Battery Module Venting Channel for Cell Stack and Wiring Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery power modules are complex and prone to defects due to numerous plastic parts, which can contribute to combustible materials during thermal events, and lack efficient gas venting mechanisms that protect sensitive components from high-temperature gas emissions.
Innovation Solution
A venting channel with aligned apertures and secure wiring passages, made of metal and insulated materials, directs high-temperature gas away from sensitive components while securing the cell stack and guiding wiring, using removable or fixed attachment methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple plastic parts are used to mechanically fix the cell stack and manage wiring, then the battery module can achieve proper alignment and component positioning, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing defects may accumulate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate plastic parts (mechanical fixings, alignment features, wiring management components) into a single integrated venting channel structure. This consolidation maintains all necessary functions for cell stack positioning and wiring routing while eliminating the complexity of assembling multiple discrete parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The venting channel is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides gas venting pathways, mechanically secures the cell stack, routes wiring through integrated apertures, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality replaces what previously required several separate plastic components.
2Ease of operation
If multiple plastic parts are used in the power module, then proper mechanical fixation and wiring management can be achieved, but manufacturing defects and tolerance stacking may occur
Solution Approach 1:
By consolidating multiple plastic parts into a single venting channel component, the patent eliminates tolerance stacking that occurs when multiple parts are assembled. The integrated structure ensures consistent positioning and fixation without the cumulative effect of manufacturing tolerances from multiple discrete components.
3Ease of operation
If plastic parts are used for mechanical fixation and wiring management, then the battery module can be assembled with proper alignment, but combustible material is present during thermal runaway events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from plastic (combustible) to metal (non-combustible or fire-resistant). The venting channel is constructed from metal materials that maintain structural integrity during thermal runaway events, eliminating the combustible material present in plastic-based mechanical fixings and wiring management components.
4Reliability
If conventional venting arrangements are used without directed gas flow, then gas can be expelled from the module, but high-temperature gas may damage sensitive components
Solution Approach 1:
The venting channel incorporates multiple segmented venting apertures positioned at specific locations to create directed gas flow pathways. These apertures are strategically placed to channel hot gas away from sensitive electronic components and wiring, directing it toward safer expulsion paths through the module housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The venting channel acts as an intermediary structure between the battery cells and the module housing vent. It intercepts hot gas emissions from individual cells, redirects them through controlled pathways, and expels them away from sensitive components, thereby protecting the module from thermal damage.
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
Simplifies manufacturing, reduces defects, and effectively channels high-temperature gas emissions, protecting components and ensuring secure cell positioning and wiring integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the venting channel arranged to direct gas emitted from the cell vents towards a vent in the battery module housing
Implementation Method 2
The venting channel may comprise one or more tabs arranged to secure the venting channel to the battery module housing, such that the cell stack is held in position within the battery housing
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns a battery. More particularly, but not exclusively, this invention concerns a battery module comprising a battery module housing. A plurality of battery cells within the battery module housing comprise a cell vent configured to expel excess gas emitted from the battery cell. A venting channel comprises a plurality of venting apertures located aligned with the cell vents, and is arranged to direct gas emitted from the cell vents towards a vent in the battery module housing. The venting channel also secures the cell stack in position within the battery housing and comprises a plurality of wiring apertures. Battery module wiring passes through the wiring apertures and runs along the venting channel.