WO2022090570A1

WO2022090570A1 - Safety system

Info

Publication number: WO2022090570A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/080386
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rowdy VOOGD
Original assignee: Cleanhub B.V.
Priority date: 2020-11-02
Filing date: 2021-11-02
Publication date: 2022-05-05
Also published as: NL2026809B1

Abstract

Safety system for securing an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle comprising a securing key, a charging port panel configured to be mounted in the vehicle behind a charge flap thereof, comprising a key receiver configured to receive the securing key, comprising a switching mechanism adapted to be connected to a high voltage circuit of the vehicle and configured to break the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver, a discharge arrangement adapted to be connected to the high voltage circuit and configured to discharge a residual voltage of the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver; and at least one visual indicator visible from outside the vehicle and configured to indicate breakage and discharge of the high voltage circuit to show that the vehicle is safe to people outside the vehicle, such as emergency workers.

Description

Title: Safety system

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a safety system for securing an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle. The present invention further relates to a charging arrangement comprising a safety system and an electric or hybrid vehicle comprising a safety system.

Background of the invention

Electric vehicles and/or hybrid vehicles have become increasingly popular as being an environmentally- or economically-friendly alternative to vehicles that run on fossil fuels. Such electric vehicles generally comprise a high voltage circuit for storing and transporting electricity that is required for propulsion of the vehicle. Electric and/or hybrid vehicles are nonetheless prone to accidents and/or fires during use.

The presence of a high voltage circuit in these vehicles does form a risk, when compared to vehicles that are powered by fossil fuels. For example, the high voltage circuit in these vehicles may become damaged as a result of accidents and/or may heat up due to overload, short circuit or fire. These circumstances may result in critical overheating and/or electric discharge of components in the high voltage circuit, and in unexpected vehicle parts being subjected to a high voltage. Such conditions potentially cause relatively dangerous situations for passengers, bystanders and, in particular, emergency responders. Therefore, after an accident or apparent damage of the vehicle, the high voltage circuit should be deenergised to reduce safety risks.

Presently, it is known to provide electric or hybrid vehicles with a service plug or cutloop cable in a 12V circuit. In order to break an high voltage circuit of the vehicle, first responders remove the service plug or cut the cut-loop cable, respectively. Alternatively, fuses in the 12V circuit are removed manually. However, the service plug, cut-loop cable or fuses are provided in a technical space of the vehicle. Which of these three features is present, as well as their position in the vehicle, varies according to vehicle brand, model and year. For emergency responders, this is unclear, which requires them to fathom the vehicle’s electronics first before aid can be provided, and time that could be very valuable to victims and emergency workers is lost.

Additionally, even after breaking the high voltage circuit, it is not possible to determine whether the vehicle is actually secure to work with. It is not possible to determine whether the high voltage circuit has broken and whether parts of the vehicle are de-energised. It is therefore unclear whether opening and/or extinguishing the vehicle can be performed safely or may still result in electrocution and/or fire.

On top of that, overheating in the high voltage system, and especially in the battery, is usually difficult to deal with. Parts of the high voltage system are deeply integrated in the vehicle. For example, cells of the battery are encapsulated in the battery pack, in a battery casing that may be located in a base plate of a vehicle.

Even when a vehicle is secure, cooling may be required for long periods of time, up to 10 days, after the vehicle has caught fire or when the vehicle has been damaged. Presently, it is known to submerge vehicles in a large basin of water, to cover the vehicle with a heat- resistant blanket or to puncture the vehicle with a so-called fog nail for extinguishing and/or cooling.

However, these cooling and extinguishing techniques result in significant damage of the vehicle, in particular of parts of the vehicle that are not damaged or subjected to fire initially. Furthermore, these known techniques are mainly applicable when passengers have been released from the vehicle, but are not usable when passengers are still trapped within the vehicle.

Object of the invention

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a safety system that can be applied universally and that allows to secure a vehicle unambiguously, or at least to provide an alternative safety system.

The present invention

The present invention provides a safety system for electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles according to claim 1.

The safety system according to the present invention is configured to secure the vehicle by breaking up the high voltage circuit by receipt of a securing key by a key receiver that is located behind a charge flap of the vehicle, during use, such that the key receiver is accessible from outside the vehicle. In electric or hybrid vehicles, the charge flap is generally located on a front or side of the vehicle for easy access with a charging cable. The charge flap is for example located above a rear wheel of the vehicle, for example at a location corresponding to that of a fuel flap of a vehicle with a combustion engine.

The benefit of the safety system according to the present invention is that the charging port panel provides one central location from which emergency workers may secure the electric vehicle. The vehicle may be de-energised by breaking and discharging the high- voltage circuit, which may be initiated an monitored from one location. Each electric or hybrid vehicle with a charging port may universally be secured from the charging port panel according to the invention, potentially irrespective of vehicle brand, model or year. This has several advantages.

First of all, the charging port panel may be provided at a central location that is accessible and visible from outside of the vehicle. As such, the vehicle may be secured from outside of the vehicle, and successful execution thereof may be monitored from outside of the vehicle, such that it may unambiguously be verified that the vehicle is de-energised. In the known systems this was not possible. Thus, owing to the present invention, emergency workers are enabled to determine that the vehicle is safe with greater certainty.

Secondly, the vehicle may be de-energised from a larger distance. It is not necessary to open the tailgate, boot or bonnet, bending over the potentially dangerous vehicle to reach a specific plug, cut loop or fuse. The safety system may, for example, be operated from one side of the vehicle, a safer position for fires and electricity. The vehicle may be secured as far away from the vehicle as possible, such as at a distance of one arm's length, potentially increased by a length of the securing key.

Moreover, the vehicle may be secured earlier, and aid may be provided in an earlier stage after an accident, overload, short circuit or fire, such that the consequences thereof may be minimised, or that further damage may even be prevented. In addition to the earlier onset, the vehicle may be secured easier in less time. Instead of multiple actions required for cutting wires or removing fuses, securing may be performed by just inserting a key. Also, secondary damage to infrastructure, such as damage to a road surface, may be reduced due to the early response. Further, economic damage due to partial closure of a highway for emergency aid and recovery of a vehicle may amount more than 2 million euro per hour. It has been found out that earlier action due to the safety system may save over 70% of this economic damage.

Finally, the charging port panel according to the safety system offers an attractive location for additional safety features and may therefore provide all-in-one solution for emergency aid.

As such, the safety system increases safety for emergency workers and vehicle passengers. This may contribute to increased trust in electric and hybrid vehicles by the public, and by emergency workers, recovery workers in particular. Additionally, the invention thus provides a solution that may also offer advantages when securing a vehicle for other purposes, such as maintenance or repair.

The safety system comprises a securing key, for example a portable securing key.

The key may be configured to be received by the key receiver, for example by insertion therein. The key may be adapted for low friction with the key receiver, for fast and easy receipt. A low friction force may be advantageous when the device is operated from a distance outside the vehicle, such as with a stretched arm. The key may comprise a low friction material, such as a metal.

In an embodiment, the key has a shape that is symmetrical around a longitudinal axis thereof. As such, the key may be received by the key receiver in multiple orientations. The key may have a shape of a cylinder, for example of a pin.

In an embodiment, the key comprises a substantially smooth outer surface, such that the key may be received easily upon a single push movement towards the key receiver. At least 80%, for example at least 85%, such as 90% of a surface of the key that is in contact with the key receiver may be smooth.

The charging port panel may be formed as a conventional panel that surrounds a charging port, for example a relatively flat panel that may be arranged behind a charge flap.

In an embodiment, the charging port panel is provided with a charging port position for mounting the charging port panel adjacent to a charging port. The charging port position may comprise an opening or a notch in the charging port panel, providing room for an existing charging port. As such, the charging port panel may be retrofitted to existing vehicles.

In a further embodiment, the charging port position is a charging port attachment position for attachment of a charging port to the charging port panel, or vice versa, enhancing compatibility and durability.

In an even further embodiment, the charging port attachment position is provided with electrical connection means for providing an electrical connection with a charging port. As such, a charging port may be connected to other parts of the electric circuit of the vehicle via the safety system.

The key receiver and/or a charging port may extend from a front side of the panel or, alternatively be arranged recessed in the charging port panel. A flat front side that is relatively flat may be advantageous for arranging the charging port panel behind a charging flap of a vehicle.

The charging port panel comprises a key receiver, configured to receive the key. The key receiver may, for example comprise a slot, opening or shaped surface that cooperates with the key, such as a cylindrical slot or opening. The key receiver is accessible from a front side of the charging port panel, such that a key may be received therein.

The key receiver comprises a switching mechanism adapted to be connected to the high voltage circuit. The switching mechanism may comprise two terminals for connection to the high voltage circuit. The switching mechanism may be provided with sufficient insulation to comply with high voltage requirements.

In an embodiment, the switching mechanism is configured to be integrated in the high voltage circuit of the vehicle, such that a high voltage is switched directly. As such, the high voltage circuit may be used as a power supply to the switching mechanism, and no alternative power supplies, such as low-voltage supplies relays are necessary. Alternative power supplies may introduce potential failures of the system that may be avoided by using the high voltage system as a power source. Additionally, if the switching mechanism is adapted to withstand the high voltage, the risk of problems caused by high voltages on a low- voltage component, for example due to damage of the vehicle, may be reduced.

The switching mechanism may be aligned with a slot, opening or shaped surface key receiver, such that insertion of the key may actuate the switching mechanism.

Advantageously, the key may be provided in the key receiver with a single push movement, whereby the switch mechanism is actuated due to the movement of the key towards, around and/or into the key receiver.

In an embodiment, the securing key is movably attached to the charging port panel. The securing key may for example be detachable from the charging port panel to be received by the key receiver. This way, a securing key suited for the respective key receiver may be easily accessed behind a charge flap of the vehicle.

Alternatively, the securing key may be movably attached but not detachable from the charging port panel. The securing key may attached to be aligned with the key receiver, for example such that the securing key may be received by the key receiver by a single movement of the securing key, such as a single rotation or push/pull movement.

The securing key may comprise an actuation surface for actuation by a user. The actuation surface may be aligned perpendicular to a movement direction of the securing key around, towards and/or into the key receiver to be received by the key receiver. The actuation surface may be visually contrasting with the charging port panel, for example be red. The actuation surface may be shaped like a red emergency button. By having a visually contrasting and/or recognisable shape, the securing key may be found relatively quickly.

The switching mechanism is configured to break the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the key. By breaking the high voltage circuit, the high voltage circuit does no longer form a closed loop. As such, no current may be provided from the high voltage source, such as a battery, to high voltage users in the high voltage system, such as an inverter. Therewith, these parts are more secure as the risk of fire and electrocution are reduced.

In an embodiment, the switching mechanism is configured to break the high voltage circuit at multiple locations. The high voltage circuit may, for example, be broken at multiple locations between the terminals in series to each other. This way, redundancy is provided, such that even if the switching mechanism partially fails, the high voltage circuit is broken. Alternatively, the switching mechanism may comprise multiple terminals for connecting it to a high voltage circuit at multiple locations, such that the circuit may be broken at multiple locations parallel to each other.

The safety system further comprises a discharge arrangement for discharging a residual voltage. After breaking of the high voltage circuit, no current may flow there through. However residual voltages that may remain therein, for example in the inverter, such as in capacitors, do form a risk when working on the vehicle, for example by extinguishing, touching or cutting through parts of the vehicle. By discharging residual voltages, this risk may be reduced.

In an embodiment, the discharge arrangement comprises an earth connection, configured to allow residual energy to be discharged to the earth. The earth connection may be formed by the chassis of the vehicle.

In an embodiment, the discharge arrangement comprises a load, configured to use the residual energy due to residual voltages. The load may be provided between the high voltage circuit and the earth connection, when the discharge arrangement is connected to the high voltage circuit. As such, a discharge current to the earth may be limited by the load, such that overheating of the earth connection and/or sparks due to high discharge currents may be avoided.

The high voltage circuit of a vehicle may comprise an inverter and an electric motor for propulsion of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the discharge arrangement is configured to be connected to the high voltage circuit between an inverter and an electric motor. The discharge arrangement may for example comprise separate discharge arrangements for each phase of the electric motor, such as three in case of a three-phase electric motor. As such, each of the phases may be discharged separately.

The safety system further comprises at least one visual indicator, configured to be visible from outside the vehicle for indicating breakage and discharge of the high voltage circuit.

In an embodiment, the visual indicator comprises a light that is provided in the charging port panel. The light may be adapted to be connected to the high voltage circuit. The light may be powered by the high voltage circuit, such that the light turns off when the circuit is broken for indicating breakage of the high voltage circuit.

In a further embodiment, the light is connected to the discharge arrangement for indicating discharge. For example, the light may emit light upon discharge of the high voltage circuit. In a further embodiment, the light is connected to the discharge arrangement in between the high voltage circuit and the earth connection. As such, the light may turn on when the discharge arrangement is discharging residual voltage.

In an embodiment, the visual indicator is detachable from the charging port panel, wherein the visual indicator is attached to the charging port panel when the vehicle is secure, and detached from the charging port panel when the vehicle is not secure, or vice versa. Therewith, emergency responders may easily determine the vehicle is secure from the charging port panel.

In an embodiment, the detachable visual indicator is connected to the key. As such, presence of the visual indicator may indicate that the key is provided in the key receiver and therewith that breakage and discharge of the electric circuit is initiated.

In an embodiment, the at least one visual indicator comprises a flag that is connected to the securing key. A flag may be provided in a highly visible colour and shape and/or may comprise a retroreflective and/or fluorescent material for high visibility, providing an indication that is clear to people outside the vehicle.

In an embodiment, at least two visual indicators are provided, wherein a first visual indicator is configured to indicate breakage of the high voltage circuit, and wherein a second visual indicator is configured to indicate discharge of the high voltage circuit. Therewith, multiple levels of safety of the vehicle may be indicated.

In an embodiment, the key receiver and/or the securing key comprises a locking device, configured to lock the securing key to the key receiver upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver. When providing emergency aid and/or when transporting the vehicle, it may be unwanted that the securing key is removed from the key receiver, as it would be no longer indicated that the vehicle is safe. In some embodiments, removal of the key may even cause the switching mechanism to undo the breakage of the high voltage circuit. Therefore, the key and the key receiver may cooperate via a locking mechanism to avoid unwanted removal of the key.

In a further embodiment, the locking mechanism automatically locks the key upon insertion in the key receiver. The locking mechanism may, for example comprise a recess in the key receiver cooperating with a spring-loaded ball in the key, or vice versa. As such, insertion of the key may result in the ball being pushed in the recess, such that for removal of the key, the spring force has to be overcome.

In an alternative embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a bayonet lock, snap lock or magnetic lock. These locking mechanisms have been found to provide for relatively convenient locking of the key upon insertion into the key receiver. In an embodiment, the key receiver comprises a circuit breaker, wherein the circuit breaker is configured to break the high voltage circuit upon switching of the switching mechanism. By having a separate circuit breaker, high currents may be switched, while the key receiver does not need to conduct large currents.

In an embodiment, the switching mechanism is a mechanical switching mechanism having a switching member and a biasing member, which biases the switching member in a respective open or closed position member by movement of the switching member against the bias to a respective closed or open position due to a mechanical force exerted by the securing key on the switching member upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver.

The switching member may be aligned within the key receiver, wherein the switching member, for example a metal plate, is biased in an open position, towards a path of the key by the biasing member, for example a spring, such that the switching member may be pushed against the bias by the key upon insertion of the key towards a closed position.

In the closed position, the mechanical switching member may activate the circuit breaker to break the high voltage circuit. The circuit breaker may, for example, comprise a high voltage relay activated by a current through the mechanical switching member.

In an embodiment, the switching member and the circuit breaker are adapted to be connected to the same high voltage circuit. The charging port panel may comprise switching member terminals for connecting the switching member to the high voltage circuit and circuit breaker terminals for connecting the circuit breaker to the high voltage circuit, wherein the switching member terminals and the circuit breaker terminals have a same voltage rating.

In an embodiment, the safety system comprises a first circuit breaker, a second circuit breaker, a first switching member and a second switching member, wherein the first circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker are both connected to the first switching member and the second switching member, wherein both circuit breakers are configured to break the high voltage circuit upon switching of the first switching member and/or the second switching member. By having a first circuit breaker and a second circuit breaker, both a positive and negative line of the voltage circuit may be broken. Additionally, by having two switching mechanisms, redundancy is provided. The switching mechanisms may, for example have different positions with respect to the key receiver.

In an alternative embodiment, the first circuit breaker is connected to the first switching member and the second circuit breaker is connected to the second mechanical switching mechanism. This way, two separate connections are provided for extra redundancy.

In an embodiment, the safety system further comprises an extinguishing system, comprising a fluid connector that is arranged in the charging port panel and connectable to an external fluid source for supplying cooling and/or extinguishing fluids to the extinguishing system for cooling and/or extinguishing the high voltage circuit. The external fluid source may, for example, be a portable extinguisher or fire truck.

By having an extinguishing system, the vehicle may be secured by first disconnecting and discharging the high voltage circuit, and subsequent cooling and/or extinguishing of the high voltage circuit from a single charging port panel. As such, further overheating or fire, as well as secondary fires due to insufficient cooling, may at least partially be avoided.

The extinguishing system may comprise piping fluidly connecting the fluid connector to the nozzles, which allow to extinguish parts of the high voltage system, for example the battery, at multiple locations from a single connection at the charging port panel, using an extinguishing and/or cooling agent, for example using water or another agent. This way, extinguishing and/or cooling may be carried out much safer. Additionally, the damage that would be caused by submerging or covering the vehicle and/or by puncturing the vehicle with a fog nail may be avoided. Furthermore, extinguishing may be provided when passengers are still trapped within the vehicle.

In an embodiment, the extinguishing system comprises multiple nozzles adapted to be distributed over the high voltage circuit, wherein the nozzles are provided with a temperature sensitive closure. The temperature sensitive closure may fluidly close the nozzles of the extinguishing system up to a predefined temperature. Upon exceeding the predefined temperature, for example due to overheating or fire, the temperature sensitive closure may deform and/or melt to allow fluid to flow out of the respective nozzle, such that the extinguishing and/or cooling agent may be provided locally for local cooling and/or extinguishing. This way, further damage to intact parts of the high voltage system due to extinguishing is avoided and only overheated and/or burning parts may be cooled and/or extinguished, respectively.

In a further embodiment, the extinguishing system comprises a valve, for example a shutoff valve or a two-way valve, associated with the key receiver, wherein the valve, in a first position, fluidly separates the fluid connector from the multiple nozzles, and wherein the valve is configured to be moved into a second position by receipt of the securing key by the key receiver to fluidly connect the fluid connector to the multiple nozzles. By providing a valve, extinguishing and/or cooling of the high voltage system before breaking and/or discharging the high-voltage circuit may be avoided.

Alternatively, the nozzles may be fluidly connected to an internal extinguishing agent reservoir via the valve in the first position, wherein movement of the valve into the second position fluidly connects the nozzles to the fluid connector.

In an embodiment, the extinguishing system comprises a fluid sensor, connected to the switching mechanism, and configured to provide a fluid detection signal when detecting a fluid in the extinguishing system, wherein the switching mechanism is configured to break the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the fluid detection signal and/or wherein the discharge arrangement is configured to discharge the residual voltage upon receipt of the fluid detection signal.

In an embodiment, the extinguishing system comprises a drain element adapted to allow drainage of the extinguishing and/or cooling agent out of the vehicle at a specific location. The drain element may comprise a temperature sensitive closure, rupture disk or manual closure that may be removed locally, such that, upon exceeding of a predefined temperature, exceeding of a predefined pressure or opening of the manual closure, respectively, fluid may be drained via the drain element. By draining at a specific location, the fluid may be easily collected, which could be advantageous for the health of emergency responders and for the environment, as extinguishing and/or cooling agent may be become polluted due to chemicals in the high voltage system.

The advantages of the extinguishing system may also be applied to an electric or hybrid vehicle separately, without key receiver, discharge arrangement and/or visual indicator. Further, the fluid connector of the extinguishing system may also be useful when not mounted on the charging port panel, but elsewhere on the vehicle. However, the fluid connector is advantageously mounted on the charging port panel of a safety system according to the present invention, such that a practical all-in-one solution is provided for deenergising the vehicle first and subsequent extinguishing.

In an embodiment, the key receiver is provided with a cap to cover the key receiver for protection from the environment during normal use of the vehicle.

In an embodiment comprising the fluid connector, the fluid connector is provided with a cap to cover the fluid connector for protection from the environment during normal use of the vehicle.

In an embodiment, the key receiver is provided with a seal, arranged to seal the cap, wherein the seal is configured to break upon access to the key receiver, for example due to rupture upon removal of the cap.

The cap may block insertion of a key into the key receiver and/or connection of a fluid source to the fluid connector, such that the vehicle may not be secured, extinguished and/or cooled when the cap is covering the key receiver and/or the fluid connector, respectively. This way, the seal, when sealing the cap, may show that no key has been inserted in the key receiver and/or that no fluid has been provided through the extinguishing system and thus that the vehicle has not been secured since the moment of providing the seal.

Additionally, the safety system may be used for breaking and/or discharging the high voltage circuit for maintenance of the vehicle. In this situation, presence of the seal may show that no unqualified mechanics have worked on the vehicle. As a result, the seal is advantageous for vehicle manufacturers.

The seal may comprise a seal wire arranged to connect the cover with the charging port panel. The charging port panel and/or the cover may be provided with seal wire engagement means, for example openings or protrusions, such as hooks. The seal wire may for example be arranged as a loop, wherein the outer ends of the loop are connected to each other via a clamp seal. Alternatively, the seal wire may be connected to the cover or charging port panel on one outer end, and a clamp seal may be provided on another outer end. This way, the seal may be configured to break upon access to the key receiver. The seal may comprise a weather-resistant material, such as stainless steel, aluminium or plastic.

The present invention provides a charging arrangement, comprising a safety system according to any of the claims 1-12 and a charging port for charging the vehicle, wherein the charging port is attached to the charging port panel on a charging port attachment position thereof.

By having a pre-attached charging port, the present invention may be installed conveniently in a vehicle as a full-featured charging port panel.

The present invention provides an electric or hybrid vehicle, comprising a high voltage system and a safety system according to any of the claims 1-12, wherein a switching mechanism of the safety system is connected to a high voltage circuit of the vehicle and configured to break the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver, and wherein the discharge arrangement is connected to the high voltage circuit, and configured to discharge a residual voltage of the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver.

The safety system may be provided on an electric or hybrid car, bus or truck and such that a large portion of all vehicles worldwide may be secured by the safety system. The safety system may also be provided on other vehicles having a charging flap, or on vehicles having a charging port that is not located behind a charging flap.

In an embodiment, the circuit breaker of the safety system is adapted to divide the high voltage circuit of the vehicle in a first, voltage-preserving part, and a second, voltage- dischargeable part, wherein the switching member is provided in the first part of the high voltage circuit. As such, the switching member may remain connected to the high voltage circuit upon breaking the high voltage circuit and the high voltage circuit may be reactivated by the switching member upon removal of the key from the key receiver.

In an embodiment comprising an extinguishing system, at least one of the nozzles is provided at the first part of the high voltage circuit and at least one of the nozzles is provided at the second part of the high voltage circuit. By having nozzles provided at different locations on the high voltage circuit, extinguishing and cooling may be performed locally.

The present invention relates to use of a safety system according to any of the claims 1-12 for switching off the high voltage circuit of an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle.

The present invention also relates to use of safety system according to any of the claims 9-11 for extinguishing and/or cooling an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle.

Brief description of drawings

Further characteristics of the invention will be explained below, with reference to embodiments, which are displayed in the appended drawings, in which:

Figure 1 schematically depicts a front view of an embodiment of the safety system according to the present invention,

Figure 2 schematically depicts an electric or hybrid vehicle comprising the safety system of figure 1 ,

Figure 3 schematically depicts another embodiment of the safety system according to the present invention,

Figure 4 schematically depicts another embodiment of the safety system according to the present invention, and

Figure 5 schematically depicts the safety system of figure 1.

Throughout the figures, the same reference numerals are used to refer to corresponding components or to components that have a corresponding function.

Detailed description of embodiments

Figure 1 schematically depicts a front view of an embodiment of the safety system according to the present invention, which is referred to with reference numeral 1000. The safety system 1000 comprises a securing key 10. The key 10 is a metal pin adapted for low friction with a key receiver, having a substantially smooth outer surface of which at least 80%, for example at least 85%, such as 90% of the outer surface of the key 10 that, when inserted in the key receiver, is in contact with the key receiver, is smooth. The key 10 is a pin that has a cylindrical shape that is longitudinally symmetrical.

The safety system 1000 comprises a charging port panel 30, configured to be mounted behind a charge flap 902 of a vehicle 900, as shown in figure 2. The charge flap 902 is pivotable around hinge 903, such that the charging port panel 30 is accessible when the charge flap 902 is opened. The charging port panel 30 is relatively flat and is provided with a charging port attachment position 301 to which a charging port 40 is attached to form a charging arrangement. The charging port 40 is electrically connected to a battery 999 via electrical connection means.

The charging port panel 30 comprises a key receiver 1, configured to receive the securing key 10 from the front side of the charging port panel 30. The key receiver 1 comprises a symmetrical cylindrical opening that corresponds with the key 10. The key receiver 1 is accessible from the front side of the charging port panel 30, like the charging port 40. Internally, the key receiver comprises a switching mechanism 113, aligned with the cylindrical opening. The switching mechanism 113 is adapted to be connected to a high voltage circuit 901 of the vehicle 900 and configured to break a high voltage circuit 901 upon receipt of the securing key 10 by the key receiver 1. On a rear side of the charging port panel 30, the switching mechanism 113 comprises terminals 111 , 112 for connection to the high voltage circuit 901.

The key 10 comprises a locking device 101 configured to automatically lock the securing key to the key receiver 1 upon insertion therein. The locking device 101 comprises a spring-loaded ball that is biased axially outwardly with respect to the key 10. During insertion of the key 10, the ball is pushed inwardly into the key 10 against the spring bias. The key receiver 1 comprises an internal recess for cooperating with the ball, such that the ball may snap into the recess upon insertion of the key 10 in the key receiver 1.

The safety system 1000 further comprises a discharge arrangement 70, associated with the key receiver 1 and adapted to be connected to the high voltage circuit 901, and configured to discharge a residual voltage of the high voltage circuit 901 upon receipt of the securing key 10 by the key receiver 1.

The safety system comprises two visual indicators 20, 700 configured to indicate breakage and discharge of the high voltage circuit 901 , respectively. One of the visual indicators 20, 700 is a light that is provided in the charging port panel 30 and is adapted to be connected to the high voltage circuit 901 such that the light is powered therewith. As such, the light turns off when the high voltage circuit 901 is broken for indicating breakage of the high voltage circuit 901. The other visual indicator is detachable from the charging port panel 30 and comprises a flag 20 that is connected to the securing key 10. The flag comprises a highly visible colour, for example red, orange or yellow, and comprises a retroreflective and/or fluorescent material to further enhance visibility from outside the vehicle.

A fluid connector 2, the charging port 40, the key receiver 1 and a visual indicator is arranged recessed in the charging port panel 30 such that a front side thereof is relatively flat.

The key receiver 1 and the fluid connector 2 are provided with a cap 8 to cover the key receiver 1 and the fluid connector 2 for protection from the environment during normal use of the vehicle 900. The charging port panel 30 is provided with seal wire engagement means 302 which comprise a wire opening. The cap is attached to a seal wire 81 which protrudes through both sides of the wire opening of the respective seal wire engagement means 302 in the charging port panel. The seal wire is made of stainless steel, as this provides advantageous weather-resistant properties. On the free outer ends of the seal wires 81, aluminium clamp seals are arranged to seal the respective caps 8. In addition to or as an alternative to stainless steel or aluminium, the seal may comprise other materials, such as plastics. The seals are configured to break upon access to the key receiver 1 and/or the fluid connector 2, for example due to rupture upon removal of the respective cap 8.

Figure 3 schematically depicts another embodiment of the safety system according to the present invention. The electrical circuit of the safety system is shown schematically. The key receiver 1 comprises a first circuit breaker 510, a second circuit breaker 520, a mechanical switching mechanism 113 having first and second switching members 100 and a biasing member 110. The first and second switching members 100 are aligned within the key receiver 1 for contact with a key 10 upon insertion. The biasing member 110 biases the switching members in 100 towards a path of the key 10 in an open position, wherein a coil 500 is not energised. The switching members 100 are connected to the same high voltage circuit 901 as the circuit breakers 510, 520 via terminals 111, 112. The circuit breakers 510, 520 are operatively connected to the first and second switching members 100, and are configured to break the high voltage circuit 901 upon switching of the first switching member 100 and the second switching member 100.

Upon insertion of the securing key 10 in the key receiver 1, a mechanical force is exerted by the tip of the key 10 on the switching member 100A, against the bias of the biasing member 100B, forcing the switching member 100A to a closed position, wherein the mechanical switching members 100 activate the circuit breakers 510, 520 to break the high voltage circuit 901.

In the closed position, that coil 500 is energised. The circuit breakers 510, 520 are normally closed contacts that are sensitive to an electromagnetic force produced by the coil 500. When the coil 500 is energised, the circuit breakers 510, 520 are moved to an open position, such that the high voltage circuit 901 is broken at multiple locations and no longer forms a closed loop. As such, no current may be provided from the battery 999, to high voltage users in the high voltage system, such as an inverter 997 or electric motor 996 for propulsion of the vehicle 900.

The discharge arrangement 70 comprises an earth connection 701, formed by the chassis of the vehicle and configured to allow residual energy to be discharged to the earth. The earth connection 701 may be formed by the chassis of the vehicle. The light 700 is configured to be connected to the discharge arrangement 70 in between an inverter 997 and/or electric motor 996 and the earth connection 701. As such, the light may turn on when the discharge arrangement 70 is discharging residual voltage for indicating discharge. However, the light may also be configured to be connected to the high voltage circuit 901 on other locations, for example in between one of the circuit breakers 510, 520 and the inverter 997.

Figure 4 schematically depicts another embodiment of the safety system 1000 according to the present invention, further comprising an extinguishing system, comprising a fluid connector 2 that is arranged in the charging port panel 30 and connectable to an external fluid source 300 for supplying cooling and/or extinguishing agents to the extinguishing system for cooling and/or extinguishing the high voltage circuit 901.

The extinguishing system comprises piping 130 fluidly connecting the fluid connector 2 to multiple nozzles 200 adapted to be distributed over the high voltage circuit 901, wherein the nozzles 200 are provided with a temperature sensitive closure 210. Nozzles 200 are distributed over the high voltage circuit 901, such that cooling and/or extinguishing may be provided locally. For example, a nozzle 200 may be provided for each battery casing 220.

The temperature sensitive closures 210 fluidly close the nozzles up to a predefined temperature. Upon exceeding the predefined temperature, the temperature sensitive closures 210 may deform and/or melt to allow extinguishing agents to flow out of the respective nozzles.

The extinguishing system comprises drain elements 230 adapted to allow drainage of the extinguishing and/or cooling agents out of the vehicle at specific locations, for example around the battery 999. The drain elements comprise a temperature sensitive closure that upon exceeding a predefined temperature, open such that fluid may be drained. The drain element may also comprise a closure that is arranged to be removed manually, such as a cap or a closure that is arranged to be broken manually.

Figure 5 schematically depicts the safety system of figure 1. The extinguishing system comprises a magnetic shutoff valve 120A, associated with the key receiver 1 via additional mechanical switching members 105,106. An additional power source 350, for example a 12V battery, is connected to the additional mechanical switching members 105, 106 via a fuse 400. Upon insertion of the key 10 in the key receiver 1, a contact force between the key 10 and the additional switching members 105, 106 powers solenoid 120 by the additional power source 350 to move the valve 120A from a first position, wherein it fluidly separates the fluid connector 2 from the multiple nozzles 200 into a second position to fluidly connect the fluid connector 2 to the multiple nozzles 200. In an alternative embodiment, the nozzles may be fluidly connected to an internal extinguishing agent reservoir via the valve in the first position, wherein movement of the valve into the second position fluidly connects the nozzles to the fluid connector.

Claims

CLAIMS Safety system (1000) for securing an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle (900), comprising:

- a securing key (10);

- a charging port panel (30) configured to be mounted in the vehicle behind a charge flap (902) thereof, such that it is accessible when the charge flap is opened, comprising a key receiver (1) configured to receive the securing key (10), comprising a switching mechanism, adapted to be connected to a high voltage circuit (901) of the vehicle and configured to break the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver;

- a discharge arrangement (70), associated with the key receiver and adapted to be connected to the high voltage circuit, and configured to discharge a residual voltage of the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver; and

- at least one visual indicator (20, 700), visible from outside the vehicle, and configured to indicate breakage and discharge of the high voltage circuit to show that the vehicle is safe to people outside the vehicle, such as emergency workers. Safety system according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one visual indicator comprises a light that is provided in the charging port panel, and wherein the visual indicator is adapted to be connected to the high voltage circuit and configured to emit light upon discharge of the high voltage circuit. Safety system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one visual indicator comprises a flag that is connected to the securing key. Safety system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing key comprises a substantially smooth outer surface, for example wherein the key has an outer shape of a cylinder. Safety system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the key receiver and/or the securing key comprises a locking device, configured to lock the securing key to the key receiver upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver.

6. Safety system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the key receiver comprises a circuit breaker and a mechanical switching mechanism having a switching member and a biasing member, which biases the switching member in a respective open or closed position, wherein the circuit breaker is configured to break the high voltage circuit upon switching of the switching member by movement of the switching member against the bias to a respective closed or open position due to a mechanical force exerted by the securing key on the switching member upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver.

7. Safety system according to claim 6, wherein the switching member and the circuit breaker are adapted to be connected to the same high voltage circuit.

8. Safety system according to claim 6 or 7, comprising a first circuit breaker, a second circuit breaker, a first switching member and a second switching member, wherein the first circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker are both connected to the first switching member and the second switching member, wherein both circuit breakers are configured to break the high voltage circuit upon switching of the first switching member and/or the second switching member.

9. Safety system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising an extinguishing system, comprising a fluid connector that is arranged in the charging port panel and connectable to an external fluid source for supplying cooling and/or extinguishing fluids to the extinguishing system for cooling and/or extinguishing the high voltage circuit.

10. Safety system according to claim 9, wherein the extinguishing system comprises multiple nozzles adapted to be distributed over the high voltage circuit, wherein the nozzles are provided with a temperature sensitive closure.

11. Safety system according to claim 10, wherein the extinguishing system comprises a valve, for example a shutoff valve or a two-way valve, associated with the key receiver, wherein the valve, in a first position, fluidly separates the fluid connector from the multiple nozzles, and wherein the valve is configured to be moved into a second position by receipt of the securing key by the key receiver to fluidly connect the fluid connector to the multiple nozzles.

12. Safety system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the key receiver is provided with a cap to cover the key receiver for protection from the environment 19 during normal use of the vehicle, and a seal, arranged to seal the cap, wherein the seal is configured to break upon access to the key receiver, for example due to rupture upon removal of the cap.

13. Charging arrangement, comprising a safety system according to any of the preceding claims and a charging port for charging the vehicle, wherein the charging port is attached to the charging port panel on a charging port attachment position thereof.

14. Electric or hybrid vehicle, comprising a high voltage system and a safety system according to any of the claims 1-12, wherein a switching mechanism of the safety system is connected to a high voltage circuit of the vehicle and configured to break the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver, and wherein the discharge arrangement is connected to the high voltage circuit, and configured to discharge a residual voltage of the high voltage circuit upon receipt of the securing key by the key receiver.

15. Electric or hybrid vehicle according to claim 14, wherein a circuit breaker of the safety system is adapted to divide the high voltage circuit of the vehicle in a first, voltage-preserving part, and a second, voltage-dischargeable part, wherein the switching member is provided in the first part of the high voltage circuit.

16. Electric or hybrid vehicle according to claim 15, comprising the safety system according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein at least one of the nozzles is provided at the first part of the high voltage circuit and wherein at least one of the nozzles is provided at the second part of the high voltage circuit.

17. Use of a safety system according to any of the claims 1-12 for switching off the high voltage circuit of an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle.

18. Use of safety system according to any of the claims 9-11 for extinguishing and/or cooling an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle.