Battery Module Venting Structure to Limit Ignition Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional battery modules face issues with ignition continuity between adjacent modules due to the discharge of high-temperature heat, gas, and flame, which can damage adjacent cells and modules.
Innovation Solution
A battery module design featuring a venting part on the module frame that guides the discharge direction of gas and flame away from the first end plate to the second end plate, minimizing ignition continuity by creating a controlled discharge path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the end plates are sealed through welding to protect the battery cell stack, then the sealing performance is improved, but the discharge path of gas and flame becomes blocked causing ignition continuity between adjacent modules
Solution Approach 1:
The end plate is segmented into a sealed main body and a separate venting structure. The venting part includes a venting hole that provides a controlled discharge path for gas and flame, while the welded portions maintain sealing performance. This segmentation allows the end plate to simultaneously achieve both sealing and safe venting functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The venting part acts as an intermediary element between the sealed battery cell stack and the external environment. It provides a controlled interface that allows gas and flame to escape in a predetermined direction while preventing uncontrolled discharge that could cause ignition continuity between adjacent modules.
2Productivity
If the module frame is designed with minimal size and weight to improve integration, then the manufacturing efficiency is improved, but the structural strength to contain and guide discharge is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The module frame exhibits local quality differentiation where different regions have different structural characteristics. The frame includes reinforced portions at critical locations such as the venting part support areas and connection points, while other non-critical regions maintain minimal dimensions. This allows the frame to achieve both lightweight construction and sufficient structural strength for containing and guiding discharge.
3Ease of manufacture
If the venting part is formed by cutting open the module frame, then the manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the structural integrity of the frame is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The venting part is formed by preliminary cutting of the module frame during the manufacturing process. This cutting is performed in advance to create the venting hole and venting part structure, allowing for easy fabrication while the subsequent assembly and welding processes restore and maintain the structural integrity of the frame.
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 venting part effectively directs high-temperature heat, gas, and flame away from the first end plate, reducing damage to adjacent modules and maintaining the integrity of the battery pack.
Implementation Method 1
at least one edge of the at least one venting part is connected to the upper part of the module frame, and a remaining edge of the at least one venting part is formed by the upper part of the module frame that is cut open
Data Source
AI summary
Discussed is a battery module that may include a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, a module frame that houses the battery cell stack; and at least one venting part on an upper part of the module frame, wherein at least one edge of the at least one venting part may be connected to the upper part of the module frame, and a remaining edge of the at least one venting part may be formed by the upper part of the module frame that is cut open.