Heater unit, heating device, temperature control system, and electric vehicle

Abstract

Provided is a heater unit suitable for use in a heating device for heating a battery for driving an electric vehicle. This heater unit is mounted on a heating device for an electric vehicle, and is provided with: a ceramic heater provided with a heating element; a heat sink including a first surface and a second surface, the first surface facing the ceramic heater, and the second surface having a heat dissipation surface different from the first surface; and a heat-conducting member that is disposed between the first surface of the heat-dissipating body and the ceramic heater, is in contact with both the ceramic heater and the first surface, and has higher elasticity, ductility, and spreadability than the ceramic heater and the heat-dissipating body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heater unit. Background Art

[0002] Recently, the transition from conventional engine vehicles to electric vehicles such as electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and plug-in hybrid vehicles is progressing.

[0003] When an electric vehicle is used in a cold region, the energy efficiency of the electrolyte contained in the driving battery may decrease, which may shorten the driving distance. Therefore, an electric vehicle may be equipped with a heating device for heating the electrolyte contained in the driving battery.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-136036 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The present invention provides a heater unit suitable for use in a heating device for heating a driving battery of an electric vehicle.

[0008] Solutions to Solve Problems

[0009] A heater unit according to one embodiment of the present invention is a heater unit mounted on a heating device for an electric vehicle, the heater unit comprising: a ceramic heater having a heating element; a heat sink including a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being opposite to the ceramic heater, and the second surface having a heat dissipation surface different from the first surface; and a heat conductive component arranged between the first surface of the heat sink and the ceramic heater and in contact with both the ceramic heater and the first surface, wherein at least any one of elasticity, ductility and malleability of the heat conductive component is higher than that of the ceramic heater and the heat sink.

[0010] Effects of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a heater unit that is suitable for use in a heating device that heats a driving battery of an electric vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 It is a schematic perspective view of the heater unit according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 It is a schematic front view of the heating element and the ceramic heater according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater unit of the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater unit of the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heater unit according to a second embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heater unit according to a second embodiment.

[0018] Figure 7 1 is a schematic side view of a heat sink according to a third embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8 1 is a schematic plan view of a heat sink according to a third embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 9 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heating device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0021] Fig.10 It is a schematic perspective view of a heating device according to a fifth embodiment.

[0022] Fig.11 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heating device according to a fifth embodiment.

[0023] Fig.12 It is a schematic perspective view of a heating device according to a sixth embodiment.

[0024] Fig.13 It is a schematic perspective view of a heating device according to a seventh embodiment.

[0025] Description of Reference Numerals

[0026] 1 Heater unit

[0027] 2 Heating element

[0028] 3 Ceramic Heater

[0029] 4 Heat sink

[0030] 5. Heat-conducting components

[0031] 6 Leaf spring

[0032] 31 First end face

[0033] 41 First end face

[0034] 42 Second end face

[0035] 45 Containment Department

[0036] 46 Opening

[0037] 90 heat pump units

[0038] 99 Control Department

[0039] 100 Heating device

[0040] 101 Container

[0041] 102 Heat medium

[0042] 103 Inner cover

[0043] 104 flow path

[0044] 105 Valve

[0045] 106 Pumps

[0046] 110 Cycle period

[0047] 111 Inflow

[0048] 112 Outflow part

[0049] 200 Driving battery

[0050] 1000 Temperature control. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Hereinafter, a method for implementing the heater unit of the present invention (hereinafter, referred to as an "implementation method") will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this implementation method. In addition, the various implementation methods can be appropriately combined within the scope of the processing content not contradictory. In addition, in the following embodiments, the same reference numerals are marked on the same parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0052] In most cases, an electric vehicle is provided with a temperature control system for adjusting the performance of an electric vehicle battery. Recently, as the demand for higher output and smaller size of electric vehicle batteries increases, the temperature control system is also being sought to be higher in performance and smaller in size. In order to meet these requirements, it is desired to provide a heater unit that is high in output, small in size, and highly reliable.

[0053] (First Embodiment)

[0054] Reference Figure 1 to Figure 4 The structure of the heater unit according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 It is a schematic perspective view of the heater unit according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 It is a schematic front view of the heating element and the ceramic heater according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 and Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater unit of the first embodiment. Figure 3 Shown in Figure 4The cross section shown in the III-III line is Figure 4 Shown in Figure 3 The cross section is shown in the IV-IV line. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The heat generating element 2, the terminals 71, 72, and the wiring members 73, 74 are omitted in the figure.

[0055] Figure 1 to Figure 4 The heater unit 1 of the first embodiment shown is a heater unit of a heating device for heating a driving battery of an electric vehicle. The structure of the heating device including the heater unit 1 will be described with reference to FIG. Figure 8 Described later.

[0056] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the heater unit 1 of the first embodiment includes a ceramic heater 3 , a radiator 4 , and a heat conduction member 5 , and the ceramic heater 3 includes a heat generating element 2 .

[0057] The heating element 2 is made of, for example, a metal material. Examples of the metal used for the heating element 2 include tungsten. The heating element 2 generates heat (Joule heat) by passing electricity.

[0058] like Figure 2 As shown, the heating element 2 is buried in the ceramic heater 3. The heating element 2 may have a linear pattern including a plurality of folded portions 21. It should be noted that the pattern drawn by the heating element 2 is not limited to Figure 2 Example shown.

[0059] One end and the other end of the heating element 2 are located on the first end surface 31 (the upper end surface in this case) side of the ceramic heater 3. One end of the heating element 2 is connected to a wiring member 73 via a terminal 71 provided on the first end surface 31, and the other end of the heating element 2 is connected to a wiring member 74 via a terminal 72 provided on the first end surface 31. The heating element 2 is connected to an external power source via the above-mentioned terminals 71, 72 and wiring members 73, 74.

[0060] The ceramic heater 3 has, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape. Alumina (Al2O3) can be cited as a material for the ceramic heater 3. Compared with other ceramics, alumina has high thermal conductivity, heat resistance and corrosion resistance, and is therefore suitable for use as a heating device for an electric vehicle drive battery.

[0061] It should be noted that the ceramic heater 3 may also include components other than alumina as a main component. In the present invention, the "main component" refers to a component that occupies 80% by mass or more of the total 100% by mass of the components constituting the ceramic. The identification of each component contained in the ceramic is performed by an X-ray diffraction device using CuKα line, and the content of each component can be obtained, for example, using an ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma) emission spectrometer or a fluorescent X-ray analyzer.

[0062] The main component of the ceramic material used for the ceramic heater 3 is not necessarily alumina. For example, the ceramic heater 3 may also include other ceramic materials such as silicon nitride as a main component. The ceramic heater with ceramic material as a main component has high hardness and rigidity, and has high tolerance to external vibration, impact, and pressure from other components.

[0063] The heat sink 4 is, for example, a rectangular metal member. Aluminum can be cited as a metal material for the heat sink 4. Aluminum is relatively low in cost, has a high thermal conductivity and is lightweight compared to other metals, and is therefore suitable for use in a heating device for an electric vehicle drive battery.

[0064] It should be noted that the metal material used for the heat sink 4 is not necessarily aluminum. For example, the metal material used for the heat sink 4 may also be SUS (stainless steel), copper, or brass.

[0065] The radiator 4 has a first surface 45A on the side opposite to the ceramic heater 3 and a heat dissipation surface 45B different from the first surface 45A. Specifically, the radiator 4 has a housing portion 45, a part of the inner surface of the housing portion 45 constitutes the first surface 45A, and the outer surface of the radiator 4 constitutes the heat dissipation surface 45B. The housing portion 45 accommodates the ceramic heater 3 and the heat-conducting member 5 described later. Specifically, the housing portion 45 is a bottomed space having an opening 46 on the first end surface 41 (the upper end surface in this case) of the radiator 4. That is, the radiator 4 has a second end surface 42 located on the side opposite to the first end surface 41, and the opposite side of the opening 46 of the housing portion 45 is closed by the second end surface 42 of the radiator 4. The radiator 4 transfers the heat energy received from the ceramic heater 3 in the area including the first surface 45A to the heat medium or the like in contact with the heat dissipation surface 45B via the heat dissipation surface 45B. The ceramic heater 3 itself can be heated to a relatively high temperature in a short time, but by providing the radiator 4, the speed of the temperature rise can be slowed down. For example, if the heat medium directly contacts the surface of the ceramic heater 3 , the heat medium changes state rapidly and the long-term reliability of the heater unit 1 cannot be maintained. In such a case, the reliability reduction caused by the state change can be suppressed by providing the heat sink 4 .

[0066] In the first embodiment, the heat sink 4 is manufactured by cutting a single metal block. In this case, the risk of heat medium and other foreign matter entering the interior of the housing 45 from a portion other than the opening 46 of the heat sink 4 is reduced, thereby reducing the deterioration of the heater unit 1 caused by the mixing of foreign matter.

[0067] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , a portion of the ceramic heater 3 including the first end surface 31 protrudes from the opening 46 of the heat sink 4 to the outside of the receiving portion 45. Furthermore, the heating element 2 is located in the portion of the ceramic heater 3 that protrudes to the outside of the receiving portion 45. Specifically, the heating element 2 has a plurality of folded portions 21 ( Figure 2 At least one of the patterns of the heat generating element 2 protrudes from the opening 46 of the heat radiator 4 to the outside of the housing portion 45. In other words, a part of the pattern of the heat generating element 2 protrudes from the opening 46 of the heat radiator 4 to the outside of the housing portion 45.

[0068] When the heater unit 1 is mounted on the heating device, the portion of the ceramic heater 3 that protrudes from the opening 46 of the radiator 4 to the outside of the housing 45 is located above the liquid level of the heat medium stored in the container of the heating device (see the following description). Figure 8 ), so the possibility of heat medium adhesion is small. Therefore, by exposing this part from the heat sink 4, the part below the liquid surface of the heat medium in the ceramic heater 3 can be protected by the heat sink 4, and the heater unit 1 can be made lighter than in the case where the heat sink 4 is set to a size that covers the entire heating element 2.

[0069] In addition, the pattern of the heating element 2 is provided in the portion of the ceramic heater 3 that protrudes from the opening 46 of the radiator 4 to the outside of the housing portion 45, thereby being able to directly heat the air in the container of the heating device without passing through the radiator 4. Thus, by efficiently heating the air in the container of the heating device, the entire container is efficiently heated, and thus the heating efficiency of the heat medium can be further improved.

[0070] The heat conducting member 5 is arranged between the first surface 45A of the radiator 4 and the ceramic heater 3, and contacts both the ceramic heater 3 and the first surface 45A. The heat conducting member 5 has at least one of higher elasticity, ductility and malleability than the ceramic heater 3 and the radiator 4. In addition, the heat conducting member 5 of the present embodiment includes a member having a higher thermal conductivity than the ceramic heater 3 and a lower thermal conductivity than the radiator 4. In the case of the radiator 4 made of metal as in the present embodiment, the heater and the radiator 4 may be damaged due to local stress caused by the difference in the degree of thermal expansion between the radiator 4 and the heater. Since the heat conducting member 5 of the present embodiment has at least one of high elasticity, ductility and malleability, it can deform itself such as extending and expanding, and the stress caused by the difference in the difference in thermal expansion can be alleviated, thereby improving the reliability of the heater unit 1. In addition, the heat conducting member 5 deforms itself to fill the fine gap between the surface of the ceramic heater 3 with high hardness and the radiator 4, so that the efficiency and speed of heat conduction from the ceramic heater 3 to the radiator 4 can be made high. By providing such a heat transfer member 5 , it is possible to simultaneously solve a plurality of problems associated with the use of a ceramic heater having high hardness and a high temperature rise rate, thereby realizing a high-performance and highly reliable heater unit.

[0071] Based on the above reasons, the heater unit 1 of the first embodiment is suitable for use as a heating device for a battery driving an electric vehicle.

[0072] As a member used for the heat transfer member 5 , graphite can be cited, for example. Graphite functions as a buffer to mitigate the impact received by the ceramic heater 3 from the radiator 4 , and can efficiently transfer the heat generated by the heat generating element 2 to the radiator 4 .

[0073] In addition, aluminum foil may be used as a member for the heat-conducting member. Aluminum has the characteristics of ductility and malleability. When the heater unit is thermally expanded by the heat of the heating element 2, aluminum can efficiently transfer the heat of the heating element 2 to the radiator 4 while playing the role of a buffer. In addition, at this time, the aluminum foil can be stacked. By stacking, the compressive force of the heat-conducting member is dispersed when the heater unit is thermally expanded, thereby improving durability.

[0074] The member used for the heat conducting member 5 may be in the form of a sheet. For example, the member used for the heat conducting member 5 may be a graphite sheet. By using the sheet-shaped heat conducting member 5, it is easy to place the heat conducting member 5 between the ceramic heater 3 and the heat sink 4 without a gap. Specifically, Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in the region where the ceramic heater 3 and the radiator 4 are opposed to each other (i.e., inside the housing 45), the thermally conductive member 5 covers the entire surface of the ceramic heater 3 and the entire surface of the radiator 4 without a gap. "Covering without a gap" means that there is no region where the ceramic heater 3 and the radiator 4 are directly opposed to each other without the thermally conductive member 5 in between.

[0075] By adopting the above structure, compared with a case where a gap exists in a part of the area where the ceramic heater 3 and the radiator 4 face each other, it is less likely that a local temperature difference will occur in the ceramic heater 3, so that the cracking of the ceramic heater 3 caused by the thermal shock accompanying the local temperature difference can be more appropriately suppressed. In other words, the durability of the ceramic heater 3 can be further improved. In addition, compared with a case where a gap exists in a part of the area where the ceramic heater 3 and the radiator 4 face each other, heat can be transferred from the heating element 2 to the radiator 4 more efficiently.

[0076] It should be noted that the sheet-like heat-conducting member 5 is not necessarily a graphite sheet. The sheet-like heat-conducting member 5 may be a silicon sheet or a resin sheet, for example, in addition to a graphite sheet. In addition, the heat-conducting member 5 is not necessarily a sheet-like member, but may be a paste-like member. Examples of the paste-like heat-conducting member 5 include boron nitride, silver, and the like. In addition, the member used for the heat-conducting member 5 may be, for example, an oil compound or an adhesive.

[0077] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the heat conducting member 5 may protrude from the opening 46 of the radiator 4 to the outside of the housing portion 45. With the above configuration, the risk of the heater unit 1 being deteriorated due to the mixing of the heat medium and other foreign matter into the housing portion 45 can be reduced.

[0078] (Second Embodiment)

[0079] Figure 5 and Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater unit 1 of the second embodiment. Figure 5 It is shown in Figure 6 The cross section shown in the VV line is Figure 6 Show Figure 5 The cross section is shown in FIG. VI-VI. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the figure, the heating element 2, the terminals 71, 72, and the wiring members 73, 74 are omitted.

[0080] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown in FIG. 1 , the heater unit 1 of the second embodiment may further include a sealing portion 6. The sealing portion 6 may be made of, for example, glass or resin. The sealing portion 6 is provided on the first end surface 41 of the heat sink 4, across the first end surface 41, the heat conducting member 5 and the ceramic heater 3. Figure 6 As shown, the sealing portion 6 is provided in a circumferential shape so as to surround the ceramic heater 3 in a plan view.

[0081] Thus, in the heater unit 1 of the second embodiment, the seal portion 6 seals the opening 46 of the housing portion 45. With the above configuration, the risk of the heater unit 1 deteriorating due to the mixing of the heat medium and other foreign matter into the housing portion 45 can be further reduced.

[0082] (Third Embodiment)

[0083] In the first embodiment described above, an example in which the radiator 4 is composed of a single metal member is described. In the third embodiment, an example in which the radiator 4 is composed of a plurality of metal members is described. Figure 7 It is a schematic side view of the heat sink 4 according to the third embodiment. Figure 8 It is a schematic plan view of a heat sink 4 according to a third embodiment.

[0084] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the heat sink 4 of the third embodiment includes two metal members, namely, a first member 401 and a second member 402. The heat sink 4 is formed by combining the first member 401 and the second member 402. Specifically, a recess 401a corresponding to a part of the receiving portion 45 is formed in the first member 401, and a recess 402a corresponding to a part of the receiving portion 45 is also formed in the second member 402. The heat sink 4 having the receiving portion 45 is formed by combining the first member 401 and the second member 402.

[0085] The heat sink 4 of the third embodiment has a joint 403 at the contact position between the first member 401 and the second member 402. The joint 403 is a brazed or welded portion. The joint 403 may be, for example, a welding mark. The joint 403 covers the entire circumference of the position on the surface of the heat sink 4 where the first member 401 and the second member 402 are in contact.

[0086] Thus, in the third embodiment, the first member 401 and the second member constituting the heat sink 4 are joined by brazing or welding. By setting the above structure, the risk of the heat medium and other foreign matter entering the receiving portion 45 from the gap between the first member 401 and the second member 402 is reduced, thereby reducing the deterioration of the heater unit 1 caused by the mixing of foreign matter.

[0087] Here, an example in which the radiator 4 includes two metal members (the first member 401 and the second member 402 ) has been described, but the radiator 4 may include three or more metal members.

[0088] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0089] In the fourth embodiment, referring to Fig. 9 A configuration example of a heating device equipped with the above-mentioned heater unit 1 will be described. Fig. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heating device according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. 9 The terminals 71 and 72 and the wiring members 73 and 74 are omitted in the figure.

[0090] Fig. 9 The heating device 100 of the fourth embodiment shown is a heating device for heating a driving battery of an electric vehicle, and is arranged near the driving battery inside the electric vehicle. The heating device 100 uses a heater unit 1 to heat a heat medium 102 (an example of a hot solvent), and uses the heated heat medium 102 to heat the driving battery 200.

[0091] like Fig. 9 As shown, the heating device 100 includes a heater unit 1, a circulation mechanism 110 for circulating a heat medium 102 heated by the heater unit 1, a container 101 as a container body for storing the heat medium 102 in circulation, and an inner cover 103. In addition, the circulation mechanism 110 includes a flow path 104, a valve 105, and a pump 106.

[0092] The container 101 is formed of, for example, a resin material. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the container 101 may be formed of a metal material. In addition, the container 101 may be formed of a material other than a resin material and a metal material.

[0093] The container 101 contains the heater unit 1, the heat medium 102 and the inner cover 103. Fig. 9 Only one heater unit 1 is shown in the figure, but a plurality of heater units 1 may be accommodated in the container 101. In this case, the plurality of heater units 1 may be arranged along Fig. 9 The components are arranged in the depth direction (X-axis direction) of the paper.

[0094] The container 101 has an inflow portion 111 and an outflow portion 112 for the heat medium 102. One end of a flow path 104 described later is connected to the inflow portion 111, and the other end of the flow path 104 is connected to the outflow portion 112. The container 101 and the flow path 104 form a circulation path for the heat medium 102.

[0095] The heat medium 102 is, for example, water. The present invention is not limited thereto, and the heat medium 102 may be a liquid other than water, such as oil. In the heating device 100, at least a portion of the heater unit 1 is accommodated in the container 101, and at least a portion of the heat dissipation surface 45B is in contact with the heat medium 102. In the heating device 100 having the heater unit 1 of the above embodiment, the temperature rise rate of the heat medium 102 is high, and the reliability is also high.

[0096] The heater unit 1 is housed in the container 101 in a state where the first end surface 31 of the ceramic heater 3 faces upward. The water level of the heat medium 102 in the container 101 is set to the same position as the first end surface 41 of the radiator 4 or a position lower than the first end surface 41. That is, the water level of the heat medium 102 is set so as not to be higher than the portion of the ceramic heater 3 exposed from the radiator 4. Thus, it is possible to reduce the situation where the heat medium 102 adheres to the ceramic heater 3 exposed from the radiator 4.

[0097] The inner cover 103 is placed on the first end surface 41 of the radiator 4. The inner cover 103 has an opening for passing the ceramic heater 3, and the ceramic heater 3 protrudes above the inner cover 103 through the opening. In this way, by providing the inner cover 103 in the container 101, the heat medium 102 can be further appropriately reduced from adhering to the ceramic heater 3 exposed from the radiator 4.

[0098] The heating element 2 is located above the liquid surface of the heat medium 102 in the container 101. Specifically, at least one of the plurality of folded portions 21 of the heating element 2 is located above the liquid surface of the heat medium 102 in the container 101. In other words, a portion of the pattern of the heating element 2 is located above the liquid surface of the heat medium 102 in the container 101. By setting the above structure, the heating efficiency can be improved compared to the case where the heating element 2 is not provided above the liquid surface of the heat medium 102.

[0099] The flow path 104 constitutes a part of the circulation path of the heat medium 102. The flow path 104 extends so that at least a part thereof is in contact with or close to the driving battery 200. Fig. 9 In the example shown, a portion of the flow path 104 is spirally wound around the driving battery 200, but the flow path 104 does not necessarily have to be wound around the driving battery 200. A valve 105 and a pump 106 are provided in the flow path 104. The valve 105 opens and closes the flow path 104. The valve 105 can also switch the flow path 94 to the heat pump unit 90 side as described later. The pump 106 generates a flow of the heat medium 102 from the inflow portion 111 to the outflow portion 112 by the action of pressure. It should be noted that the configuration of the heating device 100, the valve 105, and the pump 106 in the circulation path of the heat medium 102 is not limited to Fig. 9 Example shown.

[0100] The heating device 100 is configured as described above, and the heat medium 102 heated by the heater unit 1 flows near the driving battery 200, thereby heating the driving battery 200. In the heating device 100 including the heater unit 1, the heating speed by the ceramic heater 3 is fast, the energy efficiency of heating is high, and the reliability is high. The electric vehicle including the heater unit 1 and the heating device 100 can heat the heated portion in a short time at the time when the battery needs to be heated, such as when starting.

[0101] The present invention also provides a temperature control system 1000, i.e., a temperature control system for an electric vehicle, which comprises: the above-mentioned heater unit 1; a heat medium 102, which is heated at least by the heater unit 1; a heat pump unit 90, which can adjust the temperature of the heat medium; a circulation mechanism 110, which circulates the heat medium 102; and a control unit 99, which controls at least the operation of the circulation mechanism 110 and selects a flow path so that the heat medium 102 flows to at least one of the heater unit 1 and the heat pump unit 90. The temperature control system 1000 of this embodiment comprises a temperature sensor (not shown) capable of detecting the temperature of the battery, and the control unit 99 makes the heat medium 102 flow to the heater unit 1 when the detected temperature based on the temperature sensor is less than a specific temperature, and makes the heat medium 102 flow to the heat pump unit 90 when the detected temperature is higher than the specific temperature.

[0102] The heat pump unit 90 is a common heat pump unit, which has both heating and cooling mechanisms. The heat pump unit 90 has a low energy running cost when the thermal efficiency is high and it is used for a long time, and has advantages such as being able to adjust the temperature even when the battery is overheated due to long-term driving, but the heating speed itself is slow. For example, it takes time to heat the battery to a temperature that can fully perform when the electric vehicle starts by relying solely on the heat pump unit 90, the load on the battery is high, and there is a situation where the performance of the electric vehicle is affected. In the temperature control system 1000 of this embodiment, by selecting the flow path by the control unit 99, for example, the heater unit 1 with the ceramic heater 3 can be used to quickly heat the battery to a temperature that can obtain sufficient performance in a short time when the electric vehicle starts, and then the temperature of the battery is controlled to a suitable temperature by the heat pump unit 90 with high energy efficiency. It should be noted that in order to improve the thermal balance, it is preferred to arrange the heater unit 1 near the heat pump unit 90, but the heat pump unit 90 is equipped with a compressor, and the vibration generated by the compressor will be transmitted to the surroundings of the heat pump unit 90. For example, in a conventional PTC heater, the hardness of the heater device itself is low and it is easily damaged by vibration. If it is arranged near the heat pump unit 90 in a state of good thermal balance, it will cause problems in durability. The heater unit 1 has a ceramic heater 3 with high durability, and uses a heat conductive member 5 with at least one of high elasticity, ductility and malleability to mitigate the impact and pressure caused by vibration. Therefore, in the temperature control system 1000, the heat medium 102 can be heated at a high speed, and the thermal efficiency is high and the durability is sufficient.

[0103] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0104] In the fifth embodiment, an example in which the heat sink 4 of the third embodiment described above adopts a structure with a different shape will be described. Fig.10 It is a schematic perspective view of a heating device according to a fifth embodiment. Fig.11 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heating device according to a fifth embodiment.

[0105] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, the heat sink 4 of the fifth embodiment is composed of at least two members and may have a recessed portion in the receiving portion.

[0106] The heater unit and the heat conducting member 5 are located in the recess of the radiator 4, and the radiator 4 can be pressed by the leaf spring 6. By fixing with the leaf spring 6, the leaf spring 6 can expand and contract in accordance with the thermal expansion, so that the concentration of thermal stress accompanying the thermal expansion of the heater unit can be alleviated.

[0107] Furthermore, by providing the recessed portion, a region where the heater unit and the heat transfer member 5 can thermally expand can be provided, and thus the concentration of thermal stress accompanying the thermal expansion can be alleviated.

[0108] (Sixth Embodiment)

[0109] In the sixth embodiment, an example in which the heat sink 4 of the above-mentioned embodiment has a different shape will be described. Fig.12 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a heating device according to a sixth embodiment. Fig.12 In order to facilitate understanding of the structure, the components are shown separated in the vertical direction, but in fact, the components are in contact with each other in the vertical direction. Fig.12 In the sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the heat sink 4 includes a pipe 4α, and the heat dissipation surface 45B is disposed on at least a portion of the inner surface of the pipe 4α. Fig.12 As shown in the arrow direction, Fig.12 As shown in the figure, the gap between the ceramic heater 3 and the radiator 4 has a heat conductive member 5 having at least one of elasticity, ductility and malleability higher than the ceramic heater 3 and the radiator 4, which has the same effect as other embodiments. Fig.12 As shown, in the heater unit of the sixth embodiment, a plurality of ceramic heaters 3 are arranged along the axial direction of the pipeline 4α. In addition, a structure having ceramic heaters 3, heat sinks 4 and heat-conducting components 5 is stacked in multiple layers. In addition, each ceramic heater 3 is individually provided with an electrode, and the output can be controlled via the electrode. In the sixth embodiment, there are a plurality of pipelines 4α (i.e., a plurality of flow paths of the heat medium), and a plurality of ceramic heaters 3 are arranged along the axial direction of each pipeline 4α (i.e., along the flow direction of the heat medium). In the heater unit of the sixth embodiment, by individually controlling the main forces of the plurality of ceramic heaters 3, the degree of heating of the heat medium can be finely and accurately adjusted. It should be noted that in Fig. 9 In the heating device 100 shown, the heater unit of the sixth embodiment can be used as the heater unit. The present invention also provides a heating device and a temperature control system using the heater unit of the sixth embodiment.

[0110] (Seventh Embodiment)

[0111] In the seventh embodiment, an example in which the above-mentioned radiator 4 has a different shape will be described. Fig.13 FIG. 1 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a heater unit according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 7 In the figure, in order to facilitate understanding of the structure, each component is exploded and shown in a separated state, but in fact, the components are combined in a contacting manner.

[0112] like Fig.13 As shown, the seventh embodiment includes a housing including an opening, a heat sink 4 is located near the opening, the opening is covered by a heat dissipation surface 45B, and at least one surface inside the housing and the heat dissipation surface 45B form a flow path. In the seventh embodiment, the heat medium passing through the flow path is heated via the heat dissipation surface 45B. Fig.13 Although not shown in the figure, the seventh embodiment also has a thermally conductive member 5 having at least one of elasticity, ductility and malleability higher than the ceramic heater 3 and the radiator 4 in the gap between the ceramic heater 3 and the radiator 4, and has the same effects as the other embodiments.

[0113] In the seventh embodiment, the flow path can be used to make the heat medium flow along the heat dissipation surface 45B for a longer time. The heat dissipation surface 45B is provided with a groove-shaped portion not shown in the figure, and the groove-shaped portion can constitute at least a part of the flow path. As a result, the superheating efficiency of the flow path itself can be higher. In addition, fine concave-convex can be set on the inner surface of the flow path, for example, the inner surface of the flow path can also have a cross-section with a wavy shape when viewed from above. By providing such concave-convex, the heat medium flowing in the flow path can be turbulent and the heating efficiency can be further improved. In addition, when there are concave-convex in the flow path formed by the heat dissipation surface 45B, the area in contact with the heat medium is increased, which can further improve the heating efficiency. In addition, fins can also be installed on the heat sink 4 so that there are multiple passages in the flow path. As a result, the heat medium flowing in the flow path is turbulent and the heating efficiency is further improved. In addition, the extension direction of the heat sink can be perpendicular to the heat sink 4, or it can be wavy.

[0114] In addition, in the heater unit of the seventh embodiment, a plurality of ceramic heaters 3 are arranged on one main surface of the heating body, and the heat generation is large. The seventh embodiment also controls the output of the plurality of ceramic heaters 3 individually, thereby being able to finely and accurately adjust the degree of heating of the heat medium flowing along the flow path. Fig.13 As shown, the heater unit 1 may also be configured to be sandwiched by other shells that constitute a part of the flow path. Preferably, the gap between the other shells and the ceramic heater 3 also has a member having the same structure as the heat sink 4 and the heat conducting member 5. Fig. 9 In the heating device 100 shown, it is of course possible to use the heater unit of the seventh embodiment as the heater unit. The present invention also provides a heating device and a temperature control system using the heater unit of the seventh embodiment.

[0115] The present invention also provides an electric vehicle having the heater unit, heating device, and temperature control system of each of the above-mentioned embodiments. When the electric vehicle of the present invention is started, for example, the battery is heated up to a temperature at which it can fully function in a short time, so that it can reach a suitable operating state in a short time without increasing the battery load. That is, it is excellent in both durability and performance. It should be noted that the heated object is not limited to the battery, and the same effect is achieved for the part that is required to be heated in a short time. The electric vehicle of the present invention exhibits excellent effects in terms of performance, durability, and safety, especially in cold areas.

[0116] The embodiments disclosed this time should be understood in all respects as illustrative rather than restrictive. In fact, the above embodiments can be implemented in a variety of ways. In addition, the above embodiments can be omitted, replaced, and changed in various ways without departing from the attached technical solutions and their main purpose.

Claims

1. A heater unit mounted on a heating device for an electric vehicle, wherein: The heater unit comprises: A ceramic heater having a heating element; A heat sink including a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface is opposite to the ceramic heater, and the second surface has a heat dissipation surface different from the first surface; as well as a heat conducting member disposed between the first surface of the heat sink and the ceramic heater and in contact with both the ceramic heater and the first surface; At least any one of elasticity, ductility, and malleability of the thermally conductive member is higher than those of the ceramic heater and the heat sink.

2. The heater unit according to claim 1, wherein The main component of the ceramic heater is aluminum oxide.

3. The heater unit according to claim 1, wherein The main component of the heat sink is aluminum.

4. The heater unit according to claim 1, wherein The heat conducting member is graphite.

5. The heater unit according to claim 1, wherein The heat conducting member is aluminum foil.

6. The heater unit according to claim 5, wherein The thermally conductive members are stacked.

7. The heater unit according to claim 1, wherein The thermally conductive member covers the entire surface of the ceramic heater and the entire surface of the radiator in a region where the ceramic heater and the radiator face each other.

8. The heater unit according to claim 1, wherein The heat sink is composed of at least two components. The heat sink has a housing portion for housing the ceramic heater.

9. The heater unit according to claim 8, wherein: The heat sink has a recessed portion. The ceramic heater and the heat conducting member are located in the recessed portion.

10. The heater unit according to claim 8, wherein The heater unit includes a pressing member that presses the radiator. The pressing member is a leaf spring.

11. The heater unit according to claim 8, wherein The receiving portion has an opening on one end surface of the heat sink. The ceramic heater protrudes from the opening to the outside of the housing portion.

12. The heater unit according to claim 11, wherein The heat conducting member protrudes from the opening to the outside of the accommodation portion.

13. The heater unit according to claim 8, wherein The heat sink comprises at least a first component and a second component. The first member and the second member are joined by brazing or welding.

14. The heater unit according to claim 1, wherein The heat sink has a pipeline. The heat dissipation surface is disposed on at least a portion of the inner surface of the pipeline.

15. The heater unit according to claim 14, wherein A plurality of the ceramic heaters are arranged along the axial direction of the pipeline.

16. The heater unit according to claim 14, wherein The heater unit is formed by stacking a plurality of structures, each of which includes the ceramic heater, the heat sink, and the heat conduction member. In the regions where the ceramic heater and the radiator of the different structures face each other, a second heat conducting member having at least any one of elasticity, ductility and malleability higher than those of the ceramic heater and the radiator is disposed.

17. The heater unit of claim 1, wherein: The heater unit includes a housing having an opening. The heat sink is located near the opening and covers the opening with the heat dissipation surface. At least one surface included in the housing forms a flow path with the heat dissipation surface.

18. The heater unit according to claim 17, wherein At least one surface included in the housing includes a first groove-shaped portion, and the first groove-shaped portion configures at least a portion of the flow path.

19. The heater unit according to claim 17, wherein: The heat dissipation surface includes a second groove-shaped portion, and the second groove-shaped portion constitutes at least a part of the flow path.

20. A heating device, which is a heating device for an electric vehicle, wherein: The heating device comprises: The heater unit of claim 1; and A circulation mechanism circulates the hot solvent heated by the heater unit.

21. A heating device, which is a heating device for an electric vehicle, wherein: The heating device comprises: The heater unit of claim 11; a circulation mechanism that circulates the hot solvent heated by the heater unit; and a container body for storing the circulating hot solvent, At least a portion of the heater unit is accommodated in the container body, and at least a portion of the heat dissipation surface is in contact with the hot solvent.

22. A heating device, which is a heating device for an electric vehicle, wherein: The heating device comprises: The heater unit of claim 14; and a circulation mechanism that circulates the hot solvent heated by the heater unit, The hot solvent flows in the pipes of the heat sink.

23. A heating device, which is a heating device for an electric vehicle, wherein: The heating device comprises: The heater unit of claim 17; and a circulation mechanism that circulates the hot solvent heated by the heater unit, The hot solvent flows in the flow path.

24. A temperature control system, which is a temperature control system for an electric vehicle, wherein: The temperature control system comprises: The heater unit of claim 1; a hot solvent heated by at least the heater unit; a heat pump unit capable of regulating the temperature of the hot solvent; a circulation mechanism that circulates the hot solvent; as well as Control Department, The control unit controls the operation of the circulation mechanism and selects a flow path so that the thermal solvent flows to at least one of the heater unit and the heat pump unit.

25. The temperature control system of claim 24, wherein: The temperature control system includes a temperature sensor capable of detecting the temperature of a temperature-controlled portion in the electric vehicle. The control unit allows the thermal solvent to flow toward the heater unit when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than a specific temperature, and allows the thermal solvent to flow toward the heat pump unit when the detected temperature is higher than the specific temperature.

26. An electric vehicle, wherein: The electric vehicle includes the heater unit according to claim 1 .

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