GB2621994A

GB2621994A - System for managing a build-up of thermal energy

Info

Publication number: GB2621994A
Application number: GB2212482.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Peter Glover James
Original assignee: Maritime Systems Ltd
Current assignee: Maritime Systems Ltd
Priority date: 2022-08-27
Filing date: 2022-08-27
Publication date: 2024-03-06
Also published as: GB202213897D0; GB202212482D0; GB2622111A

Abstract

A system 1 for managing build-up of thermal energy in a battery comprises a housing 2 enclosing an internal volume 3, in which one or more batteries 12a-e are arranged; an inlet 10 for fluid to flow into the internal volume; a valve (22, Fig 2) operable to control a flow of fluid through the inlet and into the internal volume; and an outlet 11 for fluid to flow out of the internal volume. In use, when the valve permits fluid to flow through the inlet and into the internal volume, the fluid flows over one or more external surfaces of one or more of the batteries before flowing out of the internal volume through the outlet. The system can be associated with at least one sensor (24, Fig 2), such as a temperature sensor, configured to detect a build-up of thermal energy within the housing. When an increase in temperature is detected, a controller (23, Fig 2) can open the valve to allow coolant fluid to flow into the housing. The fluid is preferably a liquid such as seawater, but may also be air. The system may be provided on a battery-powered vehicle such as a boat or aircraft.

Description

SYSTEM FOR MANAGING A BUILD-UP OF THERMAL ENERGY

This disclosure relates to a system for managing a build up of thermal energy in a battery. The disclosure also relates to vehicles and static structures comprising such a system for managing a build up of thermal energy in a battery.

Batteries are widely used in both domestic and vehicular applications. For example, it is known to power a boat or a car with only an electric powered motor. Such applications typically use one or more lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries as a power source, each Li-ion battery comprising one or more Li-ion battery cells.

Despite Li-ion batteries being highly effective, offering high energy density and power density they remain subject to various failure modes. One these failure modes is thermal runaway which takes place when a battery cell reaches a critical temperature. At this critical temperature the rate of thermal energy produced by electrochemical reactions within a battery cell of a Li-ion battery exceeds the rate of thermal energy dissipated to its surroundings. This triggers a runaway reaction as the increase in thermal energy within the cell increases rates of reaction within the cell, thereby increasing the rate of heat production. Nearby cells within the battery are subjected to the high temperatures of the overheating cell which may in turn initiate thermal runaway in these cells of the battery. In this way, thermal runaway may spread to all cells within a battery, ultimately resulting in fire or explosion of the battery as volatile gasses are released. This poses a significant safety risk to users of Li-ion batteries and can cause significant damage to surrounding equipment.

In the case of a boat, for example, thermal runaway of an onboard battery could lead to ignition of the boat, posing a significant danger to passengers and/or crew and resulting in a costly destruction of property.

Measures currently taken to limit thermal runaway events arc typically preventative.

For example, correct storage of batteries at appropriate temperature ranges as well as respecting lifetime and charging limitations of these devices can help to avert thermal runaway initiation. However, these measures are not completely effective and thermal runaway events may still occur, particularly in cases where cells have been damaged, e.g., during transport or use. Furthermore, these measures may not be appropriate for certain situations. For example, a very hot sunny day may cause a battery in a vehicle to exceed its maximum safe operating temperature.

Other methods employed rely on effectively managing thermal energy when thermal fluctuations do occur. Such methods may include the addition of a heat sink for effectively dissipating thermal energy or the use of flame retardant additives in electrolytes. These methods increase the critical temperature of batteries and may slow down the rate at which thermal runaway occurs, increasing the time available for shutdown of the battery or evacuation of the vehicle. However, these systems fail to completely eliminate thermal runaway which still poses a significant risk to health and safety and can result in the costly destruction of property.

A first aspect provides a system for managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery comprising: I5 a housing enclosing an internal volume, in which one or more batteries are arranged; an inlet for fluid to flow into the internal volume; an valve operable to control a flow of fluid through the inlet and into the internal volume; and an outlet for fluid to flow out of the internal volume; wherein, in use, when the valve permits fluid to flow through the inlet and into the internal volume, the fluid flows over one or more external surfaces of one or more of the batteries before flowing out of the internal volume through the outlet.

The valve may be an inlet valve and be disposed upstream of the internal volume. The valve may be an outlet valve and be disposed downstream of the internal volume.

As a result of the fluid flowing over one or more external surfaces of a given battery before flowing out of the internal volume through the outlet, thermal energy from the given battery may be absorbed into the fluid and removed from the proximity of the given battery.

Operation of the system may be able to manage a build-up of thermal energy resulting from thermal runaway in a battery cell within one or more of the batteries By managing the thermal energy in this way and removing it from the proximity of the battery or batteries, a battery suffering from thermal runaway may be able to burn without heating nearby structures to dangerous levels and starting a fire or causing other damage, e.g., warping of walls or melting of plastic protection.

Any number of batteries may be arranged within the internal volume.

One or more of the batteries, e.g. each battery, may be spaced from any neighbouring battery or batteries.

One or more of the batteries, e.g each battery, may be spaced from the internal surfaces of the housing.

The one or more batteries may be arranged such that, in use, when a fluid flows through the internal volume, the fluid can flow over one or more, e.g. all, of the exterior surfaces of one or more of the batteries. For instance, the one or more batteries may be arranged such that, in use, when a fluid flows through the internal volume, the fluid can flow over one or more, e.g. all, of the exterior surfaces of all of the batteries.

The system may comprise two or more inlets for fluid to flow into the internal volume. Each inlet may have an inlet valve associated therewith, wherein each given inlet valve is operable to control a flow of fluid through a given inlet and into the internal volume.

The system may comprise two or more outlets for fluid to flow out of the internal volume.

The housing may comprise: a main portion having one or more walls defining in part the internal volume and an opening; and a lid covering the opening. The lid may be fixed, either permanently or removably to the main portion in any suitable way. One or more sealing elements may be employed to provide a fluid-tight seal between the main portion and the lid of the housing.

The system may include a means operable to urge or force the fluid, e.g. a pump, through the internal volume.

For instance, the system may include a pump operable to push an input fluid stream through the inlet and/or a pump operable to draw an output fluid stream through the outlet.

In an implementation, the or an input fluid stream may be gravity-fed to the inlet.

The system may be implemented in a building or a vehicle.

A second aspect provides a management system for managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery comprising: a system according to the first aspect; and I5 at least one sensor configured to detect directly or indirectly a build-up of thermal energy within the housing.

A controller may be operably connected to the sensor(s). The sensor(s) may send a detection signal to the controller when a build-up of thermal energy within the housing is detected.

In an implementation, one or more of the sensors may be configured such that, if a given sensor detects a build-up of thermal energy that exceeds a predetermined threshold, the given sensor sends the or a detection signal to the controller.

One or more of the sensors may be a temperature sensor.

The valve may be operably connected to the controller. Following receipt of the or a detection signal, the controller may send a first actuation signal to cause the valve to switch from a first state preventing fluid flow to a second state allowing fluid flow.

The management system may comprise a means operable to urge or force fluid flow, e.g, a pump, through the internal volume. The means operable to urge or force fluid flow through the internal volume may be operably connected to the controller. In an implementation, following receipt of the or a detection signal, the controller may send a second actuation signal to switch on the means operable to urge or force fluid through the internal volume.

The management system may comprise an input conduit configured to provide fluid communication from a fluid source to the inlet. An input fluid stream flows, in use, along the input conduit.

There may be permanent or temporary fluid communication between the fluid source and the input conduit.

An output conduit may lead from the outlet and carry. in use, an output fluid stream away from the housing.

The management system may comprise an alert means operably connected to the IS controller. The controller may be configured to send an alert signal to the alert means upon receipt of the detection signal.

The management system according to the second aspect may include more than one system according to the first aspect.

A third aspect comprises a vehicle or a building comprising a system according to the first aspect or a management system according to the second aspect.

The vehicle may comprise a boat, e.g. a catamaran or a trimaran, The housing may be disposed at least in part within the or a hull of the boat.

The vehicle may comprise a car, a lorry or a bus.

The building may comprise a domestic dwelling, a commercial premises or an industrial premises.

The or a fluid source may be internal or external to the building or the vehicle in which the system or the management system is implemented.

A fourth aspect provides a method of managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery comprising: detecting a build-up of thermal energy in a battery; and in response to detecting the build-up of thermal energy in the battery,causing a fluid to flow over one or more exterior surfaces of the battery.

The method may be carried out using a system according to the present disclosure, e.g. the system of the first aspect or the management system of the second aspect.

Causing a fluid to flow over one or more exterior surfaces of the battery may involve switching at least one valve from a first state (preventing fluid flow) to a second state (allowing fluid flow), thereby allowing a fluid to flow through an inlet and into a housing having an internal volume containing the battery.

The method may further comprise an optional step of sending an alert signal to an alert means in response to detecting the build-up of thermal energy in the battery. The method may comprise a further optional step that involves the alert means giving a warning notification to a user or a safety officer of a vehicle or a building, in which the system is implemented The valve may be an inlet valve and be disposed upstream of an internal volume in which one or more batteries are arranged. The valve may be an outlet valve and be disposed downstream of the or an internal volume in which one or more batteries are arranged.

The skilled person will appreciate that except where mutually exclusive, any feature described herein may be applied to any aspect and/or combined with any other feature described herein within the scope of the invention as set of in the claims.

Example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows an example of a system for managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery; Figure 2 shows an example of a management system which includes the system of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows an example of a boat including a system according to the present

disclosure; and

Figure 4 shows an example of a method of managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery.

Typically, a battery may be considered to be an assembly including one or more battery cells packaged in a housing with power and communications contacts As used herein, the term battery may be understood to refer to such an assembly.

Figure 1 shows a system 1 for managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery. I5

The system 1 includes a housing 2 enclosing an internal volume 3. The housing 2 comprises a main portion 4 comprising a rectangular base 5, a first end wall 6 extending upwards from the rectangular base 5, a second end wall 7 opposite the first end wall 6 and extending upwards from the rectangular base 5, a first side wall (not shown to allow the internal volume 3 to be seen) extending from the first end wall 6 to the second end wall 7 and extending upwards from the rectangular base 5 and a second side wall 8 extending from the first end wall 6 to the second end wall 7 and extending upwards from the rectangular base 5. The second side wall 8 is opposite the first side wall. The main portion 4 has an open top, defined by upper edges of the first end wall 6, the second end wall 7, the first side wall and the second side wall 8. A lid 9 covers the open top. The lid 9 is fixed, either permanently or removably, to the main portion 4 in any suitable way. One or more sealing elements may be employed to provide a fluid-tight se& between the main portion 4 and the lid 9 of the housing 2.

An inlet 10 for fluid to flow, in use, into the internal volume 3 is disposed in the first end wall 6. An outlet 11 for fluid to flow, in use, out of the internal volume 3 is disposed in the second end wall 7. A valve (not shown) is operable to control a flow of fluid through the inlet 10 and into the internal volume 3. During operation of the system 1, the inlet 10 is in fluid communication with a fluid source. The inlet 10 may permanently or temporarily be in fluid communication with the fluid source. In this example, the valve is an inlet valve disposed upstream of the internal volume. The inlet valve is configured to adopt a first state in which the flow of fluid through the inlet 10 into the internal volume 3 is prevented or a second state in which the flow of fluid through the inlet 10 into the internal volume 3 is allowed. The inlet valve is operable to switch between the first state and the second state as required.

A first battery 12a, a second battery 126, a third battery 12c, a fourth battery 12d and a fifth battery 12e are arranged within the internal volume 3. Each one of the first battery 12a, the second battery 12b, the third battery 12c, the fourth battery 12d and the fifth battery 12e is a Li-ion battery comprising a plurality of battery cells packaged in a housing with power and communication contacts. The first battery 12a, the second battery 12b, the third battery 12c, the fourth battery I2d and the fifth battery 12e are connected to each other electrically. An electrical connection 13 extends from the batteries, 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e and out of the internal volume 3 IS through the second end wall 7.

The batteries 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e are arranged linearly. Each battery 12a, 12b, 12c. 12d, 12e is spaced from its neighbouring battery or batteries. Each battery 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e is spaced from the rectangular base 5, the first end wall 6, the second end wall 7, the first side wall, the second side wall 8 and the lid 9.

The first battery 12a is fixed to the rectangular base 5 by four legs I 4a, 14b, I4c, I4d. Each one of the second battery 12b, the third battery 12c, the fourth battery 12d and the fifth battery 12e is also fixed to the rectangular base 5 by four legs, although these legs have not been labelled, in order not to complicate Figure 1.

Figure I shows the system 1 operating in the event of a build-up of thermal energy resulting from a thermal runaway in a battery cell within the third battery I2c. A sun symbol 15 indicates the thermal runaway in the battery cell within the third battery 12c.

As soon as the build-up of thermal energy resulting from the thermal runaway in the battery cell within the third battery 12c is detected, the inlet valve is operated such that it adopts the second state.

With the inlet valve in the second state, an input fluid stream 16 supplied from a fluid source (not shown) in fluid communication with the inlet 10 is allowed to enter the internal volume 3. As indicated by a plurality of block arrows, one of which is labelled 18, the fluid then flows through the internal volume 3, passing over all of the exterior surfaces of the first battery 12a, the second battery 12b, the third battery 12c, the fourth battery 12d and the fifth battery 12e. An output fluid stream 17 then flows out of the internal volume 3 via the outlet I I. As a result of the fluid flowing over the external surfaces of the third battery 12c before flowing out of the internal volume 3 through the outlet 11, thermal energy from the third battery 12c is absorbed into the fluid and removed from the proximity of the third battery I2c.

Hence, operation of the system 1 may be able to manage a build-up of thermal energy IS resulting from the thermal runaway in one of the battery cells within the third battery 12c. By managing the thermal energy in this way and removing it from the proximity of the third battery 12c, the battery suffering from thermal runaway (i.e. the third battery 12c) may be able to burn without heating nearby structures to dangerous levels and starting a fire or causing other damage, e.g., warping of walls or melting of plastic protection.

A pump (not shown) may be employed to push the input fluid stream 16 through the inlet 10 and/or to draw the output fluid stream 17 through the outlet 1. Additionally or alternatively, the input fluid stream 16 may be gravity-fed to the inlet 10. Any suitable means operable to urge or force the fluid through the internal volume 3 may be employed. By urging or forcing the fluid through the internal volume, thermal energy may be removed relatively quickly from the proximity of a given battery suffering, for instance, from thermal runaway.

In an implementation, the fluid may comprise water. The fluid may comprise fresh water or salt water.

Many modifications to the specific arrangement of the system 1 will be apparent to the person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

For example, the housing may have any suitable shape and dimensions.

Any number of batteries may be arranged within the internal volume of the housing. The battery or batteries may be arranged in any way relative to each other.

For example, the system 1 may comprise more than one inlet for fluid to flow in use into the internal volume.

The system 1 may comprise more than one outlet for fluid to flow, in use, out of the internal volume In the example illustrated in Figure I, the batteries I2a, 12b. I2c, 12d, I2e are arranged in a manner that allows the fluid, e.g. water, to flow over all the battery external surfaces with sufficient volumetric flow rate to be able to absorb thermal I5 energy from any part of the batteries I2a, l2b, I 2c, 12d, 12e.

In general, the battery or batteries may be arranged in a manner that allows a fluid, e.g. water, to flow over at least one external surface of the or each battery with sufficient volumetric flow rate to be able to absorb thermal energy from the battery or batteries.

An example implementation of the system 1 is illustrated schematically in Figure 2. The system I is part of a management system 1000, which may, for example, be implemented in a building or a vehicle such as a boat or a car.

A sensor 24 is configured to detect directly or nd ectly a build-up of thermal energy within the housing 2.

A controller 23 is operably connected to the sensor 24.

An input conduit 26 connects a fluid source 20 to the inlet 10 (Figure 1) of the system 1. The input fluid stream 16 (Figure 1) flows, in use, along the input conduit 26.

Downstream of the fluid source 20, there is a pump 21 operable to push the input fluid stream 16 (Figure 1) along the input conduit 26. Downstream of the pump 21 and upstream of the inlet 10 (Figure I), there is an inlet valve 22 operable to control flow of the input fluid stream through the inlet 10 (Figure 1) and into the internal volume 3 (Figure 1).

The pump 21 and the inlet valve 22 are operably connected to the controller 23.

An output conduit 27 leads from the outlet II (Figure 1) and carries the output fluid stream 17 (Figure I) away from the system I A dashed line 25 indicates schematically that the pump 21, the inlet valve 22, the controller 23, the sensor 24 and the system 1 may be disposed within a building or a vehicle, in or on which the management system 1000 is implemented. The fluid source 20 may be disposed at least in part within the building or the vehicle, or, as illustrated in the example shown in Figure 2, the fluid source may be external to the building or the vehicle. As illustrated in the example shown in Figure 2, the output conduit 27 may be configured to carry the output fluid stream 17 (Figure 1) to a location outside the building or the vehicle, in or on which the management system 1000 is implemented.

If, for example. the sensor 24 detects a build-up of thermal energy that exceeds a predetermined threshold, then the sensor sends a detection signal to the controller 23.

Following receipt of the detection signal, the controller 23 sends a first actuation signal to cause the inlet valve 22 to switch from the first state (preventing flow along the input conduit 26) to the second state (allowing flow along the input conduit 26).

The controller 23 also sends a second actuation signal to the pump 21 to switch on the pump 21, which then acts to draw the input fluid stream 16 from the fluid source and push the input fluid stream 16 (Figure I) along the input conduit 26 towards the inlet 10 (Figure 1).

In an example implementation, the management system 1000 may include more than one system 1. The controller 23 may be operably connected to all of the systems I. Figure 3 shows a boat in the form of a catamaran 310 comprising the system 1. The catamaran 310 comprises a first hull 311 and a second hull 312. The second hull 312 is spaced from and parallel to the first hull 311. A deck 316 connects the second hull 312 to the first hull 311. Thc catamaran 310 may comprise, for example, a cabin for passengers and/or crew. The catamaran 310 is floating on a sea 313, indicated by the wavy line, although the catamaran 310 could equally be floating on a body of fresh water such as a lake, a reservoir or a river. The catamaran 310 may be, for example, an inshore or near-shore fishing boat, a water taxi or a ferry or a pleasure boat The system 1 (Figure 1) or the management system 1000 (Figure 2) is disposed at least in part in the first hull 311. The housing 2 (Figure 1) is disposed within the first hull 311.

A hull inlet 315 is present near a bow end of the first hull 311. A hull outlet 317 is present near a stern end of the first hull 311. An input conduit, e.g. the input conduit 26 (Figure 2), provides fluid communication from the hull inlet 315 to the inlet 10 (Figure 1). The hull inlet 315 may be configured to be dosed except when a build-up of thermal energy in a battery is detected and the inlet valve is operated such that it adopts the second state (i.e. allows fluid to flow through the inlet 10 into the internal volume 3 (Figure 1)).

An output conduit, e.g. the output conduit 27 (Figure 2), provides fluid communication from the outlet 11 (Figure 1) to the hull outlet 317. The hull outlet 316 may be configured to be closed except when a build-up of thermal energy in a battery is detected.

When a build-up of thermal energy in a battery is detected and the inlet valve is operated such it adopts the second state, sea water from the sea 313 can flow through the hull inlet 315 and then through the inlet 10, into the internal volume 3, over the external surfaces of the batteries I2a, 12b, I2c, 12d, I2e, through the outlet 11 and out of the first hull 311 via the hull outlet 317. The sea water absorbs the thermal energy from the thermal build-up and removes it from the proximity of the batteries.

One or more filters may be present upstream of the inlet valve 22, to reduce or prevent debris from entering the system 1. Such a filter may be present at or in the vicinity of the hull inlet 315.

In an implementation, there may be one or more batteries within the second hull 312. A system for managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery may be configured to manage a build-up of thermal energy in the one or more batteries within the second hull 312. For example, the system 1 (Figure 1) or the management system 1000 (Figure 2) may be disposed at least partially within the second hull 312.

It may be convenient to house a battery or batteries for a boat within a hull of the boat. In a multi-hulled boat such as a catamaran or a trimaran, the weight of the batteries can be distributed across the hulls of the boat, which may help balance the boat. Also, by distributing the batteries across the hulls of the boat, safety and reliability may benefit. For instance, the batteries in one hull may be isolated from the batteries in another hull, meaning that, for example, any damage caused by thermal runaway in one hull may not spread to the other hull (or hulls). Similarly, if the batteries in one hull were to stop working for whatever reason, the batteries in the other hull (or hulls) may still be operational and capable of powering the boat, e.g. to get the boat back to shore.

These benefits may be achieved within any boat (or other vehicle) by distributing the batteries such that one or more of the batteries are housed separately, e.g remotely, from any other battery or batteries.

The teaching of the present disclosure may be applied not only to boats, but to any kind of vehicle. The vehicle may be a manned or unmanned vehicle. The vehicle may be a land vehicle, a water-borne vehicle, a submarine or an airborne vehicle.

The system 1 and/or the management system 1000 according to the present disclosure may be suitable for implementation within a vehicle, a building or other similar structure.

The management system 1000 may include one or more sensors configured to detect directly or indirectly a build-up of thermal energy within the housing. Such a build-up of thermal energy may be indicative of a thermal runaway or a potential thermal runaway in at least one of the battery cells. As discussed in the introduction, thermal runaway is a potentially catastrophic mode of failure for battery cells. Any suitable type of sensor may be employed, for example, at least one of the sensors may be a temperature sensor configured to detect an increase in temperature associated with a build-up of thermal energy that may be indicative of a thermal runaway or a potential thermal runaway. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the sensors may be a position sensor configured to detect swelling of the battery cells associated with a build-up of thermal energy that may be indicative of a thermal runaway.

The one or more sensors may be configured to send a detection signal to the controller 23 in response to detecting a build-up of thermal energy within the housing.

In an implementation comprising a primary power source and a secondary power source, the controller 23 may be configured to switch which power source is operational at a given time, e.g. to switch from the primary power source to the secondary power source upon receipt of the detection signal and/or upon switching the operating state of the inlet valve from the first state to the second state. This may act to reduce the thermal energy generation rate of the battery cells, thereby mitigating the effects of a thermal runaway. The primary power source may comprise at least one battery. The secondary power source may comprise, for example, at least one battery and/or a different type of power source from the primary power source such as a diesel-powered or petrol-powered generator or engine.

In an example implementation, the controller 23 may be integrated and work in combination with a control module for the vehicle or building, in which the system 1 and/or the management system 1000 according to the present disclosure is implemented. For example, the control module may control one or more further aspects of a vehicle's, e.g. a boat's, operation such as steering, navigation (e.g.. GPS) and engine management. Either or both of the control module and the controller 23 may include a memory module which stores operation data indicative of battery operation such as any one or more of: battery temperature data, open circuit voltage and battery state of charge. This operation data may be generated by or derived from readings made by the sensor 24. The memory module may further rccord operation states of the battery or batteries over time and/or the operational state the inlet valve.

In the example shown in Figure 3, the fluid entering the internal volume 3 through the inlet 10 comprises seawater. Seawater has a higher heat capacity than fresh water and a similar viscosity. The use of seawater may therefore allow greater thermal energy extraction for a given throughput of fluid than fresh water. Nevertheless, a system 1 according to thc prcscnt disclosure that employs another fluid, e.g. frcsh water, to absorb thermal energy from a battery and remove it from the vicinity of the battery may also deliver the benefits described herein. For example, a system 1 according to the present disclosure may employ a gas, such as air, as the fluid entering the internal volume 3 through the inlet 10. In this example, the system or the management system 1000 may be implemented in an aircraft such as a plane or a helicopter. The system I may be configured such that, when the inlet valve 22 is in the second operational state, the movement of the aircraft may help to force air through the internal volume.

Referring to the example shown in Figure 3, the hull inlet 315 and the hull outlet 317 may be positioned such that forward motion of the boat 310 may help to increase a rate of fluid entering thc systcm 1.

IS During thermal runaway, reactions within battery cells create gaseous products which can cause swelling and, in some cases, bursting of the cells. For this reason, the system 1 may further include at least one pollution sensor configured to detect a contaminant within the fluid that may indicate that a battery cell has perforated. The pollution sensor(s) may be positioned within the housing 3 and/or proximal to the outlets 7 or the hull outlet 317. The pollution sensor may be operatively coupled to the controller 23 such that upon detecting the contaminant, the controller 23 actuates the outlet 7 and/or the hull outlet 317 to enable the contaminant to escape from the internal volume 3 of the housing 2.

The management system 1000 may further include an alert means operatively connected to the controller 23 wherein the controller 23 is configured to send an alert signal to the alert means upon receipt of the detection signal, In some examples as will be described in more detail later in the disclosure, the controller 23 may be configured to switch the inlet valve from the first state to the second state only when it has received multiple detection signals. In these examples, the controller 23 may be configured to send an alert signal only when it switches the inlet valve from the first state to the second state.

Upon receiving the alert signal, the alert means may provide a warning notification, e.g. to a user of the vehicle or building or a safety officer. For example, upon receipt of the alert signal, the alert means may display a message on a user interface that indicates users should exit the vehicle and/or may sound an auditory alarm or siren. In another example, the alert means may include an external server such as a cloud system and upon receipt of the alert signal, the alert means informs the safety officer such as a fireman or coastguard of the build-up of thermal energy in the battery. The alert means may further provide other information to the safety officer such as timestamped locations of the vehicle (GPS), the vehicle type and colour, temperatures recorded by the sensor and an estimated number of battery cells undergoing thermal runaway. Any combination of the example responses of the alert means described in this paragraph is also considered to be within the scope of the disclosure.

The fluid source may be external to the building or the vehicle in which the system 1 or the management system 1000 is implemented. For instance, the fluid source may be a body of water, the sea, a lake, a pond, a river, a storage tank external to the building or the vehicle or a mains water supply. Additionally or alternatively, the fluid source may be internal to the building or vehicle in which the system 1 or the management system 1000 is implemented. For example, the fluid source may comprise a reservoir or a storage tank that is disposed in or on the building or the vehicle, In an implementation, an upstream end of the input conduit may be adapted to receive or be connected to a fluid delivery device. For example, the upstream end of the input conduit may be adapted to receive or be connected to a hose, e.g. a hose from a fire engine. In one implementation, the system 1 or the management system 1000 may be implemented in a vehicle such as a car, a bus or a lorry. in the event of a build-up of thermal energy indicative of a thermal runaway, the fire service may be called and the hose from a fire engine may be received in or connected to the upstream end of the or a input conduit leading to the internal volume of the housing. In such an implementation, there may be no need for an inlet valve, since there is not permanent fluid communication between the fluid source and the inlet (or inlets) leading to the internal volume of the housing.

The system I or the management system 1000 according to the present disclosure may be implemented in a building such as a domestic dwelling or a commercial premises. In this example, the inlet or inlets may be fluidieally connected to a fluid source such as a fluid reservoir or a storage tank within the building or a fluid source external to the building such as a mains water supply or other body of water such as a lake, a river, or a sea.

The housing may include subdividers separating the batteries into a number of groups. The groups of batteries may be electrically connected to one another but fluidically isolated such that fluid surrounding a group of batteries cannot mix with fluid surrounding another group of batteries, within the housing. Each group may be associated with a different inlet or set of inlets. Similarly, each group may be associated with a different outlet or set of outlets.

IS The management system 1000 may further include a number of additional sensors substantially similar to the sensor 24 and similarly configured to detect directly or indirectly a build-up of thermal energy in a battery and send a detection signal to the controller 23 in response. The sensors may form an array of sensors, which are regularly or irregularly spaced on or in the internal volume of the housing and/or on an external surface of one or more of the batteries. The array of sensors may be configured such that each battery or each battery cell has at least one sensor associated with it. Each sensor of the array of sensors may have an identifier. As such, upon receiving a detection signal the controller may collate identity data relating to the identity (e.g. the identifier) of the sensor which sent the detection signal. The controller may store this identity data in the or a memory module.

The controller may be configured to actuate one or more inlets valves according to the identity data stored in the memory module. For example, the control module may be configured to actuate the one or more inlets valves (thereby switching the inlet valve(s) from the first state to the second state) only upon receiving detection signals from a number of sensors of the array of sensors that exceeds a threshold number. This may prevent a single malfunctioning sensor from triggering the inlet valve(s) to switch from the first state to the second state.

In another example, the controller may be configured to actuate a subset of the one or more inlets, wherein the subset is selected according to the identity data received by the controller. In the example, where the housing may include subdividers separating the batteries into a number of groups, each group may have an associated fraction of the array of sensors. Upon receiving detection signals from sensors associated with one or more specific groups of batteries or battery cells, the controller may actuate a subset of the one or more inlets corresponding to these one or more specific groups of batteries or battery cells. This may allow groups of batteries or battery cells wherein one or more cells is undergoing thermal runaway or is at risk of undergoing thermal runaway to be more effectively cooled. In a modification to this alternative, a subset of inlet valves for inlets corresponding to groups of batteries or battery cells which immediately neighbour the one or more specific groups undergoing thermal runaway or at risk of undergoing thermal runaway may also be actuated. The controller may be configured to electrically isolate the specific groups of batteries or battery cells undergoing thermal runaway or at risk of undergoing thermal runaway and, optionally, any nearby or neighbouring groups of batteries or battery cells.

Alternatively, the controller may be configured to prevent any current being drawn by any of the batteries upon receipt of any detection signal from any sensor.

The controller may be configured to calculate an estimate of a number of batteries or battery cells undergoing thermal runaway or at risk of undergoing thermal runaway and may store this in the memory module.

Figure 4 shows an example of a method 100 of managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery. The method 100 may be carried out using a system according to the present disclosure, e.g. the system I or the management system 1000.

In a first step 101, the method 100 includes detecting a build-up of thermal energy in a battery. At least one sensor may detect directly or indirectly the build-up of thermal energy in the battery. The sensor(s) may send a detection signal in response to detecting the build-up of thermal energy in the battery.

The method 100 further includes a second step 102 of, in response to detecting the build-up of thermal energy in the battery, causing a fluid to flow over one or more exterior surfaces of the battery. For example, the second step 102 may comprise, in response to detecting the build-up of thermal energy in the battery, switching at least one inlet valve from a first state (preventing fluid flow) to a second state (allowing fluid flow), thereby allowing a fluid to flow through an inlet and into a housing having an internal volume containing the battery. For example, a controller may receive the detection signal and, in response, actuate at least one inlet valve such that the inlet valve(s) is/are switched from the first state (preventing fluid flow) to the second state. The controller may switch the inlet valve(s) from the first state to the second state upon receiving a single detection signal from a sensor. Alternatively, the controller may switch the inlet valve(s) from the first state to the second state only when it has received multiple detection signals (for example, only upon receiving detection signals from a number of sensors that exceeds a threshold number). This may prevent a single malfunctioning sensor from triggering the inlet valve(s) to switch from the first state to the second state.

The method 100 may further comprise an optional third step 103 of sending an alert signal to an alert means in response to detecting the build-up of thermal energy in the battery. For example, the controller may send an alert signal to an alert means upon receipt of the detection signal. The controller may send the alert signal upon receiving a single detection signal from a sensor. Alternatively, the controller may send the alert signal to the alert means only when it has received multiple detection signals (for example, only upon receiving detection signals from a number of sensors that exceeds a threshold number). This may prevent a single malfunctioning sensor from triggering the alert means.

The method 100 may further comprise an optional fourth step 104 that involves the alert means giving a warning notification to a user or a safety officer of the vehicle or the building, in which the system is implemented. For example, upon receipt of the alert signal, the alert means may display a message on a user interface that indicates users should exit the vehicle or the building. In another example, the alert means may sound an auditory alarm or siren upon receipt of the alert signal. Alternately or in addition, the alert means may include an external server such as a cloud system and upon receipt of the alert signal, the alert means may inform a safety officer such as a fireman or coastguard of the build-up in thermal energy in the battery. This step may additionally include the alert means providing further information to the safety officer such as timestamped locations of the vehicle (GPS), the vehicle type and colour, temperatures recorded by the sensor(s) and an estimated number of batteries or battery cells undergoing thermal runaway and/or at risk of undergoing thermal runaway. Any combination of the example responses of the alert means described in this paragraph is also considered to be within the scope of the disclosure.

The vehicle or the building may further comprise a primary power source in a first enclosure and a secondary power source in a second enclosure, separate from the first enclosure Either the first or second enclosure may comprise one or more batteries.

The method 100 may further include an optional fifth step 105 which involves the controller switching which power source is used from the primary power source to the secondary power source upon detecting the build-up of thermal energy in the battery and/or upon switching the operating state of the inlet valve(s) from the first state to the second state, e.g. upon receipt of the detection signal.

Figure 4 shows an example order in which the steps of the method 100 may be completed. However, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the steps of the method 100 may be completed in any suitable order.

In some examples, the controller may be configured to switch the inlet valve(s) from the first state to the second state only when it has received multiple detection signals. In these examples, the controller may be configured to send an alert signal only when it switches the inlet valve(s) from the first operating state to the second operating state.

In an implementation, the inlet valve(s) discussed during the method 100 may be substituted by outlet valve(s) of the system 1 or the wider system 1000, the outlet valve(s) being disposed downstream of the internal volume.

It will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concepts disclosed herein. Except where mutually exclusive, any of the features may be employed separately or in combination with any other features and the disclosure extends to all combinations and sub-combinations of one or more features disclosed herein within the scope of the invention as set out in the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system for managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery comprising: a housing enclosing an internal volume, in which one or more batteries are arranged; an inlet for fluid to flow into the internal volume; a valve operable to control a flow of fluid through the inlet and into the internal volume; and an outlet for fluid to flow out of the internal volume; wherein, in use, when the valve permits fluid to flow through the inlet and into the internal volume, the fluid flows over one or more external surfaces of one or more of the batteries before flowing out of the internal volume through the outlet.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein one or more of the batteries are spaced from any neighbouring battery or batteries.
3 The system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the one or more batteries are arranged such that, in use, when a fluid flows through the internal volume, the fluid can flow over one or more of the exterior surfaces of one or more of the batteries.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the one or more batteries are arranged such that, in use, when a fluid flows through the internal volume, the fluid can flow over one or more, e.g. all, of the exterior surfaces of all of the batteries.
The system according to any one of the preceding claims comprising two or more inlets for fluid to flow into the internal volume.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the valve comprises an inlet valve disposed upstream of the internal volume and optionally wherein each inlet has an inlet valve associated therewith, wherein each given inlet valve is operable to control a flow of fluid through a given inlet and into the internal volume.
7. The system according to any one of the preceding claims comprising two or more outlets for fluid to flow out of the internal volume. Li
8. The system according to any one of the preceding claims including a means operable to urge or force the fluid through the internal volume.
9. A management system for managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery comprising: the system according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and at least one sensor configured to detect directly or indirectly a build-up of thermal energy within the housing.
10. The management system of claim 9, wherein a controller is operably connected to the sensor(s).
11. The management system of claim 10, wherein one or more of the sensors send a detection signal to the controller when a build-up of thermal energy within the housing is detected.
12. The management system of claim 9, claim 10 or claim 11, wherein one or more of the sensors are configured such that, if a given sensor detects a build-up of thermal energy that exceeds a predetermined threshold, the given sensor sends the or a detection signal to the controller.
13. The management system of any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein one or more of the sensors are a temperature sensor.
14. The management system of any one of claims 9 to 13 wherein the valve(s) is operably connected to the or a controller.
15. The management system of claim 14, wherein, following receipt of the or a detection signal, the controller sends a first actuation signal to cause the valve(s) to switch from a first state preventing fluid flow to the inlet to a second state allowing fluid flow to the inlet.
16. The management system of any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the management system comprises a means operable to urge or force fluid flow through the internal volume operably connected to the or a controller.
17. The management system of claim 16, wherein, following receipt of the or a detection signal, the controller may send a second actuation signal to switch on the means operable to urge or force fluid through the internal volume.
18. The management system of any one of claims 9 to 17 comprising an input conduit configured to provide fluid communication from a fluid source to the inlet.
19. The management system of any one of claims 9 to 18 comprising an output conduit leading from the outlet and carrying, in use, an output fluid stream away from the housing.
20. The management system of any one of claims 9 to 19 comprising an alert means operably connected to the or a controller.
21. The management system of claim 20, wherein the controller is configured to send an alert signal to the alert means upon receipt of the detection signal.
22. A vehicle or a building comprising a system or management system according to any one of the preceding claims.
23. A vehicle according to claim 22, wherein the vehicle is a boat and the housing is disposed at least in part within a hull of the boat.
24. A vehicle according to claim 22 or claim 23 or a building according to claim 22, wherein a fluid source is internal or external to the building or the vehicle.
25. A method of managing a build-up of thermal energy in a battery comprising: detecting a build-up of thermal energy in a battery; and in response to detecting the build-up of thermal energy in the battery,causing a fluid to flow over one or more exterior surfaces of the battery.