WO2025098628A1 - Batterie au lithium auto-extinguible - Google Patents

Batterie au lithium auto-extinguible Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2025098628A1
WO2025098628A1 PCT/EP2023/081481 EP2023081481W WO2025098628A1 WO 2025098628 A1 WO2025098628 A1 WO 2025098628A1 EP 2023081481 W EP2023081481 W EP 2023081481W WO 2025098628 A1 WO2025098628 A1 WO 2025098628A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
battery
extinguishing
self
housing
module
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/EP2023/081481
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Alexander Weis
Niklas Mracek
Sandro Priebe
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
SCIO Technology GmbH
Original Assignee
SCIO Technology GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by SCIO Technology GmbH filed Critical SCIO Technology GmbH
Priority to PCT/EP2023/081481 priority Critical patent/WO2025098628A1/fr
Publication of WO2025098628A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025098628A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/202—Casings or frames around the primary casing of a single cell or a single battery
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62C—FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62C3/00—Fire prevention, containment or extinguishing specially adapted for particular objects or places
    • A62C3/16—Fire prevention, containment or extinguishing specially adapted for particular objects or places in electrical installations, e.g. cableways
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62C—FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62C35/00—Permanently-installed equipment
    • A62C35/02—Permanently-installed equipment with containers for delivering the extinguishing substance
    • A62C35/10—Containers destroyed or opened by flames or heat
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/204—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/233—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by physical properties of casings or racks, e.g. dimensions
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/289—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by spacing elements or positioning means within frames, racks or packs
    • H01M50/291—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by spacing elements or positioning means within frames, racks or packs characterised by their shape
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/289—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by spacing elements or positioning means within frames, racks or packs
    • H01M50/293—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by spacing elements or positioning means within frames, racks or packs characterised by the material
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/60—Arrangements or processes for filling or topping-up with liquids; Arrangements or processes for draining liquids from casings
    • H01M50/609—Arrangements or processes for filling with liquid, e.g. electrolytes
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/60—Arrangements or processes for filling or topping-up with liquids; Arrangements or processes for draining liquids from casings
    • H01M50/673—Containers for storing liquids; Delivery conduits therefor
    • H01M50/682—Containers for storing liquids; Delivery conduits therefor accommodated in battery or cell casings
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M2200/00—Safety devices for primary or secondary batteries
    • H01M2200/10—Temperature sensitive devices
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M2220/00—Batteries for particular applications
    • H01M2220/20—Batteries in motive systems, e.g. vehicle, ship, plane
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/10—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings
    • H01M50/14—Primary casings; Jackets or wrappings for protecting against damage caused by external factors
    • H01M50/143—Fireproof; Explosion-proof
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/204—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
    • H01M50/207—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells characterised by their shape
    • H01M50/209—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells characterised by their shape adapted for prismatic or rectangular cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/204—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
    • H01M50/207—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells characterised by their shape
    • H01M50/213—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells characterised by their shape adapted for cells having curved cross-section, e.g. round or elliptic
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/256—Carrying devices, e.g. belts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/30—Arrangements for facilitating escape of gases
    • H01M50/342—Non-re-sealable arrangements
    • H01M50/3425—Non-re-sealable arrangements in the form of rupturable membranes or weakened parts, e.g. pierced with the aid of a sharp member
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/30—Arrangements for facilitating escape of gases
    • H01M50/383—Flame arresting or ignition-preventing means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/10—Energy storage using batteries

Definitions

  • the present invention refers to a self-extinguishing lithium battery, comprising a battery housing having an interior space in which a plurality of cylindrical battery cells is enclosed, a cavity being formed between the battery cells and an adjacent wall of the battery housing.
  • a bag, a filling material or a case with a fire extinguishing agent is arranged in the cavity in order to be able to extinguish an overheated battery cell in the event of a thermal runaway.
  • CN 106058337 A Similar devices are also known from CN 115282531 A, CN 216169484 U, CN 215195149 U and CN 209544461 U.
  • the batteries known from the prior art each have the disadvantage that, on the one hand, triggering the extinguishing process is technically complex and requires a sensor system and a control system and, on the other hand, the extinguishing process is not limited locally to the affected battery cells, but the entire module is affected by the extinguishing process. On the one hand, this leads to a high consumption of fire extinguishing agent, and on the other hand, the entire fire extinguishing unit has to be replaced after a fire. Extinguishing the "entire" module can in turn cause avoidable damage to unaffected battery cells or module components.
  • a self-extinguishing lithium battery comprising a battery housing having an interior space in which at least one battery module is arranged, a cavity being formed between the battery module and an adjacent wall of the battery housing, the battery module comprising a plurality of cylindrical, prismatical or pouch battery cells enclosed in a module housing, the battery cells being arranged parallel to each other and oriented with a contact and/or a venting side towards the cavity, wherein a flowable and/ or gaseous fire extinguishing agent is arranged in the cavity in order to be able to flow in the direction of an overheated battery cell in the event of a thermal runaway, the flowable fire-extinguishing agent being contained in one or more compartments separate from each other.
  • the battery housing can comprise a bottom wall, a top wall and four sidewalls.
  • One of the sidewalls can be provided with a handle for carrying the battery.
  • Another one of the sidewalls can be provided with a connecting plug for connecting the battery to a battery system or a power consumer.
  • the adjacent wall of the battery module can be one of the outer walls of the battery housing, in particular the top wall of the battery housing.
  • the cavity can therefore be arranged between the battery module and the top wall of the battery housing.
  • the cavity can be located between the battery module and the side of the housing that faces upward during operation of the battery to allow the fire extinguishing agent to flow downward by gravity toward the overheated battery cell.
  • the battery module housing can be tubular and have a bottom section, a top section and two side walls connecting them.
  • the battery module housing can have front and rear walls for enclosing an interior space of the module housing. If two or more battery modules are arranged in the battery housing, neighboring modules can each have common module housing walls on their facing sides.
  • the battery module housing can be designed in one piece. Alternatively, the battery module housing can be designed in several pieces. The multiple housing pieces can be connected by means of plug connectors.
  • the separate compartments each can have a cavity configured for accommodating an amount of fire-extinguishing agent.
  • the compartments can be separated from each other by separating walls.
  • the separating walls can be mounted on the side of the module housing facing the cavity.
  • the advantage of the present invention over the prior art is that by arranging the fire extinguishing agent and using a fusible material to separate the battery cells from the fire extinguishing agent, the fusible material melts and forms a passageway just at the location where a battery cell is overheated. This allows the fire extinguishing agent to automatically flow toward the affected battery cell and extinguish the fire as locally as possible. This means that there is no need for sensors to detect the fire and identify the location of the fire, nor is there any need for an activator to bring the fire extinguishing agent to the fire location.
  • Another advantage is that by using separate compartments for the fire extinguishing agent, not all of the fire extinguishing agent flows toward the battery cells, but only that of the compartment located above the overheated battery cell. This means that only the smallest possible quantity of fire extinguishing agent is used, and the use of the fire extinguishing agent is limited as locally as possible so that the fire extinguishing agent does not additionally affect surrounding battery cells that are not affected by the fire.
  • the at least one battery module can be separated from the fire-extinguishing agent by a separator formed from a fusible material.
  • the separator can be a sheet extending over the side of the battery cells facing the cavity.
  • the separator can have a plurality of recesses on its side facing away from the battery module.
  • the recesses can be arranged so that at least a section of a recess is located above each batteiy cell.
  • a recess can be provided above several battery cells. Alternatively, one recess can be provided per battery cell.
  • the recesses can be configured such that the thickness of the separator is reduced with regard to the rest of the separator sheet.
  • the recesses each can have a funnel-shaped cross section.
  • the separator can be configured as the top wall of the module housing.
  • the separator and/or the module housing can be formed from a material that melts when exposed to heat, for example a thermoplastic material.
  • the melting point of the material can be selected such that, plus a tolerance range, it lies above a maximum operating temperature to be assumed for the battery cells.
  • the separator and/or the module housing material can be selected such that it is resistant to heat up to 4OO°C.
  • the material of the separator/the module housing can be for example PPS (Polyphenylene sulfide).
  • the battery housing can be formed from metal.
  • the material of the batteiy housing for example can be aluminum.
  • the at least one batteiy module housing can be fastened in the battery housing by means of clamping, self-adhesive, adhesive, welding, screwing or riveting.
  • the fire-extinguishing compartments can be arranged such that at least a portion of a compartment is arranged above each batteiy cell of the plurality of battery cells. It may be possible to provide a separate compartment for each battery cell. Alternatively, a compartment can be assigned to several battery cells and arranged above them. The compartment may have a round, a square or a rectangular cross-section.
  • the bottom portion of the compartment can be formed of the separator. If the separator is formed of the top wall of the module housing, the compartments can be integrally formed with the at least one module housing. Alternatively, the compartments can be implemented as components separate from the at least one module housing.
  • the top of the separator can provide a lower half-shell of the compartments.
  • An upper half-shell of the compartments can be provided by a housing part separate to the separator. The upper half-shell can be placed on the lower halfshell, whereby the plurality of compartments can be formed between the lower and upper half-shells.
  • At least two battery modules can be arranged in the battery housing side by side.
  • the modules can be separated from each other by a separating wall.
  • the separating wall can be the outside of each of the adjacent modules, so that the modules share a common wall at this point.
  • the separating wall may extend through the cavity and bear against the wall opposite the battery modules so that the cavity is separated by the separating wall.
  • the flowable fire-extinguishing agent is an extinguishing foam, an extinguishing gel, an extinguishing powder, an extinguishing granulate, extinguishing aerosol, extinguishing gas or water.
  • the compartments can be fastened in the cavity between the at least one module housing and the upper wall of the battery housing.
  • the fastening can be done by means of clamping, self-adhesive, adhesive, welding, screwing or riveting.
  • the battery cells in each module can be arranged in a zigzag configuration and connected to each other by means of cell connector welded to the contacts.
  • the cell connector can have a plurality of contact sections extending between the cells.
  • the contact sections can be dimensioned to hold the battery cells at a predetermined distance from each other so that a clearance is formed between adjacent cells.
  • the positive contacts of the cells may all face the top of the battery modules and the negative contacts of the cells may all face the bottom of the batteiy modules, or vice versa.
  • the cell-venting side of all cells may be directed to the extinguishing agent.
  • the positive contacts may be connected to each other via a first cell connector as described above, and the negative contacts may be connected to each other via a second cell connector as described above. This creates a rigid configuration of the cells with respect to each other, so that no additional spacer or cell container needs to be provided to hold or space the cells with respect to each other.
  • the cells 7 are also not in contact with an upper inner wall and a lower inner wall of the module housing 8. At least the spacing of the cells 7 from the inner walls of the module housing 8, laterally as well as at the top and bottom, is achieved by a fire protection foam 26 inserted into the module housing 8. The spacing of the cells 7 from each other is primarily achieved by cell connectors 27 (see, for example, Fig. 9), but the fire protection foam 26 additionally supports this spacing.
  • the foam 26 is first applied to the module housing 8 with a low viscosity. After a short time, the liquid foam 26 begins to expand and completely fills the spaces between, above and/or under the cells 7. It is possible to foam the entire module or only partially.
  • FIG. 9 shows a top view of two battery modules 4 arranged in parallel in a battery housing 2, whereby the view of the interconnected battery cells 7 is unobstructed respectively the cover is not shown.
  • each battery module 4 comprises a certain number of micromodules 28 arranged therein, each micromodule consists of a certain number of battery cells 7 interconnected by a cell connector 27, the cells 7 being arranged in a zigzag manner.
  • the fire protection foam 26 is introduced into all the spaces between the battery housing 2 and is located on the one hand between the battery cells 7, between adjacent micro-modules 28 spaced apart by the foam 26, between the cells 7 and the side walls (and the base/cover of the module housings 4 not shown and the undersides/tops of the cells 7), between the module housings 8 and between the module housings 8 and the respective adjacent inner walls of the battery housing 2.
  • Figure 10 shows a similar view to Figure 9, with the difference that the upper side of the cells 7 or the micromodules 28 is also covered by the fire protection foam 26.
  • the foam 26 is arranged between the tops of the cells and the separator 14 from a vertical perspective.
  • Figure 11 again shows a similar view to Figures 9 and 10, in this case as a sectional view in which the cells 7 are cut through.
  • the illustration makes it clear that the fire protection foam 26 is arranged between all the free spaces formed within the modules 4 and between the adjacent modules 4 respectively between the modules 4 and the inner walls of the battery housing 2, thereby ensuring that the aforementioned elements are spaced apart from one another and mechanically supporting them against one another.
  • a fire protection foam is disposed in the free spaces of the module housings.
  • the battery cells can be arranged such in the module housings that the battery cells are not in contact with each other and/ or with an inner wall of the module housing.
  • the cells can be spaced apart from each other so that a free space is formed between all neighboring cells.
  • the cells further can be arranged such that the cells are not in contact with inner walls of the respective module housing.
  • the cells can further be also not in contact with an upper inner wall and a lower inner wall of the module housing. At least the spacing of the cells from the inner walls of the module housing, laterally as well as at the top and bottom, can be achieved by the fire protection foam inserted into the module housing.
  • the spacing of the cells from each other is primarily achieved by cell connectors, but the fire protection foam 26 additionally can support this spacing.
  • the fire protection foam can be arranged in the resulting free spaces, namely between the cells and/ or between the cells and the inner walls of the module housing.
  • the modules are arranged such in the battery housing that the modules are not in contact with each other. This can be achieved by the fire protection foam being arranged between the modules, distancing them from each other. It is further conceivable that the modules are arranged such in the battery housing that the modules are not in contact with an inner wall of the battery housing.
  • the fire protection foam being arranged between the modules and the inner walls of the battery housing, distancing the modules from the inner batteiy housing walls on all sides.
  • the fire protection foam can first be applied to the module housing with a low viscosity.
  • the fire protection foam can be configured such that after a short time, for example less than 10 minutes, the liquid foam begins to expand and completely fills the spaces between the cells and/or spaces between cells and adjacent housing walls and/or spaces between adjacent modules and/or spaces between modules and the battery housing. It is possible to foam the entire module or only partially.
  • the invention further concerns a forklift battery, for example consisting of one or more self-extinguishing batteries s described above.
  • the forklift batteiy in particular can comprise an adapter that can be connected to a forklift by means of a connector.
  • the adapter can comprise a housing for containing a plurality of batteries.
  • the housing can accommodate a Power Distribution Unit (PDU) to sum up the power and energy of each battery.
  • the PDU can comprise a connecting section comprising a plurality of plug connectors, each plug connector can be configured to be connectable to a complementary plug connector of a battery.
  • the connecting section can be a surface opposite to an access of the adapter hosing via which the batteries can be inserted or taken out of the adapter housing.
  • the PDU can connect the plugged-in batteries and can further comprise fuses and means for voltage and/or current measurement.
  • the adapter housing can further comprise a DC/DC voltage converter to convert the battery voltage to voltages that are different from the battery voltage, such as 24 V, 72 V, 96 V, 120 V, 400 V etc.
  • the adapter housing can further comprise a controller and/or counterweights.
  • the batteries can have an elongated body on one end of which the plug connector can be arranged. For simplified handling, a handle can be arranged on the opposite side.
  • the housing can be crash-safe.
  • the batteries each can have a voltage of 48 V for safe handling.
  • the batteries further can each be a fully equipped Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) comprising a Battery Management System (BMS), a plurality of battery cells, a housing and a connector.
  • BESS Battery Energy Storage System
  • BMS Battery Management System
  • the plug connector for connecting the batteries to the PDU can be configured such that the functions power and signal transmission are combined in one connector.
  • the functions can be implemented in two separate connectors per battery.
  • the connector can be inductive.
  • Lithium-ion batteries have become increasingly popular in the forklift industry due to their high energy density, longer cycle life, and fast charging capabilities. They offer improved performance and reduced maintenance compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.
  • Advanced forklift batteries support fast charging, allowing for quicker turnaround times and increased productivity.
  • Some lithium-ion batteries can be charged to 80% or more of their capacity in less than an hour. This technology enables forklift operators to charge batteries during short breaks, minimizing downtime and optimizing productivity. Opportunity charging is especially valuable in multi-shift operations.
  • BMS technology has improved battery monitoring and management, ensuring optimal performance, preventing overcharging or over-discharging, and extending the overall lifespan of the battery.
  • Battery manufacturers are continually researching and incorporating advanced materials into battery construction to enhance energy density, reduce weight, and increase efficiency.
  • Modern forklift batteries are designed with safety in mind, incorporating features like thermal management systems, flame-retardant materials, and protections against short-circuiting and overcharging.
  • Some forklift batteries now come with built-in data analytics capabilities, allowing operators to monitor battery health, usage patterns, and efficiency, which can lead to better fleet management decisions.
  • the forklift industry is also focusing on sustainability. Battery manufacturers are working on recyclable materials and sustainable production processes to reduce the environmental impact of battery manufacturing and disposal.
  • Smaller batteries maybe easier to monitor and replace individually. Large batteries are typically more expensive than smaller ones. This initial investment can be a significant consideration for businesses with budget constraints. Large batteries generate more heat during operation, potentially leading to thermal management challenges. Adequate cooling systems may be required to prevent overheating, which can affect battery life and safety. Smaller batteries offer greater flexibility in terms of swapping and recharging. If a forklift requires extended runtime, additional smaller batteries can be added as needed, whereas a large battery may not provide the same level of flexibility. A large battery that is completely discharged can be more challenging to recover and may result in permanent damage. Smaller batteries can often be disconnected or replaced more easily if they become discharged. Large batteries can be more difficult to access and maintain due to their size and weight. This can lead to increased maintenance costs and effort.
  • disposing of a large battery at the end of its life can be more environmentally challenging than disposing of smaller batteries. Recycling and disposal facilities may have limitations on handling large, heavy battery units.
  • the interchangeable batteries can be (re-) used in other applications e.g. AGVs, stationary storage systems, to extend the lifespan of the battery, which dramatically reduces the TCOs (Total cost of ownership).
  • Limited Backup If a large battery fails unexpectedly, there may be limited backup options, which can lead to extended downtime and reduced productivity.
  • Smaller batteries are more modular, making it easier to replace individual units as they reach the end of their lifespan. This extends the overall lifespan of the forklift power system and reduces the need for complete battery replacements. Smaller batteries are generally easier to disassemble and recycle. Their components, such as cells and casing materials, can be efficiently separated and processed for reuse in new batteries or other applications. Utilizing smaller batteries reduces the demand for large quantities of raw materials, helping to minimize resource depletion and lower the environmental impact of battery production. The circular economy aims to minimize waste generation. Smaller batteries can be more easily refurbished, reused, or repurposed, reducing the amount of battery waste sent to landfills.
  • forklift batteries that can be easily swapped and used across different forklift manufacturers include the following advantages.
  • Interchangeable batteries provide greater flexibility in forklift operations. Forklifts from different manufacturers can use the same battery, allowing companies to optimize their fleet and adapt to changing needs more easily. When a forklift's battery is depleted, it can be swapped out quickly for a fully charged one, reducing downtime. This is particularly valuable in multi-shift operations where continuous uptime is essential. Investing in a standardized battery system can lead to cost savings. Companies can purchase and maintain a single type of battery, reducing the need for a variety of battery types and associated charging equipment. Standardized batteries simplify maintenance and repairs. Technicians only need to become familiar with one type of battery, which can streamline maintenance procedures and reduce training requirements.
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a housing of a self-extinguishing lithium battery and housings of two battery modules accommodated in the battery housing;
  • Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a self-extinguishing battery according to the invention
  • Figure 3 shows a front view of a self-extinguishing battery in a normal state
  • Figure 4 shows a front view of a self-extinguishing battery in the event of a thermal runaway
  • Figure 5 shows a front view of a self-extinguishing battery in the event of a thermal runaway, where an area of the module housing was destroyed by the heat;
  • Figure 6 shows a front view of a self-extinguishing battery in the event of a thermal runaway, where a fire extinguishing agent flows in the directions of the burning battery cell;
  • Figure ya-f show a top view of different arrangement possibilities of the fire extinguishing agent above the battery modules
  • Figure 8 shows a side sectional view of an embodiment of a module housing
  • Figure 9 shows a top sectional view of an embodiment of a battery housing
  • Figure 10 shows a top sectional view of the embodiment of the battery housing of
  • Figure 11 shows a top sectional view of the embodiment of the battery housing according to Fig. 9 or Fig. 10;
  • Figure 12 shows a side view of a battery adapter for a forklift
  • FIG 13 shows a perspective view of the battery adapter for a forklift.
  • the self-extinguishing battery 1 shown in Figure 1 comprises an elongated battery housing 2 with a rectangular cross-section.
  • Two battery modules 4 are lengthwise accommodated and arranged in parallel in an interior space 3 of the battery housing 2.
  • the battery modules 4 each comprise a module housing 8 with a square cross-section and share a common housing wall between them.
  • Cavities 5 for accommodating a fireextinguishing agent (not shown) are formed between a top wall of each module housing 8 and an adjacent wall 6 of the battery housing 2.
  • the top wall of the module housings 8 each constitute a separator 14 between the battery cells (not shown) accommodated in the module housings 8 and the fire-extinguishing agent.
  • a separating wall 16 between the two battery modules 4 horizontally separates the both cavities 5.
  • the separating wall 16 is an extension of the common hosing wall between the battery modules 4.
  • FIG. 2 shows a perspective front view of the self-extinguishing battery 1, where the inside of the battery 1 is shown.
  • the battery 1 comprises an outer battery housing 2 made of aluminum.
  • the housings 8 of two battery modules 4 are fitted into the battery housing 2, such that the module housings 8 are prevented from moving inside of the battery housing 2.
  • the bottom wall of the module housing 8 is abutting the bottom wall of the battery housing 2
  • the side walls of the module housing 8 each are abutting an adjacent side wall of the battery housing 2.
  • Three webs are projecting upwards from the module housing, including the separating wall 16, supporting the modules 4 housing against the upper wall 6 of the battery housing 2, the upper wall 6 being adjacent to the separator 14.
  • a plurality of battery cells 7 is enclosed in each of the battery modules 4.
  • the cylindrically shaped cells 7 are arranged in parallel and having their contact sides 9 aligned upwards respectively downwards. In the shown configuration, all positive poles 9 of the cells7 are aligned upwards and all negative poles are aligned downwards. The battery cells 7 therefore have their positive contact poles 9 aligned in the direction of the separator 14 respectively the cavity 5.
  • the battery housing 2 has two elongated recesses extending along the sides of the housing which serve as guides for inserting the battery into a receptacle of a power consumer.
  • FIGs 3 to 6 show different steps of an extinguishing process of a battery cell 7 having a thermal runaway in a self-extinguishing battery 1 according to the invention.
  • a self-extinguishing battery 1 is shown in a normal state where all the cells are within a normal operating temperature window.
  • a fire extinguishing agent 11 is contained in the compartments 13 formed between the separator 14 and the upper wall 6 of the battery housing in the cavities 5.
  • a thermal runaway occurs leading to an overheated battery cell 12 exposing the separator area above the respective cell 12 with heat.
  • Figure 5 shows that the heat of the cell 12 has molten respectively destroyed the separator area 17 above the overheated cell 12 so that a passage between the cell 12 and the fire extinguishing agent 11 has been created by melting the PPS material of the separator 14.
  • Figur6 illustrates that the flowable fire extinguishing agent 11 in the compartment 13 above the affected battery cell 12 gravitationally driven, flows successively downward through the passage in the separator 14 toward the overheated cell 12. The effect of this is that the cell 12 can be cooled as locally as possible without the entire battery module 4 or even the entire battery 1 being affected by the cell failure.
  • the battery moule 4 not affected by the thermal runaway as well as the compartment with the fire-extinguishing agent 11 enclosed therein above this battery module 4 remain completely unaffected by the incident and the countermeasure taken.
  • FIGS 7 a)-f) show different apportionment options to subdivide the several compartments 13 by the example of a battery 1 with two battery modules 4. It is clear that the apportionment options also are applicable to battery with different amounts of battery modules accommodated therein.
  • the battery 1 shown therein comprises two modules 4 between which and the adjacent upper battery housing wall 6 a cavity 5 is formed.
  • the cavity 5 is subdivided by a separating wall as described in detail with regard to Figure 2.
  • two compartments 13 filled with fire-extinguishing agent 11 are provided in the cavity 5, one compartment 13 above each module.
  • the compartments 13 have a rectangular shape.
  • FIG 7 b four compartments 13 filled with fire-extinguishing agent 11 are provided in the cavity 5, two compartments 13 above each module 4.
  • the compartments 13 have a rectangular shape.
  • the subdivision of the compartments 13 with respect to each other is carried out by means of suitable technical means, for example by shaping the separator 14 accordingly and/ or by providing a lower and an upper shell for receiving the fire extinguishing agent 11, wherein the lower shell may be provided by the separator 14.
  • further separating walls such as the separating wall 16 shown may be provided for subdividing the compartments 13. This also applies to the configurations shown in Figures 7 c)-d).
  • twelve compartments 13 filled with fireextinguishing agent 11 are provided in the cavity 5, six compartments 13 above each module 4.
  • the compartments 13 have a square shape.
  • sixty compartments 13 filled with fire-extinguishing agent 11 are provided in the cavity 5, thirty compartments 13 above each module 4.
  • the compartments 13 have a rectangular shape.
  • the strips are arranged with their long side transverse to the main direction of extension of the module 4.
  • eighteen compartments 13 filled with fireextinguishing agent 11 are provided in the cavity 5, nine compartments 13 above each module 4.
  • the compartments 13 have a rectangular shape.
  • the strips are arranged with their long side parallel to the main direction of extension of the module 4.
  • fourteen compartments 13 filled with fire-extinguishing agent 11 are provided in the cavity 5, seven compartments 13 above each module 4.
  • the compartments 13 have a circular shape.
  • FIG. 8 shows a side view of a battery module 4 comprising a module housing 8 in which a plurality of battery cells 7 is enclosed, the cells 7 being arranged in such a way that their outer circumferences are not in contact with each other, but the cells 7 are spaced apart so that a free space is formed between all neighboring cells 7. Furthermore, all cells 7 are spaced from the inner walls of the module housing 8. The cells 7are also not in contact with an upper inner wall and a lower inner wall of the module housing 8.
  • the spacing of the cells 7 from each other is primarily achieved by cell connectors 27 (see, for example, Fig. 9), but the fire protection foam 26 additionally supports this spacing.
  • the foam 26 is first applied to the module housing 8 with a low viscosity. After a short time, the liquid foam 26 begins to expand and completely fills the spaces between the cells 7. It is possible to foam the entire module or only partially.
  • the foam 26 fulfills several tasks and serves for thermal insulation, for electrical insulation, for mechanical support between the cells 7/micro modules 4, for mechanical support between the cells 7/micro- modules 7 and the module housing 8/module cover, to prevent impacts and vibrations on the cells 7 as well as a mechanical structure for the entire module level.
  • FIG. 9 shows a top view of two battery modules 4 arranged in parallel in a battery housing 2, whereby the view of the interconnected battery cells 7 is unobstructed respectively the cover is not shown.
  • each battery module 4 comprises seven micromodules 28 arranged therein, each micromodule consists of ten battery cells 7 interconnected by a cell connector 27, the cells 7 being arranged in a zigzag manner.
  • the fire protection foam 26 is introduced into all the spaces between the battery housing 2 and is located on the one hand between the battery cells 7, between adjacent micro-modules 28 spaced apart by the foam 26, between the cells 7 and the side walls (and the base/cover of the module housings 4 not shown and the undersides/tops of the cells 7), between the module housings 8 and between the module housings 8 and the respective adjacent inner walls of the battery housing 2.
  • Figure 10 shows a similar view to Figure 9, with the difference that the upper side of the cells 7 or the micromodules 28 is also covered by the fire protection foam 26.
  • the foam 26 is arranged between the tops of the cells and the separator 14 from a vertical perspective.
  • Figure 11 again shows a similar view to Figures 9 and 10, in this case as a sectional view in which the cells 7 are cut through.
  • the illustration makes it clear that the fire protection foam 26 is arranged between all the free spaces formed within the modules 4 and between the adjacent modules 4 respectively between the modules 4 and the inner walls of the battery housing 2, thereby ensuring that the aforementioned elements are spaced apart from one another and mechanically supporting them against one another.
  • FIGS 11 and 12 show from different perspectives of a battery adapter too for a forklift having a crash-safe adapter housing 25 which is accessible from a top side for inserting a plurality of batteries 1, such as a self-extinguishing Li -battery 1 as described above.
  • the housing Opposite to the access side, the housing has a receptacle area for inserting the multiple number of batteries 1, the receptacle area being provided by a Power Distribution Unit (PDU) 19 having a plurality of slots for insertion of the batteries 1, which have corresponding complementary connectors for creating respective plug-in connections 23.
  • the PDU 19 serves to sum up the power and energy of each battery 1.
  • the PDU 19 connects the plugged-in batteries 1 and further comprises fuses and means for voltage and/or current measurement.
  • the adapter housing further accommodates a DC/DC voltage converter to convert the battery voltage to voltages that are different from the battery voltage, such as 24 V, 72 V, 96 V, 120 V, 400 V etc.
  • the adapter housing 25 further comprises a controller 21 and/or counterweights 22.
  • the batteries 1 have an elongated body on one end of which the plug connector 23 is arranged. For simplified handling, a handle 18 is arranged on the opposite side.
  • the batteries 1 each have a voltage of 48 V for safe handling and each are fully equipped Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) comprising a Battery Management System (BMS), a plurality of battery cells, a housing and a connector.
  • BESS Battery Energy Storage Systems

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Battery Mounting, Suspending (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne une batterie au lithium auto-extinguible, comprenant un boîtier de batterie ayant un espace intérieur dans lequel est agencé au moins un module de batterie, une cavité étant formée entre le module de batterie et une paroi adjacente du boîtier de batterie, le module de batterie comprenant une pluralité d'éléments de batterie cylindriques enfermés dans un boîtier de module, les éléments de batterie étant agencés parallèlement les uns aux autres et orientés avec un côté de contact vers la cavité, un agent d'extinction d'incendie fluide étant agencé dans la cavité afin de pouvoir s'écouler dans la direction d'un élément de batterie surchauffé en cas d'emballement thermique, l'agent d'extinction d'incendie fluide étant contenu dans au moins deux compartiments séparés l'un de l'autre.
PCT/EP2023/081481 2023-11-10 2023-11-10 Batterie au lithium auto-extinguible Pending WO2025098628A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2023/081481 WO2025098628A1 (fr) 2023-11-10 2023-11-10 Batterie au lithium auto-extinguible

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2023/081481 WO2025098628A1 (fr) 2023-11-10 2023-11-10 Batterie au lithium auto-extinguible

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2025098628A1 true WO2025098628A1 (fr) 2025-05-15

Family

ID=88833955

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/EP2023/081481 Pending WO2025098628A1 (fr) 2023-11-10 2023-11-10 Batterie au lithium auto-extinguible

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2025098628A1 (fr)

Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20140170447A1 (en) * 2011-05-05 2014-06-19 Samsung Sdi Co., Ltd. Battery housing for lithium-ion cells
CN106058337A (zh) 2016-07-26 2016-10-26 江苏索尔新能源科技股份有限公司 自动灭火电池
CN108075084A (zh) * 2018-01-17 2018-05-25 华霆（合肥）动力技术有限公司 电池模组、灭火装置及支撑结构
CN109435097A (zh) * 2018-09-28 2019-03-08 中材科技（苏州）有限公司 一种锂电池容器的制法及其容器成品
CN209544461U (zh) 2019-04-01 2019-10-25 微宏动力系统（湖州）有限公司 一种电池模组
DE102019127909A1 (de) * 2019-10-16 2021-04-22 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Batterie
CN113750400A (zh) * 2020-05-29 2021-12-07 山东海科创新研究院有限公司 一种柔性阻燃填充物及二次电池
CN215195149U (zh) 2021-06-04 2021-12-17 上汽大众动力电池有限公司 动力电池模组的灭火设备
CN216169484U (zh) 2021-10-08 2022-04-05 九江中船化学科技有限公司 一种车用锂电池灭火装置
US20220209343A1 (en) * 2018-02-16 2022-06-30 H.B. Fuller Company Electric cell potting compound and method of making
CN115282531A (zh) 2022-08-10 2022-11-04 河南省海天消防科学研究院有限责任公司 一种用于新能源汽车锂电池的灭火装置

Patent Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20140170447A1 (en) * 2011-05-05 2014-06-19 Samsung Sdi Co., Ltd. Battery housing for lithium-ion cells
CN106058337A (zh) 2016-07-26 2016-10-26 江苏索尔新能源科技股份有限公司 自动灭火电池
CN108075084A (zh) * 2018-01-17 2018-05-25 华霆（合肥）动力技术有限公司 电池模组、灭火装置及支撑结构
US20220209343A1 (en) * 2018-02-16 2022-06-30 H.B. Fuller Company Electric cell potting compound and method of making
CN109435097A (zh) * 2018-09-28 2019-03-08 中材科技（苏州）有限公司 一种锂电池容器的制法及其容器成品
CN209544461U (zh) 2019-04-01 2019-10-25 微宏动力系统（湖州）有限公司 一种电池模组
DE102019127909A1 (de) * 2019-10-16 2021-04-22 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Batterie
CN113750400A (zh) * 2020-05-29 2021-12-07 山东海科创新研究院有限公司 一种柔性阻燃填充物及二次电池
CN215195149U (zh) 2021-06-04 2021-12-17 上汽大众动力电池有限公司 动力电池模组的灭火设备
CN216169484U (zh) 2021-10-08 2022-04-05 九江中船化学科技有限公司 一种车用锂电池灭火装置
CN115282531A (zh) 2022-08-10 2022-11-04 河南省海天消防科学研究院有限责任公司 一种用于新能源汽车锂电池的灭火装置

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2712004B1 (fr) Dispositif de stockage d'électricité
US6494279B1 (en) Battery enclosure system for motive power in hazardous service environments
CN103311477B (zh) 铁道车辆用的电池箱和铁道车辆
CN103460438B (zh) 机架型的电源装置及具备拆装连接器的电池封装体
US8685556B2 (en) Electricity storage module
JP5227994B2 (ja) 蓄電モジュール
KR20220016183A (ko) 전지 및 그 관련장치, 제조방법 및 제조설비
EP4358237A1 (fr) Récipient de batterie
KR20140130741A (ko) 서플라이 네트워크를 위한 서플라이 네트워크 컴포넌트
RU2768269C2 (ru) Аккумуляторные модули и системы для дистанционного командного управления ими
TWI686983B (zh) 電池組
US20210159554A1 (en) Battery modules, a battery pack, and a method for replacing the battery modules
US20230139770A1 (en) Energy storage system using second life batteries
CN116234718A (zh) 用于管理异构电池模块的系统和方法
WO2025098628A1 (fr) Batterie au lithium auto-extinguible
KR20150081128A (ko) 플러그인 커넥터를 구비한 전력 저장 장치
KR102092917B1 (ko) 배터리 팩 및 이러한 배터리 팩을 포함하는 전력 저장 장치
KR20170132513A (ko) 전력 저장 장치
KR102712970B1 (ko) 재사용이 가능한 배터리관리시스템
KR102821925B1 (ko) 배터리 팩, 그것을 포함하는 전자 디바이스, 및 자동차
EP4644168A1 (fr) Véhicule à batteries interchangeables et batterie
TW202130013A (zh) 電池組及其製造方法
CN219739151U (zh) 一种叉车电池箱
CN223871626U (zh) 电池装置及用电装置
EP4675841A1 (fr) Dispositif d'alimentation électrique et procédé de maintenance associé

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 23805931

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1