Vehicle temperature control system

Abstract

The present invention provides a technology capable of detecting an abnormality in a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between different temperature control media. A vehicle temperature control system comprises: a first temperature control circuit in which a first temperature control medium circulates; a second temperature control circuit in which a second temperature control medium circulates; and a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the first and second temperature control media. A first temperature sensor detects the temperature of the first temperature control medium flowing into the heat exchanger. A second temperature sensor detects the temperature of the first temperature control medium flowing out of the heat exchanger. A third temperature sensor detects the temperature of the second temperature control medium flowing into the heat exchanger. An abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality in the heat exchanger based on the detection values ​​of the first, second, and third temperature sensors.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle temperature adjustment system mounted on an electric vehicle or the like. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, vehicles equipped with rotating electric machines and power conversion devices, such as electric vehicles, are already known. Generally, these machines generate heat during operation, so vehicles equipped with these devices are equipped with a vehicle temperature control system to regulate the temperature of the rotating electric machines and power conversion devices.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle temperature control system comprising: a circulation path L through which oil circulates to cool an electric motor M; a circulation path F through which cooling water circulates to cool an inverter U; and a heat exchange unit (oil cooler C) that exchanges heat between the cooling water flowing through circulation path F and the oil flowing through circulation path L. A radiator R is provided in circulation path F, and the cooling water flowing through circulation path F is cooled by radiator R. The oil flowing through circulation path L is cooled by the heat exchange unit (oil cooler C) through the heat exchange between the cooling water flowing through circulation path F and the oil flowing through circulation path L. Therefore, the vehicle temperature control system of Patent Document 1 does not require a radiator for cooling the oil. Instead, a single radiator can be used to cool both the cooling water flowing through circulation path F and the oil flowing through circulation path L, thereby enabling a more compact vehicle temperature control system.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-238406 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] In a configuration where a temperature control medium used to control the temperature of a rotating electrical machine such as a motor is cooled by heat exchange with the temperature control medium used to control the temperature of a power conversion device, if an abnormality such as a heat exchanger failure occurs, the temperature of the rotating electrical machine may rise, potentially causing failure of the rotating electrical machine. However, the configuration of Patent Document 1 cannot detect abnormalities in the heat exchange unit.

[0009] The present invention provides a vehicle temperature control system capable of detecting abnormality in a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between different temperature control media.

[0010] Means for solving problems

[0011] The present invention provides a vehicle temperature adjustment system, wherein:

[0012] The vehicle temperature adjustment system includes:

[0013] a first temperature adjustment circuit having a first pump and circulating a first temperature adjustment medium;

[0014] a second temperature adjustment circuit having a second pump and circulating a second temperature adjustment medium;

[0015] a heat exchanger for performing heat exchange between the first temperature adjustment medium and the second temperature adjustment medium;

[0016] a first temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the first temperature-adjusting medium flowing into the heat exchanger;

[0017] a second temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the first temperature adjustment medium flowing out of the heat exchanger;

[0018] a third temperature sensor that detects a temperature of the second temperature adjustment medium flowing into the heat exchanger; and

[0019] A detection unit detects an abnormality in the heat exchanger based on detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor, and the third temperature sensor.

[0020] Effects of the Invention

[0021] According to the present invention, it is possible to detect abnormality in a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between different temperature control media. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a vehicle temperature control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a flowchart showing an example of control of the abnormality detection unit.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a flowchart showing another example of control of the abnormality detection unit.

[0025] Description of Reference Numerals

[0026] 10 Vehicle temperature control system

[0027] 61 First temperature adjustment circuit

[0028] 61a First temperature sensor

[0029] 62 Second temperature adjustment circuit

[0030] 63 Heat Exchanger

[0031] 71 Abnormality Detection Unit (Detection Unit)

[0032] 610c Second temperature sensor

[0033] 611 First Pump

[0034] 620c Third temperature sensor

[0035] 620b1 First branch flow path

[0036] 62062 Second branch flow path

[0037] 621 Second Pump

[0038] 622 Radiator

[0039] 626 Valve assembly (flow regulating valve). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The following describes one embodiment of a vehicle equipped with the vehicle temperature control system of the present invention, based on the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are viewed along the directions indicated by the symbols. Furthermore, in this specification and other documents, for simplicity and clarity, the front, rear, left, right, and up and down directions are described as viewed from the perspective of the vehicle driver. In the accompanying drawings, the front of the vehicle is indicated as Fr, the rear as Rr, the left as L, the right as R, the top as U, and the bottom as D.

[0041] [Implementation Method]

[0042] First, refer to Figure 1 A vehicle temperature adjustment system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle temperature control system 10 of this embodiment is mounted on a vehicle V and includes an internal combustion engine ICE, a control unit ECU, a motor 20 , a generator 30 , a transmission 40 , a power conversion device 50 , and a temperature control circuit 60 .

[0044] The electric motor 20 is a rotating electrical machine that outputs power for driving the vehicle V using electricity stored in a power storage device (not shown) mounted on the vehicle V or electricity generated by a generator 30. The electric motor 20 can also generate electricity using the kinetic energy of the drive wheels of the vehicle V during braking to charge the aforementioned power storage device.

[0045] The generator 30 is a rotating electric machine that generates electricity using the power of the internal combustion engine ICE to charge the aforementioned power storage device or to supply electric power to the electric motor 20 .

[0046] The transmission 40 is a device that reduces the speed of power output from the electric motor 20 and transmits the speed to the drive wheels, and is, for example, a gear-type power transmission device.

[0047] The power conversion device 50 includes a power drive unit (PDU) (not shown), which converts the power output from the power storage device from DC to AC to control the input and output power of the motor 20 and the generator 30; and a voltage control unit (VCU) (not shown), which boosts the power output from the power storage device as needed. The VCU can also step down the power generated by the motor 20 when the motor 20 generates power during braking of the vehicle V.

[0048] The temperature control circuit 60 includes a first temperature control circuit 61 through which a non-conductive first temperature control medium TCM1 circulates to control the temperature of the motor 20, generator 30, and transmission 40; a second temperature control circuit 62 through which a conductive second temperature control medium TCM2 circulates to control the temperature of the power conversion device 50; and a heat exchanger 63 for exchanging heat between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2. The non-conductive first temperature control medium TCM1 is, for example, automatic transmission fluid (ATF), which can lubricate and control the temperature of the motor 20, generator 30, and transmission 40. The conductive second temperature control medium TCM2 is, for example, cooling water, such as long-life refrigerant (LLC).

[0049] The first temperature control circuit 61 is provided with a first pump 611 and a reservoir 612. The first pump 611 is a mechanical pump driven by the power of the internal combustion engine ICE and the rotational force of the axle (not shown) of the vehicle V. The reservoir 612 stores the first temperature control medium TCM1 that circulates through the first temperature control circuit 61. The reservoir 612 is, for example, an oil pan located at the bottom of a housing (not shown) housing the electric motor 20, the generator 30, and the transmission 40. The first temperature control circuit 61 has a branch portion 613. The first temperature adjustment circuit 61 includes a pressurized feed flow path 610a, which includes a first pump 611 and has its upstream end connected to a reservoir 612 and its downstream end connected to a branch portion 613 via the first pump 611; a first branch flow path 610b1, which includes the motor 20 and the generator 30 and has its upstream end connected to the branch portion 613 and its downstream end connected to the reservoir 612 via the motor 20 and the generator 30; and a second branch flow path 610b2, which includes the speed change device 40 and has its upstream end connected to the branch portion 613 and its downstream end connected to the reservoir 612 via the speed change device 40. In the first temperature adjustment circuit 61, a heat exchanger 63 is disposed upstream of the motor 20 and the generator 30 in the first branch flow path 610b1.

[0050] Therefore, the first temperature control circuit 61 has two parallel flow paths: a flow path in which the first temperature control medium TCM1, pressure-fed from the first pump 611, passes through the first branch flow path 610b1 from the branch portion 613, exchanges heat with the second temperature control medium TCM2 in the heat exchanger 63, is cooled, and is supplied to the motor 20 and generator 30 to lubricate and regulate their temperature, before being stored in the reservoir 612; and a flow path in which the first temperature control medium TCM1, pressure-fed from the first pump 611, passes through the second branch flow path 610b2 from the branch portion 613 to the transmission 40 to lubricate and regulate their temperature, before being stored in the reservoir 612. The first temperature control medium TCM1 stored in the reservoir 612 flows through the pressure-fed flow path 610a and is supplied to the first pump 611, thereby circulating within the first temperature control circuit 61.

[0051] In this embodiment, the first branch channel 610b1 and the second branch channel 610b2 are formed so that the flow rate of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing through the first branch channel 610b1 is greater than the flow rate of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing through the second branch channel 610b2.

[0052] The first temperature control circuit 61 is provided with a first temperature sensor 61a, which detects the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 circulating in the first temperature control circuit 61. In this embodiment, the first temperature sensor 61a is provided in a reservoir 612, which serves as an oil pan, and detects the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 stored in the reservoir 612. The first temperature sensor 61a outputs the detected temperature value of the first temperature control medium TCM1 stored in the reservoir 612 to the control unit ECU. The first temperature sensor 61a is an example of a first temperature sensor that detects the temperature Toil_in of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing into the heat exchanger 63.

[0053] The first temperature adjustment circuit 61 also includes a pressure regulating circuit 610c, and its upstream end is connected to the storage section 612, and its downstream end is connected to the pressurized delivery flow path 610a at a position downstream of the first pump 611. A pressure regulating valve 619 is provided in the pressure regulating circuit 610c. The pressure regulating valve 619 can be a check valve or an electromagnetic valve such as an electromagnetic reversing valve. When the hydraulic pressure of the first temperature adjustment medium TCM1 pressurized and delivered from the first pump 611 becomes higher than the specified upper limit pressure, the pressure regulating valve 619 becomes open, and a portion of the first temperature adjustment medium TCM1 pressurized and delivered from the first pump 611 returns to the storage section 612. As a result, the hydraulic pressure of the first temperature adjustment medium TCM1 flowing through the first branch flow path 610b1 and the second branch flow path 610b2 is maintained below the upper limit pressure.

[0054] A second temperature sensor 610c is provided in the flow path of the first temperature control medium TCM1 in the first temperature control circuit 61, between the heat exchanger 63 and the motor 20 and generator 30. The second temperature sensor 610c is an example of a second temperature sensor that detects the temperature Toil_out of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing out of the heat exchanger 63. The second temperature sensor 610c outputs the detected value of the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing out of the heat exchanger 63 to the control unit ECU.

[0055] The second temperature control circuit 62 is provided with a second pump 621, a radiator 622, and a storage tank 623. The second pump 621 is, for example, an electric pump driven by the electricity stored in the aforementioned power storage device. The radiator 622 is located at the front of the vehicle V and is a heat dissipation device that cools the second temperature control medium TCM2 using the wind generated by the vehicle V during travel. The storage tank 623 is a tank that temporarily stores the second temperature control medium TCM2 circulating in the second temperature control circuit 62. Even if cavitation occurs in the second temperature control medium TCM2 circulating in the second temperature control circuit 62, the temporary storage of the second temperature control medium TCM2 in the storage tank 623 eliminates the cavitation.

[0056] The second temperature control circuit 62 includes a branching portion 624 and a confluence portion 625. The second temperature control circuit 62 is provided with, in order from the upstream side, a reservoir tank 623, a second pump 621, and a radiator 622. The second temperature control circuit 62 includes a pressurized feed flow path 620a, the upstream end of which is connected to the confluence portion 625, and the downstream end of which is connected to the branching portion 624 via the reservoir tank 623, the second pump 621, and the radiator 622. The second temperature control medium TCM2 stored in the reservoir tank 623 is pressurized and fed by the second pump 621 through the pressurized feed flow path 620a and cooled by the radiator 622.

[0057] The second temperature control circuit 62 further includes a first branch flow path 620b1, which is provided with the power conversion device 50 and whose upstream end is connected to the branch portion 624 and whose downstream end is connected to the confluence portion 625 via the power conversion device 50; and a second branch flow path 62062, which is provided with the heat exchanger 63 and whose upstream end is connected to the branch portion 624 and whose downstream end is connected to the confluence portion 625 via the heat exchanger 63. In this embodiment, a valve device 626 serving as a flow control valve is provided in the portion of the second branch flow path 62062 upstream of the heat exchanger 63. In this embodiment, the valve device 626 can be an on-off valve that switches the second branch flow path 62062 between fully open and fully closed, or a variable flow valve that can adjust the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the second branch flow path 62062. The valve device 626 is controlled by the control unit ECU.

[0058] Therefore, the second temperature control medium TCM2, which is pressurized and fed by the second pump 621 in the pressurized feed flow path 620a and cooled by the radiator 622, branches at the branching portion 624 into a first branch flow path 620b1 and a second branch flow path 620b2. The second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the first branch flow path 620b1 cools the power conversion device 50 and merges with the second branch flow path 62062 and the pressurized feed flow path 620a at the confluence portion 625. The second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the second branch flow path 62062 cools the first temperature control medium TCM1 by exchanging heat with the first temperature control medium TCM1 in the heat exchanger 63 and merges with the first branch flow path 620b1 and the pressurized feed flow path 620a at the confluence portion 625. The second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the first branch flow path 620b1 merges with the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the second branch flow path 620b2 at the junction 625, flows through the pressurized delivery flow path 620a, and is temporarily stored in the storage tank 623. The second temperature control medium TCM2 stored in the storage tank 623 is then supplied to the second pump 621 again through the pressurized delivery flow path 620a, and the second temperature control medium TCM2 circulates in the second temperature control circuit 62.

[0059] In this embodiment, the first branch flow path 620b1 and the second branch flow path 62062 are formed so that the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the first branch flow path 620b1 is greater than the flow rate of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the second branch flow path 62062.

[0060] A third temperature sensor 620c is provided in the flow path of the second temperature control medium TCM2 in the second temperature control circuit 62, between the radiator 622 and the branch portion 624. The third temperature sensor 620c outputs a detected value of the temperature of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing from the radiator 622 to the branch portion 624 to the control unit ECU. The third temperature sensor 620c is an example of a third temperature sensor that detects the temperature Tw of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing into the heat exchanger 63.

[0061] In the first temperature control circuit 61 , the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 stored in the storage portion 612 after cooling the motor 20 , the generator 30 , and the transmission 40 is approximately 100° C. Therefore, the first temperature control medium TCM1 at approximately 100° C. is supplied to the heat exchanger 63 .

[0062] On the other hand, in the second temperature control circuit 62, the temperature of the second temperature control medium TCM2 after being cooled by the radiator 622 is approximately 40°C. Since the second temperature control medium TCM2 supplied to the heat exchanger 63 does not pass through the power conversion device 50, which is the device to be temperature-controlled, the second temperature control medium TCM2 at approximately 40°C is supplied to the heat exchanger 63.

[0063] The heat exchanger 63 exchanges heat between the first temperature control medium TCM1 at approximately 100°C and the second temperature control medium TCM2 at approximately 40°C supplied to the heat exchanger 63. The first temperature control medium TCM1 at approximately 80°C is then discharged from the heat exchanger 63 to the downstream side of the first branch flow path 610b1 of the first temperature control circuit 61, and the second temperature control medium TCM2 at approximately 70°C is discharged to the downstream side of the second branch flow path 620b2 of the second temperature control circuit 62.

[0064] In this manner, the first temperature control medium TCM1 is cooled in the heat exchanger 63, so the temperature control circuit 60 can cool the first temperature control medium TCM1 without providing a radiator for cooling the first temperature control medium TCM1. Therefore, the temperature control circuit 60 can cool both the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing through the first temperature control circuit 61 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing through the second temperature control circuit 62 using a single radiator 622, thereby miniaturizing the temperature control circuit 60.

[0065] The control unit ECU controls the internal combustion engine ICE, the power conversion device 50, the second pump 621, and the valve device 626. A rotation speed sensor 621a is mounted on the second pump 621 to detect the rotation speed of the second pump 621. The rotation speed sensor 621a outputs the detected rotation speed value of the second pump 621 to the control unit ECU.

[0066] The control unit ECU also includes an abnormality detection unit 71. Abnormality detection unit 71 detects an abnormality (e.g., a malfunction) in the heat exchanger 63. When abnormality detection unit 71 detects an abnormality in the heat exchanger 63, the control unit ECU performs, for example, control to notify the driver of the abnormality in the heat exchanger 63 or control to suppress the operation of rotating electrical machines such as the motor 20 and the generator 30.

[0067] Furthermore, the abnormality detection unit 71 may also detect an abnormality (e.g., a failure) in the valve device 626. If the abnormality detection unit 71 detects an abnormality in the valve device 626, the control unit ECU performs, for example, control to notify the driver of the abnormality in the valve device 626 or control to suppress the operation of the rotating electrical machine such as the motor 20 or the generator 30.

[0068] return Figure 1When the first temperature control medium TCM1 is ATF, as the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 decreases, the viscosity of the first temperature control medium TCM1 increases. Since the first temperature control medium TCM1 flows through the motor 20 and the generator 30, a higher viscosity increases frictional losses in the motor 20 and the generator 30, reducing the output efficiency of the motor 20 and the generator 30. Therefore, when the motor 20 and the generator 30 are not yet heated and the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 is below a predetermined temperature, cooling of the first temperature control medium TCM1 is unnecessary and preferably not performed.

[0069] When the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 outputted from the first temperature sensor 61a is equal to or lower than a predetermined temperature, the control unit ECU controls the valve device 626 to fully close the valve device 626 and block the flow of the second temperature control medium TCM2 through the second branch flow path 62062 .

[0070] When the second temperature control medium TCM2 is shut off from flowing through the second branch flow path 62062, the second temperature control medium TCM2 is not supplied to the heat exchanger 63. Therefore, heat exchange does not occur between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2, and the first temperature control medium TCM1 is not cooled. Therefore, when cooling of the first temperature control medium TCM1 is not required, the first temperature control medium TCM1 can be prevented from being cooled by the heat exchanger 63. This can suppress any increase in frictional losses in the motor 20 and the generator 30.

[0071] Reference Figure 2 , an example of abnormality detection of the control unit ECU is described. For example, when the ignition power of the vehicle V is turned on, the control unit ECU executes Figure 2 This process is executed, for example, by the abnormality detection unit 71. As an initial state, the valve device 626 is fully opened.

[0072] First, control unit ECU starts driving second pump 621 (step S201). Specifically, control unit ECU starts driving second pump 621 by inputting a drive signal with a predetermined duty cycle to second pump 621. Second pump 621 operates at a rotational speed corresponding to the duty cycle of the drive signal input from control unit ECU, thereby pressurizing and delivering second temperature control medium TCM2.

[0073] Next, control unit ECU obtains the temperature Toil_in of the first temperature control medium TCM1 (the first temperature control medium TCM1 upstream of the heat exchanger 63), detected by the first temperature sensor 61a (step S202). Control unit ECU then determines whether the temperature Toil_in obtained in step S202 is greater than or equal to a threshold value TH0 (step S203). Threshold value TH0 is, for example, a value sufficiently higher than the temperature of the second temperature control medium TCM2 cooled by the radiator 622, and can be set to approximately 80°C, for example.

[0074] In step S203, if the acquired temperature Toil_in is not greater than threshold value TH0 (step S203: No), it can be determined that the temperature difference between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 is small, making it difficult to accurately detect an abnormality in heat exchanger 63. In this case, control unit ECU returns to step S202.

[0075] In step S203, if the acquired temperature Toil_in is greater than or equal to the threshold value TH0 (step S203: YES), it is determined that a certain temperature difference exists between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2, and an abnormality in the heat exchanger 63 can be accurately detected. In this case, the control unit ECU obtains the temperature Tw of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing into the heat exchanger 63, as detected by the third temperature sensor 620c (step S204).

[0076] Next, control unit ECU derives an estimated value Q1 of the amount of heat exchanged between first temperature control medium TCM1 and second temperature control medium TCM2 in heat exchanger 63 based on temperature Toil_in obtained in step S202 and temperature Tw obtained in step S204 (step S205). For example, mapping information indicating estimated value Q1 for each combination of temperature Toil_in and temperature Tw is stored in a memory accessible to control unit ECU, and control unit ECU derives estimated value Q1 based on this mapping information.

[0077] Next, control unit ECU obtains temperature Toil_out of the first temperature control medium TCM1 (first temperature control medium TCM1 downstream of heat exchanger 63), detected by second temperature sensor 610c (step S206). Control unit ECU then determines whether the difference (Toil_in - Toil_out) between temperature Toil_in obtained in step S202 and temperature Toil_out obtained in step S206 is within a range of ±3°C relative to estimated value Q1 of the heat exchange amount derived in step S205 (step S207).

[0078] Here, the estimated value Q1 of the heat exchange amount is an estimated value of the temperature change of the first temperature control medium TCM1 in the heat exchanger 63, assuming that there is no abnormality in the heat exchanger 63. Therefore, in step S207, it is possible to determine whether the actual temperature change of the first temperature control medium TCM1 in the heat exchanger 63 deviates from the estimated value of the temperature change of the first temperature control medium TCM1, assuming that there is no abnormality in the heat exchanger 63.

[0079] In step S207, when the actual temperature change (Toil_in - Toil_out) of the first temperature control medium TCM1 is not within the range of ±3°C with respect to the estimated value Q1 of the heat exchange amount (step S207: No), the control unit ECU determines that an abnormality exists in the heat exchanger 63 (step S208), and ends the series of processing.

[0080] In step S207, if the actual temperature change (Toil_in - Toil_out) of the first temperature control medium TCM1 is within the range of ±3°C relative to the estimated value Q1 of the heat exchange amount (step S207: Yes), it can be determined that there is no abnormality in the heat exchanger 63. In this case, the control unit ECU controls the valve device 626 to fully close (step S209). In this case, if there is no abnormality in the valve device 626, the flow of the second temperature control medium TCM2 into the heat exchanger 63 is cut off, and the state transitions to a state in which heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 in the heat exchanger 63 is not taking place. Here, the control unit ECU waits for a predetermined period of time, maintaining a state in which heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 in the heat exchanger 63 is not taking place.

[0081] Next, control unit ECU obtains temperature Toil_in of first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing into heat exchanger 63, detected by first temperature sensor 61a (step S210). Furthermore, control unit ECU obtains temperature Toil_out of first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing out of heat exchanger 63, detected by second temperature sensor 610c (step S211).

[0082] Next, control unit ECU determines whether the difference (Toil_in - Toil_out) between temperature Toil_in obtained in step S210 and temperature Toil_out obtained in step S211 is within the range of ±3°C (step S212). Step S212 determines whether there has been an actual temperature change in first temperature control medium TCM1 in heat exchanger 63.

[0083] In step S212, if the actual temperature change (Toil_in - Toil_out) of the first temperature control medium TCM1 is not within the range of ±3°C (step S212: No), it can be determined that despite the control of fully closing the valve device 626 in step S209, heat exchange is still occurring in the heat exchanger 63, and that the flow of the second temperature control medium TCM2 into the heat exchanger 63 cannot be shut off. In this case, the control unit ECU determines that the valve device 626 is abnormal (step S213) and terminates the series of processing.

[0084] If the actual temperature change (Toil_in - Toil_out) of the first temperature control medium TCM1 is within the range of ±3°C (step S212: Yes), control is performed in step S209 to fully close the valve device 626. As a result, it is determined that heat exchange is no longer occurring in the heat exchanger 63, and thus the flow of the second temperature control medium TCM2 into the heat exchanger 63 can be shut off. In this case, the control unit ECU determines that there are no abnormalities in the heat exchanger 63 and the valve device 626 (step S214), and the series of processing steps ends.

[0085] In this way, the control unit ECU can detect an abnormality in the heat exchanger 63 that performs heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 based on the temperature Toil_in of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing into the heat exchanger 63, the temperature Toil_out of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing out of the heat exchanger 63, and the temperature Tw of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing into the heat exchanger 63.

[0086] That is, when there is no abnormality in the heat exchanger 63 , the presence of a certain relationship among the temperature Toil_in, the temperature Toil_out, and the temperature Tw allows the abnormality of the heat exchanger 63 to be detected based on these temperatures.

[0087] For example, based on the temperature Toil_in and the temperature Toil_out, an estimated value Q1 of the heat exchange amount between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 in the heat exchanger 63 is derived. The derived estimated value Q1 of the heat exchange amount is compared with the actual temperature change of the first temperature control medium TCM1 in the heat exchanger 63 (temperature Toil_outn - temperature Toil_in), thereby detecting an abnormality in the heat exchanger 63.

[0088] However, the abnormality detection method is not limited to this. For example, the control unit ECU may derive an estimated value of the temperature of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing out of the heat exchanger 63 based on the temperature Toil_in and the temperature Toil_out, and compare the derived estimated value of the temperature of the second temperature control medium TCM2 with the actual temperature Toil_out of the second temperature control medium TCM2 flowing out of the heat exchanger 63 to detect an abnormality in the heat exchanger 63.

[0089] In addition, in the structure in which the second temperature adjustment medium TCM2 is cooled by the radiator 622, the abnormality of the heat exchanger 63 can be detected more accurately by using the detection values ​​of each temperature sensor in a state where the temperature Toil_in of the first temperature adjustment medium TCM1 flowing into the heat exchanger 63 is above a specified value (threshold TH0), that is, when there is a certain degree of temperature difference between the first temperature adjustment medium TCM1 and the second temperature adjustment medium TCM2.

[0090] In addition, an abnormality of the heat exchanger 63 is detected based on the detection values ​​of each temperature sensor when the valve device 626 is in the open state. If no abnormality of the heat exchanger 63 is detected, the valve device 626 is controlled to be closed, and the temperature Toil_in of the first temperature adjustment medium TCM1 flowing into the heat exchanger 63 is compared with the temperature Toil_out of the first temperature adjustment medium TCM1 flowing out of the heat exchanger 63, thereby detecting an abnormality of the valve device 626.

[0091] Reference Figure 3 Another example of abnormality detection by the control unit ECU will be described. For example, when the ignition power of the vehicle V is turned on, the control unit ECU executes Figure 3 This process is executed, for example, by the abnormality detection unit 71. As an initial state, the valve device 626 is fully opened.

[0092] Steps S301 to S303 and Figure 2 Steps S201 to S203 are the same as those shown. In step S303, if the acquired temperature Toil_in is not above the threshold value TH0 (step S203: No), the control unit ECU controls the valve device 626 to be fully closed (step S304), and the process returns to step S302. This shuts off the flow of the second temperature control medium TCM2 into the heat exchanger 63, preventing heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 in the heat exchanger 63. This facilitates the temperature increase of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing into the heat exchanger 63. Furthermore, if the valve device 626 is already fully closed in step S304, the control unit ECU may not control the valve device 626 to be fully closed.

[0093] If the acquired temperature Toil_in is greater than or equal to threshold value TH0 in step S203 (step S203: Yes), control unit ECU controls valve device 626 to fully open (step S305). This allows second temperature control medium TCM2 to flow into heat exchanger 63, transitioning the state to a state where heat exchange between first temperature control medium TCM1 and second temperature control medium TCM2 is ongoing in heat exchanger 63. Control unit ECU then waits for a predetermined period of time to maintain heat exchange between first temperature control medium TCM1 and second temperature control medium TCM2 in heat exchanger 63. Furthermore, if valve device 626 is already fully open in step S305, control unit ECU may not control valve device 626 to fully close.

[0094] Then, the control unit ECU transfers to step S306. Steps S306 to S316 are the same as Figure 2 In addition, regarding step S304, the control unit ECU has been described as controlling the valve device 626 to fully close the valve device 626, but the control unit ECU may also control the valve device 626 to reduce the flow rate (for example, control the valve device 626 to half open).

[0095] In this manner, when the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 is less than a predetermined value (threshold value TH0), that is, when the temperature difference between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 is small and accurate detection of an abnormality in the heat exchanger 63 is difficult, the flow of the second temperature control medium TCM2 into the heat exchanger 63 can be restricted, thereby suppressing heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2, thereby raising the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1. Furthermore, after the temperature of the first temperature control medium TCM1 reaches or exceeds the predetermined value, the restriction on the flow of the second temperature control medium TCM2 into the heat exchanger 63 is released, and heat exchange between the first temperature control medium TCM1 and the second temperature control medium TCM2 is initiated. By using the detection values ​​of the temperature sensors thereafter, an abnormality in the heat exchanger 63 can be more accurately detected.

[0096] While one embodiment of the present invention has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. It is apparent that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various variations or modifications within the scope of the technical solution, and such variations and modifications also fall within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the various components of the above-described embodiment may be arbitrarily combined without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0097] For example, the vehicle V has been described as including an internal combustion engine ICE. However, the vehicle V may be an electric vehicle that does not include an internal combustion engine ICE.

[0098] Furthermore, although the power converter 50 and the heat exchanger 63 are arranged in parallel, they may be arranged in series. For example, the power converter 50 may be arranged between the radiator 622 and the branch portion 624 .

[0099] While the configuration described above uses the first temperature sensor 61a of the reservoir 612 as the first temperature sensor for detecting the temperature Toil_in of the first temperature control medium TCM1 flowing into the heat exchanger 63, the first temperature sensor for detecting the temperature Toil_in may alternatively be a temperature sensor disposed between the reservoir 612 and the heat exchanger 63 in the flow path of the first temperature control medium TCM1. Furthermore, the first temperature sensor for detecting the temperature Toil_in may alternatively be a temperature sensor disposed between the branch portion 613 and the transmission 40 in the flow path of the first temperature control medium TCM1.

[0100] The structure of using the third temperature sensor 620c as the third temperature sensor for detecting the temperature Tw of the second temperature adjustment medium TCM2 flowing into the heat exchanger 63 has been described, but the third temperature sensor for detecting the temperature Tw can also be a temperature sensor arranged between the branch portion 624 in the flow path of the second temperature adjustment medium TCM2 and the heat exchanger 63.

[0101] This specification describes at least the following matters: Although corresponding components in the above-described embodiment are shown in parentheses as examples, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0102] (1) A vehicle temperature control system (vehicle temperature control system 10), wherein:

[0103] The vehicle temperature adjustment system includes:

[0104] a first temperature control circuit (first temperature control circuit 61 ), which includes a first pump (first pump 611 ) and circulates a first temperature control medium (first temperature control medium TCM1 );

[0105] a second temperature adjustment circuit (second temperature adjustment circuit 62 ), which includes a second pump (second pump 621 ) and circulates a second temperature adjustment medium (second temperature adjustment medium TCM2 );

[0106] a heat exchanger (heat exchanger 63 ) for performing heat exchange between the first temperature adjustment medium and the second temperature adjustment medium;

[0107] a first temperature sensor (first temperature sensor 61 a ) for detecting a temperature (temperature Toil_in) of the first temperature adjustment medium flowing into the heat exchanger;

[0108] a second temperature sensor (second temperature sensor 610 c ) configured to detect a temperature (temperature Toil_out) of the first temperature adjustment medium flowing out of the heat exchanger;

[0109] a third temperature sensor (third temperature sensor 620c) that detects the temperature (temperature Tw) of the second temperature adjustment medium flowing into the heat exchanger; and

[0110] The detection unit (abnormality detection unit 71 ) detects abnormality of the heat exchanger based on the detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor, and the third temperature sensor.

[0111] According to (1), based on the temperature of the first temperature control medium flowing into the heat exchanger, the temperature of the first temperature control medium flowing out of the heat exchanger, and the temperature of the second temperature control medium flowing into the heat exchanger, it is possible to detect an abnormality in the heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the first temperature control medium and the second temperature control medium.

[0112] (2) The vehicle temperature control system according to (1), wherein:

[0113] The detection unit derives an estimated value (estimated value Q1) of the amount of heat exchange between the first temperature adjustment medium and the second temperature adjustment medium in the heat exchanger based on the detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor, and detects an abnormality in the heat exchanger based on the derived estimated value of the heat exchange amount and the detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor.

[0114] According to (2), abnormality in the heat exchanger can be detected by comparing the estimated value of the heat exchange amount between the first temperature control medium and the second temperature control medium in the heat exchanger with the actual temperature change of the first temperature control medium in the heat exchanger.

[0115] (3) The vehicle temperature control system according to (1) or (2), wherein:

[0116] The second temperature adjustment circuit includes a radiator (radiator 622) for performing heat exchange between the second temperature adjustment medium and the outside air.

[0117] The detection unit detects abnormality in the heat exchanger based on detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor, and the third temperature sensor when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a predetermined value (TH0).

[0118] According to (3), in a structure in which the second temperature adjustment medium is cooled by the radiator, by using the detection values ​​of the temperature sensors in a state in which the temperature of the first temperature adjustment medium flowing into the heat exchanger is above a prescribed value, that is, in a state in which there is a certain degree of temperature difference between the first temperature adjustment medium and the second temperature adjustment medium, an abnormality of the heat exchanger can be detected more accurately.

[0119] (4) The vehicle temperature control system according to (3), wherein:

[0120] The second temperature adjustment circuit comprises:

[0121] a first branch flow path (first branch flow path 620b1) for the second temperature adjustment medium that bypasses the heat exchanger;

[0122] A second branch flow path (second branch flow path 62062) of the second temperature adjustment medium passing through the heat exchanger; and

[0123] a flow regulating valve (valve device 626) capable of regulating the flow of the second temperature regulating medium to the second branch flow path;

[0124] The detection unit controls the flow regulating valve so that the flow rate of the second temperature regulating medium to the second branch flow path becomes a first flow rate until the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor becomes greater than the specified value, and controls the flow regulating valve so that the flow rate of the second temperature regulating medium to the second branch flow path becomes a second flow rate greater than the first flow rate when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than the specified value, and then detects an abnormality of the heat exchanger based on the detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor, and the third temperature sensor.

[0125] According to (4), when the temperature of the first temperature control medium is lower than a predetermined value, that is, when the temperature difference between the first temperature control medium and the second temperature control medium is small and it is difficult to accurately detect an abnormality in the heat exchanger, the flow of the second temperature control medium into the heat exchanger can be restricted to suppress heat exchange between the first temperature control medium and the second temperature control medium, thereby raising the temperature of the first temperature control medium. Furthermore, after the temperature of the first temperature control medium reaches or exceeds the predetermined value, the restriction on the flow of the second temperature control medium into the heat exchanger is released, and heat exchange between the first temperature control medium and the second temperature control medium is initiated. By using the detection values ​​of the temperature sensors thereafter, an abnormality in the heat exchanger can be more accurately detected.

[0126] (5) The vehicle temperature control system according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein:

[0127] The second temperature adjustment circuit comprises:

[0128] a first branch flow path of the second temperature adjustment medium bypassing the heat exchanger;

[0129] a second branch flow path of the second temperature adjustment medium passing through the heat exchanger; and

[0130] a flow regulating valve capable of regulating the flow of the second temperature regulating medium to the second branch flow path;

[0131] The detection unit detects an abnormality in the heat exchanger based on detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor, and the third temperature sensor when the flow rate regulating valve is open, and

[0132] The detection unit detects an abnormality in the flow rate regulating valve based on detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor after performing control to close the flow rate regulating valve when no abnormality in the heat exchanger is detected.

[0133] According to (5), after confirming that there is no abnormality in the heat exchanger, the flow control valve is closed, and the abnormality of the flow control valve can be detected by comparing the temperature of the first temperature control medium flowing into the heat exchanger with the temperature of the first temperature control medium flowing out of the heat exchanger.

Claims

1. A temperature control system for a vehicle, wherein: The vehicle temperature adjustment system includes: a first temperature adjustment circuit having a first pump and circulating a first temperature adjustment medium; a second temperature adjustment circuit having a second pump and circulating a second temperature adjustment medium; a heat exchanger for performing heat exchange between the first temperature adjustment medium and the second temperature adjustment medium; a first temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the first temperature-adjusting medium flowing into the heat exchanger; a second temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the first temperature adjustment medium flowing out of the heat exchanger; a third temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the second temperature adjustment medium flowing into the heat exchanger; as well as a detection unit that detects abnormality of the heat exchanger based on detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor, and the third temperature sensor; The second temperature adjustment circuit comprises: a first branch flow path of the second temperature adjustment medium bypassing the heat exchanger; a second branch flow path of the second temperature adjustment medium passing through the heat exchanger; and a flow regulating valve capable of regulating the flow of the second temperature regulating medium to the second branch flow path; The detection unit detects an abnormality in the heat exchanger based on detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor, and the third temperature sensor when the flow rate regulating valve is open, and The detection unit detects an abnormality in the flow rate regulating valve based on detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor after performing control to close the flow rate regulating valve when no abnormality in the heat exchanger is detected.

2. The vehicle temperature control system according to claim 1, wherein: The detection unit derives an estimated value of the amount of heat exchange between the first temperature adjustment medium and the second temperature adjustment medium in the heat exchanger based on the detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor and the third temperature sensor, and detects an abnormality in the heat exchanger based on the derived estimated value of the heat exchange amount and the detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor.

3. The vehicle temperature control system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The second temperature adjustment circuit includes a radiator for performing heat exchange between the second temperature adjustment medium and the outside air. The detection unit detects abnormality in the heat exchanger based on detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor, and the third temperature sensor when the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a predetermined value.

4. The vehicle temperature control system according to claim 3, wherein: The detection unit controls the flow regulating valve so that the flow rate of the second temperature regulating medium to the second branch flow path becomes a first flow rate until the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor becomes greater than the specified value. When the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is greater than the specified value, the detection unit controls the flow regulating valve so that the flow rate of the second temperature regulating medium to the second branch flow path becomes a second flow rate greater than the first flow rate, and then detects an abnormality of the heat exchanger based on the detection values ​​of the first temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor, and the third temperature sensor.

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