EP4710382A1

EP4710382A1 - Method for mitigating effects of gasses released from battery components

Info

Publication number: EP4710382A1
Application number: EP24842508.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Sean S. Troutt; David STROBEL
Original assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
Current assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
Priority date: 2023-07-14
Filing date: 2024-06-28
Publication date: 2026-03-18
Also published as: KR20260041682A; WO2025017399A1; CN121241465A

Abstract

A system for mitigating and limiting the effects of fluids released from battery components. The system comprises a base having a plurality of outlets, the base coupled with a battery module housing, the battery module housing configured to house a battery module, wherein the plurality of outlets are arranged in a configuration across the base. The system also comprises one or more nozzles configured to receive a suppressant agent and provide the suppressant agent to the base, where in response to a runaway event at the battery module, the base is configured to interface with an expellant fluid from the battery module to cool the expellant fluid.

Description

METHOD FOR MITIGATING EFFECTS OF GASSES RELEASED FROM BATTERY COMPONENTS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/513,758, filed July 14, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to fire suppression or mitigation systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a fire suppression or mitigation system for batteries. Modem battery technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries, are desirable for use in many energy storage applications due to their high energy density. However, the materials used in such batteries can be quite flammable and can produce flammable gasses (e.g., when overheating). Once the batteries ignite or overheat, the resultant gasses can be difficult to suppress or cool due to their large volume, high pressure, and high temperatures, making it difficult to control the affect of the resultant gasses on adjacent battery components.

SUMMARY

[0003] One embodiment of the present disclosure is a system for mitigating and limiting the effects of fluids released from battery components. The system comprises a base having a plurality of outlets, the base coupled with a battery module housing, the battery module housing configured to house a battery module, wherein the plurality of outlets are arranged in a configuration across the base. The system also comprises one or more nozzles configured to receive a suppressant agent and provide the suppressant agent to the base, where in response to a runaway event at the battery module, the base is configured to interface with an expellant fluid from the battery module to cool the expellant fluid.

[0004] Another embodiment of the present disclosure is a battery pack. The battery pack includes a housing defining a volume, and a battery module arranged within the housing, where the battery module comprises a plurality of battery cells configured to provide an electrical output. The battery pack also includes a base having a surface and a plurality of outlets, the base coupled with the battery module, where the plurality of outlets are arranged in a configuration across the surface. The battery pack further includes one or more nozzles configured to receive a suppressant agent and provide the suppressant agent to the base, where in response to a runaway event at the battery module, the surface is configured to contact an expellant fluid from the battery module to deliver the expellant fluid through the plurality of outlets and to cool the expellant fluid.

[0005] Another embodiment of the present disclosure is a vehicle. The vehicle includes a chassis, a plurality of tractive elements coupled with the chassis, and a prime mover coupled with the plurality of tractive elements, the prime mover configured to drive the plurality of tractive elements to propel the vehicle, and a battery pack coupled with the prime mover. The battery pack includes a housing defining a volume and a battery module arranged within the housing, where the battery module comprises a plurality of battery cells configured to provide an electrical output. The battery pack also includes a base having a plurality of outlets, the base coupled with the battery module, where the plurality of outlets are arranged in a configuration across the base. The battery pack also includes one or more nozzles configured to receive a suppressant agent and provide the suppressant agent to the base, where in response to a runaway event at the battery module, the base is configured to interface with an expellant fluid from the battery module to cool the expellant fluid.

[0006] This summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other aspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices or processes described herein will become apparent in the detailed description set forth herein, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0007] The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:

[0008] FIG. l is a schematic diagram of a battery system, according to an embodiment. [0009] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a control system for the battery system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a left side view of a vehicle utilizing the battery system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a containerized energy storage system including the battery system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a top view of a base of a system for mitigating the effects of released gasses, according to an embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a top view of a base of a system for mitigating the effects of released gasses, according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a top view of a base of a system for mitigating the effects of released gasses, according to an embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a top view of a base of a system for mitigating the effects of released gasses, according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a system for mitigating the effects of released gasses with the battery system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a front view of the mitigation system of FIG. 9 with the battery system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the mitigation system of FIG. 10 with a component of the battery system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a front view of the mitigation system of FIG. 11, according to an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a side view of the mitigation system of FIG. 11, according to an embodiment. [0021] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the mitigation system of FIG. 10 with a component of the battery system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 15 is a top view of the mitigation system of FIG. 14, according to an embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 16 is a side view of the mitigation system of FIG. 14, according to an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the mitigation system of FIG. 10 with a component of the battery system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the mitigation system of FIG. 17, according to an embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 19 is a side view of the mitigation system of FIG. 17, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Before turning to the figures, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0028] Referring generally to the FIGURES, systems and methods for mitigating, limiting, or preventing the effects of gasses released from battery components is shown and described. The system can include a base having a plurality of outlets configured to be variously sized, spaced, and/or arranged throughout the base. The system also includes one or more nozzles, for example to provide a suppressant agent to the base (e.g., to coat, cover, etc. the base). The base may further be configured to couple one or more components of a battery pack, for example a battery module housing (e.g., housing a plurality of battery modules). In an exemplary embodiment, in response to a failure or thermal runaway event at a battery module (e.g., within the battery module housing), the base and/or the outlets is/are configured to interface with an expellant fluid (e.g., resultant gas, suppressant liquid, etc.) from the battery module, for example to cool the expellant fluid. For example, the base (and/or outlets) may be configured to interface with the expellant fluid (e.g., resultant gas) to increase a surface area of the expellant gas, thereby increasing the heat absorption by the suppressant agent to cool the expellant fluid. Further, the base (and/or the outlets) may be configured to interface with the expellant fluid (e.g., resultant gas) to dilute one or more components of the expellant fluid (e.g., flammable gases, compounds, liquids, etc.) to reduce the flammable characteristics of the expellant fluid. In this regard, the systems described herein may be configured to reduce or mitigate the thermal effects of resultant gasses on adjacent or nearby battery pack components, for example as one or more battery pack components experience a failure or thermal runaway event.

[0029] As noted above, battery technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries, are often desirable for use in energy storage applications due to their high energy density. However, the materials used in batteries can produce heat and/or flammable gasses, which may result in a failure or thermal runaway event within a component of the battery pack. During a failure or thermal runaway, the expelled gasses may be difficult to cool or control, for example due to their high temperatures, high volume, and/or high pressure. Further, in instances where flooding or submerging the battery component with a suppressant agent is employed, often the molecular makeup of the suppressant agent is insufficient (e.g., too large) to effectively cool the expelled gasses, and/or the velocity of submerging the battery pack results in large amounts of agent overflow leading to inefficient cooling or heat absorption.

[0030] Advantageously, the system of the present application provides components that are configured to mitigate, limit, and/or prevent the effects of gasses released from battery components. For example, the system can include an interface or base (e.g., a steel plate) that includes a plurality of outlets. The base may be configured to be covered, coated, or impregnated with a suppressant agent (e.g., a wetting agent, a chemical agent, a dry agent, etc.), for example via a nozzle or delivery device. In a circumstance where a component of the battery pack is experiencing a failure or runaway event (e.g., an expellant gas is generated), the base (e.g., outlets) may be configured to interface with the expellant gas, for example to increase the overall surface area of the expellant gas. The suppressant agent on the base may be configured to interact with the expellant gas, for example to cool the gas. In this regard, as a result of the increased surface area of the resultant gas (e.g., as a result of the interface with the base), the system of the present application may more quickly cool and/or increase heat absorption of the expellant compared to if the gasses had not interfaced with components of the present application.

[0031] In some instances, the base is positioned relative to components of the battery pack. For example, the base may be positioned at an opening of the module housing (e.g., to cover the opening), or at a vent at the opening of the module housing (e.g., at an external opening of the vent, within the vent, etc.). The system may further include a duct or vent duct, which may be configured to house (e.g., cover, include, etc.) the opening, the base, and/or the vent. Following expellant gas interfacing with the base, the expellant gas may move (further) toward an exterior of the housing, and to the vent duct. The vent duct may be configured to receive the gas expelled through the base, and direct the expelled gas in a direction (e.g., outward, upward, etc.) away from the housing. In this regard, the vent duct may be configured to receive and/or direct movement of resultant gasses (e.g., away from the housing, the battery modules, etc.) to reduce or mitigate the thermal effect of the resultant gasses on adjacent or nearby battery pack components.

System Overview

[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, a power system or battery system, shown as system 10, includes an energy storage device, energy storage assembly, battery assembly, power source, or electrical energy source, shown as battery pack 20, according to an exemplary embodiment. The battery pack 20 is configured to store energy (e.g., chemically) and later discharge the stored energy as electrical energy to power one or more electrical loads (e.g., electric motors, resistive elements, lights, speakers, etc.). In some embodiments, the battery pack 20 is rechargeable using electrical energy (e.g., from an electrical grid, from a fuel cell, from a solar panel, from an electrical motor being driven as a generator, etc.).

[0033] The battery pack 20 includes a shell or housing, shown as pack housing 22, that defines a volume containing components of the battery pack 20 (e.g., the subpacks 30). The pack housing 22 may seal the components of the battery pack 20 from the surrounding environment (e.g., limiting or preventing ingress of water or dust). The pack housing 22 may define one or more ports to facilitate transfer of electrical energy, coolant, fire suppressant, or other material into or out of the battery pack 20.

[0034] The battery pack 20 includes a series of battery portions or sections, shown as subpacks 30. By way of example, the battery pack 20 may include four subpacks 30. In other embodiments, the battery pack 20 includes more or fewer subpacks 30. Each subpack 30 is configured to store a portion of the stored energy of the battery pack 20. Each subpack 30 includes a housing 32 containing components of the subpack 30 (e.g., the battery modules 40).

[0035] Each subpack 30 includes a series of battery portions or sections, shown as battery modules 40. By way of example, each subpack 30 may include eight battery modules 40. In other embodiments, each subpack 30 includes more or fewer battery modules 40. Each battery module 40 is configured to store a portion of the stored energy of the corresponding subpack 30. Each battery module 40 includes a housing 42 containing components of the battery module 40 (e.g., the battery cells 50).

[0036] Each battery module 40 includes a series of battery portions or sections, shown as battery cells 50. By way of example, each battery module 40 may include hundreds of battery cells 50. In other embodiments, each battery module 40 includes more or fewer battery cells 50. Each battery cell 50 is configured to store a portion of the energy stored by the corresponding battery module 40.

[0037] In some embodiments, the battery cells 50 are lithium-ion (i.e., Li-ion) battery cells. Each battery cell 50 may be configured to receive electrical energy, store the received energy chemically, and release the stored electrical energy. As shown in FIG. 1, the battery cells 50 are arranged in rows adjacent one another within the battery module 40, reducing empty space within the battery module 40 and reducing the overall size of the battery pack 20. The battery cells 50 may be cylindrical cells, prismatic cells, pouch cells, or another form factor of battery cells. [0038] The battery cells 50 may be electrically coupled to one another within the battery pack 20. By way of example, in one arrangement (a) the battery cells 50 within each battery module 40 are electrically coupled to one another, (b) the battery modules 40 within each subpack 30 are electrically coupled to one another, and (c) the subpacks 30 are electrically coupled to one another. The collective arrangement of battery cells 50, battery modules 40, and subpacks 30 is electrically coupled to a connector or port, shown as electrical port 60. The electrical port 60 electrically couples the battery cells 50 to one or more electrical sources and/or loads, shown as electrical loads/sources 62. The battery cells 50 may be discharged through the electrical port 60 to power the electrical loads/sources 62. The battery cells 50 may receive electrical energy through the electrical port 60 to charge the battery cells 50.

[0039] The battery cells 50, the battery modules 40, and the subpacks 30 may be arranged in series/parallel to control the output voltage of the battery pack 20 at the electrical port 60 and the capacity of the battery pack 20 at that output voltage. Battery cells 50 may be arranged in series with one another to increase an output voltage of the battery pack 20. Battery cells 50 may be arranged in parallel with one another to increase the capacity (e.g., measured in amp- hours) of the battery pack 20. By way of example, the battery modules 40 within each subpack 30 may be connected to one another in series, forming a string. The subpacks 30 may be connected to one another in parallel, such that the strings are connected in parallel.

[0040] In other embodiments, the battery pack 20 is otherwise arranged. By way of example, the battery pack 20 may include more or fewer battery cells 50, battery modules 40, and/or subpacks 30. By way of another example, the battery cells 50, battery modules 40, and/or subpacks 30 may be arranged in rows, columns, helical patterns, or otherwise positioned within the pack housing 22. In some embodiments, the subpacks 30 are omitted, and the battery modules 40 are positioned directly within the battery pack 20.

[0041] In some embodiments, the system 10 includes a cooling subsystem, shown as cooling system 70. The cooling system 70 includes a coolant source 72 that is configured to supply a flow of coolant to one or more conduits, shown as cooling channels 74. The coolant source 72 may include pumps, reservoirs, valves, and/or other components that facilitate handling the coolant. The coolant source 72 may also include one or more radiators or heat exchangers that facilitate discharging thermal energy from the coolant (e.g., to the surrounding atmosphere).

[0042] The cooling channels 74 pass into the pack housing 22 at an inlet 76 and exit the pack housing 22 at an outlet 78. The cooling channels 74 pass through the housings 32 of the subpacks 30 and the housings 42 of the battery modules 40 and pass adjacent (e.g., in contact with) the battery cells 50. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cooling channels 74 is contained within and/or pass along the walls of the pack housing 22, the housings 32, and/or housings 42. The cooling channels 74 facilitate conduction between the coolant and the battery cells 50, such that thermal energy generated by the battery cells 50 (e.g., when charging or discharging electrical energy) is transferred to the coolant. The flow of coolant then transfers the thermal energy back to the coolant source 72 to be discharged.

Accordingly, the cooling system 70 facilitates maintaining a consistent, low operating temperature of the battery pack 20.

[0043] In some embodiments, the system 10 further includes a fire suppression system, fire prevention system, or fire mitigation system, shown as suppression system 80. The suppression system 80 is configured to address fires within the battery pack 20 by supplying a fire suppressant. The suppressant may suppress active fires (e.g., preventing the fire from accessing oxygen). The suppressant may also cool the battery cells 50, preventing later ignition or reignition of the battery cells. The suppression system 80 may advantageously prevent, address, or otherwise mitigate thermal runaway of the battery cells 50.

[0044] The suppression system 80 includes a container of suppressant (e.g., a tank, a vessel, a cartridge, a reservoir, etc.) or fire suppressant source, shown as suppressant container 82. The suppressant may be held at an elevated pressure to facilitate dispensing the suppressant. The suppressant may include a gas (e.g., an inert gas, nitrogen, etc.), a liquid suppressant (e.g., water), a gel suppressant, a dry chemical suppressant, another type of suppressant, or combinations thereof.

[0045] The suppression system 80 further includes an actuator, shown as activator 84, that is configured to initiate a transfer (e.g., a flow) of fire suppressant from the suppressant container 82 to the battery pack 20. By way of example, the activator 84 may include a valve or seal puncture actuator that selectively permits suppressant to flow out of the suppressant container 82. By way of another example, the activator 84 may include a pump that is configured to impel the flow of suppressant.

[0046] The suppression system 80 further includes one or more conduits (e.g., pipes, hoses, tubes, etc.), shown as distribution network 86, that is configured to transfer suppressant from the suppressant container 82 to the battery pack 20. The distribution network 86 may transfer the suppressant to the interior of the battery pack 20 (e.g., inside the pack housing 22, inside the housing 32, inside the housing 42, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, the distribution network 86 may transfer the suppressant to the exterior of the battery pack 20. By way of example, the distribution network 86 may provide the suppressant to an outlet, shown as nozzle 88, that is positioned to direct suppressant to the exterior of the pack housing 22.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 2, a control system 100 of the system 10 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The control system 100 includes a processing circuit, shown as controller 102, including a processor 104 and a memory 106. The processor 104 may execute one or more instructions stored within the memory 106 to perform any of the functions described herein.

[0048] As shown, the controller 102 is operatively coupled to the battery pack 20, the electrical loads/sources 62, and the activator 84. The controller 102 may be configured to control operation of the battery pack 20 (e.g., as a battery management system), the electrical loads/sources 62, the suppression system 80, or any other component of the system 10. By way of example, the controller 102 may control charging and/or discharging of the battery pack 20. By way of another example, the controller 102 may control activation of the suppression system 80 to address one or more fires.

[0049] The control system 100 further includes one or more sensors, shown as battery sensors 110, operatively coupled to the controller 102. The battery sensors 110 may be configured to provide sensor data measuring one or more parameters related to the performance of the battery pack 20. By way of example, the battery sensors 110 may measure a current, voltage, and/or charge level within the battery pack 20. The battery sensors 110 may measure performance at the battery cell 50 level, the battery module 40 level, the subpack 30 level, and/or the battery pack 20 level. In some embodiments, the controller 102 is configured to use information from the battery sensors 110 to detect or predict a thermal event (e.g., a fire) associated with the battery pack 20. By way of example, the controller 102 may identify a change in measured current, voltage, or charge level that is indicative of a fire.

[0050] The control system 100 further includes one or more sensors, shown as thermal event sensors 112, configured to detect or predict a thermal event (e.g., a fire) associated with the battery pack 20. By way of example, the thermal event sensors 112 may include temperature sensors configured to detect an increase in temperature (e.g., of one of the battery cells 50) associated with a fire or a prediction of a fire. By way of another example, the thermal event sensors 112 may include an aspirating smoke detector that is configured to identify the presence of smoke or a gas that is produced (e.g., offgassed) when the battery cells 50 are above the standard operating temperature range. By way of another example, the thermal event sensors 112 may include an optical sensor that detects light produced by a fire.

[0051] In response to detection or prediction of a fire, the controller 102 may activate the suppression system 80 to address (e.g., prevent or suppress) the fire. By way of example, the controller 102 may actuate the activator 84 to direct suppressant to the battery pack 20. This suppressant may enter and/or surround the battery pack 20, addressing the fire.

[0052] Although a single controller 102 is shown in FIG. 2, it should be understood that the functionality of the controller 102 may be distributed across two or more separate controllers in communication with one another. By way of example, a first controller (e.g., a battery controller) may be dedicated for the battery management (e.g., controlling power usage from the battery cells 50 and charging of the battery cells 50). A second controller (e.g., a fire system controller) may be dedicated for management of the fire suppression system 80 (e.g., control over the activator 84 and the thermal event sensors 112). The two controllers would have the ability to communicate with each other such that when the fire system controller detects a fire, the fire system controller provides a signal to the battery controller. This signal commands the battery controller to disconnect or shut down usage of the affected batteries (e.g., battery packs 20, subpacks 30, battery modules 40, and/or battery cells 50) prior to discharging the fire suppression system 80.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 3, a vehicle 130 is equipped with the battery system 10, according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown, the vehicle 130 is configured as a mining vehicle. Specifically, the vehicle 130 is configured as a front end loader. In other embodiments, the vehicle 130 is configured as another type of vehicle, such as a forestry vehicle, a passenger vehicle (e.g., a bus), a boat, or yet another type of vehicle.

[0054] The vehicle 130 includes a frame, shown as chassis 132, that is coupled to and supports a battery pack 20 and a pair of suppressant containers 82. The vehicle 130 includes a series of tractive elements (e.g., wheel and tire assemblies), shown as tractive elements 134, that are rotatably coupled to the chassis 132. The tractive elements 134 engage a support surface (e.g., the ground) to support the vehicle 130. The tractive elements 134 are coupled to a series of electric actuators or prime movers, shown as drive motors 136. The drive motors 136 are configured to drive the tractive elements 134 to propel the vehicle 130. In some embodiments, the drive motors 136 are electrically coupled to the battery pack 20. The drive motors 136 may consume electrical energy from the battery pack 20 (e.g., when propelling the vehicle 130) and/or provide electrical energy to charge the battery pack 20 (e.g., when performing regenerative braking).

[0055] The vehicle 130 further includes an operator compartment or cabin, shown as cab 140, that is coupled to the chassis 132. The cab 140 may be configured to contain one or more operators of the vehicle 130. The cab 140 may include one or more user interface elements (e.g., steering wheels, pedals, shifters, switches, knobs, dials, screens, indicators, etc.) that facilitate operation of the vehicle 130 by an operator.

[0056] The vehicle 130 further includes an implement assembly 150 coupled to the chassis 132. As shown, the implement assembly 150 includes an implement, shown as bucket 152. The implement assembly 150 further includes one or more actuators (e.g., electric motors, electric linear actuators, etc.), shown as implement actuators 154, that are configured to cause movement of the bucket 152 relative to the chassis 132. The implement actuators 154 may be electrically coupled to the battery pack 20. The implement actuators 154 may consume electrical energy from the battery pack 20 (e.g., when moving the bucket 152) and/or provide electrical energy to charge the battery pack 20 (e.g., when slowing the movement of the bucket 152).

[0057] Referring to FIG. 4, a containerized energy storage system, shown as container system 160, is equipped with the battery system 10, according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, the container system 160 is configured to store energy to power one or more external electrical loads. The container system 160 may be portable (e.g., using a crane, using a container ship, using a semi truck, etc.).

[0058] As shown, the container system 160 includes a container, shown as shipping container 162, defining an internal volume 164. The internal volume 164 is selectively accessible from outside of the shipping container 162 through one or more doors 166. The internal volume 164 contains a series of battery packs 20 coupled to the shipping container 162. The battery packs 20 may be electrically coupled to one another, providing a large energy storage capacity.

Systems and Methods for Mitigating Effects of Thermal Runaway

[0059] Referring generally to FIGS. 5-19, a system 500 for mitigating, limiting, or preventing the effects of gasses released from battery components is shown and described. According to an exemplary embodiment, the system 500 is coupled to and/or integrated with one or more components of a battery pack (e.g., a housing, a subpack, a battery module, a battery pack, etc.), as discussed below. The system 500 may be configured to interface with a fluid (e.g., a gas, a liquid, etc.), for example a gas released from a component of a battery pack during a failure or thermal runaway event. According to an exemplary embodiment, the system 500 includes components that are configured to interface with (e.g., contact, engage, etc.) the fluid to separate the fluid (e.g., split, divide, part, etc. the fluid into smaller bubbles or fluid portions, etc.), for example to increase the surface area of the gas and/or provide an increased surface area for heat absorption. In this regard, the system 500 may be configured to cool and/or increase absorption of heat from gasses released from components of a battery pack (e.g., during a failure or thermal runaway event), so as to mitigate, limit, and/or prevent the effects of the gasses on other components of the battery pack. [0060] It should be understood that while “fluid” is described herein as being resultant gasses or liquids produced and/or release by components of a battery pack (e.g., during a failure or thermal runaway event), “fluid” may refer to any suitable substance having no fixed shape and/or that yields to an external pressure (e.g., any suitable gas, liquid, etc.). For example, fluid may refer to gasses or a volume of gas that experiences a change in characteristic or condition within the battery pack (e.g., heated, pressurized, moved, expelled, etc.). Fluid may also refer to water, a suppressant agent, or a portion of water or suppressant agent (e.g., wetting agent, liquid agent, dry or chemical agent, etc.) within a battery pack and/or that is delivered to a battery pack. As discussed herein, the any of the fluids may be configured to interface with components of the system 500 (e.g., a base, an interface, an outlet, etc.), for example to separate the fluid into smaller portions (e.g., groups, molecules, etc.) to increase the overall surface are of the fluid, and increase heat absorption to more quickly and efficiently cool the fluid.

[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 5-8, the system 500 is shown to include a substrate, an interface, an interface base, or an interface foundation, shown as a base 502. In an exemplary embodiment, the base 502 is a plate formed of a thermal resistant material, for example a metal. The base 502 may be formed of steel, stainless steel, titanium, tungsten, cobalt, etc., and/or another suitable metal. The base 502 may be planar, and may have a rectangular structure, as shown in at least FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the base 502 is non-planar (e.g., arced, curved, semi-circular, a wavey configuration, etc.) and/or has another configuration or shape, for example cylindrical (as shown in at least FIG. 18), cone-shaped, prismatic shaped, or another suitable configuration. In other embodiments, the base 502 is another suitable shape (e.g., square, circle, oval, triangular, etc.) and/or formed of another suitable material. In some embodiments, the base 502 is formed of a plurality of base portions (e.g., 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, etc. base portions). It should be understood that while the base 502 is described as being a rectangular plate formed of metal (e.g., steel, etc.), other suitable form factors and/or configurations are contemplated (e.g., cylindrical, a wool or cotton ball-like configuration, a screen, fine wire, heavy wire, a fine or heavy wire screen, etc.).

[0062] According to an exemplary embodiment, the base 502 includes a face, a plane, or an exterior, shown as a surface 504. In an exemplary embodiment, the surface 504 is configured to receive a suppressant agent (e.g., a liquid suppressant, a gel suppressant, a dry chemical suppressant, or a combination thereof), for example to facilitate heat absorption from an expelled fluid (e.g., gas, liquid, etc.) as the fluid interfaces with the base 502 and/or moves past the base 502, as discussed below. In some embodiments, the surface 504 is impregnated with a suppressant agent. For example, the surface 504 may include a non-smooth (e.g., textured, etc.) interface configured to receive the suppressant agent. In some embodiments, the surface 504 is coated with a suppressant agent, or a suppressant agent is applied to an exterior of the surface 504. For example, the surface 504 may be coated or sprayed with a suppressant agent by one or more components of the system 500 (e.g., a nozzle, etc.) and/or a component of a suppression system (e.g., a nozzle of the suppression system 80), as discussed below. In some embodiments, the base 502 includes a plurality of surfaces 504, for example on opposing sides of the base (e.g., a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, a rear surface, etc.). In this regard, in some embodiment the base 502 is coated or sprayed with a suppressant agent on a plurality of sides, surfaces, planes, and/or faces.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, the base 502 defines a plurality of openings, apertures, release points, or holes, shown as outlets 506. In an exemplary embodiment, the outlets 506 are configured to permit the flow of a fluid (e.g., a gas, liquid, etc.) through the outlets 506 (e.g., through the base 502). For example, the outlets 506 may permit a flow of gas through the outlets 506 (e.g., a gas expelled from one or more components of a battery pack), as discussed below. In an exemplary embodiment, the outlets 506 are sized, shaped, and/or arranged to interface with (e.g., contact, engage, etc.) the fluid (e.g., gas, liquid, etc.), for example to separate the fluid (e.g., divide, split, partition, etc. the fluid into smaller fluid portions, bubbles, etc.) and/or increase the surface area of the fluid overall. According to an exemplary embodiment, the outlets 506 are circular (as shown in at least FIG. 5); however, in other embodiments the outlets 506 are another suitable shape (e.g., square, triangular, rectangular, oval, crossed, star-shaped, etc.). The outlets 506 may have an open area of 50% or a range of open area (e.g., 45% to 65%, 30% to 45%, 50% to 75%, 50% to 80%, 90% to 95%, or another suitable range). In other embodiments, the open area of the outlets 506 are another suitable amount or range (e.g., 25% to 75%, 15% to 85%, etc.). According to an exemplary embodiment, the open area defined by the outlets 506 and the solid surface of the base 502 define a ratio of the surface area of the base to hole open area (e.g., a ratio of 1 : 1, 0.5: 1, 0.25: 1, 0.1 : 1, 1.5: 1, 1.75: 1, 2:1, etc., or another suitable ratio), for example to facilitate separating the fluid and/or increasing the surface area of the fluid for heat absorption and/or to more efficiently cool the fluid.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 5-8, the base 502 may define outlets 506 having a variety of arrangements and/or configurations. For example, in some embodiments the outlets 506 are arranged in one or more columns and/or one or more rows, which may have uniform spacing (as shown in at least FIG. 5). The outlets 506 may also be arranged in one or more columns and/or one or more rows, which may be staggered or have non-uniform spacing (as shown in at least FIG. 6). In some embodiments, the outlets 506 form one or more clusters or groups at the base 502, for example a series of square clusters (as shown in at least FIG. 7). The outlets 506 (or clusters) may be positioned at or adjacent one or more surfaces or edges of the base 502, for example at opposing lateral edges (as shown in at least FIG. 7). In some embodiments, the outlets 506 form a wave-like pattern or configuration throughout the base 502 (as shown in at least FIG. 8). In other embodiments, the outlets 506 have another suitable pattern and/or configuration (e.g. a polka dot, moroccan, quatrefoil, chevron, honeycomb, houdstooth, fret, herringbone, argyle, ogee, scale, lattice, striped, weaved, cubed, harlequin, etc. pattern). In other embodiments, the outlets 506 are arranged non-uniformly or randomly.

[0065] It should be understood that while FIGS. 5-8 illustrate exemplary arrangements and/or configurations of the outlets 506, in other exemplary embodiments the outlets 506 are arranged in other configurations (e.g., linear, multi-row, nested, face centered cubic, etc.).

[0066] Referring generally to FIGS. 9-19, components of the system 500 are shown along with components of a battery pack (e.g., the battery pack 20 of FIG. 1). As will be discussed herein, components of the system 500 may be coupled to and/or integrated with one or more components of a battery pack (e.g., a housing, a module compartment, a subpack, a battery module, a battery pack, etc.), and may be configured to mitigate, limit, or prevent the effects of gasses released from battery components. It should be understood that while one or more components of the system 500 is/are described herein as being coupled to and/or integrated with a component of a battery pack (e.g., a battery module compartment or housing, etc.), it is contemplated that the components of the system 500 may be coupled to and/or integrated with additional, fewer, or different working components (e.g., a battery pack housing, a subpack housing, etc.).

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 9-10, the system 500 is coupled to and/or integrated with a battery subpack, shown as the subpack 30. As discussed above, the subpack 30 includes a plurality of battery modules (e.g., the battery modules 40). In an exemplary embodiment, the subpack 30 includes a plurality of module compartments or housings, shown as housings 42, and each of the housings 42 include one or more battery modules 40 and/or components thereof. For example, each housing 42 may house three battery modules 40 (as shown in at least FIGS. 10-11), or another suitable number of battery modules 40 (e.g., one, 4, 8, 12, 16, etc.). In some embodiments, the battery module compartments or housings 42 are configured in a stacked configuration (as shown in at least FIGS. 9-10); however, in other embodiments the housings 42 are otherwise configured (e.g., linear, multi-row, nested, etc.). As will be discussed in greater detail below, each housing 42 may define an orifice, a release, an outlet, or a vent, shown as opening 44, for example to permit the flow of a fluid (e.g., an expellant gas, a liquid or suppressant agent, etc.) from an interior of the housing 42 to an exterior of the housing 42 (e.g., during a potential failure or thermal runaway event).

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, the system 500 further includes a distribution or delivery device, shown as a nozzle 508 (as shown in at least FIG. 10). In some embodiments, the system 500 includes a single nozzle 508 (as shown in at least FIGS. 17-19); however, in other embodiments the system 500 includes a plurality of nozzles 508 (as shown in at least FIG. 10). According to an exemplary embodiment, the nozzle 508 is configured to distribute a suppressant agent (e.g., wetting agent, liquid, gas, chemical, etc.) to one or more components of the system 500. For example, the nozzle 508 may be configured to distribute (e.g., provide, spray, etc.) a suppressant agent to the base 502 (e.g., the surface 504), so as to coat or cover the base 502 with the suppressant agent. In some embodiments, the nozzle 508 is in communication (e.g., fluid communication, etc.) with one or more components of a suppression system (e.g., the suppression system 80). For example, the nozzle 508 may be in communication with a suppressant container (e.g., the suppressant container 82), and may be configured to receive the suppressant agent from the suppressant container. In other embodiments, the nozzle 508 is in communication (e.g., fluid communication via a conduit, tube, pipe, etc.) with another system or device (e.g., container, reservoir, etc.), for example a reservoir within the battery pack and/or a remote reservoir to provide the suppressant agent to the nozzle 508.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 9, the system 500 also includes a guide, vent, or conduit, shown as vent duct 512. The vent duct 512 may be coupled with one or more components of the subpack 30 (e.g., the housing 42), and may be configured to direct or guide movement or flow of a fluid (e.g., expelled gas, liquid or foam suppressant agent, etc.). For example, the vent duct 512 may be coupled with a first wall of the subpack 30 (e.g., a front wall, a rear wall, a sidewall, etc.), and may house (e.g., contain, cover, etc.) one or more openings or vents at the first wall of the subpack 30 (e.g., a base 502 at a wall of the housing 42, a vent at a wall of the housing 42, as discussed below). Further, the vent duct 512 may be configured to receive gas expelled from the housings 42 (e.g., via the opening, vent, through the base 502, from the battery modules 40, etc.), and may guide the expelled gas in a direction (e.g., upward, outward, etc.) away from the housing 42 (e.g., and the battery modules 40 contained therein). In this regard, the vent duct 512 may be configured to receive and/or direct movement of resultant gasses (e.g., away from the housing 42, the battery modules 40, etc.), to reduce or mitigate the thermal effect of the gasses on adjacent or nearby housings 42 and/or battery modules 40.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 11-13, components of the system 500 coupled to and/or integrated with the housing 42 is shown in greater detail, according to some embodiments. As discussed above, in some embodiments the housing 42 defines or includes an orifice or vent, shown as the opening 44, for example to allow movement of a fluid (e.g., expellant gas, etc.) from an interior of the housing 42 to an exterior of the housing 42. The base 502 may be coupled with one or more sidewalls that define the opening 44, for example such that the base 502 fills or covers the opening 44. In some embodiments, the base 502 is integrated with (e.g., a uniform component with or of, etc.) the housing 42, such that the base 502 is part of a component of the housing 42 (e.g., a sidewall, defines the opening 44, etc.). It should be understood that while the housing 42 is shown as including a single opening 44, in some embodiments the housing 42 defines a plurality of orifices or vents (e.g., openings 44, etc.). The openings 44 may be positioned at the housing 42 in any suitable pattern or configuration (e.g., at corners of the housing 42, spaced along a wall of the housing 42, spaced around a perimeter of the housing 42, etc.). In some embodiments, the openings 44 are arranged in different shapes and/or sizes (e.g., a first size to serve as a primary opening, a second size to serve as a secondary opening, etc.).

[0071] It should be understood that while the base 502 is described herein as being coupled to and/or integrated with the housing 42, in other embodiments the base 502 is otherwise arranged and/or configured. For example, the base 502 may be coupled to the housing 42 and extend within an interior of the housing 42 (e.g., laterally between walls, between lateral sidewalls, between a front wall and a rear wall, at a top portion, at a bottom portion, etc.). The base 502 may extend between a front wall and a rear wall, for example between one or more battery modules 40, above one or more battery modules 40, etc. In some embodiments, the system 500 includes a plurality of bases 502 (e.g., integrated or coupled to a sidewall of the housing 42, within an interior of the housing 42, at a top or bottom portion of the housing 42, etc.), which may be configured to be submerged in a suppressant agent and/or coated or covered in a suppressant agent, as discussed below.

[0072] As shown in FIGS. 11-13, the base 502 is positioned at a first wall 46 of the housing 42. In an exemplary embodiment, the first wall 46 is a front or forward wall; however, in other embodiments the first wall 46 is another suitable wall (e.g., a top wall, a rear wall, a lateral sidewall, etc.). The base 502 may be positioned at a top portion of the first wall 46 (as shown in at least FIGS. 11 and 13). The base 502 may be oriented such that the base 502 is planar with (e.g., parallel with) the first wall 46. In some embodiments, the base 502 is otherwise oriented relative to the first wall 46 (e.g., angled relative to, angled at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, etc. degrees), for example to direct (e.g., control, guide, etc.) movement of a fluid from the housing 42 (e.g., toward an exterior of the housing 42). According to an exemplary embodiment, the base 502 is arranged and/or positioned at the housing 42 (e.g., the first wall 46) such that the base 502 is configured to interface with fluid as the fluid moves from an interior of the housing 42 toward an exterior of the housing 42. For example, the base 502 may be positioned at a forward top portion of the first wall 46, so as to interface with high temperature gas as it rises and moves toward an exterior of the housing 42 (as shown in at least FIG. 13). In other embodiments, the base 502 is otherwise positioned and/or oriented relative to components of the housing 42 (e.g., at a rear wall, at a bottom portion, at middle portion, angled relative to the rear wall, etc.). In some embodiments, the system 500 includes a plurality of bases 502, which could be arranged and/or oriented in any suitable configuration (e.g., parallel and arranged in rows, staggered or angled and arranged in rows, offset vertically and/or laterally in rows, angled/inverted, etc.).

[0073] As shown in at least FIG. 12, in an exemplary embodiment the system 500 includes a plurality of nozzles (e.g., two nozzles 508). The nozzles 508 may be positioned at opposing sides of the base 502, and may be configured to deliver (e.g., distribute, provide, etc.) a fire suppressant agent to the base 502 (e.g., the surface 504), as shown in at least FIG. 12. For example, the nozzles 508 may be configured to distribute a suppressant agent (e.g., wetting agent, chemical agent, dry agent, etc.) to coat or cover the base 502 with the suppressant agent. As shown in FIG. 12, the nozzles 508 are at opposing sides of the base 502, for example at opposing edges of the first wall 46 and/or opposing edges/corners of the housing 42. In an exemplary embodiment, the nozzles 508 are configured to distribute fire suppressant agent to an interior portion of the base 502 (e.g., a portion at an interior of the housing 42), for example to facilitate heat absorption as expelled fluid (e.g., gas, etc.) moves toward an exterior of the housing 42 (e.g., through the base 502). In some embodiments, the nozzles 508 are configured (e.g., positioned, oriented, etc.) to distribute fire suppressant agent to an exterior portion of the base 502 (e.g., a portion at an exterior of the housing 42), and/or both at an interior and an exterior portion of the base 502. In some embodiments, the plurality of nozzles 508 include additional or fewer nozzles 508 (e.g., one, three, 5, 10, 15, etc.), which may be otherwise positioned and/or configured (e.g., at a bottom wall or bottom portion of the housing 42, configured to coat a central or middle portion of the base 502, configured to periodically coat the base 502, etc.). For example, the nozzles 508 may be positioned within the housing 42 (e.g., a central portion of a wall of the housing 42, a top portion of a wall of the housing 42, etc.), and/or may distribute fire suppressant agent to another portion of the housing 42 (e.g., to a central portion of the housing 42, over or to cover the battery modules 40 within the housing 42, to an open area or cavity within the housing 42, etc.). In some embodiments, the nozzles 508 are positioned outside the housing 42. For example, the nozzles 508 may be positioned at an interior portion (e.g., an interior surface, etc.) of a vent duct (e.g., the vent duct 512, etc.), for example to distribute fire suppressant agent to an exterior of the housing 42 and/or other components of the system 500 (e.g., an exterior portion of the base 502, a portion of a vent or duct, etc.).

[0074] Referring now to FIGS. 14-16, components of the system 500 coupled to and/or integrated with the housing 42 is shown in greater detail, according to some embodiments. As discussed above, in some embodiments the housing 42 defines or includes an orifice or vent, shown as the opening 44, for example to allow movement of a fluid (e.g., expellant gas, etc.) from an interior of the housing 42 to an exterior of the housing 42.

[0075] As shown in FIGS. 14-16, the system 500 further includes a guide, a conduit, or a duct, shown as a vent 510. In an exemplary embodiment, the vent 510 is coupled to or integrated with the housing 42, and is configured to direct or guide movement or flow of a fluid (e.g., a gas, a liquid, etc.). For example, the vent 510 may be coupled with one or more sidewalls that define the opening 44, and may be configured to guide movement of fluid (e.g., expellant gas, etc.) from the opening 44 toward an exterior of the housing 42. In an exemplary embodiment, the vent 510 is configured to guide movement of fluid in a direction (e.g., upward, outward, etc.), for example away from the housing 42. In this regard, the vent 510 may be configured to receive and/or direct movement of a fluid (e.g., resultant gasses, etc.) to reduce or mitigate the thermal effect of the gasses on adjacent or nearby components (e.g., housings 42, battery modules 40, etc.).

[0076] As shown in FIG. 14, the vent 510 may be positioned at a first wall of the housing 42 (e.g., the first wall 46, a rear wall, a top wall, etc.). The vent 510 may extend from an exterior of the housing 42, and may have a triangular cross-sectional or tapered configuration. In some embodiments, the vent 510 has another suitable shape and/or cross-sectional configuration (e.g., crescent, circular, square, rectangular, semi-circular, curved or arced, ridged, channeled, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, the vent 510 is positioned at a top portion of the first wall 46; however, in some embodiments, the vent 510 is otherwise positioned and/or configured (e.g., at a rear wall, a bottom portion, a middle portion, a sidewall, etc.). The vent 510 may include a first inlet or interior opening (e.g., to receive a fluid), and a second outlet or exterior opening (e.g., to release a fluid). In some embodiments, the vent 510 includes a plurality of inlet or interior openings (e.g., across the first wall 46, along the housing 42), and/or a plurality of outlet or exterior openings. In other embodiments, the system 500 includes a plurality of vents (e.g., vents 510, etc.), which may be arranged and/or configured relative to the housing 42 in any suitable form (e.g., spaced at top and bottom portions, spaced along a plurality of walls of the housing 42, etc.). As discussed above, according to an exemplary embodiment the vent 510 is positioned at the housing 42 such that the vent 510 is configured to guide movement of a fluid from an interior of the housing 42 toward an exterior of the housing 42 (as shown in at least FIG. 16).

[0077] As shown in FIGS. 14-16, the base 502 is coupled with the vent 510. In an exemplary embodiment, the base 502 is coupled at an exterior opening of the vent 510 (e.g., opposing an interior opening, the opening 44 of the housing 42, etc.). For example, the base 502 may be coupled to one or more walls or edges that define an exterior opening of the vent 510, for example such that the base 502 fills or covers the exterior opening of the vent 510. In some embodiments, the base 502 is integrated with (e.g., a uniform component with or of, etc.) the vent 510, such that the base 502 defines an exterior outlet or opening of the vent 510 (e.g., at a top, a sidewall, etc.).

[0078] As shown in FIGS. 14-16, the base 502 may be coupled with the vent 510 such that the base 502 is oriented relative to the first wall 46 of the housing 42. For example, the base 502 may be oriented perpendicular to the first wall 46. In some embodiments, the base 502 is otherwise coupled with the vent 510 (e.g., at a central or middle portion, etc.) such that the base 502 is otherwise oriented relative to the exterior opening of the vent 510 and/or the first wall 46 (e.g., angled relative to, angled at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, etc. degrees), for example to direct (e.g., control, guide, etc.) movement of a fluid from the housing 42 (e.g. from the vent 510). As discussed above, the base 502 may be positioned at the vent 510 such that the base 502 is configured to interface with fluid as the fluid moves from an interior of the housing toward an exterior of the housing 42. For example, the base 502 may be positioned at an exterior opening of the vent 510 to interface with high temperature gas as it rises and moves out of the vent 510 (as shown in at least FIG. 16). In other embodiments, the base 502 is otherwise positioned and/or oriented relative to the vent 510 and/or the housing 42. In some embodiments, the system 500 includes a plurality of bases 502, which could be arranged and/or oriented in any suitable configuration (e.g., parallel and arranged in rows, staggered or angled and arranged in rows, offset vertically and/or laterally in rows, angled/inverted, etc., within the vent 510, coupled with the vent 510, and/or coupled with the housing 502).

[0079] As shown in at least FIG. 15, in an exemplary embodiment the system 500 includes a plurality of nozzles (e.g., two nozzles 508). The nozzles 508 may be positioned at opposing sides of the vent 510, and may be configured to deliver (e.g., distribute, provide, etc.) a fire suppressant agent to the base 502 (e.g., the surface 504). For example, the nozzles 508 may be configured to distribute a suppressant agent (e.g., wetting agent, dry agent, etc.) to coat or cover the base 502 with the suppressant agent. As shown in FIG. 15, the nozzles 508 may be positioned at opposing sides of the vent 510, for example at opposing edges or walls of the vent 510. The nozzles 508 may also be positioned at a middle portion of the edges or walls of the vent 510 (as shown in at least FIG. 16). In an exemplary embodiment, the nozzles 508 are configured to distribute fire suppressant agent to an interior portion of the base 502 (e.g., a portion toward an interior of the vent 510), for example to facilitate heat absorption as expelled fluid (e.g., gas, etc.) moves through the vent 510 toward an exterior of the housing 42 (e.g., through the base 502). In some embodiments, the nozzles 508 are configured to distribute fire suppressant agent to an interior portion of the vent 510 (e.g., interior walls, surfaces, structures, etc.), for example to further facilitate heat absorption. In some embodiments, the nozzles 508 are configured (e.g., positioned, oriented, etc.) to distribute fire suppressant agent to an exterior portion of the base 502 (e.g., a portion at an exterior of the housing 42), and/or both at an interior and an exterior portion of the base 502. It should be understood that the plurality of nozzles 508 may include additional or fewer nozzles 508 (e.g., one, three, 5, 10, 15, etc.), which may be otherwise positioned and/or configured (e.g., at a bottom portion of the vent 510, configured to coat a central or middle portion of the base 502, configured to periodically coat the base 502, etc.).

[0080] Referring now to FIGS. 17-19, components of the system 500 coupled to and/or integrated with the housing 42 is shown in greater detail, according to some embodiments. As discussed above, in some embodiments the housing defines or includes an orifice or vent, shown as the opening 44, for example to allow movement of a fluid (e.g., expellant gas, etc.) from an interior of the housing to an exterior of the housing 42. [0081] As shown in FIGS. 17-19, the system 500 includes a guide, a conduit, or a duct, shown as the vent 510. The vent 510 is coupled to or integrated with the housing 42, and is configured to direct or guide movement or flow of a fluid (e.g., a gas, a liquid, etc.). For example, the vent 510 may be coupled with a sidewall (e.g., the first wall 46) that defines the opening 44, and may be configured to guide movement of fluid (e.g., expellant gas, etc.) from the opening 44 toward an exterior of the housing 42. In an exemplary embodiment, the vent 510 is configured to guide movement of fluid in a direction (e.g., laterally, horizontally, outward, etc.), for example away from the housing 42 to reduce or mitigate the thermal effect of the fluid on adjacent or nearby components (e.g., housings 42, battery modules 40, etc.).

[0082] As shown in FIGS. 17-19, the vent 510 extends from an exterior of the housing 42 (e.g., from the first wall 46, a rear wall, a lateral sidewall, etc.), and has a circular cross- sectional shape or cylindrical configuration. The vent 510 may be positioned at a top portion of the housing 42 (e.g., a top portion of the first wall 46). However, in other embodiments the vent 510 is another suitable shape (e.g., cross-sectional shape) or configuration (e.g., square or rectangular cross-sectional shape, etc.; a rectangular prism, triangular prism, cube, hexagonal prism, cone, pyramid, square-based pyramid, triangular prism, etc.) In other embodiments, the vent 510 is otherwise positioned (e.g., is positioned at a rear wall, a bottom portion, a middle portion, etc.). As discussed above, in an exemplary embodiment the vent 510 is positioned at the housing 42 such that the vent 510 is configured to guide movement of a liquid from an interior of the housing 42 toward an exterior of the housing 42 (as shown in at least FIG. 19).

[0083] As shown in FIGS. 17-19, the base 502 is coupled with the housing 42 at the opening 44, and is positioned within the vent 510. For example, the base 502 may be coupled with one or more sidewalls that define the opening 44 (e.g., to cover the opening 44). In an exemplary embodiment, the base 502 has a circular cross-sectional shape, or a cylindrical configuration. Further, the base 502 may be positioned within the vent 510 (e.g., a diameter of the base 502 may be smaller than a diameter of the vent 510), as shown in at least FIG. 18. The base 502 may define an axis of rotation, which may be aligned with an axis of rotation of the vent 510. In some embodiments, the base 502 and the vent 510 are coaxially aligned. The base 502 may have one or more tapered portions, for example the base 502 may have opposing tapered ends along the axis of rotation of the base 502 (as shown in FIG. 18). In other embodiments, the base 502 is another suitable configuration or shape and/or is otherwise oriented (e.g., a conical shape, spherical shape, etc.). In other embodiments, the system 500 includes a plurality of bases 502, for example positioned within the vent 510 (e.g., linearly aligned along the rotational axis, circularly aligned within the vent 510, etc.). In some embodiments, the system 500 includes a plurality of bases 502, which could be arranged and/or oriented in any suitable configuration (e.g., parallel and arranged in a line, nested within one another, staggered or angled and arranged in a column, offset vertically and/or laterally, angled/inverted, etc.).

[0084] The base 502 may be coupled with the housing 42, such that the base 502 is oriented relative to components of the housing 42. For example, the axis of rotation of the base 502 may be perpendicular to the first wall 46. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation of the base 502 (e.g., and/or the vent 510) aligned with a central axis of the opening 44. In this regard, in some embodiments the axis of rotation of the base 502, the vent 510, and the central axis of the opening 44 are coaxially aligned. In other embodiments, the axis of rotation of the base 502 (e.g., and/or the vent 510) is otherwise oriented relative to the first wall 46 (e.g., angled relative to, angled at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, etc. degrees), for example to direct (e.g., control, guide, etc.) movement of a fluid from the housing 42 (e.g. from the vent 510). As discussed above, in an exemplary embodiment the base 502 is configured and positioned such that the base 502 is configured to interface with fluid as fluid moves from an interior of the housing 42 toward an exterior of the housing 42. For example, the base 502 may be positioned at the opening 44 (e.g., at a top portion of the housing 42), so as to interface with high temperature and/or velocity gas as it is expelled out of the opening 44 and through the vent 510 (as shown in at least FIG. 19). In other embodiments, the base 502 is otherwise positioned and/or oriented.

[0085] As shown in at least FIGS. 17-19, in an exemplary embodiment the system 500 includes one or more nozzles (e.g., a nozzle 508). The nozzle 508 may be positioned at an end of the base 502, and may be configured to deliver a fire suppressant agent (e.g., a wetting agent, dry agent, etc. to the base 502 (e.g., the surface 504). As shown in FIG. 18, the nozzle 508 is positioned at an end of the base 502, for example along the axis of rotation of the base 502. In some embodiments, the nozzle 508 is oriented such that the nozzle 508, the base 502, and the vent 510 are all coaxially aligned. In an exemplary embodiment, the nozzle 508 is configured to distribute fire suppressant agent to an interior portion of the base 502 (e.g., a portion at an interior surface of the base 502), for example to facilitate heat absorption as expelled fluid (e.g., gas, etc.) moves through the base 502 toward an exterior of the housing 42 (as shown in at least FIG. 19). In some embodiments, the nozzle 508 is configured to distribute fire suppressant agent to an interior portion of the vent 510 (e.g., interior walls, surfaces, or other structures, etc.), for example to further facilitate heat absorption of the expelled fluid. In some embodiments, the nozzle 508 is configured (e.g., positioned, oriented, etc.) to distribute fire suppressant agent to an exterior portion of the base 502 (e.g., a portion at an exterior surface of the base 502), and/or both at an interior and an exterior portion of the base 502. In other embodiments, the nozzle 508 is configured (e.g., positioned, oriented, etc.) to distribute fire suppressant agent to an area or space (e.g., an area or space at an interior portion of the vent 510 between the vent 510 and the base 508, etc.), for example to further facilitate heat absorption of the expelled fluid. It should be understood that the nozzle 508 may include additional nozzles 508 (e.g., two, three, 5, 10, 15, etc.), which may be otherwise positioned and/or configured (e.g., at an opposing end of the base 502, configured to coat a central or middle portion of an interior of the base 502, configured to periodically coat the base 502, etc.).

[0086] As an illustrative example, the components of the system 500 may be implemented to mitigate, limit, or prevent the effects of gasses released from battery components. According to an exemplary embodiment, the system 500 is coupled to or integrated with one or more components of a battery pack, for example a battery submodule compartment or the housing 42. As discussed above, the housing 42 may house a plurality of battery modules 40 (e.g., 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, etc.). When in use, the battery modules 40 may provide power or energy to one or more components to which they are connected (e.g., a vehicle, a building, etc.). However, the battery modules 40 also contain materials that can produce heat, flammable gasses, or other combustible materials, which can cause the battery modules 40 to ignite or overheat, resulting in a failure or thermal runaway event. During a failure or thermal runaway event, the battery modules 40 can release large volumes of resultant gasses, which are released at high temperatures, pressures, and/or velocities. In some circumstances, during the failure or thermal runaway event the resultant gasses move within the battery module compartment (e.g., the housing 42), for example to a vent or opening and toward an exterior of the housing 42, which can impact surrounding components (e.g., housings 42, battery modules 40, etc.) and/or lead to further failure or thermal runaway.

[0087] In an example embodiment, the housing 42 is coupled to or integrated with the system 500. For example, the opening 44 of the housing 42 may be covered by, or integrated with, the base 502 (as shown in FIGS. 11-13). The base 502 (e.g., the surface 504) may be coated or covered with a suppressant agent (e.g., a wetting agent, a chemical agent, etc.), for example via the nozzles 508 (as shown in FIG. 12). The base 502 may also include a plurality of outlets 506, which may be sized, shaped, and/or arranged in any suitable configuration throughout the base 502 (as shown in FIGS. 5-8). In an exemplary embodiment, as the resultant gasses move through the housing 42 toward an exterior of the housing 42 (e.g., toward a top, toward the opening 44, etc.), the gasses may interface with the base 502 and/or move through the outlets 506. The interface between the gasses and the base 502 (and/or movement through the outlets 506) may separate the gasses (e.g., into smaller bubbles, gas portions, etc.), for example to increase the overall surface area of the gaseous particles. Further, the suppressant agent (e.g., at the surface 504) may interact with the resultant gasses (e.g., separated resultant gasses), thereby cooling the gasses. In this regard, as a result of the increased surface area of the resultant gasses, the expelled gas may be cooler (e.g., an increased level of heat absorption) compared to if the gasses did not interface with components of the system 500 (e.g., the base 502, the outlets 506, etc.). Further, as discussed above, as a result of the increased surface area of the resultant gasses, the fire suppressant agent may be configured to dilute one or more components of the expellant gasses (e.g., flammable gases, compounds, liquids, etc.), for example to reduce the flammable characteristics of the expellant gasses compared to if the gasses did not interface with components of the system 500 (e.g., the base 502, the outlets 506, etc.).

[0088] Similarly, in an example embodiment the housing 42 is coupled to or integrated with the system 500. For example, the housing 42 (e.g., at the opening 44) may be coupled with the vent 510, which may include or be coupled to the base 502 (as shown in FIGS. 14-15). The vent 510 may extend from an external portion of the housing 42, and may have a tapered or triangular configuration (as shown in FIGS. 14-16), a cylindrical configuration (as shown in FIGS. 17-19), or any other suitable configuration. The base 502 may be included with or coupled to the vent 510, for example at an external opening of the vent 510 (as shown in FIGS. 14-15), at an interior portion of the vent 510 (as shown in FIGS. 17-19), or in any other suitable configuration. The base 502 (e.g., the surface 504) may be coated or covered with a suppressant agent (e.g., a wetting agent, a chemical agent, etc.), for example via the nozzles 508 (as shown in FIGS. 15 and 19). The base 502 may also include a plurality of outlets 506, which may be sized, shaped, and/or arranged in any suitable configuration throughout the base 502 (as shown in FIGS. 5-8, and 18). In an exemplary embodiment, as the resultant gasses move through the housing 42 toward an exterior of the housing 42 (e.g., toward a top, toward the opening 44, etc.), the gasses may move through a portion of the vent 510 (as shown in FIGS. 16 and 19) and may interface with the base 502 and/or move through the outlets 506. As discussed above, the interface between the gasses and the base 502 (and/or movement through the outlets 506) may separate the gasses (e.g., into smaller bubbles or gas portions), for example to increase the overall surface area of the gaseous particles. Further, the suppressant agent (e.g., at the surface 504) may interact with the resultant gasses, thereby cooling the gasses. In this regard, as a result of the increased surface area of the resultant gasses, the expelled gas may be cooler (e.g., an increased level of heat absorption) compared to if the gasses did not interface with components of the system 500 (e.g., the base 502).

[0089] In an example embodiment, the system 500 further includes the vent duct 512, which is coupled to an external portion of the housing 42 (e.g., the first wall 46). The vent duct 512 may be coupled with a plurality of housings 42, for example when the subpack 30 and/or battery pack 20 is in a stacked configuration. The vent duct 512 may be configured to receive gas expelled through the bases 502 (e.g., from the housing 42), and may guide the expelled gas in a direction (e.g., upward) away from the housings 42. In this regard, the vent duct 512 may be configured to receive and/or direct movement of resultant gasses (e.g., away from the housing 42, the battery modules 40, etc.), so as to reduce or mitigate the thermal effect of the resultant gasses on adjacent or nearby housings 42 and/or battery modules 40.

[0090] It should be understood that while the components of the system 500 are described herein as having certain configurations, it is contemplated that system 500 may include fewer, additional, and/or different working components. For example, the system 500 may include a plurality of vents 510, a plurality of bases 502, a plurality of nozzles, positioned at or along a single housing 42. In this regard, it is contemplated that a battery module compartment (e.g., housing 42) may have a plurality of vents 510 and/or bases 502 (e.g., at opposing walls, at a top and bottom portion of a wall, etc.), for example to facilitate mitigating or reducing the thermal affect of resultant gasses on adjacent or nearby housings. Further, it is contemplated that the system 500 described herein may be implemented in additional components of a battery pack (e.g., a battery pack, a subpack, a battery module, etc.), and/or other components relating to a battery system.

Configuration of the Exemplary Embodiments

[0091] As utilized herein with respect to numerical ranges, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms generally mean +/- 10% of the disclosed values. When the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms are applied to a structural feature (e.g., to describe its shape, size, orientation, direction, etc.), these terms are meant to cover minor variations in structure that may result from, for example, the manufacturing or assembly process and are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0092] It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

[0093] The term “coupled” and variations thereof, as used herein, means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled to each other using a separate intervening member and any additional intermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two members coupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If “coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of “coupled” provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without any separate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

[0094] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0095] The hardware and data processing components used to implement the various processes, operations, illustrative logics, logical blocks, modules and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose single- or multi-chip processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or, any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor also may be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, particular processes and methods may be performed by circuitry that is specific to a given function. The memory (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and/or computer code for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present disclosure. The memory may be or include volatile memory or non-volatile memory, and may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory is communicably connected to the processor via a processing circuit and includes computer code for executing (e.g., by the processing circuit or the processor) the one or more processes described herein.

[0096] The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and program products on any machine-readable media for accomplishing various operations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computer processor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or another purpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such machine- readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function or group of functions.

[0097] Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depicted and described, unless specified differently above. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unless specified differently above. Such variation may depend, for example, on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations of the described methods could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

[0098] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the system 10 as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Additionally, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. For example, the arrangement of the vent 510 of the exemplary embodiment shown in at least FIGS. 14-16 may be incorporated along with the housing 42 of the exemplary embodiment shown in at least FIGS. 17-19. Although only one example of an element from one embodiment that can be incorporated or utilized in another embodiment has been described above, it should be appreciated that other elements of the various embodiments may be incorporated or utilized with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS

1. A system for mitigating and limiting the effects of fluids released from battery components, the system comprising: a base having a plurality of outlets, the base coupled with a battery module housing, the battery module housing configured to house a battery module, wherein the plurality of outlets are arranged in a configuration across the base; and one or more nozzles configured to receive a suppressant agent and provide the suppressant agent to the base, wherein in response to a runaway event at the battery module, the base is configured to interface with an expellant fluid from the battery module to cool the expellant fluid.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the base and the plurality of outlets are configured to interface with the expellant fluid to increase a surface area of the expellant fluid, to increase heat absorption by the suppressant agent to cool the expellant fluid.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the configuration of the plurality of outlets includes one or more rows and one or more columns spaced uniformly along the base.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the base is a rectangular plate, and wherein the base is configured to couple a plurality of sidewalls defining an opening in the housing to cover the opening.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the base is coupled with the battery module via a vent.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the vent includes an inlet opening to receive the expellant fluid and an outlet opening to release the expellant fluid, and wherein the base is coupled with the vent at the outlet opening.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the vent has a triangular configuration and extends from an exterior of the housing, and the base is a rectangular plate.

8. The system if claim 6, wherein the one or more nozzles include two nozzles positioned at opposing lateral sides of the vent, wherein the two nozzles are configured to provide the suppressant agent to an interior surface of the base.

9. The system of claim 5, wherein the vent includes an inlet opening to receive the expellant fluid, and wherein the base is coupled with the housing and positioned within the vent.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the vent and the base are cylindrical shapes, and wherein an axis of rotation of the base is aligned with an axis of rotation of the vent.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the axis of the base and the axis of the vent are coaxial.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the one or more nozzles includes a nozzle positioned at an exterior portion of the base along the axis of the base, wherein the nozzle is configured to provide the suppressant agent to an interior cavity of the base.

13. A battery pack, comprising: a housing defining a volume; a battery module arranged within the housing, wherein the battery module comprises a plurality of battery cells configured to provide an electrical output; a base having a surface and a plurality of outlets, the base coupled with the battery module, wherein the plurality of outlets are arranged in a configuration across the surface; and one or more nozzles configured to receive a suppressant agent and provide the suppressant agent to the base, wherein in response to a runaway event at the battery module, the surface is configured to contact an expellant fluid from the battery module to deliver the expellant fluid through the plurality of outlets and to cool the expellant fluid.

14. The battery pack of claim 13, where in the surface is configured to contact the expellant fluid to increase a surface area of the expellant fluid to increase heat absorption by the suppressant agent to cool the expellant fluid.

15. The battery pack of claim 13, wherein the configuration of the plurality of outlets includes one or more rows and one or more columns spaced uniformly along the base.

16. The battery pack of claim 13, wherein the base is a rectangular plate, and wherein the base is configured to couple a plurality of sidewalls defining an opening in the housing to cover the opening.

17. A vehicle, comprising: a chassis; a plurality of tractive elements coupled with the chassis; a prime mover coupled with the plurality of tractive elements, the prime mover configured to drive the plurality of tractive elements to propel the vehicle; and a battery pack coupled with the prime mover, the battery pack comprising: a housing defining a volume; a battery module arranged within the housing, wherein the battery module comprises a plurality of battery cells configured to provide an electrical output; a base having a plurality of outlets, the base coupled with the battery module, wherein the plurality of outlets are arranged in a configuration across the base; and one or more nozzles configured to receive a suppressant agent and provide the suppressant agent to the base, wherein in response to a runaway event at the battery module, the base is configured to interface with an expellant fluid from the battery module to cool the expellant fluid.

18. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein the base and the plurality of outlets are configured to interface with the expellant fluid to increase a surface area of the expellant fluid, to increase heat absorption by the suppressant agent to cool the expellant fluid.

19. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein the configuration of the plurality of outlets includes one or more rows and one or more columns spaced uniformly along the base.

20. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein the base is a rectangular plate, and wherein the base is configured to couple a plurality of sidewalls defining an opening in the housing to cover the opening.