A thermal management system, energy storage container and control method of the thermal management system

Abstract

This application provides a thermal management system, an energy storage container, and a control method for the thermal management system. The thermal management system is used for heat exchange of a battery and includes a refrigerant circuit. The refrigerant circuit includes a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a throttling device, a second heat exchanger, a third heat exchanger, and a multi-way valve connected in sequence. The third heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange section and a second heat exchange section that exchanges heat with the first heat exchange section. The first heat exchange section is located between the first heat exchanger and the throttling device, and the second heat exchange section is located between the second heat exchanger and the compressor. The multi-way valve is connected to the compressor outlet, the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section, the compressor inlet, and the second heat exchange section, and can switch the operating states of the first and second heat exchangers. In cooling mode, the subcooling degree of the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange section is increased, thereby reducing the dryness of the refrigerant flowing to the second heat exchanger after passing through the throttling device, thus ensuring uniform temperature of the multiple cells within the battery.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of energy storage container technology, specifically to a thermal management system, an energy storage container, and a control method for the thermal management system. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of energy storage systems, batteries in energy storage systems have high temperature requirements and need to be kept within a certain temperature range through a thermal management system. In the process of realizing this invention, the inventors discovered that the prior art has at least the following technical problems: When the battery temperature is high, a refrigerant circuit is needed to directly exchange heat with the battery. The refrigerant flows to the cold plate after being condensed by the condenser and throttled by the throttling device. The refrigerant flowing to the cold plate exchanges heat with the battery to cool it. After only one throttling, the refrigerant is usually in a gas-liquid two-phase state. The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flows to the cold plate, and the cold plate cannot guarantee the uniform temperature of multiple cells in the battery. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, this application provides a thermal management system that effectively improves the temperature uniformity of multiple batteries within the battery in cooling mode. This application also provides an energy storage container including the above-described thermal management system. This application further provides a thermal management system control method applicable to the above-described thermal management system.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution:

[0005] A thermal management system for heat exchange of multiple batteries in an energy storage system includes a refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant circuit comprising:

[0006] The compressor, the first heat exchanger, the throttling device, and the second heat exchanger are connected in sequence.

[0007] The third heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange section and a second heat exchange section that exchanges heat with the first heat exchange section, wherein the first heat exchange section is disposed between the first heat exchanger and the throttling element, and the second heat exchange section is disposed between the second heat exchanger and the compressor;

[0008] A multi-way valve is connected to the outlet of the compressor, the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section, the inlet of the compressor, and the second heat exchange section, respectively, and is capable of switching the operating states of the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0009] Optionally, the multi-way valve includes a first interface connected to the compressor outlet, a second interface connected to the first heat exchanger or the first heat exchange section, a third interface connected to the compressor inlet, and a fourth interface connected to the second heat exchange section. In different modes, different interfaces among the first interface, the second interface, the third interface, and the fourth interface are connected in pairs.

[0010] Optional,

[0011] In the refrigeration mode, the second port of the multi-way valve is connected to the first heat exchanger in the refrigerant circuit.

[0012] In heating mode, the second port of the multi-way valve is connected to the first heat exchange unit in the refrigerant circuit.

[0013] Optionally, the thermal management system may also include:

[0014] The first branch, the second branch, and the third branch are arranged in series between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, and in the direction of refrigerant flow, the second branch is provided with a liquid receiver and a filter in sequence.

[0015] The fourth branch is connected in parallel with the second and third branches;

[0016] The fifth branch is connected in parallel with the first and second branches;

[0017] The first branch, the third branch, the fourth branch, and the fifth branch are all equipped with regulating valves to adjust the flow direction of the refrigerant, so that the refrigerant flows through the liquid receiver and the filter in sequence in either cooling or heating mode.

[0018] Optionally, the first branch is equipped with a first check valve that only allows refrigerant to flow from the first heat exchanger to the second branch; the third branch is equipped with a second check valve that only allows refrigerant to flow from the second branch to the second heat exchanger; the fourth branch is equipped with a third check valve that only allows refrigerant to flow from the second heat exchanger to the second branch; and the fifth branch is equipped with a fourth check valve that only allows refrigerant to flow from the second branch to the first heat exchanger.

[0019] Optionally, the thermal management system further includes a graded throttling component disposed between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger. Multiple second heat exchangers are arranged in parallel, and each second heat exchanger exchanges heat with the same battery. The graded throttling component can throttle the refrigerant flowing out of the first heat exchanger at least twice and make the throttled refrigerant flow evenly to the multiple second heat exchangers.

[0020] Optionally, the second port of the multi-way valve and the second heat exchanger are connected through a sixth branch, and the second heat exchanger and the compressor are connected through a seventh branch, with the first heat exchange section located in the sixth branch and the second heat exchange section located in the seventh branch.

[0021] Optional, the thermal management system includes:

[0022] The eighth branch is equipped with the aforementioned compressor and gas-liquid separator;

[0023] The ninth branch is connected in parallel with the eighth branch, and a first throttling device is provided in the ninth branch;

[0024] The tenth branch is connected in parallel with the first heat exchanger, and a solenoid valve is installed on the tenth branch.

[0025] Optional, the thermal management system includes:

[0026] The eleventh branch connects the fourth port of the multi-way valve to the third heat exchanger, and the eleventh branch is provided with a fifth check valve that only allows refrigerant to flow from the third heat exchanger to the multi-way valve;

[0027] The twelfth branch is connected in parallel with the eleventh branch, and a second throttling device is provided on the twelfth branch.

[0028] An energy storage container, comprising the thermal management system described in any one of the preceding claims.

[0029] A control method for a thermal management system, applicable to any of the thermal management systems described above, includes the following steps:

[0030] In heating mode:

[0031] The first and fourth ports of the multi-way valve are connected, and the second and third ports are connected. The second throttling element and the throttling element are opened, the first throttling element is closed, and the compressor is started. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor flows sequentially through the first port of the multi-way valve, the fourth port of the multi-way valve, the second throttling element, the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the throttling element, the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the second port of the multi-way valve, the third port of the multi-way valve, and the gas-liquid separator before flowing back to the compressor.

[0032] In ultra-low temperature heating mode:

[0033] The first and fourth ports of the multi-way valve are connected, and the second and third ports are also connected. The second throttling element, the throttling element, and the first throttling element are opened, controlling the compressor to start. This causes the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to be divided into two parts. One part of the refrigerant flows sequentially through the first port of the multi-way valve, the fourth port of the multi-way valve, the second throttling element, the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the throttling element, the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the second port of the multi-way valve, the third port of the multi-way valve, and the gas-liquid separator before flowing back to the compressor. The other part of the refrigerant flows through the first throttling element and the gas-liquid separator before flowing back to the compressor.

[0034] In cooling mode:

[0035] The first and second ports of the multi-way valve are connected, and the third and fourth ports are connected. The second and first throttling elements are closed, the throttling element is opened, and the compressor is started, so that the refrigerant discharged by the compressor flows sequentially through the first port of the multi-way valve, the second port of the multi-way valve, the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the throttling element, the second heat exchanger, the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the fourth port of the multi-way valve, the third port of the multi-way valve, and the gas-liquid separator before flowing back to the compressor.

[0036] The thermal management system provided in this application includes a refrigerant circuit comprising a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a throttling device, and a second heat exchanger connected in sequence. The first heat exchanger is used for heat exchange with the environment, and the second heat exchanger is used for heat exchange with the battery. The refrigerant flows sequentially from the compressor to the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section, the throttling device, the second heat exchanger, and the second heat exchange section in the refrigerant circuit to cool the battery. The refrigerant also flows sequentially from the compressor to the second heat exchange section, the second heat exchanger, the throttling device, the first heat exchanger, and the first heat exchange section in the refrigerant circuit to heat the battery. With this configuration, in cooling mode, the refrigerant flowing from the second heat exchanger to the second heat exchange section exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger to the first heat exchange section, thereby increasing the subcooling of the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange section. This results in a lower dryness of the refrigerant flowing to the second heat exchanger after passing through the throttling device, meaning that there is more liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant flowing to the second heat exchanger, thus ensuring uniform temperature distribution among the multiple cells in the battery. Attached Figure Description

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

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the thermal management system provided in this embodiment.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the thermal management system in cooling mode.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the thermal management system in heating mode.

[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the thermal management system in heating mode at extremely low temperatures.

[0042] Figures 1-4 middle:

[0043] 1-Compressor, 2-First heat exchanger, 3-Third heat exchanger, 4-Second heat exchanger, 5-Gas-liquid separator, 6-Multi-way valve, 7-First branch, 8-Second branch, 9-Third branch, 10-Fourth branch, 11-Fifth branch, 12-Liquid receiver, 13-Filter, 14-First check valve, 15-Second check valve, 16-Third check valve, 17-Fourth check valve, 18-Stage throttling assembly, 19-Sixth branch, 20-Seventh branch 21-Eighth branch, 22-Ninth branch, 23-Tenth branch, 24-First throttling element, 25-Solenoid valve, 26-Eleventh branch, 27-Twelfth branch, 28-Fifth check valve, 29-Second throttling element, 30-Thirteenth branch, 31-Fourteenth branch, 32-Fifteenth branch, 33-Sixteenth branch, 34-Seventeenth branch, 35-Sixth check valve, 36-Seventh check valve, 37-Eighth check valve, 38-Ninth check valve. Detailed Implementation

[0044] This application provides a thermal management system. This application also provides an energy storage container including the above-described thermal management system. This application further provides a control method for the thermal management system applicable to the above-described thermal management system.

[0045] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0046] like Figures 1-4 As shown in the figure, this application embodiment provides a thermal management system, which is a component of an energy storage container and is used to exchange heat between multiple batteries in the energy storage system. In other words, the thermal management system is used to cool or heat the batteries to maintain them at a suitable operating temperature. The thermal management system includes a refrigerant circuit, which sequentially connects to a compressor 1, a first heat exchanger 2, a throttling device, and a second heat exchanger 4, as well as a third heat exchanger 3 and a multi-way valve 6. The third heat exchanger 3 includes a first heat exchange section and a second heat exchange section that exchanges heat with the first heat exchange section. The first heat exchange section is located between the first heat exchanger 2 and the throttling device, and the second heat exchange section is located between the second heat exchanger 4 and the compressor 1. The multi-way valve 6 is connected to the outlet of the compressor 1, the first heat exchanger 2, the first heat exchange section, the inlet of the compressor 1, and the second heat exchange section, and is capable of switching the operating states of the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4.

[0047] This embodiment provides an optional implementation method. When the battery temperature is high, it is necessary to cool the battery through a refrigerant circuit. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2The specific working mode is as follows: First, compressor 1 compresses the refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. This high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flows through multi-way valve 6 to the first heat exchanger 2, which acts as a condenser. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant exchanges heat with the external environment in the first heat exchanger 2, transforming into a medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. Then, the medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger 2 flows through the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3 and then to the throttling device. The throttling device throttles the medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant, which flows to the second heat exchanger 4. The low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchanger 4 exchanges heat with the battery, transferring the cooling energy from the refrigerant to the battery to achieve cooling. After that... The refrigerant flowing out of the second heat exchanger 4 is wet vapor with a dryness fraction of less than 1. The refrigerant flowing out of the second heat exchanger 4 flows to the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3. In the third heat exchanger 3, the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange section and the refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchange section will exchange heat to increase the subcooling of the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange section. The wet vapor flowing through the second heat exchange section will be completely evaporated and superheated, so that only two-phase refrigerant is in the second heat exchanger during refrigeration. The latent heat of vaporization is used to keep the battery at a constant temperature. The refrigerant flowing out of the second heat exchange section flows through the multi-way valve 6 and then flows to the gas-liquid separator 5. The gas-liquid separator 5 separates the gas and liquid in the refrigerant. The gaseous refrigerant flows back to the compressor 1, thus completing a refrigeration cycle for the battery.

[0048] This embodiment also provides another optional implementation method: when the battery temperature is low, it is necessary to heat the battery through a refrigerant circuit. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 3 The specific operating mode is as follows: First, compressor 1 compresses the refrigerant into high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. This high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flows through multi-way valve 6 to the second heat exchange section, and then to the second heat exchanger 4. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchanger 4 exchanges heat with the battery, transferring heat to the battery to heat it. Next, the high-pressure refrigerant flowing out of the second heat exchanger 4 with a lower temperature flows to a throttling device, which throttles the high-pressure refrigerant into low-pressure refrigerant. Then, the low-pressure refrigerant flows to the first heat exchange section, and the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange section... The refrigerant exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchange section to reduce the superheat of the refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchange section. Then, the refrigerant flows to the first heat exchanger 2, which is an evaporator. The low-pressure refrigerant absorbs heat from the environment through the first heat exchanger 2, increasing the dryness of the refrigerant. Finally, the refrigerant with increased temperature flows through the multi-way valve 6 and then to the gas-liquid separator 5. The gas-liquid separator 5 separates the gas and liquid in the refrigerant, and the gaseous refrigerant flows back to the compressor 1, thus completing a heating cycle for the battery.

[0049] It should be noted that the throttling device is the throttling device installed in the second branch 8 of the graded throttling assembly 18 mentioned below.

[0050] It should also be noted that this battery can be used in all fields of electricity, including photovoltaic power generation, tidal power generation, thermal power generation, nuclear power generation, geothermal power generation, hydropower generation, biomass power generation, and wind power generation.

[0051] The aforementioned thermal management system, by setting up a refrigerant circuit, includes a compressor 1, a first heat exchanger 2, a throttling device, and a second heat exchanger 4 connected in sequence. The first heat exchanger 2 is used for heat exchange with the environment, and the second heat exchanger 4 is used for heat exchange with the battery. In the refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant flows sequentially from the compressor 1 to the first heat exchanger 2, the first heat exchange section, the throttling device, the second heat exchanger 4, and the second heat exchange section to cool the battery; conversely, the refrigerant flows sequentially from the compressor 1 to the second heat exchange section, the second heat exchanger 4, the throttling device, the first heat exchanger 2, and the first heat exchange section to heat the battery. This configuration allows for direct heat exchange with the battery via the refrigerant circuit, using only the refrigerant as the heat exchange medium, reducing the need for other heat exchange media such as water. This improves the heat exchange efficiency for the battery; furthermore, the thermal management system has a simple structure.

[0052] Furthermore, in the cooling mode, the refrigerant circuit exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing from the second heat exchanger 4 to the second heat exchange section and the refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger 2 to the first heat exchange section, thereby increasing the subcooling of the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange section. This results in a lower dryness of the refrigerant flowing to the second heat exchanger 4 after passing through the throttling device, meaning that there is more liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant flowing to the second heat exchanger 4, thus ensuring uniform temperature distribution among the multiple cells in the battery.

[0053] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve 6 includes a first interface connected to the outlet of the compressor 1. Figure 1 (as shown in port a), and the second port connected to the first heat exchanger 2 or the first heat exchange section. Figure 1 (as shown in port b), the third interface connected to the inlet of compressor 1 ( Figure 1 The c-port shown), and the fourth port connected to the second heat exchange section ( Figure 1 As shown in port d), and in different modes, different interfaces among the first, second, third and fourth interfaces are connected in pairs.

[0054] In this embodiment, an optional implementation method is provided. When the battery temperature is high, the battery needs to be cooled through a refrigerant circuit. The first and second ports of the multi-way valve 6 are connected, the third and fourth ports of the multi-way valve 6 are connected, and the second port of the multi-way valve 6 is connected to the first heat exchanger 2.

[0055] In this embodiment, another optional implementation method is also provided: when the battery temperature is low, the battery needs to be heated through the refrigerant circuit. The first and fourth ports of the multi-way valve 6 are connected, the second and third ports of the multi-way valve 6 are connected, and the second port of the multi-way valve 6 is connected to the first heat exchange unit.

[0056] It should be noted that the connection between different interfaces in the first, second, third, and fourth interfaces means that when the first and second interfaces are connected, the third and fourth interfaces are connected; and when the first and fourth interfaces are connected, the second and third interfaces are connected.

[0057] Here, a multi-way valve allows for convenient switching between cooling and heating modes, ensuring the battery remains at a suitable temperature under varying ambient temperatures. Furthermore, the third heat exchanger 3 increases the subcooling of the refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchanger in cooling mode, resulting in a lower dryness of the refrigerant flowing to the second heat exchanger 4 after passing through the throttling device. This means a higher concentration of liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant flowing to the second heat exchanger 4, ensuring uniform temperature distribution across the battery cells. Additionally, the second heat exchanger of the third heat exchanger 3 reduces the superheat of the gaseous refrigerant, improving temperature uniformity during battery heating. Simultaneously, the first heat exchanger continues to evaporate and superheat the wet vapor exiting the first heat exchanger 2, achieving a two-phase evaporation process within the first heat exchanger and increasing the overall system heating capacity.

[0058] In some embodiments, in cooling mode, the second port of the multi-way valve 6 is connected to the first heat exchanger 2; in heating mode, the second port of the multi-way valve 6 is connected to the first heat exchange section. For example, the first heat exchanger 2 and the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3 can be respectively installed on the two branches connected to the second port of the multi-way valve 6, and a check valve or on / off valve can be installed between the first heat exchanger 2 and the second port, and between the first heat exchange section and the second port, thus enabling the connection between the second port of the multi-way valve 6 and the first heat exchanger 2 or the first heat exchange section. This configuration allows for more convenient switching between cooling and heating modes in the refrigerant circuit, and enables the refrigerant circuit to recover and utilize the cold or heat energy carried by the refrigerant through the third heat exchanger.

[0059] In some embodiments, the thermal management system includes a first branch 7, a second branch 8, a third branch 9, a fourth branch 10, and a fifth branch 11. The first branch 7, the second branch 8, and the third branch 9 are connected in series between the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4. In the direction of refrigerant flow, a liquid receiver 12 and a filter 13 are sequentially arranged on the second branch 8. The fourth branch 10 is connected in parallel with the second branch 8 and the third branch 9. The fifth branch 11 is connected in parallel with the first branch 7 and the second branch 8. Each of the first branch 7, the third branch 9, the fourth branch 10, and the fifth branch 11 is provided with a regulating valve to adjust the direction of refrigerant flow, so that the refrigerant flows sequentially through the liquid receiver 12 and the filter 13 in either the cooling mode or the heating mode.

[0060] Specifically, when the refrigerant circuit is in cooling mode, the refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger passes through the regulating valve in the first branch 7, then through the liquid receiver 12 and filter 13 in the second branch 8, then through the regulating valve in the third branch 9, and finally flows to the second heat exchanger 4 to transfer cooling energy to the battery. This arrangement ensures that when the refrigerant circuit is in cooling mode, the refrigerant flows sequentially through the liquid receiver 12 and filter 13. When the refrigerant circuit is in heating mode, the refrigerant flowing from the second heat exchanger 4 passes through the regulating valve in the fourth branch 10, then through the liquid receiver 12 and filter 13 in the second branch 8, then through the regulating valve in the fifth branch 11, and finally flows to the first heat exchanger 2 to exchange heat with the environment. This arrangement ensures that when the refrigerant circuit is in heating mode, the refrigerant flows sequentially through the liquid receiver 12 and filter 13. This allows the liquid receiver 12 to better perform its function of storing and replenishing refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit, and also allows the filter 13 to better filter the refrigerant, thus improving the filtration effect of the filter 13.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first branch 7 is equipped with a first one-way valve 14 that only allows refrigerant to flow from the first heat exchanger 2 to the second branch 8; the third branch 9 is equipped with a second one-way valve 15 that only allows refrigerant to flow from the second branch 8 to the second heat exchanger 4; the fourth branch 10 is equipped with a third one-way valve 16 that only allows refrigerant to flow from the second heat exchanger 4 to the second branch 8; and the fifth branch 11 is equipped with a fourth one-way valve 17 that only allows refrigerant to flow from the second branch 8 to the first heat exchanger 2. This configuration ensures that in cooling mode, the refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchange section sequentially flows through the first branch 7, the second branch 8, and the third branch 9, and sequentially flows through the receiver 12 and the filter 13; and that in heating mode, the refrigerant flowing from the second heat exchanger 4 sequentially flows through the fourth branch 10, the second branch 8, and the fifth branch 11, and sequentially flows through the receiver 12 and the filter 13. Compared to the configuration of on / off valves and other regulating valves in the first branch 7, the third branch 9, the fourth branch 10, and the fifth branch 11, this configuration reduces the need to adjust the opening and closing of the on / off valves, making the control logic in the refrigerant circuit simpler.

[0062] In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a staged throttling assembly 18 disposed between the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4. Multiple second heat exchangers 4 are connected in parallel, and each second heat exchanger 4 exchanges heat with the same battery. The staged throttling assembly 18 can throttle the refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger 2 at least twice, and ensure that the throttled refrigerant flows evenly to the multiple second heat exchangers 4. Specifically, when the refrigerant circuit is in cooling mode, please refer to... Figure 2 The specific operating mode is as follows: First, the compressor 1 compresses the refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flows to the first heat exchanger 2, which acts as a condenser. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant exchanges heat with the external environment in the first heat exchanger 2, transforming into a medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. Then, the medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flowing out of the first heat exchanger 2 flows to the staged throttling component 18. The staged throttling component 18 throttles the medium-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant into a low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant, which flows to the second heat exchanger 4. The low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchanger 4 exchanges heat with the battery, transferring the cooling energy from the refrigerant to the battery to achieve cooling. After that, the refrigerant flows to the gas-liquid separator 5 after passing through the second heat exchanger 4. The gas-liquid separator 5 separates the gas and liquid in the refrigerant, and the gaseous refrigerant flows back to the compressor 1, thus completing a cooling cycle for the battery. In this process, the low-pressure refrigerant absorbs heat from the environment through the first heat exchanger 2, increasing the dryness of the refrigerant, and eventually completely evaporates and superheats in the first heat exchange section.

[0063] Here, multiple second heat exchangers 4 are arranged in parallel, and each second heat exchanger 4 exchanges heat with the same battery. That is to say, each second heat exchanger 4 needs to exchange the same amount of heat as the battery. Since when using the thermal management system to cool or heat the battery, it is necessary to ensure that the heat of each battery is within a suitable temperature range, and each battery is working at the same time, the temperature difference between each battery is not large. Thus, as long as the flow rate and temperature of the refrigerant flowing through each second heat exchanger 4 are the same, uniform cooling or heating of multiple batteries can be achieved, so that the temperature of each battery is within a suitable range.

[0064] In some embodiments, the second port of the multi-way valve 6 is connected to the second heat exchanger 4 via a sixth branch 19, and the second heat exchanger 4 and the compressor 1 are connected via a seventh branch 20. The first heat exchange section is located in the sixth branch 19, and the second heat exchange section is located in the seventh branch 20. Specifically, by setting the sixth branch 19 and the seventh branch 20 in parallel as described above, the first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3 are arranged to facilitate the cooling of the refrigerant flowing out from the first heat exchanger 2 in cooling mode and to reduce the superheat in the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 in heating mode. This improves the cooling effect on the battery in cooling mode and enhances the temperature uniformity of the battery heating in heating mode.

[0065] Because when the thermal management system operates in extremely low temperature environments, such as around -30°C, the refrigerant cannot obtain heat from the external environment through the first heat exchanger 2. Based on the above, in some embodiments, the thermal management system includes an eighth branch 21, a ninth branch 22, and a tenth branch 23. The eighth branch 21 is equipped with a compressor 1 and a gas-liquid separator 5; the ninth branch 22 is connected in parallel with the eighth branch 21, and a first throttling element 24 is installed in the ninth branch 22; the tenth branch 23 is connected in parallel with the first heat exchanger 2, and a solenoid valve 25 is installed on the tenth branch 23. For details, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4When the thermal management system operates in extremely low temperatures, compressor 1 starts and closes solenoid valve 25 located on the tenth branch 23. Compressor 1 compresses the refrigerant into high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. The refrigerant flowing out of compressor 1 is divided into two parts. One part of the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flows through multi-way valve 6 to the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3. After passing through the second heat exchange section, it flows to multiple parallel-connected second heat exchangers 4. The multiple second heat exchangers 4 transfer heat to their respective batteries to heat the batteries. Then, the refrigerant flows to the first... The first heat exchange section exchanges heat with the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchange section, reducing the superheat of the refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchange section. The refrigerant flowing through the first heat exchange section flows to the multi-way valve 6 after passing through the tenth branch 23. Another part of the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant flows to the ninth branch 22. The first throttling element 24 located in the ninth branch 22 throttles the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant, and the throttled refrigerant merges with a part of the refrigerant flowing out from the multi-way valve 6 and flows back to the compressor 1, preventing the compressor 1 from being damaged by liquid inflow, thereby improving the service life of the compressor 1.

[0066] The above settings enable the thermal management system to operate in extremely low temperature environments, expanding its applicability and ensuring that the battery remains at a suitable operating temperature even in low-end environments.

[0067] In some embodiments, the thermal management system includes an eleventh branch 26 and a twelfth branch 27. The eleventh branch 26 connects the fourth port of the multi-way valve 6 and the third heat exchanger 3, and is provided with a fifth check valve 28 that only allows refrigerant to flow from the third heat exchanger 3 to the multi-way valve 6. The twelfth branch 27 is connected in parallel with the eleventh branch 26, and is provided with a second throttling element 29. For details, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 3 In heating mode, the second throttling element 29 is opened, and the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 1 flows through the multi-way valve 6 to the second throttling element 29 in the twelfth branch 27, and then to the second heat exchange section. This reduces the superheat of the refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchange section. In particular, by adjusting the opening of the second throttling element 29, the superheat of the refrigerant after heat exchange in the second heat exchange section can be controlled, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the internal heat exchange and the battery, and achieving uniform temperature when heating multiple batteries. Furthermore, in cooling mode, the refrigerant flowing from the second heat exchange section returns to the gas-liquid separator 5 through the eleventh branch 26 and the multi-way valve 6. Thus, when the refrigerant circuit needs to be in cooling mode, the second throttling element 29 is closed; when the refrigerant circuit is in heating mode, the second throttling element 29 is opened. This facilitates switching between cooling and heating modes of the refrigerant circuit, simplifying the control logic in the thermal management system.

[0068] In some embodiments, the thermal management system includes a thirteenth branch 30, a fourteenth branch 31, a fifteenth branch 32, a sixteenth branch 33, and a seventeenth branch 34. The thirteenth branch 30, the fourteenth branch 31, and the fifteenth branch 32 are connected in series between the second port of the multi-way valve 6 and the first branch 7. In the direction of refrigerant flow, the fourteenth branch 31 is provided with a first heat exchanger 2 and a first heat exchange section in sequence. The sixteenth branch 33 is connected in parallel with the fourteenth branch 31 and the fifteenth branch 32. The seventeenth branch 34 is connected in parallel with the thirteenth branch 30 and the fourteenth branch 31. The thirteenth branch 30, the fifteenth branch 32, the sixteenth branch 33, and the seventeenth branch 34 are all provided with regulating valves to adjust the direction of refrigerant flow, so that the refrigerant flows through the first heat exchanger 2 and the first heat exchange section in sequence in either the cooling mode or the heating mode. In this way, when the refrigerant circuit is in cooling mode, the refrigerant flowing from the multi-way valve 6 sequentially flows through the regulating valve of the thirteenth branch 30, then through the first heat exchanger 2 and the first heat exchanger 3 of the fourteenth branch 31, then through the regulating valve of the fifteenth branch 32, and finally to the first branch 7. Conversely, when the refrigerant circuit is in heating mode, the refrigerant flowing from the first branch 7 sequentially flows through the regulating valve of the seventeenth branch 34, then through the first heat exchanger 2 and the first heat exchanger 3 of the fourteenth branch 31, then through the regulating valve of the sixteenth branch 33, and finally to the second port of the multi-way valve 6. This configuration allows for convenient switching between cooling and heating modes of the refrigerant circuit, ensuring that the refrigerant flows sequentially through the first heat exchanger 2 and the first heat exchanger section regardless of whether the refrigerant circuit is in cooling or heating mode.

[0069] Based on the above embodiments, furthermore, the thirteenth branch 30 is equipped with a sixth check valve 35 that only allows refrigerant to flow from the multi-way valve 6 to the fourteenth branch 31; the fifteenth branch 32 is equipped with a seventh check valve 36 that only allows refrigerant to flow from the fourteenth branch 31 to the first branch 7; the sixteenth branch 33 is equipped with an eighth check valve 37 that only allows refrigerant to flow from the fifth branch 11 to the fourteenth branch 31; and the seventeenth branch 34 is equipped with a ninth check valve 38 that only allows refrigerant to flow from the fourteenth branch 31 to the multi-way valve 6. This configuration, compared to installing on / off valves or other regulating valves in the aforementioned branches, facilitates control of the refrigerant flow direction and simplifies the control logic.

[0070] An energy storage container includes a thermal management system as described above. Since the energy storage container includes the aforementioned thermal management system, the beneficial effects of the thermal management system on the energy storage container are as described above and will not be repeated here.

[0071] A control method for a thermal management system, applicable to any of the above-mentioned thermal management systems, includes the following steps:

[0072] In heating mode:

[0073] The first port (a) and the fourth port (d) of the multi-way valve 6 are connected, and the second port (b) and the third port (c) are connected. The second throttling element 29 and the throttling element are opened, the first throttling element 24 is closed, and the compressor 1 is started. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 flows sequentially through the first port of the multi-way valve 6, the fourth port of the multi-way valve 6, the second throttling element 29, the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3, the second heat exchanger 4, the throttling element, the first heat exchanger 2, the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3, the second port of the multi-way valve 6, the third port of the multi-way valve 6, and the gas-liquid separator 5 before flowing back to the compressor 1.

[0074] In ultra-low temperature heating mode:

[0075] The first and fourth ports of the multi-way valve 6 are connected, as are the second and third ports. This controls the opening of the second throttling element 29, the throttling element, and the first throttling element 24, thereby starting the compressor 1. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 is divided into two parts. One part flows sequentially through the first port of the multi-way valve 6, the fourth port of the multi-way valve 6, the second throttling element 29, the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3, the second heat exchanger 4, the throttling element, the first heat exchanger 2, the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3, the second port of the multi-way valve 6, the third port of the multi-way valve 6, and the gas-liquid separator 5 before returning to the compressor 1. The other part flows through the first throttling element 24 and the gas-liquid separator 5 before returning to the compressor 1.

[0076] In cooling mode:

[0077] The first and second ports of the multi-way valve 6 are connected, and the third and fourth ports are connected. The second throttling element 29 and the first throttling element 24 are closed. The throttling element is opened. The compressor 1 is started, so that the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 1 flows sequentially through the first port of the multi-way valve 6, the second port of the multi-way valve 6, the first heat exchanger 2, the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3, the throttling element, the second heat exchanger 4, the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger 3, the fourth port of the multi-way valve 6, the third port of the multi-way valve 6, and the gas-liquid separator 5 before flowing back to the compressor 1.

[0078] This configuration allows for convenient switching between different modes of the thermal management system, enhancing its automation level and enabling it to exchange heat with the battery under different temperature conditions, thus ensuring the battery operates at a suitable temperature.

[0079] The basic principles of this application have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, it should be noted that the advantages, benefits, and effects mentioned in this application are merely examples and not limitations, and should not be considered as essential features of each embodiment of this application. Furthermore, the specific details disclosed above are for illustrative and facilitative purposes only, and are not limitations. These details do not limit the application to the necessity of employing the aforementioned specific details for implementation.

[0080] The block diagrams of devices, apparatuses, devices, and systems involved in this application are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that they must be connected, arranged, or configured in the manner shown in the block diagrams. As those skilled in the art will recognize, these devices, apparatuses, devices, and systems can be connected, arranged, and configured in any manner. Words such as “comprising,” “including,” “having,” etc., are open-ended terms meaning “including but not limited to,” and are used interchangeably with them. The terms “or” and “and” as used herein refer to the terms “and / or,” and are used interchangeably with them unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term “such as” as used herein refers to the phrase “such as but not limited to,” and is used interchangeably with it.

[0081] It should also be noted that in the apparatus, equipment, and methods of this application, the components or steps can be disassembled and / or recombined. These disassemblies and / or recombinations should be considered as equivalent solutions of this application.

[0082] The above description of the disclosed aspects is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use this application. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects without departing from the scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but rather to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0083] It should be understood that the qualifiers “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” “fifth,” and “sixth” used in the description of the embodiments of this application are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0084] The above description has been given for purposes of illustration and description. Furthermore, this description is not intended to limit the embodiments of this application to the forms disclosed herein. Although numerous exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize certain variations, modifications, alterations, additions, and sub-combinations thereof.

Claims

1. A thermal management system, characterized in that, Used for heat exchange of multiple batteries in an energy storage system, including a refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant circuit comprising: The compressor, the first heat exchanger, the throttling device, and the second heat exchanger are connected in sequence. The third heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange section and a second heat exchange section that exchanges heat with the first heat exchange section, wherein the first heat exchange section is disposed between the first heat exchanger and the throttling element, and the second heat exchange section is disposed between the second heat exchanger and the compressor; A multi-way valve is connected to the outlet of the compressor, the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section, the inlet of the compressor, and the second heat exchange section, respectively, and is capable of switching the operating states of the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger. The first branch, the second branch, and the third branch are arranged in series between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, and in the direction of refrigerant flow, the second branch is provided with a liquid receiver and a filter in sequence. The fourth branch is connected in parallel with the second and third branches; The fifth branch is connected in parallel with the first and second branches; The eleventh branch connects the fourth port of the multi-way valve to the third heat exchanger, and the eleventh branch is provided with a fifth check valve that only allows refrigerant to flow from the third heat exchanger to the multi-way valve; The twelfth branch is connected in parallel with the eleventh branch, and a second throttling device is provided on the twelfth branch; The first branch, the third branch, the fourth branch, and the fifth branch are all equipped with regulating valves to adjust the flow direction of the refrigerant, so that the refrigerant flows sequentially through the receiver and the filter in either cooling or heating mode. The first branch is equipped with a first one-way valve that only allows the refrigerant to flow from the first heat exchanger to the second branch; the third branch is equipped with a second one-way valve that only allows the refrigerant to flow from the second branch to the second heat exchanger; the fourth branch is equipped with a third one-way valve that only allows the refrigerant to flow from the second heat exchanger to the second branch; and the fifth branch is equipped with a fourth one-way valve that only allows the refrigerant to flow from the second branch to the first heat exchanger.

2. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-way valve includes a first interface connected to the compressor outlet, a second interface connected to the first heat exchanger or the first heat exchange section, a third interface connected to the compressor inlet, and a fourth interface connected to the second heat exchange section. In different modes, different interfaces among the first interface, the second interface, the third interface, and the fourth interface are connected in pairs.

3. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the refrigeration mode, the second port of the multi-way valve is connected to the first heat exchanger in the refrigerant circuit. In heating mode, the second port of the multi-way valve is connected to the first heat exchange unit in the refrigerant circuit.

4. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a graded throttling assembly disposed between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger. Multiple second heat exchangers are arranged in parallel, and each second heat exchanger exchanges heat with the same battery. The graded throttling assembly can throttle the refrigerant flowing out of the first heat exchanger at least twice and make the throttled refrigerant flow evenly to multiple second heat exchangers.

5. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second port of the multi-way valve and the second heat exchanger are connected through a sixth branch, and the second heat exchanger and the compressor are connected through a seventh branch. The first heat exchange section is located in the sixth branch, and the second heat exchange section is located in the seventh branch.

6. The thermal management system according to claim 5, characterized in that, include: The eighth branch is equipped with the aforementioned compressor and gas-liquid separator; The ninth branch is connected in parallel with the eighth branch, and a first throttling device is provided in the ninth branch; The tenth branch is connected in parallel with the first heat exchanger, and a solenoid valve is installed on the tenth branch.

7. An energy storage container, characterized in that, The thermal management system includes any one of claims 1-6.

8. A control method for a thermal management system, characterized in that, A thermal management system applicable to any one of claims 1-6, further comprising an eighth branch, a ninth branch, and a tenth branch; the eighth branch being equipped with the compressor and a gas-liquid separator; the ninth branch being connected in parallel with the eighth branch and equipped with a first throttling element; the tenth branch being connected in parallel with the first heat exchanger and equipped with a solenoid valve; the multi-way valve comprising a first interface connected to the compressor outlet, a second interface connected to the first heat exchanger or the first heat exchange section, a third interface connected to the compressor inlet, and a fourth interface connected to the second heat exchange section, wherein in different modes, different interfaces among the first interface, the second interface, the third interface, and the fourth interface are connected in pairs; the control method of the thermal management system comprises the following steps: In heating mode: The first and fourth ports of the multi-way valve are connected, and the second and third ports are connected. The second throttling element and the throttling element are opened, the first throttling element is closed, and the compressor is started. The refrigerant discharged from the compressor flows sequentially through the first port of the multi-way valve, the fourth port of the multi-way valve, the second throttling element, the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the throttling element, the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the second port of the multi-way valve, the third port of the multi-way valve, and the gas-liquid separator before flowing back to the compressor. In ultra-low temperature heating mode: The first and fourth ports of the multi-way valve are connected, and the second and third ports are also connected. The second throttling element, the throttling element, and the first throttling element are opened, controlling the compressor to start. This causes the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to be divided into two parts. One part of the refrigerant flows sequentially through the first port of the multi-way valve, the fourth port of the multi-way valve, the second throttling element, the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, the throttling element, the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the second port of the multi-way valve, the third port of the multi-way valve, and the gas-liquid separator before flowing back to the compressor. The other part of the refrigerant flows through the first throttling element and the gas-liquid separator before flowing back to the compressor. In cooling mode: The first and second ports of the multi-way valve are connected, and the third and fourth ports are connected. The second and first throttling elements are closed, the throttling element is opened, and the compressor is started, so that the refrigerant discharged by the compressor flows sequentially through the first port of the multi-way valve, the second port of the multi-way valve, the first heat exchanger, the first heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the throttling element, the second heat exchanger, the second heat exchange section of the third heat exchanger, the fourth port of the multi-way valve, the third port of the multi-way valve, and the gas-liquid separator before flowing back to the compressor.

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