Vehicle thermal management system
By using a quencher in electric vehicles to exchange heat between refrigerant and coolant, and combining cooling and heating circuits, the temperature management problem of battery modules and electrical components is solved, heating efficiency and battery performance are improved, and system design is simplified.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202011374169.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2020-04-03
- Filing Date
- 2020-11-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-06
- Estimated Expiration
- 2040-11-30
AI Technical Summary
In existing electric vehicles, the temperature management efficiency of battery modules and electrical components is low, the cooling system has limited space and high power requirements, and the waste heat generated by electrical components cannot be effectively utilized.
A quencher is used for heat exchange between refrigerant and coolant. Combined with a cooling device, a battery cooling device and a heating circuit, the battery module temperature is regulated by coolant and refrigerant, and waste heat from electrical components is recovered for internal heating.
It achieves effective regulation of battery module temperature, improves heating efficiency, optimizes battery performance, increases vehicle driving range, simplifies system design, and reduces manufacturing costs and weight.
Smart Images

Figure CN113492637B_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Cross-references to related applications
[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0040847, filed on April 3, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field
[0003] The present invention relates to a thermal management system for a vehicle, and more specifically, to a thermal management system for a vehicle that regulates the temperature of a battery module by using a chiller that exchanges heat between a refrigerant and a coolant, and improves heating efficiency by using waste heat generated by electrical components. Background Technology
[0004] In recent years, as environmental and energy resources have become increasingly important issues, electric vehicles have emerged as a popular mode of transportation for the future. Electric vehicles utilize battery modules (multiple rechargeable batteries forming an assembly) as their primary power source, thus producing no exhaust fumes and very little noise.
[0005] This electric vehicle is driven by a drive motor that operates using electricity supplied from a battery module. In addition, the electric vehicle includes electrical components for controlling and managing the drive motor, multiple electronic convenience devices, and electronic devices for charging the battery module.
[0006] On the other hand, effective temperature management of electrical components and battery modules is a very important challenge that needs to be overcome, as a large amount of heat is generated in batteries, electrical components, and drive motors that serve as the main power source for electric vehicles, requiring effective cooling.
[0007] Typically, a separate cooling system is used to regulate the temperature of electrical components and battery modules. However, the capacity of this cooling system needs to be increased based on the temperature of the electrical components and battery modules, which leads to space constraints. Furthermore, increasing the capacity of the cooling system also increases the power required to operate it.
[0008] Accordingly, there is a need to develop technologies that effectively utilize the waste heat generated by electrical components, as well as technologies that regulate the temperature of electrical components and batteries, in order to maximize energy efficiency while ensuring the durability of electrical components and battery modules in electric vehicles.
[0009] The information included in the background section of this invention is intended only to enhance the understanding of the overall background of the invention and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that such information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention
[0010] Various aspects of the present invention are dedicated to providing a vehicle thermal management system that regulates the temperature of a battery module by using a chiller that facilitates heat exchange between a refrigerant and a coolant, and improves heating efficiency by using waste heat generated by electrical components.
[0011] Various aspects of the present invention aim to provide a thermal management system for a vehicle, comprising: a cooling device, a battery cooling device, a quencher, and a heating circuit; the cooling device being configured to include a radiator, a first water pump, a first valve, and a reservoir connected via a coolant line, and to circulate coolant in the coolant line to cool at least one electrical component disposed on the coolant line; the battery cooling device being configured to include a battery coolant line connected via a second valve to the coolant line, and a second water pump and a battery module connected via the battery coolant line to circulate coolant through the battery module; the quencher being disposed between the second valve and the battery module. The battery coolant line is connected to the refrigerant line of the air conditioning unit via a refrigerant connection line to regulate the temperature of the coolant by heat exchange between the coolant supplied to the battery coolant line and the refrigerant selectively supplied from the air conditioning unit via the refrigerant connection line; the heating circuit is configured to include a heater connected to the coolant line and a quencher via a first connection line and a second connection line to supply coolant whose temperature rises when passing through at least one electrical component; wherein a reservoir is disposed on the coolant line between the radiator and the second valve, and is connected via a supply line to the coolant line connecting the second valve and the first water pump.
[0012] The first end of the first connecting line can be connected to the coolant line via a first valve, and the second end of the first connecting line can be connected to the heater. The first end of the second connecting line can be connected to the heater, and the second end of the second connecting line can be connected to the quencher. The heater can be installed inside the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) module included in the air conditioning unit.
[0013] The battery cooling device may further include a first coolant heater disposed on the battery coolant line between the battery module and the quencher.
[0014] When the battery module is heated, the connection between the battery coolant line and the coolant line can be disconnected by operating the second valve; the coolant can circulate along the battery coolant line by running the second water pump; and the first coolant heater can operate to heat the coolant supplied to the battery module along the battery coolant line.
[0015] An air conditioning unit may include: an HVAC module, a condenser, a compressor, a secondary condenser, a first expansion valve, and a second expansion valve. The HVAC module is configured to include an evaporator and a door. The evaporator is connected to the HVAC module via a refrigerant line. The door is configured to selectively introduce outside air through the evaporator into the heater according to the vehicle's cooling mode, heating mode, and heating / dehumidification mode. The condenser is connected to a coolant line to allow coolant to circulate through the condenser for heat exchange between the coolant and refrigerant supplied via a refrigerant line connected to the condenser. The compressor is connected between the evaporator and the condenser via a refrigerant line. The secondary condenser is disposed on the refrigerant line between the condenser and the evaporator. The first expansion valve is disposed on the refrigerant line between the secondary condenser and the evaporator. The second expansion valve is disposed on the refrigerant connection line.
[0016] The first end of the refrigerant connection line can be connected to the refrigerant line between the auxiliary condenser and the first expansion valve, and the second end of the refrigerant connection line can be connected to the refrigerant line between the evaporator and the compressor.
[0017] Each of the quencher and condenser can be a water-cooled heat exchanger, and the auxiliary condenser can be an air-cooled heat exchanger.
[0018] The HVAC module may further include an air heater disposed between the heater and the evaporator to selectively heat the outside air flowing into the heater.
[0019] When the temperature of the coolant supplied to the heater is lower than the target temperature for internal heating, the air heater can operate to raise the temperature of the outside air flowing into the heater.
[0020] When the battery module is cooled using refrigerant, in the cooling device, by operating the first water pump, the coolant can circulate in the coolant line, and the supply line can be connected; the first connecting line can be shut off by operating the first valve, and the second connecting line can also be shut off; in the battery cooling device, by operating the second water pump, the coolant can circulate in the battery coolant line; and by operating the second valve, each of the cooling device and the battery cooling device can form an independent closed loop, in which the coolant circulates; simultaneously in the air conditioning device, the refrigerant connecting line can be connected by operating the second expansion valve; the second expansion valve can expand the refrigerant supplied to the refrigerant connecting line and supply the expanded refrigerant to the quencher.
[0021] When waste heat is recovered from the electrical components in the vehicle's heating and dehumidification modes, the first connecting line can be opened by operating the first valve, and the second connecting line can also be opened; in the cooling system, a portion of the coolant line connected to the radiator and a portion of the coolant line connecting the radiator and the reservoir are closed relative to the first connecting line; the battery coolant lines, except for a portion of the battery coolant line connected to the quencher, are closed by operating the second valve; the coolant heated by at least one electrical component is supplied to the heater via the first connecting line by operating the first water pump, without passing through the radiator; the coolant discharged from the heater flows into the quencher via the second connecting line, and flows into the electrical components via the battery coolant line and the coolant line opened by operating the second valve; a portion of the coolant stored in the reservoir can circulate along the opened coolant line via the opened supply line; simultaneously, in the air conditioning system, the refrigerant connecting line can be closed by operating the second expansion valve, and the refrigerant can circulate along the refrigerant line by operating the compressor.
[0022] When the electrical components and battery module are cooled using coolant cooled in the radiator, the first and second connecting lines can be shut off by operating the first valve; the battery coolant line can be connected to the coolant line by operating the second valve; the coolant cooled by the radiator and stored in the reservoir can be supplied to the battery module by operating the second valve and the second water pump as it circulates along the battery coolant line; the coolant circulating through the battery cooling device can be supplied to the electrical components as it circulates along the coolant line by operating the first water pump; a portion of the coolant stored in the reservoir can circulate along the coolant line through the connected supply line.
[0023] When waste heat is recovered from electrical components in the vehicle's dehumidification mode, the first connecting line can be connected by operating the first valve, and the second connecting line can also be connected. In the cooling system, a portion of the coolant line connected to the radiator and a portion of the coolant line connecting the radiator and the reservoir can be shut off relative to the first connecting line. The battery coolant line, except for a portion of the battery coolant line connected to the quencher, can be shut off by operating the second valve. Coolant heated by at least one electrical component can be supplied to the heater via the first water pump along the first connecting line, without passing through the radiator. Coolant discharged from the heater can flow into the quencher along the second connecting line and can flow into the electrical components via the battery coolant line and the coolant line connected by operating the second valve. A portion of the coolant stored in the reservoir can circulate along the connected coolant line via the connected supply line.
[0024] When an electrical component overheats, a first valve can open a coolant line connected to the radiator, allowing a portion of the coolant passing through at least one electrical component to flow into the first connection line, while the remainder flows into the radiator.
[0025] The first valve can be a three-way valve configured to distribute flow, and the second valve can be a four-way valve.
[0026] Electrical components may include: an electric power control unit (EPCU), a motor, an inverter, or an on-board charger (OBC).
[0027] When the coolant is circulated to the coolant line by running the first water pump, the supply line can be connected to the coolant line.
[0028] The heating circuit may further include a second coolant heater disposed on the first connecting line.
[0029] When the temperature of the coolant supplied to the heater through the first connecting pipeline is lower than the target temperature for internal heating, the second coolant heater can operate to raise the temperature of the outside air flowing into the heater.
[0030] As described above, the vehicle thermal management system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention simplifies the entire system by using a quencher that exchanges heat between the coolant and the refrigerant, adjusting the temperature of the battery module according to the vehicle mode, and heating the vehicle interior by using the coolant.
[0031] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, heating efficiency can also be improved by recovering waste heat from electrical components and using it for internal heating.
[0032] Furthermore, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the performance of the battery module can be optimized by effectively controlling the temperature of the battery module, and the total driving range of the vehicle can be increased by effectively managing the battery module.
[0033] In addition, it can simplify the entire system, thereby reducing manufacturing costs, lightening weight, and improving space utilization.
[0034] The methods and apparatus of the present invention have other features and advantages that will be apparent from or will be set forth in detail in the accompanying drawings and following detailed description, which together serve to explain the particular principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description
[0035] Figure 1 A block diagram of a vehicle thermal management system according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is shown.
[0036] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the operational status of cooling electrical components and battery modules using radiators in a thermal management system of a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0037] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the operational state of a vehicle's thermal management system, which uses a refrigerant to cool the battery module, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0038] Figure 4 The diagram shows the operating state of a vehicle's cooling mode in a thermal management system according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0039] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the operational status of recovering waste heat from electrical components in the vehicle's heating mode within a thermal management system according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0040] Figure 6 The diagram shows the operating status of the vehicle's heating and dehumidification modes in the thermal management system of a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0041] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the operational state of raising the battery module temperature in the thermal management system of a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0042] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale, but are merely appropriately simplified depictions to illustrate the various features of the basic principles of the invention. Specific design features of the invention as included herein, such as specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, will be determined in part by the specific environment in which they are intended for application and use.
[0043] Throughout these figures, the same reference numerals denote the same or equivalent parts of the invention. Detailed Implementation
[0044] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of the invention, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings and described below. Although the invention will be described in conjunction with exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood that this specification is not intended to limit the invention to those exemplary embodiments. In another aspect, the invention is intended to cover not only the exemplary embodiments thereof, but also various alternative embodiments, modified embodiments, equivalent embodiments, and other embodiments that may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
[0045] In the following description, various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0046] Since the exemplary embodiments described in the specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are only the most preferred exemplary embodiments and configurations of the present invention, they do not represent the entire technical concept of the present invention. It is understood that various equivalent examples and modifications of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention may be substituted at the time of filing this application.
[0047] To clearly describe the invention, components not related to the description will be omitted, and throughout the specification, the same or similar components will be indicated by the same reference numerals.
[0048] Since the dimensions and thicknesses of each configuration shown in the figures are arbitrarily shown for ease of description, the invention is not limited to the configurations shown in the figures, and the enlarged thicknesses are shown to clearly show several parts and areas.
[0049] Furthermore, throughout the specification, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the words “comprising” and variations such as “including” or “includes” should be understood to imply inclusion of the stated element but not exclusion of any other element.
[0050] Furthermore, the terms described in the specification, such as “...unit”, “...device”, “...component” and “...building”, mean a unit with an integrated configuration having at least one function or operation.
[0051] Figure 1 A block diagram of a vehicle thermal management system according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is shown.
[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle's thermal management system can regulate the temperature of the battery module 24 by using a quencher 30 that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the coolant, and can recover waste heat generated by the electrical components 15 for use in internal heating.
[0053] Such a thermal management system can be applied to electric vehicles.
[0054] refer to Figure 1 The thermal management system may include: a cooling device 10, a battery cooling device 20, a cooler 30, and a heating circuit 40.
[0055] First, the cooling device 10 includes: a radiator 12 connected to the coolant line 11, a first water pump 14, a first valve V1, and a liquid storage tank 16.
[0056] The radiator 12 is mounted at the front of the vehicle, and the cooling fan 13 is mounted at the rear of the radiator 12, so that the coolant is cooled by the operation of the cooling fan 13 and by heat exchange with the outside air.
[0057] In addition, electrical components 15 may include: an electric power control unit (EPCU), a motor, an inverter, or an on-board charger (OBC).
[0058] The electrical components 15 configured as described above can be installed on the coolant line 11 for water cooling.
[0059] Accordingly, when recovering waste heat from electrical components 15 in the vehicle's heating mode, heat generated by the EPCU, motor, inverter, or OBC can be recovered.
[0060] The cooling device 10 can circulate coolant in the coolant line 11, so that coolant is supplied to the electrical components 15 disposed on the coolant line 11.
[0061] The battery cooling device 20 includes: a battery coolant line 21 connected to the coolant line 11 via a second valve V2, a second water pump 22 connected to the battery coolant line 21, and a battery module 24.
[0062] The battery cooling device 20 can selectively circulate coolant through the battery module 24 by operating the second water pump 22.
[0063] Here, the first water pump 14 and the second water pump 22 can each be an electric water pump.
[0064] Meanwhile, the battery cooling device 20 may further include a first coolant heater 26, which is disposed on the battery coolant line 21 between the battery module 24 and the second valve V2.
[0065] When the temperature of the coolant supplied to the battery module 24 is lower than the target temperature, the first coolant heater 26 can be activated to heat the coolant circulating in the battery coolant line 21.
[0066] Accordingly, the coolant whose temperature rises when passing through the first coolant heater 26 can be supplied to the battery module 24 to raise the temperature of the battery module 24.
[0067] In other words, the first coolant heater 26 can be selectively activated when the temperature of the battery module 24 is increased.
[0068] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the cooler 30 is disposed on the battery coolant line 21 between the second valve V2 and the battery module 24.
[0069] The quencher 30 is connected to the refrigerant line 51 of the air conditioning unit 50 via the refrigerant connection line 61. That is to say, the quencher 30 can be a water-cooled heat exchanger in which coolant flows.
[0070] Accordingly, the cooler 30 can regulate the temperature of the coolant by exchanging heat between the coolant selectively supplied to the battery coolant line 21 and the refrigerant selectively supplied by the air conditioning unit 50.
[0071] Here, the liquid storage tank 16 is installed on the coolant line 11 between the radiator 12 and the second valve V2.
[0072] The storage tank 16 can be connected via the coolant line 11 connecting the second valve V2 and the first water pump 14, as well as the supply line 17.
[0073] When the coolant is circulated to the coolant line 11 by the operation of the first water pump 14, the supply line 17 can be connected to the coolant line 11.
[0074] In other words, when the first water pump 14 is running, the storage tank 16 can always allow some of the stored coolant to flow into the coolant line 11 through the supply line 17.
[0075] Accordingly, when the first water pump 14 is running, cavitation can be prevented from occurring in the first water pump 14. In addition, damage to the first water pump 14 due to cavitation can be prevented in advance.
[0076] The heating circuit 40 includes a heater 52a, which is connected to the coolant line 11 and the quencher 30 via a first connecting line 41 and a second connecting line 42 to supply coolant whose temperature rises when passing through the electrical component 15.
[0077] Here, the first end of the first connecting line 41 can be connected to the coolant line 11 via the first valve V1, and the second end of the first connecting line 41 can be connected to the heater 52a.
[0078] The first end of the second connecting line 42 can be connected to the heater 52a, and the second end of the second connecting line 42 can be connected to the quencher 30.
[0079] In addition, the heater 52a may be installed inside the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) module 52 included in the air conditioning unit 50.
[0080] Accordingly, when heating the interior of the vehicle, the heating circuit 40 can supply high-temperature coolant to the heater 52a via the first connecting line 41 and the second connecting line 42, which are connected by operating the first valve V1.
[0081] Here, the heating circuit 40 may further include a second coolant heater 43, which is disposed on the first connecting line 41 between the first valve V1 and the heater 52a.
[0082] The second coolant heater 43 can raise the temperature of the coolant by selectively heating the coolant circulating along the first connecting line 41.
[0083] In other words, when the temperature of the coolant supplied to heater 52a in vehicle heating mode is lower than the target temperature, the second coolant heater 43 can be turned on to heat the coolant circulating through the first connecting line 41, so that the heated coolant flows into heater 52a.
[0084] The second coolant heater 43 may be an electric heater that operates according to the power supply.
[0085] Meanwhile, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, as various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a second coolant heater 43 is disposed in a first connecting line 41. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and an air heater 52c that raises the temperature of the external air introduced into the vehicle can be used instead of the second coolant heater 43.
[0086] When the temperature of the coolant supplied to heater 52a is lower than the target temperature for internal heating, air heater 52c can operate to raise the temperature of the external air flowing into heater 52a.
[0087] Air heater 52c can be mounted inside the HVAC module 52, facing the interior of the vehicle, at the front of heater 52a, to selectively heat the outside air supplied to heater 52a.
[0088] In other words, one of the second coolant heater 43 and the air heater 52c can be used in the heating circuit 40.
[0089] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the air conditioning device 50 includes an HVAC module 52, a condenser 53, a secondary condenser 54, a first expansion valve 55, an evaporator 56, and a compressor 59 connected via a refrigerant line 51.
[0090] First, the HVAC module 52 includes a switch door 52b and an evaporator 56 connected to the HVAC module 52 via a refrigerant line 51. The switch door 52b is used to control the selective introduction of outside air through the evaporator 56 into the heater 52a according to the vehicle's cooling mode, heating mode, and heating / dehumidification mode.
[0091] In other words, in the vehicle's heating mode, the door 52b is opened to allow outside air passing through the evaporator 56 to be introduced into the heater 52a. Conversely, in the vehicle's cooling mode, the door 52b is opened to close the heater 52a, allowing outside air cooled while passing through the evaporator 56 to flow directly into the vehicle.
[0092] Here, the HVAC module 52 may further include an air heater 52c disposed between the heater 52a and the evaporator 56 to selectively heat the outside air supplied to the heater 52a.
[0093] When the temperature of the coolant supplied to heater 52a is lower than the target temperature for internal heating, air heater 52c can operate to raise the temperature of the external air flowing into heater 52a.
[0094] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the condenser 53 is connected to the refrigerant line 51 to allow refrigerant to pass through the condenser 53, and the condenser 53 is connected to the coolant line 11 to allow coolant circulating through the refrigeration unit 10 to pass through the condenser 53.
[0095] The condenser 53 condenses the refrigerant by exchanging heat with the coolant supplied via the coolant line 11. In other words, the condenser 53 can be a water-cooled heat exchanger into which the coolant flows.
[0096] The condenser 53 configured as described above can exchange heat between the refrigerant supplied by the compressor 59 and the coolant supplied by the cooling device 10 to condense the refrigerant.
[0097] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary condenser 54 may be disposed on the refrigerant line 51 between the condenser 53 and the evaporator 56.
[0098] Here, the auxiliary condenser 54 can further condense the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 53 by exchanging heat with the outside air. In other words, the auxiliary condenser 54 is arranged in front of the radiator 12 so that the refrigerant flowing into the auxiliary condenser 54 can exchange heat with the outside air.
[0099] As a result, the auxiliary condenser 54 can be an air-cooled heat exchanger that uses external air to condense the refrigerant.
[0100] Accordingly, the auxiliary condenser 54 can further condense the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 53 to increase the secondary cooling of the refrigerant, thereby improving the coefficient of performance (COP), which is the coefficient of cooling capacity relative to the power required by the compressor.
[0101] A first expansion valve 55 is installed on the refrigerant line 51 between the auxiliary condenser 54 and the evaporator 56. The first expansion valve 55 receives refrigerant passing through the auxiliary condenser 54 and causes it to expand.
[0102] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first end of the refrigerant connection line 61 is connected to the refrigerant line 51 between the auxiliary condenser 54 and the first expansion valve 55. The second end of the refrigerant connection line 61 may be connected to the refrigerant line 51 between the evaporator 56 and the compressor 59.
[0103] Here, the second expansion valve 63 is installed on the refrigerant connection line 61. When the battery module 24 is cooled by the coolant that exchanges heat with the refrigerant, the second expansion valve 63 can expand the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant connection line 61 to introduce the expanded refrigerant into the quencher 30.
[0104] In other words, when the battery module 24 is cooled by using a coolant that exchanges heat with the refrigerant, the second expansion valve 63 operates to expand the refrigerant.
[0105] The second expansion valve 63 can introduce refrigerant discharged from the auxiliary condenser 54 into the quencher 30 while the temperature of the refrigerant is reduced by expanding the refrigerant, so as to further reduce the temperature of the coolant passing through the interior of the quencher 30.
[0106] As a result, the coolant whose temperature drops when passing through the quencher 30 is introduced into the battery module 24, cooling the battery module 24 more effectively.
[0107] Compressor 59 is connected between evaporator 56 and condenser 53 via refrigerant line 51. Compressor 59 can compress gaseous refrigerant and supply the compressed refrigerant to condenser 53.
[0108] Here, the first expansion valve 55 and the second expansion valve 63 can be electronic expansion valves, which selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the flow rate of refrigerant through the refrigerant line 51 or the refrigerant connection line 61.
[0109] In addition, the first valve V1 can be a three-way valve configured for distributing flow, and the second valve V2 can be a four-way valve.
[0110] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 2 to 7 The operation and function of the thermal management system of the vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, configured as described above, are described in detail.
[0111] First, refer to Figure 2 The operation of using a radiator 12 to cool electrical components 15 and battery module 24 in a thermal management system of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described.
[0112] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the operational status of cooling electrical components and battery modules using radiators in a thermal management system of a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0113] refer to Figure 2 The first connecting line 41 and the second connecting line 42 are shut off by the operation of the first valve V1.
[0114] In addition, the battery coolant line 21 is connected to the coolant line 11 via the operation of the second valve V2.
[0115] In this state, the first water pump 14 operates in the cooling device 10 to cool the electrical components 15.
[0116] In this state, the second water pump 22 operates in the battery cooling device 20 to cool the battery module 24.
[0117] Accordingly, by operating the second valve V2 and the second water pump 22, the coolant cooled by the radiator 12 and stored in the reservoir 16 is circulated to the battery coolant line 21 and supplied to the battery module 24.
[0118] By operating the first water pump 14, the coolant circulating through the battery cooling device 20 can be supplied to the electrical components 15 as it circulates along the coolant line 11.
[0119] Here, a portion of the coolant stored in the reservoir 16 can circulate along the coolant line 11 via the connected supply line 17.
[0120] In other words, the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 and stored in the reservoir 16 is circulated through the coolant line 11 and the battery coolant line 21 by the operation of the first water pump 14 and the second water pump 22, respectively, thereby effectively cooling the electrical components 15 and the battery module 24.
[0121] The air conditioning unit 50 is not operating because the vehicle's cooling mode is not activated.
[0122] On the other hand, although it has been described in the exemplary embodiments of the present invention that both electrical component 15 and battery module 24 are cooled, the present invention is not limited thereto. When cooling one of electrical component 15 and battery module 24 separately, the first water pump 14 and the second water pump 22 may be selectively operated.
[0123] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, reference will be made to Figure 3 The operation of cooling battery module 24 by using a refrigerant is described.
[0124] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the operational status of a vehicle's thermal management system, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, by using a refrigerant to cool the battery module.
[0125] refer to Figure 3 The first connecting line 41 is shut off by operating the first valve V1, and the second connecting line 42 is also shut off.
[0126] In this state, the first water pump 14 operates in the cooling device 10 to cool the electrical components 15.
[0127] In this state, the second water pump 22 operates in the battery cooling device 20 to cool the battery module 24.
[0128] Here, by operating the second valve V2, the cooling device 10 and the battery cooling device 20 can form an independent closed loop, in which the coolant circulates.
[0129] In other words, in the battery cooling device 20, the connection to the coolant line 11 is shut off by operating the second valve V2. In this state, the battery cooling device 20 can form a closed and shut-off loop, wherein the coolant is circulated independently in the battery coolant line 21 by operating the second water pump 22.
[0130] In the air conditioning unit 50, every component except the evaporator 56 operates to supply refrigerant to the quencher 30.
[0131] Here, the refrigerant line 51 connecting the auxiliary condenser 54 and the evaporator 56 is shut off by the operation of the first expansion valve 55.
[0132] The refrigerant connection line 61 is connected by operating the second expansion valve 63.
[0133] Accordingly, the refrigerant through the auxiliary condenser 54 can circulate along the refrigerant line 51 and the refrigerant connection line 61.
[0134] Here, the second expansion valve 63 can expand the refrigerant supplied to the refrigerant connection line 61 to supply the refrigerant to the quencher 30.
[0135] Here, the battery module 24 is cooled by the operation of the second water pump 22, through the coolant of the quencher 30 circulating in the battery coolant line 21.
[0136] The coolant in the quencher 30 is cooled by exchanging heat with the expanding refrigerant supplied to the quencher 30. The coolant cooled in the quencher 30 is then supplied to the battery module 24. Accordingly, the battery module 24 is cooled by the cooled coolant.
[0137] In other words, the second expansion valve 63 causes the refrigerant passing through the auxiliary condenser 54 to expand so as to supply the expanded refrigerant to the quencher 30, and the second expansion valve 63 connects the refrigerant connection line 61.
[0138] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the auxiliary condenser 54 is expanded by the operation of the second expansion valve 63 to enter a low temperature and low pressure state, and flows into the quencher 30 connected to the refrigerant connection line 61.
[0139] Subsequently, the refrigerant flowing into the quencher 30 exchanges heat with the coolant, and the refrigerant flows into the compressor 59 through the refrigerant connection line 61.
[0140] Compressor 59 compresses the refrigerant and supplies it to condenser 53.
[0141] Condenser 53 condenses the refrigerant using the coolant flowing along the coolant line 11. Auxiliary condenser 54 can further condense the refrigerant introduced from condenser 53 by exchanging heat with outside air.
[0142] Accordingly, the coolant whose temperature rises during the cooling of battery module 24 is cooled by exchanging heat with the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant inside the quencher 30. The cooled coolant is then supplied back to battery module 24 through battery coolant line 21.
[0143] As a result, the coolant can effectively cool the battery module 24 while repeating the above operations.
[0144] On the other hand, when it is necessary to cool the vehicle interior in the state of using refrigerant to cool the battery in mode 24, the refrigerant line 51 connecting the auxiliary condenser 54 and the evaporator 56 can be connected by operating the first expansion valve 55.
[0145] In other words, the first expansion valve 55 can selectively connect or disconnect the refrigerant line 51 connecting the auxiliary condenser 54 and the evaporator 56 depending on whether the vehicle interior needs cooling.
[0146] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 4 Describe the operation of the vehicle's cooling mode.
[0147] Figure 4 The diagram shows the operating state of a vehicle's cooling mode in a thermal management system according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0148] refer to Figure 4 In the cooling device 10, the coolant circulates in the coolant pipeline 11 through the operation of the first water pump 14.
[0149] Here, the first connecting line 41 is shut off by operating the first valve V1, and the second connecting line 42 is also shut off.
[0150] Accordingly, the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 can be supplied to the condenser 53 by the operation of the first water pump 14.
[0151] Furthermore, in the battery cooling device 20, by operating the second valve V2, the coolant line 11 and the battery coolant line 21 are disconnected. Additionally, the second water pump 22 stops operating.
[0152] In other words, when the connection between the coolant line 11 and the battery coolant line 21 is disconnected by operating the second valve V2, the cooling device 10 forms a closed and sealed loop, and the coolant circulates independently along the coolant line 21.
[0153] In the air conditioning unit 50, each component operates to cool the interior of the vehicle. Accordingly, refrigerant circulates along refrigerant line 51.
[0154] Here, the refrigerant line 51 connecting the auxiliary condenser 54 and the evaporator 56 is connected by the operation of the first expansion valve 55. The refrigerant connection line 61 is disconnected by the operation of the second expansion valve 63.
[0155] Accordingly, the refrigerant through the auxiliary condenser 54 can circulate along the refrigerant line 51.
[0156] Here, the first expansion valve 55 can expand the refrigerant, so that the expanded refrigerant is supplied to the evaporator 56.
[0157] Condenser 53 condenses the refrigerant using the coolant flowing along the coolant line 11. Auxiliary condenser 54 can further condense the refrigerant introduced from condenser 53 by exchanging heat with outside air.
[0158] The refrigerant discharged from the auxiliary condenser 54 flows through the refrigerant line 51 to cool the interior of the vehicle, and passes in sequence through the first expansion valve 55, the evaporator 56, the compressor 59 and the condenser 53.
[0159] Here, the outside air flowing into the HVAC module 52 is cooled by the low-temperature refrigerant flowing into the evaporator 56 as it passes through the evaporator 56.
[0160] In this situation, a portion of the cool outside air passing through heater 52a is closed by door 52b, preventing outside air from passing through heater 52a. Consequently, the cool outside air flows directly into the vehicle's interior, thereby cooling the vehicle's interior.
[0161] On the other hand, the refrigerant, whose condensation volume increases as it passes through condenser 53 and auxiliary condenser 54 in sequence, can be expanded and supplied to evaporator 56, so that the refrigerant is evaporated at a lower temperature.
[0162] As a result, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, condenser 53 condenses the refrigerant, and auxiliary condenser 54 further condenses the refrigerant, which facilitates secondary cooling of the refrigerant.
[0163] In addition, the refrigerant used for secondary cooling can be evaporated at a lower temperature in the evaporator 56, thereby improving cooling performance and efficiency.
[0164] The refrigerant can cool the vehicle's interior in its cooling mode while repeating the above process.
[0165] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, reference will be made to Figure 5 This describes the operation of recovering waste heat from electrical components 15 in the vehicle's heating mode.
[0166] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the operational status of recovering waste heat from electrical components in the vehicle's heating mode within a thermal management system according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0167] refer to Figure 5 The thermal management system can recover waste heat from electrical components 15 and use the waste heat to heat the vehicle interior.
[0168] First, in the cooling unit 10, the first water pump 14 operates to circulate the coolant. In this case, the air conditioning unit 50 stops.
[0169] Here, the first connecting line 41 is connected by operating the first valve V1. At the same time, the second connecting line 42 is connected.
[0170] In addition, relative to the first connecting line 41, a portion of the coolant line 11 connected to the radiator 12 and a portion of the coolant line 11 connecting the radiator 12 and the reservoir 16 are shut off.
[0171] Here, the battery coolant line 21, except for the battery coolant line 21 connected to the quencher 30, is shut off by the operation of the second valve V2.
[0172] That is, the battery coolant line 21 connecting the second water pump 22, the battery module 24 and the first coolant heater 26 is shut off, and the battery cooling device 20 is deactivated.
[0173] In addition, a portion of the coolant stored in the reservoir 16 can circulate along the coolant line 11 via the connected supply line 17.
[0174] In this state, the coolant, whose temperature has been raised by the electrical component 15, is supplied to the heater 52a via the operation of the first water pump 14 along the first connecting line 41 without passing through the radiator 12.
[0175] Coolant discharged from heater 52a flows into cooler 30 along second connection line 42 and is introduced into electrical assembly 15 via battery coolant line 21 and coolant line 11 connected by operating second valve V2.
[0176] In other words, the coolant that has already passed through the electrical component 15 continues to circulate along the coolant line 11, the first connecting line 41, the second connecting line 42, and a portion of the battery coolant line 21, without passing through the radiator 12, and absorbs the waste heat of the electrical component 15, causing the coolant temperature to rise.
[0177] The cooled liquid, which has been heated, is supplied to the heater 52a via the first connecting line 41, without passing through the radiator 12.
[0178] The high-temperature coolant supplied to heater 52a exchanges heat with the outside air and is then introduced into coolant line 11 via second connecting line 42 and quencher 30 and a portion of battery coolant line 21, without passing through radiator 12.
[0179] Here, the switch door 52b is opened, allowing outside air flowing into the HVAC module 52 to pass through the heater 52a.
[0180] Accordingly, outside air introduced from the outside flows in at room temperature without being cooled as it passes through evaporator 56, which is not supplied with refrigerant. The introduced outside air can be heated to a high temperature as it passes through heater 52a and then flows into the vehicle, thereby heating the vehicle's interior.
[0181] Here, when the temperature of the coolant circulating along the first connecting line 41 is lower than the target temperature, the second coolant heater 43 can operate to heat the coolant circulating through the first connecting line 41.
[0182] On the other hand, when an air heater 52c is used in place of the second coolant heater 43, the air heater 52c can operate to heat the outside air flowing into the vehicle interior when the temperature of the outside air supplied to the heater 52a is lower than the target temperature.
[0183] In other words, the air heater 52c can operate selectively based on the temperature of the outside air flowing into the heater 52a.
[0184] Accordingly, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, waste heat generated in electrical component 15 can be recovered while repeating the above process, and the waste heat can be used for internal heating, thereby reducing power consumption and improving overall heating efficiency.
[0185] Meanwhile, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the operation of cooling the electrical component 15 while recovering waste heat from the electrical component 15 in vehicle heating mode will now be described.
[0186] First, in the cooling unit 10, the first water pump 14 operates to circulate the coolant. In this case, the air conditioning unit 50 stops.
[0187] Here, the first connecting line 41 is connected by operating the first valve V1, and the second connecting line 42 is connected.
[0188] In addition, the battery coolant line 21, except for the one connected to the quencher 30, is shut off by the operation of the second valve V2.
[0189] That is, the battery coolant line 21 connecting the second water pump 22, the battery module 24 and the first coolant heater 26 is shut off, and the battery cooling device 20 is deactivated.
[0190] In addition, a portion of the coolant stored in the reservoir 16 can circulate along the coolant line 11 via the connected supply line 17.
[0191] Here, when the electrical component 15 overheats, the first valve V1 is turned on relative to the first connecting line 41, connecting the coolant line 11 to the radiator 12.
[0192] In addition, the coolant line 11 connecting the radiator 12 and the reservoir 16 is connected, as is the coolant line 11 connecting the reservoir 16 and the second valve V2.
[0193] In this state, a portion of the coolant whose temperature has increased due to the electrical components 15 is supplied to the heater 52a via the operation of the first water pump 14 along the first connecting line 41 without passing through the radiator 12.
[0194] The coolant discharged from heater 52a flows into cooler 30 along second connecting line 42, and then flows into coolant line 11 through the connection part of battery coolant line 21.
[0195] In other words, a portion of the coolant that has already passed through the electrical component 15 continues to circulate along the coolant line 11, the first connecting line 41, the second connecting line 42, and a portion of the battery coolant line 21, without passing through the radiator 12, and absorbs the waste heat from the electrical component 15, causing the coolant temperature to rise.
[0196] Accordingly, a portion of the already heated coolant is supplied to the heater 52a through the connected first connection line 41, instead of through the radiator 12.
[0197] The high-temperature coolant supplied to heater 52a exchanges heat with the outside air and is then introduced into coolant line 11 through second connecting line 42 and quencher 30 and a portion of battery coolant line 21, without passing through radiator 12.
[0198] Here, the switch door 52b is opened, allowing outside air flowing into the HVAC module 52 to pass through the heater 52a.
[0199] Accordingly, outside air introduced from the outside flows in at room temperature without being cooled as it passes through evaporator 56, which is not supplied with refrigerant. The introduced outside air can be heated to a high temperature as it passes through heater 52a and then flows into the vehicle, thereby heating the vehicle's interior.
[0200] Meanwhile, the remaining coolant not supplied to heater 52a is cooled by radiator 12.
[0201] The cooled coolant, together with the coolant flowing into the coolant line 11 through a portion of the battery coolant line 21, can recover waste heat as it passes through the electrical component 15 and effectively cool the electrical component 15.
[0202] When the electrical component 15 overheats, the first valve V1 can connect the coolant line 11 connected to the radiator 12, so that a portion of the coolant passing through the electrical component 15 flows into the first connecting line 41, while the remainder of the coolant flows into the radiator 12.
[0203] As a result, some of the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 can be supplied to the electrical component 15, thereby preventing the electrical component 15 from overheating.
[0204] Therefore, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, waste heat generated in electrical component 15 can be recovered and used for internal heating, thereby reducing power consumption and improving overall heating efficiency.
[0205] Meanwhile, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, some coolant can be introduced into the radiator 12 by the operation control of the first valve V1 configured to distribute the flow rate, so as to be cooled and then supplied to the electrical component 15, thereby effectively cooling the electrical component 15 and ensuring the cooling performance of the electrical component 15.
[0206] Now refer to Figure 6 The operation describes the recovery of waste heat from electrical components 15 in the vehicle's heating and dehumidification modes.
[0207] Figure 6 The diagram shows the operating status of the vehicle's heating and dehumidification modes in the thermal management system of a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0208] First, in the cooling device 10, the first water pump 14 is operated to circulate the coolant.
[0209] Here, the first connecting line 41 is connected by operating the first valve V1. At the same time, the second connecting line 42 is connected.
[0210] In addition, a portion of the coolant line 11 connected to the radiator 12 and a portion of the coolant line 11 connecting the radiator 12 and the reservoir 16 are shut off relative to the first connecting line 41.
[0211] Here, the battery coolant line 21, except for the battery coolant line 21 connected to the quencher 30, is shut off by the operation of the second valve V2.
[0212] That is, the battery coolant line 21 connecting the second water pump 22, the battery module 24 and the first coolant heater 26 is shut off, and the battery cooling device 20 is deactivated.
[0213] In addition, a portion of the coolant stored in the reservoir 16 can circulate along the coolant line 11 via the connected supply line 17.
[0214] In this state, the coolant, whose temperature has been raised by the electrical component 15, is supplied to the heater 52a via the operation of the first water pump 14 along the first connecting line 41 without passing through the radiator 12.
[0215] Coolant discharged from heater 52a flows into cooler 30 along second connection line 42 and is introduced into electrical assembly 15 via battery coolant line 21 and coolant line 11 connected by operating second valve V2.
[0216] In other words, the coolant that has already passed through the electrical component 15 continues to circulate along the coolant line 11, the first connecting line 41, the second connecting line 42, and a portion of the battery coolant line 21, without passing through the radiator 12, and absorbs the waste heat of the electrical component 15, causing the coolant temperature to rise.
[0217] The already heated coolant is supplied to the heater 52a through the connected first connection line 41, instead of through the radiator 12.
[0218] The high-temperature coolant supplied to heater 52a exchanges heat with the outside air and is then introduced into coolant line 11 through second connecting line 42 and quencher 30 and a portion of battery coolant line 21, without passing through radiator 12.
[0219] Here, the switch door 52b is opened, allowing outside air flowing into the HVAC module 52 to pass through the heater 52a.
[0220] Accordingly, outside air introduced from the outside can be converted to a high temperature state when passing through heater 52a and flow into the vehicle, thereby heating the interior of the vehicle.
[0221] Here, when the temperature of the coolant circulating along the first connecting line 41 is lower than the target temperature, the second coolant heater 43 can operate to heat the coolant circulating through the first connecting line 41.
[0222] On the other hand, when an air heater 52c is used in place of the second coolant heater 43, the air heater 52c can operate to heat the outside air flowing into the vehicle interior when the temperature of the outside air supplied to the heater 52a is lower than the target temperature.
[0223] In other words, the air heater 52c can operate selectively based on the temperature of the external air flowing into the heater 52a.
[0224] Accordingly, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, waste heat generated in electrical component 15 can be recovered while repeating the above process, and the waste heat can be used for internal heating, thereby reducing power consumption and improving overall heating efficiency.
[0225] Meanwhile, in the air conditioning unit 50, each component operates to dehumidify the interior of the vehicle.
[0226] Condenser 53 condenses the refrigerant using the coolant flowing along the coolant line 11. Auxiliary condenser 54 can further condense the refrigerant introduced from condenser 53 by exchanging heat with outside air.
[0227] Here, the refrigerant line 51 connecting the auxiliary condenser 54 and the evaporator 56 is connected by the operation of the first expansion valve 55. The refrigerant connection line 61 is disconnected by the operation of the second expansion valve 63.
[0228] Accordingly, the refrigerant through the auxiliary condenser 54 can circulate along the refrigerant line 51.
[0229] The first expansion valve 55 expands the refrigerant supplied from the auxiliary condenser 54 to supply the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator 56. The refrigerant that has passed through the evaporator 56 is then supplied to the compressor 59.
[0230] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from compressor 59 can be supplied to compressor 53.
[0231] Here, the switch door 52b is opened, allowing outside air flowing into the HVAC module 52 and passing through the evaporator 56 to pass through the heater 52a.
[0232] In other words, the outside air flowing into the HVAC module 52 is dehumidified by the low-temperature refrigerant flowing into the evaporator 56 as it passes through the evaporator 56.
[0233] Now refer to Figure 7 Describes the operation of heating battery module 24.
[0234] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the operational state of raising the battery module temperature in the thermal management system of a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
[0235] refer to Figure 7 The cooling device 10, heating circuit 40, and air conditioning device 50 are stopped.
[0236] Here, the connection between the battery coolant line 21 and the coolant line 11 is disconnected by the operation of the second valve V2.
[0237] In other words, in the battery cooling device 20, the battery coolant pipeline 21 connecting the second water pump 22, the battery module 24 and the first coolant heater 26 is connected.
[0238] In this state, the coolant circulates along the battery coolant line 21 through the operation of the second water pump 22.
[0239] Here, the first coolant heater 26 operates to heat the coolant supplied to the battery module 24 along the connected battery coolant line 21.
[0240] Accordingly, the coolant circulating in the battery coolant line 21 increases in temperature as it passes through the first coolant heater 26. The coolant, whose temperature increases as it passes through the first coolant heater 26, can then be supplied to the battery module 24 to raise the temperature of the battery module 24.
[0241] As a result, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the temperature of the battery module 24 can be rapidly increased while repeating the above process, thereby effectively managing the temperature of the battery module 24.
[0242] Therefore, as described above, the thermal management system of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can adjust the temperature of the battery module 24 according to the vehicle mode by using a cooler 30 that exchanges heat between the coolant and the refrigerant, and can heat the interior of the vehicle by using the coolant, thereby simplifying the entire system.
[0243] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, heating efficiency can also be improved by recovering waste heat from electrical component 15 and using it for internal heating.
[0244] Furthermore, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the performance of the battery module 24 can be optimized by effectively controlling the temperature of the battery module 24, and the total driving range of the vehicle can be increased by effectively managing the battery module 24.
[0245] In addition, it can simplify the entire system, thereby reducing manufacturing costs, lightening weight, and improving space utilization.
[0246] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the controller is connected to at least one element of the vehicle's thermal management system to control its operation.
[0247] Additionally, the terms "controller," "control unit," or "control device" refer to a hardware device including a memory and a processor configured to execute one or more steps interpreted as an algorithmic structure. The memory stores the algorithmic steps, and the processor executes these steps to perform one or more processes according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention. A controller according to exemplary embodiments of the invention can be implemented using non-volatile memory and a processor configured to store algorithms for controlling the operation of various components of a vehicle, or data regarding software commands for executing the algorithms, and the processor is configured to perform the aforementioned operations using the data stored in the memory. The memory and processor can be separate chips. Alternatively, the memory and processor can be integrated into a single chip. The processor can be implemented as one or more processors.
[0248] The controller or control unit may be at least one microprocessor operated by a predetermined program, which may include a series of commands for performing the methods disclosed in the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention described above.
[0249] The present invention described above can also be implemented as computer-readable code on a computer-readable recording medium. A computer-readable recording medium is any data storage device capable of storing data, which can then be read by a computer system. Examples of computer-readable recording media include hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), silicon disk drives (SDDs), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), CD-ROMs, magnetic tapes, floppy disks, optical data storage devices, etc., and are implemented as carrier waves (e.g., transmitted over the Internet).
[0250] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, each of the above operations can be performed by a controller, and the controller can be configured by multiple controllers or a single integrated controller.
[0251] For ease of interpretation and precise definition of the appended claims, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “front,” “back,” “inner side,” “outer side,” “inward,” “outer,” “internal,” “external,” “inner side,” “outer side,” “forward,” and “backward” are used to describe the features in relation to the exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It will be further understood that the term “connection” or its derivatives refer to both direct and indirect connections.
[0252] The foregoing description of specific exemplary embodiments of the present invention is for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise embodiments disclosed, and it will be apparent that various modifications and variations can be made in accordance with the foregoing teachings. The exemplary embodiments were chosen and described to explain the specific principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to implement and utilize various exemplary embodiments of the invention, as well as their different alternatives and modifications. The scope of the invention is intended to be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A thermal management system of a vehicle, the system comprising: a cooling device including a radiator, a first water pump, a first valve, and a reservoir tank connected by a coolant line, and circulating coolant in the coolant line to cool at least one electrical component disposed in the coolant line; a battery cooling device including a battery coolant line connected to the coolant line by a second valve, and a second water pump and a battery module connected by the battery coolant line to circulate coolant through the battery module; a chiller disposed on the battery coolant line between the second valve and the battery module, and connected to a refrigerant line of an air conditioning device by a refrigerant connection line to adjust a temperature of the coolant by heat exchange between the coolant supplied to the battery coolant line and a refrigerant selectively supplied from the air conditioning device through the refrigerant connection line; and a heating circuit including a heater connected to the coolant line and the chiller by a first connection line and a second connection line to supply the coolant having a temperature increased while passing through the at least one electrical component; wherein the reservoir tank is disposed on the coolant line between the radiator and the second valve, and connected to the coolant line connecting the second valve and the first water pump by a supply line.
2. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The supply line is connected to a portion of the reservoir tank and is configured to bypass the second valve. 3.The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, a first end of the first connection line is connected to the coolant line by the first valve, and a second end of the first connection line is connected to the heater; a first end of the second connection line is connected to the heater, and a second end of the second connection line is connected to the chiller; the heater is disposed inside a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning module included in the air conditioning device.
4. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The battery cooling device further includes a first coolant heater disposed on the battery coolant line between the battery module and the chiller. 5.The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 4, wherein, when the battery module is heated, the connection of the battery coolant line to the coolant line is disconnected by operating the second valve; coolant is circulated along the battery coolant line by operating the second water pump; the first coolant heater operates to heat the coolant supplied to the battery module along the battery coolant line.
6. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The air conditioning device includes: a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning module including an evaporator connected to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning module by a refrigerant line, and a door configured to control external air selectively introduced to the heater by the evaporator according to a cooling mode, a heating mode, and a heating / dehumidifying mode of the vehicle; a condenser connected to the coolant line to circulate coolant through the condenser to exchange heat between the coolant and a refrigerant supplied through the refrigerant line connected to the condenser; a compressor connected between the evaporator and the condenser by the refrigerant line; a sub-condenser disposed on the refrigerant line between the condenser and the evaporator; a first expansion valve disposed on the refrigerant line between the sub-condenser and the evaporator; and a second expansion valve disposed on the refrigerant line between the condenser and the sub-condenser. a second expansion valve provided on the refrigerant connection line.
7. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 6, wherein a first end portion of the refrigerant connection line is connected to a refrigerant line between the sub-condenser and the first expansion valve; a second end portion of the refrigerant connection line is connected to a refrigerant line between the evaporator and the compressor.
8. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, Each of the chiller and the condenser is a water-cooled heat exchanger, and the sub-condenser is an air-cooled heat exchanger.
9. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 6, wherein, The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning module further includes an air heater provided between the heater and the evaporator to selectively heat outside air flowing into the heater.
10. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 9, wherein, When the temperature of the coolant supplied to the heater is lower than a target temperature for interior heating, the air heater operates to increase the temperature of the outside air flowing into the heater.
11. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 6, wherein when the battery module is cooled by using the refrigerant, in the cooling device, the coolant is circulated in the coolant line by operating the first water pump, and the supply line is connected; the first connection line and the second connection line are disconnected by operation of the first valve; in the battery cooling device, the coolant is circulated in the battery coolant line by operating the second water pump; by operating the second valve, each of the cooling device and the battery cooling device forms an independent closed and sealed circuit in which the coolant is circulated; in the air conditioning device, the refrigerant connection line is connected by operation of the second expansion valve; the second expansion valve expands the refrigerant supplied to the refrigerant connection line, and supplies the expanded refrigerant to the chiller.
12. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 6, wherein when waste heat is recovered from at least one electrical component in a heating and dehumidifying mode of the vehicle, the first connection line and the second connection line are connected by operation of the first valve; in the cooling device, a portion of the coolant line connected to the radiator and a portion of the coolant line connecting the radiator and the reservoir are disconnected with respect to the first connection line; the battery coolant line other than a portion of the battery coolant line connected to the chiller is disconnected by operation of the second valve; the coolant temperature-increased by the at least one electrical component is supplied to the heater along the first connection line by operating the first water pump, without passing through the radiator; the coolant discharged from the heater flows into the chiller along the second connection line, and flows into the at least one electrical component via the battery coolant line and the coolant line connected by operating the second valve; a portion of the coolant stored in the reservoir is circulated along the connected coolant line through the connected supply line; in the air conditioning device, the refrigerant connection line is disconnected by operation of the second expansion valve, and the refrigerant is circulated along the refrigerant line by operating the compressor.
13. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein when the at least one electrical component and the battery module are cooled by using the coolant cooled in the radiator, the first connection line and the second connection line are shut off by operation of the first valve; by operating the second valve, the battery coolant line is connected to the coolant line; by operating the second valve and the second water pump, the coolant cooled by the radiator and stored in the coolant reservoir is supplied to the battery module while circulating along the battery coolant line; by operating the first water pump, the coolant circulating through the battery cooling device is supplied to the at least one electrical component while circulating along the coolant line; a portion of the coolant stored in the coolant reservoir is circulated along the coolant line through the on supply line. 14.The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, when recovering waste heat from the at least one electrical component in a dehumidification mode of the vehicle, the first connection line and the second connection line are turned on by operation of the first valve; in the cooling device, a portion of the coolant line connected to the radiator and a portion of the coolant line connecting the radiator and the coolant reservoir are shut off with respect to the first connection line; the battery coolant line other than the portion of the battery coolant line connected to the chiller is shut off by operation of the second valve; the coolant temperature-increased by the at least one electrical component is supplied to the heater along the first connection line by operating the first water pump without passing through the radiator; the coolant discharged from the heater flows into the chiller along the second connection line and flows into the at least one electrical component via the battery coolant line and the coolant line turned on by operating the second valve; a portion of the coolant stored in the coolant reservoir is circulated along the turned-on coolant line through the on supply line.
15. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 14, wherein, when the at least one electrical component is overheated, the first valve is configured to turn on the coolant line connected to the radiator to cause a portion of the coolant passing through the at least one electrical component to flow into the first connection line, and the remaining portion of the coolant to flow into the radiator.
16. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, the first valve is a three-way valve configured to distribute flow, and the second valve is a four-way valve.
17. The thermal management system of a vehicle of claim 1, wherein, the electrical component includes a power control unit, a motor, an inverter, or an on-board charger.
18. The thermal management system of a vehicle of claim 1, wherein, the supply line is connected to the coolant line when the coolant is circulated to the coolant line by operating the first water pump.
19. The thermal management system of a vehicle of claim 1, wherein, the heating circuit further includes a second coolant heater provided on the first connection line.
20. The thermal management system of a vehicle according to claim 19, wherein, when the temperature of the coolant supplied to the heater through the first connection line is lower than a target temperature for interior heating, the second coolant heater operates to increase the temperature of outside air flowing into the heater. the second coolant heater is provided on the first connection line.
Citation Information
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