Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to battery pack(s) in a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a system and method for preventing thermal runaway in battery pack(s) in a vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] In vehicles, battery packs are used to perform various functions. For example, battery packs are used to power traction motors in hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles. Battery packs are also used to power various electrical components in conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles such as ignition starter generator, lamps, audio devices, navigation devices, meter groups and the likes.
[003] Conventional battery packs generally uses Lithium based batteries. During charging and discharging of such battery packs, heat is usually generated owing to resistance offered by each battery cell in the battery packs. Also, battery packs in the vehicle are designed to operate under standard conditions and with standard parameters. In an event where such standard conditions and standard parameters are neglected or exceeded, excessive heat is generated in the battery packs. For example, in an electric or hybrid vehicle, when within a small duration of time, too much acceleration or instantaneous acceleration is provided by rider of the vehicle, i.e. throttle is applied constantly, the traction motor requires more current to provide the needed acceleration. This translates into higher amperage drawn from the battery packs. In other words, the motor demands more current from the battery packs at once. In such instances, if too much current is drawn at once from the battery packs, the internal resistance of the battery cells rises exponentially leading to exponential generation of heat in the battery packs which may lead to thermal runaway. Similarly, during super-fast charging of the battery packs, amount of current being sent inside the battery pack is huge, which again develops internal resistance within the battery cells, leading to substantial exponential generation of heat, which again may lead to thermal runaway. Thermal runaway is a condition when battery packs generate more heat than it dissipates or rejects. In some unfortunate incidents, owing to thermal runaway, self-ignition of battery packs may occur. Therefore, whenever the battery packs are charged or current is drawn from the battery packs beyond the defined parameters, events such as thermal runaway may take place, leading to accidents such as fire outbreak within the battery packs.
[004] Also, it has often been seen that, even with battery pack manufacturers recommending certain ratings for power draw and with all the systems in check to prevent excessive heat generation in the battery packs, thermal runaways are still a prevalent accident. As thermal runaways in battery packs may lead to catastrophic accidents leading to fatalities, it becomes of utmost importance to keep the temperature of battery packs under permissible standard limits, for example within 60 degree Celsius and 70 degree Celsius.
[005] One of the reasons why thermal runaway occurs is that the heat generated in the battery packs accumulates due to insufficient heat dissipation. In order to overcome the thermal runaway in battery packs, aluminium or copper casing with heat sinks and/ fins have been used for dissipating the heat generated in the battery packs. Such heat sinks and fins aid in regulated heat dissipation. However, for aesthetical and functional purposes, the battery packs along with the aluminium or copper casing are conventionally placed either below the utility area of the vehicle which is enclosed by body panels of the vehicle and/or within the floorboard of the vehicle. Such placements encloses the battery packs in closed areas. In many cases cut-outs are provided to enable adequate heat dissipation, however due to road conditions and lack of maintenance, such cut-outs often gets choked. Thereby, due to placement of battery packs in closed areas and also choking of the cut outs, the battery packs are prevented from coming in direct contact with high volumes of the direct circulating air. In such scenarios, in critical conditions as discussed above, sometimes the heat generated in the battery packs is much more than heat rejected or dissipated by the battery packs.
[006] In some vehicles, the battery packs are constantly cooled by using forced induction systems such as systems using cooling fans. However, such systems involves cumbersome packaging, unnecessary space utilization along with costs. Further, cooling by forced induction may be sufficient for cooling battery packs up till low temperatures i.e. below 60 degree Celsius or 70 degree Celsius. However, in scenarios such as thermal runaways, when the temperature of the battery packs rises exponentially within a limited time span, the instant requirement of cooling the battery packs may not be met by using forced induction systems alone.
[007] In some vehicles, control units have been incorporated which sense the heat generated by the battery packs and the throttle being provided by the rider. On determination of heat generated by the battery packs being more than the permissible limit, further throttling by the rider is prevented by the control unit to avoid excessive heat generation in the battery packs. However such measures only stop further heating of the battery packs but does not resolve the requirement of instant cooling of the battery packs in unprecedented scenarios of thermal runaway.
[008] In view of the foregoing, there is a need-felt to overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior arts.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[009] In one aspect of the present invention, a system for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs in a vehicle is disclosed. The system comprises one or more first battery packs, one or more second battery packs, one or more temperature sensors, one or more heat transfer modules and a control unit.
[010] The one or more temperature sensors are mounted on the vehicle and are configured to detect temperature of the one or more first battery packs provided in the vehicle.
[011] Each of the one or more heat transfer modules comprises a heat absorbing surface and a heat radiating surface. The heat absorbing surface of the one or more heat transfer modules is operably connected to the one or more first battery packs and the heat radiating surface of the one or more heat transfer module is operably connected to a heat sink such that heat generated in the one or more first battery packs is absorbed by the heat absorbing surface of the one or more heat transfer modules and transferred to the heat radiating surface of the one or more heat transfer modules wherein the heat is discharged or rejected to a heat sink. In a non-limiting example, the heat sink is generally in contact with high volumes of direct circulating air surrounding the vehicle. The one or more heat transfer modules are operably connected to the one or more second battery packs.
[012] The control unit is in communication with the one or more temperature sensors as well as the one or more second battery packs. The control unit receives temperature data indicative of temperature of the one or more first battery packs. On receiving the temperature data, the control unit determines whether one or more pre-defined conditions are satisfied. On satisfaction of the one or more pre-defined conditions, the control unit instructs the one or more second battery packs to activate the one or more heat transfer modules. In case the one or more pre-defined conditions are not satisfied, the control unit instructs the temperature sensors to detect the temperature of the one or more first battery packs at regular pre-defined intervals.
[013] In an embodiment, the one or more heat transfer modules are Peltier modules.
[014] In an embodiment, the one or more first battery packs comprises one or more main battery packs and/or one or more auxiliary battery packs. For the purposes of the present invention, the main battery packs are battery packs used to power one or more traction motors of the electric vehicle and/or hybrid vehicle whereas the one or more auxiliary battery packs are battery packs used to power electrical components other than the traction motors such as integrated starter generator, lights, audio devices, navigation devices, meter groups and other electrical components in the vehicle. In this embodiment, the main battery packs and/or the auxiliary battery packs are cooled by the one or more heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more second battery packs. The one or more second battery packs activate the one or more heat transfer modules upon satisfaction of the one or more pre-defined conditions. In an event where the one or more second battery packs activate the heat transfer modules of both the main battery packs and the auxiliary battery packs, the charge of the one or more second battery packs may be reserved as first pre-defined charge for activating the heat transfer modules operably connected to the main battery packs and as second pre-defined charge for activating the heat transfer modules operably connected to the auxiliary battery packs. In a non-limiting example, the heat transfer modules are divided into one or more first heat transfer modules and one or more second heat transfer modules. The one or more first heat transfer modules are operably connected to the one or more main battery packs and the one or more second heat transfer modules are operably connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs. The one or more second battery packs are operably connected to the one or more first heat transfer modules and second heat transfer modules. On satisfaction of the one or more pre-defined conditions, the control unit instructs the one or more second battery packs to activate the one or more first heat transfer modules and one or more second heat transfer modules. In case the total charge of the one or more second battery packs is 100 percent, a first pre-defined charge, for example, x percent, may be reserved for activating the one or more first heat transfer modules and a second pre-defined charge, for example, 100-x percent, is reserved for activating the one or more second heat transfer modules. In a non-limiting example, the value of x is 70 which indicates that 70 percent charge of the one or more second battery packs will be reserved for charging the one or more first heat transfer modules and 30 percent charge of the one or more second battery packs is reserved for charging the one or more second heat transfer modules. Such reservation of charge in the one or more second battery packs ensure that there is always a first pre-defined charge for activating the one or more first heat transfer modules to avoid thermal runaway in the one or more main battery packs and a second pre-defined charge for activating the one or more second heat transfer modules to avoid thermal runaway in the one or more auxiliary battery packs.
[015] In an embodiment, the one or more first battery packs are one or more main battery packs and the one or more second battery packs are one or more auxiliary battery packs. The meaning of term “main battery packs” and “auxiliary battery packs” for the purpose of present invention has already been provided in preceding paragraphs. In such an embodiment, the heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more main battery packs are powered or activated by the one or more auxiliary battery packs. As the one or more auxiliary battery packs are used to power electrical components (other than traction motor) in the vehicle, a pre-defined charge of the one or more auxiliary battery packs should be reserved for the charging the one or more heat transfer modules to avoid a situation of thermal runaway in the one or main battery packs. In case the total charge of the one or more auxiliary battery packs is 100 percent, a pre-defined charge, for example, x percent, may be reserved for activating the one or more heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more main battery packs and 100-x percent charge may be reserved for powering the electrical components. In one non-limiting example, the pre-defined charge is 10-30 percent of the total charge of the one or more auxiliary battery packs. Such reservation of charge in the auxiliary battery packs ensure that there is always a pre-defined charge for activating the one or more heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more main battery packs in order to avoid thermal runaway in the one or more main battery packs.
[016] In an embodiment, the one or more first battery packs are one or more auxiliary battery packs and the one or more second battery packs are one or more main battery packs. The meaning of term “main battery packs” and “auxiliary battery packs” for the purpose of present invention has already been provided in preceding paragraphs. In such an embodiment, the heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs are activated by the one or more main battery packs. As the one or more main battery packs are used to power traction motor(s) in the vehicle, a pre-defined charge of the one or more main battery packs should be reserved for the charging the one or more heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs to avoid a situation of thermal runaway in the one or more auxiliary battery packs. In case the total charge of the one or more main battery packs is 100 percent, a pre-defined charge, for example, x percent, may be reserved for activating the one or more heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs and 100-x percent charge may be reserved for powering the traction motor(s). In one non-limiting example, the pre-defined charge is 10-30 percent of the total charge of the one or more main battery packs. Such reservation of charge in the main battery packs ensure that there is always a pre-defined charge for activating the one or more heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs in order to avoid thermal runaway in the one or more auxiliary battery packs.
[017] In an embodiment, the one or more pre-defined conditions comprises the following conditions: (i) the temperature of the one or more first battery packs is equal to or greater than a pre-defined temperature and (ii) difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs is greater than a pre-defined value. The difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs is calculated or determined only when temperature of the one or more first battery packs is greater than the pre-defined temperature. The temperatures of the one or more first battery packs are detected pre-defined number of times at pre-defined intervals. In one non-limiting example, pre-defined temperature is 60 degree Celsius, the pre-defined value is zero, the pre-defined number of times is 3 and the pre-defined intervals is between 5 seconds and 10 seconds.
[018] In an embodiment, the system further comprises one or more tubular pipes though which refrigerant for cooling the one or more first battery packs flows. The one or more tubular pipes are operably connected to the one or more first battery packs and the heat absorbing surface of each of the heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more first battery packs.
[019] In an embodiment, the heat sink comprises a plurality of fins. In one non-limiting example, the plurality of fins are exposed to an atmosphere surrounding the vehicle. The plurality of fins is generally exposed to high volumes of circulating air surrounding the vehicle. In another non-limiting example, the plurality of fins face a cutout provided in a utility area of the vehicle and/or a floorboard of the vehicle.
[020] In an embodiment, the one or more heat transfer modules are arranged on at least one of: (i) an outer surface of a bottom wall of the one or more auxiliary battery packs arranged in a floorboard of the vehicle, (ii) an outer surface of one or more side walls of the one or more auxiliary battery packs arranged in a floorboard of the vehicle, (iii) an outer surface of a bottom wall of the one or more auxiliary battery packs arranged below a utility area of the vehicle, (iv) an outer surface of one or more side walls of the one or more auxiliary battery packs arranged below a utility area of the vehicle, (v) an outer surface of a bottom wall of the one or more main battery packs being arranged below a utility area of the vehicle; (vi) an outer surface of one or more side walls of the one or more main battery packs arranged below a utility area of the vehicle; (vii) an outer surface of a bottom wall of the one or more main battery packs arranged in a floorboard of the vehicle; and (viii) an outer surface of one or more side walls of the one or more main battery packs arranged in a floorboard of the vehicle.
[021] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs in a vehicle is disclosed. The method comprises a step of detecting temperature of the one or more first battery packs. The step of detecting temperature is performed by one or more temperature sensors. The method further comprises a step of receiving temperature data indicative of the temperature of the one or more first battery packs. The step of receiving temperature data is performed by a control unit in communication with the one or more temperature sensors. The method further comprises a step of instructing one or more second battery packs to activate one or more heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more first battery packs upon satisfaction of one or more pre-defined conditions. The one or more pre-defined conditions are based on temperature data received from the one or more temperature sensors. The step of instructing the one or more second battery packs is performed by the control unit. The method further comprises a step of absorbing heat from one or more first battery packs. The step of absorbing is performed by a heat absorbing surface of each of the one or more heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more first battery packs. The method further comprises a step of discharging or rejecting heat received from the one or more heat absorbing surfaces to a heat sink. The step of discharging or rejecting the heat to the heat sink is performed by a heat radiating surface of each of the one or more heat transfer modules.
[022] In an embodiment, the one or more pre-defined conditions comprises the following conditions: (i) the temperature of the one or more first battery packs is equal to or greater than a pre-defined temperature and (ii) difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs is greater than a pre-defined value. The difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs is calculated or determined only when temperature of the one or more first battery packs is greater than the pre-defined temperature. The temperatures of the one or more first battery packs are detected pre-defined number of times at pre-defined intervals. In one non-limiting example, pre-defined temperature is 60 degree Celsius, the pre-defined value is zero, the pre-defined number of times is 3 and the pre-defined intervals is between 5 seconds and 10 seconds.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[023] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
Figure 1 is a block diagram of a system for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs in a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of a heat transfer module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a heat transfer module illustrating absorption of heat by the heat absorbing surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d are schematic views of a two-wheeler vehicle layout illustrating arrangement of the heat transfer module, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 5a and Figure 5b is a flow chart illustrating a method for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs in a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs in a vehicle, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[024] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder.
[025] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a system 100 for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs 104 in a vehicle 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The term “vehicle” for the purposes of the present invention is not limited to two-wheelers such as bicycles, scooters, motorcycles and include three-wheeler and four wheelers such as rickshaws, cars, trucks and the likes. Also, the term “vehicle” includes conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles and/or hybrid vehicles.
[026] As shown in Figures 1-6, the system 100 comprises one or more first battery packs 104, one or more second battery packs 114, one or more temperature sensors 106, one or more heat transfer modules 108 and a control unit 112.
[027] The one or more temperature sensors 106 are mounted on the vehicle 102 and are configured to detect temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104. The one or more temperature sensors 106 are in communication with the control unit 112.
[028] The one or more heat transfer modules 108 are operably connected to the one or more first battery packs 104. Each of the one or more heat transfer modules 108 comprises a heat absorbing surface 108a (Refer Figure 2) and a heat radiating surface 108b (Refer Figure 2). The heat absorbing surface 108a is operably connected to the one or more first battery packs 104 and the heat radiating surface 108b is operably connected to a heat sink 110. The heat absorbing surface(s) 108a of the one or more heat transfer modules 108 absorbs heat from the one or more first battery packs 104 and transfer heat to the heat radiating surface(s) 108b of the one or more heat transfer modules 108. The heat from heat radiating surface(s) 108b is rejected to the heat sink 110 (Refer Figure 2). The one or more heat transfer modules 108 are also operably connected to the one or more second battery packs 114.
[029] The control unit 112 is in communication with the one or more temperature sensors 106 and the one or more second battery packs 114. On receiving temperature data indicative of temperature of one or more first battery packs 104, the control unit 112 determines whether one or more pre-defined conditions are satisfied. The pre-defined conditions are generally pre-configured in the control unit 112 as a factory setting. On satisfaction of the one or more pre-defined conditions, the control unit 112 instructs the one or more second battery packs 114 to activate the one or more heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the one or more first battery packs 104. On activation of the one or more heat transfer modules 108, the heat absorbing surface(s) 108a of the one or more heat transfer modules 108 will absorb heat from the one or more first battery packs 104 and transfer heat to the heat radiating surface(s) 108b of the one or more heat transfer modules 108 wherein the heat is rejected or discharged to the heat sink 110. The control unit 112 will continue to determine whether the one or more pre-defined conditions are satisfied. In an event, one or more pre-defined conditions are not satisfied or met, the one or more heat transfer modules 108 will not be activated, and the control unit 112 will instruct the one or more temperature sensors 106 to detect temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 at pre-defined time intervals.
[030] It is to be understood that the present invention can be used independently to cool the one or more first battery packs 104 or can be used in combination with one or more conventional cooling systems. In a scenario where the present invention is used to cool the one or more first battery packs 104 with other conventional methods, the conventional methods may be used when the one or more pre-defined conditions are not satisfied. In other words, the present invention is used when the one or more pre-defined conditions are satisfied, and conventional methods of cooling are used when the one or more pre-defined conditions are not satisfied.
[031] In an embodiment, the one or more first battery packs 104 may be one or more main battery packs 118 and/or one or more auxiliary battery packs 120. For the purposes of the present invention, the main battery packs 118 are battery packs used to power one or more traction motors of the electric vehicle and/or hybrid vehicle whereas the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 are battery packs used to power electrical components other than the traction motors such as integrated starter generator, lights, audio devices, navigation devices, meter groups and other electrical components in the vehicle. It is to be understood that in case of conventional internal combustion engine vehicles having no traction motor(s) to propel the vehicle 102, the one or more first battery packs 104 are one or more auxiliary battery packs 120. The one or more second battery packs 114 may be independent battery packs to activate the one or more heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the one or more main battery packs 118 and/or one more auxiliary battery packs 120. The charge of the one or more second battery packs 114 may be reserved as a first pre-defined charge to activate the one or more heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the main battery packs 118 and as a second pre-defined charge to activate the one or more heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the auxiliary packs 120. In one non-limiting example, one or more first heat transfer modules are operably connected to the one or more main battery packs 118 and one or more second heat transfer modules 108 are connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120. The total charge of the one or more second battery packs 114 is 100 percent out of which x percent of charge, for example 70 percent, is reserved for activating the first heat transfer modules and the 100-x percent charge, for example 30 percent, is reserved for activating the second heat transfer modules 108. The value of x may vary as per the requirements of the vehicle. By reserving the charge of the one or more second battery packs 114 for one or more first heat transfer modules and the one or more second heat transfer modules 108, the system ensures that charge of the one or more second battery packs 114 is utilized efficiently and a scenario is avoided where entire charge of the one or more second battery packs 114 is used for cooling the main battery packs 118 and no charge is left for cooling the auxiliary battery packs 120. The vice versa is also true wherein entire charge of the one or more second battery packs 114 is used for cooling the auxiliary battery packs 120 and no charge is left for cooling the main battery packs 118.
[032] In another embodiment, the one or more first battery packs 104 are one or more main battery packs 118 and the one or more second battery packs 114 are one or more auxiliary battery packs 120. The meaning of term “main battery packs” and “auxiliary battery packs” for the purpose of present invention has already been provided in preceding paragraphs. In such an embodiment, it is to be understood that one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 are used to activate the heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the one or more main battery packs 118 as well as power the electrical components (other than traction motor) of the vehicle 102. In order to ensure that the charge in the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 is available for activating the one or more heat transfer modules 108 upon satisfaction of the one or more pre-defined condition, a pre-defined charge of the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 may be reserved only for activating the one or more heat transfer modules 108. For example, the total charge of the one or more second battery packs 114 is 100 percent out of which x percent charge, for example, 10-30 percent of the charge is reserved for activating the one or more heat transfer modules 108 and remaining charge 100-x, for example, 70-90 percent is reserved for powering the electrical components of the vehicle 102. It is to be understood that the value of x may vary depending upon the requirements of the vehicle 102.
[033] In another embodiment, the one or more first battery packs 104 are one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 and the one or more second battery packs 114 are the one or more main battery packs 118. The meaning of term “main battery packs” and “auxiliary battery packs” for the purpose of present invention has already been provided in preceding paragraphs. In such an embodiment, it is to be understood that one or more main battery packs 118 are used to activate the one or more heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the auxiliary battery packs 120 as well as power the traction motor(s) of the vehicle 102. In order to ensure that the charge in the one or more main battery packs 118 is available for activating the one or more heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 upon satisfaction of the one or more pre-defined condition, a pre-defined charge of the one or more main battery packs 118 may be reserved only for activating the one or more heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120. For example, the total charge of the one or more main battery packs 118 is 100 percent out of which x percent charge, for example, 10-30 percent of the charge is reserved for activating the one or more heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 and remaining charge 100-x, for example, 70-90 percent is reserved for powering the traction motor of the vehicle 102. It is to be understood that the value of x may vary depending upon the requirements of the vehicle 102.
[034] In an embodiment, the one or more pre-defined conditions comprises the following: (i) the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is equal to or greater than a pre-defined temperature and (ii) difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs 104 is greater than a pre-defined value. The difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs 104 is calculated only when temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is greater than the pre-defined temperature. The temperatures of the one or more first battery packs 104 are detected pre-defined number of times at pre-defined intervals. In one non-limiting example, pre-defined temperature is 60 degree Celsius, the pre-defined value is zero, the pre-defined number of times is 3 and the pre-defined intervals is between 5 seconds and 10 seconds.
[035] In an embodiment, the system 100 further comprises one or more tubular pipes 116 though which refrigerant for cooling the one or more first battery packs 104 flows. The one or more tubular pipes 116 are operably connected to the one or more first battery packs 104 and the heat absorbing surface 108a of each of the one or more heat transfer modules 108.
[036] In an embodiment, the heat sink 110 comprises a plurality of fins 110a. The plurality of fins 110a are exposed to an atmosphere 126 surrounding the vehicle 102.
[037] In an embodiment, the one or more heat transfer modules 108 are arranged on at least one of: (i) an outer surface of a bottom wall 120a of the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 arranged in a floorboard 122 of the vehicle 102, (ii) an outer surface of one or more side walls 120b of the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 arranged in a floorboard 122 of the vehicle 102, (iii) an outer surface of a bottom wall 120a of the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 arranged below a utility area 124 of the vehicle 102, (iv) an outer surface of one or more side walls 120b of the one or more auxiliary battery packs 120 arranged below a utility area 124 of the vehicle 102, (v) an outer surface of a bottom wall 118a of the one or more main battery packs 118 being arranged below a utility area 124 of the vehicle 102; (vi) an outer surface of one or more side walls 118b of the one or more main battery packs 118 arranged below a utility area 124 of the vehicle 102; (vii) an outer surface of a bottom wall 118a of the one or more main battery packs 118 arranged in a floorboard 122 of the vehicle 102; and (viii) an outer surface of one or more side walls 118b of the one or more main battery packs 118 arranged in a floorboard 122 of the vehicle 102.
[038] Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of a heat transfer module 108, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[039] The heat transfer module 108 shown in Figure 2 is a Peltier Module. The Peltier Module comprises a first ceramic plate 128 and a second ceramic plate 130. One or more N-type semiconductors 132 and one or more P-type semiconductors 134 are arranged between the two ceramic plates 128, 130 and space is provided between the N-type semiconductor(s) 132 and the P-type semiconductor(s) 134 forming a thermocouple junction. On activation of the Peltier Module i.e., when an electric current flows through the Peltier Module, electrons move in one element and positive holes moves in another element. This allows one ceramic plate, for example, the first ceramic plate 128, to be a cold surface and capable of absorbing heat and second ceramic plate 130, to be a hot surface, capable of radiating the heat. In other words, on activation of the Peltier Module, the first ceramic plate 128 acts as a heat absorbing surface 108a and the second ceramic plate 130 acts as a heat radiating surface 108b. As already stated, the heat absorbing surface 128, 108a of the Peltier Module is operably connected to the first battery pack(s) 104 and the heat radiating surface 130, 108b of the Peltier Module is operably connected to the heat sink 110. Also, there can be one or more Peltier Modules which are activated by the one or more second battery packs 114.
[040] It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to Peltier Modules and may utilize other heat transfer modules having a heat absorbing surface 108a capable of absorbing heat from the one or more first battery packs 104 and a heat radiating surface 108b capable of radiating the heat transferred from the heat absorbing surface 108a to the heat sink 110.
[041] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a heat transfer module 108 illustrating absorption of heat by the heat absorbing surface 108a, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[042] As shown, one or more tubular pipes 116 are operably connected to the heat absorbing surface 108a of the heat transfer modules 108. Although not shown, the one or more tubular pipes 116 are also operably connected to the one or more first battery packs 104. A pump 136 (Refer Figure 6) is used to circulate refrigerant in the one or more tubular pipes 116 such that, while circulating, refrigerant absorbs heat from the one or more first battery packs 104 and rejects the absorbed heat to the heat absorbing surface(s) 108 of the one or more heat transfer modules 108. In one non-limiting example, the one or more tubular pipes 116 are partially embedded in the heat absorbing surface(s) 108a of the one or more heat transfer modules 108. In another non-limiting example, the one or more tubular pipes 116 are fully embedded in the heat absorbing surface(s) 108a of the one or more heat transfer modules 108. It is to be understood that the system 100 further comprises a storage compartment for storing refrigerant.
[043] Figure 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d are schematic views of a two-wheeler vehicle layout illustrating arrangement of the heat transfer module 108, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
[044] As shown in Figure 4a, the two-wheeler vehicle 102 comprises the main battery pack 118 and the auxiliary battery pack 120. The main battery pack 118 is arranged below the utility area 124 of the vehicle 102 and the auxiliary battery pack 120 is arranged in a floorboard 122 of the vehicle 102. The heat transfer module 108 is arranged on an outer surface of one of the side walls 120b of the auxiliary battery pack 120. It is to be understood that one or more heat transfer modules 108 can be arranged on one or more sidewalls 120b of the auxiliary battery pack 120. It is to also to be understood that, in Figure 4a, the auxiliary battery pack 120 is the first battery pack 104 operably connected to the heat transfer module 108 and the heat transfer module 108 is activated by the second battery pack 114 on satisfaction of the one or more pre-defined conditions. In an embodiment, the second battery pack 114 is an independent battery pack. The second battery pack 114 may also be the main battery pack 118. In a scenario, where the main battery pack 118 is activating the auxiliary battery pack 120, a pre-defined charge of the main battery pack 118 may be reserved for activating the heat transfer module 108 operably connected to the auxiliary battery pack 120.
[045] As shown in Figure 4b, the main battery pack 118 is arranged below a utility area 124 of the vehicle 102 and the auxiliary battery pack 120 is arranged in a floorboard 122 of the vehicle 102. The heat transfer module 108 is arranged on an outer surface of a bottom wall 120a of the auxiliary battery pack 120. It is to be understood that one or more heat transfer modules 108 can be arranged on an outer surface of a top wall (opposite the bottom wall 120a) of the auxiliary battery pack 120. It is also to be understood that, in Figure 4b, the auxiliary battery pack 120 is the first battery pack 104 operably connected to the heat transfer module 108 and the heat transfer module 108 is activated by a second battery pack 114 on satisfaction of one or more pre-defined conditions. The second battery pack 114 may be an independent battery pack arranged in a vehicle. The second battery pack may also be the main battery pack 118. In a scenario, where the main battery pack 118 is activating the heat transfer module operably connected to the auxiliary battery pack 120, a pre-defined charge of the main battery pack 120 may be reserved for activating the heat transfer module 108 operably connected to auxiliary battery pack 120. It is to be understood that heat transfer module is arranged on the bottom wall 120a of the auxiliary battery pack 120 such that adequate clearance from the road is maintained.
[046] As shown in Figure 4c, the main battery pack 118 is arranged below a utility area 124 of the vehicle 102 and the auxiliary battery pack 120 is arranged in a floorboard 122 of the vehicle 102. The heat transfer module 108 is arranged on an outer surface of a bottom wall 118a of the main battery pack 118. It is to be understood that one or more heat transfer modules 108 can be arranged on an outer surface of a top wall (opposite the bottom wall 118a) of the main battery pack 118. It is to also to be understood that, in Figure 4c, the main battery pack 118 is the first battery pack 104 operably connected to the heat transfer module 108 and the heat transfer module 108 is activated by a second battery pack 114 on satisfaction of one or more pre-defined conditions. The second battery pack 114 may be an independent battery pack arranged in a vehicle 102. The second battery pack may also be auxiliary battery pack 120 activating the heat transfer module 108 operably connected to the main battery pack 118. In a scenario, where the auxiliary battery pack 120 activates the heat transfer module 108 operably connected to main battery pack 118, a pre-defined charge of the auxiliary battery pack 120 may be reserved for activating the heat transfer module 108 operably connected to main battery pack 118. It is to be understood that heat transfer module is arranged on the bottom wall 118a of the main battery pack 118 such that adequate clearance from the road is maintained.
[047] As shown in Figure 4d, the main battery pack 118 is arranged below a utility area 124 of the vehicle 102 and an auxiliary battery pack 120 is arranged in a floorboard 122 of the vehicle 102. The heat transfer module 108 is arranged on an outer surface of one of the side walls 118b of the main battery pack 118. It is to be understood that one or more heat transfer modules 108 can be arranged on one or more sidewalls 118b of the main battery pack 118. It is also to be understood that, in Figure 4d, the main battery pack 118 is the first battery pack 104 operably connected to the heat transfer module 108 and the heat transfer module 108 is activated by a second battery pack 114 on satisfaction of one or more pre-defined conditions. The second battery pack 114 may be an independent battery pack. The second battery pack may also be the auxiliary battery pack 120 activating the heat transfer module 108 operably connected to the main battery pack 118. In a scenario, where the auxiliary battery pack 120 is activating the heat transfer module 108 operably connected to the main battery pack 118, a pre-defined charge of the auxiliary battery pack 120 may be reserved for activating the heat transfer module 108 operably connected to the main battery pack 118.
[048] Also, although not shown in Figures 4a-4d, the auxiliary battery pack 120 may be arranged below a utility area 124 of the vehicle 102 and one or more heat transfer modules 108 may be arranged on an outer surface of the one or more sidewalls 120b, top wall and/or bottom wall 120a of the auxiliary battery pack 120.
[049] Also, although not shown in Figures 4a-4d, the main battery pack 118 may be arranged in a floorboard 122 of the vehicle 102 and one or more heat transfer modules 108 may be arranged on an outer surface of the one or more sidewalls 118b, top wall and/or bottom wall 118a of the main battery pack 118.
[050] Figure 5a and Figure 5b is a flow chart illustrating a method 200 for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs 104 in a vehicle 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[051] As shown, at step 201, the method comprises detecting temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104. The step 201 of detecting is performed by one or more temperature sensors 106 mounted on the vehicle 102.
[052] At step 202, the method comprises receiving temperature data indicative of temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104. The step of receiving is performed by a control unit 112. The control unit 112 is in communication with the one or more temperature sensors 106.
[053] At step 203, the method comprises instructing one or more second battery packs 114 to activate one or more heat transfer modules 108. The step of instructing is performed by the control unit 112 on satisfaction of one or more pre-defined conditions based on temperature data.
[054] At step 204, the method comprises absorbing heat from one or more first battery packs 104. The step of absorbing heat is performed by each of the one or more heat absorbing surface 108a of the one or more heat transfer modules 108.
[055] At step 205, the method comprises discharging or rejecting heat received from the one or more heat absorbing surfaces 108a to the heat sink 110. The step of discharging or rejecting heat is performed by a heat radiating surface 108b of each of the one or more heat transfer modules 108.
[056] In an embodiment, the one or more pre-defined conditions comprises the following conditions: (i) the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is equal to or greater than a pre-defined temperature and/or (ii) difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs 104 is greater than a pre-defined value. The difference in the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is determined only when temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is greater than the pre-defined temperature. The temperatures of the one or more first battery packs 104 are detected pre-defined number of times at pre-defined intervals. In one non-limiting example, pre-defined temperature is 60 degree Celsius, the pre-defined value is zero, the pre-defined number of times is 3 and the pre-defined intervals is between 5 seconds and 10 seconds.
[057] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method 300 for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs 104 in a vehicle 102, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
[058] As shown, at step 301, the vehicle 102 is started. The switching ON or the start of the engine of the vehicle 102 will initiate the method 300.
[059] At step 302, the one or more temperature sensors 106 detects the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 arranged in the vehicle 102 and transmits the temperature data indicative of temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 to the control unit 112.
[060] At step 303, the control unit 112 determines whether the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is greater than or equal to a pre-defined temperature. In one-non-limiting example, the pre-defined temperature is 60 degree Celsius. In an event, the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is not equal to or greater than a pre-defined temperature, the control unit, at step 304, instructs the one or more temperature sensors 106 to measure the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 at a pre-defined interval of time, for example, 10 seconds. The flow chart indicates the pre-defined time interval of 10 seconds. However, the same should not be construed as limiting and has been mentioned in the flowchart only for the purpose of explanation. In an event, the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is equal to or greater than the pre-defined temperature, the control unit 112, at step 305, instructs the temperature sensors 106 to detect the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 pre-defined number of times at pre-defined intervals. For example, the control unit 112 instructs the temperature sensors 106 to detect the temperature of the one or more first battery packs three times in an interval of 5 seconds. On receiving such instructions, the temperature sensor 106 will detect the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 as follows: T1 at 5 seconds, T2 at 10 second and T3 at 15 seconds and will transmit the temperature data indicative of temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 to the control unit 112. The flow chart indicates values of pre-defined number of times as 3 and pre-defined interval of time as 5 seconds. However, these values should not be construed as limiting and has been mentioned in the flowchart only for the purpose of representation.
[061] At step 306, the control unit 112, based on the received temperature data, calculates a difference in the detected temperatures (DT1=T2-T1, DT2= T3-T2 and DT3=T3-T2) of the one or more first battery packs.
[062] At step 307, the control unit determines whether the difference in temperatures DT1, DT2 and DT3 is greater than a pre-defined value. In one non-limiting example, the pre-defined value is zero. In an event, the difference in temperatures DT1, DT2 and DT3 is less than or equal to the pre-defined value, the control unit redirects the method to step 304. In an event, the sum is greater than the pre-defined value, the control unit, at step 308 instructs the one or more second battery packs 114 to activate the one or more heat transfer modules 108. On activation of the one or more heat transfer modules 108, the control unit 112 will continue to monitor temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 with the one or more temperature sensors 106 at pre-defined interval of time as shown at step 309. The value of pre-defined interval of time has been indicated as 10 seconds at step 309. However, this value is only for the purpose of explanation and should not be construed as limiting.
[063] At step 310, the control unit 112 determines if the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 decreases after activation of the one or more heat transfer modules 108 .
[064] In one non-limiting example, at step 310, the control unit 112 instructs the temperature sensors 106 to detect the temperature, for example T4, of the one or more first battery packs 104 after activation of the one or more heat transfer modules 108 and calculate the difference (T4-T3) in temperature (T4) of the one or more first battery packs 104 with the last detected temperature (T3) of the one or more first battery packs 104. . In case the difference in temperature (T4-T3) is equal to or less than a pre-defined value, the control unit 112 instructs the one or more second battery packs 114 to deactivate the heat transfer modules 108 as shown at step 311. In case the difference in temperature (T4-T3) is greater than the pre-defined value, the control unit instructs the one or more temperature sensors to again detect a temperature, for example T5, and the difference of the temperature T5 with the last detected temperature T4 is measured. This process will continue till the difference in the measured temperature and the last detected temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is less than or equal to zero, which signifies that the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is decreasing and there is no longer a need of one or more second battery packs 114 to cool the one or more first battery packs 104. The pre-defined value of difference in temperature (T4-T3) has been shown in the flowchart as 0. This value has been shown only for the purpose of explanation and should not be construed as limiting.
[065] On activation of the one or more heat transfer modules 108 the pump 136 in the system circulates refrigerant, stored in the storage compartment or refrigerant reservoir, in one or more tubular pipes 116 operably connected to the one or more first battery packs 104 and the one or more heat transfer modules 108. The heat generated in the one or more first battery packs 104 is rejected or discharged into refrigerant which gets heated up and the heat of the refrigerant is absorbed by the heat absorbing surface(s) 108a of the one or more heat transfer modules 108 which is, thereafter, transferred to the heat radiating surface(s) 108b of the one or more heat transfer module 108. The heat radiating surface(s) 108b discharges or rejects heat to the heat sink 110 in contact with air surrounding the vehicle 102.
[066] It is to be understood that typical hardware configuration of the control unit 112 can include a set of instructions that can be executed to cause the control unit 112 to perform the above-disclosed method.
[067] The control unit 112 may include a processor which may be a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both. The processor may be one or more general processors, digital signal processors, application specific integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays, servers, networks, digital circuits, analog circuits, combinations thereof, or other now known or later developed devices for analysing and processing data. The processor may implement a software program, such as code generated manually i.e. programmed.
[068] The control unit 112 may include a memory. The memory may be a main memory, a static memory, or a dynamic memory. The memory may include, but is not limited to computer readable storage media such as various types of volatile and non-volatile storage media, including but not limited to random access memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable read-only memory, flash memory, magnetic tape or disk, optical media and the like. The memory is operable to store instructions executable by the processor. The functions, acts or tasks illustrated in the figures or described may be performed by the programmed processor executing the instructions stored in the memory.
[069] The control unit 112 may further include a display unit such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flat panel display, a solid state display, a cathode ray tube or other now known or later developed display device for outputting determined information. The display may act as an interface for the user to see the functioning of the processor, or specifically as an interface with the software stored in the memory.
[070] Additionally, the control unit 112 may include an input device configured to allow a user to interact with any of the components of the control unit 112. The input device may be a number pad, a keyboard, or a cursor control device, such as a mouse, or a joystick, touch screen display, remote control or any other device operative to interact with the control unit 112.
[071] The control unit 112 may also include a disk or optical drive unit. The disk drive unit may include a computer-readable medium in which one or more sets of instructions, e.g. software, can be embedded. Further, the instructions may embody one or more of the methods or logic as described. In a particular example, the instructions may reside completely, or at least partially, within the memory or within the processor during execution by the control unit. The memory and the processor also may include computer-readable media as discussed above. The present invention contemplates a computer-readable medium that includes instructions or receives and executes instructions responsive to a propagated signal so that a device connected to a network can communicate data over the network. Further, the instructions may be transmitted or received over the network. The network may include wired networks, wireless networks, Ethernet AVB networks, or combinations thereof. The wireless network may be a cellular telephone network. Further, the network may be a public network, such as the Internet, a private network, such as an intranet, or combinations thereof, and may utilize a variety of networking protocols now available or later developed.
[072] The claimed system/method steps of the present invention as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed system/method steps enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Specifically, the technical problem of thermal runaway in the one or more first battery packs 104 in the vehicle 102 is solved by present invention.
[073] The present invention provides a fail-safe measure for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs 104 in a vehicle 102. As soon as the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 exceeds a pre-defined temperature and starts to increase exponentially, the heat transfer modules 108 operably connected to the one or more first battery packs 104 are activated and the temperature of the one or more first battery packs 104 is reduced to prevent thermal runaway.
[074] The present invention provides effective heat dissipation in closed areas or areas enclosed by body panels. The one or more first battery packs can, therefore, be easily packaged in closed areas below the utility area of the vehicle and in the floorboard of the vehicle.
[075] The present invention is economical and does not require complicated packaging or changes in the existing layout of the vehicle for its implementation.
[076] The present invention can be used in all type of vehicles i.e. internal combustion engine vehicle, electric vehicle as well as hybrid vehicle.
[077] The present invention can be used independently to cool the one or more first battery packs 104 or can be used in combination with one or more conventional cooling systems. The present invention is used to cool one or more first battery packs 104 when the one or more pre-defined conditions are satisfied and conventional methods of cooling are used to cool one or more first battery packs 104 when the one or more pre-defined conditions are not satisfied.
[078] While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A system (100) for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs (104) in a vehicle (102), the system (100) comprising:
one or more temperature sensors (106) for detecting temperature of the one or more first battery packs (104);
one or more heat transfer modules (108), each of the one or more heat transfer module (108) comprising a heat absorbing surface (108a) operably connected to the one or more first battery packs (104) and a heat radiating surface (108b) operably connected to a heat sink (110) such that heat generated in the one or more first battery packs (104) is absorbed by the heat absorbing surface (108a) and transferred to the heat radiating surface (108b) for discharging to the heat sink (110); and
a control unit (112) configured to:
- receive a temperature data from the one or more temperature sensors (106); and
- instruct, on satisfaction of one or more pre-defined conditions, one or more second battery packs (114) to activate the one or more heat transfer modules (108).

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more heat transfer modules (108) are Peltier modules.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more first battery packs (104) comprises at least one of: one or more main battery packs (118) and one or more auxiliary battery packs (120).

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the one or more main battery packs (118) are configured to power one or more traction motors of the vehicle (102).

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein a first pre-defined charge of the one or more second battery packs (114) is reserved to operate one or more first heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more main battery packs (118) and a second pre-defined charge of the one or more second battery packs (114) is reserved to operate one or more second heat transfer modules operably connected to the one or more auxiliary battery packs (120).

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more first battery packs (104) are one or more main battery packs (118) and one or more second battery packs (114) are one or more auxiliary battery packs (120).

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more first battery packs (104) are one or more auxiliary battery packs (120) and the one or more second battery packs (114) are one or more main battery packs (118).

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein a pre-defined charge of the one or more second battery packs (114) is reserved to power the one or more heat transfer modules (108).

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the pre-defined charge is 10-30 percent of the total charge of the one or more second battery packs (114).

10. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more predefined conditions comprises:
- the temperature of the one or more first battery packs (104) being equal to or greater than a pre-defined temperature; and
- difference in temperatures of the one or more first battery packs (104) being greater than a pre-defined value, the difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs (104) being calculated upon detection of the temperature being greater than the pre-defined temperature and the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs (104) being detected pre-defined number of times at pre-defined intervals.

11. The system (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the pre-defined temperature is 60 degree Celsius and the pre-defined value is zero.

12. The system (100) as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the pre-defined number of times is 3 and the pre-defined intervals is between 5 seconds and 10 seconds.

13. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising one or more tubular pipes (116) though which a refrigerant for cooling the one or more first battery packs (104) flows, the one or more tubular pipes (116) being operably connected to the one or more first battery packs (104) and the heat absorbing surface (108a) of each of the heat transfer modules (108).

14. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 or claim 13, wherein the heat sink (110) comprises a plurality of fins (110a) exposed to an atmosphere (126) surrounding the vehicle (102).

15. The system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the one or more heat transfer modules (108) are arranged on at least one of:
- an outer surface of a bottom wall (120a) of the one or more auxiliary battery packs (120), the one or more auxiliary battery packs (120) being arranged in a floorboard (122) of the vehicle (102) ;
- an outer surface of one or more side walls (120b) of the one or more auxiliary battery packs (120), the one or more auxiliary battery packs (120) being arranged in a floorboard (122) of the vehicle (102);
- an outer surface of a bottom wall (120a) of the one or more auxiliary battery packs (120), the one or more auxiliary battery packs (120) being arranged below a utility area (124) of the vehicle (102);
- an outer surface of one or more side walls (120b) of the one or more auxiliary battery packs (120), the one or more auxiliary battery packs (120) being arranged below a utility area (124) of the vehicle (102);
- an outer surface of a bottom wall (118a) of the one or more main battery packs (118), the one or more main battery packs (118) being arranged below a utility area (124) of the vehicle (102);
- an outer surface of one or more side walls (118b) of the one or more main battery packs (118), the one or more main battery packs (118) being arranged below a utility area (124) of the vehicle (102);
- an outer surface of a bottom wall (118a) of the one or more main battery packs (118), the one or more main battery packs (118) being arranged in a floorboard (122) of the vehicle (102); and
- an outer surface of one or more side walls (118b) of the one or more main battery packs (118), the one or more main battery packs (118) being arranged in a floorboard (122) of the vehicle (102).

16. A method (200) for preventing thermal runaway in one or more first battery packs (104) in a vehicle (102), the method comprising:
- detecting (201) temperature of the one or more first battery packs (104) by one or more temperature sensors (106);
- receiving (202) temperature data indicative of the temperature of the one or more first battery packs (104), by a control unit (112), the control unit (112) being in communication with the one or more temperature sensors (106);
- instructing (203) one or more second battery packs (114) to activate one or more heat transfer modules (108), by the control unit (112), upon satisfaction of one or more pre-defined conditions based on the temperature data received by the control unit (112);
- absorbing (204) heat from one or more first battery packs, by a heat absorbing surface (108a) of each of the one or more heat transfer modules (108);
- discharging (205) heat received from the one or more heat absorbing surfaces (108a) to the heat sink (110), by a heat radiating surface (108b) of each of the one or more heat transfer modules (108).

17. The method (200) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the one or more predefined conditions comprises:
- the temperature of the one or more first battery packs (104) being equal to or greater than a pre-defined temperature; and
- difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs (104) being greater than a pre-defined value, the difference in the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs (104) being calculated only upon detection of the temperature being greater than the pre-defined temperature and the temperatures of the one or more first battery packs (104) being detected pre-defined number of times at pre-defined intervals.