Quick-Release Battery Section Towing for Thermal Runaway
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy-duty vehicle battery systems pose a significant risk during thermal runaway, making it difficult and dangerous to tow or store damaged vehicles due to prolonged burning and potential reignition, which can result in loss of the vehicle and surrounding infrastructure damage.
Innovation Solution
A battery system with a quick-release mechanism and separate towing attachment points allows for swift detachment and removal of the battery section from the vehicle during emergencies, utilizing a hold-and-release mechanism that can be activated pyrotechnically or mechanically to reduce the time required for disconnection and facilitate safe towing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional connection methods are used to attach battery sections to the vehicle, then the battery section remains securely attached during normal operation, but the disconnection process becomes time-consuming and delays emergency response
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two independent parts: a hold-and-release mechanism for secure attachment during normal operation, and a separate towing attachment element for emergency removal. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing attachment element is pre-positioned and pre-configured on the battery section, ready for immediate use in emergency situations. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex disconnection procedures during emergencies, enabling rapid removal by simply detaching the towing mechanism.
2Productivity
If the hold-and-release mechanism and towing attachment are integrated at the same location, then the structure is simplified, but the towing device cannot be attached simultaneously with battery section release
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two independent parts: a hold-and-release mechanism for secure attachment during normal operation, and a separate towing attachment element for emergency removal. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing attachment element is positioned at a different spatial location than the hold-and-release mechanism, creating separate first and second points of connection. This spatial separation enables independent operation of attachment and towing functions, allowing simultaneous engagement of the towing device with the battery section during emergency release.
3Reliability
If battery sections are securely fastened to the vehicle chassis, then structural stability is maintained, but the battery section cannot be quickly removed in case of thermal runaway
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two independent parts: a hold-and-release mechanism for secure attachment during normal operation, and a separate towing attachment element for emergency removal. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from a static, permanent attachment to a dynamic, condition-based system. The hold-and-release mechanism provides secure attachment during normal operation but can be quickly released when needed, while the towing attachment element is ready to engage immediately for emergency removal, enabling the system to adapt its state based on operational conditions.
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
This solution increases the chances of saving the vehicle and cargo by enabling rapid disconnection and removal of the battery section, reducing the risk of further damage to the vehicle and surrounding infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
it may include a pyrotechnic fastener which may have an activation mechanism that burns or deflagrates on command
Implementation Method 2
the hold-and-release mechanism may be purely mechanical, wherein a part of it may be easily broken if a certain force is applied to the hold-and-release mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A battery system for a heavy-duty vehicle, comprising at least one battery section which comprises a plurality of traction battery packs, a hold-and-release mechanism for connecting the battery section to the vehicle at a first point of connection and for enabling quick-release of the battery section from the vehicle in case of emergency, a towing attachment element connected to the battery section and presenting a second point of connection for receiving a towing device for transporting the battery section away from the vehicle by towing, after the hold-and-release mechanism has released the battery section from the vehicle, wherein the first point of connection is different from the second point of connection. The invention also relates to a heavy-duty vehicle comprising such a battery system.