The following specification particularly describes the invention. Novel Spill Proof Cover for Lead Acid Battery
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a flooded lead acid battery comprising a novel cover.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
A lead acid battery is particularly useful in SLI (starting, lighting and ignition) applications. Conventional lead acid storage batteries include a container and a cover for closing an open top end of the cover. The container is a rectangular casing having one or more than one cells containing electrolyte therein. The cover is often heat sealed to the open top of the cover.
Lead acid batteries can be of many types. A common type of lead acid battery is the flooded battery. In this battery the acid is not fixed in gel or absorptive glass mat. During charging some of the water in the electrolyte decomposes into hydrogen and oxygen. Pressure builds up in the battery housing and the battery could, under certain circumstances, explode in case the gases are not vented. All flooded lead acid batteries therefore have a vent hole in the cover for permitting escape of gases.
For proper operation of the flooded lead acid battery it is necessary to maintain the electrolyte concentration vdthin predetermined limits. It therefore becomes necessary to periodically add water to the electrolyte. Flooded lead acid batteries therefore have one or more holes in the cover through which can be added. These holes are either plugged or otherwise closed when the filling operation is completed.
On account of the vent hole, electrolyte tends to spill out of the battery in case the battery is tilted either during transportation or operation. This loss of acid can cause external damage and needs to be avoided.
There is thus need for flooded lead acid batteries wherein the electrolyte does not spill out either during transportation or operation.
The prior art describes many spill proof and leak proof batteries. US Patent numbers 4,348,466, 5,380,604, 5,683,830 and 6,890,681 teach different embodiments of lead

acid batteries. These embodiments, however, incorporate complex configurations of battery covers that are relatively expensive and difficult to manufacture. Further the prior art fails to ensure spill proof and leak proof batteries, particularly in situations when the battery is tilted.
Clearly there is need for spill proof and leak proof flooded lead acid batteries wherein the electrolyte does not leak or spill when the battery is tilted. There is also need for a battery wherein the electrolyte from different cells does not intermix.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention in one aspect relates to a flooded lead acid battery comprising a novel cover. In another aspect the invention relates to a lead acid battery wherein the electrolyte does not leak or spill when the battery is tihed. In yet another aspect the invention relates to a flooded lead acid battery wherein the electrolyte from different cells does not intermix when the battery is tilted.
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of embodiments in a simplified form that are fiirther described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
The present invention in one embodiment relates to a flooded lead acid battery comprising a container with a plurality of cells with each cell comprising electrolyte. The battery further comprises a main cover comprising a partition wherein the partition divides the main cover into two parts.
Each part of the main cover comprises:
1) a plurality of drainage holes and filling holes. There is one drainage hole and one filling hole for each cell of the battery;
2) a vent hole;
3) a plurality of baffles. The baffles can be of many types but will include baffles of the first, fourth and fifth types
Baffles of the first type are substantially parallel to the partition and are joined to one edge of the main cover. These baffles extend towards the parallel edge of the main cover without touching the parallel edge.
Baffles of the fourth type originate from the baffles of the first type and extend either towards the partition or in a direction away from the partition without actually touching the partition or any other baffle toward which the baffles of the fourth type extend.
Baffles of the fifth type originate fi"om the either the partition or baffles of the first type and extend away from the partition. The baffles of the fifth type do not touch any other baffle or an edge towards which they extend.
The battery further comprises a sub cover comprising a partition wherein the partition divides the sub cover into two parts.
Each part of the sub cover comprises:
1) a plurality of filling holes with the filling holes of the sub cover substantially overlying the filling holes of the main cover;
2) a vent hole of the sub cover substantially overlying the vent hole of the main cover;
3) a plurality of baffles with the baffles of the sub cover substantially corresponding to the baffles of the main cover. When the sub cover is placed on the top of the main cover the partition and baffles of the main cover align with the partition and baffles of the sub cover and each filling hole of the sub cover substantially overlies a filling hole of the main cover and the vent holes of the sub cover overly the vent holes of the main cover.
The main cover is so disposed that one part of the main cover slopes downward in one direction and the other part of the main cover slopes downward in the opposite direction. The drainage holes are disposed towards the end of the slope. The sub cover aligns with the corresponding part of the main cover.
The volume enclosed by the main cover and the sub cover is such that when the battery is placed on any side the level of the electrolyte in the main cover does not
reach the end of the baffles of the first type, fourth type or the fifth type, so as to spill over the concerned baffle and flow towards the filling holes or the vent hole.
The invention is general in nature and the battery of this invention can comprise any plurality of cells, particularly four, six or eight cells.
The battery of this invention can fiirther comprise baffles that are disposed in the proximity of the drainage holes or the vent holes. It would be noted that while the detailed description below includes baffles of the second, third and sixth type in relation to the main cover (and corresponding baffles of the sub cover) these baffles, as would be obvious to a person skilled in the art, are optional. It would be further noted that the two parts of the main cover or sub cover need not necessarily be symmetrical, as would be obvious to a person skilled in the art, even though the detailed description only discloses symmetrical embodiments. It is however necessary that the main cover and the corresponding part of the sub cover should align.
DRAWINGS
Fig. lA provides an illustration of the six cell battery 1 in accordance with embodiment 1 of the present invention.
Fig. IB and IC provide an illustration of the main cover 20 and sub cover 30 in accordance with embodiment 1 of the present invention.
Fig. ID and IE provide an illustration of the battery 1 tilted on sides in accordance with one of the embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. IF provides an illustration of an alternate embodiment of the baffles of the second type of the present invention.
Fig. 2A provides an illustration of the four cell battery 1 in accordance with embodiment 2 of the present invention.
Fig. 2B and 2C provide an illustration of the main cover 20 and sub cover 30 in accordance with embodiment 2 of the present invention.
Fig. 2D and 2E provide an illustration of the battery 1 tilted on sides in accordance with one of the embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 3A provides an illustration of the eight cell battery 1 in accordance with embodiment 3 of the present invention.
Fig. 3B and 3C provide an illustration of the main cover 20 and sub cover 30 in accordance with embodiment 3 of the present invention.
Fig. 3D and 3E provide an illustration of the battery 1 tilted on sides in accordance with one of the embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
Embodiment 1: Six cell battery
Fig.lA describes the first embodiment of this invention. The embodiment comprises a flooded lead acid battery 1 comprising six cells 111 to 116. The battery 1 further comprises a container 10 comprising substantially parallel sides 101&103 and substantially parallel sides 102&104. The sides 102&104 are substantially perpendicular to sides 101&103.
The battery also comprises a main cover 20 and a sub cover 30 the details of which are given in Fig. IB and Fig.lC respectively.
Main cover 20:
The main cover 20 comprises edges 201&203 opposite and substantially parallel to each other; and edges 202&204 opposite and substantially parallel to each other. The edges 201&203 are substantially perpendicular to edges 202&204. The edges 201&203 are disposed above sides 101&103 respectively and edges 202&204 are disposed above sides 102&104 respectively.
The main cover 20 is divided into Part A and Part B by a partition 211. The partition 211 is substantially perpendicular to edges 201&203 and is joined to each of the edges 201&203.
Part A comprises:
1. Baffles of the first type 221&223. The baffles of the first type are substantially parallel to partition 211 and are joined to the edge 201 of the main cover 20. The
baffles of the first type extend towards the edge 203 of the main cover. The baffles of the first type do not however touch the edge 203 of the main cover.
Optionally baffles of the second type 241 to 246 which are substantially in the same plane such that:
a. Baffle 241 is substantially perpendicular to partition 211 and is joined to
it. Baffle 241 is disposed close to the edge 201. The baffle is disposed
towards baffle 223. The baffle 241 has a length less than half the
perpendicular distance between partition 211 and baffle 223. The baffle
241 is disposed away from drainage hole 321 but close to it and towards
edge 203.
b. Baffle 242 is substantially perpendicular to baffle 223 and is joined to it.
The baffle 242 has substantially the same length as baffle 241. The baffle
is disposed towards partition 211. There is thus gap 251 between baffles
241&242. The baffle 242 is disposed away from drainage hole 321 but
close to it and towards edge 203.
c. Baffle 243 is substantially perpendicular to baffle 223 and is joined to it.
Baffle 243 is disposed close to the edge 201. The baffle is disposed
towards baffle 221. The baffle 243 has a length less than half the
perpendicular distance between baffle 223 and baffle 221. The baffle 243
is disposed away from drainage hole 322 but close to it and towards edge
203.
d. Baffle 244 is substantially perpendicular to baffle 221 and is joined to it.
The baffle 244 has substantially the same length as baffle 243. The baffle
is disposed towards baffle 223. There is thus gap 252 between baffles
243&244. The baffle 244 is disposed away from drainage hole 322 but
close to it and towards edge 203.
e. Baffle 245 is substantially perpendicular to baffle 221 and is joined to it.
Baffle 245 is disposed close to the edge 201. The baffle is disposed
towards edge 202. The baffle 245 has a length less than half the
perpendicular distance between baffle 221 and edge 202. The baffle 245 is disposed away from drainage hole 323 but close to it and towards edge 203.
f Baffle 246 is substantially perpendicular to edge 202 and is joined to it. The baffle 246 has substantially the same length as baffle 245. The baffle is disposed towards baffle 221. There is thus gap 253 between baffles 245&246. The baffle 246 is disposed away from drainage hole 323 but close to it and towards edge 203.
It would be noted that while the baffles of the second type 241 to 246 can instead of originating from the partition 211 or the baffles 221&223 as the case may be, can also originate from the edge 201 and be right angled in shape as described in Fig.lF. The baffles of the second type can also have other shapes as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
3. Optionally baffles of the third type 261 to 263 such that:
a. The bottom of baffle 261 is fixed to the main cover 20 opposite and close
to gap 251 and towards edge 203.
b. The bottom of baffle 262 is fixed to the main cover 20 opposite and close
to gap 252 and towards edge 203.
c. The bottom of baffle 263 is fixed to the main cover 20 opposite and close
to gap 253 and towards edge 203.
It would be noted that while the baffles of the third type 261 to 263 are curved in Fig. IB the baffles can also be straight or have other shapes as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
It would be fiirther noted that the baffles 241,242&261 and 243,244&262 and baffles 245,246&263 can be replaced by baffles having substantially the same shape as baffles 281&282 that are described herein after as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
4. Baffles of the fourth type 271 to 273 such that:
a. Baffle 271 is joined to baffle 223 and extends towards partition 211
without touching the partition. The baffle 271 is substantially disposed
beyond baffle 261 and towards edge 203.
b. Baffle 272 is joined to baffle 221 and extends towards baffle 223 without
touching the baffle 223. The baffle 272 is substantially disposed beyond
baffle 262 and towards edge 203.
c. Baffle 273 is joined to edge 202 and extends towards baffle 221 without
touching the baffle 221. The baffle 273 is substantially disposed beyond
baffle 263 and towards edge 203.
It would be noted that while the baffles of the fourth type 271 to 273 are straight in the Fig.lB the baffles can also be curved or have other shapes as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
5. Baffles of the fifth type 291 to 293 such that:
a. Baffle 291 is joined to partition 211 and extends towards baffle 223
without touching the baffle 223. The baffle 291 is substantially disposed
beyond baffle 271 and towards edge 203.
b. Baffle 292 is joined to baffle 223 and extends towards baffle 221 without
touching the baffle 221. The baffle 292 is substantially disposed beyond
baffle 272 and towards edge 203.
c. Baffle 293 is joined to baffle 221 and extends towards edge 202 without
touching the edge 202. The baffle 293 is substantially disposed beyond
baffle 272 and towards edge 203.
It would be noted that while the baffles of the fifth type 291 to 293 are straight in the Fig.lB the baffles can also be curved or have other shapes as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
6. Filling holes 311 to 313 in the main cover 20 such that:
a. Filling hole 311 substantially overlies cell 111 and is substantially
disposed in the center of the cell 111. The filling hole 311 is substantially
disposed beyond baffle of the fifth type 291 and towards edge 203.
b. Filling hole 312 substantially overlies cell 112 and is substantially
disposed in the center of the cell 112. The filling hole 312 is substantially
disposed beyond baffle of the fifth type 292 and towards edge 203.
c. Filling hole 313 substantially overlies cell 113 substantially in the center
of the cell 113. The filling hole 313 is substantially disposed beyond baffle
of the fifth type 293 and towards edge 203.
7. Drainage holes 321 to 323 in the main cover 20 such that:
a. Drainage hole 321 is substantially disposed between edge 201 and baffles
of the second type 241&242.
b. Drainage hole 322 is substantially disposed between edge 201 and baffles
of the second type 243&244.
c. Drainage hole 323 is substantially disposed between edge 201 and baffles
of the second type 245&246.
8. Vent hole 331 is substantially disposed opposite to the filling holes 312 and near edge 203.
9. Optionally baffles of the sixth type 281&282 such that;
a. Baffle 281 is joined to edge 203 and is substantially perpendicular to edge
203. The baffle 281 extends a little beyond vent hole 331.
b. Baffle 282 is joined to edge 203 and is initially substantially perpendicular
to edge 203. The baffle 282 extends a little beyond vent hole 331 and
thereafter changes angle substantially towards baffle 223. After changing
angle the baffle 282 terminates at a point little beyond vent hole 331 but
before baffle 281.
It would be noted that while the baffles of the sixth type 281&282 have the construction described above in Fig. IB the baffles can also have other shapes. For
example the baffles 281&282 can be replaced by baffles having substantially the same shape as baffles 243,244«&262 described hereinbefore. The baffles 281&282 can also be curved, have other shapes or be replaced by other baffles as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
Part A of the main cover 20 slopes downward from edge 203 to edge 201. The slope can be between 2 to 10 degrees, preferably 3 to 7 degrees and more preferably 4 to 5 degrees.
The partition and the six types of baffles in Part A of the main cover 20 have height such that the tops of the partition and the tops of the six types of baffles lie substantially in a plane parallel to the bottom of container 10.
Part B of the main cover 20 comprises:
1. Baffles of the first type 2221&2223. The baffles of the first type are substantially parallel to partition 211 and are joined to the edge 203 of the main cover 20. The baffles of the first type extend towards the edge 201 of the main cover. The baffles of the first type do not however touch the edge 201 of the main cover.
2. Optionally baffles of the second type 2241 to 2246 which are substantially in the same plane such that:
a. Baffle 2241 is substantially perpendicular to partition 211 and is joined to
it. Baffle 2241 is disposed close to the edge 203. The baffle is disposed
towards baffle 2223. The baffle 2241 has a length less than half the
perpendicular distance between partition 211 and baffle 2223. The baffle
2241 is disposed away from drainage hole 3321 but close to it and towards
edge 201.
b. Baffle 2242 is substantially perpendicular to baffle 2223 and is joined to
it. The baffle 2242 has substantially the same length as baffle 2241. The
baffle is disposed towards partition 211. There is thus gap 2251 between
baffles 2241&2242. The baffle 2242 is disposed away from drainage hole
3321 but close to it and towards edge 201.
c. Baffle 2243 is substantially perpendicular to baffle 2223 and is joined to
it. Baffle 2243 is disposed close to the edge 203. The baffle is disposed
towards baffle 2221. The baffle 2243 has a length less than half the
perpendicular distance between baffle 2223 and baffle 2221. The baffle
2243 is disposed away from drainage hole 3322 but close to it and towards
edge 201.
d. Baffle 2244 is substantially perpendicular to baffle 2221 and is joined to
it. The baffle 2244 has substantially the same length as baffle 2243. The
baffle is disposed towards baffle 2223. There is thus gap 2252 between
baffles 2243&2244. The baffle 2244 is disposed away from drainage hole
3322 but close to it and towards edge 201.
e. Baffle 2245 is substantially perpendicular to baffle 2221 and is joined to
it. Baffle 2245 is disposed close to the edge 203. The baffle is disposed
towards edge 204. The baffle 2245 has a length less than half the
perpendicular distance between baffle 2221 and edge 204. The baffle 2245
is disposed away from drainage hole 3323 but close to it and towards edge
201.
f. Baffle 2246 is substantially perpendicular to edge 204 and is joined to it.
The baffle 2246 has substantially the same length as baffle 2245. The
baffle is disposed towards baffle 2221. There is thus gap 2253 between
baffles 2245&2246. The baffle 2246 is disposed away from drainage hole
3323 but close to it and towards edge 201.
The baffles of the second type 2241 to 2246 of Part B can have the same shape as the baffles of the second type described in respect of Part A above, as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
3. Optionally baffles of the third type 2261 to 2263 such that:
a. The bottom of baffle 2261 is fixed to the main cover 20 opposite and close to gap 2251 and towards edge 201.
b. The bottom of baffle 2262 is fixed to the main cover 20 opposite and close
to gap 2252 and towards edge 201.
c. The bottom of baffle 2263 is fixed to the main cover 20 opposite and close
to gap 2253 and towards edge 201.
The baffles of the third type 2261 to 2263 of Part B can have the same shape as the baffles of the third type described in respect of Part A above, as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
4. Baffles of the fourth type 2271 to 2273 such that:
a. Baffle 2271 is joined to baffle 2223 and extends towards partition 211
without touching the partition. The baffle 2271 is substantially disposed
beyond baffle 2261 and towards edge 201.
b. Baffle 2272 is joined to baffle 2221 and extends towards baffle 2223
without touching the baffle 2223. The baffle 2272 is substantially disposed
beyond baffle 2262 and towards edge 201.
c. Baffle 2273 is joined to edge 204 and extends towards baffle 2221 without
touching the baffle 2221. The baffle 2273 is substantially disposed beyond
baffle 2263 and towards edge 201.
The baffles of the fourth type 2271 to 2273 of Part B can have the same shape as the baffles of the second type described in respect of Part A above, as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
5. Baffles of the fifth type 2291 to 2293 such that:
a. Baffle 2291 is joined to partition 211 and extends towards baffle 2223
without touching the baffle 2223. The baffle 2291 is substantially disposed
beyond baffle 2271 and towards edge 201.
b. Baffle 2292 is joined to baffle 2223 and extends towards baffle 2221
without touching the baffle 2221. The baffle 2292 is substantially disposed
beyond baffle 2272 and towards edge 201.
c. Baffle 2293 is joined to baffle 2221 and extends towards edge 204 without touching the edge 204. The baffle 2293 is substantially disposed beyond baffle 2272 and towards edge 201.
The baffles of the fifth type 2291 to 2293 of Part B can have the same shape as the baffles of the fifth type described in respect of Part A above, as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
6. Filling holes 314 to 316 in the main cover 20 such that:
a. Filling hole 314 substantially overlies cell 114 and is substantially
disposed in the center of the cell 114. The filling hole 314 is substantially
disposed beyond baffle of the fifth type 2291 and towards edge 201.
b. Filling hole 315 substantially overlies cell 115 and is substantially
disposed in the center of the cell 115. The filling hole 315 is substantially
disposed beyond baffle of the fifth type 2292 and towards edge 201.
c. Filling hole 316 substantially overlies cell 116 substantially in the center
of the cell 116. The filling hole 316 is substantially disposed beyond baffle
of the fifth type 2293 and towards edge 201.
7. Drainage holes 3321 to 3323 in the main cover 20 such that:
a. Drainage hole 3321 is substantially disposed between edge 203 and baffles
of the second type 2241&2242.
b. Drainage hole 3322 is substantially disposed between edge 203 and baffles
of the second type 2243&2244.
c. Drainage hole 3323 is substantially disposed between edge 203 and baffles
of the second type 2245&2246.
8. Vent hole 3331 is substantially disposed opposite to the filling holes 315 and near edge 201.
9. Optionally baffles of the sixth type 2281&2282 such that;
a. Baffle 2281 is joined to edge 201 and is substantially perpendicular to edge 201. The baffle 2281 extends a little beyond vent hole 3331.
b. Baffle 2282 is joined to edge 201 and is initially substantially perpendicular to edge 201. The baffle 2282 extends a little beyond vent hole 3331 and thereafter changes angle substantially tow^ards baffle 2223. After changing angle the baffle 2282 terminates at a point little beyond vent hole 3331 but before baffle 2281.
The baffles of the sixth type 2281&2282 of Part B can have the same shape as the baffles of the sixth type described in respect of Part A above, as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
Part B of the main cover 20 slopes downward from edge 201 to edge 203. The slope can be between 2 to 10 degrees, preferably 3 to 7 degrees and more preferably 4 to 5 degrees.
The partition and the six types of baffles in Part B of the main cover 20 have height such that the tops of the partition and the tops of the six types of baffles lie substantially in a plane parallel to the bottom of container 10.
It would be evident to a person skilled in the art that Part B of the cover 20 above is symmetrical with Part A. Part B has been described in detail above only in order to make the nature of the symmetry clear.
It would be further noted that in any specific embodiment it is not necessary that Part A and Part B of the main cover 20 should be substantially symmetrical. Part A and Part B of the main cover 20 may differ in the nature of the individual baffles as long as the baffles are of the type described herein before.
Sub cover 30
The sub cover 30 as described in Fig.lC comprises edges 401&403 opposite and substantially parallel to each other; and edges 402&404 opposite and substantially parallel to each other. The edges 401&403 are substantially perpendicular to edges 402&404. The edges 401&403 are disposed above edges 201&203 respectively and edges 402&404 are disposed above edges 202&204 respectively of the main cover 20.
The sub cover 30 is divided into Part C and Part D by a partition 411. The partition 411 is substantially perpendicular to edges 401&403 and is joined to each edge 401&403.
Part C of sub cover 30 comprises:
1. Baffles of the seventh type 421&423 which substantially correspond to baffles of the first type 221&223. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffles of the seventh type 421&423 substantially align with baffles of the first type 221&223.
2. Baffles of the eighth type 441 to 446 (only in case the main cover includes baffles of the second type) which substantially correspond to baffles of the second type 241 to 246. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffles of the eighth type 441 to 446 substantially align with baffles of the second type 241 to 246.
3. Baffles of the ninth type 461 to 463 (only in case the main cover includes baffles of the third type) that substantially correspond to baffles of the third type 261 to 263. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffles of the ninth type 461 to 463 substantially align with baffles of the third type 261 to 263.
4. Baffles of the tenth type 471 to 473 that substantially correspond to baffles of the fourth type 271 to 273. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffles of the tenth type 471 to 473 substantially align with baffles of the fourth type 271 to 273.
5. Baffles of the eleventh type 491 to 493 that substantially correspond to baffles of the fifth type 291 to 293. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffles of the eleventh type 491 to 493 substantially align with baffles of the fifth type 291 to 293.
6. Filling hole 511 of the sub cover 30 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the filling hole 511 of main cover 20 substantially overlies filling hole 311; filling hole 512 of the sub cover 30
substantially overlies filling hole 312 of main cover 20; and filling hole 513 of the sub cover 30 substantially overlies filling hole 313 of main cover 20. Filling holes 511 to 513 are either plugged or otherwise closed when the filling operation is not underway.
7. Vent hole 531 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the vent hole 531 is substantially above vent hole 331 of main cover 20.
8. Baffles of the twelfth type 481&482 (only in case the main cover includes baffles of the sixth type) that substantially correspond to baffles of the sixth type 281&282. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffle of the twelfth type 481&482 substantially aligns with baffles of the sixth type 281«&282.
Part D of sub cover 30 comprises:
1. Baffles of the seventh type 4421&4423 that substantially correspond to baffles of the flrst type 2221&2223. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffles of the seventh type 4421&4423 substantially align with baffles of the first type 2221&2223.
2. Baffles of the eighth type 4441 to 4446 (only in case the main cover includes baffles of the second type) that substantially correspond to baffles of the second type 2241 to 2246. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffles of the eighth type 4441 to 4446 substantially align vdth baffles of the second type 2241 to 2246.
3. Baffles of the ninth type 4461 to 4463 (only in case the main cover includes baffles of the third type) that substantially correspond to baffles of the third type 2261 to 2263. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffles of the ninth type 4461 to 4463 substantially align with baffles of the third type 2261 to 2263.
4. Baffles of the tenth type 4471 to 4473 that substantially correspond to baffles of the fourth type 2271 to 2273. When the sub cover 30 is aligned
with main cover 20 the baffles of the tenth type 4471 to 4473 substantially align with baffles of the fourth type 2271 to 2273.
5. Baffles of the eleventh type 4491 to 4493 that substantially correspond to baffles of the fifth type 2291 to 2293. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffles of the eleventh type 4491 to 4493 substantially align with baffles of the fifth type 2291 to 2293.
6. Filling hole 514 of the sub cover 30 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the filling hole 514 of main cover 20 substantially overlies filling hole 314; filling hole 515 of the sub cover 30 substantially overlies filling hole 315 of main cover 20; and filling hole 516 of the sub cover 30 substantially overlies filling hole 316 of main cover 20. Filling holes 514 to 516 are either plugged or otherwise closed when the filling operation is not underway.
7. Vent hole 5531 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the vent hole 5531 is substantially above vent hole 3331 of main cover 20.
8. Baffles of the twelfth type 4481&4482 (only in case the main cover includes baffles of the sixth type) that substantially correspond to baffles of the sixth type 2281&2282. When the sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the baffle of the twelfth type 4481&4482 substantially aligns with baffles of the sixth type 2281&2282.
The sub cover 30 has no slope and the height of the partition and the six types of baffles of the sub cover 30 are substantially the same.
The volume enclosed between Part A of the main cover 20 and Part C of the sub cover 30 (or Part B of the main cover 20 and Part D of the sub cover 30) should be such that when the battery 1 is placed on either of the sides 101,102,103 or 104(i.e. tilted at 90 degrees) the level of the electrolyte in the main cover 20 should not reach;
a. the end (away fi-om edge 203) of baffles 221&223 of the first type when the battery 1 is placed on edge 203; and
b. the end (away from edge 201) of baffles 2221&2223 of the seventh type
when the battery 1 is placed on side 201;
c. the end (away from edge 202) of either baffles 271,272 or 273 of the fourth
type or baffles 2291,2292 or 2293 of the tenth type when the battery 1 is
placed on side 202;
d. the end (away from edge 204) of either baffles 291,292 or 293 of the fifth
type or baffles 2271,2272 or 2273 of the baffles of the eleventh type when
the battery 1 is placed on side 204;
Once the volume of the cells of the battery 1 is knovm the volume to be enclosed by the covers and the length of baffles can be easily determined as would be evident to a person skilled in the art.
Fig. ID and Fig. IE describe the battery of this embodiment when it is placed on edge 203 and edge 202 respectively.
It may be noted that it is not necessary that the volume of each cell 111 to 116 should be the same. The cells 111 to 116 can have different volumes.
Once the sub cover 30 is fitted on top of main cover 20, the corresponding partitions and baffles of the main cover 20 and the sub cover 30 should so align that neither the electrolyte nor the vapor can fluidly commimicate across such alignment. This can be achieved by either:
a. Heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing or welding the corresponding partitions and
baffles of the main cover 20 and the sub cover 30; or
b. Joining the corresponding partitions and baffles of the main cover 20 and the sub
cover 30 with adhesives; or
c. Joining them in any other manner evident to a person skilled in the art.
The main cover 20 is joined to container 10 by either:
a. Heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing or welding; or
b. Using adhesives; or
c. Joining them in any other manner evident to a person skilled in the art
such that neither the electrolyte nor the vapor can fluidly communicate across such joint.
Embodiment 2: Four cell battery
The present invention can also be embodied as a four cell battery. Fig.2A describes an embodiment of a flooded lead acid battery 1 of this invention. The battery comprises a container 10 of the type described in the previous embodiment. The battery comprises four cells 111 to 114.
The battery also comprises a main cover 20 and a sub cover 30, as in the previous embodiment, the details of which are given in Fig. 2B and Fig.2C respectively.
Main cover 20
The main cover 20 is divided into Part A and Part B by a partition 211 as in the previous embodiment.
Part A comprises:
1. Baffle of the first type 223 as in the previous embodiment.
2. Baffles of the second type 241 to 244 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only four such baffles.
3. Baffles of the third type 261 to 262 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
4. Baffles of the fourth type 271 to 272 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
5. Baffles of the fifth type 291 to 292 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
6. Filling holes 311 to 312 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such filling holes.
7. Drainage holes 321 to 322 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such drainage holes.
8. Vent hole 331 which is substantially disposed opposite beyond the baffle of first type 223 and along edge 203.
9. Baffles of the sixth type 281&282 as in the previous embodiment.
Part A of the main cover 20 slopes downward from edge 203 to edge 201 as in the previous embodiment.
The partition and the six types of baffles in Part A of the main cover 20 have height such that the tops of the partition and the tops of the six types of baffles lie substantially in a plane parallel to the bottom of container 10 as in the previous embodiment.
Part B of the main cover 20 is symmetrical with Part A as in the previous embodiment.
Part B of the main cover comprises:
1. Baffle of the first type 2223 as in the previous embodiment.
2. Baffles of the second type 2241 to 2244 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only four such baffles.
3. Baffles of the third type 2261 to 2262 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
4. Baffles of the fourth type 2271 to 2272 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
5. Baffles of the fifth type 2291 to 2292 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
6. Filling holes 313 to 314 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such filling holes.
7. Drainage holes 3321 to 3322 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such drainage holes.
8. Vent hole 3331 which is substantially disposed opposite beyond the baffle of first type 2223 and along edge 201.
9. Baffles of the sixth type 2281&2282 as in the previous embodiment.
Part A of the main cover 20 slopes downward from edge 203 to edge 201 as in the previous embodiment.
The partition and the six types of baffles in Part A of the main cover 20 have height such that the tops of the partition and the tops of the six types of baffles lie substantially in a plane parallel to the bottom of container 10 as in the previous embodiment.
Sub cover 30
The sub cover 30 as described in Fig.2C comprises edges 401&403 as in the previous embodiment.
The sub cover 30 is divided into Part C and Part D by a partition 411 as in the previous embodiment.
Part C of sub cover 30 comprises:
1. Baffle of the seventh type 423 as in the previous embodiment.
2. Baffles of the eighth type 441 to 444 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only four such baffles.
3. Baffles of the ninth type 461 to 462 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
4. Baffles of the tenth type 471 to 472 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
5. Baffles of the eleventh type 491 to 492 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
6. Filling hole 511 of the sub cover 30 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the filling hole 511 substantially overlies filling hole 311 of main cover 20 and filling hole 512 of the sub cover 30 substantially overlies filling hole 312 of main cover 20.
7. Vent hole 531 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the vent hole 531 is substantially above vent hole 331 of main cover 20.
8. Baffles of the twelfth type 481&482 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
Part D of sub cover 30 comprises:
1. Baffle of the seventh type 4423 as in the previous embodiment.
2. Baffles of the eighth type 4441 to 4444 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only four such baffles.
3. Baffles of the ninth type 4461 to 4462 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
4. Baffles of the tenth type 4471 to 4472 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
5. Baffles of the eleventh type 4491 to 4492 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
6. Filling hole 513 of the sub cover 30 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the filling hole 513 substantially overlies filling hole 313 of main cover 20 and filling hole 514 of the sub cover 30 substantially overlies filling hole 314 of main cover 20.
7. Vent hole 5531 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the vent hole 5531 is substantially above vent hole 3331 of main cover 20.
8. Baffles of the twelfth type 4481&4482 as in the previous embodiment with the difference that there are only two such baffles.
The sub cover 30 has no slope as in the previous embodiment and the height of the partition and the six types of baffles of the sub cover 30 are substantially the same as in the previous embodiment.
The volume enclosed between Part A of the main cover 20 and Part C of the sub cover 30 (or Part B of the main cover 20 and Part D of the sub cover 30) is determined as in the previous embodiment.
Fig. 2D and Fig. 2E describe the battery of this embodiment when it is placed on edge 203 and edge 202 respectively.
The sub cover 30 and the main cover 20 are aligned and joined together as in the previous embodiment.
The main cover 20 is joined to container 10 as in the previous embodiment.
Embodiment 3: Eight cell battery
The present invention can also be embodied as an eight cell battery. Fig.3A describes an embodiment of a flooded lead acid battery 1 of this invention. The battery comprises a container 10 of the type described in the first embodiment. The battery comprises eight cells 111 to 118.
The battery also comprises a main cover 20 and a sub cover 30, as in the first embodiment, the details of which are given in Fig.3B and Fig.3C respectively.
Main cover 30
The main cover 20 is divided into Part A and Part B by a partition 211 as in the first embodiment.
Part A comprises:
1. Baffles of the first type 221 to 223 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are three such baffles.
2. Baffles of the second type 241 to 248 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are eight such baffles.
3. Baffles of the third type 261 to 264 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
4. Baffles of the fourth type 271 to 274 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
5. Baffles of the fifth type 291 to 294 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
6. Filling holes 311 to 314 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such filling holes.
7. Drainage holes 321 to 324 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such drainage holes.
8. Vent hole 331 is substantially disposed opposite to the filling holes 313 and near edge 203.
9. Baffles of the sixth type 281&282 as in the first embodiment.
Part A of the main cover 20 slopes downward from edge 203 to edge 201 as in the first embodiment.
The partition and the six types of baffles in Part A of the main cover 20 have height such that the tops of the partition and the tops of the six types of baffles lie substantially in a plane parallel to the bottom of container 10 as in the first embodiment.
Part B of the main cover 20 is symmetrical with Part A as in the first embodiment. Part B of the main cover comprises:
1. Baffles of the first type 2221 to 2223 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are three such baffles.
2. Baffles of the second type 2241 to 2248 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are eight such baffles.
3. Baffles of the third type 2261 to 2264 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
4. Baffles of the fourth type 2271 to 2274 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
5. Baffles of the fifth type 2291 to 2294 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
6. Filling holes 315 to 318 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such filling holes.
7. Drainage holes 3321 to 3324 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such drainage holes.
8. Vent hole 3331 is substantially disposed opposite to the filling holes 317 and near edge 201.
9. Baffles of the sixth type 2281&2282 as in the first embodiment.
Part B of the main cover 20 slopes downward fi-om edge 201 to edge 203 as in the first embodiment.
The partition and the six types of baffles in Part B of the main cover 20 have height such that the tops of the partition and the tops of the six types of baffles lie substantially in a plane parallel to the bottom of container 10 as in the first embodiment.
Sub cover 30
The sub cover 30 as described in Fig.3C comprises edges 401&403 as in the first embodiment.
The sub cover 30 is divided into Part C and Part D by a partition 411 as in the first embodiment.
Part C of sub cover 30 comprises:
1. Baffles of the seventh type 421 to 423 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are three such baffles.
2. Baffles of the eighth type 441 to 448 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are eight such baffles.
3. Baffles of the ninth type 461 to 464 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
4. Baffles of the tenth type 471 to 474 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
5. Baffles of the eleventh type 491 to 494 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
6. Filling hole 511 of the sub cover 30 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the filling hole 511 substantially overlies filling hole 311 of main cover 20; filling hole 512 of the sub cover 30 substantially overlies filling hole 312 of main cover 20; filling hole 513 substantially overlies filling hole 313 of main cover 20; and filling hole 514 of the sub cover 30 substantially overlies filling hole 314 of main cover 20.
7. Vent hole 531 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the vent hole 531 is substantially above vent hole 331 of main cover 20.
8. Baffles of the twelfth type 481&482 as in the first embodiment.
Part D of sub cover 30 comprises:
1. Baffles of the seventh type 4421 to 4423 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are three such baffles.
2. Baffles of the eighth type 4441 to 4448 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are eight such baffles.
3. Baffles of the ninth type 4461 to 4464 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
4. Baffles of the tenth type 4471 to 4474 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
5. Baffles of the eleventh type 4491 to 4494 as in the first embodiment with the difference that there are four such baffles.
6. Filling hole 515 of the sub cover 30 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the filling hole 515 substantially overlies filling hole 315 of main cover 20; filling hole 516 of the sub cover 30 substantially overlies filling hole 316 of main cover 20; filling hole 517
substantially overlies filling hole 317 of main cover 20; and filling hole 518 of the sub cover 30 substantially overlies filling hole 318 of main cover 20.
7. Vent hole 5531 is so disposed that when sub cover 30 is aligned with main cover 20 the vent hole 5531 is substantially above vent hole 3331 of main cover 20.
8. Baffles of the twelfth type 4481&4482 as in the first embodiment.
The sub cover 30 has no slope as in the first embodiment and the height of the partition and the six types of baffles of the sub cover 30 are substantially the same as in the first embodiment.
The volume enclosed between Part A of the main cover 20 and Part C of the sub cover 30 (or Part B of the main cover 20 and Part D of the sub cover 30) is determined as in the first embodiment.
Fig. 3D and Fig. 3E describe the battery of this embodiment when it is placed on edge 203 and edge 202 respectively.
The sub cover 30 and the main cover 20 are aligned and joined together as in the first embodiment.
The main cover 20 is joined to container 10 as in the first embodiment.
Embodiment 4: Six Cell Battery - Type 2
Fig.lF describes another embodiment of the six cell battery of Embodiment 1. The battery of this embodiment has the same structures/features as the battery of Embodiment 1 and the structure/features are identically numbered. The baffles of this embodiment however are curved.
Embodiment 5: Four Cell Battery - Type 2
Another embodiment describes the four cell battery of Embodiment 2. The battery of this embodiment has the same structures/features as the battery of Embodiment 2 and the structure/features are identically numbered. The baffles of this embodiment however are curved.
Embodiment 6: Eight Cell Battery - Type 2
Yet another embodiment describes eight cell battery of Embodiment 3. The battery of this embodiment has the same structures/features as the battery of Embodiment 3 and the structure/features are identically numbered. The baffles of this embodiment however are curved.
The above embodiments are intended to only exemplify the various manners in which the invention can be embodied. The embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The invention, as would be evident to a person skilled in the art, can be exemplified in many other ways. The baffles of the invention can have alternate shapes as would evident to a person skilled in the art.

We Claim
1. A flooded lead acid battery 1 comprising;
electrolyte;
a main cover 20 comprising;
a partition 211 which divides the main cover into two parts such that each of the parts comprises a plurality of drainage holes and filling holes; a vent hole; and baffles of the first, fourth and fifth type;
a sub cover 30 comprising
a partition 411 which divides the main cover into two parts such that each of the parts comprises a plurality of filling holes; a vent hole; and a plurality of baffles, such that the filling holes, the vent hole, the partition and the baffles of the main cover correspond to the filling holes, the vent hole, the partition and the baffles of the sub cover;
such that
one of the parts of the main cover slopes downward in one direction and the other part of the main cover slopes downward in the opposite direction;
the drainage holes are disposed towards the end of the slope; and
the volume enclosed by the main cover and the sub cover is such that when the battery 1 is placed on any side the level of the electrolyte in the main cover does not reach the end of the baffle of the flrst type, fourth type or the fifth type, so as to spill over the concerned baffle and flow towards the filling holes or the vent hole.
2. The flooded lead acid battery 1 of claim 1 wherein the battery comprises six cells.
3. The flooded lead acid battery 1 of either claim 1 or claim 2 wherein some of the baffles are curved.
4. The flooded lead acid battery 1 of any of the preceding claims wherein the battery further comprises baffles of the sixth type.
5. The flooded lead acid battery 1 of any of the preceding claims wherein the battery further comprises baffles of the third type.
6. The flooded lead acid battery 1 of any of the preceding claims wherein the battery further comprises baffles of the second type.