Energy storage device configured to discharge energy in response to unsafe conditions

Abstract

A method, device and system is disclosed for rapidly and safely discharging remaining energy stored in an electrochemical batteryin the event of an internal short circuit or other fault. In its best mode of implementation, if a sensordetects one or more parameters such as battery temperatureor pressure, exceeding a predetermined threshold value, the terminalsof the battery or cell are intentionally short-circuited external to the battery through a low or near zero resistance loadwhich rapidly drains energy from the battery. Heat generated by such rapid drain is absorbed by a heat absorbing materialsuch as an endothermic phase-change material like paraffin. The rate energy is drained via the external discharge loadmay be controlled with an electronic circuitresponsive to factors such as state of charge and battery temperature. Devices such as inductive charging coils, piezoelectric and Peltier devices, may also be used as emergency energy discharge loads. Heat absorption materialmay be used to protect adjacent issue in medically-implanted devices.