Vehicle air conditioning device

Abstract

The vehicle air-conditioner of the present application realizes the comfort in the vehicle cabin without sacrificing the cooling of the battery. It comprises a temperature adjustment circuit (41) and a refrigeration cycle circuit (12). The temperature adjustment circuit (41) comprises a battery (45), a cold accumulator (46) and a heat exchanger (47). Before performing the scheduled charging of the battery (45), the temperature adjustment heat medium cooled by the heat exchanger (47) is used to accumulate in the cold accumulator (46), and when performing the scheduled charging of the battery (45), the temperature adjustment heat medium cooled by the cold accumulator (46) is used to cool the battery (45).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle air conditioning device. Background Art

[0002] As shown in Patent Document 1, in electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles, when the battery of the vehicle is rapidly charged, the battery is cooled using a refrigeration cycle for air conditioning.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-75248 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0007] In trucks and other vehicles, passengers sometimes rest in the cabin during charging, so it's possible that both battery cooling and cooling operation are being performed simultaneously. Therefore, if the cooling capacity of the refrigeration cycle is taken away by the cooling operation, the battery cooling capacity will be reduced, and charging time may be extended due to the reduced charging current.

[0008] The technical problem of the present invention is to achieve increased comfort in the vehicle cabin without sacrificing battery cooling.

[0009] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0010] A vehicle air conditioning device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes, in a vehicle equipped with a battery for supplying power to an electric motor, a cooling circuit that circulates a cooling heat medium; and a refrigeration circuit that circulates an air conditioning heat medium to perform air conditioning in a vehicle cabin, the cooling circuit including: a battery to be cooled; a cold storage device capable of storing cold; and a first heat exchanger that exchanges heat with the air conditioning heat medium of the refrigeration circuit, the vehicle air conditioning device having a circuit switching control unit that switches the circuit based on the state of charge of the battery, the circuit switching control unit storing cold in the cold storage device using the cooling heat medium cooled by the first heat exchanger before scheduled battery charging, and cooling the battery using the cooling heat medium cooled by the cold storage device during scheduled battery charging.

[0011] Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to the present invention, cold is stored in the cold storage device in advance, and the battery being charged is cooled by the cold storage device. Therefore, even if cooling operation is required, comfort in the vehicle cabin can be achieved without sacrificing battery cooling. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a vehicle air conditioning device.

[0014] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the heating operation.

[0015] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing the dehumidification and heating operation.

[0016] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing the dehumidification cooling operation.

[0017] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing the cooling operation.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of a vehicle air conditioning system.

[0019] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the pre-charge control process.

[0020] Figure 8 It is a mapping used for setting the threshold.

[0021] Figure 9 A flowchart showing an example of the control process during charging.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the cool storage operation before charging.

[0023] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing a battery cooling operation before charging.

[0024] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing the battery cooling operation (cold storage device) during charging.

[0025] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing a battery cooling operation (complete cooling) during charging.

[0026] Figure 14 A diagram showing a battery cooling operation (refrigeration cycle) during charging.

[0027] Figure 15 It is a diagram showing the battery cooling operation (cooling priority) during charging.

[0028] Figure 16 is a diagram showing a battery heating operation.

[0029] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing a vehicle air conditioning apparatus according to a second embodiment.

[0030] Figure 18 It is a diagram showing the cooling operation (cold storage device) during charging.

[0031] Figure 19 It is a diagram showing the battery cooling + cooling operation (refrigeration cycle) during charging. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The following describes embodiments of the present invention based on the accompanying drawings. Each drawing is schematic and may differ from actual design. Furthermore, the following embodiments illustrate devices and methods for embodying the technical concepts of the present invention and do not specifically define the structures described below. That is, the technical concepts of the present invention may be modified in various ways within the technical scope of the claims.

[0033] Implementation Method 1

[0034] "structure"

[0035] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a vehicle air conditioning device.

[0036] The vehicle is an electric vehicle, a plug-in hybrid vehicle, or other vehicle capable of charging a battery 45 from an external power source and using the electricity charged to the battery 45 to drive an electric motor for travel. A vehicle air conditioner 11 is mounted on the vehicle and driven by the electricity from the battery 45. The vehicle air conditioner 11 includes a refrigeration cycle 12 and an HVAC unit 13. Through heat exchange using an air conditioning heat medium, the vehicle air conditioner 11 selectively performs heating, dehumidifying and heating, cooling, and dehumidifying and cooling operations to provide air conditioning within the vehicle cabin.

[0037] First, basic components of the refrigeration cycle 12 will be described.

[0038] The refrigeration cycle 12 includes a compressor 21 , an outdoor expansion valve 23 , an outdoor heat exchanger 24 , an indoor expansion valve 25 , a heat absorber 29 , and a accumulator 27 .

[0039] Compressor 21 compresses the low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium in the gas phase and raises its pressure to a high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium that is easily liquefied. Compressor 21 is, for example, a scroll compressor or a swash plate compressor. Compressor 21 is driven by, for example, an electric motor. Compressor 21 is an oil-supplied type, lubricated by oil circulating with the air-conditioning heat medium. The oil concentration relative to the air-conditioning heat medium is approximately several percent.

[0040] The outdoor expansion valve 23 converts the liquid high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium into a mist and blows it out, thereby reducing the pressure to a low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium that is easily vaporized. The opening degree of the outdoor expansion valve 23 can be adjusted from fully closed to fully open.

[0041] The outdoor heat exchanger 24 is located inside the front grille of the vehicle body and exchanges heat between the outside air passing through the radiating fins and the air-conditioning heat medium passing through the tubes. The outside air is primarily wind from the vehicle. However, when there is insufficient wind from the vehicle, the blower 28 is driven to blow outside air to the radiating fins. During dehumidification and cooling operations, the outdoor heat exchanger 24 functions as a condenser, or radiator, exchanging heat between the outside air passing through the radiating fins and the high-temperature air-conditioning heat medium (heating agent) passing through the tubes. In other words, the air-conditioning heat medium in the tubes dissipates heat and condenses and liquefies.

[0042] The indoor expansion valve 25 converts the liquid high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium into a mist and blows it out, thereby reducing the pressure to a low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium that is easily vaporized. The opening degree of the indoor expansion valve 25 can be adjusted from fully closed to fully open.

[0043] Heat absorber 26 is installed within HVAC unit 13 and exchanges heat between the air passing around the fins and the low-temperature air conditioning heat medium (refrigerant) flowing through the tubes. Specifically, the air conditioning heat medium in the tubes absorbs heat and evaporates, cooling the air around the fins and causing condensation on the surfaces of the fins to dehumidify.

[0044] Gas-liquid separation is performed between the accumulator 27 and the air-conditioning heat medium, and only the air-conditioning heat medium in the gas phase is supplied to the compressor 21 .

[0045] Next, the basic circuit structure of the refrigeration cycle circuit 12 will be described.

[0046] In the figure, the flow path of the air-conditioning heat medium is indicated by solid lines. The outlet of compressor 21 is connected to the inlet of outdoor heat exchanger 24 via pipe 31b, and outdoor expansion valve 23 is installed in pipe 31b. The outlet of outdoor heat exchanger 24 is connected to the inlet of heat absorber 26 via pipe 31c, and indoor expansion valve 25 is installed in pipe 31c. The outlet of heat absorber 26 is connected to the inlet of compressor 21 via pipe 31f, and accumulator 27 is installed in pipe 31c.

[0047] Next, the basic structure of the HVAC unit 13 will be described.

[0048] The HVAC unit 13 (HVAC: Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) is arranged inside the instrument panel and is formed by an air duct that introduces external air and internal air from one end and supplies air to the vehicle cabin from the other end. Inside the HVAC unit 13, a blower fan 14, a heat absorber 26, and an air mixing damper 15 are provided. The blower fan 14 is provided at one end of the HVAC unit 13, and when driven, it draws in external air or internal air and discharges it to the other end. The heat absorber 26 is provided downstream of the blower fan 14. All the air blown out from the blower fan 14 passes through the heat absorber 26. Inside the HVAC unit 13, downstream of the heat absorber 26, a flow path 16 and a flow path 17 that bypasses the flow path 16 are formed. The flow paths 16 and 17 merge on the downstream side.

[0049] The air mixing damper 15 is rotatable between a position opening the flow path 16 and closing the flow path 17, and a position closing the flow path 16 and opening the flow path 17. When the air mixing damper 15 is in the position opening the flow path 16 and closing the flow path 17, all of the air passing through the heat absorber 26 passes through the flow path 16. When the air mixing damper 15 is in the position closing the flow path 16 and opening the flow path 17, all of the air passing through the heat absorber 26 bypasses the flow path 16. When the air mixing damper 15 is in the position opening both the flow path 16 and the flow path 17, a portion of the air passing through the heat absorber 26 passes through the flow path 16, while the remaining air bypasses the flow path 16. The air that passed through the flow path 16 and the air that bypassed the flow path 16 mix on the downstream side of the HVAC unit 13.

[0050] Next, the additional configuration will be described.

[0051] The vehicle air conditioner 11 includes a temperature control circuit 41 that circulates a temperature control heat medium to control the temperature of the battery 45. Temperature control means adjusting or regulating the temperature. The temperature control heat medium is, for example, water, but other fluids such as refrigerant and coolant may also be used.

[0052] First, main components of the temperature control circuit 41 will be described.

[0053] The temperature control circuit 41 includes a main pump 42 , a heater 43 , a heater core 44 , a battery 45 , a cold storage device 46 , and a heat exchanger 47 .

[0054] The main pump 42 sucks the temperature-control heat medium of the temperature control circuit 41 from one side and discharges it to the other side, thereby circulating the temperature-control heat medium.

[0055] The heater 43 is, for example, a water heater (ECH: Electric Coolant Heater) for heating the temperature adjustment heat medium.

[0056] The heater core 44 is provided in the flow path 16 and exchanges heat between the air passing around the radiating fins and the temperature regulating heat medium (heating agent) passing through the tubes. When the heated temperature regulating heat medium is supplied, the heater core 44 heats the air around the radiating fins.

[0057] The battery 45 is a storage battery for supplying power to the electric motor, and is, for example, a lithium-ion battery. The temperature of the battery 45 is regulated by flowing a temperature regulating heat medium through a water jacket formed on the battery 45 .

[0058] Cold storage device 46 is a device capable of storing cold that is allowed to reach a lower temperature than battery 45, and is, for example, at least one of a motor for driving the vehicle and a fuel tank. A temperature-regulating heat medium flows through a water jacket formed on cold storage device 46, thereby storing cold in cold storage device 46.

[0059] The heat exchanger 47 includes a temperature control heat medium flow path 47A through which the temperature control heat medium passes and an air conditioning heat medium flow path 47B through which the air conditioning heat medium passes, and performs heat exchange between a portion of the air conditioning heat medium in the refrigeration cycle circuit 12 and the temperature control heat medium in the temperature control circuit 41 .

[0060] Next, the circuit structure of the temperature adjustment circuit 41 will be described.

[0061] In the figure, the flow path of the temperature-control heat medium is indicated by a dotted line. The outlet of the main pump 42 is connected to the inlet of the heater core 44 via pipe 51a. The outlet of the heater core 44 is connected to the inlet of the main pump 42 via pipe 51b. The heater 43 and three-way valve 52 are provided in pipe 51a, in order from the main pump 42 side toward the heater core 44 side. In pipe 51b, branch points 53 and 54 are provided, in order from the heater core 44 side toward the main pump 42 side.

[0062] The inlet of the three-way valve 52 communicates with the heater 43, one outlet communicates with the inlet of the heater core 44, and the other outlet communicates via piping 51c with the inlet of the temperature-control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47. The outlet of the temperature-control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47 communicates via piping 51d with a branch point 54. In piping 51c, from the three-way valve 52 side toward the heat exchanger 47 side, a three-way valve 61, a battery 45, a branch point 62, a three-way valve 63, a cold storage device 46, and a branch point 66 are provided in this order.

[0063] The inlet of three-way valve 61 is connected to three-way valve 52, one outlet is connected to battery 45, and the other outlet is connected to branch point 62 via piping 51e (battery bypass flow path). The inlet of three-way valve 63 is connected to branch point 62, one outlet is connected to, and the other outlet is connected to branch point 53 via piping 51f. A three-way valve 68 is installed in piping 51f. The inlet of three-way valve 68 is connected to three-way valve 63, one outlet is connected to branch point 53, and the other outlet is connected to branch point 66 via piping 51g (cold storage device bypass flow path).

[0064] Next, additional components of the refrigeration cycle 12 will be described.

[0065] The refrigeration cycle 12 includes an expansion valve 55 and a heat exchanger 47 (first heat exchanger).

[0066] The expansion valve 55 reduces the pressure of the liquid high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium into a low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium that is easily vaporized by blowing the liquid high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium into a mist. The opening degree of the expansion valve 55 can be adjusted from fully closed to fully open.

[0067] Next, the additional circuit structure of the refrigeration cycle circuit 12 will be described.

[0068] In piping 31c, a branch point 56 is located between the outdoor heat exchanger 24 and the indoor expansion valve 25. In piping 31f, a branch point 57 is located between the heat absorber 26 and the accumulator 27. Branch point 56 communicates with the inlet of the air-conditioning heat medium flow path 47B in the heat exchanger 47 via piping 31g, and the outlet of the air-conditioning heat medium flow path 47B in the heat exchanger 47 communicates with branch point 57 via piping 31h. An expansion valve 55 is provided in piping 31g.

[0069] Next, the basic operation of the vehicle air conditioner 11 will be described.

[0070] The controller 71, for example, is a microcomputer. Based on user requests, it selectively executes various air conditioning modes—heating, dehumidifying and heating, cooling, and dehumidifying and cooling—to provide air conditioning within the vehicle cabin. To illustrate basic operation, the following describes the operation of the refrigeration cycle 12, the HVAC unit 13, and the temperature control circuit 41. Specifically, the controller 71 controls the operation of the compressor 21, the outdoor expansion valve 23, the indoor expansion valve 25, the expansion valve 55, the blower 28, the blower fan 14, the air mixing damper 15, the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the three-way valve 61, the three-way valve 63, and the three-way valve 68.

[0071] [Heating operation]

[0072] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the heating operation.

[0073] In the figure, the flow path through which the temperature adjustment heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dotted line.

[0074] Here, heating operation is performed by heater 43 while refrigeration cycle 12 is stopped. Specifically, in refrigeration cycle 12, outdoor expansion valve 23, indoor expansion valve 25, and expansion valve 55 are closed, and compressor 21 is stopped in this state. Meanwhile, in temperature control circuit 41, heater 43 is activated, driving main pump 42 and circulating the temperature control heat medium. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates sequentially through main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, heater core 44, branch point 53, and branch point 54.

[0075] Thus, the temperature-control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the heater core 44, the branch point 53, and the branch point 54. In this circulation path, the temperature-control heat medium absorbs heat at the heater 43 to reach a high temperature, and dissipates heat at the heater core 44 to reach a low temperature.

[0076] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and the air mixing damper 15 closes the flow path 17 while adjusting the ratio of air passing through the heater core 44. As a result, the introduced air is heated by the heater core 44, and the heated air is supplied into the vehicle cabin.

[0077] [Dehumidification and heating operation]

[0078] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing the dehumidification and heating operation.

[0079] In the figure, the flow path through which the low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dashed line, the flow path through which the medium-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dotted line, and the flow path through which the high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick solid line. Furthermore, the flow path through which the temperature-control heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dashed line.

[0080] Here, dehumidification is performed by the refrigeration cycle 12, while heating is performed by the heater 43. Specifically, in the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is slightly opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is closed, and the compressor 21 is driven in this state. Meanwhile, in the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is activated, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature control heat medium circulates. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, heater core 44, branch point 53, and branch point 54.

[0081] Thus, the air-conditioning heat medium circulates sequentially through the compressor 21, outdoor expansion valve 23, outdoor heat exchanger 24, branching point 56, indoor expansion valve 25, heat absorber 26, branching point 57, and accumulator 27. In this circulation path, the air-conditioning heat medium in the gas phase is compressed by the compressor 21 to a high pressure, expands to a medium pressure at the outdoor expansion valve 23, and condenses and liquefies by dissipating heat at the outdoor heat exchanger 24, reaching a low temperature. The air-conditioning heat medium in the liquid phase expands to a low pressure at the indoor expansion valve 25, absorbs heat at the heat absorber 26, evaporates, and vaporizes, reaching a high temperature.

[0082] The temperature-control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the heater core 44, the branch point 53, and the branch point 54. In this circulation path, the temperature-control heat medium absorbs heat at the heater 43 to a high temperature, and dissipates heat at the heater core 44 to a low temperature.

[0083] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and while the air mixing damper 15 tends to close the flow path 17, the ratio of air passing through the heater core 44 is adjusted. Consequently, the introduced air is dehumidified and cooled by the heat absorber 26, then heated by the heater core 44, and the dehumidified hot air is supplied into the vehicle cabin.

[0084] [Dehumidification cooling operation]

[0085] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing the dehumidification cooling operation.

[0086] In the figure, the thick dotted line indicates the flow path through which the low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes, the thick dashed line indicates the flow path through which the medium-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes, and the thick solid line indicates the flow path through which the high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes.

[0087] Here, the refrigeration cycle 12 performs a dehumidification and cooling operation. Specifically, in the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is slightly opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is closed, and the compressor 21 is driven in this state. Meanwhile, in the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is activated, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature control heat medium circulates.

[0088] Thus, the air-conditioning heat medium circulates sequentially through the compressor 21, outdoor expansion valve 23, outdoor heat exchanger 24, branching point 56, indoor expansion valve 25, heat absorber 26, branching point 57, and accumulator 27. In this circulation path, the air-conditioning heat medium in the gas phase is compressed by the compressor 21 to a high pressure, expands to a medium pressure at the outdoor expansion valve 23, and condenses and liquefies by dissipating heat at the outdoor heat exchanger 24, reaching a low temperature. The air-conditioning heat medium in the liquid phase expands to a low pressure at the indoor expansion valve 25, absorbs heat at the heat absorber 26, evaporates, and vaporizes, reaching a high temperature.

[0089] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and the air mixing damper 15 closes the flow path 16 while adjusting the rate of bypassing the heater core 44. As a result, the introduced air is dehumidified and cooled by the heat absorber 26, and dry, cool air is supplied to the vehicle interior.

[0090] [Cooling operation]

[0091] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing the cooling operation.

[0092] In the figure, the thick dashed line indicates the flow path through which the low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes, and the thick solid line indicates the flow path through which the high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes. During cooling operation using the refrigeration cycle 12, the compressor 21 is driven with the outdoor expansion valve 23 fully open, the indoor expansion valve 25 slightly open, and the expansion valve 55 closed.

[0093] Thus, the air-conditioning heat medium circulates sequentially through compressor 21, outdoor expansion valve 23, outdoor heat exchanger 24, branching point 56, indoor expansion valve 25, heat absorber 26, branching point 57, and accumulator 27. In this circulation path, the air-conditioning heat medium in the gas phase is compressed by compressor 21 to a high pressure. It then condenses and liquefies at a low temperature by dissipating heat at outdoor heat exchanger 24. The air-conditioning heat medium in the liquid phase expands at a low pressure at indoor expansion valve 25, absorbs heat at heat absorber 26, and evaporates and vaporizes at a high temperature.

[0094] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and the air mixing damper 15 closes the flow path 16 while adjusting the rate of bypassing the heater core 44. As a result, the introduced air is cooled by the heat absorber 26, and the cool air is supplied to the vehicle interior.

[0095] Next, the main control process of the vehicle air conditioner 11 will be described.

[0096] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of a vehicle air conditioning system.

[0097] Vehicle air conditioner 11 includes an information acquisition unit 72 and a scheduled charging unit 73 .

[0098] The information acquisition unit 72 acquires various types of information. For example, the internal air temperature is acquired by the internal air temperature sensor. The external air temperature is acquired by the external air temperature sensor. The amount of sunlight is acquired by the sunlight sensor. The temperature of the heat absorber 26 is acquired by the heat absorber temperature sensor. The air conditioner set temperature set by the user is acquired. The temperature of the heat medium for temperature regulation at the inlet side of the battery 45 is detected by the battery temperature sensor. The temperature of the battery 45 is detected by the battery temperature sensor. The remaining fuel level is detected by the fuel sensor. The temperature of the cold storage device 46 is detected by the cold storage temperature sensor. The charging status is detected by the charging sensor. The expected external air temperature during charging at the reserved charging station is acquired via network communication. Various data are input into the controller 71.

[0099] The charge reservation unit 73 receives a charge reservation for the battery 45 set by the user, and inputs charge reservation information including the time until the next charge into the controller 71 .

[0100] The controller 71 performs pre-charging control and charging control, and drives and controls the refrigeration cycle 12, the HVAC unit 13, and the temperature control circuit 41. Specifically, the controller 71 drives and controls the compressor 21, the outdoor expansion valve 23, the indoor expansion valve 25, the expansion valve 55, and the blower 28 of the refrigeration cycle 12. Furthermore, the controller 71 drives and controls the blower fan 14 and the air mixing damper 15 of the HVAC unit 13. Furthermore, the controller 71 drives and controls the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the three-way valve 61, the three-way valve 63, and the three-way valve 68 of the temperature control circuit 41.

[0101] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the pre-charge control process.

[0102] The pre-charge control process is executed as a timer interrupt process at predetermined time intervals.

[0103] In step S101, it is determined whether the battery 45 is in a non-charging state. If the battery 45 is in a charging state, the process returns to the predetermined main routine. On the other hand, if the battery 45 is in a non-charging state, the process proceeds to step S102.

[0104] In step S102, it is determined whether there is a charge schedule for the battery 45. If there is no charge schedule for the battery 45, the process proceeds to step S108. On the other hand, if there is a charge schedule for the battery 45, the process proceeds to step S103.

[0105] In step S103, it is determined whether the rotational speed Nc of the compressor 21 is less than a predetermined threshold value N1. Threshold value N1 is approximately 50% of the maximum rotational speed. If the rotational speed Nc is greater than threshold value N1, it is determined that the refrigeration cycle 12, which is performing cooling operation, has insufficient cooling capacity, and the process proceeds to step S108. On the other hand, if the rotational speed Nc is less than threshold value N1, it is determined that the refrigeration cycle 12, which is performing cooling operation, has sufficient cooling capacity, and the process proceeds to step S104.

[0106] In step S104, it is determined whether the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is higher than a predetermined threshold value T1. Threshold value T1 is the upper limit of the temperature at which cooling is determined to be unnecessary, and is, for example, approximately 40°C. If the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is below threshold value T1, it is determined that cooling of the battery 45 is unnecessary, and the process proceeds to step S106. On the other hand, if the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is higher than threshold value T1, it is determined that cooling of the battery 45 is necessary, and the process proceeds to step S105.

[0107] In step S105, the battery 45 is cooled using the cooling capacity of the refrigeration cycle 12, and the system returns to the specified main program. Specifically, to perform cooling operation using the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. In the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature control heat medium is circulated. In addition, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates in sequence through the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the three-way valve 61, the battery 45, the branch point 62, the three-way valve 63, the three-way valve 68, the branch point 66, the temperature control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54.

[0108] In step S106, a determination is made as to whether the time tn until the next scheduled charge is less than a predetermined threshold t1. Threshold t1 varies depending on the thermal capacity of the cold storage device 46, but is, for example, approximately several minutes to several tens of minutes. If time tn is greater than threshold t1, it is determined that it is too early to begin storing cold in the cold storage device 46, and the process proceeds to step S108. On the other hand, if time tn is less than threshold t1, the process proceeds to step S107.

[0109] The threshold value t1 may be a fixed value, but is preferably variable according to the expected outside air temperature during charging at the reserved charging station and the set temperature for cooling operation. Specifically, the threshold value t1 is set according to the expected outside air temperature and the set temperature by referring to a map.

[0110] Figure 8 is a mapping used to set the threshold.

[0111] (a) in the figure is a map for setting threshold value t1 based on the expected outside air temperature. Here, threshold value Tth is set to increase as the expected outside air temperature increases. Consequently, as the expected outside air temperature increases, cold storage in the cold storage device 46 begins earlier. (b) in the figure is a map for setting threshold value t1 based on the set temperature. Here, threshold value t1 is set to increase as the set temperature increases. Consequently, as the set temperature increases, cold storage in the cold storage device 46 begins earlier.

[0112] In step S107, the refrigeration cycle 12 utilizes its cooling capacity to store cold in the cold storage device 46, and the system returns to the designated main routine. Specifically, to achieve cooling operation using the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. In the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature control heat medium circulates. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, three-way valve 61, pipe 51e, branch point 62, three-way valve 63, cold storage device 46, branch point 66, the temperature control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54.

[0113] In step S108, normal air-conditioning operation is performed and the process returns to the prescribed main routine.

[0114] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the control process during charging.

[0115] The charging control process is executed as a timer interrupt process at predetermined time intervals.

[0116] In step S111, it is determined whether the battery 45 is in a charged state. Here, if the battery 45 is in a non-charged state, the process directly returns to the predetermined main routine. On the other hand, if the battery 45 is in a charged state, the process proceeds to step S112.

[0117] In step S112, it is determined whether the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is higher than a predetermined threshold value T2. Threshold value T2 is the lower limit for determining an abnormal temperature rise, and is, for example, approximately 50°C. If the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is below threshold value T2, it is determined that the temperature rise is not abnormal, and the process proceeds to step S114. On the other hand, if the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is higher than threshold value T2, it is determined that the temperature rise is abnormal, and the process proceeds to step S113.

[0118] In step S113, the battery 45 is completely cooled, and the system returns to the designated main routine. Specifically, in the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is closed, and the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. In the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature control heat medium circulates. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, three-way valve 61, battery 45, branch point 62, three-way valve 63, cold storage device 46, branch point 66, temperature control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47, and branch point 54.

[0119] In step S114, it is determined whether the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is higher than a predetermined threshold value T3. Threshold T3 is the upper limit at which cooling is determined to be unnecessary, and is, for example, approximately 40°C. If the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is below threshold T3, cooling is determined to be unnecessary, and the process proceeds to step S120. On the other hand, if the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is higher than threshold T3, cooling is determined to be necessary, and the process proceeds to step S115.

[0120] In step S115, a determination is made as to whether the temperature Tc of the cold storage device 46 is lower than a predetermined threshold value T4. Threshold value T4 is the upper limit for determining sufficient cooling capacity and is, for example, approximately several tens of degrees Celsius. If the temperature Tc of the cold storage device 46 is higher than threshold value T4, it is determined that the cold storage device 46 alone cannot provide sufficient cooling, and the process proceeds to step S120. On the other hand, if the temperature Tc of the cold storage device 46 is lower than threshold value T4, it is determined that the cold storage device 46 alone can provide sufficient cooling, and the process proceeds to step S116.

[0121] In step S116, the battery 45 is cooled by the cold storage device 46, and the system returns to the designated main routine. Specifically, to achieve cooling operation in the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is closed. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. In the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature control heat medium circulates. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, three-way valve 61, battery 45, branch point 62, three-way valve 63, cold storage device 46, branch point 66, the temperature control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54.

[0122] In step S117, it is determined whether the rotational speed Nc of the compressor 21 is less than a predetermined threshold value N1. Threshold value N1 is approximately 50% of the maximum rotational speed. If the rotational speed Nc is greater than threshold value N1, it is determined that the refrigeration cycle 12, which is performing cooling operation, has insufficient cooling capacity, and the process proceeds to step S119. On the other hand, if the rotational speed Nc is less than threshold value N1, it is determined that the refrigeration cycle 12, which is performing cooling operation, has sufficient cooling capacity, and the process proceeds to step S118.

[0123] In step S118, the refrigeration cycle 12 is used to cool the battery 45, and the system returns to the specified main program. Specifically, in the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. In the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature control heat medium is circulated. In addition, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates in sequence through the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the three-way valve 61, the battery 45, the branch point 62, the three-way valve 63, the three-way valve 68, the branch point 66, the temperature control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54.

[0124] In step S119, cooling of the battery 45 is prioritized within the refrigeration cycle 12, and the system returns to the specified main routine. Specifically, within the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is closed, and the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. In the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature control heat medium is circulated. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, three-way valve 61, battery 45, branch point 62, three-way valve 63, three-way valve 68, branch point 66, the temperature control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54.

[0125] In step S120, normal air-conditioning operation is performed and the process returns to a predetermined main routine.

[0126] Next, the main operations of the vehicle air conditioner 11 will be described.

[0127] [Cold storage operation before charging]

[0128] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the cool storage operation before charging.

[0129] In the figure, the flow path through which the low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dotted line, and the flow path through which the high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick solid line. In addition, the flow path through which the temperature adjustment heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dashed line. Here, a description will be given of the pre-charging storage operation that is executed when the time tn until the next scheduled charging is less than the threshold value tl in the state in which the refrigeration operation is implemented. In the refrigeration cycle circuit 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened, and the compressor 21 is driven in this state. On the other hand, in the temperature adjustment circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature adjustment heat medium is circulated. In addition, the respective three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature adjustment heat medium circulates through the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the three-way valve 61, the pipe 51e, the branch point 62, the three-way valve 63, the storage device 46, the branch point 66, the temperature adjustment heat medium flow path 47A of the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54 in this order.

[0130] Thus, in the air-conditioning heat medium, the gas-phase air-conditioning heat medium is compressed by the compressor 21 to become high-pressure, and is condensed and liquefied by performing heat release at the outdoor heat exchanger 24 to become low-temperature. The liquid-phase air-conditioning heat medium is expanded at the indoor expansion valve 25 to become low-pressure, and is evaporated and vaporized by performing heat absorption at the heat sink 26 to become high-temperature. In addition, a part of the liquid-phase air-conditioning heat medium is expanded at the expansion valve 55 to become low-pressure, and is evaporated and vaporized by performing heat absorption at the air-conditioning heat medium flow path 47B in the heat exchanger 47 to become high-temperature.

[0131] In addition, the temperature adjustment heat medium is heated at the storage device 46 to become high-temperature, and is cooled by performing heat release at the temperature adjustment heat medium flow path 47A of the heat exchanger 47 to become low-temperature. Then, the storage device 46, which has a large heat capacity, is cooled by the temperature adjustment heat medium, and performs storage.

[0132] On the other hand, in the HVAC unit 13, the supply fan 14 is driven, and the proportion of bypassing the heater core 44 is adjusted while the flow path 16 is made to be closed by the air mixing damper 15. Thus, the introduced air is cooled by the heat sink 26, and the cool air is supplied into the vehicle cabin.

[0133] [Pre-charging battery cooling operation]

[0134] Figure 11 is a view that shows the pre-charging battery cooling operation.

[0135] In the figure, the flow path for the low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium is indicated by a thick dashed line, while the flow path for the high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium is indicated by a thick solid line. Furthermore, the flow path for the temperature-control heat medium is indicated by a thick dashed line. Here, the pre-charging battery cooling operation, which is performed when the temperature Tb of the battery 45 exceeds the threshold value T1 while cooling operation is in progress, is described. In the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. Meanwhile, in the temperature-control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature-control heat medium is circulated. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature-control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, three-way valve 61, battery 45, branch point 62, three-way valve 63, three-way valve 68, branch point 66, the temperature-control heat medium flow path 47A of the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54.

[0136] As a result, the gaseous phase of the air-conditioning heat medium is compressed by compressor 21 to a high pressure. It then condenses and liquefies, reducing its temperature by dissipating heat in outdoor heat exchanger 24. The liquid phase of the air-conditioning heat medium expands at indoor expansion valve 25 to a low pressure. It then absorbs heat in heat absorber 26, evaporating and vaporizing, reaching a high temperature. Furthermore, a portion of the liquid phase of the air-conditioning heat medium expands at expansion valve 55 to a low pressure. It then absorbs heat in air-conditioning heat medium flow path 47B in heat exchanger 47, evaporating and vaporizing, reaching a high temperature.

[0137] The temperature-control heat medium absorbs heat at the battery 45 to a high temperature, and dissipates heat at the temperature-control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47 to a low temperature. Thus, the battery 45 is cooled by the temperature-control heat medium.

[0138] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and the air mixing damper 15 closes the flow path 16 while adjusting the rate of bypassing the heater core 44. As a result, the introduced air is cooled by the heat absorber 26, and the cool air is supplied to the vehicle interior.

[0139] [Battery cooling operation during charging (cold storage device)]

[0140] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing the battery cooling operation (cold storage device) during charging.

[0141] In the figure, the flow path for the low-pressure air conditioning heat medium is indicated by a thick dashed line, while the flow path for the high-pressure air conditioning heat medium is indicated by a thick solid line. Furthermore, the flow path for the temperature control heat medium is indicated by a thick dashed line. Here, the battery cooling operation (cold storage device) during charging, which is performed when scheduled charging is performed while cooling operation is in progress, will be described. In the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is closed. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. Meanwhile, in the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature control heat medium is circulated. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, three-way valve 61, battery 45, branch point 62, three-way valve 63, cold storage device 46, branch point 66, the temperature control heat medium flow path 47A of the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54.

[0142] As a result, the gaseous phase of the air-conditioning heat medium is compressed by compressor 21 to a high pressure, and condenses and liquefies to a low temperature by dissipating heat at outdoor heat exchanger 24. The liquid phase of the air-conditioning heat medium expands at indoor expansion valve 25 to a low pressure, and absorbs heat at heat absorber 26, evaporating and vaporizing to a high temperature.

[0143] The temperature-regulating heat medium absorbs heat from the battery 45 to a high temperature, and dissipates heat from the cold storage device 46 to a low temperature. Thus, the battery 45 is cooled by the temperature-regulating heat medium.

[0144] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and the air mixing damper 15 closes the flow path 16 while adjusting the rate of bypassing the heater core 44. As a result, the introduced air is cooled by the heat absorber 26, and the cool air is supplied to the vehicle interior.

[0145] [Battery cooling operation during charging (full cooling)]

[0146] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing a battery cooling operation (complete cooling) during charging.

[0147] In the figure, the flow path through which the low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dotted line, and the flow path through which the high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick solid line. In addition, the flow path through which the temperature-regulating heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dotted line. Here, the battery cooling operation (complete cooling) during charging, which is performed when the temperature Tb of the battery 45 is higher than the threshold value T2 in the state where the scheduled charging is performed, is explained. In the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is closed, the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened, and the compressor 21 is driven in this state. On the other hand, in the temperature regulating circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature-regulating heat medium is circulated. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature-control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the three-way valve 61, the battery 45, the branch point 62, the three-way valve 63, the cold storage device 46, the branch point 66, the temperature-control heat medium flow path 47A of the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54.

[0148] As a result, the gaseous phase of the air-conditioning heat medium is compressed by compressor 21 to a high pressure, and condenses and liquefies to a low temperature by dissipating heat in outdoor heat exchanger 24. The liquid phase of the air-conditioning heat medium expands at expansion valve 55 to a low pressure, and absorbs heat in air-conditioning heat medium flow path 47B in heat exchanger 47, evaporating and vaporizing to a high temperature.

[0149] Furthermore, the temperature-control heat medium absorbs heat at the battery 45, reaches a high temperature, dissipates heat at the cold storage device 46, and further dissipates heat at the temperature-control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47. Thus, the battery 45 is reliably cooled by the temperature-control heat medium.

[0150] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and the air mixing damper 15 closes the flow path 16 while adjusting the rate of bypassing the heater core 44. Thus, the introduced air is supplied into the vehicle interior.

[0151] [Battery cooling operation during charging (refrigeration cycle)]

[0152] Figure 14 A diagram showing a battery cooling operation (refrigeration cycle) during charging.

[0153] In the figure, the flow path for the low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium is indicated by a thick dashed line, while the flow path for the high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium is indicated by a thick solid line. Furthermore, the flow path for the temperature-control heat medium is indicated by a thick dashed line. Here, the battery cooling operation (refrigeration cycle) during charging, which is executed when the temperature Tc of the cold storage device 46 is above the threshold value T4 while scheduled charging is being performed, will be described. In the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. Meanwhile, in the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature-control heat medium is circulated. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature-control heat medium circulates sequentially through the main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, three-way valve 61, battery 45, branch point 62, three-way valve 63, three-way valve 68, the temperature-control heat medium flow path 47A of the heat exchanger 47, and the branch point 54.

[0154] As a result, the gaseous phase of the air-conditioning heat medium is compressed by compressor 21 to a high pressure. It then condenses and liquefies, reducing its temperature by dissipating heat in outdoor heat exchanger 24. The liquid phase of the air-conditioning heat medium expands at indoor expansion valve 25 to a low pressure. It then absorbs heat in heat absorber 26, evaporating and vaporizing, reaching a high temperature. Furthermore, a portion of the liquid phase of the air-conditioning heat medium expands at expansion valve 55 to a low pressure. It then absorbs heat in air-conditioning heat medium flow path 47B in heat exchanger 47, evaporating and vaporizing, reaching a high temperature.

[0155] The temperature-control heat medium absorbs heat at the battery 45 to a high temperature, and dissipates heat at the temperature-control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47 to a low temperature. Thus, the battery 45 is cooled by the temperature-control heat medium.

[0156] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and the air mixing damper 15 closes the flow path 16 while adjusting the rate of bypassing the heater core 44. As a result, the introduced air is cooled by the heat absorber 26, and the cool air is supplied to the vehicle interior.

[0157] [Battery cooling operation during charging (cooling priority)]

[0158] Figure 15 It is a diagram showing the battery cooling operation (cooling priority) during charging.

[0159] In the figure, the flow path through which the low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dotted line, and the flow path through which the high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick solid line. In addition, the flow path through which the temperature-regulating heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dotted line. Here, the battery cooling operation (cooling priority) during charging, which is performed when the temperature Tc of the cold storage device 46 is above the threshold value T4 while the scheduled charging is being performed, is described. In the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is closed, and the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened, and the compressor 21 is driven in this state. On the other hand, in the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature-regulating heat medium is circulated. In addition, each three-way valve is controlled so that the temperature regulating heat medium circulates in sequence through the main pump 42, heater 43, three-way valve 52, three-way valve 61, battery 45, branch point 62, three-way valve 63, three-way valve 68, branch point 66, temperature regulating heat medium flow path 47A of the heat exchanger 47, and branch point 54.

[0160] As a result, the gaseous phase of the air-conditioning heat medium is compressed by compressor 21 to a high pressure, and condenses and liquefies to a low temperature by dissipating heat in outdoor heat exchanger 24. The liquid phase of the air-conditioning heat medium expands at expansion valve 55 to a low pressure, and absorbs heat in air-conditioning heat medium flow path 47B in heat exchanger 47, evaporating and vaporizing to a high temperature.

[0161] The temperature-control heat medium absorbs heat at the battery 45 to a high temperature, and dissipates heat at the temperature-control heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47 to a low temperature. Thus, the battery 45 is cooled by the temperature-control heat medium.

[0162] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and the air mixing damper 15 closes the flow path 16 while adjusting the rate of bypassing the heater core 44. Thus, the introduced air is supplied into the vehicle interior.

[0163] Next, other operations will be supplementally explained.

[0164] [Battery heating operation]

[0165] Figure 16 is a diagram showing a battery heating operation.

[0166] In the figure, the flow path through which the temperature regulating heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dotted line. Here, the battery heating operation performed when the temperature of the battery 45 is lower than a predetermined threshold value is described. The refrigeration cycle 12 is set as an independent circuit and its description is omitted. In the temperature regulating circuit 41, the heater 43 is activated, the main pump 42 is driven, and the temperature regulating heat medium is circulated. In addition, each three-way valve is controlled so that the temperature regulating heat medium circulates in sequence through the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the three-way valve 61, the battery 45, the bifurcation 62, the three-way valve 63, the three-way valve 68, the bifurcation 53 and the bifurcation 54. In this circulation path, the temperature regulating heat medium becomes high temperature by absorbing heat at the heater 43, and becomes low temperature by dissipating heat at the battery 45. As a result, the battery 45 is heated by the temperature regulating heat medium.

[0167] As described above, battery 45 corresponds to the "battery," temperature control circuit 41 corresponds to the "cooling circuit," refrigeration cycle 12 corresponds to the "refrigeration cycle," and cold storage device 46 corresponds to the "cold storage device." Furthermore, heat exchanger 47 corresponds to the "first heat exchanger," and the processes of steps S101 to S108 and steps S111 to S120 correspond to the "circuit switching control unit." Furthermore, pipe 51e corresponds to the "battery bypass flow path," and a portion of pipe 51f and pipe 51g correspond to the "cold storage device bypass flow path."

[0168] Effects

[0169] Next, the main effects of the first embodiment will be described.

[0170] In trucks and other vehicles, passengers may rest in the cabin during charging, so it is possible that cooling of the battery 45 and cooling operation are performed simultaneously. Therefore, if the cooling capacity of the refrigeration cycle 12 is taken away by the cooling operation, the cooling capacity of the battery 45 will be reduced, and the charging time may be prolonged due to the decrease in charging current.

[0171] Therefore, the temperature control circuit 41 is provided with a battery 45, a cold storage device 46, and a heat exchanger 47. Before the scheduled charging of the battery 45 is performed (if S102 is determined to be "YES"), the temperature-control heat medium cooled by the heat exchanger 47 is used to store cold in the cold storage device 46 (S107). Thereafter, when the scheduled charging of the battery is performed (if S111 is determined to be "YES"), the temperature-control heat medium cooled by the cold storage device 46 is used to cool the battery 45 (S116).

[0172] Thus, cold is stored in the cold storage device 46 in advance, and the battery 45 being charged is cooled by the cold storage device 46 . Therefore, even if cooling operation is required, comfort in the vehicle cabin can be achieved without sacrificing cooling of the battery 45 .

[0173] Cold storage device 46 is a device that can reach a lower temperature than battery 45, and is, for example, at least one of the vehicle's electric motor and a fuel tank. If the device can reach a lower temperature than battery 45, sufficient cold storage performance can be ensured. Furthermore, since the electric motor and fuel tank are already existing components, their utilization can reduce cost increases compared to using new cold storage materials.

[0174] A pipe 51e is provided to bypass the battery 45, and the flow of the temperature-regulating heat medium through the pipe 51e or through the battery 45 is selectively switched. Specifically, the temperature-regulating heat medium is passed through the pipe 51e before scheduled charging, and is passed through the battery 45 during scheduled charging. This allows for easy switching between heat storage in the cold storage device 46 and cooling of the battery 45 by the cold storage device 46.

[0175] If the time tn until the next scheduled charge is less than the threshold t1 (YES in S106), cold storage in the cold storage device 46 begins (S107). This allows the cold storage device 46 to store sufficient cold before the scheduled charge starts.

[0176] Furthermore, as the expected outside air temperature during charging at the reserved charging station increases, the threshold value t1 is increased to accelerate the start of cold storage in the cold storage device 46. This allows the cold storage device 46 to store sufficient cold until the scheduled charging starts.

[0177] Furthermore, since it is expected that the lower the set temperature for cooling operation, the higher the outside air temperature at the charging station, increasing threshold t1 can accelerate the start of cold storage in cold storage device 46. This allows cold storage device 46 to store sufficient cold until the scheduled charging begins.

[0178] Furthermore, when the scheduled charging is being performed, the temperature regulating heat medium is circulated sequentially through the battery 45 and the cold storage device 46. Thus, the cold storage device 46 can cool the battery 45 during charging.

[0179] Furthermore, when scheduled charging is being performed, if the temperature Tc of the cold storage device 46 is above the threshold value T4 ("No" in S115), the air-conditioning heat medium cooled by the refrigeration cycle 12 is used to cool the battery 45 (S118 or S119). Thus, when the cooling capacity of the cold storage device 46 is lost, the battery 45 can be reliably cooled by switching to cooling by the refrigeration cycle 12.

[0180] A pipe 51g is provided to bypass the cold storage device 46, and the flow of the temperature-regulating heat medium through the cold storage device 46 or the pipe 51g is selectively switched. Specifically, while scheduled charging is in progress, if the temperature Tc of the cold storage device 46 is lower than a threshold value T4 ("Yes" in S115), the temperature-regulating heat medium is passed through the cold storage device 46. On the other hand, if the temperature Tc of the cold storage device 46 is higher than the threshold value T4 ("No" in S115), the temperature-regulating heat medium is passed through the pipe 51g. This allows for easy switching between cooling the battery 45 by the cold storage device 46 and cooling the battery 45 by the refrigeration cycle 12.

[0181] Modification

[0182] In this embodiment, the structure for heating or cooling the battery 45 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, in this embodiment, it is sufficient to at least cool the battery 45, so the structure for heating the battery 45 may be omitted.

[0183] In this embodiment, the cooling operation is performed during charging, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the cooling operation and the dehumidification cooling operation are the same in cooling the vehicle interior, so the dehumidification cooling operation can also be applied during charging.

[0184] In this embodiment, threshold value t1 is set to be variable based on the expected outside air temperature and the set temperature, but the present invention is not limited to this. When a fuel tank is used as the cold storage device 46, the greater the remaining fuel tank amount, the more cold can be stored. Therefore, threshold value t1 is set to increase as the remaining fuel tank amount increases, thereby accelerating the start of cold storage in the cold storage device 46. This ensures that the cold storage device 46 can store sufficient cold until the scheduled charging begins.

[0185] In this embodiment, the flow of the temperature control heat medium is switched in the temperature control circuit 41 using a three-way valve, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of providing a three-way valve, a two-way valve that can be opened and closed may be provided on each pipe, with one valve opening to close the other and the other valve closing to open the other.

[0186] While this embodiment describes a configuration in which the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully open during cooling, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a bypass flow path bypassing the outdoor expansion valve 23 may be provided, and this bypass flow path may be configured to be openable and closable. Thus, closing the outdoor expansion valve 23 and opening the bypass flow path during cooling can reduce pressure loss.

[0187] In this embodiment, the configuration in which the heating operation is performed using the heater 43 has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. If the refrigeration cycle 12 is a heat pump type, the refrigeration cycle 12 can also be used to perform the heating operation.

[0188] Implementation Method 2

[0189] "structure"

[0190] In the second embodiment, the heater core 44 (second heat exchanger) can be cooled by the temperature regulating heat medium cooled by the cold storage material 46. Other than this, the same configuration as the first embodiment is described above, and thus the same reference numerals are used for common configurations, and description thereof is omitted.

[0191] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing a vehicle air conditioning apparatus according to a second embodiment.

[0192] First, the components added to the temperature control circuit 41 will be described.

[0193] The temperature control circuit 41 includes a wheel pump 81 .

[0194] The branch pump 81 draws the temperature-control heat medium of the temperature control circuit 41 from one side and discharges it to the other side, thereby circulating the temperature-control heat medium.

[0195] Next, the circuit structure of the temperature control circuit 41 will be described.

[0196] In piping 51a, a branch point 82 is provided between the three-way valve 52 and the heater core 44. In piping 51c, a three-way valve 83 is provided between the cold storage device 46 and the branch point 66. The outlet of the slave pump 81 is connected to the branch point 82 via piping 51h. The inlet of the three-way valve 83 is connected to the cold storage device 46, one outlet is connected to the branch point 66, and the other outlet is connected to the inlet of the slave pump 81 via piping 51i.

[0197] In piping 51b, a three-way valve 84 is provided between heater core 44 and branch point 53. In piping 51c, a branch point 85 is provided between three-way valve 63 and cold storage device 46. The inlet of three-way valve 84 communicates with heater core 44, one outlet communicates with branch point 53, and the other outlet communicates with branch point 85 via piping 51j.

[0198] In piping 51d, a three-way valve 86 is provided between heat exchanger 47 and branch point 54. In piping 51a, a branch point 87 is provided between three-way valve 52 and branch point 82. The inlet of three-way valve 86 communicates with heat exchanger 47, one outlet communicates with branch point 54, and the other outlet communicates with branch point 87 via piping 51k.

[0199] Next, the main operations of the vehicle air conditioner 11 will be described.

[0200] [Cooling operation during charging (cold storage device)]

[0201] Figure 18 It is a diagram showing the cooling operation (cold storage device) during charging.

[0202] In the figure, the flow path for the low-pressure air conditioning heat medium is indicated by a thick dashed line, while the flow path for the high-pressure air conditioning heat medium is indicated by a thick solid line. Furthermore, the flow path for the temperature control heat medium is indicated by a thick dashed line. Here, the cooling operation (cold storage device) during charging, in which the cold storage device 46 performs cooling operation while the scheduled charging is in progress, will be described. In the refrigeration cycle 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is slightly opened, and the expansion valve 55 is closed. In this state, the compressor 21 is driven. Meanwhile, in the temperature control circuit 41, the heater 43 and the main pump 42 are stopped, and the branch pump 81 is driven to circulate the temperature control heat medium. Furthermore, the three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature control heat medium circulates sequentially through the branch pump 81, the branch point 82, the heater core 44, the three-way valve 84, the branch point 85, the cold storage device 46, and the three-way valve 83.

[0203] As a result, the gaseous phase of the air-conditioning heat medium is compressed by compressor 21 to a high pressure, and condenses and liquefies to a low temperature by dissipating heat at outdoor heat exchanger 24. The liquid phase of the air-conditioning heat medium expands at indoor expansion valve 25 to a low pressure, and absorbs heat at heat absorber 26, evaporating and vaporizing to a high temperature.

[0204] The temperature regulating heat medium dissipates heat in the cold storage device 46 to become low temperature, and absorbs heat in the heater 44 to become high temperature.

[0205] Meanwhile, in the HVAC unit 13, the blower fan 14 is driven, and the air mixing damper 15 closes the flow path 17 while adjusting the ratio of air passing through the heater core 44. As a result, the introduced air is cooled by the heater core 44, and the cool air is supplied to the vehicle interior.

[0206] [Battery cooling during charging + refrigeration operation (refrigeration cycle)]

[0207] Figure 19 It is a diagram showing the battery cooling + cooling operation (refrigeration cycle) during charging.

[0208] In the drawing, a flow path through which low-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dotted line, and a flow path through which high-pressure air-conditioning heat medium passes is indicated by a thick solid line. In addition, a flow path through which temperature adjustment heat medium passes is indicated by a thick dashed line. Here, a description will be given of battery cooling + cooling operation (cooling sequence circuit) at the time of charging when battery cooling and cooling operation are executed using the refrigeration cycle circuit 12 in a state in which charging scheduled is performed. In the refrigeration cycle circuit 12, the outdoor expansion valve 23 is fully opened, the indoor expansion valve 25 is closed, and the expansion valve 55 is slightly opened, and the compressor 21 is driven in this state. On the other hand, in the temperature adjustment circuit 41, the heater 43 is stopped, the main pump 42 is driven, the sub pump 81 is stopped, and the temperature adjustment heat medium is circulated. In addition, the respective three-way valves are controlled so that the temperature adjustment heat medium circulates through the main pump 42, the heater 43, the three-way valve 52, the three-way valve 61, the battery 45, the branch point 62, the three-way valve 63, the three-way valve 68, the branch point 66, the temperature adjustment heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47, the three-way valve 86, the branch point 87, the branch point 82, the heater core 44, the three-way valve 84, the branch point 53, and the branch point 54 in this order.

[0209] Thus, in the air-conditioning heat medium, the air-conditioning heat medium in the gas phase is compressed by the compressor 21 to become high-pressure, and is condensed and liquefied by performing heat release at the outdoor heat exchanger 24 to become low-temperature. The air-conditioning heat medium in the liquid phase is expanded at the expansion valve 55 to become low-pressure, and is evaporated and vaporized by performing heat absorption at the air-conditioning heat medium flow path 47B in the heat exchanger 47 to become high-temperature.

[0210] In addition, the temperature adjustment heat medium is cooled by performing heat release at the temperature adjustment heat medium flow path 47A in the heat exchanger 47 to become low-temperature, and is heated by performing heat absorption at the heater core 44 to become high-temperature.

[0211] On the other hand, in the HVAC unit 13, the supply fan 14 is driven, and the proportion passing through the heater core 44 is adjusted while the flow path 17 is made to be closed by the air mixing damper 15. Thus, the introduced air is cooled by the heater core 44, and the cool air is supplied into the vehicle cabin.

[0212] As described above, the heater core 44 corresponds to the "second heat exchanger".

[0213] <Effects>

[0214] Next, a description will be given of the main effects of the embodiment 2.

[0215] When charging scheduled is executed, the heater core 44 is cooled by the temperature adjustment heat medium cooled by the cold storage device 46. At this time, the heater core 44 functions as a heat sink, and thus, cooling operation using cold storage energy can be performed.

[0216] Furthermore, during scheduled charging, both the battery 45 and the heater core 44 are cooled by the temperature-regulating heat medium cooled by the heat exchanger 47. In this case, the heater core 44 functions as a heat sink, enabling both battery cooling and cooling operations using the refrigeration cycle 12.

[0217] The above description is based on a limited number of embodiments, but the scope of the rights is not limited to these. Variations based on the above disclosed embodiments will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0218] Label Description

[0219] 11 Vehicle air conditioning system

[0220] 12 Refrigeration cycle

[0221] 13 HVAC units

[0222] 14 Fan

[0223] 15 Air Mixing Damper

[0224] 16 flow path

[0225] 17 flow path

[0226] 21 Compressor

[0227] 23 Outdoor expansion valve

[0228] 24 Outdoor heat exchanger

[0229] 25 Indoor expansion valve

[0230] 26 Heat Absorber

[0231] 27 Reservoir

[0232] 28 Blower

[0233] 31b piping

[0234] 31c piping

[0235] 31f piping

[0236] 31g piping

[0237] 31h piping

[0238] 41 Temperature control circuit

[0239] 42 Main pump

[0240] 43 Heater

[0241] 44 Heater Core

[0242] 45 batteries

[0243] 46 Cold storage equipment

[0244] 47 Heat Exchanger

[0245] 47A Heat medium flow path for temperature adjustment

[0246] 47B Heat medium flow path for air conditioning

[0247] 51a Piping

[0248] 51b piping

[0249] 51c piping

[0250] 51d piping

[0251] 51e piping

[0252] 51f piping

[0253] 51g piping

[0254] 51h piping

[0255] 51i piping

[0256] 51j piping

[0257] 51k piping

[0258] 52 Three-way valve

[0259] 53 bifurcation point

[0260] 54 bifurcation point

[0261] 55 Expansion valve

[0262] 56 bifurcation point

[0263] 57 bifurcation point

[0264] 61 Three-way valve

[0265] 62 bifurcation point

[0266] 63 Three-way valve

[0267] 66 bifurcation point

[0268] 68 Three-way valve

[0269] 71 Controller

[0270] 72 Information Acquisition Department

[0271] 73 Charging Reservation Department

[0272] 81 slave pump

[0273] 82 bifurcation point

[0274] 83 Three-way valve

[0275] 84 Three-way valve

[0276] 85 bifurcation point

[0277] 86 Three-way valve

[0278] 87 bifurcation point.

Claims

1. A vehicle air conditioning device, in a vehicle equipped with a battery for supplying power to an electric motor, comprising: a cooling circuit that circulates a cooling heat medium; as well as A refrigeration cycle circuit circulates a heat medium for air conditioning to perform air conditioning in a vehicle cabin. The vehicle air conditioning device is characterized in that: The cooling circuit comprises: The battery requires cooling; Cold storage equipment capable of storing cold; and a first heat exchanger that performs heat exchange with the air-conditioning heat medium of the refrigeration cycle; The vehicle air conditioner includes a circuit switching control unit that switches the circuit based on the state of charge of the battery. The circuit switching control unit stores cold in the cold storage device using the cooling heat medium cooled by the first heat exchanger before executing the scheduled charging of the battery. When the scheduled charging of the battery is performed, the battery is cooled by the cooling heat medium cooled by the cold storage material.

2. The vehicle air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The cold storage device is a device that is allowed to become lower in temperature than the battery.

3. The vehicle air conditioning device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The cold storage device is at least one of the electric motor and a fuel tank.

4. The vehicle air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The cooling circuit has a battery bypass flow path, which bypasses the battery. The circuit switching control unit selectively switches whether the cooling heat medium passes through the battery bypass flow path or passes through the battery.

5. The vehicle air conditioning device according to claim 4, wherein: The circuit switching control unit causes the cooling heat medium to flow through the battery bypass flow path before executing the scheduled charging of the battery. When the scheduled charging of the battery is performed, the cooling heat medium is passed through the battery.

6. The vehicle air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The circuit switching control unit starts storing cold in the cold storage device more quickly as the expected outside air temperature during charging at the reserved charging station increases.

7. The vehicle air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The circuit switching control unit starts storing cold in the cold storage device more quickly as the set temperature of the cooling operation is lower.

8. The vehicle air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: When the scheduled charging of the battery is executed, the circuit switching control unit circulates the cooling heat medium sequentially through the battery and the cold storage device.

9. The vehicle air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: When the scheduled charging of the battery is performed, if the temperature of the cold storage material is higher than a predetermined threshold, the circuit switching control unit cools the battery using the air-conditioning heat medium cooled by the refrigeration cycle.

10. The vehicle air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The cooling circuit includes a second heat exchanger for performing heat exchange with air supplied into the vehicle cabin. When the scheduled charging of the battery is being performed, the circuit switching control unit cools the second heat exchanger using the cooling heat medium cooled by the cold storage material.

11. The vehicle air conditioning device according to claim 10, wherein: When the scheduled charging of the battery is being performed, the circuit switching control unit cools the battery and the second heat exchanger using the cooling heat medium cooled by the first heat exchanger.

12. The vehicle air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The cooling circuit includes a cold storage material bypass flow path for bypassing the cold storage material. The circuit switching control unit selectively switches whether the cooling heat medium passes through the cold storage material bypass flow path or passes through the cold storage material.

13. The vehicle air conditioning device according to claim 12, wherein: When the scheduled charging of the battery is performed, the circuit switching control unit causes the cooling heat medium to pass through the cold storage device when the temperature of the cold storage device is below a predetermined threshold value, and causes the cooling heat medium to flow through the cold storage device bypass flow path when the temperature of the cold storage device is higher than the predetermined threshold value.

Images