Hybrid vehicle, control method therefor, and thermal management system

Abstract

The application discloses a hybrid vehicle, a control method and a thermal management system thereof. The control method comprises the following steps: detecting the SOC of the hybrid vehicle; when the second set value S2 is less than the SOC and the SOC is less than or equal to the first set value S1, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are connected, so that the engine and the motor module are cooled in series; when the SOC is less than or equal to the second set value S2, the engine is operated, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are not connected, and the engine is independently cooled. According to the control method of the hybrid vehicle, the engine can be preheated before the engine needs to be operated, and the engine and the motor are independently cooled in the hybrid mode, so that the cooling liquid heated by the engine is prevented from heating the motor module, the temperature of the motor module is prevented from being too high to affect the service life of the motor module, and the risk is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicles, and in particular to a hybrid vehicle and its control method and thermal management system. Background Technology

[0002] Hybrid vehicles, generally referred to simply as hybrid vehicles, can operate in pure electric mode, hybrid mode, or gasoline mode. During vehicle operation, components such as the engine, motor, and battery generate a significant amount of heat, causing their temperatures to rise continuously. The efficiency and lifespan of these components necessitate a cooling system in hybrid vehicles that differs from that of traditional cars. This system must maintain the operating temperatures of the engine, motor, and battery within a reasonable range. Current cooling systems often fail to rapidly raise engine temperature, resulting in significant cold-start losses. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art.

[0004] To address this, the present invention proposes a control method for hybrid vehicles that can preheat the engine before it needs to be run, and in hybrid mode, the engine and motor are cooled independently.

[0005] This invention proposes a thermal management system for hybrid vehicles.

[0006] The present invention also proposes a hybrid vehicle having the above-mentioned thermal management system.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a control method for a hybrid vehicle includes a first cooling circuit for heat exchange with an engine and a second cooling circuit for heat exchange with a motor module. The control method includes the following steps: detecting the state of charge (SOC) of the hybrid vehicle; when a second set value S2 < SOC ≤ a first set value S1, controlling the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit to connect, so that the engine and the motor module are cooled in series; when SOC ≤ the second set value S2, the engine runs, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are not connected, and the engine is cooled independently.

[0008] According to the control method of the hybrid vehicle of the present invention, the need to run the engine is determined based on the detection of the battery charge. When the battery charge is low, the engine is preheated first. When the engine is running, the engine is cooled independently to avoid the coolant after heat exchange with the engine heating the motor module. This not only reduces engine wear and allows the fuel to burn completely, reducing fuel consumption, but also avoids the motor module temperature from being too high, which would affect its service life and reduce risks.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present invention, when the SOC (State of Charge) is greater than a first set value S1, the outdoor ambient temperature T is detected; when T ≤ the set temperature T1, the engine and the motor module are cooled in series.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, when T > set temperature T1, the engine downtime t is determined; when the downtime t > t1, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are connected to make the engine and the motor module connected in series for cooling, and after the set conditions are met, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are disconnected.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the set condition is that the series cooling time reaches a first set time Ti1.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, when the series cooling time has not reached the set time Ti 1, after the hybrid vehicle stops, the control method further includes: when the hybrid vehicle starts running again and satisfies the following conditions: the battery SOC > first set value S1, T > set temperature T1, and the shutdown time t > t1, determining whether the shutdown time TP of the hybrid vehicle exceeds the second set time Ti2; when TP ≥ Ti2, the series cooling time is reset until the first set time Ti 1 is reached; when TP < Ti2, the series cooling time continues to be timed until the first set time Ti 1 is reached.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, when the engine and the motor module are cooled in series, the engine oil pump is controlled to operate, and the engine oil exchanges heat with the first cooling circuit.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first cooling circuit includes a first cooling channel, a first circulating pump, and a first heat exchanger connected in series, the first cooling channel being disposed in the engine for heat exchange with the engine; the second cooling circuit includes a second cooling channel, a second circulating pump, and a second heat exchanger connected in series, the second cooling channel being disposed in the motor module for heat exchange with the motor module; the hybrid vehicle further includes a switching valve module, the switching valve module cooperating with the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit respectively to connect or disconnect the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present invention, the switching valve module includes: a first switching valve, which is connected to the first cooling channel, the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger respectively to control the switching connection between the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger; and a second switching valve, which is connected to the second heat exchanger, the first circulating pump and the second circulating pump respectively to control the switching connection between the second heat exchanger and the first circulating pump and the second circulating pump.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first cooling circuit includes a third heat exchanger disposed within an air duct that supplies air toward the vehicle interior environment.

[0017] A thermal management system for a hybrid vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a first cooling circuit, the first cooling circuit including a first cooling channel, a first circulating pump and a first heat exchanger connected in series, the first cooling channel being disposed in an engine for heat exchange with the engine; a second cooling circuit, the second cooling circuit including a second cooling channel, a second circulating pump and a second heat exchanger connected in series, the second cooling channel being disposed in a motor module for heat exchange with the motor module; a first switching valve, the first switching valve being connected to the first cooling channel, the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger respectively to control the switching connection between the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger; and a second switching valve, the second switching valve being connected to the second heat exchanger, the first circulating pump and the second circulating pump respectively to control the switching connection between the second heat exchanger and the first circulating pump and the second circulating pump.

[0018] The thermal management system for hybrid vehicles according to embodiments of the present invention can achieve independent cooling of the engine and motor modules, or series cooling of the engine and motor modules. It has a simple structure and simple and reliable control logic.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first cooling circuit includes a third heat exchanger disposed within an air duct that supplies air toward the vehicle interior environment.

[0020] A hybrid vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a thermal management system according to the above embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] The hybrid vehicle according to the present invention can achieve independent cooling of the engine and motor module, or it can achieve series cooling of the engine and motor module. It has a simple structure and simple and reliable control logic.

[0022] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 This is a control flowchart of a control method for a hybrid vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a control flowchart of a control method for a hybrid vehicle according to a specific embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a thermal management system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a flow diagram of a thermal management system in series cooling mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a flow diagram of a thermal management system in split-flow cooling mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure label:

[0030] Engine 1, Motor Module 2

[0031] First circulating pump 7, first heat exchanger 3, second circulating pump 6, second heat exchanger 4, first switching valve 9, second switching valve 8, third heat exchanger 10, replenishment tank 5. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0033] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not 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 the invention. Furthermore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0034] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; 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; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0035] The following is for reference. Figures 1-5 A control method for a hybrid vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is described. The hybrid vehicle includes an engine 1, a motor module 2, and a battery module. The motor module 2 includes a motor and an electronic controller connected to the motor. The hybrid vehicle includes a pure electric mode, a hybrid mode, and a fuel mode. In pure electric mode, the engine 1 does not operate, the motor module 2 operates to provide power, and the battery module provides electrical charge for the operation of the motor module 2. In hybrid mode, both the engine 1 and the motor module 2 operate. In fuel mode, the engine 1 operates, but the motor module 2 does not operate. The hybrid vehicle includes a first cooling circuit for heat exchange with the engine 1 and a second cooling circuit for heat exchange with the motor module 2. Specifically, the first cooling circuit circulates coolant for heat exchange with the engine 1, and the second cooling circuit circulates coolant for heat exchange with the motor module 2.

[0036] The control method for a hybrid vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0037] The State of Charge (SOC) of the hybrid vehicle is detected. In some examples of this invention, when the SOC is greater than a first preset value S1, it indicates that the battery is sufficiently charged, and the hybrid vehicle is controlled to operate in pure electric mode. For example, the first preset value S1 can be 27% of the battery charge. Of course, it is understood that the specific value of the first preset value S1 is not limited to this and can be set according to actual conditions.

[0038] When the second set value S2 < battery SOC ≤ first set value S1, the first and second cooling circuits are connected, allowing the engine 1 and motor module 2 to be cooled in series. In other words, when the second set value S2 < battery SOC ≤ first set value S1 is detected, it indicates that the vehicle is in a state of declining battery power, approaching the threshold of hybrid or fuel mode, which requires engine activation. At this time, by cooling the engine 1 and motor module 2 in series, the coolant that has exchanged heat with the motor module 2 can flow to the engine 1 to preheat it, allowing the engine coolant temperature to quickly reach the required level during engine operation. This reduces wear on the engine 1 and ensures complete fuel combustion, reducing fuel consumption. In some examples of this invention, the second set value S2 can be 25% of the battery power. However, it is understood that the specific value of the second set value S2 is not limited to this and can be set according to actual conditions.

[0039] When the battery charge SOC is less than or equal to the second set value S2, engine 1 operates, and the first and second cooling circuits are not connected, allowing engine 1 to be cooled independently. Specifically, when the battery charge SOC is less than or equal to the second set value S2, the hybrid vehicle enters a mode that requires engine operation, such as hybrid mode or fuel mode. At this time, the first and second cooling circuits are not connected, entering a split cooling mode, where the coolant in the first cooling circuit circulates to cool engine 1.

[0040] It should be noted that during engine 1 operation, the temperature of engine 1 is generally around 100°C. When motor module 2 is running, the temperature of motor module 2 is generally around 60°C. Therefore, the temperature of the coolant after exchanging heat with the running engine 1 will be relatively high. If this coolant is circulated into the second cooling circuit, it will cause the temperature of motor module 2 to be too high, which will not only fail to cool it down but also affect the service life of motor module 2.

[0041] Specifically, the first cooling circuit includes a first circulation pump 7 to power the flow of coolant in the first cooling circuit. The second cooling circuit includes a second circulation pump 6 to power the flow of coolant in the second cooling circuit. The circulation of coolant can be controlled by controlling whether the first circulation pump 7 and the second circulation pump 6 are operating.

[0042] According to the control method of the hybrid vehicle of the present invention, the engine is started based on the detection of battery power. When the battery power drops, the engine 1 is preheated first. When the engine 1 is running, the engine 1 is cooled independently to avoid the coolant after heat exchange with the engine 1 heating the motor module 2. This not only reduces the wear of the engine 1 and allows the fuel to burn completely, reducing fuel consumption, but also avoids the motor module 2 from overheating and affecting its service life, thus reducing risk.

[0043] According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the battery charge SOC > a first set value S1, the outdoor ambient temperature T is detected. Specifically, the outdoor ambient temperature T can be detected by a temperature sensor located outside the vehicle.

[0044] When T ≤ set temperature T1, it indicates that the outdoor temperature is low, and engine 1 is prone to icing. Engine 1 and motor module 2 are cooled in series, meaning the first and second cooling circuits are connected. Coolant flows through engine 1 and motor module 2, allowing the heat from motor module 2 to preheat engine 1, preventing engine malfunctions and avoiding problems such as oil pan icing and oil emulsification. In some examples of this invention, the set temperature T1 is set to 0°C. However, it is understood that the specific value of the set temperature T1 is not limited to this and can be set according to actual conditions.

[0045] When T > the set temperature T1, it indicates that the outdoor temperature is high and there is no risk of icing. The first and second cooling circuits can circulate independently, entering a split cooling mode, allowing engine 1 and motor module 2 to be cooled independently. In this case, the first cooling circuit can stop circulating, saving energy.

[0046] Furthermore, when T > the set temperature T1, the downtime t of engine 1 is determined; when the downtime t > t1, it indicates that the downtime of engine 1 is relatively long. The first and second cooling circuits are then connected, allowing the engine 1 and motor module 2 to be cooled in series. This utilizes the heat from the motor module 2 to preheat engine 1, fully heating the engine oil, improving oil life, preventing engine 1 malfunctions, and preventing problems such as oil pan freezing and oil emulsification. In some specific examples of this invention, the downtime t includes the downtime of intermediate stops. For example, the downtime t can be 720 hours. However, it is understood that the specific value of the downtime t is not limited to this and can be set according to actual conditions.

[0047] After the set conditions are met, the first and second cooling circuits are disconnected, entering a split-flow cooling mode. That is, after the engine 1 has been preheated for a period of time, the preheating of the engine 1 is stopped to save energy. In some examples of the present invention, when the hybrid vehicle is operating in pure electric mode and the first and second cooling circuits are disconnected, the first circulation pump 7 of the first cooling circuit can stop operating, causing the coolant in the first cooling circuit to stop circulating, in order to save energy.

[0048] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1As shown, the setting condition is that the series cooling time reaches a first set time Ti 1. In some examples of the present invention, the first set time Ti 1 can be 10 minutes. Of course, it is understood that the value of the first set time Ti 1 is not limited to this and can be limited according to the actual situation.

[0049] Furthermore, when the series cooling time has not reached the set time Ti 1, after the hybrid vehicle stops, the control method further includes:

[0050] When the hybrid vehicle is restarted and meets the following conditions: SOC > first set value S1, T > set temperature T1, and shutdown time t > t1, it is determined whether the shutdown time TP of the hybrid vehicle exceeds the second set time Ti2.

[0051] When TP ≥ Ti2, the series cooling time is reset until the first set time Ti1 is reached. In other words, the series cooling time needs to be maintained for the first set time Ti1. When TP < Ti2, the series cooling time continues to be timed until the first set time Ti1 is reached. That is, under the conditions that the battery SOC > the first set value S1, T > the set temperature T1, and the shutdown time t > t1, the sum of the series cooling time before the hybrid vehicle stops and the series cooling time after the vehicle restarts reaches the first set time Ti1.

[0052] In some examples of the present invention, the second set time Ti2 is 30 days. Of course, it is understood that the value of the second set time Ti2 is not limited to this and can be limited according to the actual situation.

[0053] According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the engine and the motor module are cooled in series, the engine oil pump is controlled to operate, and the engine oil exchanges heat with the first cooling circuit, thereby exchanging heat with the coolant in the first cooling circuit through the engine oil, so that the engine oil and the coolant can fully exchange heat, avoid phenomena such as oil freezing, and extend the oil life.

[0054] like Figures 3-5 As shown, in some embodiments of the present invention, the first cooling circuit includes a first cooling channel, a first circulating pump 7 and a first heat exchanger 3 connected together, and the first cooling channel is located in the engine 1 to exchange heat with the engine 1.

[0055] The second cooling circuit includes a connected second cooling channel, a second circulating pump 6, and a second heat exchanger 4. The second cooling channel is located in the motor module 2 to exchange heat with the motor module 2.

[0056] The hybrid vehicle also includes a switching valve module, which works in conjunction with the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit to connect or disconnect the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit.

[0057] Specifically, when the switching valve module activates and connects the first and second cooling circuits, coolant flows through the first and second cooling channels, thereby utilizing the heat from the motor module 2 to preheat the engine 1. When the switching valve module activates and disconnects the first and second cooling circuits, the first and second cooling channels are disconnected, and the coolant exchanging heat with the engine 1 and the coolant exchanging heat with the motor module 2 do not affect each other. This simplifies the structure of the thermal management system for the hybrid vehicle of this invention.

[0058] It should be noted that, in the description of this application, the connection between the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit means that the coolant can flow through the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel, and is not limited to all components in the first cooling circuit being connected to all components in the second cooling circuit. For example, when the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are connected, it can be that one of the first circulating pump 7 and the second circulating pump 6 is in the on state, or that the coolant flows through one of the first heat exchanger 3 and the second heat exchanger 4, or that both the first circulating pump 7 and the second circulating pump 6 are in the on state; no limitation is imposed here.

[0059] Furthermore, such as Figures 3-5 As shown, the switching valve module includes a first switching valve 9 and a second switching valve 8, wherein the first switching valve 9 is connected to the first cooling channel, the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger 3 respectively to control the switching connection between the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger 3.

[0060] The second switching valve 8 is connected to the second heat exchanger 4, the first circulating pump 7, and the second circulating pump 6 respectively to control the switching connection between the second heat exchanger 4 and the first circulating pump 7 and the second circulating pump 6.

[0061] Specifically, when engine 1 and motor module 2 need to be cooled in series, the first switching valve 9 activates to connect the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel, and the second switching valve 8 activates to connect the first circulating pump 7 and the second heat exchanger 4. For example... Figure 4 As shown by the middle arrow, under the driving action of the first circulating pump 7, the coolant flows through the first cooling channel, the second cooling channel, the second heat exchanger 4, and the second switching valve 8.

[0062] When independent cooling of engine 1 and motor module 2 is required (i.e., entering split-flow cooling mode), the first switching valve 9 activates to connect the first cooling channel and the first heat exchanger 3, and the second switching valve 8 activates to connect the second circulating pump 6 and the second heat exchanger 4. For example... Figure 5 As indicated by the arrow, the coolant in the first cooling circuit circulates between the first heat exchanger 3 and the first cooling channel, with the first circulation pump 7 providing the power for the circulation. Figure 5 As indicated by the arrows, the coolant in the second cooling circuit circulates in the second heat exchanger 4 and the second cooling channel, with the second circulation pump 6 providing the power for the circulation. This design, by including a first switching valve 9 and a second switching valve 8, simplifies the structure of the switching valve module and makes its control logic simple and reliable.

[0063] like Figures 3-5 As shown, in a further embodiment of the present invention, the first cooling circuit includes a third heat exchanger 10, which is disposed within an air duct that supplies air to the vehicle interior. Specifically, the hybrid vehicle also includes a fan that blows air into the air duct, allowing the air that has exchanged heat with the third heat exchanger 10 to enter the vehicle interior. Since the coolant exchanges heat with the engine 1 or the motor module 2, when the coolant flows through the third heat exchanger 10, it exchanges heat with the air in the air duct, thus heating the air. When the fan is running, it blows hot air into the vehicle interior, achieving the purpose of heating. Therefore, by providing the third heat exchanger 10, the heat generated by the engine 1 or the motor module 2 can be recovered and utilized.

[0064] like Figures 3-5 As shown, in some specific examples of the present invention, the third heat exchanger 10 is connected to the first circulating pump 7 and the first switching valve 9, respectively, such as... Figure 5 As shown, when the first and second cooling circuits circulate independently, the coolant after heat exchange with engine 1 flows through the third heat exchanger 10. Figure 4 As shown, when the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are connected, after the coolant passes through the first circulation pump 7, part of it flows through the engine 1, the motor module 2, and the second heat exchanger 4 back to the first circulation pump 7, and the other part flows through the engine 1 and the third heat exchanger 10 back to the first circulation pump 7, thereby making full use of the heat generated by the motor module 2.

[0065] In some examples of the invention, when the electrical charge SOC ≤ the second set value S2, the engine runs, the first switching valve 9 is in the closed state, the first cooling channel and the third heat exchanger 10 form a circulation loop, the coolant in the first cooling channel flows only through the third heat exchanger 10, which can speed up the warm-up rate and cancel the thermostat. Then the first switching valve 9 is activated to connect the first cooling channel and the first heat exchanger 3.

[0066] like Figure 2 As shown, in a specific example of the present invention, when the vehicle is started, there are the following modes:

[0067] Mode 1: Engine preheating

[0068] When 25% < SOC ≤ 27%, the vehicle's battery level is decreasing, approaching the edge of hybrid mode activation. At this time, cooling is used in series through the first switching valve 9 and the second switching valve 8, while the engine's electric oil pump is turned on to preheat the engine and reduce engine cold start losses.

[0069] Mode 2: Extended oil life in winter

[0070] When SOC > 27%, if the ambient temperature T ≤ 0℃, in order to reduce the occurrence of emulsification and freezing of engine oil, series cooling is adopted. At the same time, the electric oil pump of the engine is also turned on to allow the engine oil and coolant to fully exchange heat.

[0071] Mode 3: Extended engine oil life due to prolonged engine inactivity

[0072] When SOC > 27%, if ambient temperature T > 0℃, and engine downtime t > 720h (including intermediate stop times), run the series cooling for 10 minutes while simultaneously turning on the engine's electric oil pump to thoroughly agitate and heat the oil, thus improving oil life. If the series cooling time is less than 10 minutes before stopping, when starting the vehicle again, if the downtime is > 30 days, restart the 10-minute series cooling; if the downtime is < 30 days, run the remaining time.

[0073] Mode 4: Hybrid Operation

[0074] When SOC ≤ 25%, the engine starts to work and operates in hybrid mode. First, both outlets of the first switching valve 9 are closed, and the coolant in the engine only passes through the third heat exchanger 10 to speed up the warm-up rate. At the same time, the thermostat can be canceled. Then, the first switching valve 9 opens to perform split cooling.

[0075] The following is for reference. Figures 3-5 A thermal management system for a hybrid vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is described, the thermal management system being used to cool the motor module 2 and engine 1 of the hybrid vehicle.

[0076] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the thermal management system of a hybrid vehicle includes: a first cooling circuit, a second cooling circuit, a first switching valve 9 and a second switching valve 8. The first cooling circuit includes a first cooling channel, a first circulating pump 7 and a first heat exchanger 3 connected in series. The first cooling channel is located in the engine 1 to exchange heat with the engine 1.

[0077] The second cooling circuit includes a connected second cooling channel, a second circulating pump 6, and a second heat exchanger 4. The second cooling channel is located in the motor module 2 to exchange heat with the motor module 2.

[0078] The first switching valve 9 is connected to the first cooling channel, the second cooling channel, and the first heat exchanger 3 respectively to control the switching connection between the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger 3.

[0079] The second switching valve 8 is connected to the second heat exchanger 4, the first circulating pump 7, and the second circulating pump 6 respectively to control the switching connection between the second heat exchanger 4 and the first circulating pump 7 and the second circulating pump 6.

[0080] Specifically, when engine 1 and motor module 2 need to be cooled in series, the first switching valve 9 activates to connect the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel, and the second switching valve 8 activates to connect the first circulating pump 7 and the second heat exchanger 4. For example... Figure 4 As shown by the arrows, under the driving action of the first circulating pump 7, the coolant flows through the first cooling channel, the second cooling channel, the second heat exchanger 4, and the second switching valve 8.

[0081] When independent cooling of engine 1 and motor module 2 is required (i.e., entering split-flow cooling mode), the first switching valve 9 activates to connect the first cooling channel and the first heat exchanger 3, and the second switching valve 8 activates to connect the second circulating pump 6 and the second heat exchanger 4. For example... Figure 5 As indicated by the middle arrow, the coolant in the first cooling circuit circulates between the first heat exchanger 3 and the first cooling channel, with the first circulation pump 7 providing the power for the circulation. Figure 5 As indicated by the arrows, the coolant in the second cooling circuit circulates in the second heat exchanger 4 and the second cooling channel, with the second circulation pump 6 providing the power for the circulation. This design, by including a first switching valve 9 and a second switching valve 8, simplifies the structure of the switching valve module and makes its control logic simple and reliable.

[0082] The thermal management system for hybrid vehicles according to embodiments of the present invention can achieve independent cooling of engine 1 and motor module 2, or it can achieve series cooling of engine 1 and motor module 2. It has a simple structure and simple and reliable control logic.

[0083] Furthermore, the first cooling circuit includes a third heat exchanger 10, which is located within an air duct that supplies air to the vehicle interior. Specifically, the hybrid vehicle also includes a fan that blows air into the air duct, allowing the air that has exchanged heat with the third heat exchanger 10 to enter the vehicle interior. Since the coolant exchanges heat with the engine 1 or the motor module 2, when the coolant flows through the third heat exchanger 10, it exchanges heat with the air in the air duct, thus heating the air. When the fan is running, it blows hot air into the vehicle interior to achieve heating. Therefore, by providing the third heat exchanger 10, the heat generated by the engine 1 or the motor module 2 can be recovered and utilized.

[0084] like Figures 3-5 As shown, in some specific examples of the present invention, the third heat exchanger 10 is connected to the first circulating pump 7 and the first switching valve 9, respectively, such as... Figure 5 As shown, when the first and second cooling circuits circulate independently, the coolant after heat exchange with engine 1 flows through the third heat exchanger 10. Figure 4 As shown, when the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are connected, after the coolant passes through the first circulation pump 7, part of it flows through the engine 1, the motor module 2, and the second heat exchanger 4 back to the first circulation pump 7, and the other part flows through the engine 1 and the third heat exchanger 10 back to the first circulation pump 7, thereby making full use of the heat generated by the motor module 2.

[0085] In some examples of the present invention, such as Figures 3-5 As shown, the thermal management system also includes a coolant tank 5, which is connected to the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit respectively, so that coolant can be added to the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit through the coolant tank 5.

[0086] A hybrid vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a thermal management system according to the above embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] The hybrid vehicle according to the embodiments of the present invention can achieve independent cooling of engine 1 and motor module 2, or it can achieve series cooling of engine 1 and motor module 2. The structure is simple and the control logic is simple and reliable.

[0088] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the hybrid vehicle includes a controller and a temperature sensor for detecting the outdoor ambient temperature. The controller is used to detect the vehicle's state of charge (SOC). The controller is connected to a first switching valve 9 and a second switching valve 8, respectively.

[0089] When the detected SOC (State of Charge) is greater than the first set value, it indicates that the battery is sufficient. At this time, the hybrid vehicle is controlled to operate in pure electric mode. The outdoor ambient temperature T is detected by the temperature sensor. When T ≤ the set temperature T1, it indicates that the outdoor temperature is low and the engine 1 is prone to icing. The engine 1 and the motor module 2 are connected in series for cooling, that is, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are connected at this time.

[0090] When T > set temperature T1, determine the engine 1 downtime t; when downtime t > t1, it means that the engine 1 has been downtime for a long time, and control the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit to connect until the set conditions are met and then switch back to split cooling.

[0091] When the second set value S2 < the power SOC ≤ the first set value S1, the first switching valve 9 and the second switching valve 8 are controlled to connect the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit, so that the engine 1 and the motor module 2 are cooled in series.

[0092] When the electrical charge SOC is less than or equal to the second set value S2, the engine 1 runs, controlling the first switching valve 9 and the second switching valve 8 to make the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit disconnected from each other, and the engine 1 is cooled independently.

[0093] When the battery charge SOC is less than or equal to the second set value S2, the vehicle operates in hybrid mode. At this time, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit circulate independently, which allows the engine 1 and the motor module 2 to reach the optimal cooling temperature.

[0094] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the hybrid vehicle uses split cooling in pure electric mode and hybrid mode to maintain the engine and motor electronic control at their respective optimal operating temperatures.

[0095] In some embodiments of the present invention, the oil cooler can be placed at the engine outlet to exchange heat with the first cooling circuit to prevent the lubricating oil from freezing.

[0096] In some embodiments of the present invention, a third cooling channel for heat exchange with the battery may be provided, and the third cooling channel is connected to the second cooling circuit.

[0097] In some embodiments of the present invention, the heat exchanger in the refrigerant circulation path of the vehicle's air conditioning system may be configured to exchange heat with a second cooling circuit.

[0098] Other components of the hybrid vehicle according to embodiments of the present invention, such as the braking system and its operation, are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0099] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0100] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A control method of a hybrid vehicle, characterized by, The hybrid vehicle includes a first cooling circuit for heat exchange with the engine and a second cooling circuit for heat exchange with the motor module. The control method includes the following steps: Detect the State of Charge (SOC) of the hybrid vehicle; When the second set value S2 < SOC ≤ the first set value S1, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are connected to make the engine and the motor module connected in series for cooling. When the SOC of the battery is less than or equal to the second set value S2, the engine is running, and the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are not connected to each other, and the engine is cooled independently. When the energy SOC > the first set value S1, the outdoor ambient temperature T is detected. When T ≤ set temperature T1, the engine and the motor module are cooled in series. When T > set temperature T1, determine the engine shutdown time t; When the downtime t > t1, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are connected to enable the engine and the motor module to be cooled in series. After the set conditions are met, the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit are disconnected. The set condition is that the series cooling time reaches a first set time Ti1.

2. The control method for a hybrid vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the series cooling time has not reached the first preset time Ti1, after the hybrid vehicle stops, the control method further includes: When the hybrid vehicle is restarted and meets the following conditions: SOC > first set value S1, T > set temperature T1, and shutdown time t > t1, it is determined whether the parking time TP of the hybrid vehicle exceeds the second set time Ti2. When TP≥Ti2, the time for the series cooling is reset until the first set time Ti1 is reached; When TP < Ti2, the time for the series cooling continues to be counted until the first set time Ti1 is reached.

3. The control method for a hybrid vehicle according to any one of claims 1-2, characterized in that, When the engine and the motor module are cooled in series, the engine oil pump is controlled to operate, and the engine oil exchanges heat with the first cooling circuit.

4. The control method for a hybrid vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first cooling circuit includes a first cooling channel, a first circulating pump, and a first heat exchanger connected in series. The first cooling channel is located in the engine to exchange heat with the engine. The second cooling circuit includes a connected second cooling channel, a second circulating pump, and a second heat exchanger. The second cooling channel is located in the motor module to exchange heat with the motor module. The hybrid vehicle also includes a switching valve module, which cooperates with the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit to connect or disconnect the first cooling circuit and the second cooling circuit respectively.

5. The control method for a hybrid vehicle according to claim 4, characterized in that, The switching valve module includes: A first switching valve is connected to the first cooling channel, the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger respectively to control the switching connection between the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger; The second switching valve is connected to the second heat exchanger, the first circulating pump and the second circulating pump respectively to control the switching connection between the second heat exchanger and the first circulating pump and the second circulating pump.

6. The control method for a hybrid vehicle according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first cooling circuit includes a third heat exchanger, which is located in an air duct that supplies air toward the vehicle interior environment.

7. A thermal management system for a hybrid vehicle, characterized in that, The thermal management system is used to implement the control method as described in any one of claims 1-6, and the thermal management system includes: A first cooling circuit, comprising a first cooling channel, a first circulating pump, and a first heat exchanger, wherein the first cooling channel is located in the engine to exchange heat with the engine; The second cooling circuit includes a connected second cooling channel, a second circulating pump, and a second heat exchanger. The second cooling channel is located in the motor module to exchange heat with the motor module. A first switching valve is connected to the first cooling channel, the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger respectively to control the switching connection between the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel and the first heat exchanger; The second switching valve is connected to the second heat exchanger, the first circulating pump and the second circulating pump respectively to control the switching connection between the second heat exchanger and the first circulating pump and the second circulating pump.

8. The thermal management system for hybrid vehicles according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first cooling circuit includes a third heat exchanger, which is located in an air duct that supplies air toward the vehicle interior environment.

9. A hybrid vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the thermal management system according to claim 7 or 8.

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