Battery Thermal Runaway Risk and Preventing Safety Events Using Acoustic Emissions Monitoring

INVENTION REFERENCE NUMBER

202606198

  • Analytical-Instrumentation
  • Detectors and Sensors
A computer monitor displays a wave form, showing vivid and intense data. The red, green and blue colored lines are shown on a black background with orange horizontal lines. Image from Envato

A monitoring method and algorithm that provides early detection of battery thermal runaway risk by analyzing acoustic emissions during operation. The technology addresses limitations of conventional indicators such as temperature and voltage by identifying internal changes earlier, enabling proactive safety interventions. This approach enhances battery safety monitoring in high-risk environments, helping prevent failure events in applications such as electric vehicles and stationary storage systems.

Description

This technology uses acoustic emissions monitoring combined with advanced signal analysis to identify early indicators of battery instability. Unlike traditional approaches that rely on external measurements, the system captures subtle internal fluctuations associated with processes such as gas generation and structural changes. A specialized sensing configuration enables operation under demanding conditions, including elevated temperatures and environments where gases or particulates may be present.

Captured signals are processed using algorithms that classify different acoustic patterns and distinguish meaningful events from background noise. This allows the system to identify precursor signals linked to failure mechanisms before they manifest in conventional metrics. The method is designed for real-time, in-operando use and can be integrated with existing battery management systems to support continuous safety monitoring and risk assessment across a range of battery formats and operating conditions.

Benefits

  • Earlier detection of thermal runaway risk compared to conventional monitoring methods
  • Improved ability to distinguish between different failure-related signals
  • Compatible with real-time monitoring and system integration
  • Enhances operational safety in demanding environments

Applications and Industries

  • Battery management systems for electric vehicles
  • Stationary battery storage monitoring and diagnostics
  • Advanced battery testing and safety validation
  • Automotive and energy storage industries

Contact

To learn more about this technology, email [email protected] or call 865-574-1051.



Contact

To learn more about this technology, email [email protected] or call 865-574-1051.