Energy storage battery thermal management unit, thermal management system and thermal management method

Abstract

The application provides a kind of energy storage battery thermal management unit, thermal management system and thermal management method, including the battery cell group consisting of multiple battery cells, internal heat transfer module, semiconductor thermoelectric sheet, external heat dissipation module, electronic control module and box, battery cell group, internal heat transfer module and electronic control module are all arranged in the box, external heat dissipation module is arranged outside the box, internal heat transfer module is in contact with battery cell, one side of semiconductor thermoelectric sheet is connected with internal heat transfer module, the other side is connected with external heat dissipation module.The beneficial effects of the present application are that a thermal management unit with reasonable structure and high stability is provided, which uses the combination of semiconductor thermoelectric sheet and thermal superconducting technology to exchange heat with battery cells, and then uses the external heat dissipation module to exchange heat with the semiconductor thermoelectric sheet, isolates the external heat dissipation module from the battery cells, ensures the heat exchange effect of the system, reduces the influence of the external heat dissipation module on the battery cells, and guarantees the safety and reliability of the system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of thermal management technology, and in particular to a thermal management unit, thermal management system and thermal management method for energy storage batteries. Background Technology

[0002] As various industries and sectors have increasingly higher demands for energy heating, they have placed stricter requirements on the stability of energy supply and the reliability of storage. Various types of energy storage systems have attracted much attention, among which electrochemical energy storage is the most widely used and mature. Lithium batteries are currently the most widely used type of electrochemical energy storage.

[0003] Because lithium batteries generate heat during operation, large-scale battery energy storage systems, especially highly integrated devices like containerized energy storage systems, require strict temperature control to prevent overheating, which could damage the batteries and lead to fires. Conversely, excessively low battery temperatures reduce charging and discharging performance and shorten battery lifespan. Therefore, a thermal management system is needed to manually control battery temperature.

[0004] Existing battery thermal management methods mainly include natural cooling, air cooling, liquid cooling, and direct cooling. The appropriate thermal management solution needs to be selected based on actual conditions, considering factors such as load capacity, space requirements, and manufacturing and maintenance costs. While natural cooling has a simple system structure and low manufacturing and maintenance costs, its heat exchange effect is poor. Air cooling is currently the most widely used thermal management method, with relatively low manufacturing and maintenance costs, but it occupies a large space and its heat exchange effect is worse than liquid cooling. Liquid cooling systems have good heat exchange effects and occupy less space than air cooling systems, but their manufacturing and maintenance costs are higher, and the liquid cooling pipes are in direct contact with the battery, posing a risk of liquid leakage. Direct cooling systems have even better heat exchange effects than liquid cooling systems, but due to the high-pressure operating conditions of the working fluid, higher pressure resistance requirements are placed on the pipes, posing a risk of leakage, and resulting in high manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0005] Therefore, a new type of battery thermal management system is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a thermal management unit, thermal management system and thermal management method for energy storage batteries that are structurally reasonable, highly reliable and can ensure uniform battery temperature.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows: an energy storage battery thermal management unit, comprising a cell assembly composed of multiple cells, an internal heat transfer module, a semiconductor thermoelectric element, an external heat dissipation module, an electronic control module, and a housing. The cell assembly, the internal heat transfer module, and the electronic control module are all disposed within the housing. The external heat dissipation module is disposed on the outside of the housing. The internal heat transfer module is in contact with the cells. One side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element is connected to the internal heat transfer module, and the other side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element is connected to the external heat dissipation module. The electronic control module is electrically connected to both the semiconductor thermoelectric element and the cell assembly.

[0008] The internal heat transfer module transfers the heat generated by the battery cell assembly to the semiconductor thermoelectric element when the semiconductor thermoelectric element is cooled, or transfers the heat generated by the semiconductor thermoelectric element to the battery cell assembly when the semiconductor thermoelectric element is heated.

[0009] The external heat dissipation module dissipates the heat generated by the semiconductor thermoelectric element to the outside when the semiconductor thermoelectric element is cooled.

[0010] Furthermore, the internal heat transfer module includes multiple thermal superconducting plates, multiple heating films, a heat-conducting plate, and a U-shaped thermal superconducting tube. Each cell has a thermal superconducting plate on each side, and a heating film is provided between each pair of thermal superconducting plates between cells. The multiple thermal superconducting plates are connected to the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube through the heat-conducting plate, and a semiconductor thermoelectric element is connected to each end of the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube. The electronic control module is electrically connected to the multiple heating films respectively.

[0011] Furthermore, the heating film includes an insulating protective film, a semiconductor electrothermal layer, and a temperature sensor. The insulating protective film is disposed on both sides of the semiconductor electrothermal layer, and the temperature sensor is disposed on one side of the heating film. Conductive strips are respectively provided on opposite sides of the semiconductor electrothermal layer, and the conductive strips are electrically connected to the electronic control module through electrode leads.

[0012] Furthermore, the semiconductor heating layer is an ITO semiconductor heating layer.

[0013] Furthermore, the battery cell assembly has an outer heating film on each side along the length of the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube. The outer heating film is electrically connected to the electronic control module, and a heat insulation plate is provided on the side of the outer heating film away from the battery cell assembly.

[0014] The present invention also relates to a thermal management system, including an energy storage battery thermal management unit as described in any of the above claims, and further including a main control unit and a heat pump unit. Multiple energy storage battery thermal management units are stacked and arranged on a cabinet located indoors to form a battery cabinet. The main control unit is electrically connected to each energy storage battery thermal management unit. The heat pump unit is used to provide a suitable ambient temperature for the energy storage battery thermal management unit.

[0015] Furthermore, the external heat dissipation module of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is a natural cooling external heat dissipation module. The natural cooling heat dissipation module includes a heat spreader, a heat sink, and a fixing frame. The fixing frame fixes the heat sink to the outside of the housing. The heat sink is connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element through the heat spreader.

[0016] The heat pump unit includes a compressor, a gas-liquid separator, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, and a four-way valve. The compressor and the first heat exchanger are both located outdoors, while the second heat exchanger is located indoors. The compressor is connected to one end of the gas-liquid separator, the other end of the gas-liquid separator is connected to the first end of the four-way valve, the second end of the four-way valve is connected to the other end of the compressor, the third end of the four-way valve is connected to one end of the first heat exchanger, the other end of the first heat exchanger is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger, and the other end of the second heat exchanger is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve.

[0017] Furthermore, the external heat dissipation module of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is an air-cooled heat dissipation module. The air-cooled heat dissipation module includes a heat sink, a heat sink air duct shell, and a heat spreader. The heat sink air duct shell fixes the heat sink to the outside of the housing. The heat sink is connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element through the heat spreader. The heat sink air duct shell is provided with an air inlet and an air outlet. The air inlet is connected to the air inlet of the battery cabinet's air inlet duct through an air inlet duct. The air outlet is connected to the air inlet of the battery cabinet's return air duct through an air outlet duct.

[0018] The heat pump unit includes a compressor, a gas-liquid separator, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a four-way valve, a filter, a fan, a heat exchange pipe, a main supply air pipe, and a main return air pipe. The compressor, gas-liquid separator, and first heat exchanger are located outdoors, while the filter, fan, heat exchange pipe, main supply air pipe, and main return air pipe are located indoors. The second heat exchanger is located in the heat exchange pipe.

[0019] The compressor is connected to one end of the gas-liquid separator, the other end of the gas-liquid separator is connected to the first end of the four-way valve, the second end of the four-way valve is connected to the other end of the compressor, the third end of the four-way valve is connected to one end of the first heat exchanger, the other end of the first heat exchanger is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger, and the other end of the second heat exchanger is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve.

[0020] The air inlet of the fan is connected to one end of the heat exchange pipe, the air outlet of the fan is connected to the main air supply pipe, the main air supply pipe is connected to the air inlet of the cabinet air inlet of each battery cabinet, the air outlet of the cabinet return air inlet of each battery cabinet is connected to the main return air pipe, and the main return air pipe is connected to the other end of the heat exchange pipe.

[0021] The air outlet of the fan is connected to the indoor environment through a gate valve, and the main return air duct is connected to the indoor environment through a filter and a gate valve in sequence.

[0022] Furthermore, the external heat dissipation module of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is a water-cooled heat dissipation module. The water-cooled heat dissipation module includes a housing heat exchanger, a fixing clamp, and a heat spreader. The housing heat exchanger is fixed to the outside of the housing by the fixing clamp. The housing heat exchanger is connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element through the heat spreader. The housing heat exchanger is provided with a water inlet and a water outlet. The water inlet is connected to the cabinet water inlet pipe of the battery cabinet through a water inlet hose. The water outlet is connected to the cabinet water return pipe of the battery cabinet through a water outlet hose.

[0023] The heat pump unit includes a compressor, a gas-liquid separator, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a third heat exchanger, a fourth heat exchanger, a water pump, an expansion tank, a heat exchange water pipe, a main inlet pipe, and a main return pipe. The compressor, gas-liquid separator, and first heat exchanger are all located outdoors, while the second heat exchanger, fourth heat exchanger, water pump, and expansion tank are all located indoors. The third heat exchanger is located in the heat exchange water pipe.

[0024] The compressor is connected to one end of the gas-liquid separator, the other end of the gas-liquid separator is connected to the first end of the four-way valve, the second end of the four-way valve is connected to the other end of the compressor, the third end of the four-way valve is connected to one end of the first heat exchanger, the other end of the first heat exchanger is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger via a valve, the other end of the second heat exchanger is connected to one end of the third heat exchanger, the other end of the third heat exchanger is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve, the other end of the first heat exchanger is also connected to one end of the third heat exchanger via a valve, one end of the fourth heat exchanger is connected to one end of the third heat exchanger, and the other end of the fourth heat exchanger is connected to the other end of the third heat exchanger.

[0025] One end of the heat exchange water pipe is connected to the inlet end of the water pump, and the outlet end of the water pump is connected to one end of the main inlet pipe. The main inlet pipe is connected to the cabinet inlet pipe of each battery cabinet, and the cabinet return pipe of each battery cabinet is connected to the main return pipe. One end of the main return pipe is connected to one end of the expansion tank, and the other end of the expansion tank is connected to the other end of the heat exchange water pipe.

[0026] The present invention also relates to a thermal management method, comprising:

[0027] Obtain the temperature of all battery cells, and take the maximum value Tmax and minimum value Tmin of the battery cell temperature;

[0028] When Tmax>T3, the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to cool the battery cell assembly, and the heat pump unit is controlled to cool.

[0029] When T3 > Tmax > T1, only the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to cool the battery cell assembly.

[0030] When Tmax < T1 and Tmin > T2, the cooling or heating function is not activated;

[0031] When T2 > Tmin > T4, only the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to heat the battery cell assembly;

[0032] When Tmin < T4 and T0 > T5, the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to heat the battery cell assembly, and the heat pump unit is controlled to heat the battery cell assembly.

[0033] When Tmin < T6 and T0 > T5, the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to heat, the heat pump unit is controlled to heat, and the heating film is controlled to work to heat.

[0034] When Tmin < T4 and T0 < T5, only the heating film is controlled to operate for heating;

[0035] Among them, T1, T2, T3, T4 and T6 are all preset temperature nodes, and T3 > T1 > T2 > T4 > T6; T0 is the outdoor ambient temperature, and T5 is the lowest outdoor ambient temperature at which the heat pump unit can work normally.

[0036] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: It provides a thermal management unit with a reasonable structure and high stability. This thermal management unit uses a combination of semiconductor thermoelectric and thermal superconducting technology to exchange heat with the battery cell, and then uses an external heat dissipation module to exchange heat with the semiconductor thermoelectric. The external heat dissipation module is isolated from the battery cell, which ensures the heat exchange effect of the system while reducing the impact of the external heat dissipation module on the battery cell, thereby increasing the safety and reliability of the system. Attached Figure Description

[0037] The specific structure and process of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the energy storage battery thermal management unit of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of the energy storage battery thermal management unit of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal heat transfer module and cell arrangement structure of the energy storage battery thermal management unit of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 This is an exploded structural diagram of the heating film of the energy storage battery thermal management unit of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the battery cabinet of the thermal management system using natural cooling in this invention.

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the logical structure of the thermal management system using natural cooling in this invention;

[0044] Figure 7 This is an exploded structural diagram of the air-cooled thermal management unit of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the battery cabinet of the air-cooled thermal management system of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct structure of the battery cabinet using the air-cooled thermal management system of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the air-cooled thermal management system of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the airflow direction of the air-cooled thermal management system used in this invention.

[0049] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the airflow direction of the battery cabinet using the air-cooled thermal management system of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the logical structure of the air-cooled thermal management system used in this invention;

[0051] Figure 14 This is an exploded structural diagram of the water-cooled thermal management unit of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the battery cabinet of the water-cooled thermal management system of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the water-cooled thermal management system used in this invention;

[0054] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the water flow direction in the battery cabinet of the water-cooled thermal management system of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 18 for Figure 17 A magnified view of part A in the diagram;

[0056] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the logical structure of the water-cooled thermal management system used in this invention;

[0057] Figure 20 This is a logic flowchart of the thermal management method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0059] Example 1

[0060] Please see Figures 1 to 4 A thermal management unit 1 for an energy storage battery includes a cell assembly composed of multiple cells 11, an internal heat transfer module 12, a semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, an external heat dissipation module, an electronic control module 15, and a housing. The cell assembly, internal heat transfer module 12, and electronic control module 15 are all housed within the housing. The external heat dissipation module is located on the outside of the housing. A window is provided on the side of the housing corresponding to the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13. The internal heat transfer module 12 is in contact with the cell 11, and one side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is connected to the internal heat transfer module 13. The other side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is connected to the external heat dissipation module. The electronic control module 15 is electrically connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 and the battery cell assembly. The electronic control module 15 can control the input power and power supply direction of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13. By changing the power supply direction of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, the cooling or heating of the side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 connected to the internal heat transfer module 12 can be changed. The electronic control module 15 monitors the status of the battery cell 11 in real time and controls the charging and discharging of the battery cell 11.

[0061] The internal heat transfer module 12 transfers the heat generated by the battery cell assembly to the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 when the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is cooled, or transfers the heat generated by the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 to the battery cell assembly when the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is heated.

[0062] The external heat dissipation module dissipates the heat generated by the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 to the outside when the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is cooled.

[0063] In this embodiment, the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is small in size and light in weight, making it particularly suitable for space-constrained environments. Furthermore, the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 has no moving parts, produces no noise, and boasts high reliability, long lifespan, and rapid cooling and heating. Compared to traditional compressor heat pump systems, the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 has a wider applicable temperature range. Since the cooling and heating efficiency of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is relatively low, this embodiment increases the heat flux density and improves heat transfer efficiency by increasing the temperature difference between the two sides of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 and the surfaces in contact with the object. This also enhances the response speed of the battery thermal management system and expands its applicable operating conditions.

[0064] The internal heat transfer module 12 includes multiple thermal superconducting plates 121, multiple heating films 122, a heat-conducting plate 123, and a U-shaped thermal superconducting tube 124. Each cell 11 in the cell assembly has a thermal superconducting plate 121 on both sides. A heating film 122 is provided between each pair of thermal superconducting plates 121 between cells 11. The multiple thermal superconducting plates 121 are connected to the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube 124 through the heat-conducting plate 123. A semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is connected to each end of the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube 124. The electronic control module 15 is electrically connected to the multiple heating films 122 respectively.

[0065] The battery cell 11 is tightly bonded to the thermal superconducting plate 121. In order to ensure thermal conductivity, thermally conductive silicone grease or thermally conductive phase change sheet or other materials that can improve thermal conductivity can be coated between the battery cell 11 and the thermal superconducting plate 121.

[0066] To ensure that the outer cells 11 can achieve the same cooling or heating effect, an outer heating film 125 is provided on each side of the cell assembly along the length of the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube 124. The outer heating film 125 is electrically connected to the electronic control module 124. At the same time, in order to reduce heat loss when the heating film 122 heats up and reduce the energy consumption of the system, a heat insulation plate 126 is provided on the side of the outer heating film 125 away from the cell assembly. Similarly, in order to prevent the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 from reducing energy consumption and doing useless work when working, the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is surrounded by heat insulation material 131, which can improve the effective power of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 when cooling or heating.

[0067] Since both the thermal superconducting plate 121 and the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube 124 are rigid surfaces, and the errors in roughness and flatness cannot be completely eliminated, direct contact between the two may generate a large gap thermal resistance. In order to reduce the heat density between the thermal superconducting plate 121 and the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube 124, a heat-conducting plate 123 made of flexible material with a high thermal conductivity needs to be set between the thermal superconducting plate 121 and the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube 124 to reduce the gap and air between the contact surfaces and improve the heat transfer efficiency between the two.

[0068] The thermal superconducting plate 121 and the U-shaped thermal superconducting flat tube 124 possess highly efficient heat transfer capabilities. When the battery cell 11 needs cooling, the thermal superconducting plate 121 and the U-shaped thermal superconducting flat tube 124 conduct heat from the surface of the battery cell 11 to the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 rapidly via heat flow and heat waves. Similarly, when the battery cell 11 needs heating, the thermal superconducting plate 121 and the U-shaped thermal superconducting flat tube 124 conduct heat from the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 to the surface of the battery cell 11 rapidly via heat flow and heat waves. The thermal superconducting plate 121 and the U-shaped thermal superconducting flat tube 124 carry and radiate heat through latent heat and energy level transitions, stimulating energy exchange at the microscopic atomic level. Heat is transferred from the inside out between the surface of the battery cell 11 and the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, achieving a highly efficient, energy-saving, low-cost, intelligent, simple, lightweight, compact, convenient, noiseless, stable, and reliable thermoelectric management method.

[0069] The heating film 122 of the internal heat transfer module 12 serves as an auxiliary heating element. When the ambient temperature is too low, the heat power provided by the heat pump unit or the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 cannot meet the temperature requirements of the battery cell. Therefore, the heating film 122 is powered on to generate heat, which is then transferred to the surface of the battery cell 11 via the thermal superconducting plate 121. The heating film 122 expands the applicable temperature range of the battery thermal management system, improves its applicability and reliability, and ensures stable battery operation in low-temperature environments.

[0070] The heating film 122 includes an insulating protective film 1221, a semiconductor electrothermal layer 1222, and a temperature sensor 1223. The insulating protective film 1221 is disposed on both sides of the semiconductor electrothermal layer 1222, and the temperature sensor 1223 is disposed on one side of the heating film 122. Conductive strips 12221 are respectively provided on opposite sides of the semiconductor electrothermal layer 1222, and the conductive strips 12221 are electrically connected to the electronic control module 15 through electrode leads.

[0071] Insulating protective films 1221 are tightly attached to both sides of the semiconductor heating layer 1222 to prevent electrical leakage and protect the semiconductor heating layer 1222. Two conductive strips 12221 are tightly attached to the surfaces of opposite ends on the same side of the semiconductor heating layer 1222. The conductive strips 12221 are composed of silver paste and copper strips. The silver paste is applied to the surface of the semiconductor heating layer 1222 that contacts the copper strip. The silver paste helps the copper strip and the semiconductor heating layer 1222 to make tight contact, reducing resistance and preventing poor contact that could lead to electrical sparks. Each of the two conductive strips 12221 is connected to an electrode lead. The electrode leads are connected to a power supply via a wiring harness, and the input power of the heating film 122 is controlled by the electronic control module 15. A temperature sensor 1223 is tightly attached to the outer surface of the insulating protective film 1221. An insulating pad 12222 is provided at the connection between the conductive strips 12221 and the electrode leads to prevent electrical leakage at the electrodes.

[0072] The semiconductor heating layer 1222 is an ITO semiconductor heating layer.

[0073] In addition to traditional heat conduction, convection, and radiation heat transfer, the heating film employing an ITO semiconductor heating layer also incorporates wave resonance heating technology, enabling efficient and rapid temperature rise of the battery cell. Compared to existing heating methods, it can shorten heating time by 3-5 minutes to achieve the desired effect. Compared to traditional heating wire heating films, the heating film using an ITO semiconductor heating layer provides more uniform heating temperature. Furthermore, compared to carbon-based ink heating films, the heating film using an ITO semiconductor heating layer has a longer service life and higher thermal efficiency.

[0074] As can be seen from the above description, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: It provides a thermal management unit with a reasonable structure and high stability. The thermal management unit uses the combination of semiconductor thermoelectric sheet and thermal superconducting technology to exchange heat with the battery cell, and then uses an external heat dissipation module to exchange heat with the semiconductor thermoelectric sheet. The external heat dissipation module is isolated from the battery cell, which ensures the heat exchange effect of the system, reduces the impact of the external heat dissipation module on the battery cell, and increases the safety and reliability of the system.

[0075] The present invention also relates to a thermal management system for thermal management of energy storage batteries, including an energy storage battery thermal management unit 1 as described above, and further including a main control unit and a heat pump unit. Multiple battery cabinets 2 and the main control unit are placed indoors, and multiple energy storage battery thermal management units 1 are stacked on each battery cabinet 2. The main control unit is electrically connected to each energy storage battery thermal management unit 1, and the heat pump unit is used to provide a suitable external ambient temperature for the energy storage battery thermal management unit 1.

[0076] Example 2

[0077] Please see Figures 5 to 6The external heat dissipation module of the energy storage battery thermal management unit 1 is a natural cooling external heat dissipation module. The natural cooling heat dissipation module includes a heat sink 1401, a fixing frame 1402 and a heat spreader 1403. The fixing frame 1402 fixes the heat sink 1401 to the outside of the housing. The heat sink 1401 is connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 through the heat spreader 1403.

[0078] One side of the heat sink 1401 is smooth, and the other side has fins. A heat spreader 1403 is in close contact with the smooth surface of the heat sink 1401, while the other side of the heat spreader 1403 is in close contact with the outer surface of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13. The function of the heat spreader 1403 is to rapidly diffuse and transfer the heat or cold energy from the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 to the heat sink 1401 in a two-dimensional plane via a vacuum phase change, thereby improving the heat transfer efficiency of the battery thermal management system. Thermal paste is applied to the contact portions between the heat sink 1401 and the heat spreader 1403, and between the heat spreader 1403 and the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, to reduce gap thermal resistance. A fixing frame 1402 is used to fix the heat sink 1401 and the natural cooling external heat transfer module to the outside of the housing, with the finned side of the heat sink 1401 facing away from the housing.

[0079] Preferably, the surface of the heat sink 1401 is electroplated or coated with a thermoelectric coating to enhance its heat radiation capability, and the emissivity and absorptivity of the coating are greater than 0.95. The heat sink 1401 radiates or absorbs heat into space or the environment in the form of heat waves, which can improve the cooling and heating effect by 5-10°C.

[0080] The heat pump unit includes a compressor 301, a gas-liquid separator 302, a first heat exchanger 303, a second heat exchanger 304, and a four-way valve 305. The compressor 301 and the first heat exchanger 303 are both located outdoors, while the second heat exchanger 304 is located indoors. To accelerate the heat exchange efficiency of the first and second heat exchangers 303 and 304, both are equipped with fans. The compressor 301 is connected to one end of the gas-liquid separator 302. The other end of the device 302 is connected to the first end of the four-way valve 305, the second end of the four-way valve 305 is connected to the other end of the compressor 301, the third end of the four-way valve 305 is connected to one end of the first heat exchanger 303, the other end of the first heat exchanger 303 is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger 304, the other end of the second heat exchanger 304 is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve 305, and a bidirectional throttling valve 306 is also provided between the first heat exchanger 303 and the second heat exchanger 304.

[0081] A heat pump unit is a highly efficient and energy-saving device that fully utilizes low-grade heat energy, converting it into high-grade heat energy while providing both heating and cooling effects. Compressor heat pumps typically achieve a cooling efficiency of 3 or higher and a heating efficiency of 4 or higher, making them among the most efficient heating and cooling devices currently available. However, the operating efficiency of a heat pump unit is easily affected by ambient temperature. Increased or decreased ambient temperature will affect the heating or cooling efficiency of the heat pump unit, leading to increased energy consumption or even malfunction. The use of the heating film 122 and the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, to some extent, compensates for the limitations of the heat pump unit itself in low-temperature environments, which can result in reduced energy efficiency and slower start-up of the battery thermal management system.

[0082] A row of battery cabinets is placed indoors, consisting of multiple rows of cabinets. Each row contains multiple battery cabinets 2, and each cabinet 2 has multiple energy storage battery thermal management units 1 stacked on top of it, employing natural cooling external heat dissipation modules. Indoor air exchanges heat with the working fluid of the heat pump unit through a second heat exchanger 304, controlling the indoor temperature and achieving thermal management of the batteries. By controlling the four-way valve 305 in the heat pump unit, the flow direction of the working fluid can be changed, switching between cooling and heating functions. The temperature of each battery cell 11 is fed back in real time to the electronic control module 15 or the battery management system (BMS), which then controls the cooling and heating of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13. The cooling and heating functions of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 are switched by changing the direction of the input current controlled by the electronic control module 15, and the heat transfer can be controlled by adjusting the input power of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, achieving precise temperature control of the battery cells. The battery management system (BMS) can adjust the airflow through the second heat exchanger 304 and the frequency of the compressor 301 in the heat pump unit, as well as control the power of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, so as to reduce the energy consumption of the system while maintaining the battery temperature within a suitable range and thus achieve energy saving.

[0083] The specific working process of the battery thermal management system using a natural cooling external heat dissipation module is as follows:

[0084] When the battery cell temperature is too high, the semiconductor thermoelectric element begins to cool. The inner side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element (i.e., the side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element that contacts the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube, the same below) begins to cool down. The heat from the battery cell is transferred to the thermal superconducting plate, which then transfers the heat to the inner side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element through the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube. The heat is transferred from the outer side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element (i.e., the side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element that contacts the external heat dissipation module, the same below) to the heat sink. The heat is then dissipated into the indoor air through the heat sink. At this time, the system is in cooling mode. The second heat exchanger absorbs the heat from the indoor air to cool it down, and then sends the heat to the outside through the first heat exchanger.

[0085] When the battery cell temperature is too low, the semiconductor thermoelectric element starts to heat up, and the inner side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element begins to heat up. The heat sink absorbs heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the outer side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element. The heat is then transferred from the inner side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element to the battery cell through the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube and the thermal superconducting plate. If the battery cell temperature still does not meet the requirements, or if the heat pump unit operates too inefficiently due to the low ambient temperature, the electronic control module turns on the power supply to the heating film and controls the heating film to perform auxiliary heating. At this time, the system is in heating mode. The first heat exchanger absorbs outdoor heat and transfers it to the indoor air through the second heat exchanger, thus raising the temperature of the indoor air.

[0086] This structure organically combines a heat pump unit, a heating film, and a semiconductor thermoelectric element. By utilizing thermal superconducting materials and an intelligent control system, it solves the problems of slow heat transfer, low efficiency, and instability in battery thermal management systems that rely on natural cooling. This greatly improves the heat transfer efficiency and response speed of the battery thermal management system, reduces the system's energy consumption and operating costs, expands the system's applicable operating conditions, and enhances the stability and reliability of the battery energy storage system.

[0087] Example 3

[0088] Please see Figures 7 to 13 The external heat dissipation module of the energy storage battery thermal management unit 1 is an air-cooled heat dissipation module. The air-cooled heat dissipation module includes a heat sink 1411, a heat sink air duct shell 1412, and a heat spreader 1413. The heat sink air duct shell 1412 fixes the heat sink 1411 to the outside of the housing. The heat sink 1411 is connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 through the heat spreader 1413. The heat sink air duct shell 1412 is provided with an air inlet 14121 and an air outlet 14122. The air inlet 14121 is connected to the air inlet of the cabinet air inlet duct 201 of the battery cabinet through an air inlet duct. The air outlet 14122 is connected to the air inlet of the cabinet return air duct 202 of the battery cabinet through an air outlet duct.

[0089] The heat sink 1411 has fins on one side and a smooth surface on the other. One side of the heat spreader 1413 is in close contact with the smooth surface of the heat sink 1411, and the other side is in close contact with the outer surface of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13. The function of the heat spreader 1413 is to rapidly diffuse and transfer the heat or cold energy from the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 to the heat sink 1411 in a two-dimensional plane via a vacuum phase change, thereby improving the heat transfer efficiency of the battery thermal management system. Thermal paste is applied to the contact portions between the heat spreader 1413 and the heat sink 1411, and between the heat spreader 1413 and the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, to reduce gap thermal resistance. The heat sink duct housing 1412 is used to fix the air-cooled external heat transfer module to the outside of the housing. The heat sink 1411 has fins facing away from the housing. The air inlet 14121 and the air outlet 14122 of the heat sink duct housing 1412 form a heat sink duct. The fins of the heat sink are arranged in the heat sink duct. The heat sink duct ensures that the air passes through the fins of the heat sink and makes full contact with the fins of the heat sink for heat exchange.

[0090] The heat pump unit includes a compressor 301, a gas-liquid separator 302, a first heat exchanger 303, a second heat exchanger 304, a four-way valve 305, a filter 308, a fan 307, a heat exchange pipe, a main supply air pipe 203, and a main return air pipe 204. The compressor 301, the gas-liquid separator 302, and the first heat exchanger 303 are located outdoors, while the filter 308, the fan 307, the heat exchange pipe, the main supply air pipe 203, and the main return air pipe 204 are located indoors. The second heat exchanger 304 is located in the heat exchange pipe.

[0091] The compressor 301 is connected to one end of the gas-liquid separator 302, the other end of the gas-liquid separator 302 is connected to the first end of the four-way valve 305, the second end of the four-way valve 305 is connected to the other end of the compressor 301, the third end of the four-way valve 305 is connected to one end of the first heat exchanger 303, the other end of the first heat exchanger 303 is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger 304, the other end of the second heat exchanger 304 is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve 305, and a bidirectional throttling valve 306 is provided between the first heat exchanger 303 and the second heat exchanger 304.

[0092] The air inlet of the fan 307 is connected to one end of the heat exchange pipe 308, the air outlet of the fan 307 is connected to the main air supply pipe 203, the main air supply pipe 203 is connected to the air inlet of the cabinet air inlet duct 201 of each battery cabinet, the air outlet of the cabinet return air duct 202 of each battery cabinet is connected to the main return air duct 204, and the main return air duct 204 is connected to the other end of the heat exchange pipe 308.

[0093] The air outlet of the fan 307 is connected to the indoor environment through a gate valve 309. The main return air duct 204 is connected to the indoor environment through a filter 308 and a gate valve 309 in sequence. The air intake and exhaust in the room are mainly used to regulate the indoor temperature. The air intake and exhaust volume in the room can be controlled by adjusting the opening of the gate valve.

[0094] Air enters the main return air duct 204 through filter 308 and merges with the air returning after heat exchange in the heat sink duct. The returning air exchanges heat with the working fluid in the heat pump unit in the second heat exchanger 304 and is then drawn in by the fan 307 and pressurized and sent out. Part of it enters the room, and part of it enters the heat sink duct through the main supply air duct 201 for heat exchange.

[0095] A row of battery cabinets is placed indoors. The row consists of multiple battery cabinet rows, each containing multiple battery cabinets 2. Each battery cabinet 2 has multiple energy storage battery thermal management units 1, each employing air-cooled heat dissipation modules, stacked on top of it. Each battery cabinet 2 is equipped with a cabinet air inlet duct 201 and a cabinet air return duct 202. The cabinet air inlet duct 201 includes one air inlet and multiple air outlets. The air inlet of the cabinet air inlet duct 201 is connected to the main air supply duct 203, and the air outlet of each cabinet air inlet duct 201 is connected to the heat sink duct shell of one of the energy storage battery thermal management units. Air inlet 14121 is connected; the cabinet return air duct 202 is provided with multiple air inlets and one air outlet. The air inlet of each cabinet return air duct 202 is connected to the air outlet 14122 of the heat sink air duct shell of an energy storage battery thermal management unit. The air outlet of the cabinet return air duct 202 is connected to the main return air duct 204. Air enters the air inlet 14121 of the heat sink air duct shell through the cabinet air inlet duct 201, and then enters the cabinet return air duct 202 from the air outlet 14122 of the heat sink air duct shell. During this process, heat exchange can be carried out with the heat sink in the heat sink air duct shell.

[0096] The battery management system (BMS) reduces system energy consumption to achieve energy saving by adjusting the airflow of the fan 307 and the frequency of the compressor 301 in the heat pump unit, as well as controlling the power of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, while meeting operating conditions and maintaining the cell temperature within a suitable range.

[0097] The specific working process of the battery thermal management system using an air-cooled heat dissipation module is as follows:

[0098] When the battery cell temperature is too high, the thermoelectric element begins to cool. The inner side of the thermoelectric element cools down, and the heat from the cell is transferred to the thermal superconducting plate. The thermal superconducting plate then transfers the heat to the inner side of the thermoelectric element through a U-shaped thermal superconducting tube. The heat is then transferred from the outer side of the thermoelectric element to the heat sink. The heat sink exchanges heat with the air in the heat sink duct, and the air absorbs heat. This air then merges with some indoor air through the duct and returns to the heat pump unit. At this time, the system is in cooling mode. The second heat exchanger absorbs heat from the air in the heat exchange pipe, cooling the air, and then sends the heat to the outside through the first heat exchanger. After cooling, the air is again sent to the indoor area and the heat sink duct by the fan through the main air supply duct. When the heat load is low and the outdoor ambient temperature is low, and there is no need to cool the indoor area, the heat pump unit does not need to be started. Only the fan is started, using the fan to directly draw air from the outside or inside and send it to the heat sink duct for heat exchange. The air that has absorbed heat is directly discharged outdoors, reducing the overall energy consumption of the system.

[0099] When the battery cell temperature is too low, the thermoelectric element begins to heat up, and the inner side of the thermoelectric element heats up. The heat sink exchanges heat with the air within the heat sink duct, absorbing heat from the air and transferring it to the outer side of the thermoelectric element. The heat is then transferred from the inner side of the thermoelectric element through the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube and the thermal superconducting plate to the battery cell. If the battery cell temperature still does not meet the requirements, or if the heat pump unit operates too inefficiently due to the low ambient temperature, the heating film can be activated for auxiliary heating. In this mode, the system operates in heating mode, with the first heat exchanger absorbing outdoor heat and transferring it to the air via the second heat exchanger, which then delivers it to the heat sink duct through the main air supply duct. When the heat load is low and the outdoor ambient temperature is high, and indoor heating is not required, the heat pump unit does not need to be started. Only the fan is activated, drawing air directly from the outside or inside and delivering it to the heat sink duct for heat exchange. The air, having absorbed the cold air, is then directly expelled outdoors to reduce the overall energy consumption of the system.

[0100] This structure organically combines a heat pump unit, a semiconductor heating film, and a semiconductor thermoelectric element. By utilizing thermal superconducting materials and an intelligent control system, it improves the air-cooled heat transfer structure, eliminating the need for air ducts between battery cells. This enhances the compactness of the battery module and solves the problems of large space occupation and low heat transfer efficiency in battery thermal management systems that use air cooling as the heat transfer method. It greatly improves the heat transfer efficiency and response speed of the battery thermal management system, reduces the system's energy consumption and operating costs, expands the system's applicable operating conditions, and improves the stability and reliability of the battery energy storage system.

[0101] Example 4

[0102] Please see Figures 14 to 19The external heat dissipation module of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is a water-cooled heat dissipation module. The water-cooled heat dissipation module includes a housing heat exchanger 1421, a fixing clip 1422, and a heat spreader 1423. The housing heat exchanger 1421 is fixed to the outside of the housing through the fixing clip 1422. The housing heat exchanger 1421 is connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 through the heat spreader 1423. The housing heat exchanger 1421 is provided with a water inlet and a water outlet. The water inlet is connected to the cabinet water inlet pipe 211 of the battery cabinet through a water inlet hose, and the water outlet is connected to the cabinet water return pipe 212 of the battery cabinet through a water outlet hose.

[0103] The outer surface of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 is tightly bonded to one side of the heat spreader 1423, and the other side of the heat spreader 1423 is tightly bonded to the surface of the heat exchanger 1421. The function of the heat spreader 1423 is to rapidly diffuse and transfer the heat or cold energy of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13 to the heat exchanger 1421 in a two-dimensional plane via a vacuum phase change, thereby improving the heat transfer efficiency of the battery thermal management system. Thermal paste is applied to the contact portions between the heat spreader 1423 and the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, and between the heat spreader 1423 and the heat exchanger 1421, to reduce gap thermal resistance. The heat exchanger is mounted on the outside of the housing using a fixing clip.

[0104] The heat pump unit includes a compressor 301, a gas-liquid separator 302, a first heat exchanger 303, a second heat exchanger 304, a third heat exchanger 313, a fourth heat exchanger 314, a water pump 315, an expansion tank 316, a heat exchange water pipe, a main inlet pipe 213, and a main return pipe 214. The compressor 301, the gas-liquid separator 302, the first heat exchanger 303, and the fourth heat exchanger 314 are all located outdoors, while the second heat exchanger 304, the water pump 315, and the expansion tank 316 are all located indoors. The third heat exchanger 313 is located in the heat exchange water pipe.

[0105] The compressor 301 is connected to one end of the gas-liquid separator 302. The other end of the gas-liquid separator 302 is connected to the first end of the four-way valve 305. The second end of the four-way valve 305 is connected to the other end of the compressor 301. The third end of the four-way valve 305 is connected to one end of the first heat exchanger 303. The other end of the first heat exchanger 303 is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger 304 via valve 317. The other end of the second heat exchanger 304 is connected to the third heat exchanger. One end of the first heat exchanger 303 is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve 305, and the other end of the first heat exchanger 303 is also connected to one end of the third heat exchanger 313 through valve 317. One end of the fourth heat exchanger 314 is connected to one end of the third heat exchanger 313, and the other end of the fourth heat exchanger 314 is connected to the other end of the third heat exchanger 313. A two-way throttling valve 306 is provided between the first heat exchanger 303 and the second heat exchanger 304.

[0106] One end of the heat exchange water pipe is connected to the inlet end of the water pump 315, and the outlet end of the water pump 315 is connected to one end of the main inlet pipe 213. The main inlet pipe 213 is connected to the cabinet inlet pipe 211 of each battery cabinet 2. The cabinet return pipe 212 of each battery cabinet is connected to the main return pipe 214. One end of the main return pipe 214 is connected to one end of the expansion tank 316, and the other end of the expansion tank 316 is connected to the other end of the heat exchange water pipe. To facilitate the maintenance of the expansion tank 316, a tank valve is provided at each end of the expansion tank. To ensure the reliability of the water pump 315, two sets of water pumps are connected in parallel to form a water pumping circuit. Each set of water pumps is equipped with a water pump valve at both ends.

[0107] A row of battery cabinets is placed indoors. The row of battery cabinets consists of multiple rows of battery cabinets. Each row of battery cabinets has multiple battery cabinets 2. Each battery cabinet 2 has multiple energy storage battery thermal management units 1 with water-cooled heat dissipation modules stacked on it. Each battery cabinet 2 is equipped with a cabinet inlet pipe 211 and a cabinet return pipe 212. The cabinet inlet pipe 211 includes one inlet and multiple outlets. The inlet of the cabinet inlet pipe 211 is connected to the main inlet pipe 213. The outlet of each cabinet inlet pipe 211 is connected to the inlet of the heat exchanger 1421 of the energy storage battery thermal management unit. The cabinet return pipe 212 has multiple inlets and one outlet. The inlet of each cabinet return pipe 212 is connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger 1421 of the energy storage battery thermal management unit. The outlet of the cabinet return pipe 212 is connected to the main return pipe 214.

[0108] Water enters the inlet of the heat exchanger 1421 through the main inlet pipe 213 and the cabinet inlet pipe 211, and then returns to the main return pipe 214 through the cabinet return pipe 212 from the outlet of the heat exchanger 1421, where it can exchange heat with the heat exchanger 1421.

[0109] After exchanging heat with the working fluid in the heat pump unit in the third heat exchanger 313 or with outdoor air in the fourth heat exchanger 314, the water is pressurized by the water pump 315 and enters each housing heat exchanger 1421 through the main inlet pipe 213. After heat exchange in the housing heat exchanger 1421, it returns to the third or fourth heat exchanger 313 or the fourth heat exchanger 314 through the main return pipe 214 for the next cycle. The expansion tank 316 is used for hydraulic balancing and venting, and also facilitates water replenishment and replacement. The second heat exchanger 304 is used to provide indoor cooling. The fourth heat exchanger 314 can directly use outdoor air as a heat source or cold source to provide heat or cooling to the system when the heat pump is not turned on, and under low load and outdoor ambient temperature conditions. The battery management system (BMS) reduces system energy consumption to achieve energy saving by adjusting the flow rate of the water pump 315 and the frequency of the compressor 301 in the heat pump unit, as well as controlling the power of the semiconductor thermoelectric element 13, while meeting operating conditions and maintaining the temperature of the battery cells within a suitable range.

[0110] The specific working process of the battery thermal management system using a water-cooled heat dissipation module is as follows:

[0111] When the battery cell temperature is too high, the semiconductor thermoelectric element begins to cool. The inner side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element cools down, and the heat from the cell is transferred to the thermal superconducting plate. The thermal superconducting plate transfers the heat to the inner side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element through a U-shaped thermal superconducting tube. The heat is then transferred from the outer side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element to the heat exchanger in the housing. Water undergoes heat exchange and absorbs heat within the heat exchanger. The water then flows back to the heat pump unit via the cabinet return pipe and the main return pipe. At this time, the system is in cooling mode. The third heat exchanger absorbs the heat from the water in the heat exchange water pipe, lowering the water temperature. The heat is then discharged to the outside through the first heat exchanger. The water pump then sends the cooled water back to the housing heat exchanger via the main inlet pipe and the cabinet inlet pipe for heat exchange. When the heat load is low and the outdoor ambient temperature is low, and there is no need to cool the room, the heat pump unit is not activated; only the water pump is activated. The water bypasses the third heat exchanger and flows through the fourth heat exchanger to exchange heat with the outdoor air and release heat to cool down.

[0112] When the battery cell temperature is too low, the semiconductor thermoelectric element begins to heat up, and the inner side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element starts to heat up. The heat exchanger in the housing absorbs heat from the water and transfers it to the outer side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element. The heat is then transferred from the inner side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element through the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube and the thermal superconducting plate to the battery cell. If the battery cell temperature still does not meet the requirements, or if the heat pump system operates too inefficiently due to the low ambient temperature, the heating film can be controlled to provide auxiliary heating. In this case, the system is in heating mode. The first heat exchanger absorbs outdoor heat and transfers it to the water through the third heat exchanger, and then sequentially sends it to the housing heat exchanger through the main water inlet pipe and the housing water inlet pipe. When the heat load is not high and the outdoor ambient temperature is high, and there is no need for indoor heating, the heat pump unit is not started; only the water pump is started. The water does not pass through the third heat exchanger but flows through the fourth heat exchanger to exchange heat with the outdoor air and absorb heat to raise its temperature.

[0113] This structure organically combines a heat pump unit, a semiconductor heating film, and a semiconductor thermoelectric element. By utilizing thermal superconducting materials and an intelligent control system, it improves the water-cooled heat transfer structure, eliminating the need for water channels between battery cells, thus increasing the compactness of the battery module, avoiding the risk of water leakage within the battery module, simplifying the piping system, and greatly enhancing the heat transfer efficiency, response speed, and safety factor of the battery thermal management system that uses water cooling as the heat transfer method. It also reduces the system's energy consumption and operating costs, expands the system's applicable operating conditions, and improves the stability and reliability of the battery energy storage system.

[0114] Please see Figure 20 The present invention also relates to a thermal management method for thermal management of energy storage batteries, comprising:

[0115] Obtain the temperature of all battery cells, and take the maximum value Tmax and minimum value Tmin of the battery cell temperature;

[0116] When Tmax>T3, the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to cool the battery cell assembly, and the heat pump unit is controlled to cool.

[0117] When T3 > Tmax > T1, only the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to cool the battery cell assembly.

[0118] When Tmax < T1 and Tmin > T2, the cooling or heating function is not activated;

[0119] When T2 > Tmin > T4, only the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to heat the battery cell assembly;

[0120] When Tmin < T4 and T0 > T5, the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to heat the battery cell assembly, and the heat pump unit is controlled to heat the battery cell assembly.

[0121] When Tmin < T6 and T0 > T5, the semiconductor thermoelectric element is controlled to heat, the heat pump unit is controlled to heat, and the heating film is controlled to work to heat.

[0122] When Tmin < T4 and T0 < T5, only control the heating film to work for heating;

[0123] Among them, T1, T2, T3, T4, and T6 are all preset temperature nodes, and T3 > T1 > T2 > T4 > T6; T0 is the outdoor ambient temperature, and T5 is the lowest outdoor ambient temperature when the heat pump unit can work normally.

[0124] When Tmax < T1 and Tmin > T2, the system does not need to turn on the heating and cooling functions, and the system only monitors the status of the battery in real time.

[0125] In the above, Tmax and Tmin are determined according to the specific type of battery and the suitable operating temperature corresponding to the battery, and T5 is determined according to the actual working conditions of the heat pump unit. If T5 is set too low, there may be problems such as high heating power and high energy consumption. T1, T2, T3, T4, and T6 are comprehensively determined according to the type of thermal management system, such as natural cooling thermal management system, air cooling thermal management system, and water cooling thermal management system, combined with the battery scale and other situations.

[0126] In this embodiment, all battery status and temperature information are collected, including the maximum value Tmax and the minimum value Tmin of the cell temperature, and the relevant information is sent to the electronic control system.

[0127] Judge whether the cell temperature is greater than T1. When the cell temperature is greater than T1, control the semiconductor thermoelectric sheet to refrigerate, and further judge whether the cell temperature is greater than T3. When the cell temperature is greater than T3, control the heat pump to refrigerate, and return to the step of judging whether the cell temperature is greater than T3;

[0128] When the cell temperature is less than T3, judge whether the heat pump is working. If the heat pump is not working, return to the step of judging whether the cell temperature is greater than T1; if the heat pump is in the working state, control the heat pump to stop working and return to the step of judging whether the cell temperature is greater than T1;

[0129] In the step of judging whether the cell temperature is greater than T1, if the cell temperature is less than T1, then judge whether the cell temperature is less than T2. When the cell temperature is greater than T2, control the semiconductor thermoelectric sheet to heat, and further judge whether the cell temperature is less than T4. When the cell temperature is less than T4, judge whether the outdoor ambient temperature T0 is greater than T5. When the outdoor ambient temperature T0 is greater than T5, control the heat pump to heat, and further judge whether the cell temperature is less than T6. When the cell temperature is less than T6, control the heating film to heat;

[0130] In the step of judging whether the outdoor ambient temperature T0 is greater than T5, when the outdoor ambient temperature T0 is not greater than T5, control the heating film to heat and return to the step of judging whether the cell temperature is less than T4;

[0131] In the step of determining whether the cell temperature is less than T6, if the cell temperature is not less than T6, return to the step of determining whether the cell temperature is less than T4.

[0132] In the step of determining whether the cell temperature is less than T4, if the cell temperature is not less than T4, determine whether the heating film is working. If the heating film is working, control the heating film to stop working and determine whether the heat pump is working. If the heat pump is working, control the heat pump to stop working and return to the step of determining whether the cell temperature is less than T2.

[0133] In the step of determining whether the heating film is working, if the heating film is not working, then proceed to the step of determining whether the heat pump is working.

[0134] In the step of determining whether the heat pump is in working condition, if the heat pump is not in working condition, then return to the step of determining whether the cell temperature is less than T2.

[0135] In the step of determining whether the cell temperature is less than T2, if the cell temperature is not less than T2, then it is further determined whether the semiconductor thermoelectric element is in working state. If the semiconductor thermoelectric element is not in working state, then it returns to the step of collecting all battery status and temperature information; if the semiconductor thermoelectric element is in working state, then it controls the semiconductor thermoelectric element to stop working and returns to the step of collecting all battery status and temperature information.

[0136] This invention represents an integrated innovation of new materials, new technologies, and new energy sources at the mechanistic level. It involves the system integration of high-precision devices such as MEMS, semiconductors, formulations, chemicals, and solid-liquid-gas three-phase superconductors. It modifies and improves the existing three thermal management methods of natural cooling, air cooling, and water cooling, thereby enhancing the heat exchange effect of the system and improving the system's operational stability.

[0137] The above description is merely an embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made based on the content of the present invention's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A thermal management unit for an energy storage battery, characterized in that: The device includes a battery cell assembly consisting of multiple battery cells, an internal heat transfer module, a semiconductor thermoelectric element, an external heat dissipation module, an electronic control module, and a housing. The battery cell assembly, internal heat transfer module, and electronic control module are all housed within the housing. The external heat dissipation module is located on the outside of the housing. The internal heat transfer module is in contact with the battery cells. One side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element is connected to the internal heat transfer module, and the other side of the semiconductor thermoelectric element is connected to the external heat dissipation module. The electronic control module is electrically connected to both the semiconductor thermoelectric element and the battery cell assembly. The internal heat transfer module transfers the heat generated by the battery cell assembly to the semiconductor thermoelectric element when the semiconductor thermoelectric element is cooled, or transfers the heat generated by the semiconductor thermoelectric element to the battery cell assembly when the semiconductor thermoelectric element is heated. The internal heat transfer module includes multiple thermal superconducting plates, multiple heating films, a heat-conducting plate, and a U-shaped thermal superconducting tube. Each battery cell has a thermal superconducting plate on each side, and a heating film is placed between each pair of thermal superconducting plates between battery cells. The multiple thermal superconducting plates are connected to the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube through the heat-conducting plate, and a semiconductor thermoelectric element is connected to each end of the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube. The electronic control module is electrically connected to the multiple heating films. The external heat dissipation module dissipates the heat generated by the semiconductor thermoelectric element to the outside when the semiconductor thermoelectric element is cooled.

2. The energy storage battery thermal management unit as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The heating film includes an insulating protective film, a semiconductor electrothermal layer, and a temperature sensor. The insulating protective film is disposed on both sides of the semiconductor electrothermal layer, and the temperature sensor is disposed on one side of the heating film. Conductive strips are respectively provided on opposite sides of the semiconductor electrothermal layer, and the conductive strips are electrically connected to the electronic control module through electrode leads.

3. The energy storage battery thermal management unit as described in claim 2, characterized in that: The semiconductor heating layer is an ITO semiconductor heating layer.

4. The energy storage battery thermal management unit as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The battery cell assembly has an outer heating film on each side along the length of the U-shaped thermal superconducting tube. The outer heating film is electrically connected to the electronic control module. The outer heating film has a heat insulation plate on the side away from the battery cell assembly.

5. A thermal management system, characterized in that: The device includes the energy storage battery thermal management unit as described in any one of claims 1-4, and further includes a main control unit and a heat pump unit. Multiple energy storage battery thermal management units are stacked and arranged on a cabinet located indoors to form a battery cabinet. The main control unit is electrically connected to each energy storage battery thermal management unit. The heat pump unit is used to provide a suitable ambient temperature for the energy storage battery thermal management unit.

6. The thermal management system as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The external heat dissipation module of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is a natural cooling external heat dissipation module. The natural cooling heat dissipation module includes a heat spreader, a heat sink, and a fixing frame. The fixing frame fixes the heat sink to the outside of the housing. The heat sink is connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element through the heat spreader. The heat pump unit includes a compressor, a gas-liquid separator, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, and a four-way valve. The compressor and the first heat exchanger are both located outdoors, while the second heat exchanger is located indoors. The compressor is connected to one end of the gas-liquid separator, the other end of the gas-liquid separator is connected to the first end of the four-way valve, the second end of the four-way valve is connected to the other end of the compressor, the third end of the four-way valve is connected to one end of the first heat exchanger, the other end of the first heat exchanger is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger, and the other end of the second heat exchanger is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve.

7. The thermal management system as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The external heat dissipation module of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is an air-cooled heat dissipation module. The air-cooled heat dissipation module includes a heat sink, a heat sink air duct shell, and a heat spreader. The heat sink air duct shell fixes the heat sink to the outside of the housing. The heat sink is connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element through the heat spreader. The heat sink air duct shell has an air inlet and an air outlet. The air inlet is connected to the air inlet of the battery cabinet's air inlet duct through an air inlet duct. The air outlet is connected to the air inlet of the battery cabinet's return air duct through an air outlet duct. The heat pump unit includes a compressor, a gas-liquid separator, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a four-way valve, a filter, a fan, a heat exchange pipe, a main supply air pipe, and a main return air pipe. The compressor, gas-liquid separator, and first heat exchanger are located outdoors, while the filter, fan, heat exchange pipe, main supply air pipe, and main return air pipe are located indoors. The second heat exchanger is located in the heat exchange pipe. The compressor is connected to one end of the gas-liquid separator, the other end of the gas-liquid separator is connected to the first end of the four-way valve, the second end of the four-way valve is connected to the other end of the compressor, the third end of the four-way valve is connected to one end of the first heat exchanger, the other end of the first heat exchanger is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger, and the other end of the second heat exchanger is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve. The air inlet of the fan is connected to one end of the heat exchange pipe, the air outlet of the fan is connected to the main air supply pipe, the main air supply pipe is connected to the air inlet of the cabinet air inlet of each battery cabinet, the air outlet of the cabinet return air inlet of each battery cabinet is connected to the main return air pipe, and the main return air pipe is connected to the other end of the heat exchange pipe. The air outlet of the fan is connected to the indoor environment through a gate valve, and the main return air duct is connected to the indoor environment through a filter and a gate valve in sequence.

8. The thermal management system as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The external heat dissipation module of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is a water-cooled heat dissipation module. The water-cooled heat dissipation module includes a housing heat exchanger, a fixing clamp, and a heat spreader. The housing heat exchanger is fixed to the outside of the housing by the fixing clamp. The housing heat exchanger is connected to the semiconductor thermoelectric element through the heat spreader. The housing heat exchanger has a water inlet and a water outlet. The water inlet is connected to the cabinet water inlet pipe of the battery cabinet through a water inlet hose. The water outlet is connected to the cabinet water return pipe of the battery cabinet through a water outlet hose. The heat pump unit includes a compressor, a gas-liquid separator, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a third heat exchanger, a fourth heat exchanger, a water pump, an expansion tank, a heat exchange water pipe, a main inlet pipe, a main return pipe, and a four-way valve. The compressor, gas-liquid separator, and first heat exchanger are all located outdoors, while the second heat exchanger, fourth heat exchanger, water pump, and expansion tank are all located indoors. The third heat exchanger is located in the heat exchange water pipe. The compressor is connected to one end of the gas-liquid separator, the other end of the gas-liquid separator is connected to the first end of the four-way valve, the second end of the four-way valve is connected to the other end of the compressor, the third end of the four-way valve is connected to one end of the first heat exchanger, the other end of the first heat exchanger is connected to one end of the second heat exchanger via a valve, the other end of the second heat exchanger is connected to one end of the third heat exchanger, the other end of the third heat exchanger is connected to the fourth end of the four-way valve, the other end of the first heat exchanger is also connected to one end of the third heat exchanger via a valve, one end of the fourth heat exchanger is connected to one end of the third heat exchanger, and the other end of the fourth heat exchanger is connected to the other end of the third heat exchanger. One end of the heat exchange water pipe is connected to the inlet end of the water pump, and the outlet end of the water pump is connected to one end of the main inlet water pipe. The main inlet water pipe is connected to the cabinet inlet water pipe of each battery cabinet, and the cabinet return water pipe of each battery cabinet is connected to the main return water pipe. One end of the main return water pipe is connected to one end of the expansion tank, and the other end of the expansion tank is connected to the other end of the heat exchange water pipe.

9. A thermal management method, applied to the thermal management system as described in any one of claims 5-8, characterized in that, include: Obtain the temperature of all battery cells, and take the maximum value Tmax and minimum value Tmin of the battery cell temperature; When Tmax>T3, the semiconductor thermoelectric element of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is controlled to cool the battery cell assembly, and the heat pump unit in the thermal management system is controlled to cool. When T3 > Tmax > T1, only the semiconductor thermoelectric element of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is controlled to cool the battery cell assembly; When Tmax < T1 and Tmin > T2, the cooling or heating function is not activated; When T2 > Tmin > T4, only the semiconductor thermoelectric element of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is controlled to heat the battery cell assembly; When Tmin < T4 and T0 > T5, the semiconductor thermoelectric element of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is controlled to heat the battery cell assembly, and the heat pump unit in the thermal management system is controlled to heat. When Tmin < T6 and T0 > T5, the semiconductor thermoelectric element of the energy storage battery thermal management unit is controlled to heat up, the heat pump unit in the thermal management system is controlled to heat up, and the heating film inside the energy storage battery thermal management unit is controlled to heat up. When Tmin < T4 and T0 < T5, only the heating film inside the thermal management unit of the energy storage battery is controlled to work for heating; Among them, T1, T2, T3, T4 and T6 are all preset temperature nodes, and T3 > T1 > T2 > T4 > T6; T0 is the outdoor ambient temperature, and T5 is the lowest outdoor ambient temperature at which the heat pump unit can work normally.

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