DESC:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENT RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

Title of invention:
A SYSTEM AND METHOD TO CLEAN CONDITIONING CHANNELS OF AN ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM

Applicant:
EXPONENT ENERGY PRIVATE LIMITED
An Indian Entity
having address as:
No.76/2, Site No.16, Khatha No.69, Singasandra Village, Bengaluru (Bangalore) Urban, BENGALURU, KARNATAKA 560068

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND PRIORITY
The present application claims priority from the Indian provisional patent application, having application number 202241051270, filed on 08th January 2023, incorporated herein by a reference.
FIELD OF INVENTION
The present disclosure relates to the field of cleaning of an energy storage system for electric vehicles (EVs). More specifically, the present application discloses a system and method to clean conditioning fluid channels of the energy storage system using a solvent system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art, which may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure that are described or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that the subject matter discussed in this background section are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.
In electric vehicles (EVs), an energy storage system is used to power the electric motors of the electric vehicle. Different types of batteries are available in the market. Batteries include Lithium-Ion batteries, Solid state batteries; Nickel-Metal Hydride. Lead-Acid Batteries, and Ultracapacitors. However, Lithium-ion batteries are the most efficient and preferred. The energy storage system may comprise at least one cell, bus bars, and one or more conditioning channels. The energy storage system may be charge conditioned and temperature conditioned by circulating charge and fluid respectively from a conditioning station. The energy storage system is conditioned by passing conditioning fluid from the conditioning station to conditioning channels associated with the energy storage system.
The fluid might create a material layer inside the conditioning fluid channel wherever the fluid comes in contact with the conditioning channel. This might lead to:
1. Compromised fluid flow rate thus leading to inadequate and unbalanced conditioning of the energy storage system. This may lead to premature degradation of cells/ thermal runaway.
2. Corrosion- This may lead to compromised structure of the conditioning fluid channel resulting in fluid leakage. The leak may further result in short circuits and loss of cells.
Therefore, there exists long-standing need for a system and a method to clean conditioning fluid channels of the energy storage system using a solvent system in order to prevent layering and/or remove the layering deposited inside the fluid channels of the energy storage system.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present disclosure overcomes one or more shortcomings of the prior art and provides additional advantages discussed throughout the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. This summary is not intended to identify the essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended for use in determining or limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. This summary is provided to introduce concepts related to a system and a method to clean conditioning fluid channels of the energy storage system, in electric vehicles (EVs), using a solvent system. More particularly, the system is designed to pass a fluid through the energy storage system to remove a material layer deposited on inner walls of the conditioning fluid channels. The fluid may be a cleaning agent or a chemical solvent to dissolve said material layer and remove the same from the conditioning fluid channels of the energy storage system.
The present disclosure has been made in order to solve the problems, and it is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system for cleaning conditioning channels in an energy storage system, resulting in efficient cleaning of conditioning channels leading to improved efficiency and longevity. In one implementation of the present disclosure, a system to clean the conditioning channels of the energy storage system is disclosed. The system may include a solvent tank, a cleaning system (CS) connector, a primary pump, a suction pump, a plurality of hoses, one or more valves, and a controller. The solvent tank may be used to store chemical solvent (cleaning agent). Further, the CS connector may be used to connecting the system to the energy storage system. Further, the primary pump may be configured to pump solvent from the solvent tank to the conditioning channels of the energy storage system. Further, the suction pump may be configured to remove solvent from the energy storage system to a waste tank. Further, the plurality of hoses may be used to connect different components of the system with each other. Further, one or more valves may be designed for controlling flow of solvent to the waste tank. Further, the controller may be configured to clean the conditioning channels of the energy storage system by passing the solvent from the solvent tank to the energy storage system, returning back to the waste tank via the plurality of hoses and the CS connector. Further, the controller may be configured to clean the conditioning channels of the energy storage system by controlling one of the primary pump, the suction pump, the one or more valves or a combination thereof.
Further, the controller may be configured to receive input parameters from the energy storage system via the CS connector, including fluid flow rate, pressure, volume, temperature, channel area, and state of charge (SOC). Based on these input parameters, the controller may dynamically adjust the operations of the primary pump, suction pump, and one or more valves. Additionally, the system may include an air inlet with a controllable valve to introduce air into the conditioning channels, for enhancing cleaning efficiency.
In one embodiment, the controller may dynamically control the primary pump's operations including start, stop, speed, inducing pulsating effects for efficient material removal. Further, the suction pump’s operations, including start, stop, and power selection, may also be controlled by the controller. Furthermore, one or more valves may be selectively opened or closed, based on input parameters, by the controller. The CS connector, with mate detection, may facilitate seamless connection to the energy storage system. Moreover, the system may include a power source configured to provide power to run the primary pump and the suction pump, or to actuate the one or more valves.
In another implementation of the present disclosure, a method to clean conditioning channels of the energy storage system is disclosed. The method may involve a step for connecting the primary pump to the solvent tank via one or more hoses. Further, the method may comprise a step of connecting the primary pump to a cleaning system (CS) connector. The CS connector may comprise a first port and a second port. The primary pump may be connected to the first port of the CS connector. Further the method may comprise a step for connecting a suction pump to a waste tank. Further the method may comprise a step for connecting the suction pump to the second port of the CS connector through a second valve. Further in the next step, the CS connector may be connected to the energy storage system. Further the method may comprise a step for receiving one or more input parameters from the energy storage system through the CS connector. Further, the method may comprise a step of cleaning the conditioning channels of the energy storage system using a controller by circulating solvent from the tank through the conditioning channels and back to the waste tank via the plurality of hoses and the CS connector. Notably, the controller may regulate the system's flow rate, possibly based on predefined values associated with the primary pump's speed and input parameters from the energy storage system.
In yet another embodiment, a method to clean conditioning channels of the energy storage system may involve connecting the primary pump to the solvent tank and the CS connector. Further, the CS connector linked to the energy storage system and the primary pump may be connected to a first port of the CS connector. Further, a waste tank may be connected to a second port of the CS connector. Furthermore, the controller based on input parameters received from the energy storage system may direct the primary pump to circulate solvent from the tank through the conditioning channels, returning to the waste tank via the plurality of hoses and the CS connector. Additionally, the method may include connecting an air inlet to the CS connector's first port using a third valve.
Overall, the system and the method provide a comprehensive and adaptable solution for efficient maintenance of the conditioning channels of the energy storage system.
The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer like features and components.
Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram describing a system (100) to clean conditioning channels of an energy storage system (101), in accordance with an embodiment of a present subject matter.
Figure 2 illustrates a flowchart describing a method (200) to clean conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) using a suction pump (107) attached to a waste tank (106), in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
Figure 3 illustrates a flowchart describing a method (300) to clean conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) without using the suction pump (107) attached to the waste tank (106), in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” or “in an embodiment” in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Although any methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present disclosure, the exemplary methods are described. The disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms.
In the various embodiments disclosed herein, an ‘energy storage system’ may be interchangeably read and/or interpreted as an ‘energy storage apparatus’ or a ‘battery module’, a ‘battery pack’, a ‘battery assembly’ or the like. Further, ‘conditioning fluid channels’ may be interchangeably read and/or interpreted as ‘conditioning channels’ or ‘fluid channels’ or the like. A ‘power source’ may further be interchangeably read and/or interpreted as a ‘dedicated power source’ or a ‘designated source’ or the like.
In electric vehicles (EVs), an energy storage system is crucial for powering electric motors, often faces challenges like material layering within conditioning channels, especially when Lithium-Ion batteries are used. This layering can compromise fluid flow rates and lead to inadequate conditioning, causing premature cell degradation or even thermal runaway. Additionally, corrosion resulting from layering can compromise the structural integrity of the conditioning fluid channels, potentially causing leakage and electrical malfunctions.
In one non-limiting embodiment, a disclosed system for cleaning fluid channels in the energy storage system offers a highly versatile and efficient solution. The system disclosed addresses the issue of material buildup within the conditioning channels of the energy storage system, which can lead to compromised fluid flow rate, corrosion, and potential premature degradation of the system. Further, the disclosed system utilizes a solvent-based cleaning mechanism to effectively remove any material deposits within the conditioning channels. This system ensures effective cleaning, preventing material layering, and maintaining optimal performance and safety of the energy storage system in the electric vehicles.
Now referring to Figure 1, a block diagram describing a system (100) to clean conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101), is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of a present subject matter. The system (100) may include a cleaning system (CS) connector (103), a primary pump (104), a solvent tank (105), a waste tank (106), a suction pump (107), an air inlet (108), one or more valves (109, 110, 111), a plurality of hoses and a controller (not illustrated).
In one embodiment, the solvent tank (105) may be configured for storing the solvent. The solvent may be a cleaning agent or a chemical solvent to dissolve material layer and to remove the same from the conditioning fluid channels of the energy storage system. The solvent tank (105) may be one or more large container(s) made of durable plastic or stainless steel and may be capable of holding gallons of chemical solvent. Further, the solvent tank (105) may provide a sufficient volume of chemical solvent to ensure cleaning of the conditioning fluid channels of the energy storage system. Further, the waste tank (106) may be configured for storing waste chemical solvent drained from the conditioning fluid channels of the energy storage system. The waste chemical solvent corresponds to the chemical solvent coming from the solvent tank (105), mixed with the material deposits/scales dissolved from the fluid conditioning channels of energy storage system. It may provide a sufficient volume of container to ensure draining out the waste chemical solvent from the fluid conditioning channels of the energy storage system.
In addition, the primary pump (104) may be configured for circulating the chemical solvent into multiple components of the system (100). In an embodiment, the primary pump (104) may be a high-powered electric pump, similar to those used in industrial applications. It may have a motor and impeller mechanism that generates sufficient pressure to circulate the chemical solvent throughout the system (100). The primary pump (104) is responsible for generating the necessary pressure to circulate the chemical solvent throughout the system (100). The primary pump (104) is designed with one or more different and/or pulsating speeds which is used to create a pulsating effect in the solvent fluid by the primary pump (104). In an exemplary embodiment, the primary pump (104) is configured to extract the chemical solvent out of the solvent tank (105) and pass the solvent fluid into various components of the system (100).
In another embodiment, the suction pump (107) may be a small electric or pneumatic pump designed to create a vacuum within the system (100). An example may be a diaphragm pump that uses the expansion and contraction of a flexible diaphragm to create suction, aiding in the removal of air or excess fluid. The suction pump (107) may create a vacuum or negative pressure within the system (100). It may help in drawing out any trapped air or excess fluid, ensuring proper solvent fluid circulation and may prevent the formation of air pockets. In an exemplary embodiment, the suction pump (107) is configured to remove the solvent fluid (waste chemical solvent) from the energy storage system (101) (specifically from the fluid conditioning channels of the energy storage system) and pass the waste fluid towards the waste tank (106).
Additionally, the one or more valves (109, 110, 111) may be configured for controlling the fluid/air flow inside the system (100). Further, the one or more valves may be a cylindrical device with electrical coils and a movable plunger. It may be a 12V DC valve that controls the flow of fluid to a specific channel or the component. The valve may be energized, and it may open, allowing the fluid to pass through. When de-energized, it may close, blocking the flow of solvent fluid or air. In an embodiment, the one or more valves (109, 110, 111) comprise one of electric actuated solenoid valves, mechanical actuated valves, pneumatic valves, or a combination thereof.
Further, the plurality of hoses may be flexible tubes serving as conduits for the chemical solvent fluid. The fluid hoses may connect various components of the system (100), enabling the solvent fluid to flow smoothly between them. In an embodiment of the present disclosure the plurality of fluid hoses comprises one of a linear hose, a bend hose, an L-shape hose, a plurality of T-junctions or a combination thereof.
Further, the air inlet (108) is a small opening with a controllable valve or vent. For example, it may be a manual valve or an electronically controlled vent that allows controlled entry of air into the system (100) during the cleaning process, preventing any potential vacuum or airlock situations. The air inlet (108) may provide a controlled entry point for air into the system (100). It may allow for the displacement of solvent fluid during the cleaning process, ensuring effective fluid circulation and preventing any potential blockages. In an exemplary embodiment, the air inlet (108) is configured to push air into the fluid conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) leading to pushing the solvent fluid from the energy storage system (101) to the waste tank (106).
Further, the CS connector (103) (or the solvent system (SS) connector) is a connector for connecting the disclosed system (100) to the energy storage system (101). In an exemplary embodiment, the CS connector (103) may be connected to a corresponding charging socket of the energy storage system (101). The CS connector (103) may comprise one or more fluid connection ports, one or more data signal ports and a mate detection sensor. Further the one or more fluid connection ports of the CS connector (107) comprises a first port and second port. The first port is used to transmit the solvent fluid from the solvent tank (105) to the ESS (101) and the second port is used to pull back the solvent fluid (waste solvent) from the ESS (101) to the waste tank (106) of the system (100). In an embodiment, the first port is connected to the solvent tank (105) through the plurality of hoses via the primary pump (104). In another embodiment, the first port of the CS connector (103) is connected to the air inlet (108) through the plurality of hoses via the third valve (111). Further, the second port is connected to the waste tank (106) through the plurality of hoses via one of the first valve (109), the second valve (110) along with the suction pump (107) or a combination thereof. Further, the one or more data signal ports in the CS connector (103) is used to exchange data signals between the disclosed system (100) and the coupled energy storage system (101). The data signals may be used to provide status information and to give control commands to corresponding controllers of each other. Further, the mate detection sensor is configured to detect mating of the CS connector (103) with a corresponding connector associated with the energy storage system (101). In an exemplary embodiment, the energy storage system (101) may comprise an inlet manifold and an outlet manifold. The inlet manifold is used to insert fluid into the fluid conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) and the outlet manifold is used to exit the fluid from the fluid conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101). In a related embodiment, the first port of the CS connector (103) is configured to connect with the inlet manifold of the energy storage system (101) and the second port of the CS connector (103) is configured to connect with the outlet manifold of the energy storage system (101) and vice versa. Moreover, the CS connector (103) enhances the system's functionality, including fluid connection ports and the mate detection sensor that detects the mating of the CS connector (103) with the corresponding connector associated with the energy storage system (101), ensuring a secure and efficient connection. Further, the first and second ports of the CS connector (103) may be intricately connected to the solvent tank (105), waste tank (106), and air inlet (108) through the plurality of hoses and one or more valves, facilitating a synchronized and controlled cleaning process within the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101).
In an embodiment, the controller may comprise a standard microprocessor, microcontroller, central processing unit (CPU), programmable logic controller (PLC), distributed or cloud processing unit, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions and/or other processing logic that accommodates the requirements of the present invention. In a related embodiment, the controller may be coupled with all components of the system (100) such as, but not limited to, the CS connector (103), the primary pump (104), the solvent tank (105), the waste tank (106), the suction pump (107), the air inlet (108), one or more valves (109, 110, 111), the plurality of hoses. The controller may be configured to exchange data/information and to control all the components it is coupled with. In case of the connection with the energy storage system (101), the controller may be configured to exchange data/information or control signals with a corresponding controller of the energy storage system (101). The controller of energy storage system and the controller of system (100) are configured to communicate with each other via Controller Area Network (CAN) communication line passes through the CS connector (103). Further, the controller may be configured to receive one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101) via the CS connector (103), including fluid flow rate, pressure, volume, temperature, channel area, and state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage system (101). The one or more input parameters may be indicating scales deposited inside the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101). Based on these input parameters, the controller may be configured to clean the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) by passing the solvent from the solvent tank (105) to the energy storage system (101) and returning it to the waste tank (106) via a plurality of hoses and the CS connector (103). Further, based on these input parameters, the controller may dynamically adjust the operations of one of the primary pump (104), suction pump (107), one or more valves (109, 110, 111), or a combination thereof.
Furthermore, the controller may initiate the operation, facilitating detection of CS connector (103) mating and subsequent valve adjustments for optimal cleaning. Further, the controller may initiate solvent pumping through the primary pump (104) and dynamically control the solvent flow rate, identifying scaling based on preset values received from one or more input parameters of the energy storage system (101). Moreover, if scaling is detected, the controller may prompt increased solvent flow to remove it. Once the desired flow rate is achieved, the primary pump (104) may stop, and the suction pump (107) may remove any remaining solvent, directing it to the waste tank (106). The system may involve a systematic opening and closing of one or more valves (109, 110), ensuring effective solvent circulation and removal.
In another embodiment, the controller may be configured to clean the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) by passing the solvent from the solvent tank (105) to the energy storage system (101) returning back to the waste tank (106) via the plurality of hoses and the CS connector (103). Further, the controller may be configured to control the operations of one of the primary pump (104), the suction pump (107), the one or more valves (109, 110) or a combination thereof, based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101). When controlling the primary pump (104), the controller may initiate or halt its operation, adjust pulsating speeds, or implement a combination of these actions. Operating the primary pump (104) at different and/or pulsating speeds creates a pulsating effect in the solvent passing through the plurality of hoses, including the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101). This pulsating effect is strategically employed to create a scraping mechanism within the conditioning channels, effectively removing deposited materials. Similarly, for the suction pump, the controller may start or stop its function, select suction power, or execute a combination of these actions, all contingent on input parameters from the energy storage system. Furthermore, the controller may selectively open or close the one or more valves (109, 110) based on the received input parameters, providing a comprehensive and adaptable approach to cleaning the conditioning channels of the energy storage system.
In an exemplary embodiment, the disclosed system (100) presents a comprehensive configuration for cleaning conditioning channels of an energy storage system (101). Further, the system (100) incorporates a first valve (109) within the one or more valves, strategically designed to control the direct flow of solvent from the energy storage system (101) to the waste tank (106). Complementing this, a second valve (110) may be integrated into the system (100) to regulate the flow of solvent from the energy storage system (101) to the waste tank (106) via the suction pump (107).
Additionally, the system (100) may include the air inlet (108) dedicated to introducing air into the conditioning channels, enhancing the overall cleaning process. Further, the third valve (111) may be employed to manage the air flow between the air inlet (108) and the energy storage system (101). The controller, a pivotal component of the system, may be adept at controlling the operations of the third valve (111), determining whether to selectively open or close it based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
In yet another embodiment, the system (100) may be equipped with a dedicated power source, ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply to operate one of the primary pump (104), the suction pump (107), the air inlet (108), the one or more valves (109, 110, 111).
In alternative embodiment, the system (100) may include a water tank connected to the CS connector (103), wherein the primary pump (104) may be configured to supply water to the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101). Further, the water tank may be used in addition to the solvent tank (105) and the waste tank (106) to remove any residue of the solvent inside the fluid channels. Thus, system (100) may integrate the water tank for post-cleaning rinsing, and a dedicated power source may drive both the primary pump (104) and the suction pump (107). This innovative system presents a comprehensive and automated solution for the meticulous cleaning of the energy storage system (101) conditioning channels, promoting efficiency and longevity.
In another non-limiting embodiment, one or more methods (200, 300) for cleaning conditioning channels in the energy storage system (101) is disclosed. The method provides efficient and systematic sequence of steps for cleaning conditioning channels in the energy storage system (101). The disclosed methods present systematic and controlled solutions for maintaining the optimal functionality of energy storage systems.
Now, referring to Figure 2, a flowchart describing a method (200) to clean conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) using the suction pump (107) attached to the waste tank (106), is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The method may include the following steps:
At Step 201, the primary pump (104) is connected to the solvent tank (105) via one or more hoses. The solvent tank (105) may serve as a storage for the cleaning solvent.
At Step 202, establishing a connection between the primary pump (104) and the CS connector (103). Further, the CS connector (103) may be equipped with the first port and the second port, wherein the primary pump (104) may be connected to the first port of the CS connector (103).
At Step 203, connecting the suction pump (107) to the waste tank (106) through one or more hoses,
At Step 204, the suction pump (107) may be connected to the second port of the CS connector (103) via a second valve (110).
At Step 205, establishing a connection between the CS connector (103) and the energy storage system (101).
At Step 206, one or more input parameters may be received from the energy storage system (101) via the CS connector (103). These input parameters serve as indicators for the cleaning process.
At Step 207, the cleaning of the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) may be initiated using a controller. This involves directing the solvent from the solvent tank (105) to the energy storage system (101) and routing it back to the waste tank (106) through the plurality of hoses and the CS connector (103), based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
In one embodiment, an air inlet (108) may be connected to the first port of the CS connector (103) using a third valve (111). Additionally, the method (200) may involve cleaning the conditioning channels by possibly using the suction pump (107) to extract solvent from the channels and redirecting it to the waste tank (106). Further, the controller may control the operations of various components including the primary pump (104), suction pump (107), first valve (109), second valve (110), and third valve (111) based on one or more input parameters received from the energy storage system (101). The one or more input parameters may include fluid flow rate, pressure, volume, temperature, area of conditioning channels, and state of charge (SOC), which may indicate scales deposit. For instance, controlling the primary pump may involve starting, stopping, or operating it at different speeds, possibly creating a pulsating effect to remove deposits. Similarly, controlling the suction pump may include actions like starting, stopping, or adjusting suction power, while controlling the valves may encompass selectively opening or closing them based on the input parameters.
Now, referring to Figure 3, a flowchart describing a method (300) to clean conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) without using the suction pump (107) attached to the waste tank (106), is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The method may include the following steps:
At Step 301, the primary pump (104) is connected to the solvent tank (105) via one or more hoses. The solvent tank (105) may serve as a storage for the cleaning solvent.
At Step 302, a connection between the primary pump (104) and the CS connector (103) is established. Further, the CS connector (103) may be equipped with the first port and the second port, wherein the primary pump (104) may be connected to the first port of the CS connector (103).
At Step 303, the waste tank (106) may be connected to the second port of the CS connector (103) via a first valve (109).
At Step 304, a connection between the CS connector (103) and the energy storage system (101) is established.
At Step 305, one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101) are received via the CS connector (103). These input parameters serve as indicators for the cleaning process.
At Step 306, the cleaning of the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) is initiated using the controller. This involves directing the solvent from the solvent tank (105) to the energy storage system (101) and routing it back to the waste tank (106) through one or more hoses and the CS connector (103), based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
Further, in another embodiment, the method (300) may involve connecting the air inlet (108) to the first port of the CS connector (103) via a third valve (111). The air inlet (108) may be dedicated to introducing air into the conditioning channels, enhancing the overall cleaning process. Further, the third valve (111) may be employed to manage the air flow between the air inlet (108) and the energy storage system (101). The controller, a pivotal component of the system, may be adept at controlling the operations of the third valve (111), determining whether to selectively open or close it based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
In an exemplary embodiment, the method may include sequence of steps wherein the CS connector (103) of the system may be connected to a connector associated with the energy storage system (101). Further, the controller may be configured to detect the mating of both CS connector (103) and the energy storage system connector. Moreover, the CS controller (103) may be configured to send a signal to the second valve (110) and the third valve (111) to close. And the controller may be configured to send a signal to the first valve (109) to open. Further, the controller may be configured to send a signal to the primary pump (104) to actuate and push solvent from the solvent tank (105) to the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) through the one or more hoses and the CS connector (103).
Furthermore, the solvent may scrub-off any scales or deposits, i.e., solvent may dissolve scales and deposits from the inner wall of the conditioning channel. The solvent with all the deposits, then exits the conditioning channel and move towards the CS connector (103). Further, the solvent with all the deposits, flow from the CS connector (103) to the waste tank (106) via the first valve (109).
Further, the controller may be configured to control the flow rate of the system (100). The system (100) may include a predefined stored values of preset flow rate for the primary pump speed based on the input parameters received from the energy storage system (101). If the current flow rate is less than the preset flow rate, the system may be configured to identify that the scaling is still present inside the condition fluid channels, and then the primary pump may be configured to push more solvent to remove the scaling. Once the flow rate matches the preset flow rate, the controller may be configured to send a signal to the primary pump to “stop” and the first solenoid valve to “close”. The controller may be configured to send a signal to the second solenoid valve and the third solenoid valve to “open”. Further, the controller may be configured to switch on the suction pump to remove any remaining solvent out of the conditioning fluid channel. The solvent then returns to the waste tank via the CS connector to the second solenoid valve and the suction pump.
In another embodiment, the solvent may enter the energy storage system through the outlet manifold of the energy storage system and exit through the inlet manifold of the energy storage system. In another embodiment, the solvent may enter the energy storage system through the inlet manifold of the energy storage system and exit through the outlet manifold of the energy storage system.
The system's ability to detect material buildup, control solvent flow, and utilize pulsating or air purging mechanisms ensures effective cleaning of the conditioning channels, thereby preventing potential issues and prolonging the lifespan of the energy storage system.
Overall, the embodiment of the system for cleaning the conditioning channels of the energy storage system is designed with a focus on enhancing the cleaning efficiency of the conditioning channels, which can have a significant impact on the performance of cells and thermal runaway.
The embodiments, examples and alternatives of the preceding paragraphs, the description, including any of their various aspects or respective individual features, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless such features are incompatible.
Although implementations of the system and method to clean conditioning channels of the energy storage system using the solvent system have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methods, it is to be understood that the appended claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed as examples of implementations of the system and the method to clean conditioning channels of the energy storage system using the solvent system.
The foregoing description shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in any limiting sense. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that certain modifications could come within the scope of this disclosure. The embodiments, examples and alternatives of the preceding paragraphs or the description and drawings, including any of their various aspects or respective individual features, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless such features are incompatible.

,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. A system (100) to clean conditioning channels of an energy storage system (101), characterized in that, the system (100) comprises:
a solvent tank (105) for storing solvent;
a cleaning system (CS) connector (103) for connecting the system (100) to the energy storage system (101);
a primary pump (104) configured to pump solvent from the solvent tank (105) to the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101);
a suction pump (107) configured to remove solvent from the energy storage system (101) to a waste tank (106);
a plurality of hoses;
one or more valves (109, 110) for controlling flow of solvent to the waste tank (106); and
a controller, wherein the controller is configured to clean the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) by passing the solvent from the solvent tank (105) to the energy storage system (101) returning back to the waste tank (106) via the plurality of hoses and the CS connector (103), by controlling one of the primary pump (104), the suction pump (107), the one or more valves (109, 110) or a combination thereof.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101) via the CS connector (103), wherein the one or more input parameters indicating scales deposit inside the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101), wherein the one or more input parameters comprise fluid flow rate, fluid pressure, fluid volume, temperature of conditioning channels, conditioning channels area, and state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage system (101).
3. The system (100) as claimed in claims 1 and 2, wherein the controller is configured to control the operations of one of the primary pump (104), the suction pump (107), the one or more valves (109, 110) or a combination thereof, based on one or more input parameters received from the energy storage system (101).
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein controlling the operations of the primary pump (104), by the controller, is one of starting the primary pump (104), stopping the primary pump (104), to operate the primary pump (104) at different and/or pulsating speeds in order to create a pulsating effect in the solvent passes through the plurality of hoses including the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101), and a combination thereof, wherein pulsating effect in the solvent causes scraping off the material deposited inside the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101).
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein controlling the operations of the suction pump (107), by the controller, is one of starting the suction pump (107), stopping the suction pump (107), selecting suction power of the suction pump (107), or a combination thereof, based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein controlling the operations of one or more valves (109, 110), by the controller, is selectively opening or closing the one or more valves (109, 110), based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more valves (109, 110) comprise one of electric actuated solenoid valves, mechanical actuated valves, pneumatic valves, or a combination thereof.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more valves (109, 110) comprises a first valve (109) configured to control direct flow of solvent from the energy storage system (101) to the waste tank (106), wherein the one or more valves (109, 110) comprises a second valve (110) configured to control flow of solvent from the energy storage system (101) to the waste tank (106) via the suction pump (107).
9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises an air inlet (108) configured to push air into the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101).
10. The system (100) as claimed in claims 1 and 9, wherein the system (100) comprises a third valve (111) configured to control flow of air between the air inlet (108) and the energy storage system (101).
11. The system (100) as claimed in claims 1, 2 and 10, wherein the controller is configured to control the operations of third valve (111), wherein controlling the operations of the third valve (111) correspond to selectively opening or closing the third valves (111), based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
12. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the CS connector (103) comprises one or more fluid connection ports and a mate detection sensor, wherein the mate detection sensor is configured to detect mating of the CS connector (103) with a corresponding connector associated with the energy storage system (101).
13. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the CS connector (103) comprises a first port and a second port, wherein the first port is connected to the solvent tank (105) through the plurality of hoses via the primary pump (104), wherein the first port of the CS connector (103) is connected to the air inlet (108) through the plurality of hoses via the third valve (111), wherein the second port is connected to the waste tank (106) through the plurality of hoses via one of the first valve (109), the second valve (110) along with the suction pump (107) or a combination thereof.
14. The system (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the first port of the CS connector (103) is configured to connect with an inlet manifold of the energy storage system (101) and the second port of the CS connector (103) is configured to connect with an outlet manifold of the energy storage system (101) and vice versa.
15. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of hoses comprises one of a linear hose, a bend hose, an L-shape hose, a T-junction (105), or a combination thereof.
16. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the solvent corresponds to a chemical solvent used for dissolving and removing said scales from the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101).
17. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein system (100) comprises a water tank connected to the CS connector (103), wherein the primary pump (104) is configured to supply water to the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101).
18. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a power source configured to provide power to run the primary pump (104) and the suction pump (107).
19. A method (200) to clean conditioning channels of an energy storage system (101), characterized in that, the method (200) comprises:
connecting (201) a primary pump (104) to a solvent tank (105) via one or more hoses, wherein solvent tank (105) stores solvent;
connecting (202) the primary pump (104) to a cleaning system (CS) connector (103), wherein the CS connector (103) comprises a first port and a second port, wherein the primary pump (104) is connected to the first port of the CS connector (103);
connecting (203) a suction pump (107) to a waste tank (106) via one or more hoses;
connecting (204) the suction pump (107) to the second port of the CS connector (103) via a second valve (110);
connecting (205) the CS connector (103) to the energy storage system (101);
receiving (206) one or more input parameters, via the CS connector (103), from the energy storage system (101);
cleaning (207) the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) using a controller by passing the solvent from the solvent tank (105) to the energy storage system (101) returning back to the waste tank (106) via the one or more hoses and the CS connector (103), based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
20. The method (200) as claimed in claim 19, wherein the method (200) comprises connecting an air inlet (108) to the first port of the CS connector (103) via a third valve (111).
21. The method (200) as claimed in claim 19, wherein the method (200) comprises cleaning the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) by removing the solvent from the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) to the waste tank (106).
22. The method (200) as claimed in claim 19, wherein the one or more input parameters indicating scales deposited inside the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101), wherein the one or more input parameters comprise fluid flow rate, fluid pressure, fluid volume, temperature of conditioning channels, conditioning channels area, and state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage system (101).
23. The method (200) as claimed in claim 19, wherein cleaning the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) using the controller is performed by controlling the operations of one of the primary pump (104), the suction pump (107), a first valve (109), the second valve (110), the third valve (111) or a combination thereof, based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
24. The method (200) as claimed in claim 23, wherein controlling the operations of the primary pump (104), by the controller, is one of starting the primary pump (104), stopping the primary pump (104), to operate the primary pump (104) at different and/or pulsating speeds in order to create a pulsating effect in the solvent passes through the one or more hoses including the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101), and a combination thereof, wherein pulsating effect in the solvent causes scraping off the material deposited inside the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101).
25. The method (200) as claimed in claim 23, wherein controlling the operations of the suction pump (107), by the controller, is one of starting the suction pump (107), stopping the suction pump (107), selecting suction power of the suction pump (107) or a combination thereof, based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
26. The method (200) as claimed in claim 23, wherein controlling the operations of the first valve (109), the second valve (110), the third valve (111), by the controller, is selectively opening or closing the valves, based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
27. A method (300) to clean conditioning channels of an energy storage system (101), characterized in that, the method (300) comprises:
connecting (301) a primary pump (104) to a solvent tank (105) via one or more hoses, wherein solvent tank (105) stores solvent;
connecting (302) the primary pump (104) to a cleaning system (CS) connector (103), wherein the CS connector (103) comprises a first port and a second port, wherein the primary pump (104) is connected to the first port of the CS connector (103);
connecting (303) a waste tank (106) to the second port of the CS connector (103) via a first valve (109);
connecting (304) the CS connector (103) to the energy storage system (101);
receiving (305) one or more input parameters, via the CS connector (103), from the energy storage system (101);
cleaning (306) the conditioning channels of the energy storage system (101) using a controller by passing the solvent from the solvent tank (105) to the energy storage system (101) returning back to the waste tank (106) via the one or more hoses and the CS connector (103), based on one or more input parameters from the energy storage system (101).
28. The method (300) as claimed in claim 27, wherein the method (300) comprises connecting an air inlet (108) to the first port of the CS connector (103) via a third valve (111).
Dated this 08th day of January 2023

Priyank Gupta
Agent for the Applicant
IN/PA-1454