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A Battery Pack

Abstract: The present invention discloses a battery pack. The battery pack has plurality of battery cells (10) arranged in one or more rows (R) and one or more columns (M). The battery pack (200) further has a first temperature sensor (T1), a second temperature sensor (T2), a third temperature sensor (T3), along with a fourth temperature sensor (T4) detachably attached to a fourth battery cell (C4) disposed in a central column (Mc) on one side of the battery module (100), positioned at a pre-defined distance from the third battery cell (C3), and fifth temperature sensor (T5) detachably attached to a fifth battery cell (C5) disposed in the central column (Mc) on another side of the battery module (100), positioned at a pre-defined distance from the third battery cell (C3).

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Patent Information

Application #
Filing Date
01 August 2023
Publication Number
28/2025
Publication Type
INA
Invention Field
ELECTRICAL
Status
Email
Parent Application

Applicants

TVS Motor Company Limited,
TVS Motor Company Limited, “Chaitanya”, No.12 Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006

Inventors

1. SARVANI KUCHIBHOTLA
TVS Motor Company Limited, “Chaitanya”, No.12 Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006
2. MULUGU SAI NANDA KISHORE
TVS Motor Company Limited, “Chaitanya”, No.12 Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006
3. S SHANMUGASUNDARAM
TVS Motor Company Limited, “Chaitanya”, No.12 Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006
4. PRAMILA RAO NILESHWAR
TVS Motor Company Limited, “Chaitanya”, No.12 Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006
5. DATTA RAJARAM SAGARE
TVS Motor Company Limited, “Chaitanya”, No.12 Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006

Specification

Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to a battery pack. The present application is a patent of addition with respect to the patent application number 202141007584.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Lithium-ion batteries are commonly designed to operate within a specific temperature range. However, a major drawback of using lithium-ion battery packs is the occurrence of thermal management issues within individual battery cells. These issues arise when elevated temperatures trigger exothermic reactions that generate heat, leading to further temperature increases and potentially harmful reactions. During such events, an individual cell in the battery pack can heat up to 850°C or higher, subsequently raising the temperature of neighboring cells. Consequently, the overall damage caused interrupts the power output from the battery pack.
[0003] To address these concerns, temperature sensors are typically attached to or integrated with battery packs to monitor their current temperature. When the battery temperature deviates from the normal operating range, the electronics of the system activate a cooling device (e.g., a fan) or a heating device (e.g., a heater) to adjust the battery temperature and bring it back within the acceptable range. However, it is crucial not only to have temperature sensors but also to ensure accurate temperature measurements. This is because temperature increases in the battery packs are not uniform across all cells. Therefore, numerous efforts have been made to accurately measure the temperature of the battery pack.
[0004] In one approach, a battery power source includes a chassis with a cooling air path, where the chassis comprises a cooling air inlet. Multiple battery cells are arranged within this cooling air path, and a temperature sensor is incorporated. The temperature sensor consists of a sensor section that is inserted into the chassis and fixed to a through hole. The front end of the sensor section makes thermal contact with the region of the cell that requires measurement. Additionally, a wire is drawn from the exposed portion of the sensor section, routed inside a groove formed on the outer surface of the chassis wall.
[0005] In another method, a power supply device utilizes eight temperature sensors fixed to the surface of the battery, establishing thermal coupling. This arrangement involves battery modules arranged side by side in two rows, with temperature sensors positioned at both sides and two intermediate points of each row. Each row consists of four temperature sensors, resulting in a total of eight sensors. This configuration enables the detection of the battery's temperature, focusing on cells with the highest temperature, lowest temperature, and those prone to temperature fluctuations.
[0006] Another technique involves the formation of a sensor fixing hole on the top wall of a battery case. A detachable temperature sensor unit is inserted into this hole, and the temperature detecting part of the unit makes contact with the battery cells inside the case to measure their temperature.
[0007] However, these existing technologies encounter several issues. Firstly, measuring the surface temperature of the battery pack leads to inaccurate and delayed temperature readings. Many techniques also rely on localized temperature measurements that require invasive methods such as drilling holes into cells or the battery casing to mount temperature sensors. These techniques cause undesirable damage to both the individual cells and the battery pack. Moreover, utilizing multiple temperature sensors introduces challenges in routing the wiring and connecting the sensors to a control unit. This increases installation and maintenance costs and labor. Additionally, existing technologies can interfere with coolant channels within the battery pack. If the battery pack's temperature is left unmonitored, it can lead to malfunctions and potential damage to the powered device, such as a vehicle, in which the battery pack is used.
[0008] Therefore, there is a need in the field for a battery pack with an integrated temperature measurement system and a method to control the operation of a powered device, such as a vehicle, based on the temperature measurements obtained from the battery pack. These advancements aim to address the aforementioned problems and improve the overall efficiency and safety of battery pack utilization.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present application is a patent of addition with respect to the patent application number 202141007584. For the purpose of brevity, herein the patent application number 202141007584 will be referred to as “Parent application”. The Parent application discloses a battery pack having a battery module with a specific arrangement of battery cells and detachable temperature sensors. The battery module consists of multiple battery cells arranged in rows and columns. It includes a first temperature sensor attached to a battery cell in the first column, a second temperature sensor attached to a battery cell in the last column, and a third temperature sensor attached to a battery cell equidistant from the first and second cells. Each temperature sensor is connected to a Battery Management System (BMS). The Parent application further discloses the placement of the battery cells with the temperature sensors within the battery module. As per the Parent application the first battery cell is positioned in the centre of the first column, while in another embodiment, the second battery cell is in the centre of the last column. Similarly, the third battery cell can be placed in the centre of a central column. The temperature sensors can be thermistors, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), or thermocouples. The battery module also includes top and bottom cell holders with grooves for routing wires from the temperature sensors to the BMS. The BMS has a Battery Management board with pins to connect the wires using couplers.
[00010] The Parent application primarily emphasizes the strategic placement of temperature sensors for measuring temperature in the central plane of the first, last, and central columns, i.e across the central row of the battery module.
[00011] However, with only three temperature sensors, positioned across the central row of the battery module, the ability of the temperature sensors, to monitor temperature variations across the battery module may be limited. Temperature fluctuations in other areas of the pack may go unnoticed, potentially leading to localized overheating or inadequate temperature management. Further, since temperature is a crucial factor in determining battery health and performance, thereby relying solely on the three temperature sensors, positioned across the central row of the battery module, may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the overall battery condition. The absence of temperature measurements in certain regions of the battery pack may lead to a lack of insight into potential issues or abnormalities.
[00012] Moreover, a battery pack can experience temperature gradients, with varying heat distribution across its cells. The use of only three temperature sensors may not capture these gradients accurately, making it challenging to identify areas of localized hotspots or cooling inefficiencies. Also, with a limited number of temperature sensors, it becomes difficult to pinpoint temperature anomalies at the individual cell level. This can hinder the ability to detect and address specific cell-related issues such as overheating, underperformance, or cell degradation.
[00013] The present application discloses about a battery pack that includes at least one battery module having a specific arrangement of battery cells and detachable temperature sensors, offering enhanced temperature monitoring capabilities. The battery module consists of multiple battery cells organized in rows and columns. It features a first temperature sensor attached to a battery cell in the first column and a second temperature sensor attached to a battery cell in the last column. Additionally, a third temperature sensor is connected to a battery cell located equidistantly between the first and second cells. To further enhance temperature monitoring accuracy, the present application discloses a fourth temperature sensor is attached to a fourth battery cell in a central column on one side of the battery module, positioned at a pre-defined distance from the third battery cell. Similarly, a fifth temperature sensor is attached to a fifth battery cell in the central column on another side of the battery module, positioned at a pre-defined distance from the third battery cell.
[00014] In an embodiment, the fourth battery cell is disposed in the last row of the battery module and at one end of the central column. Similarly, the fifth battery cell is disposed in the first row of the battery module and at another end of the central column.
[00015] As per an embodiment of the present claimed subject matter, all temperature sensors are directly linked to a Battery Management System (BMS) to facilitate real-time temperature data collection and analysis. The temperature sensors employed in the present claimed subject matter can be thermistors, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), or thermocouples, offering flexibility and compatibility with various measurement techniques.
[00016] As per another embodiment of the present claimed subject matter, to ensure proper wiring and organization, the battery module incorporates top and bottom cell holders equipped with grooves specifically designed for routing wires from the temperature sensors to the BMS. The BMS itself comprises a Battery Management board featuring pins that allow for easy connection of the temperature sensor wires using appropriate couplers.
[00017] Holistic temperature monitoring coverage can be attained by incorporating multiple temperature sensors, particularly the fourth and fifth sensor, positioned in the central column and on opposite sides of the battery module. By adopting a holistic approach for temperature monitoring, all relevant aspects and factors related to temperature measurement can be considered. It involves considering the diverse environmental conditions, and variations in temperature distribution across different areas of the battery module. This comprehensive perspective enables a more thorough understanding and assessment of the overall temperature conditions within the battery module. This enables a more comprehensive understanding of temperature variations across the entire battery module, minimizing the risk of localized overheating and improving temperature management.
[00018] Further, with the inclusion of the fourth and fifth sensor, the temperature measurements provide a more complete picture of battery health. This additional data helps identify potential issues or abnormalities in regions of the battery pack that would otherwise remain unmonitored with only first, second and third sensors provided on the central row of the battery module. By capturing temperature information from different areas, a more accurate assessment of the overall battery condition can be obtained.
[00019] Further, with the inclusion of the fourth and fifth sensor, along with first, second and third sensors, better detection of thermal gradients within the battery module is allowed. By measuring temperatures at various points across the central column and central row, a more precise understanding of heat distribution and potential hotspots is achieved. This enables prompt identification of areas with uneven cooling or excessive heat, facilitating effective thermal management.
[00020] Moreover, with the additional temperature sensors, fourth and fifth sensor, it becomes easier to detect temperature anomalies at the individual cell level. This helps in identifying and addressing specific cell-related problems such as overheating, underperformance, or degradation. By monitoring the temperature of each cell more accurately, prompt actions can be taken to mitigate potential issues and ensure optimal performance and longevity of the battery pack.
[00021] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present claimed subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00022] The details are described with reference to an embodiment of a battery pack along with the accompanying diagrams. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference similar features and components.
[00023] Figure 1 exemplarily illustrates an exploded perspective top view of a battery pack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00024] Figure 2 exemplarily illustrates a battery module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00025] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of a battery module of the battery pack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00026] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of the battery module within the battery pack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00027] Figure 5 illustrates a battery module within the battery pack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00028] Figure 6a illustrates a temperature sensor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00029] Figure 6b illustrates a temperature sensor attached to an individual cell, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00030] Figure 7 illustrates a flowchart of a method for controlling operation of a motor vehicle comprising at least one battery pack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00031] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
[00032] Referring to Figure 1, the battery pack 200 of the present invention boasts a well-designed housing 150 that serves as a protective casing, ensuring the safety and integrity of the internal components. The housing 150 comprises a top wall 150a, a bottom wall 150b, and opposing side walls 150c, 150d, 150e, and 150f, which together form a sturdy and enclosed structure. Within the housing 150, the battery pack 200 incorporates a battery module 100, which lies securely and efficiently. The battery module 100 comprises a collection of battery cells 10, each contributing to the overall power capacity of the pack. These battery cells 10 are carefully arranged within the module, maximizing the use of available space and optimizing the pack's performance.
[00033] In Figure 4, an embodiment of the battery pack design is depicted, showcasing the arrangement of the plurality of cells 10. The cells are organized into one or more rows, denoted as R1 to R12, and one or more columns, denoted as M0 to Mx. This configuration enables an effective utilization of space within the battery module 100, accommodating a larger number of cells and increasing the overall energy storage capacity. The battery cells 10 are connected to each other in a serial and/or parallel manner, forming an interconnected network that enhances the pack's electrical performance. Serial connections link the positive terminal of one cell to the negative terminal of the next cell, effectively increasing the overall voltage output. Parallel connections, on the other hand, connect the positive terminals together and the negative terminals together, enabling a higher current output and extending the battery pack's lifespan. By employing both serial and parallel connections, the battery pack 200 achieves an optimal balance between voltage and current capabilities, delivering the desired power output for various applications.
[00034] Referring to Figures 2 and Figure 3, the plurality of cells 10 of the battery module 100 are received by a top cell holder 20a and a bottom cell holder 20b (shown clearly in Figure 3) in order to restrict independent movement of the individual battery cells 10. In an embodiment of the invention, the top cell holder 20a and the bottom cell holder 20b each have a plurality of grooves 22 (shown in Figure 5 as well) for routing of wires in and out of the battery module 100. Further, the plurality of cells 10 of the battery module 100 are coupled with a Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS is an electronic 20 system which comprises a BMS board 30 and manages the rechargeable battery pack 200 by protecting the battery pack 200 from operating outside its safe operating temperature, monitoring its state, calculating temperature data, reporting that data, controlling environment, authenticating and/ or balancing the battery pack 200.
[00035] Referring now to Figure 3, in order to measure temperature of the battery pack 200, the present invention has a plurality of temperature sensors. The temperature sensors are detachably attached to individual battery cells in the battery pack 200. Accordingly, as seen in Figure 3, the battery module 100 of the battery pack 200 has a first temperature sensor T1 detachably attached to a first battery cell C1. Similarly, a second temperature sensor T2 is detachably attached to a second battery cell C2, a third temperature sensor T3 is detachably attached to a third battery cell C3, a fourth temperature sensor T4 is detachably attached to a fourth battery cell C4, and a fifth temperature sensor T5 attached to a fifth battery cell C5. In the present invention, and as shown in Figure 4, the first battery cell C1 is disposed in a first column M0 of the battery module 100. The second battery cell C2 is disposed in a last column Mx of the battery module 100, while the third battery cell C3 is disposed substantially equidistant from the first battery cell C1 and the second battery cell C2. To further enhance temperature monitoring accuracy, the present application discloses a fourth temperature sensor T4 is attached to the fourth battery cell C4. The fourth battery cell C4 disposed in the central column Mc on one side of the battery module 100, positioned at a pre-defined distance from the third battery cell C3. Similarly, a fifth temperature sensor T5 is attached to the fifth battery cell C5. The fifth battery cell C5 is disposed in the central column Mc on another side of the battery module 100, positioned at a pre-defined distance from the third battery cell C3.
[00036] Further, each of the first temperature sensor T1, the second temperature sensor T2, the third temperature sensor T3, fourth temperature sensor T4, and fifth temperature sensor T5 is coupled with the Battery Management System (BMS).
[00037] Further, as shown in Figure 3, more particularly, in Figures 6a and 6b, the first temperature sensor T1 is connected to a first coupler X1 by a first wire W1. Similarly, the second temperature sensor T2 is connected to a second coupler X2 by a second wire W2, the third temperature sensor T3 is connected to a third coupler X3 by a third wire W3, the fourth temperature sensor T4 is connected to a fourth coupler X4 by a fourth wire W4, the fifth temperature sensor T5 is connected to a fifth coupler X5 by a fifth wire W5.
[00038] In an embodiment of the invention, the battery pack 200 has a plurality of corresponding pins 40 positioned on one side of the BMS board 30 or on either side of the BMS board 30. The corresponding pins 40 receive the respective couplers X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 and are further coupled with the BMS in order to measure and control temperature changes in the battery pack 200. As described hereinabove, the first wire W1, the second wire W2, the third wire W3, the fourth wire W4, the fifth wire W5 are guided through the plurality of grooves 22 present on the top cell holder 20a and the bottom cell holder 20b for operably coupling the first temperature sensor T1, the second temperature sensor T2, and the third temperature sensor T3 with the BMS.
[00039] In an embodiment of the present subject matter as depicted in Figures 3 and 4, the first battery cell C1 is disposed at center of the first column M0. Alternatively, the first battery cell C1 is disposed first in a central row R6. The second battery cell C2 is disposed at center of the last column Mx. Alternatively, the second battery cell C2 is disposed last in the central row R6. While the third battery cell C3 is disposed at central column Mc. In another embodiment of the invention, and as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the third battery cell C3 is disposed at center of the central column Mc, alternatively, the third battery cell C3 is disposed at center of the central row R6. The fourth battery cell C4 is disposed in the last row R12 and at one end of the central column Mc. Similarly, the fifth battery cell C5 is disposed in the first row R1 and at another end of the central column Mc. In an embodiment, the fourth battery cell C4 is disposed at the center position of the last row R12; and the fourth battery cell C4 is disposed at the center position of the first row R1.
[00040] In another embodiment, the first temperature sensor T1, the second temperature sensor T2, the third temperature sensor T3, and the additional temperature sensors are detachably attached at a longitudinal center of the battery cells (C1, C2, C3). The fourth temperature sensor T4, and the fifth temperature sensor T5 are detachably attached at a lateral center of the battery cells (C4, C5).
[00041] There are several instances whereby large battery packs having battery cells arranged in rows or more are used for larger power outputs. In such cases, to measure the temperature of the entire battery pack accurately, there are additional temperature sensors used other than the first temperature sensor T1, the second temperature sensor T2, the third temperature sensor T3, the fourth temperature sensor T4, and the fifth temperature sensor T6. As shown in Figure 4, in an embodiment of the invention, when number of rows in the battery pack 200 is twenty or more, a sixth temperature sensor T6 (not shown) is detachably attached to a sixth battery cell C6 and a seventh temperature sensor T7 (not shown) is detachably attached to a seventh battery cell C7. In another embodiment, the sixth battery cell C6 and the seventh battery cell C7 are disposed in the central row R6 and are adjacent to the third battery cell C3 whereby the sixth battery cell C6 and the seventh battery cell C7 are disposed on either side of the third battery cell C3. In a further embodiment of the invention, the additional temperature sensors (not shown) are detachably attached to battery cells which are positioned symmetrical to the third battery cell C3. Thus, in yet another embodiment of the invention, increase in number of rows results in increase in number of temperature sensors positioned attached to battery cells which are positioned symmetrical to the third battery cell C3.
[00042] As shown in Figure 6a, the first temperature sensor T1 is connected to the first coupler X1 by the first wire W1. Accordingly, as shown in figure 6b, the first temperature sensor T1 is detachably attached to the first battery cell C1 at its longitudinal center. In an embodiment, the temperature sensor is detachably attached to the battery cell by using an adhesive means including, but not limited, to an adhesive tape, glue etc. In another embodiment of the invention, the temperature sensor is either a thermistor, or a resistance temperature detector, or a thermocouple or any such temperature sensor. In an embodiment of the invention, the battery pack 200 may be employed in any powered device such as, a vehicle, heavy machinery, power backups, etc., and based on the temperature of the battery pack 200, the operation of the powered device is controlled to avoid any kind of catastrophes.
[00043] Referring to Figure 7, the present invention discloses a method 500 for controlling operation of a motor vehicle comprising at least one battery pack 200. At step 510, a plurality of battery cells 10 of the battery pack 200 are arranged in one or more rows R and one or more columns M. At step 520, the first temperature sensor T1 is attached to the first battery cell C1 disposed in the first column M0. Similarly, the second temperature sensor T2 is attached to the second battery cell C2 disposed in the last column Mx, the third temperature sensor T3 is attached to the third battery cell C3 disposed substantially equidistant from the first battery cell C1 and the second battery cell C2, the fourth battery cell C4 is disposed in the last row R12 and at one end of the central column Mc. Similarly, the fifth battery cell C5 is disposed in the first row R1 and at another end of the central column Mc.
[00044] At step 530, the first wire W1, the second wire W2, the third wire W3, the fourth wire W4, and the fifth wire W5 are routed from the temperature first sensor T1, the second temperature sensor T2, the third temperature sensor T3, the fourth temperature sensor T4, and the fifth temperature sensor T5 respectively, which are detachably attached to the first battery cell C1, the second battery cell C2, and the third battery cell C3. As explained hereinabove, the first wire W1, the second wire W2, the third wire W3, the fourth wire W4, and the fifth wire W5 are routed through the plurality of grooves 22 to the BMS board 30 to the battery management system. At step 540, temperatures of the battery cells C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5 are transmitted from the BMS to a vehicle control unit. The temperatures of the battery cells C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5 so received are processed by the vehicle control unit. In an embodiment, the temperatures of the battery cells C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5 are processed by the BMS. Accordingly, following measures are taken by the vehicle control unit based on temperature readings received from the battery cells: at step 550a, determining maximum and minimum temperature thresholds of the battery pack from the temperatures received by the vehicle control unit; at step 550b, comparing the maximum temperature of the battery pack 200 with a predetermined threshold temperature; and at step 550c, controlling operation of the motor vehicle by the vehicle control unit based on the maximum and minimum temperatures. Accordingly, as shown in Figure 7, if the maximum temperature of the battery pack 200 goes below the predetermined threshold temperature at step 550d, the vehicle control unit changes drive mode of the motor vehicle and speed of the motor vehicle is reduced at step 550f. If the maximum temperature of the battery pack 200 goes above the predetermined threshold temperature, the motor vehicle is switched off immediately and instant cooling of the battery pack 200 is initiated by the vehicle control unit at step 550e. In an embodiment of the invention, the predetermined threshold temperature is set at 600 C. In another embodiment of the invention, a temperature flag is set when the maximum temperature is greater than the predetermined threshold temperature and based on the temperature flag, the vehicle control unit changes drive mode of the motor vehicle and reduces speed of the motor vehicle or initiates cooling of the battery pack 200. Thus, if the temperature of the battery pack 200 goes below the predetermined threshold temperature, electric charging of the battery pack 200 is initiated.
[00045] Advantageously, the present invention uses a minimum number of temperature sensors yet achieves optimum temperature measurements. This also offers an ease of routing wires from the temperature sensors to the coupler. The minimum number of wires routed through the grooves obviates slacking and also do not interfere with air cooling channels in the battery module. Further, the temperature sensors are detachably attached to the battery cells, thereby obviating any kind of invasive techniques. Owing to localised attachments of the temperature sensors, localized failures of individual battery cells are also detected. Furthermore, with the grooves provided along the length of the cell holders, the assembly process of the battery pack is guided and simplified; the wires and their contact of the cells remain intact ensuring continuous temperature measurement of the battery pack. Further still, due to the optimum temperature measurements, efficient cooling systems and protocols can be designed. Additionally, the present invention thus aids in optimizing parameters like state of charge (SOC) linked to performance and state of health (SOH) linked to battery lifetime and prevents thermal runaway of the battery pack. Also, such control mechanism in a vehicle based on the temperature of the battery pack ensures safety of the rider and the vehicle and prevents any untoward accidents from occurring.
[00046] The present subject matter is described using an exemplary battery pack which is used in the vehicle, whereas the claimed subject matter can be used in any other type of application employing above-mentioned battery pack, with required changes and without deviating from the scope of invention. Further, it is intended that the disclosure and examples given herein be considered as exemplary only. 
List of Reference numerals

200: Battery pack
100: Battery module
150: housing
150a: top wall
150b: bottom wall
150c, 150d, 150e, 150f: side wall
R1 to R12: Rows
M0 to Mx: Columns
10: cells
22: grooves
30: BMS board
40: pins
C1: first battery cell
C2: second battery cell
C3: third battery cell
C4: fourth battery cell
C5: fifth battery cell
C6: sixth battery cell
T1: first temperature sensor
T3: third temperature sensor
T4: fourth temperature sensor
T5: fifth temperature sensor
T6: sixth temperature sensor
T7: seventh temperature sensor
X1: first coupler
X2: second coupler
X3: third coupler
X4: fourth coupler
X5: fifth coupler
T2: second temperature sensor
W1: first wire
W2: second wire
W3: third wire
W4: fourth wire
W5: fifth wire
, Claims:I/We claim:
1. A battery pack (200) comprising:
a plurality of battery cells (10) arranged in one or more rows (R) and one or more columns (M);
a first temperature sensor (T1) detachably attached to a first battery cell (C1), out of the plurality of battery cells (10), disposed in a first column (M0);
a second temperature sensor (T2) detachably attached to a second battery cell (C2), out of the plurality of battery cells (10), disposed in a last column (Mx);
a third temperature sensor (T3) detachably attached to a third battery cell (C3), out of the plurality of battery cells (10), disposed substantially equidistant from the first battery cell (C1) and the second battery cell (C2) in a central column (Mc);
a fourth temperature sensor (T4) detachably attached to a fourth battery cell (C4), out of the plurality of battery cells (10), disposed in the central column (Mc) on one side of the battery module (100), positioned at a pre-defined distance from the third battery cell (C3); and
a fifth temperature sensor (T5) detachably attached to a fifth battery cell (C5), out of the plurality of battery cells (10), disposed in the central column (Mc) on another side of the battery module (100), positioned at a pre-defined distance from the third battery cell (C3)
wherein each of the first temperature sensor (T1), the second temperature sensor (T2), the third temperature sensor (T3), the fourth temperature sensor (T4), and the fifth temperature sensor (T5) are coupled with a Battery Management System.
2. The battery pack (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first battery cell (C1) is disposed at center of the first column (M0), the second battery cell (C2) is disposed at center of the last column (Mx), and the third battery cell (C3) is disposed at the center of the central column (Mc).
3. The battery pack (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first battery cell (C1) is disposed in a first position in a central row (R6), the second battery cell (C2) is disposed at a last position in the central row (R6), and the third battery cell (C3) is disposed at a center position of the central row (R6).
4. The battery pack (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fourth battery cell (C4) is disposed at the center position of the last row (R12).
5. The battery pack (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fifth battery cell (C5) is disposed at the center position of the first row (R1).
6. The battery pack (200) as claimed in claims 1, wherein the first temperature sensor (T1), the second temperature sensor (T2), the third temperature sensor (T3), the fourth temperature sensor (T4), and the fifth temperature sensor (T5) being one of a thermistor, a resistance temperature detector, and a thermocouple.
7. The battery pack (200) as claimed in claims 1, wherein the first temperature sensor (T1), the second temperature sensor (T2), third temperature sensor (T3) are detachably attached at a longitudinal center of the battery cells (C1, C2, C3), and the fourth temperature sensor (T4), and the fifth temperature sensor (T5) are detachably attached at a lateral center of the battery cells (C4, C5).
8. The battery pack (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a top cell holder (20a) and a bottom cell holder (20b), the top cell holder (20a) and the bottom cell holder (20b) further comprising a plurality of grooves (22) for routing a first wire (W1) from the first temperature sensor (T1), a second wire (W2) from the second temperature sensor (T2), a third wire (W3) from the third temperature sensor (T3), a fourth wire (W4) from the fourth temperature sensor (T4), and the fifth wire (W5) from the fifth temperature sensor (T5) to the Battery Management System.
9. The battery pack (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the Battery Management System comprises a Battery Management board (30); and a plurality of pins (40) mounted on the board (30), the plurality of pins (40) configured to receive to receive a first coupler (X1) connected to the first wire (W1), a second coupler (X2) connected to the second wire (W2), a third coupler (X3) connected to the third wire (W3), a fourth coupler (X4) connected to the fourth wire (W4), and the fifth coupler (X5) connected to the fifth wire (W5).
10. A method (500) for controlling operation of a motor vehicle comprising at least one battery pack (200), the method (500) comprising the steps of:
arranging (510) a plurality of battery cells (10) of the battery pack (200) in one or more rows (R) and one or more columns (M);
attaching (520) a first temperature sensor (T1) to a first battery cell (C1) disposed in a first column (M0), a second temperature sensor (T2) to a second battery cell (C2) disposed in a last column (Mx), a third temperature sensor (T3) to a third battery cell (C3) disposed substantially equidistant from the first battery cell (C1) and the second battery cell (C2), the fourth battery cell (C4) disposed in the last row (R12) and at one end of the central column (Mc), and the fifth battery cell (C5) is disposed in the first row (R1) and at another end of the central column (Mc);
routing (530) a first wire (W1), a second wire (W2), a third wire (W3), a fourth wire (W4) and the fifth wire (W5) from each of the first temperature sensor (T1), the second temperature sensor (T2), the third temperature sensor (T3), the fourth temperature sensor (T4), and the fifth temperature sensor (T5) respectively, through a plurality of grooves (22) to a Battery Management System;
transmitting (540) temperatures of the battery cells (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5) from the Battery Management System to a vehicle control unit; and
determining (550a) a maximum temperature and a minimum temperature of the battery pack from the temperatures received by the vehicle control unit;
comparing (550b) the maximum temperature of the battery pack (200) with a predetermined threshold temperature; and
controlling operation (550c) of the motor vehicle by the vehicle control unit based on the maximum and minimum temperatures.

Documents

Application Documents

# Name Date
1 202343051775-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [01-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-01
2 202343051775-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [01-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-01
3 202343051775-PROOF OF RIGHT [01-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-01
4 202343051775-FORM 18 [01-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-01
5 202343051775-FORM 1 [01-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-01
6 202343051775-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [01-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-01
7 202343051775-DRAWINGS [01-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-01
8 202343051775-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [01-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-01