Energy storage device, cold charging and storing system, cold storing and supplying system and cold chain transport box

Abstract

The application provides an energy storage device, a cold charging and storing system, a cold storing and supplying system and a cold chain transport box with the energy storage device. The energy storage device comprises a shell, an inner tube, a plurality of heat conducting sheets and a closed energy storage cavity. The inner tube is arranged in the shell, the heat conducting sheets are arranged in the energy storage cavity, the length of the heat conducting sheets decreases along the circumference of the inner tube, the arrangement density of the heat conducting sheets decreases along the circumference of the inner tube, and / or the thickness of the heat conducting sheets decreases along the circumference of the inner tube.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of cold storage technology, and in particular to an energy storage device capable of rapid heat exchange and preventing deformation or breakage, as well as a cold storage charging system, a cold storage supply system, and a cold chain transport box having the same. Background Technology

[0002] As living standards improve, there are increasingly more applications requiring cooling or heating. Installing refrigeration units in all these applications would be both costly and energy-intensive.

[0003] For example, cold chain logistics generally refers to a systematic project that ensures refrigerated and frozen foods are kept at a specified low temperature throughout all stages from production, storage, transportation, and sales to consumption, in order to guarantee food quality and reduce food spoilage. Traditional cold chain transport vehicles use gasoline or battery packs to power the refrigeration unit, which then cools the refrigerated containers. The refrigeration unit needs to operate throughout the entire transportation process, resulting in high energy consumption and low utilization.

[0004] To conserve energy and protect the environment, energy storage devices are installed on refrigerated transport vehicles to store cold at the point of origin. Throughout the transportation process, the cold storage unit supplies cooling to the refrigerated containers, reducing energy consumption. However, the inventors discovered through research that the phase change rate or direction of the cold storage liquid inside existing cold storage units is uncontrollable during the cold storage process. This can easily lead to the risk of deformation or rupture of the cold storage unit due to a sudden increase in local phase change pressure.

[0005] In view of this, it is necessary to provide an improved energy storage device and a cold storage system, a cold storage supply system and a cold chain transport box having the same, in order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an energy storage device that can rapidly exchange heat and prevent rupture, as well as a cold storage system, a cold storage supply system, and a cold chain transport box having the same.

[0007] To achieve one of the above-mentioned objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] An energy storage device, comprising:

[0009] shell;

[0010] An inner tube is inserted inside the outer shell, and a closed energy storage cavity is formed between the outer shell and the inner tube;

[0011] Several heat-conducting plates are located inside the energy storage cavity;

[0012] Within a portion of the energy storage cavity, the length of the heat-conducting sheet decreases along the circumference of the inner tube, and / or the density of the heat-conducting sheet decreases along the circumference of the inner tube, and / or the thickness of the heat-conducting sheet decreases along the circumference of the inner tube.

[0013] Furthermore, the heat-conducting sheet includes:

[0014] At least two heat transfer plates are in contact with both the inner tube and the outer shell, and the heat transfer plates divide the energy storage cavity into at least two sub-energy storage cavities;

[0015] A plurality of heat sinks are in contact with the inner tube and located within the sub-energy storage cavity, and there is a gap between the heat sinks and the outer shell;

[0016] The included angle α between at least two adjacent heat transfer fins is in the range of 90°≤α≤180°, the length of the heat sink located between the two heat transfer fins decreases along the circumference of the inner tube, and / or the arrangement density of the heat sink decreases along the circumference of the inner tube, and / or the thickness of the heat conduction plate decreases along the circumference of the inner tube.

[0017] Furthermore, along the circumference of the inner tube, the included angle between adjacent heat-conducting fins is the same, and the length of the heat sink decreases; or, along the circumference of the inner tube, the length of the heat sink is the same, and the included angle between adjacent heat-conducting fins increases; or, along the circumference of the inner tube, the length of the heat sink decreases, and the included angle between adjacent heat-conducting fins increases.

[0018] Furthermore, the heat-conducting plate includes two heat transfer plates extending from the inner tube to opposite sides, which divide the energy storage cavity into two symmetrically arranged sub-energy storage cavities; the heat dissipation plate located in the two sub-energy storage cavities is symmetrically arranged relative to the heat transfer plate.

[0019] Furthermore, the outer wall of the housing has markings indicating the direction of the reduction.

[0020] Furthermore, the heat-conducting plate includes a heat transfer plate that contacts both the inner tube and the outer shell, and a heat dissipation plate that contacts the inner tube. The heat transfer plate divides the energy storage cavity into at least two sub-energy storage cavities. The heat dissipation plate is located inside the sub-energy storage cavity, and there is a gap between the heat dissipation plate and the outer shell. The energy storage device also includes a connecting channel that connects at least two of the sub-energy storage cavities.

[0021] Furthermore, the heat-conducting plate includes a heat transfer plate that contacts both the inner tube and the outer shell, and a heat dissipation plate that contacts the inner tube, with a gap between the heat dissipation plate and the outer shell; the thickness of the heat transfer plate is greater than the thickness of the heat dissipation plate.

[0022] Furthermore, the energy storage device also includes energy storage material located within the energy storage chamber.

[0023] A cold storage system includes:

[0024] Cooling, wherein the cooling includes a cooling tube and a fluid medium located inside the cooling tube;

[0025] In the aforementioned energy storage device, the cooling tube is located inside the inner tube, and the outer wall of the cooling tube is in contact with the inner wall of the inner tube; or the cooling tube is connected to the inner tube.

[0026] The cooling unit includes a compressor, a condenser connected to the compressor, and a throttling element connected to the condenser. The two ends of the cooling tube are connected to the throttling element and the compressor, respectively.

[0027] Alternatively, the cooling unit includes a cold source containing a refrigerant, with both ends of the refrigerant tube connected to the cold source, and the cold source and the refrigerant tube together forming a circulation channel for the refrigerant.

[0028] A cold storage and cooling system, comprising:

[0029] The aforementioned energy storage device;

[0030] A cooling unit includes a cooling pipe located inside an inner pipe, with the outer wall of the cooling pipe fitting against the inner wall of the inner pipe; or the cooling pipe is connected to the inner pipe.

[0031] A cold chain transport box, the cold chain transport box including the above-mentioned energy storage device.

[0032] The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: The energy storage device of the present invention optimizes the length, thickness and density of the heat-conducting sheet, making it smaller along the circumference of the inner tube. Consequently, the amount of cold or heat obtained by the energy storage liquid is also reduced, thus achieving an ordered phase change. This avoids deformation or rupture of the energy storage device caused by increased internal pressure due to disordered phase change. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an energy storage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded view;

[0035] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the ends of the outer tube, inner tube and heat-conducting plate of the energy storage device;

[0036] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the end face;

[0037] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view along the AA direction;

[0038] Figure 6 Another preferred embodiment of the energy storage device is in Figure 4 A breakdown diagram of the viewpoint;

[0039] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the relative order of points in an energy storage device;

[0040] Figure 8 Another preferred embodiment of the energy storage device is in Figure 4 A breakdown diagram of the viewpoint;

[0041] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view along the BB direction;

[0042] Figure 10 Another embodiment is in Figure 9 A diagram illustrating the perspective;

[0043] Figure 11 This is an exploded view of an energy storage device according to another embodiment;

[0044] Figure 12 This is an exploded view of an energy storage device according to another embodiment;

[0045] Figure 13 Another preferred embodiment of the energy storage device is in Figure 4 A breakdown diagram of the viewpoint;

[0046] Figure 14 Another preferred embodiment of the energy storage device is in Figure 4 A breakdown diagram of the viewpoint;

[0047] Figure 15 Another preferred embodiment of the energy storage device is in Figure 4 A breakdown diagram of the viewpoint;

[0048] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of an energy storage device according to another embodiment;

[0049] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 Exploded view;

[0050] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 Schematic diagram of the ends of the outer tube, inner tube, and heat-conducting plate.

[0051] Among them, 100-energy storage device, 1-outer shell, 11-energy storage chamber, 111-sub-energy storage chamber, 12-outer tube, 13-end cap, 131-injection port, 132-sealing element, 133-through hole, 134-sleeve, 14-connecting channel, 14'-auxiliary connecting channel, 2-inner tube, 3-heat conducting plate, 31-heat transfer plate, 32-heat dissipation plate, 4-cooling pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0052] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present invention, and any structural, methodological, or functional modifications made by those skilled in the art based on these embodiments are included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0053] In the various illustrations of this invention, for ease of illustration, certain dimensions of structures or parts may be exaggerated relative to other structures or parts; therefore, only the basic structure of the subject matter of this invention is used to illustrate the invention.

[0054] Please see Figures 1 to 18 As shown, the energy storage device 100 of the present invention includes an outer shell 1, an inner tube 2 passing through the outer shell 1, a closed energy storage cavity 11 formed by the outer shell 1 and the inner tube 2 for storing energy storage materials, and a heat-conducting plate 3 located in the energy storage cavity 11; the heat-conducting plate 3 is in contact with at least one of the outer shell 1 or the inner tube 2 to improve the heat exchange rate.

[0055] The shape of the outer shell 1 is not limited and can be adapted to meet needs or installation space. The outer shell 1 is a completely sealed shell, or the outer shell 1 has an opening and a sealing structure that seals the opening; as long as it can seal and store a certain amount of energy storage material, it is acceptable.

[0056] For example Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the outer shell 1 includes an outer tube 12 and end caps 13 that close both ends of the outer tube 12. The end caps 13 can be any structure that closes both ends of the outer tube 12, and the end caps 13 and the outer tube 12 can be separately or integrally arranged.

[0057] The cross-sectional shape of the outer tube 12 is circular, polygonal, or any other arbitrary shape, including but not limited to triangles, squares, hexagons, trapezoids, etc.

[0058] The end cap 13 is provided with a through hole 133 for the inner tube 2 to pass through. After the inner tube 2 is placed in the through hole 133, the connection between the end cap 13 and the inner tube 2 is sealed by welding or other means. This process is convenient for manufacturing. At the same time, the end cap 13 and / or the outer tube 12 are provided with an injection port 131 for injecting energy storage material into the energy storage chamber 11. After the energy storage material is injected, the injection port 131 is sealed by a sealing element 132.

[0059] The energy storage device 100 also includes an energy storage material located within the energy storage chamber 11. The energy storage material is preferably a phase change material, which can store or release a large amount of energy during the phase change process. During the phase change, the volume change of the energy storage material exerts pressure on the outer shell 1. Simultaneously, the compression of the gas within the energy storage chamber 11 also exerts pressure on the outer shell 1. Considering the pressure that the energy storage device 100 can withstand, the amount of energy storage material added is such that, when the energy storage material is in a liquid state, its volume does not exceed 80% of the volume of the energy storage chamber 11, ensuring that the energy storage device 100 will not collapse due to volume increase during the phase change.

[0060] The cross-sectional shape of the inner tube 2 can be circular, polygonal, or any other arbitrary shape. The cross-sectional shape of the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 12 can be the same, making their relative positions readily apparent. Alternatively, the cross-sectional shapes of the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 12 can be different, increasing the range of choices and allowing for the optimal shape combination based on actual conditions.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, both ends of the inner tube 2 are exposed outward from the end cap 13, facilitating the welding of the inner tube 2 to the outer shell 1. Specifically, the through hole 133 of the end cap 13 is fitted onto the inner tube 2, and then the end cap 13 and the inner tube 2 are welded to the outside of the end cap 13.

[0062] In other embodiments, such as Figure 10 As shown, an inwardly extending sleeve 134 can also be provided on the end cap 13, with the inner tube 2 connected to the sleeve 134. In this case, the inner tube 2 is located inside the outer shell 1. Of course, the sleeve 134 can also extend outward from the end cap 13.

[0063] The heat-conducting plate 3 can increase the heat transfer area, thereby improving the heat exchange rate. Therefore, the heat exchange rate within the energy storage cavity 11 can be changed by adjusting the structure and density of the heat-conducting plate 3. The following will provide a detailed explanation of the relative positions of the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 12, as well as the specific structure and arrangement of the heat-conducting plate 3.

[0064] The heat-conducting plate 3 includes a heat transfer plate 31 that is in contact with both the inner tube 2 and the outer shell 1. The heat transfer plate 31 supports and fixes the inner tube 2 while also enabling rapid heat exchange between the inner tube 2 and the outer shell 1. Thus, the inner tube 2 and the outer shell 1 exchange heat with the energy storage material in the energy storage cavity 11 from their inner and outer sides, respectively, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency.

[0065] For example, when the inner tube 2 is connected to the cooling unit, the cooled inner tube 2 exchanges heat with the outer shell 1 through the heat transfer plate 31, which lowers the temperature of the outer shell 1. Then, the outer shell 1 and the inner shell exchange heat with the energy storage material at the same time, which improves the cooling rate of the energy storage material.

[0066] In one specific embodiment, the heat transfer plate 31 extends outward from the inner tube 2. "Extending outward from the inside" means that the heat transfer plate 31 has a tendency to extend outward from the inside, including but not limited to extending outward radially along the inner tube 2.

[0067] Furthermore, the heat transfer plate 31 includes an inner connecting portion connected to the inner tube 2 and / or an outer connecting portion connected to the outer shell 1, improving the connection strength and heat transfer performance between the heat transfer plate 31 and the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 12. Along the circumference of the inner tube 2, the thickness of the inner connecting portion decreases from the middle to both sides, enhancing the connection strength and heat transfer effect; and the inner connecting portion has an inner side surface, the outer wall at the connection point between the inner tube 2 and the heat transfer plate 31 has the same shape as the inner side surface, and the outer wall is tightly connected to the inner side surface. Along the circumference of the inner tube 2, the thickness of the outer connecting portion decreases from the middle to both sides, enhancing the connection strength and heat transfer effect; and the outer connecting portion has an outer side surface, the inner wall at the connection point between the outer shell 1 and the heat transfer plate 31 has the same shape as the outer side surface, and the inner wall is tightly connected to the outer side surface.

[0068] The heat transfer plate 31 can be in the form of a sheet, an arc, or a spiral. A sheet shape is preferred as it facilitates manufacturing, especially when the inner tube 2, the heat transfer plate 31, and the outer shell 1 are integrally formed, significantly reducing the manufacturing difficulty. After being cut along the axial direction perpendicular to the inner tube 2, the cross-section of the heat transfer plate 31 is rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, arc-shaped, etc.

[0069] Taking a sheet as an example, the thickness of the heat transfer sheet 31 is not less than 1.5mm, preferably between 1.5mm and 2mm. The heat transfer sheet 31 has sufficient strength to support and fix the inner tube 2. At the same time, the thermal resistance of the heat transfer sheet 31 of this thickness is small, which can effectively reduce the thermal attenuation of the heat transfer sheet 31 and ensure effective heat transfer between the outer tube 12 and the inner tube 2.

[0070] As can be seen from the above, the more heat transfer plates 31 there are, the faster the heat exchange speed of the entire energy storage device 100. The number of heat transfer plates 31 is calculated based on their extension direction relative to the inner tube 2; that is, heat transfer plates 31 extending in different directions from the inner tube 2 are considered two different heat transfer plates 31. It is not directly calculated based on the connection point between the heat transfer plates 31.

[0071] The inventors discovered that when at least two heat transfer plates 31 are included, the heat transfer plates 31 divide the energy storage cavity 11 into at least two sub-energy storage cavities 111. During use, when the energy storage material in the sub-energy storage cavity 111 undergoes a phase change and volume change, it can cause the outer shell 1 surrounding the sub-energy storage cavity to deform or crack, affecting its use and aesthetics; or it can cause the heat transfer plates 31 surrounding the sub-energy storage cavity to deform or break, affecting the heat exchange rate.

[0072] To address this technical problem, the energy storage device 100 further includes a connecting channel 14 that connects at least two of the sub-energy storage chambers 111. The connecting channel 14 connects the sub-energy storage chambers 111. When the energy storage material undergoes a phase change and expands in volume upon absorbing cold or heat (e.g., changing from liquid to solid), the liquid energy storage material can flow through the connecting channel 14 into adjacent sub-energy storage chambers 111, releasing pressure in individual sub-energy storage spaces and preventing the energy storage device 100 from deforming or bursting.

[0073] Specifically, the connecting channel 14 is located between the heat transfer plate 31 and the inner tube 2, or the connecting channel 14 is located between the heat transfer plate 31 and the outer shell 2; or the connecting channel 14 passes through the heat transfer plate 31, that is, the connecting channel 14 is disposed inside the heat transfer plate 31.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the heat transfer plate 31 extends axially along the inner tube 2, and the connecting channel 14 is located between at least one end of the heat transfer plate 31 along the axial direction of the inner tube 2 and the inner tube 2; and / or the connecting channel 14 is located between at least one end of the heat transfer plate 31 along the axial direction of the inner tube 2 and the outer shell 1. This design greatly reduces the processing difficulty, especially in the energy storage device 100 in which the inner tube 2, the heat transfer plate 31, and the outer tube 12 are integrally formed. After forming, a portion of the heat transfer plate 31 can be removed from at least one end along the axial direction of the inner tube 2 to form the connecting channel 14, making the process simple and feasible.

[0075] Of course, the connecting channel 14 can also be located at the radial edge of the heat transfer plate 31, including two cases: the connecting channel 14 is located at the edge adjacent to the inner tube 2 of the heat transfer plate 31, in which case the connecting channel 14 is located between the heat transfer plate 31 and the inner tube 2; or, the connecting channel 14 is located at the edge adjacent to the outer tube 12 of the heat transfer plate 31, in which case the connecting channel 14 is located between the heat transfer plate 31 and the outer tube 12.

[0076] Alternatively, the connecting channel 14 may also penetrate the heat transfer plate 31 at the middle position of the heat transfer plate 31.

[0077] Furthermore, the heat-conducting plate 3 also includes at least one heat sink 32 located within the sub-energy storage cavity 111, which can further improve the heat exchange rate. The heat sink 32 is connected to the inner tube 2, and there is a gap between the heat sink 32 and the outer shell 1; or the heat sink 32 is connected to the outer shell 1, and there is a gap between the heat sink 32 and the inner tube 31.

[0078] The only structural difference between the heat sink 32 and the heat transfer plate 31 is that the thickness of the heat sink 32 is less than that of the heat transfer plate 31. This ensures that the heat exchange speed is improved without occupying too much of the energy storage cavity 11, while also reducing weight and cost.

[0079] The heat sink 32 has a gap with the outer shell 1 or the inner tube 2 to ensure that the flow path of the energy storage material in the energy storage cavity 11 is unobstructed and to reduce the flow resistance of the energy storage material.

[0080] Preferably, an auxiliary connecting channel 14' is provided on the heat sink 32 at a position corresponding to the connecting channel 14 to ensure unobstructed flow of the energy storage material. "Corresponding position" refers to the position where the connecting channel 14 is mapped onto the heat sink 32 along the circumference of the inner tube 2, allowing the fluid medium to quickly pass through the adjacent connecting channel 14 and the auxiliary connecting channel 14', thereby increasing the flow rate.

[0081] Specifically, along the axial direction of the inner tube 2, at least one end of the heat transfer plate 31 and the heat sink 32 is located inside the outer shell 1, that is, the outer shell 1 extends beyond the ends of the heat transfer plate 31 and the heat sink 32. Preferably, the heat transfer plate 31 and the heat sink 32 are flush with the same end along the axial direction of the inner tube 2 and have a gap with the outer shell 1. This gap forms the connecting channel 14, through which the energy storage material in the different sub-energy storage chambers 111 flows.

[0082] In one specific embodiment, the outer casing 1 includes an outer tube 12 and end caps 13 connected to both ends of the outer tube 12. The inner tube 2 extends axially along the outer tube 12, and both ends of the inner tube 2 are exposed outward from the end caps 13. The heat transfer plate 31 contacts the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 12 at both ends radially along the inner tube 2, respectively. There is a gap between the ends of the heat transfer plate 31 and the heat dissipation plate 32 along the axial direction of the inner tube 2 and the end caps 13, and this gap constitutes the connecting channel 14.

[0083] refer to Figures 1-4 As shown, several heat transfer plates 31 are evenly distributed along the circumference of the inner tube 2, the inner tube 2 is subjected to balanced forces, and the heat distribution on the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 12 is uniform, avoiding some areas from being too cold while other areas are too hot.

[0084] Along the circumference of the inner tube 2, a plurality of heat dissipation fins 32 are evenly arranged in each of the sub-energy storage chambers 111, resulting in a relatively uniform temperature distribution within the energy storage chamber 11. In this case, energy storage materials with minimal volume change during heat absorption or release are preferred, such as antifreeze with a low freezing point or energy storage materials with a high boiling point. When the energy storage material undergoes a small volume change, it flows through the connecting channel 14 to adjacent sub-energy storage chambers 111, releasing pressure and preventing deformation or rupture of the energy storage device 100.

[0085] Specifically, the heat-conducting plate 3 includes three heat transfer plates 31 and two heat sinks 32 located in each of the sub-energy storage cavities 111. The number of heat transfer plates 31 and heat sinks 32 is reasonably set, which improves the heat transfer efficiency and does not occupy too much space in the energy storage cavity 11.

[0086] The inventors also discovered in their research that the phase change rate of the energy storage material is related to the rate at which it acquires cold or heat. The location of the inner tube 2 within the outer tube 12, the structure and arrangement of the heat transfer plate 31, and / or the structure and arrangement of the heat sink 32 all affect the rate at which the energy storage material acquires cold or heat. The faster the energy storage material acquires cold or heat, the faster the phase change occurs.

[0087] The heat transfer plate 31 and the heat sink 32 divide the energy storage chamber 11 into several small, non-enclosed cavities. If the energy storage material at the outlet of the cavity undergoes a phase change that increases in volume before the energy storage material inside, for example, if the energy storage material at the outlet changes from liquid to solid before the energy storage material inside the cavity changes from liquid to solid, the outer shell 1, inner tube 2, or heat-conducting plate 3 surrounding the cavity will deform or burst. Conversely, if the energy storage material inside the cavity undergoes a phase change that increases in volume before the energy storage material at the outlet, that is, if the phase change rate of the energy storage material in the energy storage chamber decreases from the inside to the outlet, then when a phase change that increases in volume occurs inside, the liquid or gaseous energy storage material flows outward, which can prevent the energy storage device 100 from deforming or breaking. Therefore, controlling the direction of the phase change rate change in at least a portion of the area within the energy storage chamber 11 is crucial.

[0088] In this invention, within a portion of the energy storage cavity 11, the structure and arrangement of the heat-conducting plate 3 meet at least one of the following conditions: the length of the heat-conducting plate 3 decreases along the circumference of the inner tube 2; the density of the heat-conducting plate 3 decreases along the circumference of the inner tube 2; and the thickness of the heat-conducting plate 3 decreases along the circumference of the inner tube 2. Along these decreasing directions, the heat or cold provided by the heat-conducting plate 3 to the energy storage liquid within the energy storage cavity decreases, and the phase change rate of the energy storage liquid decreases, thus preventing deformation or breakage of the energy storage device 100.

[0089] The aforementioned "partial energy storage cavity" refers to a portion of the energy storage cavity 11. In the embodiment described above, where the heat-conducting plate 3 includes the heat transfer plate 31 and the heat sink 32, the aforementioned "partial energy storage cavity" refers to a sub-energy storage cavity 111 between two adjacent heat transfer plates 31. The aforementioned "reduction" refers to a decreasing trend within a unit volume, which can be a continuous decrease, an arithmetic decrease, or a discontinuous decrease such as a stepwise decrease.

[0090] Specifically, the heat-conducting plate 3 extends from the inner tube 2 in a direction away from the inner tube 2, and the heat-conducting plate 3 includes a heat transfer plate 31 that is in contact with both the inner tube 2 and the outer shell 1 and an inner tube 2 connected to the inner tube 2. At least two heat transfer plates 31 divide the energy storage cavity 11 into at least two sub-energy storage cavities 111. The heat sink 32 is located in the sub-energy storage cavity 11, and there is a gap between the heat sink 32 and the outer shell 1.

[0091] The included angle between at least two adjacent heat transfer plates 31 is in the range of 90°≤α≤180°. The length of the heat sink 32 located between the two heat transfer plates 31 decreases along the circumference of the inner tube 2, and / or the arrangement density of the heat sink 32 decreases along the circumference of the inner tube 2. As a result, the heat transfer area of ​​the heat sink 32 decreases from one of the heat transfer plates 31 to the other. The energy storage liquid in the sub-energy storage cavity 111 gradually undergoes a phase change along the decreasing direction. And / or the thickness of the heat sink 32 decreases along the circumference of the inner tube 2, causing the heat attenuation of the heat sink 32 to increase along the aforementioned decreasing direction. As a result, the energy storage liquid in the sub-energy storage cavity 111 gradually undergoes a phase change along the decreasing direction.

[0092] In the first type of embodiment, please refer to Figures 6-8 As shown, the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 12 are concentrically arranged, that is, the central axis of the inner tube 2 coincides with the central axis of the outer tube 12. The entire energy storage device 100 is relatively balanced, easy to manufacture, and has a long service life. At this time, by adjusting at least one of the structure or the density of the heat-conducting sheet 3, the phase change sequence of the energy storage material in different regions can be controlled.

[0093] For details, please refer to Figures 6-8 As shown, at least two heat transfer fins 31 are uniformly distributed along the circumference of the inner tube 2. From one heat transfer fin 31 towards the adjacent heat transfer fin 31, the density of the heat dissipation fins 32 decreases, and / or the length of the heat dissipation fins 32 decreases. Therefore, the sum of the heat transfer areas of the heat dissipation fins 32 in regions with high density or long length is large, and the regions with large heat transfer areas undergo phase change first, while the regions with small heat transfer areas undergo phase change later; this allows the energy storage material to... Figure 7 The arrow direction shown indicates a gradual phase change, preventing the energy storage device 100 from deforming or breaking.

[0094] Specifically, along the circumference of the inner tube 2, the lengths of the heat sinks 32 are the same, and the density between adjacent heat-conducting fins 3 decreases, meaning the angle between adjacent heat-conducting fins 3 increases. The smaller the angle, the smaller the cavity between two adjacent heat-conducting fins 3, and the faster the energy storage material within this cavity acquires cold or heat, resulting in an earlier phase change. The angle between the heat-conducting fins 3 includes the angle between adjacent heat transfer fins 31 and heat sinks 32, and the angle between two adjacent heat sinks 32.

[0095] Alternatively, along the circumference of the inner tube 2, the included angle between adjacent heat-conducting fins 3 is the same, and the length of the heat sink 32 decreases. The longer the heat sink 32, the larger its heat transfer area, and the faster the adjacent energy storage material acquires cold or heat, and the earlier the phase change occurs. Please refer to... Figure 6As shown, the longer the length La of the heat sink 32, the shorter the distance Lb between the heat sink 32 and the outer casing 1; for example, Lb1 is less than Lb2.

[0096] Preferably, please refer to Figures 6-8 As shown, along the circumference of the inner tube 2, the included angle between adjacent heat-conducting plates 3 increases, and the length of the heat sink 32 decreases. The difference in the rate at which different regions acquire cold or heat is greater, which is more conducive to the gradual phase change.

[0097] Furthermore, along the circumference of the inner tube 2, the thickness of the heat-conducting sheet 3 gradually decreases. The greater the thickness of the heat-conducting sheet, the smaller its heat attenuation, the smaller its thermal resistance, and the faster its heat transfer speed, thus achieving the aforementioned technical effects.

[0098] Furthermore, based on the above specific embodiments, the heat-conducting plate 3 includes two heat transfer plates 31 extending towards the first end and the second end respectively. These two heat transfer plates 31 divide the energy storage cavity 11 into two symmetrically arranged sub-energy storage cavities 111. The heat dissipation plates 32 located in the two sub-energy storage cavities 111 are symmetrically arranged relative to the heat transfer plates 31. Therefore, from the first end to the second end, the phase change rate of the energy storage liquid in the two sub-energy storage cavities 11 is consistent, that is, the phase change rate of the energy storage liquid on both sides of the two heat transfer plates 31 is basically consistent, which can prevent the heat transfer plates 31 from deforming or breaking.

[0099] Please see Figure 7 As shown, the energy storage material at each point within the energy storage cavity 11 obtains either cold or heat from the adjacent inner tube 2, the heat-conducting plate 3, and the outer tube 12. Figure 7 The middle arrows indicate the order in which energy is acquired at different points. During use, when installing the energy storage device 100, the side of the heat-conducting plate 3 with the higher density should be placed at the bottom, and the side with the lower density should be placed at the top, so that the liquid or gaseous energy storage material flows upward and avoids tube expansion.

[0100] Taking the cooling of the energy storage device 100 from the inner tube 2 as an example, between every two heat-conducting plates 3, the energy storage material in the area closer to the inner tube 2 acquires cold energy faster and crystallizes earlier; the energy storage material in the area with a higher density of heat-conducting plates 3 acquires heat or cold energy faster and crystallizes earlier; therefore, the energy storage material gradually undergoes a phase change in the direction indicated by the arrow, and the gas and liquid can flow upward effectively, effectively avoiding tube expansion.

[0101] Additionally, please see Figures 13-18 As shown, the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 12 are eccentrically arranged, that is, the central axis of the inner tube 2 is offset from the central axis of the outer tube 12.

[0102] Specifically, the outer tube 12 has a first end and a second end located on opposite sides of its central axis. After the inner tube 2 is offset towards the first end, the heat exchange rate between the energy storage material located on the first end side and the inner tube 2 is faster than that between the energy storage material located on the second end side and the inner tube 2. If the inner tube 2 is connected to the charging and cooling unit, the energy storage material located on the first end side cools down faster and undergoes a phase change first; while the energy storage material located on the second end side cools down slower and undergoes a phase change later. This can effectively control the phase change of the energy storage material in the energy storage chamber 11 from the first end to the second end, avoiding deformation or breakage of the energy storage device 100 due to disordered phase change direction.

[0103] In the second type of embodiment, please refer to Figure 13 or Figure 14 As shown, the offset distance between the central axis of the inner tube 2 and the central axis of the outer tube 12 is not greater than the threshold L1, and the heat-conducting plate 3 extends outward from the inner tube 2 along the radial direction of the inner tube 2.

[0104] In one specific embodiment, such as Figure 13 The included angles between adjacent heat-conducting plates 3 are equal along the circumference of the inner tube 2, and the lengths of the heat sinks 31 are the same. Based on the eccentric arrangement of the inner tube 2, it is also beneficial for the energy storage material to gradually undergo phase change.

[0105] The heat-conducting plate 3 includes two heat transfer plates 31, and the two heat transfer plates 31 divide the energy storage cavity 11 into two sub-energy storage cavities 111; the heat-conducting plate 3 also includes a plurality of heat dissipation plates 32 connected to the inner tube 2 and located in the sub-energy storage cavity 111, the heat dissipation plates 32 having a gap with the outer shell 1, and in each sub-energy storage cavity 111, the plurality of heat dissipation plates 32 are evenly arranged along the circumference of the inner tube 2.

[0106] Preferably, the heat sinks 32 located in the two sub-energy storage cavities 111 are symmetrically arranged relative to the heat transfer plates 31.

[0107] like Figure 14 As shown, the arrangement of the heat sink 32 is similar to... Figures 6-8 The embodiments shown are the same and will not be described again here. Based on the eccentric arrangement of the inner tube 2, and the combined effect of reduced length or density of the heat sink 32, the energy storage material is more conducive to undergoing a gradual phase change.

[0108] In the third type of embodiment, please refer to Figures 15-18As shown, the inner tube 2 is offset from the central axis of the outer tube 12 at the first end, and the offset distance is not less than the threshold L2. At this time, the offset distance of the inner tube 2 is large, and the amount of cold or heat it carries is much greater than that of the heat-conducting plate 3. Therefore, the amount of heat or cold obtained by the energy storage material from the inner tube 2, the heat-conducting plate 3 and the outer tube 12 generally decreases from the first end to the second end. This causes the energy storage material to gradually undergo phase change in one direction, avoiding phase change from multiple directions towards the middle, which would cause the energy storage device 100 to deform or break.

[0109] Specifically, such as Figure 15 As shown, when the offset distance is between the threshold L2 and the threshold L3, L2 is less than L3; the heat sinks all extend outward from the inner tube 2.

[0110] In one embodiment, two heat transfer plates 31 extending to the first end and the second end respectively divide the energy storage cavity 11 into two symmetrically arranged sub-energy storage cavities 111. A plurality of heat sinks 32 are in contact with the inner tube 2 and there is a gap between the heat sinks 32 and the outer shell 1. In the sub-energy storage space 111, along the circumference of the inner tube 2 from the first end to the second end, the length and / or arrangement density of the heat sinks 32 increase.

[0111] Specifically, along the circumference of the inner tube 2 from the first end to the second end, the lengths of the heat sinks 32 are the same, and the included angle between adjacent heat-conducting plates 3 decreases. Alternatively, along the circumference of the inner tube 2 from the first end to the second end, the included angle between adjacent heat-conducting plates 3 is the same, and the length of the heat-conducting plates 3 increases. Preferably, along the circumference of the inner tube 2 from the first end to the second end, the included angle between adjacent heat-conducting plates 3 decreases, and the length of the heat-conducting plates 3 increases.

[0112] In the above specific embodiments, due to the large offset distance of the inner tube 2, the heat or cold energy obtained by the energy storage material from the inner tube 2, the heat-conducting plate 3 and the outer tube 12 tends to decrease from the first end to the second end; this causes the energy storage material to gradually undergo phase change along one direction, avoiding phase change from multiple directions towards the middle, which would cause the energy storage device 100 to deform or break; at the same time, the energy storage speed of the entire energy storage device 100 is relatively fast.

[0113] Furthermore, the heat sinks 32 located in the two sub-energy storage cavities 111 are symmetrically arranged relative to the heat transfer plates 31.

[0114] When the offset distance is not less than the threshold L3, L2 is less than L3, and the distance between the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 12 is relatively close. If the heat sink 32 extends towards the offset side, the distance between the heat sink 32 and the outer tube 12 will be relatively close, which is not conducive to the flow of liquid or gaseous energy storage materials. Therefore, the heat sink 32 extends from the inner tube 2 beyond the first end and simultaneously in a direction away from the inner tube 2.

[0115] For details, please refer to Figures 16-18 As shown, from the first end to the second end, the length of the heat sink 32 increases, but the heat or cold energy obtained by the energy storage material from the inner tube 2, the heat-conducting plate 3 and the outer tube 12 generally shows a decreasing trend.

[0116] In practical use, the first end of the energy storage chamber 11 is placed at the bottom and the second end of the energy storage chamber 11 is placed at the top, so that the liquid or gaseous energy storage material flows upward and avoids tube expansion.

[0117] Furthermore, the outer wall of the housing 1 has markings indicating the first end and / or the second end; or, the markings indicate the direction of the reduction mentioned above. When installing the energy storage device 100, the markings serve as a reminder to avoid placing the side with lower heat transfer density downwards, which could lead to cracking.

[0118] Furthermore, based on all the above implementation schemes, the inner tube 2, the heat-conducting plate 3, and the outer tube 12 are integrally formed or integrally set, resulting in a heat transfer effect far superior to the post-assembly scheme. Aluminum or aluminum alloy materials are preferred due to their light weight and fast heat transfer speed.

[0119] The specific processing technology is as follows: the inner tube 2, the heat transfer plate 31 and the outer tube 12 are integrally formed; the connecting channel 14 is formed at the edge of the heat conduction plate 3 along the axial direction of the inner tube 2, for example, removing part of the heat conduction plate 3 so that the heat conduction plate 3 is located inside the outer tube 12; the end cap 13 is welded to the outer shell 1; energy storage material is injected into the energy storage chamber 11 from the injection port 131, and then the injection port 131 is sealed.

[0120] The present invention also provides a cold storage system, including a cold storage unit and any of the above-mentioned energy storage devices 100. The cold storage unit includes a cooling pipe 4 and a fluid medium located inside the cooling pipe 4; the cooling pipe 4 is located inside the inner pipe 2, and the outer wall of the cooling pipe 4 is in contact with the inner wall of the inner pipe 2; or the cooling pipe 4 is connected to the inner pipe 2, and the fluid medium flows in the channel formed by the cooling pipe 4 and the inner pipe 2.

[0121] The term "fitting" here refers to the seamless fit between the cooling tube 4 and the inner tube 2, with no gaps within the assembly tolerance range. Therefore, the reference direction of heat transfer is: liquid in the cooling tube 4 → cooling tube 4 → inner tube 2 → cold storage liquid in the energy storage chamber 11. Cooling or heating is transferred between liquid-solid, solid-solid, and solid-liquid states, resulting in minimal heat loss and ensuring rapid and effective heat transfer. For example, the interference fit between the cooling tube 4 and the inner tube 2 can be achieved through a tube expansion process.

[0122] In one specific embodiment, the cooling unit includes a compressor, a condenser connected to the compressor, and a throttling element connected to the condenser. The two ends of the cooling pipe 4 are connected to the throttling element and the compressor, respectively.

[0123] In another specific embodiment, the cooling unit includes a cold source containing a refrigerant, and the two ends of the refrigerant tube 4 are respectively connected to the cold source. The cold source and the refrigerant tube 4 together constitute the circulation channel of the refrigerant.

[0124] In the above embodiments, the energy storage device 100 releases cold or heat to the required space or object through the outer casing 1.

[0125] The present invention also provides a cold storage and cooling system, including any of the above-described energy storage devices 100 and a cooling unit. The cooling unit includes a cooling pipe located inside the inner pipe 2, with the outer wall of the cooling pipe in close contact with the inner wall of the inner pipe 2 without any gap; or the cooling pipe is connected to the inner pipe 2. In this embodiment, the energy storage material obtains cooling or heating energy from the outer shell 1.

[0126] The present invention also provides a refrigerator, including any of the above-mentioned energy storage devices 100, or any of the above-mentioned cold storage charging system, or any of the above-mentioned cold storage supply system.

[0127] In summary, the energy storage device 100 of the present invention optimizes the length, thickness and density of the heat-conducting sheet 3, making it smaller along the circumference of the inner tube 2. Consequently, the amount of cold or heat obtained by the energy storage liquid is also reduced, thus achieving an ordered phase change. This avoids deformation or rupture of the energy storage device 100 caused by increased internal pressure due to disordered phase change.

[0128] It should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0129] The detailed descriptions listed above are merely specific descriptions of feasible embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent embodiments or modifications made without departing from the spirit of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An energy storage device, comprising: a housing, the housing comprising an outer tube, end caps closing two axial ends of the outer tube, the outer tube having a first end and a second end on opposite sides of an axis thereof; an inner tube, the inner tube being disposed in the housing, and a closed energy storage cavity for accommodating an energy storage material being formed between the housing and the inner tube; a plurality of heat conducting fins, the heat conducting fins being disposed in the energy storage cavity; characterized in that the heat conducting fins comprise two heat transfer fins and a plurality of heat dissipation fins, the heat transfer fins being in contact with the inner tube and the housing, and the two heat transfer fins dividing the energy storage cavity into two sub-energy storage cavities, one heat transfer fin extending outward from the inner tube and being connected to the first end, and the other heat transfer fin extending outward from the inner tube and being connected to the second end, the heat dissipation fins being in contact with the inner tube, and the heat dissipation fins having a gap with the housing, in the sub-energy storage cavities, the length of the heat dissipation fins decreasing from the first end to the second end and along the circumference of the inner tube, and / or the arrangement density of the heat dissipation fins decreasing from the first end to the second end and along the circumference of the inner tube, and / or the thickness of the heat dissipation fins decreasing from the first end to the second end and along the circumference of the inner tube; the energy storage device further comprising a communication passage communicating the two sub-energy storage cavities, the heat transfer fins extending along the axial direction of the inner tube, and the communication passage being located at at least one end of the heat transfer fins along the axial direction of the inner tube.

2. The energy accumulating device according to claim 1, wherein the heat transfer fins being one of a sheet shape, an arc shape, and a spiral shape, and the cross section of the heat transfer fins being one of a rectangle, a triangle, a trapezoid, and an arc after being cut along a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the inner tube.

3. The energy storage device according to claim 2, characterized in that: the angle between adjacent heat dissipation fins is the same along the circumference of the inner tube, and the length of the heat dissipation fins decreases; or, the length of the heat dissipation fins is the same along the circumference of the inner tube, and the angle between adjacent heat conducting fins increases; or, the length of the heat dissipation fins decreases along the circumference of the inner tube, and the angle between adjacent heat conducting fins increases.

4. The energy accumulating device according to claim 2, wherein the heat dissipation fins in the two sub-energy storage cavities are symmetrically arranged relative to the heat transfer fins.

5. The energy storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the outer wall of the housing has an indication indicating the direction of the decrease.

6. The energy storage device of any one of claim 1, wherein, the heat dissipation fins are provided with auxiliary communication passages at positions corresponding to the communication passage.

7. The energy accumulating device of claim 1, wherein the thickness of the heat transfer fins is greater than the thickness of the heat dissipation fins.

8. The energy accumulating device of claim 1, wherein the energy storage device further comprises an energy storage material disposed in the energy storage cavity.

9. A charge-cooling cold storage system, characterized by, comprising: a cooling charging unit, the cooling charging unit comprising a cold carrier tube and a fluid medium disposed in the cold carrier tube; the energy storage device according to any one of claims 1-8, the cold carrier tube being disposed in the inner tube, and the outer wall of the cold carrier tube being attached to the inner wall of the inner tube; or the cold carrier tube being in communication with the inner tube.

10. The charge-cool storage system of claim 9, wherein, the cooling charging unit comprising a compressor, a condenser in communication with the compressor, and a throttling element in communication with the condenser, the two ends of the cold carrier tube being in communication with the throttling element and the compressor, respectively; or, the cooling charging unit comprising a cold source with a built-in cold carrier, the two ends of the cold carrier tube being in communication with the cold source, and the cold source and the cold carrier tube together forming a circulation passage of the cold carrier.

11. A cold storage cooling system, characterized by, comprising: The energy storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 8; The cooling unit comprises a cooling pipe, which is located in the inner pipe and the outer wall of the cooling pipe is attached to the inner wall of the inner pipe; or the cooling pipe is communicated with the inner pipe.

12. A cold chain shipping box characterized in that, The cold chain transport box comprises the energy storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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