Expansion water bottle, thermal management system and new energy vehicle

Abstract

This disclosure relates to an expansion tank, a thermal management system, and a new energy vehicle. The expansion tank includes a shell; the shell includes a first liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, a filling port, an vent, a liquid supply chamber, and a gas-liquid separation chamber. The liquid supply chamber and the gas-liquid separation chamber are laterally distributed and interconnected. The first liquid inlet and the vent are respectively connected to the gas-liquid separation chamber, and the liquid outlet and the filling port are respectively connected to the liquid supply chamber; wherein, both the filling port and the vent are located at the top of the shell. The expansion tank achieves gas-liquid separation, realizing functional integration and saving space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of automotive parts manufacturing, and more particularly to an expansion tank, a thermal management system, and new energy vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] As the thermal management systems of new energy vehicles become increasingly complex, heat from the motor, battery, heating system, and refrigerant system is exchanged through variable piping. This necessitates intricate piping arrangements to achieve series and parallel connections between multiple systems. Consequently, the thermal management system contains more bends and dead zones, making it prone to air bubble formation. When adding coolant, these air bubbles tend to accumulate or circulate repeatedly without being expelled. This results in a large number of air bubbles at the water pump inlet, affecting the inlet pressure or causing insufficient inlet medium to enter the pump. This can lead to the pump running dry, damaging the pump body and preventing the pump from achieving its optimal head and flow rate, thus depriving the medium flow within the thermal management system piping of a driving force.

[0003] Currently, some new energy vehicles solve the bubble problem by adding an expansion tank to the thermal management system, but this increases the number of parts and the size of the thermal management system, making it heavier and hindering the vehicle's lightweight design. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an expansion tank, a thermal management system, and a new energy vehicle, which achieves gas-liquid separation through the expansion tank, realizing functional integration and saving space.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure provides an expansion tank, including a housing; the housing includes a first liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, a filling port, a vent, a liquid supply chamber, and a gas-liquid separation chamber, the liquid supply chamber and the gas-liquid separation chamber being laterally distributed and interconnected, the first liquid inlet and the vent being connected to the gas-liquid separation chamber, and the liquid outlet and the filling port being connected to the liquid supply chamber; wherein the filling port and the vent are both located at the top of the housing.

[0006] In one embodiment, the gas-liquid separation chamber includes a main separation chamber, a float chamber, and an exhaust chamber. The main separation chamber and the float chamber are located below the exhaust chamber. The float chamber is located inside the main separation chamber and communicates with the main separation chamber. The first liquid inlet communicates with the main separation chamber, and the exhaust port communicates with the exhaust chamber.

[0007] In one embodiment, the main separation chamber includes a first separation chamber and a second separation chamber that are interconnected. The first separation chamber is located above the second separation chamber, the float chamber is located in the second separation chamber, the first liquid inlet is connected through the first separation chamber and the second separation chamber, and the second separation chamber is connected to the liquid supply chamber.

[0008] In one embodiment, the housing includes a first baffle and a second baffle. The first baffle divides the interior of the housing into the liquid supply chamber and the gas-liquid separation chamber. The second baffle is annular and located at the top of the housing. The second baffle extends downward from the top of the housing and together with the first baffle forms the annular first separation chamber.

[0009] In one embodiment, the housing further includes a first partition and a second partition, the first partition and the second partition extending laterally and assembled with the second baffle to form the float cavity, the first partition being located on the side closer to the second separation cavity relative to the second partition, the second partition having a second opening, the float cavity communicating with the exhaust cavity through the second opening; the first partition having a first opening, the float cavity communicating with the second separation cavity through the first opening.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first partition is provided with a boss that extends upward toward one side of the second partition; the boss is frustum-shaped, the cross-sectional area of ​​the upper end face of the boss is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the lower end face, the first opening penetrates the boss, so that the inner wall of the boss forms a frustum-shaped through hole, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner circle of the upper end face of the boss is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner circle of the lower end face.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second separation cavity is frustum-shaped, and the cross-section of the upper end face of the second separation cavity is larger than the cross-section of the lower end face.

[0012] In one embodiment, the expansion tank includes a float device assembled within the float cavity and movable up and down within the float cavity. The float device includes a sealing portion, and when the float device rises to the point where the sealing portion blocks the second opening, the float cavity and the venting cavity are isolated; and / or

[0013] The maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust chamber is smaller than the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the float chamber; and / or

[0014] The top surface of the exhaust chamber is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, and the exhaust port is located at the highest point of the top surface of the exhaust chamber.

[0015] In one embodiment, the housing includes a first housing and a second housing, the first housing being assembled above the second housing, the first separation cavity being disposed within the first housing, and the second separation cavity being disposed within the second housing.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first liquid inlet is disposed in the first housing or the second housing; and / or

[0017] The first liquid inlet is located circumferentially in the first housing or the second housing, and extends tangentially along the first baffle; and / or

[0018] The housing further includes a connecting portion, through which the second separation chamber communicates with the liquid supply chamber. The connecting portion is located circumferentially in the first housing or the second housing and extends tangentially along the first baffle; and / or

[0019] The expansion tank also includes an inlet pipe that communicates with the first inlet port; the inlet pipe is located circumferentially in the first housing or the second housing and extends tangentially in the first housing or the second housing.

[0020] In one embodiment, the housing further includes a connecting portion disposed on the first baffle, and the second separation chamber is connected to the liquid supply chamber through the connecting portion.

[0021] In one embodiment, the connecting portion is disposed in the first housing or the second housing.

[0022] In one embodiment, the gas-liquid separation chamber has a circular cross-section, and the first liquid inlet and / or the connecting portion has a square longitudinal section; and / or

[0023] The height of the connecting portion is less than or equal to one-third of the depth of the gas-liquid separation chamber.

[0024] In one embodiment, the vent and the filler port may be connected or not connected; and / or

[0025] The filling port is located at the highest point of the housing; and / or

[0026] The housing is also provided with a second liquid inlet, which is connected to the liquid supply chamber; the expansion tank includes a three-way valve connected between the first liquid inlet and the second liquid inlet.

[0027] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a thermal management system, including a fluid pipeline, a water pump, and an expansion tank as described in any of the above embodiments; the fluid pipeline is connected to a first inlet and an outlet of the expansion tank, and the fluid pipeline is also connected to the water pump.

[0028] In one embodiment, the expansion tank includes the three-way valve, and the fluid line is connected to the three-way valve; and / or

[0029] The expansion tank is located at the highest point of the thermal management system.

[0030] The expansion kettle and thermal management system technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure may include the following beneficial effects:

[0031] The expansion tank achieves both gas-liquid separation, effectively separating and discharging the large number of air bubbles generated within the fluid lines of the thermal management system, and recycling the resulting liquid for reuse. Simultaneously, the expansion tank retains the original functions of pressure relief, pressurization, and liquid replenishment. This multi-functional integration eliminates the need for an additional separator in the thermal management system, reducing system size. The first inlet serves as both the liquid source for the gas-liquid separation chamber and the liquid supply chamber, while the outlet serves as both the liquid outlet for the gas-liquid separation chamber and the liquid supply chamber, thereby reducing the length of the fluid lines and the weight of the thermal management system.

[0032] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a new energy vehicle, including a cabin, a battery, and a thermal management system as described in any of the above embodiments, wherein the cabin, the battery, and the thermal management system are connected.

[0033] The new energy vehicle technology solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure may include the following beneficial effects:

[0034] By applying a small-volume, lightweight thermal management system to new energy vehicles, the manufacturing cost of new energy vehicles has been greatly reduced.

[0035] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this disclosure, are used to provide a further understanding of this disclosure. The illustrative embodiments of this disclosure and their descriptions are used to explain this disclosure and do not constitute an undue limitation of this disclosure.

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of an expansion tank in one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 2 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the thermal management system in one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the expansion tank shown.

[0041] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A magnified view of a portion of the expansion tank shown.

[0042] Figure 5 for Figure 1 Another enlarged view of a section of the expansion kettle shown.

[0043] Figure 6 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of an expansion tank in another embodiment.

[0044] Figure 7 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of an expansion tank in another embodiment.

[0045] Figure 8 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of an expansion tank in another embodiment.

[0046] Figure 9 for Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the expansion tank shown.

[0047] Figure 10 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the expansion tank at another height.

[0048] Figure 11 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of an expansion kettle with a three-way valve in its first working state in one embodiment.

[0049] Figure 12 for Figure 11 The cross-sectional view of the expansion tank shown.

[0050] Figure 13 The diagram shown is a schematic of the expansion kettle with the three-way valve in the second working state in one embodiment.

[0051] Figure 14 for Figure 13 The cross-sectional view of the expansion tank shown.

[0052] Wherein: 10-Expansion tank; 20-Thermal management system; 11-Shell; 111-First liquid inlet; 112-Liquid outlet; 113-Filling port; 114-Exhaust port; 115-Liquid supply chamber; 116-Gas-liquid separation chamber; 21-Fluid pipeline; 22-Water pump; 1161-Main separation chamber; 1162-Float chamber; 1163-Exhaust chamber; 11611-First separation chamber; 11612-Second separation chamber Cavity; 118-First baffle; 119-Second baffle; 121-First partition; 122-Second partition; 1221-Second opening; 1211-First opening; 13-Float device; 131-Blocking part; 1212-Boss; 123-First housing; 124-Second housing; 125-Connecting part; 126-First liquid inlet channel; 14-Liquid inlet pipe; 127-Second liquid inlet; 15-Three-way valve. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0054] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this disclosure.

[0055] In related technologies, to address the issue of excessive air bubbles in the thermal management system pipelines of new energy vehicles, separators are added to the pipelines. However, this increases the volume of the thermal management system, occupying a significant amount of space within the vehicle. To save space, the volume of the separator needs to be reduced, but this results in insufficient space within the separator for gas-liquid separation of the fluid containing air bubbles, greatly weakening the separator's gas-liquid separation function and leading to unsatisfactory results.

[0056] Based on this, this disclosure provides an expansion tank, a thermal management system, and a new energy vehicle. The expansion tank enables gas-liquid separation, achieving functional integration and saving space.

[0057] The expansion kettle of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the features of the following embodiments and implementations can be combined with each other.

[0058] In one embodiment of this disclosure, reference is made to Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, an expansion tank 10 and a thermal management system 20 including the expansion tank 10 are provided. The expansion tank 10 includes a housing 11. The housing 11 includes a first liquid inlet 111, a liquid outlet 112, a filling port 113, a vent 114, a liquid supply chamber 115, and a gas-liquid separation chamber 116. The liquid supply chamber 115 and the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 are distributed laterally and are interconnected. The first liquid inlet 111 and the vent 114 are respectively connected to the gas-liquid separation chamber 116. The liquid outlet 112 and the filling port 113 are respectively connected to the liquid supply chamber 115. The filling port 113 and the vent 114 are both located at the top of the housing 11. The thermal management system 20 also includes a fluid pipeline 21 and a water pump 22. The fluid pipeline 21 is connected to the first liquid inlet 111 and the liquid outlet 112 of the expansion tank 10. The fluid pipeline 21 is also connected to the water pump 22.

[0059] Thus, the fluid in the fluid pipeline 21 flows in the direction from the first inlet 111 into the expansion tank 10 to the outlet 112 out of the expansion tank 10, driven by the water pump 22. The gas-liquid mixture enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 from the first inlet 111. Inside the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, the gas in the mixture flows upward towards the exhaust port 114 located at the top of the housing 11, and is discharged from the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 through the exhaust port 114. The exhaust port 114 is located at the top of the housing 11, meaning it is at the highest point of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, allowing the gas to flow towards it. Since the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 and the supply chamber 115 are connected, the remaining liquid in the gas-liquid mixture flows from the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 to the supply chamber 115, thereby achieving gas-liquid separation. The liquid flowing from the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 into the liquid supply chamber 115 mixes with the existing liquid in the liquid supply chamber 115 and can then flow back to the fluid pipeline 21 from the liquid outlet 112 for use by the thermal management system 20. The expansion tank 10 of this disclosure can achieve both gas-liquid separation, separating and discharging the large number of bubbles generated in the fluid pipeline 21 of the thermal management system 20, and recycling the separated liquid for reuse. Simultaneously, the expansion tank 10 can perform the original functions of depressurization, pressurization, and liquid replenishment. The expansion tank 10 achieves multi-functional integration, eliminating the need for an additional separator in the thermal management system 20 and reducing the system volume. The first liquid inlet 111 serves as both the liquid source for the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 and the liquid supply chamber 115, while the liquid outlet 112 serves as both the liquid outlet for the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 and the liquid outlet for the liquid supply chamber 115, thereby reducing the configuration length of the fluid pipeline 21 and the weight of the thermal management system 20.

[0060] Specifically, in some embodiments, the housing 11 is generally rectangular in shape with rounded corners. In other embodiments, the housing 11 is generally spherical. The detailed shape and dimensions of the housing 11 are designed according to actual needs, and this disclosure does not limit them.

[0061] In some embodiments, the shell 11 may be made of engineering plastics, such as a mixture of PA6 (Polyamide-6) and GF (Glass Fiber), wherein the mass fraction of glass fiber may be 30%. Using this material for the shell 11 provides good rigidity and strength while maintaining a low density, which helps reduce the weight of the shell 11. In other embodiments, the shell 11 may also be made of other materials such as metal.

[0062] In some embodiments, the first liquid inlet 111 is located on the side wall of the housing 11, and the filling port 113 is located on the top of the housing 11, vertically penetrating the upper surface of the housing 11. The expansion tank 10 also includes a cover, which is detachably installed on the filling port 113. The cover and the filling port 113 can be connected by threads. The user can open the cover and add liquid to the supply chamber 115 through the filling port 113. The cover is equipped with a pressure relief valve and a vacuum valve. When the pressure in the thermal management system 20 is greater than the specified pressure of the system, the pressure relief valve opens to release pressure. When the pressure in the thermal management system 20 is less than the specified pressure of the system, the vacuum valve opens to replenish the pressure of the system. At the same time, liquid can be added to the system under atmospheric pressure. In addition, when the cover is opened, gas in the supply chamber 115 can also be discharged through the filling port 113.

[0063] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the filling port 113 is located at the highest point of the housing 11, which facilitates the expansion tank 10 to perform functions of depressurization, pressurization, water filling, and gas discharge. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the expansion tank 10 is located at the highest point of the thermal management system 20, thereby enabling the thermal management system 20 to smoothly depressurize, pressurize, fill with water, and discharge gas.

[0064] In some embodiments, the liquid outlet 112 is provided on the side wall of the housing 11, near the lower end face of the housing 11, or the liquid outlet 112 is provided on the lower end face of the housing 11 to facilitate liquid outflow.

[0065] In some embodiments, the housing 11 further includes a plurality of baffles extending along horizontal and / or vertical and / or curved directions, dividing the chamber within the housing 11 into a plurality of smaller chambers. The baffles have openings to allow communication between the smaller chambers. At least one of the smaller chambers is a gas-liquid separation chamber 116, and the remaining smaller chambers are liquid supply chambers 115. The gas-liquid separation chamber 116 and the liquid supply chambers 115 are arranged adjacent to each other laterally and are interconnected through the openings in the baffles. Setting the liquid supply chambers 115 as a plurality of interconnected smaller chambers increases the flow channels. If the liquid flowing out of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 is mixed with gas, further gas-liquid separation can be performed as it flows through the multiple liquid supply chambers 115. Furthermore, the thickness of the housing 11 at various locations and the thickness of each baffle can be set to different values, thereby forming smaller chambers of varying sizes.

[0066] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 is disposed in a region near the center of the expansion vessel 10. In other embodiments, the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 is disposed in a region near the edge of the expansion vessel 10. This disclosure does not limit the specific arrangement of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 within the housing 11 of the expansion vessel 10.

[0067] In some embodiments, the volume of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 ranges from 200ml to 400ml, for example, the volume of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 is 200ml, 250ml, 300ml, 350ml, 400ml, etc. The smaller volume of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 reduces the impact on the setting of the liquid supply chamber 115.

[0068] In some embodiments, the expansion pitcher 10 further includes a fixing bracket that is fixedly connected to or integrally manufactured with the housing 11 for mounting and fixing the expansion pitcher 10. In some embodiments, the housing 11 is also provided with liquid level markings so that the user can know the liquid level inside the pitcher when using the expansion pitcher 10.

[0069] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the exhaust port 114 and the filling port 113 are connected, so that gas flows from the exhaust port 114 to the filling port 113 and is discharged through the filling port 113. In related technologies, in order to discharge gas, the exhaust port of the separately installed separator must be located at the highest point in the thermal management system pipeline, which restricts the structural layout of the entire thermal management system and easily reduces the space utilization of the vehicle. In this disclosure, the exhaust port 114 is connected to the filling port 113, so that the two are connected. The exhaust port 114 no longer needs to be specially located at the highest point in the thermal management system 20 pipeline, nor does it need to be specially located at the highest point of the expansion tank 10. The exhaust port 114 needs to be located at the highest point of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 so that the gas in the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 can flow upward through it. The design restrictions on the position of the exhaust port 114 are reduced, and it can be designed according to actual requirements, improving applicability. On the other hand, the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 and the liquid supply chamber 115 ultimately share the filling port 113 to discharge air, which reduces the channels for the expansion tank 10 to exhaust to the outside, making the expansion tank 10 more airtight.

[0070] Specifically, in some embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 5 As shown, the vent 114 extends and bends within the housing 11 toward the filling port 113 to form a channel. The vent 114 can be positioned as close as possible to the filling port 113 to shorten the channel and reduce bends, thereby reducing the resistance to gas passage.

[0071] In other embodiments, the vent 114 and the filling port 113 are not connected. The vent 114 automatically discharges the gas in the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 to the expansion tank 10. Venting can be done at any time. When the vent 114 needs to be set far away from the filling port 113, a separate pipeline of the vent 114 is directly connected to the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, which can avoid laying a long channel in the housing 11 and reduce the difficulty of processing and manufacturing.

[0072] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 includes a main separation chamber 1161, a float chamber 1162, and an exhaust chamber 1163. The main separation chamber 1161 and the float chamber 1162 are located below the exhaust chamber 1163. The float chamber 1162 is located inside the main separation chamber 1161 and communicates with it. The first liquid inlet 111 communicates with the main separation chamber 1161, and the exhaust port 114 communicates with the exhaust chamber 1163. Thus, the gas-liquid mixture first enters the main separation chamber 1161, then the float chamber 1162, then the exhaust chamber 1163, and finally exits through the exhaust port 114. This multi-stage chamber configuration further improves the gas-liquid separation effect. The exhaust chamber 1163 is located at the top of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 for easy venting. The float chamber 1162 is located inside the main separation chamber 1161, reducing the volume of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 and consequently reducing the volume of the expansion tank 10.

[0073] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the main separation chamber 1161 includes a first separation chamber 11611 and a second separation chamber 11612 that are interconnected. The first separation chamber 11611 is located above the second separation chamber 11612, and the float chamber 1162 is located in the second separation chamber 11612. The first liquid inlet 111 is connected to the first separation chamber 11611 and the second separation chamber 11612. The second separation chamber 11612 is connected to the liquid supply chamber 115. In this way, the liquid in the gas-liquid mixture flows downward into the second separation chamber 11612 after entering the first separation chamber 11611, and then flows out of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 from the second separation chamber 11612, thus achieving sufficient gas-liquid separation.

[0074] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the housing 11 includes a first baffle 118 and a second baffle 119. The first baffle 118 divides the interior of the housing 11 into a liquid supply chamber 115 and a gas-liquid separation chamber 116. The second baffle 119 is annular and located at the top of the housing 11. The second baffle 119 extends downward from the top of the housing 11 and, together with the first baffle 118, forms an annular first separation chamber 11611. Since the first separation chamber 11611 formed by the first baffle 118 and the second baffle 119 is annular, the gas-liquid mixture entering the first separation chamber 11611 through the first liquid inlet 111 will form a vortex. Under centrifugal force, the gas-liquid mixture entering the first separation chamber 11611 flows downward in a rotating motion, adhering tightly to the inner wall of the first baffle 118, and flows into the second separation chamber 11612. Since the gas in the gas-liquid mixture is almost unaffected by centrifugal force, the gas in the gas-liquid mixture will not adhere to the inner wall of the first baffle 118, but will be located at the center of the liquid flow, thus achieving the separation of the gas in the gas-liquid mixture.

[0075] The second baffle 119 is annular and may have a roughly circular or elliptical cross-section. The second baffle 119 may be configured as an annular, elliptical annular, spiral, etc. This disclosure does not impose specific restrictions on the shape of the second baffle 119.

[0076] Specifically, in some embodiments, the cross-sections of the first baffle 118 and the second baffle 119 are approximately circular to facilitate liquid rotation. The wall thickness of the first baffle 118 and the second baffle 119 ranges from 1.5mm to 2.5mm. For example, the wall thickness can be 1.5mm, 2mm, or 2.5mm. This arrangement satisfies structural rigidity without occupying excessive internal space in the expansion tank 10.

[0077] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 4As shown, the second separation chamber 11612 is frustum-shaped, and the cross-section of the upper end face of the second separation chamber 11612 is larger than the cross-section of the lower end face. This arrangement is more conducive to the gas-liquid mixture rotating downwards using centrifugal force, and facilitates the separated gas to converge towards the center of the second separation chamber 11612 and flow upwards. In some embodiments, the longitudinal section of the portion of the first baffle 118 corresponding to the second separation chamber 11612 is approximately a right-angled triangle.

[0078] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 4 As shown, the housing 11 also includes a first partition 121 and a second partition 122. The first partition 121 and the second partition 122 extend laterally and are assembled with the second baffle 119 to form a float chamber 1162. The first partition 121 is located on the side closer to the second separation chamber 11612 relative to the second partition 122. The second partition 122 has a second opening 1221, through which the float chamber 1162 communicates with the exhaust chamber 1163. The first partition 121 has a first opening 1211, through which the float chamber communicates with the second separation chamber 11612. This arrangement facilitates the separation and communication of the chambers, resulting in a neat and simple structure that is convenient for manufacturing. The first opening 1211 penetrates the first partition 121, and the second opening 1221 penetrates the second partition 122.

[0079] In some embodiments, the expansion tank 10 includes a float device 13 assembled within a float cavity 1162 and movable up and down within the float cavity 1162. The float device 13 includes a sealing portion 131. When the float device 13 rises to the point where the sealing portion 131 blocks the second opening 1221, the float cavity 1162 and the venting chamber 1163 are isolated. When a gas-liquid mixture flows into the float cavity 1162, the float device 13 rises. When the float device 13 abuts against the second partition 122, the sealing portion 131 at least partially enters the second opening 1221 and blocks the second opening 1221.

[0080] Specifically, in some embodiments, the sealing portion 131 is disposed on the top of the float device 13, and the sealing portion 131 is vertically opposite to the second opening 1221. The end face of the sealing portion 131 facing the exhaust chamber 1163 can be hemispherical. For example, the shape of the sealing portion 131 can be spherical or mushroom-shaped. With this configuration, even if the float device 13 is impacted by a gas-liquid mixture or tilted due to the movement of a vehicle, the sealing portion 131 can still achieve a good seal on the second opening 1221 because the end face of the sealing portion 131 sealing the second opening 1221 is hemispherical.

[0081] When the flow rate of the gas-liquid mixture in the cooling pipe is too fast, some of the gas-liquid mixture will flow into the float chamber 1162. As the amount of gas-liquid mixture in the float chamber 1162 gradually increases, the float device 13 floats up under the buoyancy of the gas-liquid mixture. Eventually, the float device 13 isolates the float chamber 1162 from the exhaust chamber 1163, preventing the gas-liquid mixture from entering the exhaust chamber 1163 and being discharged through the exhaust port 114, thus avoiding waste of the gas-liquid mixture. As more gas is separated, the gas pressure in the float chamber 1162 gradually increases. The gas squeezes the gas-liquid mixture in the float chamber 1162 back into the main separation chamber 1161, causing the liquid level of the gas-liquid mixture in the float chamber 1162 to drop. The float device 13 descends, and the float chamber 1162 connects with the exhaust chamber 1163. The gas in the float chamber 1162 enters the exhaust chamber 1163 and is finally discharged through the exhaust port 114.

[0082] In some embodiments, continuing to refer to Figure 4, the first partition 121 is provided with a boss 1212, which extends upward toward the side facing the second partition 122. The boss 1212 is frustum-shaped, with the cross-sectional area of ​​its upper end face being smaller than that of its lower end face. A first opening 1211 penetrates the boss 1212, forming a frustum-shaped through hole around the inner wall of the boss 1212. The cross-sectional area of ​​the inner ring of the upper end face of the boss 1212 is smaller than that of the inner ring of the lower end face. By setting the first opening 1211 as a frustum-shaped through hole, a certain suction force can be generated on the gas, facilitating the continuous rise of the gas into the float chamber 1162. When the bottom of the float device 13 abuts against the first partition 121, if the contact area between the bottom of the float device 13 and the first partition 121 is large, the liquid between the bottom of the float device 13 and the first partition 121 will squeeze out the gas between the float device 13 and the first partition 121. This results in a pressure between the float device 13 and the first partition 121 that is much lower than atmospheric pressure, making it difficult for the float device 13 to separate from the first partition 121. By providing a boss 1212, which protrudes from the upper surface of the peripheral portion of the first partition 121, the contact area between the float device 13 and the first partition 121 can be reduced, preventing the bottom of the float device 13 from sticking to the first partition 121 and facilitating the float device 13 to float under the buoyancy of the gas-liquid mixture.

[0083] In some embodiments, the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust chamber 1163 is smaller than the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the float chamber 1162. Thus, after the gas flows from the float chamber 1162 into the exhaust chamber 1163, the flow velocity increases, the exhaust efficiency is improved, and the volume of the expansion tank 10 is reduced. Specifically, the exhaust chamber 1163 can be cylindrical and approximately coaxial with the float chamber 1162; alternatively, the distance between the axis of the exhaust chamber 1163 and the axis of the float chamber 1162 can be set as needed.

[0084] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 5 As shown, the top surface of the exhaust chamber 1163 is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, and the exhaust port 114 is located at the highest point of the top surface of the exhaust chamber 1163. The part of the shell 11 corresponding to the top of the exhaust chamber 1163 has an angle of not 0° with the horizontal plane, and the gas can flow obliquely upward along the inner wall of this part of the shell 11 towards the exhaust port 114, thereby improving the exhaust efficiency.

[0085] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the top surface of the exhaust chamber 1163 is positioned closer to the filling port 113 at a higher elevation, so that the exhaust port 114 is positioned close to the filling port 113.

[0086] In practical applications, the gas-liquid mixture enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 through the first inlet 111. After entering the first separation chamber 116, the flow direction of the gas-liquid mixture changes under the action of the first baffle 118 and the second baffle 119. Under centrifugal force, the gas-liquid mixture flows downward in a rotating motion, closely adhering to the inner wall of the first baffle 118, and then flows from the second separation chamber 116 to the supply chamber 115, where it merges with the liquid in the supply chamber 115. The gas in the gas-liquid mixture is almost completely separated from the mixture due to the lack of centrifugal force. The separated gas enters the float chamber 1162 through the first opening 1211 on the first partition 121. At this time, a large amount of liquid has been separated from the gas-liquid mixture, and the gas-liquid mixture does not enter the float chamber 1162. The second opening 1221 is open, and the separated gas enters the exhaust chamber 1163 through the second opening 1221. As the amount of gas in the exhaust chamber 1163 increases, the pressure in the exhaust chamber 1163 increases. The gas is directly discharged from the expansion tank 10 through the exhaust port 114, or flows to the filling port 113 and is discharged from the expansion tank 10 through the filling port 113 together with the gas in the liquid supply chamber 115.

[0087] As the amount of gas discharged increases, the amount of gas in the gas-liquid mixture decreases, resulting in less gas being separated from the gas-liquid mixture. The liquid level in the main separation chamber 1161 rises, and the gas-liquid mixture enters the float chamber 1162. When the float device 13 experiences a certain amount of buoyancy from the liquid, the float device 13 floats upwards. Before the liquid level in the float chamber 1162 reaches the second opening 1221, the sealing part 131 of the float device 13 seals the second opening 1221, preventing the gas-liquid mixture in the float chamber 1162 from entering the exhaust chamber 1163.

[0088] The gas-liquid mixture continuously enters the main separation chamber 1161, and the separated gas continuously enters the float chamber 1162. The gas separated from the gas-liquid mixture accumulates at the top of the float chamber 1162, and the gas pressure gradually increases, causing the gas to push the liquid level in the float chamber 1162 to drop. When the liquid level drops to a point where the buoyancy force on the float device 13 is less than a set value, the float device 13 moves downward, the sealing part 131 separates from the second opening 1221, the second opening 1221 opens, and the gas in the float chamber 1162 enters the exhaust chamber 1163 through the second opening 1221 and is finally discharged from the exhaust chamber 1163.

[0089] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, the housing 11 includes a first housing 123 and a second housing 124. The first housing 123 is assembled above the second housing 124. A first separation cavity 11611 is disposed within the first housing 123, and a second separation cavity 11612 is disposed within the second housing 124. The housing 11 is designed as a split structure, with the first housing 123 and the second housing 124 divided into upper and lower housings along a horizontal plane, facilitating the molding of the various chambers within the housing 11 and making manufacturing more convenient. A second baffle 119 and a portion of a first baffle 118 corresponding to the first separation cavity 11611 are disposed in the first housing 123, and a portion of a first baffle 118 corresponding to the second separation cavity 11612 is disposed in the second housing 124. The annular first separation cavity 11611 is disposed in the first housing 123, and the frustum-shaped second separation cavity 11612 is disposed in the second housing 124, facilitating draft molding at the first baffle 118 and the second baffle 119.

[0090] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the housing 11 also includes a connecting portion 125, which is disposed on the first baffle 118. The second separation chamber 11612 is connected to the liquid supply chamber 115 through the connecting portion 125, so that the liquid in the second separation chamber 11612 flows into the liquid supply chamber 115 through the connecting portion 125. The connecting portion 125 can be an opening or a relatively long extension channel.

[0091] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, the first liquid inlet 111 is located in the first housing 123, and the connecting part 125 is located in the second housing 124. Thus, the gas-liquid mixture enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 from the first liquid inlet 111, which is located above the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, and rotates. The liquid flows downwards, collects at the bottom of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, and flows into the supply chamber 115 from the connecting part 125, which is located below the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, achieving a better gas-liquid separation effect.

[0092] In other embodiments, reference is made to Figure 7As shown, a first liquid inlet 111 is located in the first housing 123, and a connecting portion 125 is located in the first housing 123. The gas-liquid mixture enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 through the first liquid inlet 111 for gas-liquid separation. After accumulating to the height of the connecting portion 125 within the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, it flows into the liquid supply chamber 115 through the connecting portion 125. Alternatively, liquid with a certain flow rate enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 through the first liquid inlet 111, flows downwards along the inner wall of the first baffle 118, reaches the bottom, and then flows upwards along the inner wall of the first baffle 118 to the connecting portion 125, before flowing into the liquid supply chamber 115.

[0093] In yet other embodiments, reference is made to Figure 8 As shown, a first liquid inlet 111 is located in the second housing 124, and a connecting portion 125 is located in the first housing 123. The gas-liquid mixture enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 through the first liquid inlet 111 for gas-liquid separation. Once the mixture accumulates to the height of the connecting portion 125 within the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, it flows through the connecting portion 125 into the liquid supply chamber 115. Alternatively, liquid with a certain flow rate enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 through the first liquid inlet 111, flows upward along the inner wall of the first baffle 118, flows to the connecting portion 125, and then flows into the liquid supply chamber 115. In some other embodiments, refer to... Figure 9 As shown, the first liquid inlet 111 is located in the second housing 124, and the connecting part 125 is located in the second housing 124. The gas-liquid mixture enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 from the first liquid inlet 111 for gas-liquid separation, and the liquid flows through the connecting part 125 into the liquid supply chamber 115 after passing through a shorter path.

[0094] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 4 as well as Figures 6 to 10 As shown, the first liquid inlet 111 is located circumferentially in the first housing 123 or the second housing 124 and extends tangentially along the first baffle 118. The first liquid inlet 111 extends within the housing 11 to form a first liquid inlet channel 126, the axial extension direction of which is tangential to the circular cross-section of the first baffle 118. After the gas-liquid mixture enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 through the first liquid inlet 111, gas-liquid separation occurs. The separated liquid flows tightly against the inner wall of the first baffle 118 and rotates along the annular first separation chamber 11611 to form a vortex. If the first liquid inlet 111 does not extend tangentially, the gas-liquid mixture will flow directly downwards in a parabolic trajectory after entering the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 through the first liquid inlet 111.

[0095] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 1 , Figure 4 as well as Figures 6 to 10As shown, the connecting portion 125 is located circumferentially in the first housing 123 or the second housing 124 and extends tangentially along the first baffle 118. The axial extension direction of the connecting portion 125 is tangential to the circular cross-section of the first housing 123 or the second housing 124. The separated liquid flows in a vortex pattern along the inner wall of the first baffle 118 within the gas-liquid separation chamber 116. When the liquid flows to the connecting portion 125, it flows out of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 along the extension direction of the connecting portion 125, creating the effect of being thrown out of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, resulting in high liquid discharge efficiency. If the connecting portion 125 does not extend tangentially, the liquid will not easily flow out of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 and will accumulate within the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 until the pressure inside the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 becomes too high, forcing some of the liquid out of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, resulting in low liquid discharge efficiency.

[0096] In some embodiments, the first liquid inlet channel 126 and / or the connecting portion 125 extends in a straight line. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the first liquid inlet channel 126 and / or the connecting portion 125 extends along an annular curve around the outer wall of the first baffle 118.

[0097] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 10 As shown, the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 has a circular cross-section, and the first liquid inlet 111 and / or the connecting part 125 has a square longitudinal section. The connection between the square cross-section channel and the large-diameter circular cross-section channel that allows the liquid to rotate can produce a better fluid flow effect, improve the gas-liquid separation efficiency of the expansion tank 10, and improve the gas-liquid separation effect.

[0098] In some embodiments, the lower edge of the connecting portion 125 is disposed in contact with the bottom of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 to facilitate the outflow of liquid.

[0099] In some embodiments, the height of the connecting portion 125 is less than or equal to one-third of the depth of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116. Setting the height of the connecting portion 125 relatively low allows the gas-liquid mixture to flow in the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 for a longer period, ensuring sufficient time for gas-liquid separation. This prevents the gas-liquid mixture from being thrown out of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 by centrifugal force before sufficient time for gas-liquid separation when flowing close to the inner wall of the first baffle 118. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the width of the connecting portion 125 can be set relatively long, with a longitudinal section of the connecting portion 125 being a wide, low, flat opening. This results in a sufficiently large opening area for a sufficient amount of liquid to flow out of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 per unit time, improving drainage efficiency. The width-to-height ratio of the connecting portion 125 can be 3:1, 4:1, 5:1, 6:1, etc., and this disclosure does not limit the specific values.

[0100] In some embodiments, the first liquid inlet 111 is configured as a rectangle with a relatively high height and a relatively short width, so that the gas-liquid mixture has a large contact area with the inner wall of the first baffle 118 after entering the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, thereby enabling sufficient contact and better flow against the inner wall of the first baffle 118, rotating along the annular first separation chamber 11611 to form a vortex. The height-to-width ratio of the first liquid inlet 111 can be 3:1, 4:1, 5:1, 6:1, etc., and this disclosure does not limit the specific values.

[0101] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 As shown, the expansion tank 10 also includes an inlet pipe 14, which communicates with the first inlet port 111. The inlet pipe 14 is located circumferentially on the first housing 123 or the second housing 124 and extends tangentially to the first housing 123 or the second housing 124. By providing the inlet pipe 14, the square first inlet port 111 can be transformed into a circular cross-section flow channel, facilitating the connection of the expansion tank 10 to the thermal management system 20. The extending direction of the inlet pipe 14 is close to the side of the first housing 123 or the second housing 124, which not only allows for a better connection between the inlet pipe 14 and the first inlet port 111 extending tangentially to the first housing 123 or the second housing 124, resulting in smoother fluid flow within the pipeline, but also reduces the size of the expansion tank 10, facilitating the arrangement of components within the vehicle.

[0102] In some embodiments, the thermal management system 20 further includes a heat exchanger that performs refrigeration / cooling functions, connected to a fluid pipeline 21. The heat exchanger, expansion tank 10, and water pump 22 are connected through the fluid pipeline 21 to form a loop for refrigerant circulation.

[0103] In some embodiments, refer to Figures 11 to 14 As shown, the housing also has a second liquid inlet 127, which is connected to the liquid supply chamber 115. The expansion tank 10 includes a three-way valve 15, which is connected between the first liquid inlet 111 and the second liquid inlet 127. Thus, by setting the three-way valve 15, the liquid entering the expansion tank 10 can be selected to enter the liquid supply chamber 115 from the second liquid inlet 127 or enter the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 from the first liquid inlet 111. If the liquid directly enters the liquid supply chamber 115, the expansion tank 10 does not use the gas-liquid separation function of the gas-liquid separation chamber 116. By adjusting the three-way valve 15, the first liquid inlet 111 can be opened or closed, and the second liquid inlet 127 can be closed or opened. When the three-way valve is in the first working state (e.g. Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown), the first inlet 111 is open, and the second inlet 127 is closed. When the three-way valve is in the second working state (as shown), Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown), the first liquid inlet 111 is closed, and the second liquid inlet 127 is open.

[0104] Specifically, in some embodiments, the second liquid inlet 127 is disposed on the housing 11 corresponding to the periphery of the first liquid inlet channel 126, and the second liquid inlet 127 and the first liquid inlet 111 are disposed at intervals.

[0105] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the fluid pipeline 21 is connected to the three-way valve 15. When the three-way valve 15 is in the first working state, the fluid pipeline 21 is connected to the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 through the first liquid inlet 111, and the gas-liquid mixture in the fluid pipeline 21 enters the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 for gas-liquid separation. When the three-way valve 15 is in the second working state, the fluid pipeline 21 is connected to the liquid supply chamber 115 through the second liquid inlet 127, and the gas-liquid mixture in the fluid pipeline 21 enters the liquid supply chamber 115 and then returns to the fluid pipeline 21. The fluid in the thermal management system 20 entering the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 for gas-liquid separation will generate a certain fluid resistance, affecting the circulation efficiency of the fluid in the fluid pipeline 21. When the car is being maintained, such as when adding liquid to the expansion tank 10, the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 needs to work to remove a large number of air bubbles in the pipeline. However, there is no need to remove air bubbles during the manufacturing process, and there is also little need to remove air bubbles during driving. By setting a three-way valve 15, the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 can be closed under certain operating conditions, allowing the fluid to directly enter the liquid supply chamber 115. This results in low fluid resistance, high pipeline circulation efficiency, and improved working efficiency of the thermal management system 20.

[0106] The steps for using the expansion tank 10 in the automobile production process are as follows:

[0107] First, adjust the three-way valve to the second working state and close the gas-liquid separation chamber 116. Vacuum the thermal management system 20 through the expansion tank 10. After the vacuuming is completed, add refrigerant to the thermal management system 20. The remaining air in the thermal management system 20 is forced into components such as the heat exchanger and the expansion tank 10.

[0108] The second step is to start the vehicle and start the thermal management system 20. The water pump 22 in the thermal management system 20 drives the refrigerant to circulate. The gas-liquid mixture composed of refrigerant and gas in the thermal management system 20 flows into the expansion tank 10. The three-way valve is adjusted to the first working state, the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 is opened, and the gas-liquid mixture is separated by the gas-liquid separation chamber 116, and the gas in the gas-liquid mixture is discharged from the thermal management system 20.

[0109] Third, the vehicle is turned off, the water pump 22 of the thermal management system 20 stops working, and the remaining gas in the thermal management system 20 collects in the fluid line 21. Since some of the gas in the thermal management system 20 was discharged in the second step, the refrigerant in the expansion tank 10 is replenished into the thermal management system 20, and the liquid level in the expansion tank 10 drops. At this time, refrigerant is added to the thermal management system 20.

[0110] Fourth, after the vehicle has been turned off for a period of time, it is moved to the factory road test station for road testing. The vehicle is then restarted, the thermal management system 20 begins operation, and the water pump 22 circulates the refrigerant, repeating step two.

[0111] Fifth, after the vehicle road test is completed, most of the gas in the thermal management system 20 is removed, and the vehicle is ready to leave the factory. Before the vehicle leaves the factory, the thermal management system 20 is refilled with refrigerant for the last time, so that the liquid level of refrigerant in the expansion tank 10 is lower than the maximum liquid level line of the expansion tank 10.

[0112] During vehicle operation, the three-way valve is adjusted to the second working state, and the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 is closed. The water pump 22 drives the refrigerant to enter and exit from the liquid supply chamber 115 of the expansion tank 10, resulting in high heat exchange efficiency. The expansion tank 10 regulates the refrigerant flow rate in the thermal management system 20 to a suitable range, and also regulates the pipeline pressure in the thermal management system 20 to a suitable range.

[0113] During vehicle maintenance, the three-way valve is adjusted to the first working state, and the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 is opened. The cover of the expansion tank 10 is opened to add refrigerant. During the refrigerant injection process, a large amount of air is introduced into the thermal management system 20, forming a gas-liquid mixture. The gas-liquid mixture is driven by the water pump 22 into the gas-liquid separation chamber 116 of the expansion tank 10 for gas-liquid separation, allowing the gas to be discharged from the thermal management system 20.

[0114] This disclosure also provides a new energy vehicle, including a cabin, a battery, and the aforementioned thermal management system 20, with the cabin, battery, and thermal management system 20 connected. The new energy vehicle uses the thermal management system 20 to cool and heat the battery, ensuring the battery temperature remains within a suitable operating range under various conditions. The thermal management system 20 also cools and heats the cabin, guaranteeing passenger comfort and improving user experience. By applying the small-volume, lightweight thermal management system 20 to the new energy vehicle, the manufacturing cost is significantly reduced.

[0115] In the description of this disclosure, it should be understood that the terms "middle", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure.

[0116] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., 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. Thus, a feature defined with "first," "second," etc., may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this disclosure, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0117] In this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0118] In this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0119] It should be noted that when a component is described as "fixed to," "set on," "fixed to," or "mounted on" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is considered to be "connected" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component. Furthermore, when a component is considered to be "fixedly connected" to another component, the connection can be detachable or non-detachable, such as through socketing, snap-fitting, integral molding, welding, etc., which are achievable in conventional technologies and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0120] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0121] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this disclosure, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed. However, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the inventive concept of this disclosure, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the protection scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A thermal management system, characterized in that, include: Fluid piping; Water pump; and Expansion pitcher, including: The housing includes a first liquid inlet, a second liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, a filling port, a vent, a liquid supply chamber, and a gas-liquid separation chamber. The liquid supply chamber and the gas-liquid separation chamber are distributed laterally and are interconnected. The first liquid inlet and the vent are respectively connected to the gas-liquid separation chamber, and the liquid outlet and the filling port are respectively connected to the liquid supply chamber. The filling port and the vent are both located at the top of the housing, and the second liquid inlet is connected to the liquid supply chamber. The expansion tank includes a three-way valve connected between the first liquid inlet and the second liquid inlet. The fluid pipeline is connected to the first inlet and the outlet of the expansion tank, respectively, and is also connected to the water pump; When the three-way valve is adjusted to the first working state, the gas-liquid separation chamber is opened, the gas-liquid mixture is separated through the gas-liquid separation chamber, and the gas in the gas-liquid mixture is discharged from the thermal management system. When the three-way valve is adjusted to the second working state, the gas-liquid separation chamber is closed, and the water pump drives the refrigerant to enter and exit from the liquid supply chamber in the expansion tank.

2. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The gas-liquid separation chamber includes a main separation chamber, a float chamber, and an exhaust chamber. The main separation chamber and the float chamber are located below the exhaust chamber. The float chamber is located inside the main separation chamber and communicates with the main separation chamber. The first liquid inlet communicates with the main separation chamber, and the exhaust port communicates with the exhaust chamber.

3. The thermal management system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The main separation chamber includes a first separation chamber and a second separation chamber that are interconnected. The first separation chamber is located above the second separation chamber, the float chamber is located in the second separation chamber, the first liquid inlet is connected to the first separation chamber and the second separation chamber, and the second separation chamber is connected to the liquid supply chamber.

4. The thermal management system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The housing includes a first baffle and a second baffle. The first baffle divides the interior of the housing into the liquid supply chamber and the gas-liquid separation chamber. The second baffle is annular and located at the top of the housing. The second baffle extends downward from the top of the housing and together with the first baffle forms the annular first separation chamber.

5. The thermal management system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The housing further includes a first partition and a second partition, which extend laterally and are assembled with the second baffle to form the float cavity. The first partition is located on the side closer to the second separation cavity relative to the second partition. The second partition has a second opening, and the float cavity communicates with the exhaust cavity through the second opening. The first partition has a first opening, and the float cavity communicates with the second separation cavity through the first opening.

6. The thermal management system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first partition has a boss that extends upward toward the side of the second partition. The boss is frustum-shaped, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the upper end face of the boss is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the lower end face. The first opening passes through the boss, so that the inner wall of the boss forms a frustum-shaped through hole. The cross-sectional area of ​​the inner circle of the upper end face of the boss is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner circle of the lower end face.

7. The thermal management system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The second separation chamber is frustum-shaped, and the cross-section of the upper end face of the second separation chamber is larger than the cross-section of the lower end face.

8. The thermal management system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The expansion tank includes a float device assembled in the float cavity and moving up and down in the float cavity. The float device includes a sealing part. When the float device floats up to the sealing part and blocks the second opening, the float cavity and the venting cavity are isolated. and / or The maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust chamber is smaller than the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the float chamber; and / or The top surface of the exhaust chamber is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, and the exhaust port is located at the highest point of the top surface of the exhaust chamber.

9. The thermal management system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The housing includes a first housing and a second housing, the first housing being assembled above the second housing, the first separation cavity being disposed inside the first housing, and the second separation cavity being disposed inside the second housing.

10. The thermal management system as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The first liquid inlet is located in the first housing or the second housing; and / or The first liquid inlet is located circumferentially in the first housing or the second housing, and extends along the tangential direction of the first baffle; and / or The housing further includes a connecting portion, through which the second separation chamber is connected to the liquid supply chamber. The connecting portion is located in the circumferential direction of the first housing or the second housing and extends along the tangential direction of the first baffle. and / or The expansion tank also includes an inlet pipe that communicates with the first inlet port; the inlet pipe is located circumferentially in the first housing or the second housing and extends tangentially in the first housing or the second housing.

11. The thermal management system as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The housing also includes a connecting portion, which is disposed on the first baffle, and the second separation chamber is connected to the liquid supply chamber through the connecting portion.

12. The thermal management system as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The connecting portion is located in the first housing or the second housing.

13. The thermal management system as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The gas-liquid separation chamber has a circular cross-section, and the first liquid inlet and / or the connecting portion has a square longitudinal section; and / or The height of the connecting portion is less than or equal to one-third of the depth of the gas-liquid separation chamber.

14. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The vent and the filling port may be connected or not connected; and / or The filling port is located at the highest point of the shell.

15. The thermal management system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The expansion tank is located at the highest point of the thermal management system.

16. A new energy vehicle, characterized in that, include: The cockpit, the battery, and the thermal management system as described in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the cockpit, the battery, and the thermal management system are connected.

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