CA1044317A - Battery vent - Google Patents
Battery ventInfo
- Publication number
- CA1044317A CA1044317A CA236,227A CA236227A CA1044317A CA 1044317 A CA1044317 A CA 1044317A CA 236227 A CA236227 A CA 236227A CA 1044317 A CA1044317 A CA 1044317A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- battery
- vent
- narrow passage
- inch
- members
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/10—Energy storage using batteries
Landscapes
- Gas Exhaust Devices For Batteries (AREA)
Abstract
BATTERY VENT
ABSTRACT
An electric storage battery vent comprising first and second members inhibits battery explosions by venting gases generated within a battery through a narrow passage formed between said first and second members to a vent hole in one of said members.
ABSTRACT
An electric storage battery vent comprising first and second members inhibits battery explosions by venting gases generated within a battery through a narrow passage formed between said first and second members to a vent hole in one of said members.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION. This invention pertains to electric storage battery vent caps comprising first and second members. More particularly, it pertains to battery vents which greatly reduce the potential for explosions within the battery.
This is accomplished by designing ~he vent cap in such a manner to vent battery gases through at least one very narrow passage formed between said first and second members.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART. A common problem in the battery indastry today is the occurrence of battery explosions, generally occurring while the battery is receiving a fast charge of being jumped. When too high a current is applied for too long a time, large amounts of ~ydrogen and oxygen may be evolved by the electrolysis of water in the sulfuric acid solution. These gases must be vented, but should they be ignited by a flame or spark generated at the battery terminals, the resulting flame can propagate back into the battery cells causing the battery to explode. The exp~loding battery will spray sulfuric acid which can cause severe burns and blindness if contacted with the skin or eyes.
The prior art has recognized this problem and has responded by placing a rectangular porous ceramic insert into the battery vent, through which the battery gases are vented. This means performs well, but is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of cost. The insert itself is costly and requires that additional steps be taken ~o fabricate the battery vent, which -:
makes the process more expensive as well. .-.
I have invented a battery vent which is efficient in reducing the likelihood of battery explosions and yet is : .
simple and inexpensive to fabricate. By properly designing a vent path between the first and second members of the battery vent, the p00ous insert can be eliminated.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Broadly, the invention resides in a battery vent comprising first and second members, a vent means, for example, at least one vent hole on at least one of said members, and a means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass, wherein said first and second members fit closely together in such a manner that substantially all gas generated within a battery passes through at least.one narrow passage formed between~s~id~fir.~t and~.second mem~ers-.to sai vent means. The narrow passage between the first and second ?,'.
members may be created by at least one shallow groove in either mem~er or bot~l or a~ternativelx b~ flexure of one member.
In one.aspect, the battery vent may have a plurality of bosses on the second member which depend into the :~
battery lid and wherein there are a plurality of shallow grooves . -in the second member, each separately located between adjacent bosses such that each shallow groove is in communication with -the void spaces within each boss, allowing each shallow groove to -function as a narrow passage for both adjacent bosses simultan-eously. At least one vent hole is placed in communication with ~. .
each shallow groove.
In a further aspect, each narrow passage may be ~
formed by the intersection of two shallow grooves resulting in :
~04~317 a cross-shaped narrow passage. Each cross-shaped narrow passage is ~eparately located between adjacent bosses of the second member and one of said intersecting shallow grooves is in communication with the void spaces within each boss. The other intersecting shallow groove provides a place for at least one vent hole in communication with the narrow passage.
In a further aspect, the invention resides in a battery vent wherein the first member is attached to the second member in such a manner to leave substantially no clearance between corresponding portions of said first and second members, wherein the first member is flexible, and wherein substantially all gas generated within a battery vents through a narrow passage ~`-formed between said first and second members when internal pressure forces the first member to flex. A battery vent having this venting means may be either a gang vent (multiple cell) or a single-cell vent.
In a still further aspect, the invention resides in a battery lid wherein the aforesaid second member is actually an integral part of the lid and the first member has at least one vent hole. In the same manner as the previous aspects, the , first member fits closely together with the second member so that substantially all gas generated within a battery passes through at least one narrow passage formed between said first and second members. `
In a still further aspect of this invention there ;
is provided a battery ~ent comprising~
(a) a first member;
(b) a second member positioned closely adjacent `~ -~
to said first member; ~-(c) a vent means;
(d) a narrow passage formed between said first and second members in gaseous communication with said vent means, .;
'~ ' . ' . ' . ' ` ' '' ~ .' ' ~ ' ' ' '.
~)44317 ::
said narrow passage having a depth between 0.001 and 0.015 inch and a length such that venting gases must travel at least .
0.18 inch through said narrow passage; and (e) means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass from the battery to said narrow passage, wherein said battery vent acts to inhibit battery explosions.
In a still further aspect of this invention there is provided a battery lid comprising: ;
(a) a first member;
(b) a second member which is an integral part of the battery and positioned closely adjacent to said first member; "
(c) at least one vent hole in said first member; ~
(d) a narrow passage formed between said first and ~-second members in gaseous communict~mon with said vent hole(s), said narrow passage having a length such that venting gases must travei at least 0.18 inch through said narrow passage and `~
a depth between 0.001 and 0.015 inch; and (e) means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass from the battery to said narrow passage, wherein said battery lid acts to inhibit battery explosions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a battery with two gang-type battery vents in place on the lid. :
Figure 2 shows a partially cross-sectional ~ide : .
view of a gang vent having a flexible first member. `
Figure 3 shows a plan view of the second member shown in Figure 2.
-4- :
-~ - - :
,. . . . .. . :
1~;)44317 Figure 4 shows a plan view of the second member having a single shallow groove between adjacent bosses.
Figure 5 shows a plan view of a second member having a cross-shaped narrow passage between adjacent bosses.
Figure 6 shows a side view of a first member with at least two vent holes, illustrating the baffles.
Figure 7 shows a plan view of a first member having six optional vent hole locations.
Figure 8 shows a side view of an assembled single cell vent. ~;;
Figure 9 shows a bottom view of the first member of the vent of Figure 8.
Figure l0 shows a bottom view of the second member of Figure 8. - -Figure ll shows a side view of the second member of Figure l0.
Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the assembled single cell battery vent of Figure 8. ~ ~
DESCRIPTION OF THE P~EFE~RED EMBODIMENTS ~ -Directing attention to the drawing, my invention will be described in more detail. `
Figure l shows a battery l with two terminals 2 -and a pair of gang battery vents 3 in place atop the battery ;
lid 4. Although the gang type battery vents herein illustrated -;
are each designed to vent three battery cells, it is clearly within the scope of this invention to design the battery vents to cover any number of battery cells simultaneously. `
Figure 2 shows a partially cross-sectional side view of a gang vent having a flexible first member 6 with at least two vent holes 7 ~only one hole visible). Shown is a ~;
skirt 8 around the bottom member; the downwardly protruding ~ --5- ~
r` ~
~o4~3i7 bosses 9 which plug the openings in the battery cell cover; an orifice 11 which allows electrolyte to drain back into the battery cell; three downwardly protruding cylinders 12 (only two shown) which prevent splashing electrolyte from entering and accumulating in the void space 13; and a means for attachment to a battery comprising an "s-shaped" annular fold 14 which is flexible enough to adjust for center-to-center errors in the cell cover ppenings, providing a tight seal between the vent and the cell cover ~lid). In operation, the battery gases are generated within each cell and enter the vent through orifice 11, which has a diameter of O.S0 inch. The gases then pass between the sidewall of the boss 9 and the downwardly protruding cylinder (baffle) 12 of the first member. It has been found that the distance between the inner wall of the boss and the downwardly protruding cylinder may range between 0.002 and 0.015 inch. The gases subsequently pass through void space 13 and then between the first member 6 and a portion 16 of the second member before exiting through the vent hole 7. The clearance between the first member 6 and the second member 16 is sub-stantially zero until internal pressure created by the evolvingbattery gases causes the first member to flex or bow outward.
The first member is attached to the second member by a sonic weld around the periphery of the first member, allowing the first member to bow only in the middle. Thi flexing action creates a narrow passage between the first and second members which allows the gases to pass out the vent hole 7. It has been found that the first member may separate from the second member a distance between 0.002 and 0.012 inch. This provides room for adequate gas flow while still preventing propagation of any ;
flame from autside the vent back into the battery.
:
,, 1~)4431~
Figure 3 shows the second member of Figure 2 viewed from the top. It illustrates the flat area 16 of the second member over which venting gases pass prior to reaching the vent hole. This embodiment can be contrasted with the embodiments illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, which have a groove in the second member which channels venting gases directly to the vent hole. Also shown is the inner periphery 17 of the second member -to which the first member may be sonic welded.
Figure 4 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the second member wherein the battery gases pass between the first and second members via a narrow passage comprising a `
shallow groove 18 in the second member which provides communic- -~
ation between a vent hole in the first member and the void ~-space 13 of the second member. In this embodiment it is preferred that the first member be fastened tightly against the second member to avoid any flexing action. This is easily accomplished by sonic welding the two members together at `' various locations 19, as well as around the periphery of the first member. The purpose of the shallow groove 18 is to pro-vide dimensionally controlled flow of the gases which would be defeated by flexure of the first member.
Figure 5 illustrates the most preferred embodiment of the second member for a gang-type vent. It differs from `-that shown in Figure 4 only in the configuration of the narrow passage. This embodiment employs a cross-shaped narrow passage 21 comprising the intersection of two g~nerally straight shallow grooves in the second member, wherein each cross-shaped narrow passage is separately located between two adjacent bosses. One of i-the two intersecting shallow grooves provides communication between the void space within the two adjacent bosses. The other shallow groove provides communication with at least one ~l~44317 vent hole in the first member, preferably a plurality of vent holes. It is also preferred that all vent holes be located such that every molecule of venting gases must travel throu~h the narrow passage a distance of at least 0.18 inch. This applies to all embodiments of this invention. Shorter paths would lessen the ability of the battery vent to prevent flame propagation back into the battery. Also, the depth of each shallow groove should be at least 0.001 inch to allow free flow of gases but not more than 0.015 inch to prevent flame propagation.
No restrictions on the width of the narrow passage are known.
Also, as indicated in Figure 4, the first member should remain close as poss~ble to the second member during operation, thus soqUir$ng additional ~eld loc-~ion8 19.
Figure 6 shows a side vie~ of the mo~t proforred embodiment of the first member for a gang-type battery vent.
This design is the same as that shown in Figure 2. Shown is the generally flat portion 6 of the first member with a thickness of 0.03 inch, the vent hole locations 7, and the downwardly -protruding cylinders (baffles) 12. The material of the first member is polypropylene, as is the second member, but the invention should not be construed as being llmited to any specific material.
Figure 7 shows a plan view of the first member as viewed from above. It illustrates two sets of three possible locations for vent holes. Any combination of vent holes may be ~ -used, providing there is at least one vent hole for each narrow ;
passage located between adjacent bosses. As indicated in this figure and those previously described, it is preferred that the vent holes be located in the first member and the shallow grooves be located in the second member. This, however, may be reversed without exceeding the scope of this invention. The primary purpose for venting gases through the first member is that there : : - .
. .
` `` 10~3i7 are no pockets within the exterior of the first member in which vented gases could collect. Underneath the second member, how-ever, there are places where the hydrogen might be trapped, causing an explosion hazard. The size of the vent holes may vary between 0.01 inch to 0.13 inch in diameter. In the prefer-red embodiment the vent hole diameter is 0.03 inch, there being four symmetrically-spaced vent holes.
Figure 8 shows a side view of a single-cell battery vent of the screw-on variety. The means by which flame propagation is retarded in this embodiment is the same as that for the gang-type battery vent of Figure 2, i.e. the venting battery gases pass between a narrow passage formed between first and second members. Shown in this figure are two optional protrusions 5 which contain the vent holes located on the first ;
member, finger grips 22 located around the periphery of the first member, and the threaded cylinder 23 of the second member which s~rews into the battery cell cover ~lid).
Figure 9 is a plan view of the first member viewed from inside the battery. Shown is the generally flat surface ~ -24 of the first member, the vent holes 7, and a linear rib or protrusion 26 which protrudes inwardly about .063 inch to engage a corresponding slot of the second member. The linear rib is normal to an imaginary line connecting the two vent holes to .
assure that all points along the rib are no closer to either vent hole than the center of the rib, which is about .041 inch away. This assures that every molecule of venting gases must travel through the narrow passage at least that distance before being vented through the vent hole. As with the previously described embodiments, the shortest pathway a venting molecule can take must be at least 0.18 inch. The manner in which this embodiment functions is similar to the embodiment of Figure 2 -_ g _ "' and will be more clearly described in Figure 12.
Figure 10 is a plan view of the second member viewed from inside the battery. Shown in a generally flat surface 27 of the second member, the threaded cylinder 23, and the afore-mentioned slot 28 which is adapted to accept the protrusion 26 of the first member.
Figure 11 is a side view of the second member, show- ~
ing the generally flat surface 27, the slot 28, and the threaded ~ -cylinder 23. ~
Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the assembl- -ed battery vent of Figure 8 and most clearly illustrates the operation of the vent. Battery gases evolved from within the cell pass into the threaded cylinder 23 and subsequently through the slot 28. Since the slot is partially obstructed by the protrusion 26 of the first member, the gases ~ust squeeze ;
between the slot and the protrusion in order t~ leave the threaded cylinder cavity. The gases then pass b~tween generally flat surfaces 24 and 27 which are forced apart by internal pressure creating a narrow passage. The gases then exit through the -vent holes 7, which can be raised slightly above surface 24 in order to reduce the dhances of being plugged by grease and grime which is likely to be deposited on top of the vent surface 24.
A gasket 29 is used to tightly seal the battery vent to the cell opening.
It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that many variations may be made in the embodiments chosen for purposes of illustration without departing from the scope of the invention.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION. This invention pertains to electric storage battery vent caps comprising first and second members. More particularly, it pertains to battery vents which greatly reduce the potential for explosions within the battery.
This is accomplished by designing ~he vent cap in such a manner to vent battery gases through at least one very narrow passage formed between said first and second members.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART. A common problem in the battery indastry today is the occurrence of battery explosions, generally occurring while the battery is receiving a fast charge of being jumped. When too high a current is applied for too long a time, large amounts of ~ydrogen and oxygen may be evolved by the electrolysis of water in the sulfuric acid solution. These gases must be vented, but should they be ignited by a flame or spark generated at the battery terminals, the resulting flame can propagate back into the battery cells causing the battery to explode. The exp~loding battery will spray sulfuric acid which can cause severe burns and blindness if contacted with the skin or eyes.
The prior art has recognized this problem and has responded by placing a rectangular porous ceramic insert into the battery vent, through which the battery gases are vented. This means performs well, but is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of cost. The insert itself is costly and requires that additional steps be taken ~o fabricate the battery vent, which -:
makes the process more expensive as well. .-.
I have invented a battery vent which is efficient in reducing the likelihood of battery explosions and yet is : .
simple and inexpensive to fabricate. By properly designing a vent path between the first and second members of the battery vent, the p00ous insert can be eliminated.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Broadly, the invention resides in a battery vent comprising first and second members, a vent means, for example, at least one vent hole on at least one of said members, and a means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass, wherein said first and second members fit closely together in such a manner that substantially all gas generated within a battery passes through at least.one narrow passage formed between~s~id~fir.~t and~.second mem~ers-.to sai vent means. The narrow passage between the first and second ?,'.
members may be created by at least one shallow groove in either mem~er or bot~l or a~ternativelx b~ flexure of one member.
In one.aspect, the battery vent may have a plurality of bosses on the second member which depend into the :~
battery lid and wherein there are a plurality of shallow grooves . -in the second member, each separately located between adjacent bosses such that each shallow groove is in communication with -the void spaces within each boss, allowing each shallow groove to -function as a narrow passage for both adjacent bosses simultan-eously. At least one vent hole is placed in communication with ~. .
each shallow groove.
In a further aspect, each narrow passage may be ~
formed by the intersection of two shallow grooves resulting in :
~04~317 a cross-shaped narrow passage. Each cross-shaped narrow passage is ~eparately located between adjacent bosses of the second member and one of said intersecting shallow grooves is in communication with the void spaces within each boss. The other intersecting shallow groove provides a place for at least one vent hole in communication with the narrow passage.
In a further aspect, the invention resides in a battery vent wherein the first member is attached to the second member in such a manner to leave substantially no clearance between corresponding portions of said first and second members, wherein the first member is flexible, and wherein substantially all gas generated within a battery vents through a narrow passage ~`-formed between said first and second members when internal pressure forces the first member to flex. A battery vent having this venting means may be either a gang vent (multiple cell) or a single-cell vent.
In a still further aspect, the invention resides in a battery lid wherein the aforesaid second member is actually an integral part of the lid and the first member has at least one vent hole. In the same manner as the previous aspects, the , first member fits closely together with the second member so that substantially all gas generated within a battery passes through at least one narrow passage formed between said first and second members. `
In a still further aspect of this invention there ;
is provided a battery ~ent comprising~
(a) a first member;
(b) a second member positioned closely adjacent `~ -~
to said first member; ~-(c) a vent means;
(d) a narrow passage formed between said first and second members in gaseous communication with said vent means, .;
'~ ' . ' . ' . ' ` ' '' ~ .' ' ~ ' ' ' '.
~)44317 ::
said narrow passage having a depth between 0.001 and 0.015 inch and a length such that venting gases must travel at least .
0.18 inch through said narrow passage; and (e) means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass from the battery to said narrow passage, wherein said battery vent acts to inhibit battery explosions.
In a still further aspect of this invention there is provided a battery lid comprising: ;
(a) a first member;
(b) a second member which is an integral part of the battery and positioned closely adjacent to said first member; "
(c) at least one vent hole in said first member; ~
(d) a narrow passage formed between said first and ~-second members in gaseous communict~mon with said vent hole(s), said narrow passage having a length such that venting gases must travei at least 0.18 inch through said narrow passage and `~
a depth between 0.001 and 0.015 inch; and (e) means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass from the battery to said narrow passage, wherein said battery lid acts to inhibit battery explosions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a battery with two gang-type battery vents in place on the lid. :
Figure 2 shows a partially cross-sectional ~ide : .
view of a gang vent having a flexible first member. `
Figure 3 shows a plan view of the second member shown in Figure 2.
-4- :
-~ - - :
,. . . . .. . :
1~;)44317 Figure 4 shows a plan view of the second member having a single shallow groove between adjacent bosses.
Figure 5 shows a plan view of a second member having a cross-shaped narrow passage between adjacent bosses.
Figure 6 shows a side view of a first member with at least two vent holes, illustrating the baffles.
Figure 7 shows a plan view of a first member having six optional vent hole locations.
Figure 8 shows a side view of an assembled single cell vent. ~;;
Figure 9 shows a bottom view of the first member of the vent of Figure 8.
Figure l0 shows a bottom view of the second member of Figure 8. - -Figure ll shows a side view of the second member of Figure l0.
Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the assembled single cell battery vent of Figure 8. ~ ~
DESCRIPTION OF THE P~EFE~RED EMBODIMENTS ~ -Directing attention to the drawing, my invention will be described in more detail. `
Figure l shows a battery l with two terminals 2 -and a pair of gang battery vents 3 in place atop the battery ;
lid 4. Although the gang type battery vents herein illustrated -;
are each designed to vent three battery cells, it is clearly within the scope of this invention to design the battery vents to cover any number of battery cells simultaneously. `
Figure 2 shows a partially cross-sectional side view of a gang vent having a flexible first member 6 with at least two vent holes 7 ~only one hole visible). Shown is a ~;
skirt 8 around the bottom member; the downwardly protruding ~ --5- ~
r` ~
~o4~3i7 bosses 9 which plug the openings in the battery cell cover; an orifice 11 which allows electrolyte to drain back into the battery cell; three downwardly protruding cylinders 12 (only two shown) which prevent splashing electrolyte from entering and accumulating in the void space 13; and a means for attachment to a battery comprising an "s-shaped" annular fold 14 which is flexible enough to adjust for center-to-center errors in the cell cover ppenings, providing a tight seal between the vent and the cell cover ~lid). In operation, the battery gases are generated within each cell and enter the vent through orifice 11, which has a diameter of O.S0 inch. The gases then pass between the sidewall of the boss 9 and the downwardly protruding cylinder (baffle) 12 of the first member. It has been found that the distance between the inner wall of the boss and the downwardly protruding cylinder may range between 0.002 and 0.015 inch. The gases subsequently pass through void space 13 and then between the first member 6 and a portion 16 of the second member before exiting through the vent hole 7. The clearance between the first member 6 and the second member 16 is sub-stantially zero until internal pressure created by the evolvingbattery gases causes the first member to flex or bow outward.
The first member is attached to the second member by a sonic weld around the periphery of the first member, allowing the first member to bow only in the middle. Thi flexing action creates a narrow passage between the first and second members which allows the gases to pass out the vent hole 7. It has been found that the first member may separate from the second member a distance between 0.002 and 0.012 inch. This provides room for adequate gas flow while still preventing propagation of any ;
flame from autside the vent back into the battery.
:
,, 1~)4431~
Figure 3 shows the second member of Figure 2 viewed from the top. It illustrates the flat area 16 of the second member over which venting gases pass prior to reaching the vent hole. This embodiment can be contrasted with the embodiments illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, which have a groove in the second member which channels venting gases directly to the vent hole. Also shown is the inner periphery 17 of the second member -to which the first member may be sonic welded.
Figure 4 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the second member wherein the battery gases pass between the first and second members via a narrow passage comprising a `
shallow groove 18 in the second member which provides communic- -~
ation between a vent hole in the first member and the void ~-space 13 of the second member. In this embodiment it is preferred that the first member be fastened tightly against the second member to avoid any flexing action. This is easily accomplished by sonic welding the two members together at `' various locations 19, as well as around the periphery of the first member. The purpose of the shallow groove 18 is to pro-vide dimensionally controlled flow of the gases which would be defeated by flexure of the first member.
Figure 5 illustrates the most preferred embodiment of the second member for a gang-type vent. It differs from `-that shown in Figure 4 only in the configuration of the narrow passage. This embodiment employs a cross-shaped narrow passage 21 comprising the intersection of two g~nerally straight shallow grooves in the second member, wherein each cross-shaped narrow passage is separately located between two adjacent bosses. One of i-the two intersecting shallow grooves provides communication between the void space within the two adjacent bosses. The other shallow groove provides communication with at least one ~l~44317 vent hole in the first member, preferably a plurality of vent holes. It is also preferred that all vent holes be located such that every molecule of venting gases must travel throu~h the narrow passage a distance of at least 0.18 inch. This applies to all embodiments of this invention. Shorter paths would lessen the ability of the battery vent to prevent flame propagation back into the battery. Also, the depth of each shallow groove should be at least 0.001 inch to allow free flow of gases but not more than 0.015 inch to prevent flame propagation.
No restrictions on the width of the narrow passage are known.
Also, as indicated in Figure 4, the first member should remain close as poss~ble to the second member during operation, thus soqUir$ng additional ~eld loc-~ion8 19.
Figure 6 shows a side vie~ of the mo~t proforred embodiment of the first member for a gang-type battery vent.
This design is the same as that shown in Figure 2. Shown is the generally flat portion 6 of the first member with a thickness of 0.03 inch, the vent hole locations 7, and the downwardly -protruding cylinders (baffles) 12. The material of the first member is polypropylene, as is the second member, but the invention should not be construed as being llmited to any specific material.
Figure 7 shows a plan view of the first member as viewed from above. It illustrates two sets of three possible locations for vent holes. Any combination of vent holes may be ~ -used, providing there is at least one vent hole for each narrow ;
passage located between adjacent bosses. As indicated in this figure and those previously described, it is preferred that the vent holes be located in the first member and the shallow grooves be located in the second member. This, however, may be reversed without exceeding the scope of this invention. The primary purpose for venting gases through the first member is that there : : - .
. .
` `` 10~3i7 are no pockets within the exterior of the first member in which vented gases could collect. Underneath the second member, how-ever, there are places where the hydrogen might be trapped, causing an explosion hazard. The size of the vent holes may vary between 0.01 inch to 0.13 inch in diameter. In the prefer-red embodiment the vent hole diameter is 0.03 inch, there being four symmetrically-spaced vent holes.
Figure 8 shows a side view of a single-cell battery vent of the screw-on variety. The means by which flame propagation is retarded in this embodiment is the same as that for the gang-type battery vent of Figure 2, i.e. the venting battery gases pass between a narrow passage formed between first and second members. Shown in this figure are two optional protrusions 5 which contain the vent holes located on the first ;
member, finger grips 22 located around the periphery of the first member, and the threaded cylinder 23 of the second member which s~rews into the battery cell cover ~lid).
Figure 9 is a plan view of the first member viewed from inside the battery. Shown is the generally flat surface ~ -24 of the first member, the vent holes 7, and a linear rib or protrusion 26 which protrudes inwardly about .063 inch to engage a corresponding slot of the second member. The linear rib is normal to an imaginary line connecting the two vent holes to .
assure that all points along the rib are no closer to either vent hole than the center of the rib, which is about .041 inch away. This assures that every molecule of venting gases must travel through the narrow passage at least that distance before being vented through the vent hole. As with the previously described embodiments, the shortest pathway a venting molecule can take must be at least 0.18 inch. The manner in which this embodiment functions is similar to the embodiment of Figure 2 -_ g _ "' and will be more clearly described in Figure 12.
Figure 10 is a plan view of the second member viewed from inside the battery. Shown in a generally flat surface 27 of the second member, the threaded cylinder 23, and the afore-mentioned slot 28 which is adapted to accept the protrusion 26 of the first member.
Figure 11 is a side view of the second member, show- ~
ing the generally flat surface 27, the slot 28, and the threaded ~ -cylinder 23. ~
Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the assembl- -ed battery vent of Figure 8 and most clearly illustrates the operation of the vent. Battery gases evolved from within the cell pass into the threaded cylinder 23 and subsequently through the slot 28. Since the slot is partially obstructed by the protrusion 26 of the first member, the gases ~ust squeeze ;
between the slot and the protrusion in order t~ leave the threaded cylinder cavity. The gases then pass b~tween generally flat surfaces 24 and 27 which are forced apart by internal pressure creating a narrow passage. The gases then exit through the -vent holes 7, which can be raised slightly above surface 24 in order to reduce the dhances of being plugged by grease and grime which is likely to be deposited on top of the vent surface 24.
A gasket 29 is used to tightly seal the battery vent to the cell opening.
It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that many variations may be made in the embodiments chosen for purposes of illustration without departing from the scope of the invention.
Claims (16)
1. A battery vent comprising:
a) a first member;
b) a second member positioned closely adjacent to said first member;
c) a vent means;
d) a narrow passage formed between said first and second members in gaseous communication with said vent means, saia narrow passage having a depth between 0.001 and 0.015 inch and a length such that venting gases must travel at least 0.18 inch through said narrow passage; and e) means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass from the battery to said narrow passage, wherein said battery vent acts to inhibit battery explosions.
a) a first member;
b) a second member positioned closely adjacent to said first member;
c) a vent means;
d) a narrow passage formed between said first and second members in gaseous communication with said vent means, saia narrow passage having a depth between 0.001 and 0.015 inch and a length such that venting gases must travel at least 0.18 inch through said narrow passage; and e) means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass from the battery to said narrow passage, wherein said battery vent acts to inhibit battery explosions.
2. The battery vent of Claim 1 wherein said vent means is at least one vent hole in at least one of said members.
3. The battery vent of Claim 1 or 2 wherein each vent means has a diameter from 0.01 to 0.13 inch.
4. The battery vent of Claim 1 or 2 wherein each vent means has a diameter of approximately 0.03 inch.
5. The battery vent of Claim 1 or 2 wherein the narrow passage is formed by a shallow groove in the second member.
6. The battery vent of Claim 2 wherein said second member has three depending bosses adapted to be inserted into a battery and two cross-shaped shallow grooves separately located between adjacent bosses forming a cross-shaped narrow passage between said first and second members.
7. The battery vent of Claim 6 wherein said first member has three downwardly extending cylinders adapted for insertion into the corresponding boss of the second member and from 1 to 3 vent holes located between adjacent cylinders.
8. The battery vent of Claim 7 wherein the distance between the downwardly extending cylinder and the inner wall of the boss is from 0.002 to 0.015 inch.
9. The battery vent of Claim 8 wherein the means for attachment to a battery resides in flexible annular folds or bellows around each boss which allow the battery vent to adjust to center-to-center errors in the battery cell cover.
10. The battery vent of Claim 2 wherein said first member is flexible and attached to said second member in such a manner to leave substantially no clearance between correspond-ing portions of said first and second members, wherein substantially all gas generated within a battery vents through a narrow passage formed between said first and second members when internal pressure forces the first member to flex.
11. The battery vent of Claim 10 wherein said flexure of the first member results in a separation of 0.002 to 0.012 inch from the second member.
12. The battery vent of Claim 11 wherein the diameter of each vent hole is from 0.01 to 0.13 inch.
13. The battery vent of Claim 12 which is single-cell battery vent.
14. The battery vent of Claim 13 wherein said first member has two vent holes and a rib or protrusion located midway therebetween, wherein said second member has a slot or hole adapted to engage said rib or protrusion to assure proper alignment, and wherein venting gas passes through said slot prior to passing through the narrow passage and out the vent holes.
15. The battery vent of Claim 14 wherein the means for attachment to a battery is a threaded cylinder adapted to be screwed into a battery lid.
16. A battery lid comprising:
a) a first member;
b) a second member which is an integral part of the battery and positioned closely adjacent to said first member;
c) at least one vent hole in said first member;
d) a narrow passage formed between said first and second members in gaseous communication with said vent hole(s), said narrow passage having a length such that venting gases must travel at least 0.18 inch through said narrow passage and a depth between 0.001 and 0.015 inch; and e) means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass from the battery to said narrow passage, wherein said battery lid acts to inhibit battery explosions.
a) a first member;
b) a second member which is an integral part of the battery and positioned closely adjacent to said first member;
c) at least one vent hole in said first member;
d) a narrow passage formed between said first and second members in gaseous communication with said vent hole(s), said narrow passage having a length such that venting gases must travel at least 0.18 inch through said narrow passage and a depth between 0.001 and 0.015 inch; and e) means on said second member for attachment to a battery through which gas can pass from the battery to said narrow passage, wherein said battery lid acts to inhibit battery explosions.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US54503275A | 1975-01-29 | 1975-01-29 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1044317A true CA1044317A (en) | 1978-12-12 |
Family
ID=24174606
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA236,227A Expired CA1044317A (en) | 1975-01-29 | 1975-09-24 | Battery vent |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1044317A (en) |
-
1975
- 1975-09-24 CA CA236,227A patent/CA1044317A/en not_active Expired
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US4010044A (en) | Battery vent | |
| US4121017A (en) | Portable rechargeable lead-acid battery | |
| US4346151A (en) | Multicell sealed rechargeable battery | |
| US4444853A (en) | Storage battery construction | |
| US4371591A (en) | Manifold vented battery cover | |
| JP7172076B2 (en) | power storage device | |
| US4463069A (en) | Battery venting system | |
| US4916034A (en) | Battery vent strip | |
| US4306002A (en) | Multiple cell vent cap for a storage battery | |
| US4168350A (en) | Explosion resistant battery cover design | |
| JP2002151025A (en) | Assembled battery pack | |
| JP2017050125A (en) | Lead acid storage battery | |
| US5691076A (en) | Leak proof venting system for electric storage battery | |
| GB2042249A (en) | Cover for storage battery | |
| US5702840A (en) | Vent cap for a lithium battery | |
| US4778735A (en) | Storage battery gang vent cap | |
| US5419983A (en) | Lead acid battery | |
| CA1044317A (en) | Battery vent | |
| US4186247A (en) | Vented battery cap | |
| US3802597A (en) | Battery container cover | |
| US5543244A (en) | Electrochemical storage device | |
| US6066411A (en) | Cover device for a storage battery | |
| BRPI0601488B1 (en) | “ACCUMULATOR BATTERY AND ACCUMULATOR BATTERY COVER” | |
| JPH0535579Y2 (en) | ||
| CN221596717U (en) | Cover plate assembly, battery and electronic equipment |