member blocks the gap between module case and battery cells, then flame spread is prevented, but air flow is restricted causing heat concentration
Solution Approach 1:
The flame propagation prevention member is designed to dynamically adjust its position based on thermal conditions. During normal operation, it allows air flow through the battery module. When thermal runaway occurs, it moves to block the gap between the module case and battery cells, preventing flame spread only when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The flame propagation prevention member automatically responds to thermal events without external control. When temperature rises indicating thermal runaway, the member self-activates to block the gap, using the thermal condition itself as the trigger for its protective action.
3Stability of the object's composition
If air flow is blocked by the refractory pad, then cell isolation is improved, but thermal equilibrium cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The flame propagation prevention member provides dynamic cell isolation that adapts to operational needs. During normal operation, it maintains a position that allows air flow for thermal equilibrium. When thermal events occur, it activates to isolate cells, providing isolation stability only when required rather than continuously blocking air flow.
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
Ensures uniform thermal distribution, prevents flame spread, and discharges hazardous materials in a controlled manner, thereby preventing thermal runaway.
Implementation Method 1
the flame propagation prevention member is configured to change its shape when a thermal event occurs so as to block a gap formed between the module case and the battery cells
Implementation Method 2
the flame propagation prevention member may be configured to change its shape when a thermal event occurs
Implementation Method 3
incorporating features like a convection heat barrier
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are a battery module, a battery pack, and a vehicle. A battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a plurality of battery cells; a module case in which the plurality of battery cells are stored; and a flame propagation prevention member disposed between the plurality of battery cells inside the module case, and the flame propagation prevention member may be configured to change its shape when a thermal event occurs so as to block a gap formed between the module case and the battery cells.