A thermal management system and a liquid-cooled energy storage device

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of thermal management system and liquid-cooled energy storage device, including first liquid circulation pipeline, second liquid circulation pipeline, connecting pipe group and valve group, first liquid circulation pipeline is connected with first circulating pump, first heat exchanger, first heat exchange unit and check valve in series;Second liquid circulation pipeline, which is connected with second circulating pump, second heat exchanger and second heat exchange unit;Connecting pipe group, including switching pipe section, first connecting pipeline and second connecting pipeline, first connecting pipeline is connected between the liquid inlet of check valve and switching pipe section, and second connecting pipeline is connected between the liquid outlet of check valve and switching pipe section;Valve group is set in connecting pipe group, and is used to switch the communication mode of connecting pipe group, to realize different circulating loop mode, can meet the working requirement of the heating device corresponding to first heat exchanger and the heating device corresponding to second heat exchanger with more economical energy consumption, to improve the energy efficiency of the whole machine of thermal management system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of thermal management technology, and more specifically, to a thermal management system and a liquid-cooled energy storage device. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, with the rise of the lithium-ion battery industry and the continuous advancement of the dual-carbon strategy, lithium battery energy storage technology has sprung up like mushrooms after rain, and industry valuations have continued to climb. Thermal management systems, as crucial for ensuring the safe and stable operation of lithium battery systems and various power conversion devices in energy storage equipment, are attracting increasing attention from industry professionals. Thermal management technology has also evolved from early air-cooling solutions to liquid-cooling systems with higher heat dissipation efficiency and better temperature uniformity.

[0003] Existing energy storage devices typically use two independent thermal management systems to dissipate heat from the energy storage system and the power conversion device. This is because the two have very different temperature tolerance ranges. For example, the temperature range for long-term safe operation of lithium-ion batteries is 20~40℃. They need to be heated in the low-temperature range and cooled in the high-temperature range. On the other hand, the various electrical components in the power conversion device only have heat dissipation requirements and can withstand temperatures of 80~100℃ or even higher.

[0004] In practical applications, the heating capacity of the heaters in liquid-cooled units used in energy storage systems differs significantly from the heating power required for rapid heating. Generally, preheating and starting up under static conditions at -30°C typically takes more than 24 hours. Furthermore, the system undergoes frequent heating and cooling processes during operation in low-temperature environments, consuming substantial amounts of the owner's electrical energy. Meanwhile, the heat generated by the battery conversion device must continuously be released into the external low-temperature environment, resulting in significant waste. Therefore, current thermal management systems for liquid-cooled energy storage devices generally suffer from poor overall energy efficiency.

[0005] In summary, how to solve the problem of poor overall energy efficiency of the thermal management system of liquid-cooled energy storage devices has become a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, the present invention provides a thermal management system and a liquid-cooled energy storage device to solve the problem of poor overall energy efficiency of the thermal management system of the liquid-cooled energy storage device.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0008] A thermal management system, comprising:

[0009] The first liquid circulation pipeline is connected in series with a first circulation pump, a first heat exchanger, a first heat exchange unit and a one-way valve.

[0010] The second liquid circulation pipeline is connected in series with a second circulation pump, a second heat exchanger and a second heat exchange unit.

[0011] The connecting pipe assembly includes a switching pipe section, a first connecting pipe, and a second connecting pipe. The switching pipe section is a section on the second liquid circulation pipe located between the second heat exchanger and the second heat exchange unit. The first connecting pipe is connected between the liquid inlet of the one-way valve and the switching pipe section, and the second connecting pipe is connected between the liquid outlet of the one-way valve and the switching pipe section.

[0012] A valve assembly is provided on the connecting pipe assembly and is used to switch the connection mode of the connecting pipe assembly.

[0013] Optionally, the valve assembly includes a first control valve disposed on the switching pipe section, a second control valve disposed on the first connecting pipe, and a third control valve disposed on the second connecting pipe.

[0014] Optionally, the valve assembly includes a fourth control valve for controlling the connection between the first connecting pipeline and the switching pipeline and a fifth control valve for controlling the connection between the second connecting pipeline and the switching pipeline.

[0015] Wherein, the fourth control valve is a first three-way valve located at the connection node between the first connecting pipeline and the switching pipeline; and / or, the fifth control valve is a second three-way valve located at the connection node between the second connecting pipeline and the switching pipeline.

[0016] Optionally, the thermal management system is applied to a liquid-cooled energy storage device, which includes an energy storage battery pack and an energy conversion device, wherein the first heat exchanger is arranged to exchange heat with the energy storage battery pack, and the second heat exchanger is arranged to exchange heat with the energy conversion device.

[0017] Optionally, it also includes a heat exchanger unit for supplying cold or heat to the first heat exchange unit.

[0018] Optionally, the thermal management system includes a first working mode, in which the heat exchange source unit is in the on state, the valve group controls the switching pipeline to be in the conducting state, and both the first connecting pipeline and the second connecting pipeline are in the off state.

[0019] Optionally, the operating modes of the thermal management system include a second operating mode and / or a third operating mode;

[0020] When the thermal management system is in the second working mode, the heat exchange source unit is in the off state, the valve group controls the switching pipeline to be in the disconnected state, and both the first connecting pipeline and the second connecting pipeline are in the conducting state;

[0021] When the thermal management system is in the third working mode, the heat exchange source unit is in the on state, the valve group controls the switching pipeline to be in the off state, and both the first connecting pipeline and the second connecting pipeline are in the conducting state.

[0022] Optionally, the heat exchange source unit includes a refrigerant circulation system, on which a third heat exchange unit, a fourth heat exchange unit, a compressor and an expansion valve are connected in series, and the third heat exchange unit and the first heat exchange unit are arranged for heat exchange.

[0023] Of these, one of the third heat exchange unit and the fourth heat exchange unit is configured as the evaporator of the refrigerant circulation system, and the other is configured as the condenser of the refrigerant circulation system.

[0024] Optionally, the refrigerant circulation system is further provided with a four-way valve for switching the flow direction of the refrigerant circulation system;

[0025] When the four-way valve is switched to the first operating position, the third heat exchange unit is configured as the evaporator of the refrigerant circulation system, and the fourth heat exchange unit is configured as the condenser of the refrigerant circulation system; when the four-way valve is switched to the second operating position, the third heat exchange unit is configured as the condenser of the refrigerant circulation system, and the fourth heat exchange unit is configured as the evaporator of the refrigerant circulation system.

[0026] Optionally, the fourth heat exchange unit shares a heat exchange fan with the second heat exchange unit.

[0027] Optionally, the second heat exchange unit and the third heat exchange unit are arranged as a single unit.

[0028] Optionally, the second liquid circulation pipeline is further provided with a first bypass pipeline for bypassing the second heat exchange unit.

[0029] Optionally, the first bypass pipeline is connected to the second liquid circulation pipeline via a third three-way valve, which can switch back and forth between a first open position and a second open position.

[0030] When the third three-way valve is in the first open position, the first bypass pipeline is open, and the second heat exchange unit is short-circuited in the second liquid circulation pipeline; when the third three-way valve is in the second open position, the first bypass pipeline is closed, and the second heat exchange unit is connected to the second liquid circulation pipeline.

[0031] Optionally, an expansion tank is also provided on the second liquid circulation pipeline.

[0032] Optionally, the first liquid circulation pipeline is further provided with a second bypass pipeline for bypassing the first heat exchange unit.

[0033] Optionally, the second bypass pipeline is connected to the first liquid circulation pipeline via a fourth three-way valve, which can switch back and forth between a first closed position and a second closed position.

[0034] When the fourth three-way valve is in the first open position, the second bypass pipeline is open, and the first heat exchange unit is short-circuited in the first liquid circulation pipeline; when the fourth three-way valve is in the second open position, the second bypass pipeline is closed, and the first heat exchange unit is connected to the first liquid circulation pipeline.

[0035] Optionally, it also includes a heat exchanger unit for supplying cooling or heating to the first heat exchange unit, and the operating mode of the thermal management system includes a fourth operating mode. When the thermal management system is in the fourth operating mode, the heat exchanger unit is in a closed state, the second bypass pipeline is in a conductive state, the switching pipeline is in a disconnected state, and both the first connecting pipeline and the second connecting pipeline are in a conductive state.

[0036] Compared to the background technology description, the aforementioned thermal management system, in practical applications, includes a switching pipe section, a first connecting pipe, and a second connecting pipe. The switching pipe section is located on the second liquid circulation pipe between the second heat exchanger and the second heat exchange unit. The first connecting pipe is connected between the inlet of the one-way valve and the switching pipe section, and the second connecting pipe is connected between the outlet of the one-way valve and the switching pipe section. By switching the connection mode of the connecting pipe group through the valve group, the working mode of the circulation loops of the first and second liquid circulation pipes can be changed. This allows each circulation loop to operate independently or collaboratively. Different thermal management effects can be achieved by switching between different circulation working modes, thereby improving the overall energy efficiency of the entire thermal management system. Specifically, taking the arrangement of the first and second heat exchangers with heat-generating devices having different cooling requirements as an example, for instance, if the heat-generating devices with different cooling requirements are operating under medium to high temperature conditions, the first and second connecting pipes can be disconnected simultaneously by switching the pipe sections. At that time, the first and second liquid circulation pipes form two non-interfering circulation loops in the liquid flow path. In the circulation loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe, the first heat exchange unit absorbs the cooling energy delivered by the heat source unit and delivers it to the first heat exchanger through the first circulation pump. Then, the first heat exchanger dissipates heat and cools down its corresponding heat-generating device. In the circulation loop formed by the second liquid circulation pipe, the second heat exchanger exchanges heat and cools down its corresponding heat-generating device. Under the action of the second circulation pump, the heat is transferred to the second heat exchange unit through the medium flowing in the circulation channel of the second liquid circulation pipe. Then, the second heat exchange unit removes the heat by heat exchange, thus completing the circulation loop. In this heat dissipation mode, the heat from two different cooling devices can be quickly removed without being affected by their respective operating temperature ranges. For example, if two different cooling devices are operating at low temperatures, the switching pipe section can be disconnected while the first and second connecting pipes are connected. At this time, the first and second liquid circulation pipes form a synergistic double circulation loop. One circulation loop is a series circulation loop formed by the first and second liquid circulation pipes, and the other circulation loop is a self-circulating loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe. Since both cooling devices are operating at low temperatures, the heat exchanger unit can be left inactive. The second heat exchange unit simultaneously handles the heat dissipation of the first and second heat exchangers. In addition, since the first liquid circulation pipe also has a self-circulating effect, the heat exchange capacity of the first heat exchanger is greater than that of the second heat exchanger, which can meet the different heat dissipation needs of the heating devices.Similarly, the working principle of the first and second heat exchangers being arranged to exchange heat with devices having different heating requirements is similar to the working principle of the first and second heat exchangers being arranged to exchange heat with heat-generating devices having different cooling requirements; the only difference is the difference in the heating and cooling requirements. Because the aforementioned thermal management system can select and switch different circulation loop modes according to the heat dissipation requirements of the heat-generating devices corresponding to the first and second heat exchangers, it can meet the working requirements of the heat-generating devices corresponding to the first and second heat exchangers with more economical energy consumption, thereby improving the overall energy efficiency of the thermal management system. At the same time, the integrated management of the first and second heat exchangers greatly improves the overall integration of the system.

[0037] In addition, the present invention also provides a liquid-cooled energy storage device, including a thermal management system, wherein the thermal management system is the thermal management system described in any of the above embodiments. Since this thermal management system has the aforementioned technical effects, the liquid-cooled energy storage device having this thermal management system should also have corresponding technical effects, which will not be elaborated further here. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0039] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the overall structural layout of the connecting pipe assembly of the thermal management system provided in the embodiment of the present invention when the first method is adopted;

[0040] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structural arrangement of the connecting pipe group of the thermal management system provided in the embodiment of the present invention in the first working mode when the first method is adopted (unconnected pipes are omitted).

[0041] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structural arrangement of the connecting pipe group of the thermal management system provided in the embodiment of the present invention in the second working mode when the first method is adopted (unconnected pipes are omitted).

[0042] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structural arrangement of the connecting pipe group of the thermal management system provided in the embodiment of the present invention in the third working mode when the first method is adopted (unconnected pipes are omitted).

[0043] Figure 5A schematic diagram of the structural arrangement of the connecting pipe group of the thermal management system provided in the embodiment of the present invention in the fourth working mode when the first method is adopted (unconnected pipes are omitted).

[0044] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the overall structural layout of the thermal management system provided in this embodiment of the invention when the connecting pipe group adopts the first method and the heat exchange source unit adopts a heat pump.

[0045] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the overall structural arrangement of the connecting pipe group of the thermal management system provided in the embodiment of the present invention when the second method is adopted;

[0046] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structural layout of the connecting pipe group of the thermal management system provided in the embodiment of the present invention when the third method is adopted.

[0047] in, Figures 1-8 middle:

[0048] First liquid circulation pipeline 1, first circulation pump 11, first heat exchanger 12, first heat exchange unit 13, one-way valve 14, second bypass pipeline 15;

[0049] Second liquid circulation pipeline 2, second circulation pump 21, second heat exchanger 22, second heat exchange unit 23, first control valve 24, first bypass pipeline 25;

[0050] Heat exchanger unit 3, third heat exchange unit 31, fourth heat exchange unit 32, compressor 33, expansion valve 34, four-way valve 35;

[0051] First connecting pipe 4, second control valve 41, fourth control valve 42;

[0052] Second connecting pipe 5, third control valve 51, fifth control valve 52;

[0053] Third three-way valve 6;

[0054] Expansion tank 7;

[0055] Fourth three-way valve 8. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The core of this invention is to provide a thermal management system and a liquid-cooled energy storage device to solve the problem of poor overall energy efficiency of the thermal management system of the liquid-cooled energy storage device.

[0057] 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 some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0058] Reference Figures 1-8 As shown, the present invention specifically provides a thermal management system, including a first liquid circulation pipeline 1, a second liquid circulation pipeline 2, a connecting pipe assembly, and a valve assembly.

[0059] The system includes a first circulating pump 11, a first heat exchanger 12, a first heat exchange unit 13, and a one-way valve 14 connected in series on the first liquid circulation pipeline 1; a second circulating pump 21, a second heat exchanger 22, and a second heat exchange unit 23 connected in series on the second liquid circulation pipeline 2; a connecting pipe assembly including a switching pipe section, a first connecting pipe 4, and a second connecting pipe 5, wherein the switching pipe section is located on the second liquid circulation pipeline 2 between the second heat exchanger 22 and the second heat exchange unit 23, the first connecting pipe 4 is connected between the liquid inlet of the one-way valve 14 and the switching pipe section, and the second connecting pipe 5 is connected between the liquid outlet of the one-way valve 14 and the switching pipe section; and a valve assembly located on the connecting pipe assembly and used to switch the connection mode of the connecting pipe assembly, specifically including the on / off state of the switching pipe section, and the on / off state of the first connecting pipe 4 and the second connecting pipe 5.

[0060] It should be noted that the thermal management system generally also includes a heat exchange source unit 3, which is mainly used to deliver cold or heat to the first heat exchange unit 13. Whether it delivers cold or heat can be selected and configured according to the heat exchange requirements of the corresponding working device.

[0061] In practical applications, this thermal management system utilizes a connecting pipe assembly comprising a switching pipe section, a first connecting pipe 4, and a second connecting pipe 5. The switching pipe section is located on the second liquid circulation pipe 2 between the second heat exchanger 22 and the second heat exchange unit 23. The first connecting pipe 4 is connected between the inlet of the one-way valve 14 and the switching pipe section, and the second connecting pipe 5 is connected between the outlet of the one-way valve 14 and the switching pipe section. By switching the connection mode of the connecting pipe assembly through the valve assembly, the operating mode of the circulation loops of the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2 can be changed. This allows for both independent operation of each circulation loop and collaborative operation. Different thermal management effects can be achieved by switching between different circulation operating modes, thereby improving the overall energy efficiency of the entire thermal management system.

[0062] Specifically, taking the arrangement of the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22 with heat-generating devices having different cooling requirements as an example:

[0063] For example, heat-generating devices with different cooling requirements operate under medium to high temperature conditions, referring to... Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, for ease of understanding, the disconnected pipes are omitted. This can be achieved by switching pipe sections and simultaneously disconnecting the first connecting pipe 4 and the second connecting pipe 5. At this point, the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2 form two independent circulation loops in the liquid flow path. In the circulation loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe 1, the first heat exchange unit 13 absorbs the cooling energy delivered by the heat source unit 3 and delivers it to the first heat exchanger 12 via the first circulation pump 11. The first heat exchanger 12 then dissipates heat from its corresponding heat-generating device. In the circulation loop formed by the second liquid circulation pipe 2, the second heat exchanger 22 exchanges heat with its corresponding heat-generating device. Under the action of the second circulation pump 21, heat is transferred to the second heat exchange unit 23 through the medium flowing in the circulation channel of the second liquid circulation pipe 2. The second heat exchange unit 23 then removes the heat through heat exchange, thus completing the heat dissipation process of this circulation loop. This mode can quickly remove heat from two heat-generating devices with different cooling requirements, and is not affected by their respective operating temperature ranges.

[0064] For example, two heat-generating devices with different cooling requirements are operating at low temperatures, refer to... Figure 3 For ease of understanding, the disconnected pipes are omitted from the diagram. At this time, the pipe segment can be switched by disconnecting, while the first connecting pipe 4 and the second connecting pipe 5 are connected. Then, the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2 form a synergistic double circulation loop. One circulation loop is a series circulation loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2, and the other circulation loop is a self-circulating loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe 1. At this time, since the two heat-generating devices with different cooling requirements are both in a low-temperature condition, the heat exchanger unit 3 can be selected not to work. The second heat exchange unit 23 simultaneously undertakes the heat dissipation of the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22. In addition, since the first liquid circulation pipe 1 also has a self-circulating effect, the heat exchange capacity of the first heat exchanger 12 is larger than that of the second heat exchanger 22, which can meet the different heat dissipation requirements of the heat-generating devices.

[0065] Similarly, the working principle of the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22 in heat exchange arrangements with related devices having different heating requirements is similar to the working principle of the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22 in heat exchange arrangements with heat-generating devices having different cooling requirements. The only difference is the difference in the cooling and heating requirements. Because the above-mentioned thermal management system can select and switch different circulation loop modes according to the heat dissipation requirements of the heat-generating devices corresponding to the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22, it can meet the working requirements of the heat-generating devices corresponding to the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22 with more economical energy consumption, thereby improving the overall energy efficiency of the thermal management system. At the same time, the integrated management of the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22 greatly improves the overall integration of the system.

[0066] In some specific implementation plans, refer to Figure 1 As shown, the valve assembly may specifically include a first control valve 24 disposed on the switching pipe section, a second control valve 41 disposed on the first connecting pipe 4, and a third control valve 51 disposed on the second connecting pipe 5. Specifically, the first control valve 24, the second control valve 41, and the third control valve 51 may be two-way valves. The first control valve 24 controls the on / off state of the switching pipe section, the second control valve 41 controls the on / off state of the first connecting pipe 4, and the third control valve 51 controls the on / off state of the second connecting pipe 5.

[0067] It is understood that the above-described valve assembly combination is merely an example of an embodiment of the present invention. In actual applications, other valve combinations can be designed, for example, referring to... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the valve assembly can also be designed to include a fourth control valve 42 for controlling the on / off connection of the first connecting pipe 4 and the switching pipe section, and a fifth control valve 52 for controlling the on / off connection of the second connecting pipe 5 and the switching pipe section. The fourth control valve 42 can be a first three-way valve located at the connection point of the first connecting pipe 4 and the switching pipe section, and the fifth control valve 52 can be a two-way valve located on the second connecting pipe 5; alternatively, the fifth control valve 52 can be a second three-way valve located at the connection point of the second connecting pipe 4 and the switching pipe section, and the fourth control valve 42 can be a two-way valve located on the first connecting pipe 4; or the fourth control valve 42 can be a first three-way valve located at the connection point of the first connecting pipe 4 and the switching pipe section, and the fifth control valve 52 can be a second three-way valve located at the connection point of the second connecting pipe 4 and the switching pipe section. In practical applications, the design can be selected according to actual needs, as long as it can achieve the switching of the required connection mode of the connecting pipe assembly; no further specific limitations are made here.

[0068] In some other specific implementations, the thermal management system can be applied to a liquid-cooled energy storage device, which can include an energy storage battery pack and an energy conversion device. The first heat exchanger 12 is arranged to exchange heat with the energy storage battery pack, and the second heat exchanger 22 is arranged to exchange heat with the energy conversion device. Those skilled in the art should understand that energy storage battery packs have more stringent temperature requirements than energy conversion devices (such as energy storage converters). By designing this structural form, the thermal management needs of energy storage battery packs can be better met. When the switching pipe section is in the off state and the first connecting pipe 4 and the second connecting pipe 5 are connected, the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2 form a synergistic dual circulation loop. One circulation loop is a series circulation loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2, and the other circulation loop is a self-circulating loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe 1. At this time, since the two heat-generating devices with different cooling requirements are both in a low-temperature condition, the heat exchanger unit 3 can be selected not to work. The second heat exchange unit 23 simultaneously undertakes the heat dissipation of the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 22. In addition, since the first liquid circulation pipe 1 also has a self-circulating effect, the heat exchange capacity of the first heat exchanger 12 is greater than that of the second heat exchanger 22.

[0069] In some specific implementation plans, refer to Figure 1 and Figures 6-8 The aforementioned thermal management system should also include a heat exchanger unit 3 for supplying cooling or heating to the first heat exchange unit 13. As mentioned above, the heat exchanger unit 3 is mainly used to supply cooling or heating to the first heat exchange unit 13. Whether it supplies cooling or heating can be selected and configured according to the heat exchange requirements of the corresponding working components.

[0070] In a further implementation scheme, the operating mode of the aforementioned thermal management system may specifically include a first operating mode, and when the first operating mode is in effect, reference is made to... Figure 2 As shown, heat exchanger unit 3 is in the open state, the valve group control switching pipeline is in the conducting state, and both the first connecting pipeline 4 and the second connecting pipeline 5 are in the open state. For ease of understanding, the disconnected pipelines are... Figure 2(Omitted from the diagram). In this operating mode, the first liquid circulation pipeline 1 and the second liquid circulation pipeline 2 form two non-interfering circulation loops in the liquid flow path. In the circulation loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipeline 1, the first heat exchange unit 13 absorbs the cooling energy delivered by the heat source unit 3 and delivers it to the first heat exchanger 12 through the first circulation pump 11. Then, the first heat exchanger 12 dissipates heat and cools down its corresponding heat-generating device. In the circulation loop formed by the second liquid circulation pipeline 2, the second heat exchanger 22 exchanges heat and cools down its corresponding heat-generating device. Under the action of the second circulation pump 21, the heat is delivered to the second heat exchange unit 23 through the medium flowing in the circulation channel of the second liquid circulation pipeline 2. Then, the second heat exchange unit 23 removes the heat by heat exchange, thereby completing the heat dissipation process of the circulation loop. In this mode, the heat of two heat-generating devices with different cooling requirements can be quickly removed without being affected by their respective operating temperature ranges. It is understandable that the above is only an example of heat exchanger unit 3 delivering cold energy. In actual applications, when heating is required, heat exchanger unit 3 can also be designed to deliver heat energy. Its working principle is similar and will not be elaborated here.

[0071] In some other specific implementations, the working mode of the thermal management system may also include a second working mode or a third working mode, and the first working mode, the second working mode and the third working mode can be switched according to actual needs by switching the connection method of the connecting pipe group through the valve group.

[0072] Specifically, when the thermal management system is in the second operating mode, refer to Figure 3 For ease of understanding, disconnected pipelines are omitted from the diagram. Heat exchanger unit 3 is in the off state, valve group control switching pipeline is in the off state, and both first connecting pipeline 4 and second connecting pipeline 5 are in the conducting state. In this working mode, the first liquid circulation pipeline 1 and the second liquid circulation pipeline 2 form a synergistic dual circulation loop. One circulation loop is a series circulation loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipeline 1 and the second liquid circulation pipeline 2, and the other circulation loop is a self-circulating loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipeline 1. Taking the heat exchange arrangement of the first heat exchanger 12 and the energy storage battery pack, and the heat exchange arrangement of the second heat exchanger 22 and the power conversion device as an example, the battery liquid cooling system and the power conversion device liquid cooling system operate in series, which is suitable for heat dissipation in low-temperature environments. At this time, the refrigeration system is off, and the battery and power conversion device mainly use low-temperature air for heat dissipation.

[0073] When the thermal management system is in the third operating mode, refer to Figure 4As shown in the diagram, for ease of understanding, disconnected pipes are omitted. Heat exchanger unit 3 is in the on state, valve group control switching pipe is in the off state, and both first connecting pipe 4 and second connecting pipe 5 are in the conducting state. This working mode is mainly based on the second working mode, with the addition of the start-up of heat exchanger unit 3. Taking the heat dissipation condition as an example, it is a series and small-loop operation heat dissipation mode, with the refrigeration system assisting in heat dissipation, suitable for heat dissipation in medium and low temperature environments. The refrigeration system operates at low power, and the system can still maintain a high energy efficiency ratio.

[0074] In some specific implementation plans, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The aforementioned heat exchanger unit 3 may specifically include a refrigerant circulation system. A third heat exchange unit 31, a fourth heat exchange unit 32, a compressor 33, and an expansion valve 34 are connected in series in the refrigerant circulation system. The third heat exchange unit 31 and the first heat exchange unit 13 are arranged for heat exchange. One of the third heat exchange unit 31 and the fourth heat exchange unit 32 is configured as the evaporator of the refrigerant circulation system, and the other is configured as the condenser. When the third heat exchange unit 31 is configured as the evaporator and the fourth heat exchange unit 32 is configured as the condenser, the heat exchanger unit 3 supplies cooling capacity to the first heat exchange unit 13; when the third heat exchange unit 31 is configured as the condenser and the fourth heat exchange unit 32 is configured as the evaporator, the heat exchanger unit 3 supplies heating capacity to the first heat exchange unit 13. By designing the heat exchanger unit 3 as this type of refrigerant circulation system, the arrangement of the heat exchanger unit 3 for supplying cooling or heating capacity becomes more convenient.

[0075] In a further implementation plan, refer to Figure 6 The aforementioned refrigerant circulation system is also equipped with a four-way valve 35 for switching the flow direction of the refrigerant. When the four-way valve 35 is switched to the first operating position, the third heat exchange unit 31 is configured as the evaporator of the refrigerant circulation system, and the fourth heat exchange unit 32 is configured as the condenser of the refrigerant circulation system. When the four-way valve 35 is switched to the second operating position, the third heat exchange unit 31 is configured as the condenser of the refrigerant circulation system, and the fourth heat exchange unit 32 is configured as the evaporator of the refrigerant circulation system. By designing this four-way valve 35, the refrigerant circulation system can be arbitrarily switched according to actual cooling and heating needs, which can better meet the thermal management requirements of the thermal management system.

[0076] In some specific implementation plans, refer to Figure 1 and Figures 6-8The fourth heat exchange unit 32 and the second heat exchange unit 23 can both be designed as air-cooled heat dissipation structures, and they can be designed to be arranged close to each other and share a heat exchange fan, thereby improving the compactness of the structural layout and reducing the number of heat exchange fans, which helps to save costs.

[0077] In some other specific implementations, the second heat exchange unit 23 and the third heat exchange unit 31 can be designed as an integrated unit, that is, the two are integrated into one whole component, or they can be designed as two separate components.

[0078] In some specific implementation plans, refer to Figure 1 Combination Figure 5 and Figures 6-8 ,in Figure 5 The non-conductive pipes are omitted, and the aforementioned second liquid circulation pipe 2 is also provided with a first bypass pipe 25 for bypassing the second heat exchange unit 23. By designing this first bypass pipe 25, the second heat exchange unit 23 can be short-circuited as needed.

[0079] Specifically, the first bypass pipe 25 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2 can be connected via a third three-way valve 6. The third three-way valve 6 can switch back and forth between a first open position and a second open position. When the third three-way valve 6 is in the first open position, the first bypass pipe 25 is open, and the second heat exchange unit 23 is short-circuited in the second liquid circulation pipe 2. When the third three-way valve 6 is in the second open position, the first bypass pipe 25 is closed, and the second heat exchange unit 23 is connected to the second liquid circulation pipe 2. Of course, it is understood that the use of the third three-way valve 6 is merely an example of an embodiment of the present invention. In actual applications, the function of a three-way valve can also be achieved by combining two two-way valves.

[0080] For specific work procedures, please refer to... Figure 5 Disconnect the switching pipe section and simultaneously connect the first connecting pipe 4 and the second connecting pipe 5. At that time, the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2 form a synergistic double circulation loop. One circulation loop is a series circulation loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2, and the other circulation loop is a self-circulating loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe 1. At this time, the series synergistic small circulation operation heating mode is used for active heating or waste heat utilization, mainly for low temperature environments.

[0081] Taking the heat exchange arrangement between the first heat exchanger 12 and the energy storage battery pack, and the heat exchange arrangement between the second heat exchanger 22 and the power conversion device as examples, the power conversion device's active heating is mainly used for preheating and starting the system in a low-temperature environment. It uses an AC-side pre-charging method to charge the bus, without consuming DC-side energy, and then operates reactively connected to the grid to increase the coolant temperature, thereby enabling the first heat exchanger 12 to preheat the energy storage battery pack. At this time, the power conversion device's active heating replaces the original electric heater function, and the active heating power can be much higher than the electric heater power, increasing the system's heating rate. For example, a 40kW liquid-cooled unit of a certain model has a 12kW electric heater; if the power conversion device's active heating method is used, it can provide approximately 40kW of heating power. When the battery system reaches its normal charge / discharge temperature, the heat generated during the normal operation of the power conversion device can be used to maintain the battery system temperature within a suitable range, achieving waste heat utilization. The active heating operating modes of power conversion devices can be divided into positive and negative reactive power operation or open-loop operation. In the first mode, all power conversion devices in the energy storage system operate in an open-loop manner, generating heat to heat the coolant. In this mode, the system is not connected to the grid and has no impact on the power grid. In the second mode, half of the power conversion devices in the energy storage system operate in positive reactive power operation, and the other half in negative reactive power operation. In this mode, the grid voltage remains almost constant, and grid connection has minimal impact on the power grid.

[0082] In some other specific implementation schemes, in order to ensure sufficient circulating medium in the second liquid circulation pipeline 2 and thus make heat exchange more stable, refer to Figures 1-8 An expansion tank 7 is usually also installed on the second liquid circulation pipeline 2.

[0083] In some specific implementation plans, refer to Figure 1 , Figures 6-7 The first liquid circulation pipeline 1 may also be equipped with a second bypass pipeline 15 for bypassing the first heat exchange unit 13. By designing this second bypass pipeline 15, the connection to or short-circuiting of the first heat exchange unit 13 can be selected according to actual needs. For example, when the thermal management system includes a heat exchanger unit 3 for supplying cooling or heating to the first heat exchange unit 13, if connection to the heat exchanger unit 3 is not required, the first heat exchange unit 13 is equivalent to a section of pipeline, which can be short-circuited to reduce flow resistance. In this case, the operating mode of the thermal management system may include a fourth operating mode, as described above. Figure 5When the thermal management system is in the fourth operating mode, the heat exchanger unit 3 is in the off state, the second bypass pipe 15 is in the conducting state, the switching pipe section is in the open state, and both the first connecting pipe 4 and the second connecting pipe 5 are in the conducting state. At this time, the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2 form a synergistic dual circulation loop. One circulation loop is a series circulation loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe 1 and the second liquid circulation pipe 2, and the other circulation loop is a self-circulating loop formed by the first liquid circulation pipe 1. At this time, the series synergistic small circulation operation heating mode is used for active heating or waste heat utilization, mainly for low-temperature environments.

[0084] Specifically, refer to Figure 5 As shown, the second bypass pipe 15 is connected to the first liquid circulation pipe 1 via a fourth three-way valve 8. The fourth three-way valve 8 can switch back and forth between a first closed position and a second closed position. When the fourth three-way valve 8 is in the first closed position, the second bypass pipe 15 is open, and the first heat exchange unit 13 is short-circuited in the first liquid circulation pipe 1. When the fourth three-way valve 8 is in the second closed position, the second bypass pipe 15 is closed, and the first heat exchange unit 13 is connected to the first liquid circulation pipe 1. It should be understood that the above-described method of using the fourth three-way valve 8 to achieve switching access is merely an example of an embodiment of the present invention. In actual applications, other structural forms can also be designed.

[0085] In addition, the present invention also provides a liquid-cooled energy storage device, including a thermal management system, wherein the thermal management system is the thermal management system described in any of the above embodiments. Since this thermal management system has the aforementioned technical effects, the liquid-cooled energy storage device having this thermal management system should also have corresponding technical effects, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0086] It should be noted that the various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0087] It should be understood that the use of terms such as "system," "device," "unit," and / or "module" in this application is merely one method of distinguishing different components, elements, parts, sections, or assemblies at different levels. However, if other terms can achieve the same purpose, they may be replaced by other expressions.

[0088] As indicated in this application and claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the words "a," "an," "a," and / or "the" are not specifically singular and may include the plural. Generally, the terms "comprising" and "including" only indicate the inclusion of expressly identified steps and elements, which do not constitute an exclusive list, and the method or apparatus may also include other steps or elements. An element defined by the phrase "comprising an..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, product, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0089] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or", for example, A / B can mean A or B; "and / or" in this document is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0090] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0091] If a flowchart is used in this application, it is used to illustrate the operations performed by the system according to embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the preceding or following operations are not necessarily performed in exact order. Instead, the steps can be processed in reverse order or simultaneously. Furthermore, other operations can be added to these processes, or one or more steps can be removed from them.

[0092] This article uses specific examples to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present invention. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the core ideas of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications to the present invention without departing from the principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A thermal management system, characterized in that, include: The first liquid circulation pipeline (1) is connected in series with a first circulation pump (11), a first heat exchanger (12), a first heat exchange unit (13) and a one-way valve (14). The second liquid circulation pipeline (2) is connected in series with the second circulation pump (21), the second heat exchanger (22), and the second heat exchange unit (23). The connecting pipe assembly includes a switching pipe section, a first connecting pipe (4), and a second connecting pipe (5). The switching pipe section is a pipe section on the second liquid circulation pipe (2) located between the second heat exchanger (22) and the second heat exchange unit (23). The first connecting pipe (4) is connected between the liquid inlet of the one-way valve (14) and the switching pipe section. The second connecting pipe (5) is connected between the liquid outlet of the one-way valve (14) and the switching pipe section. A valve assembly is provided on the connecting pipe assembly and is used to switch the connection mode of the connecting pipe assembly; When the switching pipe section is disconnected and both the first connecting pipe (4) and the second connecting pipe (5) are connected, the first liquid circulation pipe (1) and the second liquid circulation pipe (2) form a series circulation loop, and the first liquid circulation pipe (1) forms a self-circulating loop.

2. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The valve group includes a first control valve (24) disposed in the switching pipe section, a second control valve (41) disposed in the first connecting pipe (4) and a third control valve (51) disposed in the second connecting pipe (5).

3. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The valve group includes a fourth control valve (42) for controlling the connection between the first connecting pipeline (4) and the switching pipeline segment and a fifth control valve (52) for controlling the connection between the second connecting pipeline (5) and the switching pipeline segment. Wherein, the fourth control valve (42) is a first three-way valve located at the connection node between the first connecting pipeline (4) and the switching pipeline; and / or, the fifth control valve (52) is a second three-way valve located at the connection node between the second connecting pipeline (5) and the switching pipeline.

4. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal management system is applied to a liquid-cooled energy storage device, which includes an energy storage battery pack and an energy conversion device. The first heat exchanger (12) is arranged to exchange heat with the energy storage battery pack, and the second heat exchanger (22) is arranged to exchange heat with the energy conversion device.

5. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a heat exchanger unit (3) for supplying cold or heat to the first heat exchange unit (13).

6. The thermal management system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The working mode of the thermal management system includes a first working mode. When the first working mode is in the first working mode, the heat exchange source unit (3) is in the open state, the valve group controls the switching pipe section to be in the conducting state, and the first connecting pipe (4) and the second connecting pipe (5) are both in the open state.

7. The thermal management system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The thermal management system has a second working mode and / or a third working mode. When the thermal management system is in the second working mode, the heat exchange source unit (3) is in the closed state, the valve group controls the switching pipe section to be in the disconnected state, and the first connecting pipe (4) and the second connecting pipe (5) are both in the conducting state. When the thermal management system is in the third working mode, the heat exchange source unit (3) is in the open state, the valve group controls the switching pipe section to be in the open state, and the first connecting pipe (4) and the second connecting pipe (5) are both in the conducting state.

8. The thermal management system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The heat exchange source unit (3) includes a refrigerant circulation system, on which a third heat exchange unit (31), a fourth heat exchange unit (32), a compressor (33) and an expansion valve (34) are connected in series. The third heat exchange unit (31) and the first heat exchange unit (13) are arranged for heat exchange. Among them, one of the third heat exchange unit (31) and the fourth heat exchange unit (32) is configured as the evaporator of the refrigerant circulation system, and the other is configured as the condenser of the refrigerant circulation system.

9. The thermal management system as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The refrigerant circulation system is also equipped with a four-way valve (35) for switching the flow direction of the refrigerant circulation system. When the four-way valve (35) is switched to the first working position, the third heat exchange unit (31) is configured as the evaporator of the refrigerant circulation system, and the fourth heat exchange unit (32) is configured as the condenser of the refrigerant circulation system; when the four-way valve (35) is switched to the second working position, the third heat exchange unit (31) is configured as the condenser of the refrigerant circulation system, and the fourth heat exchange unit (32) is configured as the evaporator of the refrigerant circulation system.

10. The thermal management system as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The fourth heat exchange unit (32) shares a heat exchange fan with the second heat exchange unit (23).

11. The thermal management system as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The second heat exchange unit (23) and the third heat exchange unit (31) are arranged as a single unit.

12. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second liquid circulation pipeline (2) is also provided with a first bypass pipeline (25) for bypassing the second heat exchange unit (23).

13. The thermal management system as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The first bypass pipeline (25) is connected to the second liquid circulation pipeline (2) through a third three-way valve (6), which can switch back and forth between the first open position and the second open position; When the third three-way valve (6) is in the first open position, the first bypass pipe (25) is open, and the second heat exchange unit (23) is short-circuited on the second liquid circulation pipe (2); when the third three-way valve (6) is in the second open position, the first bypass pipe (25) is closed, and the second heat exchange unit (23) is connected to the second liquid circulation pipe (2).

14. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, An expansion tank (7) is also provided on the second liquid circulation pipeline (2).

15. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first liquid circulation pipeline (1) is also provided with a second bypass pipeline (15) for bypassing the first heat exchange unit (13).

16. The thermal management system as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The second bypass pipeline (15) is connected to the first liquid circulation pipeline (1) through a fourth three-way valve (8), which can switch back and forth between the first closed position and the second closed position. When the fourth three-way valve (8) is in the first closed position, the second bypass pipeline (15) is open, and the first heat exchange unit (13) is short-circuited on the first liquid circulation pipeline (1); when the fourth three-way valve (8) is in the second closed position, the second bypass pipeline (15) is closed, and the first heat exchange unit (13) is connected to the first liquid circulation pipeline (1).

17. The thermal management system as described in claim 15, characterized in that, It also includes a heat exchanger unit (3) for supplying cold or heat to the first heat exchange unit (13), and the working mode of the thermal management system includes a fourth working mode. When the thermal management system is in the fourth working mode, the heat exchanger unit (3) is in the off state, the second bypass pipe (15) is in the on state, the switching pipe section is in the off state, and the first connecting pipe (4) and the second connecting pipe (5) are both in the on state.

18. A liquid-cooled energy storage device, comprising a thermal management system, characterized in that, The thermal management system is the thermal management system as described in any one of claims 1-17.

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