Battery pack cold plate, heat exchange system, battery pack and vehicle

Abstract

The present invention discloses a cold plate of a battery pack, a heat exchange system, a battery pack and a vehicle, wherein the cold plate includes a diverter area, a first flow channel and a second flow channel. The diverter area is used to divert the incoming heat exchange fluid; the first flow channel and the second flow channel are used to exchange heat between different areas of the battery pack; the first flow channel and the second flow channel are respectively connected to the diverter area. A flow regulating member is provided in the diverter area; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the first temperature range, the flow regulating member is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel area to be greater than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel area; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the second temperature range, the flow regulating member is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel area to be less than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel area. It can adjust the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel area and the second flow channel area according to the different temperatures of the heat exchange fluid input to the cold plate during cooling or heating, and has the function of adjusting the flow distribution of different branches according to cooling or heating requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of batteries, and more specifically to a cold plate of a battery pack, a heat exchange system, a battery pack, and a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] In a battery pack composed of multiple cells, if the length of the cell is long, for example, greater than 400mm, the long cell length will result in a large temperature difference between the cell pole and the non-cell pole, especially when the battery pack is charging. Specifically, when charging the battery pack in a high-temperature environment, the cell poles generate a lot of heat, resulting in a large demand for cooling the cell poles; while when charging the battery pack in a low-temperature environment, the temperature of the non-cell poles of the cell is relatively low, which restricts the charging current and results in a large demand for heating the non-cell poles. The current liquid cooling system of the battery pack cannot adapt to the changes in heat exchange requirements in different areas of the battery pack during actual use. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present application is proposed to solve at least one of the above problems. According to a first aspect of the present invention, a cold plate of a battery pack is provided. The cold plate includes: a diverter area, a first flow channel, and a second flow channel. The diverter area is used to divert the incoming heat exchange fluid; the first flow channel and the second flow channel are used to exchange heat in different areas of the battery pack; the first flow channel and the second flow channel are respectively connected to the diverter area. The diverter area is provided with a flow regulating member; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the first temperature range, the flow regulating member is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel to be greater than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the second temperature range, the flow regulating member is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel to be less than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel; wherein, the lowest temperature in the second temperature range is greater than the highest temperature in the first temperature range.

[0004] In one embodiment of the present application, the diverter area includes an input channel, a third channel, and a fourth channel, wherein the third channel connects the input channel with the first channel, and the fourth channel connects the input channel with the second channel. The flow regulating member includes a diverter component, which is used to adjust the minimum cross-sections of the third channel and the fourth channel; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within the first temperature range, the diverter component is used to adjust the minimum cross-section of the third channel to be larger than the minimum cross-section of the fourth channel; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within the second temperature range, the diverter component is used to adjust the minimum cross-section of the third channel to be smaller than the minimum cross-section of the fourth channel.

[0005] In one embodiment of the present application, when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the first temperature range, the diverter member is used to block at least a portion of the cross-section of the fourth flow channel at the diversion point of the fourth flow channel; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the second temperature range, the diverter member is used to block at least a portion of the cross-section of the third flow channel at the diversion point of the third flow channel.

[0006] In one embodiment of the present application, when the diverter member comes into contact with the heat exchange fluid having a temperature in the first temperature range, the diverter member is configured into a first form to block at least a portion of the cross-section of the fourth flow channel at the diversion point of the fourth flow channel; when the diverter member comes into contact with the heat exchange fluid having a temperature in the second temperature range, the diverter member is configured into a second form to block at least a portion of the cross-section of the third flow channel at the diversion point of the third flow channel.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present application, the diversion member includes a fixed end and a free end connected to the fixed end; wherein, the fixed end is arranged at the diversion point between the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel; and the free end is configured into the first form or the second form according to the temperature of the heat exchange fluid it contacts.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present application, the free end is made of shape memory material.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present application, the flow regulating member further comprises: a temperature sensor and a displacement actuator. The temperature sensor is disposed in the diversion region and is configured to obtain the temperature of the heat exchange fluid in the diversion region. The displacement actuator is configured to configure the free end to the first configuration or the second configuration in response to a control signal, wherein the control signal is generated based on the temperature obtained by the temperature sensor.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present application, the channel cross-sections of the input channel, the third channel, and the fourth channel are all rectangular; the cross-section of the input channel at the bifurcation is divided into a first cross-section and a second cross-section by the tail of the free end; wherein the first cross-section connects the input channel and the third channel, and the second cross-section connects the input channel and the fourth channel; when the free end is configured to the first form, the area of ​​the first cross-section is greater than the area of ​​the second cross-section; when the free end is configured to the second form, the area of ​​the first cross-section is smaller than the area of ​​the second cross-section.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present application, the heights of the input flow channel, the third flow channel, and the fourth flow channel at the branching points are greater than the heights of the free ends.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present application, the free end includes a first curved portion connected to the fixed end, and a second curved portion connected to the first curved portion, wherein the second curved portion protrudes in a direction opposite to the protrusion direction of the first curved portion. When the free end is configured in the first shape, the first curved portion protrudes toward the third flow channel; when the free end is deformed into the second shape, the first curved portion protrudes toward the fourth flow channel.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present application, the flow regulating member further includes two plates, the fixed end is sandwiched between the two plates, and the fixed end is arranged at the branching point between the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel through the two plates.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present application, a limiting groove is provided on each of the two flow channel walls in the height direction of the flow channel at the branching point between the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel, and the two limiting grooves are positioned relative to each other; the fixed end and the two plates are arranged at the branching point between the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel through the two limiting grooves.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present application, the cold plate further comprises a confluence area, the confluence area comprising: an output flow channel, a fifth flow channel, and a sixth flow channel, wherein the fifth flow channel connects the output flow channel with the first flow channel, and the sixth flow channel connects the output flow channel with the second flow channel.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present application, the cold plate further includes: a first heat conducting plate and a second heat conducting plate; wherein, the first heat conducting plate is used to be thermally connected to the first region and the second region, and the diversion area, the first flow channel, the second flow channel and the confluence area are all arranged between the first heat conducting plate and the second heat conducting plate.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present application, the first flow channel is used to exchange heat for the first area of ​​the battery pack, and there are two first areas, which are respectively located at the two ends of the battery cells in the battery pack; the second flow channel is used to exchange heat for the second area of ​​the battery pack, and there is one second area, which is located between the two first areas. There are multiple first flow channels, and the multiple first flow channels are interconnected. The multiple first flow channels are arranged in two first flow channel areas, and the two first flow channel areas are connected by a connecting flow channel; one of the two first flow channel areas is connected to the diverter area, and the other is connected to the confluence area; there are multiple second flow channels, and the multiple second flow channels are interconnected. The multiple second flow channels are arranged in one second flow channel area, and the second flow channel area is located between the two first flow channel areas, and the second flow channel area is connected to both the diverter area and the confluence area.

[0018] According to a second aspect of the present application, a heat exchange system is provided, comprising: a cold plate of any one of the battery packs described above, a first supply device, and a second supply device. The first supply device is configured to input a first heat exchange fluid into the diversion region, the temperature of the first heat exchange fluid being within the first temperature range; and the second supply device is configured to input a second heat exchange fluid into the diversion region, the temperature of the second heat exchange fluid being within the second temperature range.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present application, the heat exchange system further includes: an acquisition module and a control module. The acquisition module is configured to determine whether the battery pack is being charged in a first charging mode or a second charging mode, wherein the charging temperature of the first charging mode is greater than the charging temperature of the second charging mode. When the charging mode determined by the acquisition module to be the first charging mode is used, the control module controls the first supply device to supply the first heat exchange fluid to the diversion area; when the charging mode determined by the acquisition module to be the second charging mode is used, the control module controls the second supply device to supply the second heat exchange fluid to the diversion area.

[0020] According to a third aspect of the present application, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a battery pack and any one of the above-mentioned heat exchange systems.

[0021] In one embodiment of the present application, the length of the battery cells in the battery pack is greater than 400 mm.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present application, the battery pack is divided into a first area and a second area; wherein, the number of the first areas is two, and the two first areas are respectively located at the two ends of the battery cell; the number of the second area is one, and the second area is located between the two first areas.

[0023] According to a fourth aspect of the present application, a vehicle is provided, comprising: a vehicle body, and any one of the above-mentioned battery packs arranged on the vehicle body.

[0024] According to the cold plate, heat exchange system, battery pack, and vehicle provided in the embodiments of the present application, a flow regulator is provided in the diversion area. When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in a first temperature range with a lower temperature, the flow regulator adjusts the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel to be greater than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in a second temperature range with a higher temperature, the flow regulator adjusts the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel to be less than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel. Compared to existing liquid cooling systems, the cold plate shown in the present application can adaptively adjust the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel and the second flow channel based on the temperature of the heat exchange fluid input to the cold plate during cooling or heating. Thus, it has the function of adaptively adjusting the flow distribution of different branches according to cooling or heating needs, so as to adapt to the changing heat exchange needs of different areas during actual use of the battery pack. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0026] Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of a cold plate and a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 A schematic top view of a flow distribution area and a flow confluence area in a cold plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3 A schematic top view of a first flow channel and a second flow channel in a cold plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic structural diagram of a diversion area in a cold plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a structural diagram of a flow regulating member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 6 An exploded schematic diagram of a flow diversion component and two plates according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a structural schematic diagram of a flow diverter component and two plates assembled together according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 8 A schematic side view of the assembly of a diverter component according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 9FIG1 is a schematic top view of the diversion area according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Reference numerals:

[0036] 10-battery pack 20-diversion area 21-third flow channel 22-fourth flow channel

[0037] 23-input flow channel 241-first diversion installation surface 242-second diversion installation surface

[0038] 243-third diversion installation surface 201-first side blocking angle 202-second side blocking angle

[0039] 203-first spacing 204-second spacing 205-limiting groove 31-first flow channel

[0040] 32-second flow channel 321-connecting flow channel 40-diverter component 41-fixed end

[0041] 411-first plate 412-second plate 42-free end 421-first bend

[0042] 422-second curved portion 431-first working surface 432-second working surface

[0043] 433-third working surface 434-fourth working surface 435-fifth working surface

[0044] 436-sixth working surface 437-seventh working surface 50-confluence area

[0045] 51-fifth flow channel 52-sixth flow channel 53-output flow channel

[0046] 61-first heat conducting plate 62-second heat conducting plate 71-input port 72-output port DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention more apparent, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all the embodiments of the present invention, and it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein. Based on the embodiments of the present invention described in the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative work should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0048] In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to provide a more thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without one or more of these details. In other instances, certain technical features well known in the art are not described to avoid confusion with the present invention.

[0049] It should be understood that the present invention can be implemented in different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. On the contrary, these embodiments are provided to make disclosure thorough and complete and to fully convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0050] The purpose of the terms used herein is only to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. When used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms "comprising" and / or "comprising", when used in this specification, determine the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups. When used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of the relevant listed items.

[0051] In order to fully understand the present invention, a detailed structure will be provided in the following description to illustrate the technical solution proposed by the present invention. Optional embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. However, in addition to these detailed descriptions, the present invention may also have other implementations.

[0052] The following embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the absence of conflict, the following embodiments and features in the embodiments may be combined with each other.

[0053] First, it is necessary to introduce the application scenario of the cold plate of the battery pack in this application. The cold plate of the battery pack is used in the battery pack to exchange heat with the battery pack to heat or cool the battery pack.

[0054] This application provides a cold plate for a battery pack, referring to Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 The cold plate includes: a diverter area 20, a first flow channel 31 and a second flow channel 32. The diverter area 20 is used to divert the incoming heat exchange fluid; the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 are used to exchange heat between different areas of the battery pack 10; the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 are respectively connected to the diverter area 20. The diverter area 20 is provided with a flow regulating component; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the first temperature range, the flow regulating component is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel 31 to be greater than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel 32; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the second temperature range, the flow regulating component is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel 31 to be less than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel 32; wherein, the lowest temperature in the second temperature range is greater than the highest temperature in the first temperature range.

[0055] In the above scheme, by providing a flow regulating member in the diversion area 20, when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the first temperature range with a lower temperature, the flow regulating member regulates the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel 31 to be greater than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel 32; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the second temperature range with a higher temperature, the flow regulating member regulates the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel 31 to be less than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel 32. Compared with existing refrigeration systems, the cold plate shown in this application can adaptively adjust the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 according to the different temperatures of the heat exchange fluid input to the cold plate during cooling or heating, thereby having the function of adaptively adjusting the flow distribution of different branches according to the cooling or heating requirements, so as to adapt to the changes in heat exchange requirements in different areas when the battery pack is actually used. The above-mentioned structures are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0056] When setting the diversion area 20, refer to Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 The function of the diversion area 20 is to divert the heat exchange fluid flowing into the diversion area 20, specifically, to divert the heat exchange fluid to the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 which are both connected to the diversion area 20. When the heat exchange fluid flowing into the diversion area 20 is introduced, an input flow channel 23 can be set in the diversion area 20, and the heat exchange fluid can be introduced into the diversion area 20 through the input flow channel 23. Figure 1 As shown, the cold plate is also provided with an input port 71, which is connected to the input channel 23 of the diversion area 20. The heat exchange fluid can be introduced into the cold plate through the input port 71. It should be understood that the method of introducing the heat exchange fluid into the diversion area 20 is not limited to the above-mentioned method of using the input channel 23. In addition, other methods of introducing the heat exchange fluid into the diversion area 20 can also be used. The input channel 23 can be arranged in a variety of ways. For example, the input channel 23 can be composed of a single channel or multiple channels.

[0057] like Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, when the incoming heat exchange fluid is diverted, a third flow channel 21 and a fourth flow channel 22 can be set in the diversion area 20, wherein the third flow channel 21 connects the input flow channel 23 and the first flow channel 31, and the fourth flow channel 22 connects the input flow channel 23 and the second flow channel 32. The diversion area 20 achieves diversion by diverting the incoming heat exchange fluid to the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. When the diversion area 20 is provided with an input flow channel 23, the input flow channel 23, the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 can be formed into a three-way structure such as but not limited to a T-shape, a Y-shape, etc. One of the flow channels in the three-way structure is the input flow channel 23, and the other two flow channels are the outflowing third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. Of course, the above only shows one way to achieve diversion. In addition, other ways of diverting the heat exchange fluid to the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 can also be adopted. For example, each of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 may be composed of multiple flow channels, and the multiple flow channels are connected in parallel.

[0058] The first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 are used to exchange heat between different areas of the battery pack 10. For example, the first flow channel 31 can exchange heat between the first area of ​​the battery pack 10, and the second flow channel 32 can exchange heat between the second area of ​​the battery pack 10. The first flow channel 31 can be arranged in a first flow channel area, and the second flow channel 32 can be arranged in a second flow channel area. The first flow channel area can exchange heat between the first area of ​​the battery pack 10, and the second flow channel area can exchange heat between the second area of ​​the battery pack 10.

[0059] When setting the first flow channel 31, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the first flow channel 31 is not only connected to the diversion area 20, but also used to dissipate heat from an area of ​​the battery pack 10. In a specific implementation, the structural material between the first flow channel 31 and the battery pack 10 can be made of a thermally conductive material, so that the heat exchange fluid flowing in the first flow channel 31 can exchange heat with the battery pack 10 to achieve cooling or heating of the battery pack 10. Figure 3 As shown, there can be multiple first flow channels 31, and the multiple first flow channels 31 are interconnected. The multiple first flow channels 31 can be connected in a manner such as, but not limited to, a circular U-shaped pattern from inside to outside or from outside to inside, a circular folded S-shape, multiple first flow channels 31 arranged side by side and connected at both ends, etc. When there are one or more first flow channel areas, each first flow channel area can be provided with multiple first flow channels 31. For example, there can be two first flow channel areas, and the multiple first flow channels 31 can be provided in both first flow channel areas.

[0060] When setting the second flow channel 32, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the second flow channel 32 is not only connected to the diversion area 20, but the second flow channel 32 is also used to dissipate heat from an area of ​​the battery pack 10. In specific implementation, the structural material between the second flow channel 32 and the battery pack 10 can be made of a thermally conductive material, so that the heat exchange fluid flowing in the second flow channel 32 can exchange heat with the battery pack 10, thereby cooling or heating the battery pack 10. The number of second flow channels 32 can be multiple, and the multiple first flow channels 31 are interconnected. The multiple second flow channels 32 can be connected in a manner such as, but not limited to: a circular U-shaped shape from the inside out or from the outside in, a circular folded S shape, multiple second flow channels 32 arranged side by side and connected at both ends, etc. When the number of second flow channel areas is one or more, each second flow channel area can be provided with multiple second flow channels 32. For example, the number of second flow channel areas can be one, and multiple second flow channels 32 can be provided in one second flow channel area.

[0061] refer to Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 The cold plate may further include a confluence area 50, which serves to converge the heat exchange fluid discharged from the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 before discharging the fluid from the cold plate. When the confluence area 50 is provided, it may include a fifth flow channel 51 and a sixth flow channel 52. The fifth flow channel 51 communicates with the first flow channel 31, allowing the heat exchange fluid flowing out of the first flow channel 31 to flow into the fifth flow channel 51. The sixth flow channel 52 communicates with the second flow channel 32, allowing the heat exchange fluid flowing out of the second flow channel 32 to flow into the sixth flow channel 52.

[0062] An output channel 53 may also be provided in the confluence area 50, and the output channel 53 is connected to the fifth channel 51 and the sixth channel 52, wherein the fifth channel 51 is connected to the first channel 31 and the output channel 53, and the sixth channel 52 is connected to the second channel 32 and the output channel 53. The confluence area 50 is used to merge the heat exchange fluids from the fifth channel 51 and the sixth channel 52 and discharge them from the cold plate. Figure 1As shown, an output port 72 is also provided on the cold plate, and the output port 72 is connected to the output channel 53 of the confluence area 50, and the heat exchange fluid in the cold plate can be discharged from the cold plate through the output port 72. The number of output channels 53 can be one or more. When the number of output channels 53 is one, a three-way structure such as but not limited to a T-shape, a Y-shape, etc. can be formed between the output channel 53, the fifth channel 51 and the sixth channel 52. One of the channels in the three-way structure is the outflow output channel 53, and the other two channels are the inflow fifth channel 51 and the sixth channel 52. It should be explained that the above method only shows several methods of the confluence area 50. In addition to these, other methods can also be used. For example, each of the fifth channel 51 and the sixth channel 52 can be composed of multiple channels, and the multiple channels are connected in parallel.

[0063] When determining the number of the diversion area 20, the confluence area 50, the first flow channel area and the second flow channel area, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 The number of first flow channel areas can be equal to the number of first regions in the battery pack 10, and each first region corresponds to a first flow channel area. The first flow channel 31 provided in each first flow channel area is used to exchange heat with the corresponding first region on the battery pack 10. Similarly, the number of second flow channel areas can be equal to the number of second regions in the battery pack 10, and each second region corresponds to a second flow channel area, and each second flow channel area is thermally connected to the corresponding second region on the battery pack 10. The number of diverter areas 20 and confluence areas 50 is at least one, that is, no matter how many first flow channel areas and second flow channel areas there are, at least one diverter area 20 and one confluence area 50 need to be provided. When there are multiple first flow channel areas or multiple second flow channel areas, multiple diverter areas 20 or multiple confluence areas 50 can be provided to achieve diversion or confluence between different first flow channel areas and second flow channel areas.

[0064] The following is an exemplary embodiment. The number of first regions on the battery pack 10 is two, and the two first regions are respectively located at two opposite end positions on the battery pack 10. Exemplarily, the battery cells in the battery pack 10 can be long battery cells. Long battery cells refer to battery cells whose length exceeds a preset value. For example, long battery cells refer to battery cells whose length is greater than 950 mm. Of course, it should be noted that the battery cells in the battery pack 10 are not limited to long battery cells. That is, the use of long battery cells in the battery pack 10 is not a limitation of the present application. For example, the battery cells in the battery pack 10 of the present application can also be short battery cells. Exemplarily, the length of the battery cells in the battery pack 10 of the present application can be greater than 400 mm. Specifically, the length of the battery cells in the battery pack 10 of the present application can be any value greater than 400 mm, such as 410 mm, 500 mm, 600 mm, 700 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1000 mm, 1200 mm, etc. At this time, the two first regions are respectively located at two ends of the battery cell of the battery pack 10 , that is, the two first regions are respectively located at two ends of the battery cell of the battery pack 10 in the length direction.

[0065] The number of the second area is one, and the second area is located between the two first areas. Figure 1 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 There are also two first flow channel regions, one corresponding to each of the two first regions. Each first flow channel region is used to exchange heat with the corresponding first region on the battery pack 10. There is also one second flow channel region, which is used to exchange heat with the second region on the battery pack 10. The second flow channel region is located between the two first flow channel regions. In this case, one diversion region 20 and one confluence region 50 can be provided.

[0066] Specifically, when connecting the diversion area 20 and the confluence area 50, one of the two first flow channel areas can be connected to the diversion area 20, and the other can be connected to the confluence area 50. Figure 2 and Figure 3 , one of the two first flow channel areas can be connected to the third flow channel 21, and the other can be connected to the fifth flow channel 51. The two first flow channel areas can be connected through the connecting flow channel 321, so that the heat exchange fluid flowing out of one first flow channel area can flow into the other first flow channel area through the connecting flow channel 321. The connecting flow channel 321 can be set on one side of the first flow channel area. The second flow channel area can be connected to both the diversion area 20 and the confluence area 50. Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the second flow channel area can be connected to both the fourth flow channel 22 and the sixth flow channel 52. Of course, when the connection method between the two first flow channel areas and the diverter flow channels in the diverter area 20 is changed, the connection method between the second flow channel area and the diverter flow channels of the diverter area 20 is also adjusted accordingly to ensure that the diverter area 20 is connected to one first flow channel 31 and one second flow channel 32. When the connection method between the two first flow channel areas and the converging flow channels in the converging area 50 is changed, the connection method between the second flow channel area and the converging flow channels of the converging area 50 is also adjusted accordingly to ensure that the converging area 50 is connected to one first flow channel 31 and one second flow channel 32. The diverter area 20 and the converging area 50 can be set on the same side of the cold plate to facilitate the connection between the cold plate and the external heat exchange fluid supply device and recovery device. Of course, the diverter area 20 and the converging area 50 can also be set on different sides of the cold plate.

[0067] It should be noted that the above only shows one arrangement of the diversion area 20 and the confluence area 50 . In addition, other arrangements may be used, for example, one diversion area 20 plus two confluence areas 50 may be used.

[0068] In addition, reference Figure 1 The cold plate may further include a first heat conducting plate 61 and a second heat conducting plate 62. The first heat conducting plate 61 and the second heat conducting plate 62 are used to exchange heat with the battery pack 10. The diverter region 20, the first flow channel 31, the second flow channel 32, and the confluence region 50 are all disposed between the first heat conducting plate 61 and the second heat conducting plate 62, so that the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 exchange heat with the battery pack 10 through the two heat conducting plates. When the diverter region 20, the first flow channel 31, the second flow channel 32, and the confluence region 50 are formed between the first heat conducting plate 61 and the second heat conducting plate 62, grooves of different distribution patterns may be formed on at least one of the first heat conducting plate 61 and the second heat conducting plate 62. When the first heat conducting plate 61 and the second heat conducting plate 62 are buckled together, these grooves respectively form the diverter region 20, the first flow channel 31, the second flow channel 32, and the confluence region 50. When forming these grooves on the heat conducting plate, the cross section of the groove can be carved into a rectangular cross section, so that when buckled together, the flow channel cross sections of the input flow channel 23, the third flow channel 21, and the fourth flow channel 22 can all be rectangular, simplifying the carving difficulty. And since the flow channel cross sections of the input flow channel 23, the third flow channel 21, and the fourth flow channel 22 are all rectangular, reference Figure 4 A first side blocking angle 201 can be formed at the connection between the input flow channel 23 and the third flow channel 21 , and a second side blocking angle 202 can be formed at the connection between the input flow channel 23 and the fourth flow channel 22 .

[0069] Of course, the cross-section of these grooves engraved on the heat conducting plate is not limited to the rectangular cross-section shown above. In addition, other shapes such as semicircular, trapezoidal, etc. can also be used as the groove shape. It should be understood that the above only shows one way to form the diverter area 20, the first flow channel 31, the second flow channel 32 and the confluence area 50. In addition, other methods can also be used. For example, multiple heat conducting plates can be used to form the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 respectively, and two separate tees can be used as the diverter area 20 and the confluence area 50. The diverter channels and the confluence channels in the diverter area 20 and the confluence area 50 can be used as separate channels.

[0070] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 4 The diversion area 20 is provided with a flow regulating member, which is used to regulate the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32. During adjustment, the flow regulating member is used to regulate the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 according to the temperature of the heat exchange fluid. Specifically, when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in a first temperature range with a lower temperature, the flow regulating member is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel 31 to be greater than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel 32. When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in a second temperature range with a higher temperature, the flow regulating member is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel 31 to be less than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel 32. Wherein, the lowest temperature of the second temperature range is greater than the highest temperature of the first temperature range.

[0071] During application, the temperature distribution in the first temperature range is usually low, and the heat exchange fluid in the first temperature range is usually used as a cold fluid to cool and dissipate heat for the battery pack 10. Specifically, the first area on the battery pack 10 can be cooled and dissipated. At this time, under the working conditions of the battery pack 10, the temperature of the first area of ​​the battery pack 10 is usually higher than the temperature of the second area, and the cooling demand for the first area is also significantly higher than the cooling demand for the first area. Through the cold plate shown in this application, the flow rate of the cold fluid (temperature in the first temperature range) distributed to the first flow channel 31 can be increased, thereby improving the cooling efficiency and effect of the first area of ​​the battery pack 10, effectively reducing the temperature difference of the battery pack 10, and solving the temperature difference problem when the battery pack 10 is charging.

[0072] The temperature distribution in the second temperature range is usually higher, and the heat exchange fluid in the second temperature range is usually used as a hot fluid to heat the battery pack 10. Specifically, the second area on the battery pack 10 can be heated. At this time, under the working condition of the battery pack 10, although the temperature of the first area of ​​the battery pack 10 is higher than the temperature of the second area, the temperature of the second area is relatively low, which is not conducive to the normal operation of the battery pack 10 under this working condition. It is necessary to heat the second area of ​​the battery pack 10. Through the radiator shown in the present application, the flow rate of the hot fluid (temperature in the second temperature range) distributed to the second flow channel 32 can be increased, thereby improving the efficiency and effect of heating the second area of ​​the battery pack 10, effectively reducing the temperature difference of the battery pack 10, solving the contradiction between the difference in the heat exchange fluid flow rate requirements of the battery cell pole area and the non-battery cell pole area under different working conditions of the battery pack 10, and solving the temperature difference problem when the battery pack 10 is charging.

[0073] It can be seen from this that compared with the existing liquid cooling system, the cold plate shown in the present application can adaptively adjust the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 according to the different temperatures of the heat exchange fluid input into the cold plate during cooling or heating, thereby having the function of adaptively adjusting the flow distribution of different branches according to cooling or heating needs, so as to adapt to the changes in heat exchange requirements in different areas when the battery pack is actually used.

[0074] When setting the flow adjustment part, refer to Figure 4 、 Figure 5 and Figure 9 , the flow regulating part may include a diverter component 40, which is used to adjust the minimum cross-section of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. It should be explained that the minimum cross-section refers to the cross-section at the smallest cross-section in the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. The size of the minimum cross-section of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 is usually related to the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid diverted into the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. The smaller the area of ​​the minimum cross-section, the smaller the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid diverted into the flow channel; the larger the area of ​​the minimum cross-section, the larger the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid diverted into the flow channel. The diverter component 40 is related to the temperature of the heat exchange fluid when specifically adjusting the minimum cross-section of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. Specifically, when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the first temperature range, the diverter component 40 is used to adjust the minimum cross-section of the third flow channel 21 to be larger than the minimum cross-section of the fourth flow channel 22; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the second temperature range, the diverter component 40 is used to adjust the minimum cross-section of the third flow channel 21 to be smaller than the minimum cross-section of the fourth flow channel 22.

[0075] When adjusting the minimum cross-section of the flow channel, the diverter member 40 can partially or completely block the cross-section of the third flow channel or the fourth flow channel at the diversion point, thereby adjusting the minimum cross-section of the third flow channel or the fourth flow channel 22 at the inlet, affecting the flow resistance in the local area, and adaptively adjusting the flow rate into the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32. The diverter member 40 can be composed of any structure such as, but not limited to, a sheet structure, a block structure, etc. that can block the flow cross-section of the first diverter channel and the second diverter channel.

[0076] The specific determination of whether the diverter member 40 partially or completely blocks the cross-section of the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel 22 at the diversion point is related to the temperature of the heat exchange fluid in the diversion area 20. When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within the first temperature range, the diverter member 40 is used to block at least a portion of the cross-section of the fourth flow channel 22 at the diversion point. Specifically, the diverter member 40 can be used to block a portion of the cross-section of the fourth flow channel 22 at the diversion point, or the diverter member 40 can be used to block the entire cross-section of the fourth flow channel 22 at the diversion point. This ensures that the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the third flow channel 21 is greater than the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the fourth flow channel 22, thereby regulating the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel 31 to be greater than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel 32.

[0077] When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within the second temperature range, the diverter member 40 is used to block at least a portion of the cross-section of the third flow channel 21 at the diversion point of the third flow channel 21. Specifically, the diverter member 40 can be used to block a portion of the cross-section of the third flow channel 21 at the diversion point of the third flow channel 21, or the diverter member 40 can be used to block the entire cross-section of the third flow channel 21 at the diversion point of the third flow channel 21. This ensures that the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the third flow channel 21 is less than the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the fourth flow channel 22, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the first flow channel 31 to be less than the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the second flow channel 32.

[0078] When determining the location of the diverter member 40, refer to Figure 4 、 Figure 5 and Figure 9, the diverter member 40 can be set at the diversion point of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. Through the diverter member 40, such as but not limited to deformation, toggling, swinging, sliding and the like, the diverter member 40 is configured to: block at least the cross-section of the diversion point of the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel 22, thereby achieving the function of adjusting the diversion flow of the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel. That is, the diverter member 40 blocks at least part of the cross-section of the diversion point of the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel by means such as but not limited to deformation, toggling, swinging, sliding and the like. Of course, the setting position of the diverter member 40 is not limited to the setting at the diversion point of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 shown above. In addition, it can also be set at other positions that can adjust the flow of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. It should also be noted that the method by which the flow diverting member 40 regulates the diverted flow rate of the third and fourth flow channels 22 is not limited to the aforementioned method of blocking at least a portion of the cross-section of the third or fourth flow channel 21 or 22 at the diversion point. Other methods may also be employed. For example, the method may include blocking the outlet cross-section of the third or fourth flow channel 21 or 22 or the cross-section at a predetermined intermediate position.

[0079] The following mainly introduces the way in which the diverter member 40 blocks the cross-section of the diversion point of the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel 22 by deformation. Specifically, the diverter member 40 is in two different forms when blocking the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel 22, and the diverter member 40 can freely convert between these two different forms by deformation. Specifically, when the diverter member 40 contacts the heat exchange fluid with a temperature in the first temperature range, the diverter member 40 is configured to the first form to block at least part of the cross-section of the fourth flow channel 22 at the diversion point of the fourth flow channel 22. When the diverter member 40 contacts the heat exchange fluid with a temperature in the second temperature range, the diverter member 40 is configured to the second form to block at least part of the cross-section of the third flow channel 21 at the diversion point of the third flow channel 21.

[0080] refer to Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 When the deformable diverter member 40 is arranged at the diversion point between the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22, the diverter member 40 may include a fixed end 41 that does not deform, and a free end 42 connected to the fixed end 41. The fixed end 41 is arranged at the diversion point between the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. The free end 42 can be configured into a first form or a second form according to the temperature of the heat exchange fluid it contacts. It should be understood that the method of using the fixed end 41 and the free end 42 as the diverter member 40 is only one structural method of the diverter member 40. In addition to this, other structural methods can also be used. For example, the entire diverter member 40 only has a deformable free end 42, and does not need a fixed end 41.

[0081] When the fixed end 41 of the diverting member 40 is set at the diverting position between the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22, various methods can be used. Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 The flow regulating member may further include two plates, with the fixed pipe clamp disposed between the two plates. The fixed end 41 is disposed at the junction between the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 via the two plates. Specifically, the two plates may be a first plate 411 and a second plate 412, respectively, for clamping the fixed end 41. The fixed end 41 is disposed at the junction between the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 via the first plate 411 and the second plate 412. The first plate 411 and the second plate 412 may be made of metal to improve rigidity and strength.

[0082] When the first plate 411, the fixed end 41 and the second plate 412 are assembled together, the two plates and the fixed end 41 can be combined together by means such as but not limited to gluing or welding. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first plate 411 on the left side of the fixed end 41 has a first working surface 431, and the second plate 412 on the right side of the fixed end 41 has a third working surface 433. Correspondingly, the fixed end 41 has a second working surface 432 and a fourth working surface 434. The first working surface 431 of the first plate 411 on the left side and the second working surface 432 of the fixed end 41 can be assembled together by methods such as, but not limited to, gluing or welding, and the third working surface 433 of the second plate 412 on the right side and the fourth working surface 434 of the fixed end 41 can be assembled together by methods such as, but not limited to, gluing or welding. When the first and second plates 411, 412 are assembled with the fixed end 41, a fifth working surface 435 is formed at the upper portions of the fixed end 41, the first and second plates 411, 412; a sixth working surface 436 is formed at the lower portions of the fixed end 41, the first and second plates 411, 412; and a seventh working surface 437 is formed at the rear ends of the fixed end 41, the first and second plates 411, 412. The fifth, sixth, and seventh working surfaces 435, 436, and 437 can be polished and smoothed on the side surfaces of the first and second plates 411, 412, and fixed end 41 before or after assembly to facilitate subsequent connection to the pipe wall of the diversion region 20. By clamping the fixed end 41 by the first plate 411 and the second plate 412, it is not only convenient to set the fixed end 41 at the diversion point of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22, but also the reliability of the fixation can be increased to prevent the fixed end 41 from shaking during the deformation of the free end 42.

[0083] refer to Figure 5 、 Figure 7 and Figure 8The junction between the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 can be located on two flow channel walls in the height direction of the flow channels, each of which can be provided with a limiting groove 205, with the two limiting grooves 205 positioned opposite each other. The fixed end 41 and the two plates are arranged at the junction between the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 via the two limiting grooves 205. It should be noted that the height direction refers to the direction perpendicular to the surface of the cold plate with the largest area. Figure 8 The up and down direction in is the height direction. Figure 8 Two opposite limiting grooves 205 are provided on the upper and lower tube walls at the diversion point of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. The upper and lower ends of the fixed end 41, the first plate 411 and the second plate 412 are respectively arranged in the two limiting grooves 205 to further improve the stability and reliability of the fixation of the diversion component 40 and facilitate installation.

[0084] When assembling in the above manner, if Figure 5 、 Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, for example, the following method can be used. The width of the fixed end 41 can be about 0.5 to 1 mm greater than the flow channel height. It should be explained that the flow channel height here refers to the distance between the two flow channel walls opposite to each other in the height direction of the flow channel. Figure 8 For reference, the channel height refers to the distance between the upper and lower walls of the channel in the diversion area 20. A 0.25-0.5 mm deep retaining groove 205 is machined on the upper wall of the diversion area between the third and fourth channels 21, 22. The bottom surface of this retaining groove 205 serves as the second diversion mounting surface 242. A 0.25-0.5 mm deep retaining groove 205 is machined on the lower wall of the diversion area between the third and fourth channels 21, 22. The bottom surface of this retaining groove 205 serves as the third diversion mounting surface 243, and this retaining groove 205 is positioned opposite the retaining groove 205 above. The side wall of the flow channel at the junction of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 serves as the first diversion mounting surface 241. The rear ends of the fixed end 41, the first plate 411, and the second plate 412 form the seventh working surface 437, which can be assembled on the first diversion mounting surface 241 by methods such as, but not limited to, gluing or welding. The fifth working surface 435 formed on the upper part of the fixed end 41, the first plate 411, and the second plate 412 can be assembled on the second diversion mounting surface 242 by methods such as, but not limited to, gluing or welding. The sixth working surface 436 formed on the lower part of the fixed end 41, the first plate 411, and the second plate 412 can be assembled on the third diversion mounting surface 243 by methods such as, but not limited to, gluing or welding. At this point, the upper and lower ends of the fixed end 41, the first plate 411, and the second plate 412 are respectively assembled in the two limit grooves 205.

[0085] It should be understood that the above only illustrates several embodiments for disposing the fixed end 41 at the junction between the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. In addition, other embodiments for disposing the fixed end 41 at the junction between the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 may also be employed. For example, the fixed end 41 may be directly fixed within the retaining groove 205 without using two plates. For example, a hole may be punched in the first heat conducting plate 61 or the second heat conducting plate 62, the diverter member 40 may be inserted into the hole, and the diverter member 40 may be fixed to the first heat conducting plate 61 or the second heat conducting plate 62 using a sealing gasket and bolts, thereby completing the disposition of the fixed end 41 of the diverter member 40.

[0086] A variety of methods can be used to achieve deformation of the free end 42. For example, the free end 42 can be made of a shape memory material, such as, but not limited to, a shape memory alloy or a thermotropic shape memory polymer. Leveraging the shape memory effect of the shape memory material, the free end 42 can be deformed into a first form upon contact with a heat exchange fluid in a first temperature range, and into a second form upon contact with a heat exchange fluid in a second temperature range. The shape memory material has an adaptive phase transition temperature. When the shape memory material is above the phase transition temperature, the shape memory material is in a high-temperature phase; when the shape memory material is below the phase transition temperature, the shape memory material is in a low-temperature phase. When a shape memory alloy is used as the shape memory material, the shape memory alloy is a material composed of two or more metallic elements that exhibits a shape memory effect through thermoelastic and martensitic phase transformations and their inverse transformations. Differences in composition within the shape memory alloy can result in differences in phase transition temperatures. The shape memory alloy can be, for example, but not limited to, an alloy composed of titanium and nickel in a predetermined ratio. For example, a shape memory alloy with the grade TiNi-01 (a titanium-nickel shape memory alloy) and a phase transition temperature range of 20°C to 40°C can be used. The phase transition temperature of this type of shape memory alloy has a high degree of overlap with the temperature range of the heat exchange fluid in the heat exchange system of the lithium-ion battery pack, and has good application feasibility.

[0087] Of course, it should be noted that the method for configuring the free end 42 into the first and second configurations is not limited to the method shown above; other methods may also be used. For example, the flow regulating member may further include: a temperature sensor and a displacement actuator. The temperature sensor is disposed in the diverter region 20 and is used to obtain the temperature of the heat exchange fluid in the diverter region 20. The displacement actuator is used to configure the diverter member 40 into the first or second configuration based on a control signal. The control signal is generated based on the temperature obtained by the temperature sensor. A controller with a control function may be used. The controller generates a control signal based on the temperature obtained by the temperature sensor to control the displacement actuator to deform the diverter member 40. The controller may be a controller such as, but not limited to, a single-chip microcomputer or a processor. The controller may be embedded in the temperature sensor, included in the displacement actuator, or a separate device independent of the temperature sensor and the displacement actuator. When configuring the displacement actuator, a piezoelectric ceramic module may be selected as the displacement actuator, such as, but not limited to, a piezoelectric ceramic module. The free end 42 is configured into the first or second configuration primarily by using the temperature signal obtained by the temperature sensor and an electrical control signal dependent on the temperature signal. Of course, it should be noted that the type of control signal is not limited to the electrical control signal, and the type of control signal can be adjusted accordingly according to the specific displacement actuator.

[0088] When the cross-sections of the input flow channel 23, the third flow channel 21, and the fourth flow channel 22 are all rectangular, refer to Figure 9 The cross-section of the input flow channel 23 at the flow split can be divided into a first cross-section and a second cross-section by the tail of the free end 42. The first cross-section connects the input flow channel 23 with the third flow channel 21, and the second cross-section connects the input flow channel 23 with the fourth flow channel 22. By adjusting the cross-sectional areas of the first and second cross-sections, the free end 42 can adjust the cross-sections of the third and fourth flow channels 21, 22 at the flow split, thereby adjusting the minimum cross-sections of the third and fourth flow channels 21, 22.

[0089] During specific adjustment, when the free end 42 is configured in the first configuration, the area of ​​the first cross-section is greater than the area of ​​the second cross-section, so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the third flow channel 21 at the branching point is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth flow channel 22 at the branching point, thereby causing the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the third flow channel 21 to be greater than the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the fourth flow channel 22. When the free end 42 is configured in the second configuration, the area of ​​the first cross-section is smaller than the area of ​​the second cross-section, so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the third flow channel 21 at the branching point is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth flow channel 22 at the branching point, thereby causing the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the third flow channel 21 to be smaller than the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid flowing into the fourth flow channel 22.

[0090] refer to Figure 9After the free end 42 is configured in the first or second configuration, the spacing between the tail of the free end 42 and the first and second side blocking angles 201, 202 may be larger or smaller. For ease of description, the gap between the tail of the free end 42 and the first side blocking angle 201 is referred to as the first spacing 203, and the gap between the tail of the free end 42 and the second side blocking angle 202 is referred to as the second spacing 204. When the free end 42 is configured in the first configuration, the first spacing 203 is larger than the second spacing 204. Since the flow channels are at the same height at the split point, the area of ​​the first cross-section is larger than the area of ​​the second cross-section. When the free end 42 is configured in the second configuration, the first spacing 203 is smaller than the second spacing 204. Similarly, since the flow channels are at the same height at the split point, the area of ​​the first cross-section is smaller than the area of ​​the second cross-section. In other words, the size of the first spacing 203 and the second spacing 204 determine the flow distribution of the heat exchange fluid diverted to the first and second flow channels 31, 32. By adopting an input flow channel 23, a third flow channel 21 and a fourth flow channel 22 with rectangular cross-sections, the inlets of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 are made into flat end faces, so that the free end 42 of the diversion component 40 can more accurately and conveniently control the cross-sectional area of ​​the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 at the diversion point.

[0091] refer to Figure 8 , it is also possible to make the flow channel heights of the input flow channel 23, the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 at the branching point greater than the height of the free end 42. It should be explained that the height of the free end 42 refers to: the distance between the two opposite surfaces of the free end 42 in the height direction. Figure 8 The figure is for reference only. The channel height refers to the distance between the upper and lower channel walls of the channel; the height of the free end 42 refers to the distance between the upper and lower surfaces of the free end 42. When the channel heights of the input channel 23, the third channel 21, and the fourth channel 22 at the diverging point are greater than the height of the free end 42, the channel walls of the input channel 23, the third channel 21, and the fourth channel 22 at the diverging point do not contact the free end 42, allowing the free end 42 to deform freely.

[0092] For example, combined Figure 8 There are gaps between the upper and lower tube walls of the input channel 23, the third channel 21 and the fourth channel 22 and the upper and lower edges of the free end 42, so that when the free end 42 is configured from the first form to the second form, or from the second form to the first form, the upper and lower channel walls of the input channel 23, the third channel 21 and the fourth channel 22 can not contact the free end 42, ensuring the free deformation of the free end 42. When determining the parameters of each structure, the height of the free end 42 ( Figure 8The distance between the upper and lower surfaces of the free end 42 is 0.5-1 mm narrower than the flow channel height to ensure that the free end 42 does not interfere with the upper and lower flow channel walls of the diverter section 20, allowing the free end 42 to deform freely. In a more preferred embodiment, the free end 42 can be centered in the flow channel height direction, that is, the upper surface of the free end 42 is 0.25-0.5 mm away from the upper flow channel wall of the diverter section 20, and the lower surface of the free end 42 is 0.25-0.5 mm away from the lower flow channel wall of the diverter section 20. As can be seen above, when setting the height of the free end 42, the height of the free end 42 can always be slightly narrower than the flow channel height of the diverter section 20 to ensure the diversion effect on the flow channel of the diverter section 20 after deformation of the free end 42.

[0093] It should be noted that when the cross-sections of the input flow channel 23, the third flow channel 21, and the fourth flow channel 22 are non-rectangular, the deformation of the free end 42 described above can still be used to at least partially block the cross-section of the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel 22 at the junction of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22. It should be noted that when the cross-sections of the input flow channel 23, the third flow channel 21, and the fourth flow channel 22 are non-rectangular, the two side block angles described above may or may not be formed. However, the minimum cross-sections of the third flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 22 can still be adjusted by controlling the size of the cross-section at the junction of the free end 42 blocking the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel 22.

[0094] When setting the free end 42, refer to Figure 7 The free end 42 may include: a first curved portion 421 and a second curved portion 422, wherein the first curved portion 421 is connected to the fixed end 41, the second curved portion 422 is connected to the first curved portion 421, and the protruding direction of the second curved portion 422 is opposite to the protruding direction of the first curved portion 421. When the free end 42 is configured in the first form, the first curved portion 421 protrudes toward the third flow channel 21, as shown in FIG. Figure 9 As shown, the first curved portion 421 protrudes toward the first side blocking angle 201; and the second curved portion 422 protrudes toward the opposite direction of the third flow channel 21, as shown in FIG. Figure 9 As shown, the second curved portion 422 protrudes in the opposite direction of the first side blocking angle 201. The free end 42 is generally deflected toward the second flow channel 32, increasing the first spacing 203 and narrowing the second spacing 204. This increases the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid in the first flow channel 31, facilitating cooling of the first region of the battery pack 10. During this process, the distal end of the second curved portion 422 faces the flow direction of the heat exchange fluid, facilitating flow diversion. Furthermore, the curved surfaces of the first and second curved portions 421, 422 smoothly guide the heat exchange fluid into the third flow channel 21, enhancing the flow diversion effect.

[0095] When the free end 42 is configured in the second shape, the first curved portion 421 protrudes toward the fourth flow channel 22. Figure 9 As shown, the first curved portion 421 protrudes toward the second side blocking angle 202; and the second curved portion 422 protrudes toward the opposite direction of the fourth flow channel 22, as shown in FIG. Figure 9 As shown, the second bend 422 protrudes in the opposite direction of the second side blocking angle 202. The free end 42 is generally deflected toward the first flow channel 31, the first spacing 203 is narrowed, and the second spacing 204 is narrowed and increased. This increases the flow rate of the heat exchange fluid in the second flow channel 32, facilitating heating of the second region of the battery pack 10 and rapidly raising the temperature of the second region of the battery pack 10. During this process, the end of the second bend 422 faces the flow direction of the heat exchange fluid, facilitating flow diversion. Furthermore, the curved surfaces of the first bend 421 and the second bend 422 smoothly guide the heat exchange fluid into the fourth flow channel 22, reducing flow resistance to the heat exchange fluid during the diversion process and improving the diversion effect.

[0096] It should be understood that the configuration of the free end 42 is not limited to the above-mentioned configuration of two curved portions, and other configurations may be employed. For example, the free end 42 may be a simple straight plate, or may be composed of a single curved portion, or may even be composed of three or more curved portions.

[0097] It should be noted that the way in which the diverter member 40 blocks at least part of the cross-section of the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel 22 at the diversion is not limited to the deformation method shown above. In addition, other methods can also be used. For example, a toggle method can also be used, and specifically a paddle structure can be used as the diverter member 40. A swinging method can also be used, and a paddle plus a swinging mechanism can be used to achieve the diverter member 40 blocking at least part of the cross-section of the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel 22 at the diversion. It is even possible to use a sliding method to achieve the diverter member 40 blocking the cross-section of the third flow channel 21 or the fourth flow channel 22 at the diversion, which can be achieved specifically by setting a slide in the diverter area 20.

[0098] It should be explained that the above only shows the method of setting a flow regulating component in one diversion area 20. If there are multiple diversion areas 20, flow regulating components can be set in some or all of the multiple diversion areas 20. The setting method of the flow regulating component can refer to any of the setting methods shown above.

[0099] It should also be noted that the above illustrates only one method of disposing the flow regulating element; other methods are also possible. For example, a diverter valve and a temperature sensor can be installed in the diverter region 20. The temperature sensor is responsible for detecting the temperature of the heat exchange fluid in the diverter region 20, and the valve controls and adjusts the flow rate diverted to the first flow channel 31 and the second flow channel 32 based on the temperature difference of the heat exchange fluid.

[0100] In the various embodiments shown above, by providing a flow regulating member in the diversion area 20, when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in a first, relatively low temperature range, the flow regulating member adjusts the flow rate into the first flow channel 31 to be greater than the flow rate into the second flow channel 32; when the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in a second, relatively high temperature range, the flow regulating member adjusts the flow rate into the first flow channel 31 to be less than the flow rate into the second flow channel 32. Compared to existing liquid cooling systems, the cold plate shown in this application can adaptively adjust the flow rates into the first and second flow channels 31, 32 based on the temperature of the heat exchange fluid input to the cold plate during cooling or heating. This allows the cold plate to adaptively adjust the flow distribution between different branches based on cooling or heating requirements, thereby adapting to the changing heat exchange requirements of different areas of the battery pack during actual use.

[0101] In addition, the present invention also provides a heat exchange system. Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 The heat exchange system includes: a cold plate of any of the above-mentioned battery packs, a first supply device, and a second supply device. The first supply device is configured to supply a first heat exchange fluid to the diversion region 20, wherein the temperature of the first heat exchange fluid is within a first temperature range. The second supply device is configured to supply a second heat exchange fluid to the diversion region 20, wherein the temperature of the second heat exchange fluid is within a second temperature range.

[0102] In other embodiments, an acquisition module and a control module may be provided in the heat exchange system. The acquisition module is used to determine whether the battery pack is being charged in the first or second charging mode, with the charging temperature of the first charging mode being greater than the charging temperature of the second charging mode. The control module is used to control the first supply device and the second supply device. Specifically, when the charging mode determined by the acquisition module is the first charging mode, the control module controls the first supply device to input the first heat exchange fluid into the diversion area 20; when the charging mode determined by the acquisition module is the second charging mode, the control module controls the second supply device to input the second heat exchange fluid into the diversion area 20. The acquisition module may specifically be, for example, but not limited to, an information transceiver having data transceiver functions, and the control module may specifically be, for example, but not limited to, a controller integrating logic operations and storage functions, wherein the logic operations may be implemented by, for example, but not limited to, a single-chip microcomputer, a processor, etc., and the storage functions may be implemented by, for example, but not limited to, a disk storage device, a flash memory, etc.

[0103] It should be noted that in addition to the above-mentioned first and second charging modes, in which the first area of ​​the battery pack 10 needs to be cooled in one of the operating conditions and the second area of ​​the battery pack 10 needs to be heated in another operating condition, other operating conditions may also involve differences in the heating and cooling requirements of the first and second areas of the battery pack 10 under different operating conditions. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cold plate and heat exchange system of the battery pack shown in this application can be well adapted to the differences in heating and cooling requirements between the first and second regions of the battery pack 10 under different operating conditions. When cooling the first region of the battery pack 10 is required, the cold fluid flowing into the first flow channel 31 is adjusted to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of cooling and dissipating heat in the first region of the battery pack 10. When heating the second region of the battery pack 10 is required, the hot fluid flowing into the second flow channel 32 is adjusted to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of heating the second region of the battery pack 10. This effectively reduces the temperature difference in the battery pack 10, resolves the conflicting requirements for heat exchange fluid flow between the cell pole region and the non-cell pole region under different operating conditions of the battery pack 10, and solves the temperature difference problem during charging of the battery pack 10.

[0104] Furthermore, the present application embodiment also provides a battery pack, referring to Figures 1 to 4 The battery pack includes: a battery pack 10 and any one of the above-mentioned heat exchange systems.

[0105] The battery cells in the battery pack 10 described above may be long cells, which may be, for example, but not limited to, long blade cells. The battery pack 10 includes a plurality of long cells, which are arranged in an orderly manner to form the battery pack 10. Of course, in addition to the long blade cells shown above, the battery cells of the battery pack 10 may also be other types of long cells, for example, long cylindrical cells. It should be understood that the battery cells in the battery pack are not limited to long cells. In addition, other types of cells may be used, such as short cells. A short cell refers to a cell whose length is not greater than a predetermined value. For example, the length of the battery cells in the battery pack 10 in the present application may be greater than 400 mm. Specifically, the length of the battery cells in the battery pack 10 in the present application may be any value greater than 400 mm, such as 410 mm, 500 mm, 600 mm, 700 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1000 mm, 1200 mm, etc. That is, as long as the battery pack 10 has different cooling and heating requirements for different areas during actual operation, it can be used as the battery pack 10 in the embodiment of the present application.

[0106] The battery pack 10 can be divided into a first area and a second area. The number of the first areas can be two, and the two first areas can be located at both ends of the length direction of the battery cell respectively; the number of the second area can be one, and the second area can be located between the two first areas. The first area can be the cell pole area of ​​the battery cell. There can be two cell pole areas on the battery pack 10, which are located at both ends of the battery cell in the battery pack 10, specifically at both ends of the length direction of the battery cell, that is, each cell pole area is located at the end of the battery pack 10. The second area at this time can be the non-cell pole area of ​​the battery cell in the battery pack 10. The non-cell pole area is located between the two cell pole areas, that is, the non-cell pole area is located in the middle of the battery pack 10. Due to the long length of the battery cells, when charging at high temperatures, the battery cell pole area of ​​the battery pack 10 heats up faster, while the non-battery cell pole area heats up more slowly, requiring a heat exchange fluid with a lower temperature to be input into the cold plate. The cold plate shown in this application can distribute a larger flow of cold fluid (whose temperature is in the first temperature range with a lower temperature) to the battery cell pole area, thereby improving the cooling effect on the battery cell pole area. When charging the battery pack 10 at low temperatures, the non-battery cell pole area of ​​the battery pack 10 heats up more slowly, which will restrict the charging current. The cold plate shown in this application can distribute a larger flow of hot fluid (whose temperature is in the second temperature range with a higher temperature) to the non-battery cell pole area, thereby improving the heating effect on the non-battery cell pole area. As mentioned above, the first area and the second area are not limited to the battery cell pole area at the end and the non-battery cell pole area in the middle, but can also be other areas.

[0107] Furthermore, the embodiment of the present application also provides a vehicle, referring to Figures 1 to 4The vehicle comprises: a vehicle body, and any of the aforementioned battery packs mounted on the vehicle body. Specifically, the vehicle may be, for example, but not limited to, a passenger car, a truck, or a special engineering vehicle. The vehicle body comprises a frame, wheels, a gearbox, a steering wheel, and other structures, with any of the aforementioned battery packs mounted on the vehicle body. Using the battery pack provided in the embodiments of the present application, a flow regulator is provided in the diversion area 20. When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within a first, lower temperature range, the flow regulator adjusts the flow rate into the first flow channel 31 to be greater than the flow rate into the second flow channel 32. When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within a second, higher temperature range, the flow regulator adjusts the flow rate into the first flow channel 31 to be less than the flow rate into the second flow channel 32. Compared to existing liquid cooling systems, the cold plate of the present application can adaptively adjust the flow rates into the first and second flow channels 31, 32 based on the temperature of the heat exchange fluid input to the cold plate during cooling or heating. This allows the system to adaptively adjust the flow distribution between different branches based on cooling or heating requirements, thereby adapting to the changing heat exchange requirements of different areas during actual use of the battery pack.

[0108] The present invention has been described through the above-described embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above-described embodiments are for illustrative and illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the present invention to the described embodiments. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and that various variations and modifications may be made based on the teachings of the present invention, all of which fall within the scope of the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A cold plate for a battery pack, characterized in that: The cold plate comprises: A diversion area for diverting the incoming heat exchange fluid; The first flow channel and the second flow channel are used for heat exchange between different areas of the battery pack; the first flow channel and the second flow channel are respectively connected to the diversion area; Wherein, the diversion area is provided with a flow regulating member; When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within a first temperature range, the flow regulating member is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel to be greater than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel; When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is in the second temperature range, the flow regulating member is used to regulate the flow rate flowing into the first flow channel to be smaller than the flow rate flowing into the second flow channel; wherein the lowest temperature in the second temperature range is greater than the highest temperature in the first temperature range.

2. The cold plate according to claim 1, wherein The diversion area includes an input flow channel, a third flow channel, and a fourth flow channel, wherein the third flow channel connects the input flow channel with the first flow channel, and the fourth flow channel connects the input flow channel with the second flow channel; The flow regulating member includes a flow dividing member, and the flow dividing member is used to adjust the minimum cross-sections of the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel; When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within the first temperature range, the flow dividing member is used to adjust the minimum cross-section of the third flow channel to be larger than the minimum cross-section of the fourth flow channel; When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within the second temperature range, the diverter member is used to adjust the minimum cross-section of the third flow channel to be smaller than the minimum cross-section of the fourth flow channel.

3. The cold plate according to claim 2, wherein When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within the first temperature range, the diverter member is configured to shield at least a portion of a cross section of the fourth flow channel at a diverting portion of the fourth flow channel; When the temperature of the heat exchange fluid is within the second temperature range, the diverter member is configured to shield at least a portion of a cross section of the third flow channel at a diverting portion of the third flow channel.

4. The cold plate according to claim 3, wherein When the flow dividing member contacts the heat exchange fluid having a temperature in the first temperature range, the flow dividing member is configured to be in a first shape so as to block at least a portion of the cross section of the fourth flow channel at the flow dividing portion of the fourth flow channel; When the diverter member contacts the heat exchange fluid having a temperature in the second temperature range, the diverter member is configured to be in the second shape so as to block at least a portion of the cross section of the third flow channel at the diverter point of the third flow channel.

5. The cold plate according to claim 4, wherein The diverter member includes a fixed end and a free end connected to the fixed end; Wherein, the fixed end is arranged at the branching point between the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel; The free end is configured to be in the first shape or the second shape according to the temperature of the heat exchange fluid it contacts.

6. The cold plate according to claim 5, wherein The free end is made of shape memory material.

7. The cold plate according to claim 5, wherein The flow regulating member further comprises: A temperature sensor is provided in the diversion area, and is used to obtain the temperature of the heat exchange fluid in the diversion area; A displacement actuator is used to configure the free end to the first shape or the second shape according to a control signal, wherein the control signal is generated based on the temperature obtained by the temperature sensor.

8. The cold plate according to claim 5, wherein The cross-sections of the input flow channel, the third flow channel, and the fourth flow channel are all rectangular; The cross section of the input flow channel at the branching point is divided into a first cross section and a second cross section by the tail portion of the free end; wherein the first cross section connects the input flow channel with the third flow channel, and the second cross section connects the input flow channel with the fourth flow channel; When the free end is configured in the first shape, the area of ​​the first cross section is greater than the area of ​​the second cross section; When the free end is configured in the second shape, the area of ​​the first cross section is smaller than the area of ​​the second cross section.

9. The cold plate according to claim 8, wherein The heights of the input flow channel, the third flow channel, and the fourth flow channel at the branching points are greater than the heights of the free ends.

10. The cold plate according to claim 5, wherein The free end includes: a first curved portion and a second curved portion, wherein the first curved portion is connected to the fixed end, the second curved portion is connected to the first curved portion, and a protruding direction of the second curved portion is opposite to a protruding direction of the first curved portion; When the free end is configured in the first shape, the first curved portion protrudes toward the third flow channel; when the free end is configured in the second shape, the first curved portion protrudes toward the fourth flow channel.

11. The cold plate according to claim 5, wherein The flow regulating member further includes two plates, the fixed end is sandwiched between the two plates, and the fixed end is arranged at the branching point between the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel through the two plates.

12. The cold plate according to claim 11, wherein The flow division of the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel is located on two flow channel walls in the flow channel height direction, and a limiting groove is provided on each of the two flow channel walls, and the two limiting grooves are positioned opposite to each other; The fixed end and the two plates are arranged at the branching point between the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel through the two limiting grooves.

13. The cold plate according to claim 1, wherein Also included is a confluence area, the confluence area including: Output flow channel; a fifth flow channel, connecting the output flow channel and the first flow channel; The sixth flow channel connects the output flow channel and the second flow channel.

14. The cold plate according to claim 13, wherein Also includes: a first heat conducting plate and a second heat conducting plate; wherein the diversion area, the first flow channel, the second flow channel and the confluence area are all arranged between the first heat conducting plate and the second heat conducting plate.

15. The cold plate of claim 13, wherein: The first flow channel is used to exchange heat for a first region of the battery pack, where there are two first regions, and the two first regions are respectively located at two ends of a battery cell in the battery pack; the second flow channel is used to exchange heat for a second region of the battery pack, where there is one second region, and the second region is located between the two first regions; There are multiple first flow channels, the multiple first flow channels are interconnected, the multiple first flow channels are arranged in two first flow channel areas, and the two first flow channel areas are connected via a connecting flow channel; one of the two first flow channel areas is connected to the diversion area, and the other is connected to the confluence area; There are multiple second flow channels, and the multiple second flow channels are connected to each other. The multiple second flow channels are arranged in a second flow channel area, and the second flow channel area is located between two first flow channel areas. The second flow channel area is connected to both the diversion area and the confluence area.

16. A heat exchange system, characterized in that: include: The cold plate of the battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 15; a first supply device, configured to input a first heat exchange fluid into the diversion area, wherein the temperature of the first heat exchange fluid is within the first temperature range; The second supply device is used to input a second heat exchange fluid into the diversion area, and the temperature of the second heat exchange fluid is within the second temperature range.

17. The heat exchange system according to claim 16, wherein: Also includes: an acquisition module, configured to acquire whether the battery pack is charged in a first charging mode or a second charging mode; wherein a charging temperature of the first charging mode is greater than a charging temperature of the second charging mode; A control module, when the charging mode obtained by the acquisition module is the first charging mode, the control module controls the first supply device to input the first heat exchange fluid into the diversion area; when the charging mode obtained by the acquisition module is the second charging mode, the control module controls the second supply device to input the second heat exchange fluid into the diversion area.

18. A battery pack, characterized in that: include: Battery pack; The heat exchange system according to any one of claims 16 to 17.

19. The battery pack according to claim 18, wherein: The length of the battery cells in the battery pack is greater than 400 mm.

20. The battery pack according to claim 19, wherein: The battery pack is divided into a first area and a second area; Wherein, the number of the first regions is two, and the two first regions are respectively located at two ends of the battery core; The number of the second region is one, and the second region is located between two of the first regions.

21. A vehicle, characterized in that: include: Vehicle body; The battery pack according to any one of claims 18 to 20 is provided on the vehicle body.

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