Battery Module Vent Hole Cover for Directed Gas Discharge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery modules struggle with venting gas discharge, leading to heat accumulation and chain thermal runaway, causing damage to adjacent cells and modules.
Innovation Solution
A battery module with a vent hole and flexible cover that allows controlled gas discharge, featuring a vent hole cover with opening portions and support structures to manage pressure and directionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If battery modules are manufactured with densely stacked battery cells in a sealed metal case, then space utilization is improved, but venting gas discharge capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sealed metal case is segmented by introducing vent holes that penetrate through the case walls, dividing the previously monolithic sealed structure into a segmented structure that allows controlled gas passage while maintaining overall enclosure integrity and space utilization
Solution Approach 2:
A vent hole cover is introduced as an intermediary component that selectively controls gas discharge. The cover includes opening portions that can be opened by venting gas pressure, acting as a mediator between the sealed case structure and the external environment to enable controlled venting while maintaining sealing during normal operation
2Object-generated harmful factors
If vent holes are provided in the module case, then venting gas discharge capability is improved, but foreign substance entry risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vent hole cover transitions from a static closed state to a dynamic open state when venting gas pressure acts upon it. The opening portions are designed to remain closed during normal operation, preventing foreign substance entry, and automatically open when internal pressure from thermal runaway exceeds the holding force of the cover, enabling bidirectional pressure-responsive operation
Solution Approach 2:
The vent hole cover serves as an intermediary barrier that selectively permits gas egress while blocking foreign substance ingress under normal conditions. The cover's opening portions act as a controlled interface that only opens in response to internal pressure, mediating between the protected internal environment and the external environment
3Productivity
If multiple opening portions are provided in the vent hole cover, then venting gas discharge efficiency is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vent hole cover is segmented into multiple opening portions distributed across different surfaces of the module case. This segmentation allows venting gas to escape through multiple pathways simultaneously, increasing discharge efficiency and preventing localized pressure buildup, while each individual opening portion maintains a relatively simple structure
Solution Approach 2:
The vent hole cover with multiple opening portions provides multi-functional benefits: it enables venting gas discharge in multiple directions, prevents foreign substance entry through the closed cover structure, and maintains structural integrity. The same component performs multiple protective and venting functions without requiring additional separate systems
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
Prevents foreign substance entry, quickly discharges venting gas, reduces heat propagation, and prevents thermal runaway by directing high-pressure gas safely outside.
Implementation Method 1
the opening portions may include: lid portions configured to be in contact with the module case to close openings of vent holes and to be spaced apart from the module case when venting gas is generated to open the openings
Data Source
AI summary
A battery module includes a module case having an inner space surrounded by a plurality of surfaces to accommodate battery cells in the inner space and at least one vent hole provided on a first surface of the plurality of surfaces so as to lead to the inner space and a vent hole cover attached to the module case and configured to cover the at least one vent hole. The vent hole cover may include an opening portion provided in a portion of the vent hole cover corresponding to the at least one vent hole and configured to be opened by venting gas from the battery cells.