Thermal management system and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a thermal management system and a vehicle. The heat management system includes a first flow path in which a liquid storage tank is not provided, a second flow path in which a liquid storage tank is provided, a switching device configured to switch between connection and disconnection of the first flow path and the second flow path, and a control device configured to control the switching device. The control device is configured so as to cause the heat medium to flow through the first flow path and the second flow path connected by the switching device when a predetermined connection condition is satisfied. When the control device determines that bubbles exceeding the allowable amount exist in the heat medium, the connection condition is switched from non-satisfaction to satisfaction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a thermal management system and a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-063735 discloses a temperature control system having a coolant circuit. The coolant circuit is provided with 1st to 5th paths through which the coolant flows, a five-way valve, and a liquid storage tank. One end of each of the 1st to 5th paths is connected to the five-way valve, and the other end is connected to the liquid storage tank. The five-way valve switches the connection of the cooling paths in such a manner that the coolant input from at least one of the 3rd and 5th paths is output to at least one of the 1st, 2nd, and 4th paths. The radiator is connected to the 1st path. The 2nd path bypasses the radiator. The power control unit (PCU) and the water pump are connected to the 3rd path. The battery is connected to the 4th path. The refrigerator and the water pump are connected to the 5th path. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In the system described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-063735, the first to fifth paths through which a heat medium such as a coolant flows are all connected to a fluid reservoir. However, depending on the structure of the vehicle, it is sometimes difficult to connect all paths (flow paths) that can be connected by a switching device (such as a five-way valve) to the fluid reservoir. In the thermal management system of such a vehicle, the multiple flow paths that can be connected by a switching device sometimes include a flow path disconnected from the fluid reservoir. However, in the flow path disconnected from the fluid reservoir, bubbles are easily generated or remain in the heat medium flowing through the flow path. If the amount of bubbles in the heat medium increases, it is generally believed that this will promote deterioration and / or excessive rotation of the pump that circulates the heat medium.

[0004] The present disclosure provides a thermal management system and a vehicle capable of reducing the amount of bubbles in a thermal medium while allowing the thermal medium to flow through a flow path disconnected from a reservoir tank as needed.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a heat management system shown below is provided.

[0006] Method 1

[0007] The thermal management system includes a first flow path without a liquid storage tank, a second flow path with a liquid storage tank, a switching device configured to switch between connecting and disconnecting the first and second flow paths, and a control device configured to control the switching device. The control device is configured to cause a heat medium to flow through the first and second flow paths connected by the switching device when a predetermined connection condition is met. Furthermore, the control device is configured to determine whether an excess of bubbles exists in the heat medium. If the control device determines that an excess of bubbles exists in the heat medium, the connection condition is switched from not meeting to meeting.

[0008] The above-mentioned thermal management system is provided with a switching device that switches the connection and disconnection of the first flow path and the second flow path, making it easy to perform appropriate thermal management according to the situation. However, when the first flow path is disconnected from the liquid storage tank, bubbles may be generated in the heat medium in the first flow path. Therefore, the above-mentioned control device allows the heat medium to circulate in the connected first flow path and the second flow path when a predetermined connection condition is met. The heat medium in the first flow path is exhausted by connecting the first flow path to the second flow path provided with the liquid storage tank. In addition, the control device determines whether there are bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium. Then, when the control device determines that there are bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium, the connection condition is switched from not meeting to meeting. Therefore, it is easy to exhaust the heat medium at an appropriate frequency. In this way, according to the above-mentioned thermal management system, the amount of bubbles in the heat medium can be reduced while the heat medium can be caused to flow in the flow path disconnected from the liquid storage tank as needed.

[0009] The thermal management system described in the first aspect can have a structure described in any one of the second to ninth aspects described below.

[0010] Method 2

[0011] The thermal management system according to the first aspect may be configured to prohibit the switching device from disconnecting the first flow path from the second flow path when the connection condition is met. Alternatively, the thermal management system may be configured to permit the switching device to disconnect the first flow path from the second flow path when the connection condition is not met.

[0012] According to the above configuration, when the connection condition is met, the first and second flow paths are maintained in a connected state. This facilitates proper exhaust of the heat medium. Furthermore, when the connection condition is not met, the first and second flow paths can be disconnected. This facilitates proper thermal management of the vehicle. When the connection condition is not met, the control device can also switch between connecting and disconnecting the first and second flow paths, for example, depending on the vehicle's state.

[0013] Method 3

[0014] The thermal management system according to the first or second aspect may further include a pump for circulating the heat medium in the first flow path. The control device may be configured to detect over-rotation of the pump based on the state of the pump. The control device may be configured to determine that an excess of bubbles in the heat medium is present when over-rotation of the pump is detected.

[0015] According to the above configuration, the control device can easily and accurately determine whether or not there are bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium.

[0016] Method 4

[0017] The thermal management system according to any one of the first to third aspects may further include a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heat medium. The control device may be configured to determine whether an excess of bubbles in the heat medium exists based on whether a trajectory length of a detection value obtained by the temperature sensor is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

[0018] According to the above configuration, the control device can easily and accurately determine whether or not there are bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium.

[0019] Method 5

[0020] In the thermal management system according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the control device may be configured to determine whether exhaust of the heat medium is completed while the connection condition is satisfied. The thermal management system may be configured to switch the connection condition from satisfied to not satisfied if it is determined that exhaust of the heat medium is completed.

[0021] According to the above configuration, when the control device determines that the heat medium contains an excess of bubbles, it performs exhaust (connecting the first and second flow paths). Then, when exhaust of the heat medium is complete, the first and second flow paths can be disconnected. This facilitates appropriate vehicle thermal management while reducing the amount of bubbles in the heat medium.

[0022] Method 6

[0023] In the heat management system according to the fifth aspect, the control device may be configured to determine that the exhaust of the heat medium is completed when a predetermined time has elapsed since the connection condition was satisfied.

[0024] According to the above configuration, it is possible to easily and appropriately determine whether exhaust of the heat medium is completed.

[0025] Method 7

[0026] In the heat management system according to the fifth aspect, the control device may be configured to determine that exhaust of the heat medium is completed when it is determined that bubbles exceeding a permissible amount are not present in the heat medium.

[0027] According to the above configuration, it is possible to easily and appropriately determine whether exhaust of the heat medium is completed.

[0028] Method 8

[0029] The thermal management system according to any one of the first to fourth aspects may be configured to switch the connection condition from being satisfied to not being satisfied if a predetermined time has passed since the connection condition was satisfied. The predetermined time may be shortened as the temperature of the heating element provided in the second flow path increases.

[0030] According to the above configuration, it is easy to achieve a balance between cooling the heating element and exhausting the heat medium.

[0031] Method 9

[0032] In the thermal management system according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, the switching device may include at least one of a four-way valve, a five-way valve, a six-way valve, a seven-way valve, an eight-way valve, a nine-way valve, and a ten-way valve.

[0033] According to the switching device, it is easy to appropriately switch the connection and disconnection between the first flow path and the second flow path.

[0034] According to the second aspect of the present disclosure, the following vehicle is provided.

[0035] Method 10

[0036] This vehicle includes the thermal management system according to any one of the first to ninth aspects.

[0037] The vehicle described above can reduce the amount of bubbles in the heat medium by using the thermal management system, while allowing the heat medium to flow through the flow path disconnected from the reservoir tank as needed.

[0038] Method 11

[0039] In the vehicle according to the tenth aspect, the first flow path may be configured to cool a first heating element mounted on the vehicle using the heat medium. The second flow path may include a cooling path configured to cool a second heating element mounted on the vehicle using the heat medium, and a bypass path configured to bypass the second heating element. The switching device may be configured to switch between the cooling path and the bypass path.

[0040] According to the above configuration, it is easy to appropriately perform thermal management of each of the first heat generating element and the second heat generating element mounted on the vehicle.

[0041] Method 12

[0042] In the vehicle described in the eleventh embodiment, the second heating element may also include a power storage device. The first heating element may also include a component configured to receive a supply of electric power from the power storage device. The control device may also be configured to connect the first flow path with the cooling path of the second flow path by the switching device when the connection condition is satisfied and the temperature of the heat medium in the first flow path is lower than a predetermined temperature, so that the heat medium circulates in the first flow path and the cooling path. In addition, the control device may also be configured to connect the first flow path with the bypass path of the second flow path by the switching device when the connection condition is satisfied and the temperature of the heat medium in the first flow path exceeds a predetermined temperature, so that the heat medium circulates in the first flow path and the bypass path.

[0043] Vehicle-mounted components receiving power from the power storage device are prone to heat generation, potentially raising the temperature of the heat medium in the first flow path. If the temperature of the heat medium in the first flow path rises excessively, connecting the first and second flow paths will make it difficult to cool the power storage device with the heat medium, potentially causing the heat medium to increase the temperature of the power storage device. Therefore, in the above configuration, the cooling path and the bypass path are switched based on the temperature of the heat medium in the first flow path. This facilitates appropriate thermal management of the power storage device.

[0044] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a thermal management system and a vehicle that can reduce the amount of bubbles in the thermal medium while allowing the thermal medium to flow through a flow path disconnected from the reservoir tank as needed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate like elements, and in which:

[0046] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a heat management system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the heat management circuit according to the first embodiment.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing a vehicle to which the thermal management system according to the first embodiment is applied.

[0049] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the OFF mode of the thermal management system according to the first embodiment.

[0050] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a first connection mode of the thermal management system according to the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a second connection mode of the thermal management system according to the first embodiment.

[0052] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the exhaust control in the first embodiment.

[0053] Figure 8 It is a diagram for explaining the first bubble determination method.

[0054] Figure 9 It is a diagram for explaining the second bubble determination method.

[0055] Figure 10 It shows Figure 7 Flowchart of a modified example of the control shown.

[0056] Figure 11 It is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the method of setting the threshold value for exhaust completion determination.

[0057] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a heat management system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the OFF mode of the thermal management system according to the second embodiment.

[0059] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing a connection pattern of a thermal management system according to the second embodiment.

[0060] Figure 15 This is a flowchart showing exhaust control in the second embodiment.

[0061] Figure 16 It shows Figure 15 Flowchart of a modified example of the control shown.

[0062] Figure 17 It shows Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a first modification of the structure of the heat management system.

[0063] Figure 18 It shows Figure 17 Diagram showing the disconnect mode of the thermal management system.

[0064] Figure 19 It shows Figure 17 FIG. 1 is a diagram of the first connection mode of the thermal management system shown.

[0065] Figure 20 It shows Figure 17 FIG. 2 is a diagram of the second connection mode of the thermal management system shown.

[0066] Figure 21 It shows Figure 17 FIG. 3 is a diagram of the third connection mode of the thermal management system shown.

[0067] Figure 22 It is shown in disconnected mode. Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a second modified example of the structure of the heat management system.

[0068] Figure 23 It shows Figure 22 FIG. 1 is a diagram of the first connection mode of the thermal management system shown.

[0069] Figure 24 It shows Figure 22 FIG. 2 is a diagram of the second connection mode of the thermal management system shown.

[0070] Figure 25 It shows Figure 22 FIG. 3 is a diagram of the third connection mode of the thermal management system shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] The embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0072] First embodiment

[0073] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the thermal management system according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 : is a diagram showing the structure of the thermal management circuit of the first embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the thermal management system 1 includes a thermal management circuit 100 , an electronic control unit (ECU) 500 , and a human machine interface (HMI) 600 .

[0074] Reference Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 The thermal management circuit 100 includes a high-temperature flow path 110 , a radiator 120 , a low-temperature flow path 130 , a condenser 140 , a refrigeration cycle flow path 150 , a refrigerator 160 , a battery flow path 170 and a five-way valve 180 .

[0075] The high-temperature flow path 110 and the refrigeration cycle flow path 150 are separated from each other and are not connected to each other. In addition, the high-temperature flow path 110 and the low-temperature flow path 130 are also separated from each other and are not connected to each other. However, the high-temperature flow path 110 and the refrigeration cycle flow path 150 are connected via the condenser 140 in a manner that allows for mutual heat exchange. The condenser 140 is connected to both the high-temperature flow path 110 and the refrigeration cycle flow path 150. In addition, the high-temperature flow path 110 and the low-temperature flow path 130 are connected via the radiator 120 in a manner that allows for mutual heat exchange. The radiator 120 is connected to both the high-temperature flow path 110 and the low-temperature flow path 130. As Figure 2 As shown, the heat sink 120 includes a high temperature (HT) heat sink 121 and a low temperature (LT) heat sink 122 .

[0076] The refrigeration cycle flow path 150 and the battery flow path 170 are separated from each other and do not communicate with each other. However, the refrigeration cycle flow path 150 and the battery flow path 170 are connected to each other via the refrigerator 160 so that heat can be exchanged between them. The refrigerator 160 is connected to both the refrigeration cycle flow path 150 and the battery flow path 170.

[0077] The five-way valve 180 has five ports P1 to P5. The five-way valve 180 is configured to switch the connection (connection) and disconnection (non-connection) of the low-temperature flow path 130 and the battery flow path 170. No liquid storage tank (R / T) is provided in the low-temperature flow path 130. A liquid storage tank 162 is provided in the battery flow path 170. The five-way valve 180 is controlled by the ECU 500. The five-way valve 180, the low-temperature flow path 130, the battery flow path 170, and the ECU 500 are respectively equivalent to an example of the "switching device", "first flow path", "second flow path", and "control device" of the present disclosure.

[0078] High-temperature flow path 110 includes flow paths 110a, 110b, and 110c. A three-way valve 113 and a liquid storage tank 115 are provided in high-temperature flow path 110. Each of flow paths 110a, 110b, and 110c is connected to the three-way valve 113 at one end and to the liquid storage tank 115 at the other end. A high-temperature radiator 121 is provided in flow path 110a. A heater core 114 is provided in flow path 110b. A pump 111, an electric heater 112, and a condenser 140 are provided in flow path 110c.

[0079] One end of the low-temperature flow path 130 is connected to port P3 of the five-way valve 180, and the other end of the low-temperature flow path 130 is connected to port P5 of the five-way valve 180. A pump 131, a smart power unit (SPU) 132, a power control unit (PCU) 133, an oil cooler (O / C) 134, and a step-up / step-down converter 135 are provided in the low-temperature flow path 130.

[0080] Refrigeration cycle 150 includes various devices that regulate temperature through a refrigeration cycle (i.e., a cycle of evaporation, compression, condensation, and expansion). Specifically, refrigeration cycle 150 includes a compressor 151, an expansion valve 152, an evaporator 153, an evaporative pressure regulator (EPR) 154, and an expansion valve 155.

[0081] The battery flow path 170 includes flow paths 170a, 170b, and 170c. One end of each of the flow paths 170a, 170b, and 170c is connected to the five-way valve 180, and the other end is connected to the liquid storage tank 162. Specifically, one end of the flow paths 170a, 170b, and 170c is connected to ports P2, P4, and P1 of the five-way valve 180, respectively. A battery 171 and an electric heater 172 are provided in the flow path 170a. The electric heater 172 heats at least one of the heat medium in the flow path 170a and the battery 171. A pump 161 is provided in the flow path 170c. The flow path 170b is provided so as to bypass the flow path 170a. The five-way valve 180 is configured to be able to switch between the flow path 170a and the flow path 170b. When the flow path 170b is connected to the low-temperature flow path 130 by the five-way valve 180, the heat medium flowing from the low-temperature flow path 130 into the five-way valve 180 avoids the flow path 170a (including the battery 171) and flows into the liquid storage tank 162 (see the following). Figure 6 In this embodiment, the flow path 170a functions as a cooling path that can cool the battery 171 using a heat medium. Furthermore, the flow path 170b functions as a bypass path that bypasses the battery 171.

[0082] A first heat medium flows through the high-temperature flow path 110. A second heat medium flows through the refrigeration cycle flow path 150. A third heat medium flows through the low-temperature flow path 130 and the battery flow path 170, respectively. In the present embodiment, a heat medium (third heat medium) of the same type as the heat medium flowing through the low-temperature flow path 130 flows through the battery flow path 170. As the first to third heat media, well-known heat media can be used. Examples of the second heat medium include hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants such as R-134a, hydrofluoroolefin refrigerants such as R-1234yf, carbon dioxide (CO2) such as R744, and propane gas. In the present embodiment, liquid heat media (for example, water or a coolant other than water) are used as the first heat medium and the third heat medium, respectively. Examples of coolants other than water include insulating oil or antifreeze such as Long Life Coolant (LLC). In this embodiment, pumps 111, 131, and 161 are each a water pump (W / P). ECU 500 uses pump drive signals to perform pulse width modulation (PWM) control of each pump. The pump drive signals indicate a duty cycle (the ratio of the high-level period to the cycle) for each pump drive instruction (high-level and low-level drive signals).

[0083] like Figure 2 As shown, pump sensors PS1, PS2, and PS3 are provided in pumps 111, 131, and 161, respectively. Pump sensors PS1 to PS3 are each configured to detect the status of the corresponding pump (e.g., rotational speed, current, and temperature). In addition, flow path sensors T1, T2, T3, and T4 are provided in the high-temperature flow path 110, the low-temperature flow path 130, the refrigeration cycle flow path 150, and the battery flow path 170, respectively. Flow path sensors T1 to T4 each include a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heat medium in the corresponding flow path and a flow sensor that measures the flow rate of the heat medium flowing through the corresponding flow path. In addition, a battery management system (BMS) 173 that monitors the status of battery 171 is provided in battery 171. BMS 173 includes various sensors that detect the status of battery 171 (e.g., voltage, current, and temperature) and outputs the detection results to ECU 500. The BMS 173 may have at least one of a state of charge (SOC) estimation function and a state of health (SOH) estimation function in addition to the above-mentioned sensor function.

[0084] ECU500 obtains detection results (sensor values) from various sensors included in the thermal management circuit 100 and controls various devices included in the thermal management circuit 100. ECU500 includes a processor 501, a random access memory (RAM) 502, and a storage device 503. As an example of the processor 501, a central processing unit (CPU) can be listed. The number of processors provided by ECU500 can be either one or more than two. The storage device 503 is configured to be able to save stored information. The storage device 503 may also include at least one of a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), and a non-volatile memory. In addition, ECU500 has a timing function (timer). Such a timing function can be implemented by hardware (timer circuit) or by software.

[0085] In addition to programs, the storage device 503 of the ECU 500 also stores various information used by the programs. In this embodiment, various controls are performed by the processor 501 executing the programs stored in the storage device 503. However, these processes can also be performed solely by hardware (e.g., a logic circuit such as wired logic) rather than software.

[0086] The human-machine interface (HMI) 600 functions as an interface between the user and the ECU 500. HMI 600 includes an input device and a notification device. The input device accepts user operations. The notification device notifies the user through a display or sound (including voice). HMI 600 can be an in-vehicle HMI or a mobile device that the user can carry.

[0087] Figure 3 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a vehicle equipped with the thermal management system according to the first embodiment. Figures 1 to 3, the vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle (xEV) equipped with the above-mentioned thermal management circuit 100 and ECU500. The vehicle 10 is configured to be able to travel using the power output from the battery 171 (driving battery). The battery 171 may also include a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery or a sodium-ion battery. The type of secondary battery may be either a liquid secondary battery or an all-solid secondary battery. A battery pack may also be formed by a plurality of secondary batteries. Other power storage devices (for example, double-layer capacitors) may also be used instead of secondary batteries. The vehicle 10 is, for example, an electric vehicle (BEV) without an internal combustion engine. However, it is not limited thereto, and the vehicle 10 may be either a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) with an internal combustion engine or another electric vehicle (xEV).

[0088] The vehicle 10 also includes a system main relay (SMR) 11, an input port 12, a charging relay 13, a communication device 14, a motor generator (MG) 21, a gear box 22, an electric oil pump (EOP) 23, an oil circuit 24, a wheel speed sensor 25, an auxiliary equipment battery 30, and an air conditioning unit 40. The voltage of the battery 171 is higher than the voltage of the auxiliary equipment battery 30. The battery 171 applies voltage to the high-voltage power line PL1. The auxiliary equipment battery 30 is a low-voltage power source for auxiliary equipment and applies voltage to the low-voltage power line PL2. The air conditioning unit 40 is connected to the high-voltage power line PL1 and receives power from the battery 171. In the vehicle 10, the heating circuit of the air conditioning unit 40 constitutes a high-temperature flow path 110 ( Figure 2 ), the cooling circuit of the air-conditioning device 40 constitutes a refrigeration circulation flow path 150 ( Figure 2 The SMR 11 , the charging relay 13 , the EOP 23 , the air conditioner 40 , the PCU 133 , the buck-boost converter 135 , and the electric heater 172 are controlled by the ECU 500 .

[0089] SMR11 is a relay located between battery 171 and PCU133. MG21 functions as a drive motor, rotating the drive wheels of vehicle 10. PCU133 is connected to high-voltage power line PL1 and uses electricity supplied from battery 171 to drive MG21. PCU133 includes, for example, an inverter. Gearbox 22 includes, for example, a speed reducer and a differential gear unit. MG21 converts electricity into torque. This torque is transmitted to the drive wheels of vehicle 10 via gearbox 22. Furthermore, MG21 generates regenerative power, for example, when vehicle 10 is decelerating, to charge battery 171.

[0090] Wheel speed sensors 25 are provided on wheels of vehicle 10 or axles that rotate in conjunction with the wheels to detect the rotational speed of the wheels. Wheel speed sensors 25 may be provided for each wheel. Wheel speed sensors 25 output detection results to ECU 500. ECU 500 calculates the traveling speed (vehicle speed) of vehicle 10 based on the detection signals from wheel speed sensors 25.

[0091] EOP23 circulates lubricating oil in the oil circuit 24. The oil cooler 134 is connected to both the low-temperature flow path 130 and the oil circuit 24, and functions as a heat exchanger. The oil cooler 134 uses the heat medium flowing through the low-temperature flow path 130 to cool the lubricating oil in the oil circuit 24. The oil circuit 24 supplies lubricating oil to the MG21 and the gear box 22, and uses the lubricating oil to cool the MG21 and the gear box 22. However, this is not limited to this, and the cooling method around the motor can be appropriately changed. For example, one of the MG21 and the gear box 22 can be oil-cooled through the oil circuit 24, and the other can be water-cooled through the low-temperature flow path 130.

[0092] Buck-boost converter 135 is connected to high-voltage power line PL1 and converts DC power between battery 171 and auxiliary battery 30. Buck-boost converter 135 includes a DC / DC converter. Buck-boost converter 135 steps down the DC power from battery 171 and outputs it to auxiliary battery 30. Auxiliary battery 30 supplies power to onboard equipment (pumps, compressors, heaters, valves, ECUs, etc.) connected to low-voltage power line PL2.

[0093] The vehicle 10 is configured to be able to perform external charging (charging of the battery 171 using electricity from outside the vehicle). The SPU 132 is provided on the charging line CHL and functions as an on-board charger (charging circuit). The SPU 132 can also function as an Electric Supply Unit (ESU). The charging relay 13 switches the connection and disconnection of the charging line CHL. Before starting external charging, the ECU 500 sets the charging relay 13 to a connected state and controls the SPU 132 during the execution of external charging. If the front end (connector) of the charging cable connected to the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) 800 is connected to the input port 12 (plug-in port) of the parked vehicle 10, the vehicle 10 is electrically connected to the EVSE 800. The vehicle 10 can charge the battery 171 using the electricity input from the EVSE 800 to the input port 12. In Figure 3In the example shown, one end of the charging line CHL is connected between the SMR 11 and the PCU 133, and the other end is connected to the inlet 12. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and one end of the charging line CHL may be connected between the battery 171 and the SMR 11.

[0094] Figure 3 The multiple vehicle-mounted devices shown can also be integrated into an electric axle (eAxle) of the "Xin1" structure. Examples of the "Xin1" structure include a "3in1" structure that integrates the drive motor, inverter, and gearbox, a "6in1" structure that further integrates the DC / DC converter, on-board charger, and BMS, and an "8in1" structure that further integrates the power distribution unit (PDU) and ECU. The electric axles can also be respectively arranged at the front and rear of the vehicle 10. The low-temperature flow path 130 can also be configured to cool these electric axles.

[0095] In the vehicle 10, the PCU 133 is cooled by the heat medium flowing through the low-temperature flow path 130. In addition, the lubricating oil in the oil circuit 24 is cooled by the heat medium flowing through the low-temperature flow path 130, and the lubricating oil is used to cool the MG 21. In this way, the low-temperature flow path 130 is configured to be able to cool the MG 21 and the PCU 133 by the heat medium. In addition, the cooling path (flow path 170a) of the battery flow path 170 is configured to be able to cool the battery 171 by the heat medium. The battery 171 is a power storage device that accumulates electricity for driving the vehicle 10, and is equivalent to an example of the "second heating element" of the present disclosure. The MG 21 and the PCU 133 are respectively vehicle-mounted components that receive power supply from the battery 171, and are equivalent to an example of the "first heating element" of the present disclosure.

[0096] The HMI 600A is an HMI (vehicle-mounted HMI) mounted on the vehicle 10 and can be used as Figure 1 The HMI 600A may also include at least one of an instrument panel, a navigation system, a center display, and a head-up display. The HMI 600A may also include a smart speaker that accepts voice input and a display device that performs AR (augmented reality) display.

[0097] The mobile terminal 600B is a terminal carried by the user of the vehicle 10 and can be used as Figure 1 ECU 500 functions by communicating with HMI 600 shown in FIG. ECU 500 wirelessly communicates with mobile terminal 600B via communication device 14. Mobile terminal 600B is, for example, a smartphone equipped with a touchscreen display. However, this is not limiting and mobile terminal 600B may also be a laptop computer, a portable game console, a wearable device (e.g., a smartwatch, smart glasses, or smart clothing), an electronic key, or the like.

[0098] In this embodiment, the heat management system 1 is configured to utilize a heat medium to perform heat management of the vehicle 10. Specifically, the heat management system 1 can operate in a plurality of modes including a disconnection mode, a first connection mode, and a second connection mode described below.

[0099] Figure 4 1 is a diagram for explaining the OFF mode of the thermal management system 1. Figure 4 In the off mode, in five-way valve 180, port P1 is connected to port P2, and port P3 is connected to port P5. Port P4 is not connected to any other port. This forms disconnected circuits C11 and C12. Circuit C11 is a fluid circuit in which port P5, low-temperature flow path 130, and port P3 are continuously connected. In the off mode, pump 131 is activated to circulate heat medium through circuit C11. As a result, heat medium flowing from low-temperature flow path 130 to port P3 is discharged from port P5 to low-temperature flow path 130. Circuit C12 is a fluid circuit in which port P2, flow path 170a, reservoir 162, flow path 170c, and port P1 are continuously connected. Pump 161 is also activated in the off mode to circulate heat medium through circuit C12. As a result, heat medium flowing from flow path 170c to port P1 is discharged from port P2 to flow path 170a. In the disconnection mode, the circuit C11 (including the low-temperature flow path 130 ) is disconnected from the reservoir tank. Therefore, the heat medium (third heat medium) in the low-temperature flow path 130 is not exhausted.

[0100] Figure 5 1 is a diagram for explaining the first connection mode of the thermal management system 1. Figure 5In the first connection mode, in the five-way valve 180, port P1 is connected to port P5, and port P2 is connected to port P3. Port P4 is not connected to any other port. This forms loop C21. Loop C21 is a fluid circuit in which port P5, low-temperature flow path 130, port P3, port P2, flow path 170a, liquid storage tank 162, flow path 170c, and port P1 are continuously connected. In the first connection mode, the heat medium circulates in loop C21 by driving pumps 131 and 161. Thus, the heat medium that flows from the low-temperature flow path 130 to port P3 is output from port P2 to flow path 170a, passes through flow path 170a, liquid storage tank 162, and flow path 170c, and flows into port P1. Furthermore, the heat medium that flows into port P1 is output from port P5 to the low-temperature flow path 130. In the first connection mode, the cooling path (flow path 170a) of the battery flow path 170 is connected to the low-temperature flow path 130 by the five-way valve 180. By connecting the low-temperature flow path 130 to the battery flow path 170 provided with the liquid storage tank 162, the heat medium (third heat medium) in the low-temperature flow path 130 is exhausted. Furthermore, the ECU 500 can also stop the pump 161 in the first connection mode.

[0101] Figure 6 1 is a diagram for explaining the second connection mode of the thermal management system 1. Figure 6 In the second connection mode, in the five-way valve 180, port P1 is connected to port P5, and port P3 is connected to port P4. Port P2 is not connected to any other port. This forms loop C22. Loop C22 is a fluid circuit in which port P5, low-temperature flow path 130, port P3, port P4, flow path 170b, liquid storage tank 162, flow path 170c, and port P1 are continuously connected. In the second connection mode, the heat medium circulates in loop C22 by driving pumps 131 and 161. Thus, the heat medium flowing from the low-temperature flow path 130 to port P3 is output from port P4 to flow path 170b, and then flows through flow path 170b, liquid storage tank 162, and flow path 170c to port P1. Furthermore, the heat medium flowing into port P1 is output from port P5 to the low-temperature flow path 130. In the second connection mode, the bypass path (flow path 170b) of the battery flow path 170 is connected to the low-temperature flow path 130 by the five-way valve 180. By connecting the low-temperature flow path 130 to the battery flow path 170 provided with the liquid storage tank 162, the heat medium (third heat medium) in the low-temperature flow path 130 is exhausted. Furthermore, the ECU 500 can also stop the pump 161 in the second connection mode.

[0102] The ECU 500 switches between the disconnection mode, the first connection mode, and the second connection mode by controlling the five-way valve 180. When the low-temperature flow path 130 and the battery flow path 170 are disconnected by the five-way valve 180 (disconnection mode), the ECU 500 causes the heat medium to flow through the low-temperature flow path 130 by the pump 131 provided in the low-temperature flow path 130, and causes the heat medium to flow through the battery flow path 170 by the pump 161 provided in the battery flow path 170 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 4 ). In addition, when the low-temperature flow path 130 and the battery flow path 170 are connected by the five-way valve 180 (first or second connection mode), the ECU 500 circulates the heat medium through the low-temperature flow path 130 and the battery flow path 170 via the pumps 131 and 161 (refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 With this structure, in any of the disconnected mode, the first connected mode, and the second connected mode, it is easy to appropriately circulate the heat medium through the low-temperature flow path 130 and the battery flow path 170. Furthermore, other multi-way valves (e.g., six-way, seven-way, eight-way, nine-way, or ten-way valves) may be used as the switching device in place of the five-way valve 180. Alternatively, the switching device may be composed of multiple multi-way valves.

[0103] In vehicle 10, the heat medium (third heat medium) flowing through low-temperature flow path 130 and battery flow path 170 is replaced as needed. For example, the third heat medium may be replaced after a predetermined period (e.g., 15 to 20 years) has passed since the initial state (new vehicle). Furthermore, when replacing an on-board component (e.g., SPU 132) installed in low-temperature flow path 130, the third heat medium may also be replaced. For example, at a dealership or factory, an operator drains the pre-replacement third heat medium from vehicle 10 and injects the replaced third heat medium into vehicle 10. This exchanges the pre-replacement third heat medium with the replaced third heat medium. A trace amount of air remains in the newly injected third heat medium (the replaced third heat medium), which is prone to accumulating while vehicle 10 is driving. Air masses in the heat medium may cause a decrease in the cooling performance of the heat medium. Furthermore, large air masses in the heat medium may cause deterioration and / or excessive rotation of the pump that circulates the heat medium.

[0104] Therefore, in the vehicle 10, the ECU 500 is configured to flow the heat medium (third heat medium) through the low temperature flow path 130 and the battery flow path 170 connected by the five-way valve 180 when a predetermined connection condition is satisfied. Specifically, when the connection condition is satisfied, the ECU 500 causes the thermal management system 1 to operate in the first connection mode ( Figure 5 ) or 2nd connection mode ( Figure 6) to operate under the condition of . The details will be described later. ECU500 determines whether there are bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium (the third heat medium). Then, when ECU500 determines that there are bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium, the connection condition is switched from not established to established. Therefore, it is easy to exhaust the heat medium at an appropriate frequency. In detail, when ECU500 does not detect that bubbles are mixed into the heat medium (that is, there are bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium), the connection condition is not established, and the thermal management system 1 can use the five-way valve 180 to disconnect the low-temperature flow path 130 from the battery flow path 170. ECU500 can also enable the thermal management system 1 to be in the disconnection mode ( Figure 4 ) is operated under the condition of the low temperature flow path 130. Thus, thermal management of the vehicle 10 can be performed separately in the low temperature flow path 130 and the battery flow path 170. On the other hand, when the above-mentioned connection condition is met, the low temperature flow path 130 is connected to the battery flow path 170 provided with a liquid storage tank. Thus, exhaust of the heat medium in the low temperature flow path 130 is performed (exhaust performed by the liquid storage tank). According to such a thermal management system 1, it is possible to reduce the amount of bubbles in the heat medium while allowing the heat medium to flow in the flow path disconnected from the liquid storage tank as needed (for example, loop C11).

[0105] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the exhaust control and thermal management control in the first embodiment. "S" in the flowchart means step. In this embodiment, the input device of HMI600A receives system start instructions and system stop instructions from the user. If the input device receives the system start instruction when the vehicle system (including ECU500) is in a stopped state, ECU500 starts and begins Figure 7 Processing flow F1 is shown. Processing flow F1 is then repeatedly executed while ECU 500 is in the operating state. The operating cycle may be approximately 50 milliseconds. Thereafter, if the input device receives a system shutdown instruction, ECU 500 executes a predetermined shutdown process and enters the shutdown state. This terminates processing flow F1.

[0106] In processing flow F1, an exhaust execution flag and a timer value are used. The exhaust execution flag is a parameter indicating whether the connection condition is met. If the exhaust execution flag is "ON", it means that the connection condition is met. During the period when the connection condition is met, the thermal management system 1 operates in the exhaust mode. In the exhaust mode, ECU 500 performs exhaust control to maintain the thermal management system 1 in the connection mode (the first or second connection mode). The timer value is a parameter indicating the elapsed time since the start of the exhaust control. These parameters are stored in the storage device 503.

[0107] When ECU 500 is started, the aforementioned parameters are initialized to their initial values, and the connection condition is not met. The exhaust execution flag is initialized to "OFF," and the timer value is initialized to "0." In this embodiment, when ECU 500 determines that an excess of bubbles exists in the heat medium, the connection condition switches from "not met" to "met." Subsequently, when the timer value exceeds a predetermined value, the connection condition switches from "met" to "not met." Hereinafter, determining whether an excess of bubbles exists in the heat medium is referred to as "bubble determination."

[0108] Reference Figure 7 In S11, ECU 500 obtains information for bubble determination (hereinafter referred to as "determination information") regarding the heat medium (third heat medium) within low-temperature flow path 130. In the following S12, ECU 500 uses the obtained determination information to determine whether bubbles exceeding the allowable amount are present in the heat medium within low-temperature flow path 130. Hereinafter, the presence of bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium is referred to as "bubbles mixed in," and the presence of bubbles within the allowable amount is referred to as "no bubbles mixed in."

[0109] In this embodiment, the above-mentioned determination information includes Figure 8 The state of the pump 131 (eg, rotational speed) and Figure 9 As shown by the flow sensor T2 ( Figure 2 ) at least one of the trajectory lengths of the temperature detection values ​​obtained (hereinafter referred to as “sensor temperature trajectory length”).

[0110] Figure 8 : is a diagram for explaining the first bubble determination method. Figure 8 In FIG. 5 , the horizontal axis represents the duty ratio (indicator Duty) of the pump drive signal received by the pump 131 from the ECU 500, and the vertical axis represents the rotational speed of the pump 131. In any of the disconnection mode, the first connection mode, and the second connection mode, the pump 131 is driven to circulate the heat medium (third heat medium) in the low-temperature flow path 130. The pump 131 is driven by the pump drive signal from the ECU 500. The rotational speed of the pump 131 is determined by the pump sensor PS2 ( Figure 2 ) detection.

[0111] Line L11 represents the boundary value (first boundary value) between the high rotation abnormality region and the normal region with respect to the rotation speed (rpm) of the pump 131. There is a tendency that the first boundary value increases as the indicated Duty (%) increases. Line L12 represents the boundary value (second boundary value) between the normal region and the low rotation abnormality region with respect to the rotation speed (rpm) of the pump 131. There is a tendency that the second boundary value increases as the indicated Duty (%) increases. The region where the rotation speed of the pump 131 is above the second boundary value (line L12) and below the first boundary value (line L11) corresponds to the normal region. The region where the rotation speed of the pump 131 is higher than the first boundary value corresponds to the high rotation abnormality region. The region where the rotation speed of the pump 131 is lower than the second boundary value corresponds to the low rotation abnormality region. Figure 8 The graph shown (including line L11 and line L12 ) is stored in the storage device 503 .

[0112] In the first bubble determination method, the ECU 500 Figure 7 In S11, the duty and rotation speed of the pump 131 are obtained. In the following S12, based on the information obtained in S11 and Figure 8 Line L11 in the figure determines whether the state of the pump 131 belongs to the high rotation abnormality area. Then, the ECU 500 determines that "bubbles are mixed in" when the state of the pump 131 belongs to the high rotation abnormality area, and determines that "bubbles are not mixed in" when the state of the pump 131 belongs to the normal area or the low rotation abnormality area. The fact that the state of the pump 131 belongs to the high rotation abnormality area means that over-rotation of the pump 131 occurs. If the air mass in the heat medium (for example, water) hits the blades of the pump 131, the resistance generated by the heat medium disappears, and over-rotation of the pump 131 is likely to occur. When the state of the pump 131 belongs to the high rotation abnormality area, it is considered that over-rotation of the pump 131 temporarily occurs due to bubbles exceeding the allowable amount mixed into the heat medium.

[0113] ECU 500 may also determine whether the status of pump 131 falls within the low rotational speed abnormality range based on line L12. If the status of pump 131 falls within the low rotational speed abnormality range, ECU 500 may also illuminate or sound an alarm associated with pump 131. However, determining the low rotational speed abnormality of pump 131 and line L12 are not essential.

[0114] Figure 9 : is a diagram for explaining the second bubble determination method. Figure 9 In FIG. 1 , line L20 shows the change of the temperature detection value obtained by the flow path sensor T2 (the temperature detection value of the heat medium in the low-temperature flow path 130). In addition, lines D11 and D12 also show the change of the temperature detection value obtained by the flow path sensor T2. Figure 2) includes a temperature sensor (eg, a water temperature sensor) for detecting the temperature of the heat medium in the low-temperature flow path 130 .

[0115] Lines D11 and D21 represent the temperature detection value and sensor temperature trajectory length, respectively, when there are no bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium within low-temperature flow path 130. Lines D12 and D22 represent the temperature detection value and sensor temperature trajectory length, respectively, when there are bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium within low-temperature flow path 130.

[0116] ECU 500 accumulates the trajectory (value shift) of the temperature detection value obtained by flow path sensor T2 for each unit period of length dT (e.g., period t1 to t2, period t2 to t3, etc.) to obtain the sensor temperature trajectory length. The greater the fluctuation in the heat medium temperature detection value per unit period, the longer the sensor temperature trajectory length. ECU 500 resets the sensor temperature trajectory length each time a unit period passes and restarts accumulation of the sensor temperature trajectory length from the initial value (0).

[0117] In the second air bubble determination method, the ECU 500 Figure 7 In S11, the sensor temperature trajectory length is obtained (updated). In the following S12, it is determined whether the sensor temperature trajectory length obtained in S11 is greater than a predetermined value (hereinafter referred to as "Th10"). If the sensor temperature trajectory length is greater than Th10, ECU 500 determines that "bubbles are mixed in" (see line D22). If the sensor temperature trajectory length is less than Th10, it determines that "bubbles are not mixed in" (see line D21). If bubbles (e.g., a large number of small bubbles) are present in the heat medium, the temperature sensor (flow path sensor T2) temporarily detects the gas temperature, making the temperature detection value susceptible to the temperature of surrounding components. The presence of bubbles makes it difficult for the heat medium to transfer heat to the temperature sensor. When the amount of bubbles in the heat medium within the low-temperature flow path 130 is large, the temperature detection value obtained by flow path sensor T2 fluctuates dramatically. As a result, the sensor temperature trajectory length increases. If the sensor temperature trajectory length is greater than Th10, it is believed that the temperature sensor (flow path sensor T2) temporarily detects the temperature of surrounding components due to bubbles exceeding the allowable amount of bubbles mixed in the heat medium.

[0118] The ECU 500 may also implement a combination of the first and second bubble detection methods. For example, the ECU 500 may determine that "bubbles are present" if it detects either the pump 131 state falling within the high rotational abnormality region (the first phenomenon) or the sensor temperature trajectory length being greater than Th10 (the second phenomenon). If it detects neither of these phenomena, it may determine that "bubbles are not present." Furthermore, the ECU 500 may perform bubble detection using other methods. The ECU 500 may also utilize a learned model generated through machine learning using AI (artificial intelligence). For example, the ECU 500 may perform bubble detection using a learned model that outputs a bubble detection result based on at least one of first input data representing the pump 131 state (e.g., at least one of the rotational speed, current, and temperature detected by the pump sensor PS2) and second input data representing the heat medium state within the low-temperature flow path 130 (e.g., at least one of the heat medium temperature and flow rate detected by the flow path sensor T2).

[0119] When the connection condition is not met, if it is judged in S12 that "bubbles are not mixed" ("No" in S12), the processing proceeds to S15 when the connection condition is not met. In S15, ECU500 determines whether the timer value is greater than a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as "Th1"). Th1 can also be, for example, a time of more than 30 seconds and less than 1 minute. If the timer value has always been the initial value (0), it is judged as "No" in S15, and the processing proceeds to S17. In S17, ECU500 determines whether the exhaust execution flag is "ON". If the exhaust execution flag has always been the initial value (OFF), it is judged as "No" in S17, and the processing proceeds to S50.

[0120] In S50, the ECU 500 executes a predetermined thermal management control (hereinafter referred to as "normal thermal management control") in the vehicle 10. In the normal thermal management control, the five-way valve 180 (switching device) is allowed to disconnect the low-temperature flow path 130 from the battery flow path 170. Therefore, the ECU 500 can operate in any mode (including Figures 4 to 6 ECU 500 performs thermal management of vehicle 10 in the various modes shown. For example, ECU 500 switches the connection and disconnection of low-temperature flow path 130 and battery flow path 170 based on the state of vehicle 10. ECU 500 may also switch between the disconnection mode, the first connection mode, and the second connection mode based on the outputs of various sensors mounted on vehicle 10. ECU 500 may also select a mode to prevent the temperature of various devices (thermally managed objects) mounted on vehicle 10 from becoming excessively high or low.

[0121] After the process of S50 is executed, the process returns to the first step (S11). While the exhaust execution flag and the timer value are maintained at their initial values ​​and it is determined in S12 that "air bubbles are not mixed", the normal thermal management control (S50) is continued.

[0122] When the connection condition is not met, if it is determined in S12 that "bubbles are mixed in" ("Yes" in S12), the process proceeds to S13. In S13, ECU500 determines whether the exhaust execution flag is "ON". If the exhaust execution flag has always been the initial value (OFF), it is determined as "No" in S13, and after the ECU500 sets the exhaust execution flag to "ON" in the next S14, the process proceeds to S15. By changing the exhaust execution flag from "OFF" to "ON", the connection condition is switched from not met to met. At this time, the exhaust control is not performed, the timer value becomes "0", and the exhaust execution flag becomes "ON". Therefore, it is determined as "No" in S15 and "Yes" in S17, and the process proceeds to S21.

[0123] In S21, the ECU 500 determines whether the temperature of the heat medium (third heat medium) in the low-temperature flow path 130 is lower than a predetermined temperature (hereinafter referred to as "Th2"). The ECU 500 may also determine whether the temperature of the heat medium (third heat medium) in the low-temperature flow path 130 is lower than a predetermined temperature (hereinafter referred to as "Th2"). Figure 2 ) output, and obtain the temperature of the heat medium in the low-temperature flow path 130. When the temperature of the heat medium in the low-temperature flow path 130 is lower than Th2 ("Yes" in S21), the ECU 500 connects the low-temperature flow path 130 with the cooling path (flow path 170a) of the battery flow path 170 by using the five-way valve 180 in the next S51, so that the third heat medium flows through the low-temperature flow path 130 and the flow path 170a. More specifically, the ECU 500 controls the five-way valve 180 so that the thermal management system 1 Figure 5 The ECU 500 operates in the first connection mode shown. Thus, while promoting the cooling of the battery 171, the exhaust of the third heat medium is performed. On the other hand, when the temperature of the heat medium in the low-temperature flow path 130 is above Th2 ("No" in S21), the ECU 500 connects the low-temperature flow path 130 with the bypass path (flow path 170b) of the battery flow path 170 using the five-way valve 180 in the next S52, so that the third heat medium circulates in the low-temperature flow path 130 and the flow path 170b. In more detail, the ECU 500 controls the five-way valve 180 so that the thermal management system 1 Figure 6 The operation is performed in the second connection mode shown. This allows the third heat medium to be exhausted while suppressing the temperature rise of the battery 171. The processes of S21, S51, and S52 described above correspond to exhaust control.

[0124] As described above, in either S51 or S52, the low-temperature flow path 130 is connected to the battery flow path 170 by the five-way valve 180. In this way, when the connection condition is met, the five-way valve 180 (switching device) is prohibited from disconnecting the low-temperature flow path 130 from the battery flow path 170. After executing the processing of either S51 or S52, the processing proceeds to S22. In S22, the ECU 500 updates the timing value by performing timing (for example, increasing the timing value corresponding to the elapsed time). The obtained timing value represents the elapsed time since the connection condition was met, which is equivalent to the execution time (cumulative value) of the exhaust control. After the timing value update (S22) is executed, the processing returns to the initial step (S11).

[0125] While the connection condition is satisfied, a "No" determination is made in S15 and a "Yes" determination is made in S17. Therefore, exhaust control (S21, S51, and S52) continues. While the connection condition is satisfied, ECU 500 determines in S15 whether exhaust of the third heat medium is complete. Then, if Th1 has elapsed since the connection condition was satisfied, the timer value reaches Th1. Therefore, exhaust of the third heat medium is determined to be complete ("Yes" in S15), and processing proceeds to S16.

[0126] In S16, ECU 500 returns the exhaust execution flag and timer value to their initial values. This changes the exhaust execution flag from "ON" to "OFF," switching the connection condition from satisfied to not satisfied. The process then proceeds to S17, where a "No" determination is made, and the process proceeds to S50. Consequently, exhaust control (S21, S51, and S52) is no longer executed. Alternatively, the thermal management system 1 may be maintained in the disconnected mode through normal thermal management control (S50) from the completion of exhaust of the third heat medium until the predetermined period has elapsed.

[0127] As described above, ECU 500 (control device) is configured to perform thermal management control of vehicle 10 using a connection mode that connects the first flow path to the second flow path and a disconnection mode that disconnects the first flow path from the second flow path. While the connection condition is not met, ECU 500 performs thermal management control using the connection mode and the disconnection mode. Then, if ECU 500 detects the presence of bubbles exceeding the allowable amount in the heat medium (third heat medium), the connection condition switches from not meeting to meeting, and exhaust control is performed to maintain the thermal management system 1 in the connection mode. While the connection condition is met, ECU 500 performs exhaust control. Then, if a predetermined time (Th1) has passed since the connection condition was met, the connection condition switches from meeting to not meeting, and ECU 500 switches from exhaust control to thermal management control. According to this thermal management system 1, the amount of bubbles in the heat medium can be reduced while the heat medium can be caused to flow through the flow path disconnected from the reservoir as needed.

[0128] In the above embodiment, when a predetermined time has passed since the connection condition was established, it is determined that the exhaust of the heat medium is complete, and the connection condition is switched from established to not established. By continuously executing the exhaust control within the predetermined time (Th1), sufficient exhaust can be easily performed. However, the method of determining whether the exhaust of the heat medium is complete is arbitrary. For example, the ECU 500 may not execute Figure 7 The processing flow F1 shown in FIG. Figure 10 Processing flow F1A is shown.

[0129] Figure 10 It shows Figure 7 Flowchart of a modification of the process flow F1 shown. Figure 10 The processing flow F1A shown is the same as the processing flow F1 ( Figure 7 ) is the same. Figure 10 In this variation, if it is determined in S12 that "bubbles are not mixed in," the process proceeds to S18. In S18, ECU 500 returns the exhaust execution flag and timer value to their initial values. While the connection condition is met, the determination in S12 corresponds to a determination of whether exhaust of the third heat medium is complete. Specifically, while the connection condition is met, ECU 500 determines in S12 whether exhaust of the third heat medium is complete based on whether the amount of bubbles in the heat medium has fallen below the permissible amount. If it is determined in S12 that "bubbles are not mixed in" ("No" in S12), exhaust of the third heat medium is determined to be complete, and the process proceeds to S18. Then, through the process in S18, the exhaust execution flag changes from "ON" to "OFF," and the connection condition switches from being met to not being met. This switches from exhaust control (S21, S51, S52) to thermal management control (S50).

[0130] In the above embodiment, Th1 is set based on the time required to complete exhaust, but the present invention is not limited thereto and Th1 may be changed based on the temperature of the battery 171 (heat generating element provided in the second flow path). Figure 11 1 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the method of setting Th1 (a threshold value used in exhaust completion determination). Figure 11ECU500 may also use a graph such as line L30 to set Th1 so that the higher the temperature of battery 171, the smaller Th1 becomes. In line L30, the rate of change represented by the slope of the graph (the ratio of the change in Th1 to the change in the temperature of battery 171) is constant. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. As shown in line L31 or line L32, the higher the temperature of battery 171, the smaller or larger the rate of change becomes. Alternatively, as shown in line L33, Th1 may change in a step-like manner according to the temperature of battery 171. In the processing flow F1 ( Figure 7 ) or process F1A( Figure 10 ), if the predetermined time (Th1) has passed since the connection condition was established, the connection condition is switched from established to not established (S15 and S16). According to the above figure (lines L30 to L33), the higher the temperature of the battery 171, the shorter the predetermined time (Th1). According to such control, it is easy to achieve a balance between the cooling of the heating element (battery 171) provided in the second flow path and the exhaust of the heat medium in the first flow path (low-temperature flow path 130). In addition, flow rate can also be used instead of time. ECU500 can also accumulate the flow rate of the third heat medium (for example, the flow rate detected by the flow path sensor T2) instead of time in S22, and compare the accumulated value of the flow rate with the predetermined value (Th1) in S15.

[0131] ECU 500 does not necessarily need to execute process flow F1 or F1A at all times during operation. ECU 500 may execute process flow F1 or F1A only under predetermined conditions (e.g., when the temperature of battery 171 is below a predetermined temperature). Furthermore, ECU 500 may execute process flow F1 or F1A while vehicle 10 is traveling, and perform exhaust control according to a process flow (different algorithm) not shown in the figure while vehicle 10 is parked or externally charged.

[0132] Second embodiment

[0133] Next, the second embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0134] Figure 12 : is a diagram showing the structure of a thermal management system according to the second embodiment. Figure 12 The thermal management system 1A includes a thermal management circuit 100A and an ECU 500A instead of the thermal management circuit 100 and the ECU 500 ( Figure 1 The thermal management circuit 100A includes a battery flow path 170X instead of the battery flow path 170 ( Figure 1 ). The battery flow path 170X has substantially the same structure as the battery flow path 170 ( Figure 1) has the same structure, but does not have the bypass path (flow path 170b). In addition, the thermal management circuit 100A has a switching valve 180A instead of the five-way valve 180 ( Figure 1 As the switching valve 180A, it is possible to use Figure 1 However, in the switching valve 180A, the bypass path (flow path 170b) is not connected to the port P4. Therefore, the switching valve 180A functions substantially as a four-way valve.

[0135] The thermal management system 1A can operate in a disconnection mode and a connection mode described below.

[0136] Figure 13 1A is a diagram for explaining the OFF mode of the thermal management system 1A. Figure 13 In this disconnection mode, in the switching valve 180A, port P1 is connected to port P2, and port P3 is connected to port P5. Thus, circuits C31 and C32 are formed, which are disconnected from each other. Figure 4 Circuits C11 and C12 are shown as being identical. In the disconnect mode, pumps 131 and 161 are driven, with pump 131 circulating the heat medium through circuit C31 and pump 161 circulating the heat medium through circuit C32. In the disconnect mode, circuit C31 (including low-temperature flow path 130) is disconnected from the liquid storage tank.

[0137] Figure 14 This is a diagram for explaining the connection mode of the thermal management system 1A. Figure 14 In this connection mode, in the switching valve 180A, the port P1 is connected to the port P5, and the port P2 is connected to the port P3. Thus, the circuit C40 is formed with Figure 5 The circuit C21 shown is the same. In the linked mode, pumps 131 and 161 are in operation, circulating the heat medium in circuit C40. However, this is not limiting; ECU 500A may also deactivate pump 161 in the linked mode. In the linked mode, the heat medium (third heat medium) within low-temperature flow path 130 is exhausted by connecting it to battery flow path 170, which is equipped with a liquid storage tank 162.

[0138] In addition, the switching valve 180A is not limited to a five-way valve, and may be another multi-way valve (for example, a four-way valve, a six-way valve, a seven-way valve, an eight-way valve, a nine-way valve, or a ten-way valve).

[0139] Figure 15 ECU500A is a flowchart showing the exhaust execution control in the second embodiment. Figure 1 ) has the same structure, but does not execute process F1 ( Figure 7 ), and execute Figure 15 The processing flow F2 is shown. Figure 15 The processing flow F2 shown in FIG. 1 is as follows except that S53 and S50A are used instead of S21 and S50-S52 ( Figure 7 ), the process is the same as that of F1.

[0140] In the processing flow F2, if the connection condition is met, the judgment in S17 is "Yes", and the exhaust control is executed in S53. In S53, the ECU 500A connects the low-temperature flow path 130 and the flow path 170a using the switching valve 180A, so that the third heat medium flows through the low-temperature flow path 130 and the flow path 170a. More specifically, the ECU 500A controls the switching valve 180A so that the thermal management system 1A Figure 14 The operation is performed in the connection mode shown. Thus, the third heat medium is exhausted. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S22.

[0141] On the other hand, if the connection condition is not satisfied, the result of the determination in S17 is "No", and the thermal management control is executed in S50A. Figure 7 The conventional thermal management control in the S50 is basically the same. However, in the S50A, the Figure 13 and Figure 14 Instead of the modes shown Figures 4 to 6 In S50A, the switching valve 180A (switching device) is allowed to disconnect the low temperature flow path 130 from the battery flow path 170. The ECU 500A can also switch the disconnection mode ( Figure 13 ) and link mode ( Figure 14 ) to switch.

[0142] According to the heat management system 1A of the second embodiment described above, it is also possible to reduce the amount of bubbles in the heat medium while allowing the heat medium to flow through the flow path disconnected from the reservoir as needed.

[0143] The ECU 500A may be configured not to execute the processing flow F2 ( Figure 15 ) and execute Figure 16 Process flow F2A is shown. Figure 16 It shows Figure 15 Flowchart of a modified example of the processing flow shown. Figure 16 The processing flow F2A shown is the same as the processing flow F2 ( Figure 15 ) is the same as S18 of the processing flow F2A and S18 of the aforementioned processing flow F1A ( Figure 10 )same.

[0144] In each of the processing flows F2 and F2A, Th1 may be a fixed value or may be variable. ECU 500A may also use, for example, Figure 11 In the diagram shown (any line among lines L30 to L33), Th1 is set so that Th1 becomes smaller as the temperature of the battery 171 increases. Alternatively, the flow rate may be used instead of the time (timer value).

[0145] ECU 500A does not necessarily need to execute process flow F2 or F2A at all times during operation. ECU 500A may execute process flow F2 or F2A only under predetermined conditions (e.g., when the temperature of battery 171 is below a predetermined temperature). Furthermore, ECU 500A may execute process flow F2 or F2A while the vehicle equipped with thermal management system 1A is driving, and perform exhaust control according to a process flow (different algorithm) not shown in the figure while the vehicle is parked or externally charged.

[0146] Other implementations

[0147] The structure of the thermal management system is not limited to Figure 1 or Figure 12 Next, a modification of the structure of the heat management system will be described.

[0148] First Modification of the Structure of the Thermal Management System

[0149] Figure 17 It shows Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a first modification of the structure of the heat management system. Figure 17 The illustrated thermal management system 2 includes a thermal management circuit 200 and an ECU 520. The thermal management circuit 200 includes a condenser 250, a refrigeration circulation flow path 240 connected to the condenser 250, and an eight-way valve 280. The eight-way valve 280 includes eight ports P11 to P18. The thermal management circuit 200 also includes a refrigerator circuit 210, a radiator circuit 230, a drive unit circuit 260, and a battery circuit 270, all connected to the eight-way valve 280. The thermal management circuit 200 is controlled by the ECU 520.

[0150] The refrigerator circuit 210 includes a flow path 210a. The flow path 210a is a flow path connecting ports P13 and P15 of the eight-way valve 280. A pump 211 and a refrigerator 220 are provided in the flow path 210a. The pump 211 is, for example, a water pump. The refrigerator 220 is connected to (shared by) both the refrigerator circuit 210 and the refrigeration cycle flow path 240. The refrigerator 220 performs heat exchange between the heat medium circulating in the refrigerator circuit 210 and the heat medium circulating in the refrigeration cycle flow path 240. The radiator circuit 230 includes a flow path 230a. The flow path 230a is a flow path connecting ports P16 and P17 of the eight-way valve 280. The radiator 231 is provided in the flow path 230a. The radiator 231 is arranged downstream of the grille shutter (not shown) and performs heat exchange between the outside air of the vehicle and the heat medium.

[0151] Refrigeration cycle 240 includes a compressor 241, a solenoid valve 242, solenoid valves 244A, 244B, 245, and 246, an evaporator 247, a check valve 248, and a liquid accumulator 249. Condenser 250 includes a water-cooled condenser 251 and an air-cooled condenser 252. Water-cooled condenser 251 is connected to both refrigeration cycle 240 and radiator circuit 230.

[0152] Compressor 241 compresses the gas-phase refrigerant circulating in refrigeration cycle 240 in accordance with control commands from ECU 520. Solenoid valve 242 is connected in parallel with compressor 241 and adjusts the flow of gas-phase refrigerant into compressor 241 in accordance with control commands from ECU 520. Solenoid valves 244A and 244B switch the flow of gas-phase refrigerant discharged from compressor 241 to either water-cooled condenser 251 or air-cooled condenser 252 in accordance with control commands from ECU 520. Water-cooled condenser 251 exchanges heat with the heat medium flowing through radiator circuit 230. Air-cooled condenser 252 exchanges heat with air introduced into the vehicle cabin to produce warm air. Solenoid valve 245 restricts the flow of liquid-phase refrigerant into evaporator 247 in accordance with control commands from ECU 520. Solenoid valve 246 restricts the flow of liquid refrigerant into refrigerator 220 in accordance with control commands from ECU 520. Solenoid valves 245 and 246 function to expand the liquid refrigerant. Accumulator 249 removes liquid refrigerant from the gas-liquid mixed refrigerant. If the refrigerant has not been completely vaporized by evaporator 247, it prevents the liquid refrigerant from being drawn into compressor 241.

[0153] Drive unit circuit 260 includes flow path 260a. Flow path 260a connects ports P12 and P18 of eight-way valve 280. Flow path 260a includes a pump 261, SPU 262, PCU 263, oil cooler 264, reservoir 265, and heat medium temperature sensor 266. Reservoir 265 maintains the pressure and amount of the heat medium within drive unit circuit 260 by storing a portion of the heat medium within drive unit circuit 260 (heat medium that overflows due to pressure increases). Heat medium temperature sensor 266 detects the temperature of the heat medium within flow path 260a.

[0154] Pump 261 is, for example, a water pump. SPU262 controls the charging and discharging of battery 272 in accordance with control instructions from ECU520. PCU263 converts the DC power supplied from battery 272 into AC power in accordance with control instructions from ECU520, and supplies the AC power to a motor (not shown) built into the variable speed drive axle. The oil cooler 264 cools the variable speed drive axle by exchanging heat between the heat medium circulating in the drive unit circuit 260 and the lubricating oil of the motor. The heat generated by supplying power to the stator without rotating the rotor of the motor can also be transferred to the heat medium circulating in the drive unit circuit 260. SPU262, PCU263 and oil cooler 264 are cooled by the heat medium circulating in the drive unit circuit 260.

[0155] The battery circuit 270 includes a flow path 270a. The flow path 270a is a flow path connecting ports P11 and P14 of the eight-way valve 280. No fluid storage tank is provided in the flow path 270a. An advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) 271, a battery 272, and a temperature sensor 273 are provided in the flow path 270a. In addition to the ADAS 271, the battery circuit 270 may also include an automatic driving system (ADS). The battery 272 can also supply power for driving to the motor built into the transaxle. The temperature sensor 273 detects the temperature of the battery 272.

[0156] The eight-way valve 280 switches the path through which the heat medium flows according to a control command from the ECU 520. The thermal management system 2 can operate in a disconnection mode, a first connection mode, a second connection mode, and a third connection mode described below.

[0157] Figure 18 2 is a diagram for explaining the OFF mode of the thermal management system 2. Figure 18In this disconnected mode, eight-way valve 280 connects ports P11 and P15, ports P12 and P16, ports P13 and P14, and ports P17 and P18. This forms disconnected circuits C51 and C52. Circuit C51 is a fluid circuit that continuously connects port P11, flow path 270a, port P14, port P13, flow path 210a, and port P15. In disconnected mode, pump 211 is driven to circulate heat medium through circuit C51. As a result, heat medium flowing from flow path 210a to port P15 is output from port P11 to flow path 270a, and then flows through flow path 270a to port P14. Furthermore, heat medium flowing into port P14 is output from port P13 to flow path 210a. Furthermore, circuit C52 is a fluid circuit in which port P16, flow path 230a, port P17, port P18, flow path 260a, and port P12 are continuously connected. Even in disconnected mode, pump 261 is driven, causing the heat medium to circulate through circuit C52. Consequently, the heat medium flowing from flow path 260a to port P12 is discharged from port P16 to flow path 230a, and then flows through flow path 230a to port P17. Furthermore, the heat medium flowing into port P17 is discharged from port P18 to flow path 260a. In disconnected mode, circuit C51 (including flow path 270a) is disconnected from the reservoir. Therefore, the heat medium in flow path 270a is not exhausted.

[0158] Figure 19 1 is a diagram for explaining the first connection mode of the thermal management system 2. Figure 19In this first connection mode, eight-way valve 280 connects ports P11 and P12, ports P13 and P17, ports P14 and P18, and ports P15 and P16. This forms disconnected circuits C61 and C62. Circuit C61 is a fluid circuit that continuously connects port P11, flow path 270a, port P14, port P18, flow path 260a, and port P12. In the first connection mode, pump 261 is driven to circulate the heat medium through circuit C61. As a result, the heat medium flowing from flow path 260a to port P12 is output from port P11 to flow path 270a, and then flows through flow path 270a to port P14. Furthermore, the heat medium flowing into port P14 is output from port P18 to flow path 260a. Circuit C62 is a fluid circuit that continuously connects port P16, channel 230a, port P17, port P13, channel 210a, and port P15. Even in the first connection mode, pump 211 is driven to circulate the heat medium through circuit C62. Consequently, the heat medium flowing from channel 210a to port P15 is discharged from port P16 to channel 230a, and then flows through channel 230a to port P17. Furthermore, the heat medium flowing into port P17 is discharged from port P13 to channel 210a. In the first connection mode, eight-way valve 280 connects channel 270a to channel 260a. By connecting channel 270a to channel 260a, which is equipped with a liquid storage tank 265, the heat medium in channel 270a is exhausted.

[0159] Figure 20 2 is a diagram for explaining the second connection mode of the thermal management system 2. Figure 20In this second connection mode, eight-way valve 280 connects ports P11 and P15, ports P12 and P16, ports P13 and P17, and ports P14 and P18. This forms circuit C71. Circuit C71 is a fluid circuit that continuously connects port P11, channel 270a, port P14, port P18, channel 260a, port P12, port P16, channel 230a, port P17, port P13, channel 210a, and port P15. In the second connection mode, pumps 211 and 261 are activated, allowing the heat medium to circulate in circuit C71. As a result, the heat medium flowing from channel 210a to port P15 is discharged from port P11 to channel 270a, flows through channel 270a to port P14, and is discharged from port P18 to channel 260a. Furthermore, the heat medium flows into port P12 through flow path 260a, is discharged from port P16 to flow path 230a, flows into port P17 through flow path 230a, and is discharged from port P13 to flow path 210a. In the second connection mode, eight-way valve 280 connects flow path 270a to flow path 260a. By connecting flow path 270a to flow path 260a, which is provided with a liquid storage tank 265, the heat medium in flow path 270a is exhausted. Furthermore, ECU 520 can also stop pump 261 in the second connection mode.

[0160] Figure 21 2 is a diagram for explaining the third connection mode of the thermal management system 2. Figure 21 In this third connection mode, eight-way valve 280 connects ports P11 and P15, ports P12 and P13, and ports P14 and P18. Ports P16 and P17 are not connected to any other port. This forms loop C72. Loop C72 is a fluid circuit that continuously connects port P11, flow path 270a, port P14, port P18, flow path 260a, port P12, port P13, flow path 210a, and port P15. In the third connection mode, pumps 211 and 261 are activated, allowing the heat medium to circulate in loop C72. As a result, the heat medium flowing from flow path 210a to port P15 is output from port P11 to flow path 270a, flows through flow path 270a to port P14, and is output from port P18 to flow path 260a. Furthermore, the heat medium flows into port P12 through flow path 260a and is discharged from port P13 to flow path 210a. In the third coupling mode, eight-way valve 280 couples flow path 270a and flow path 260a. By connecting flow path 270a to flow path 260a, which is provided with a liquid storage tank 265, the heat medium in flow path 270a is exhausted. Furthermore, ECU 520 can also stop pump 261 in the third coupling mode.

[0161] ECU520 can also execute Figure 15 The process flow F2 shown or Figure 16 However, in this modification, the process flow F2A is adopted. Figures 18 to 21 Instead of the modes shown Figure 13 and Figure 14 In the case where the connection condition is not met, the disconnection mode is permitted in S50A. In S50A, the ECU 520 may also allow the disconnection mode ( Figure 18 ), 1st connection mode ( Figure 19 ), 2nd connection mode ( Figure 20 ) and the third connection mode ( Figure 21 ) for switching. When the connection condition is met, the connection mode is maintained in S53 and the disconnection mode is prohibited. In S53, ECU520 controls the eight-way valve 280 so that the thermal management system 2 operates in one of the first to third connection modes. As a result, the heat medium in the flow path 270a is exhausted. ECU520 may also select one connection mode from the first to third connection modes in S53 to avoid the temperature of each device (thermal management object) mounted on the vehicle from becoming too high or too low. In this modification, the eight-way valve 280, flow path 270a, flow path 260a, and ECU520 respectively correspond to an example of the "switching device", "first flow path", "second flow path", and "control device" of the present disclosure.

[0162] In addition, in the case where a bypass path that bypasses the battery 272 is provided in the thermal management circuit 200, the ECU 520 may also execute Figure 7 The process flow F1 shown or Figure 10 Processing flow F1A is shown. For example, a bypass path can be added to battery circuit 270, and a port connected to the bypass path can be added to eight-way valve 280 (switching device). The switching device (eight-way valve 280 with an additional port) can then be configured as follows: in response to instructions from ECU 520, the valve body rotates to selectively connect to port P14 connected to the path (cooling path) where battery 272 is located, or to a port connected to the bypass path. Furthermore, a bypass path and its port can be added to components other than battery 272 (e.g., radiator 231).

[0163] Second Modification of the Structure of the Thermal Management System

[0164] Figure 22 It shows Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a second modified example of the structure of the heat management system. Figure 22The heat management system 3 shown includes a heat management circuit 300 and an ECU 530. The heat management circuit 300 includes a heat medium circuit 310 and a refrigeration circuit 320. The heat medium circuit 310 and the refrigeration circuit 320 share a refrigerator 326.

[0165] Heat medium circuit 310 includes flow paths 311 to 315, 340, pumps 311c and 312b, and a five-way valve 330. Five-way valve 330 has ports P21 to P25. Pumps 311c and 312b are, for example, water pumps. Flow path 340 connects pumps 311c and 312b. Flow path 340 includes branching portions 341, 342, and 343.

[0166] Flow path 311 connects port P22 of the five-way valve 330 to the pump 311c. A battery 311b and a temperature sensor 311d are provided in flow path 311. Temperature sensor 311d detects the temperature of battery 311b. Flow path 312 connects port P21 of the five-way valve 330 to the pump 312b. Flow path 312 contains a front inverter 312c, a front electric motor 312d, a DC-DC converter 312e, a rear inverter 312f, a rear electric motor 312g, an ADAS-ECU 312h, and a temperature sensor 312i. Temperature sensor 312i detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing through flow path 312. Neither flow path 311 nor 312 has a fluid reservoir. Flow path 313 connects port P25 of the five-way valve 330 to the branch portion 341. Radiator 313a and liquid storage tank 313b are provided in flow path 313. Flow path 314 connects port P24 of five-way valve 330 to branch portion 342. Refrigerator 326 is provided in flow path 314. Flow path 315 connects port P23 of five-way valve 330 to branch portion 343.

[0167] The refrigeration circuit 320 includes a circulation flow path 350, a bypass flow path 351, and an internal heat exchanger 329. The circulation flow path 350 is a flow path through which a working medium (e.g., water) circulates. The circulation flow path 350 is provided with a compressor 321, a condenser 322, a first expansion valve 323, an in-vehicle evaporator 324, and a manifold 327. A storage dryer 328 is connected to the manifold 327. The bypass flow path 351 is connected to the circulation flow path 350 in a manner that bypasses the in-vehicle evaporator 324. The second expansion valve 325 and the refrigerator 326 are provided in the bypass flow path 351. The internal heat exchanger 329 is connected to a portion of the circulation flow path 350 upstream of the first expansion valve 323 and a portion of the circulation flow path 350 downstream of the in-vehicle evaporator 324.

[0168] In circulation flow path 350, compressor 321 compresses the working medium. Condenser 322 condenses the working medium discharged from the compressor. First expansion valve 323 expands the working medium flowing out of condenser 322. In-vehicle evaporator 324 exchanges heat between the working medium flowing out of first expansion valve 323 and the air inside the vehicle cabin. Refrigerator 326 exchanges heat between the heat medium flowing through flow path 314 and the working medium flowing through bypass flow path 351.

[0169] Five-way valve 330 can also switch the flow path of thermal management circuit 300 in accordance with control commands from ECU 530, thereby operating thermal management system 3 in one of the following modes: a heating mode for heating battery 311b, a cooling mode for cooling battery 311b, a vehicle interior cooling mode, a vehicle interior heating mode, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, thermal management system 3 can operate in a disconnected mode, a first connected mode, a second connected mode, and a third connected mode, as described below.

[0170] Figure 22 The thermal management system 3 shown operates in the disconnect mode. In the disconnect mode, port P24 of the five-way valve 330 is connected to ports P21 and P22, respectively. Ports P23 and P25 are not connected to any other ports. This forms circuits C81 and C82. Circuit C81 is a fluid circuit in which port P24, flow path 314, flow path 340, pump 311c, flow path 311, and port P22 are continuously connected. Circuit C82 is a fluid circuit in which port P24, flow path 314, flow path 340, pump 312b, flow path 312, and port P21 are continuously connected. In the disconnect mode, pumps 311c and 312b are driven, and these pumps circulate the heat medium in circuits C81 and C82. The heat medium flowing from port P24 into flow path 314 branches at branching portion 342, flowing in flow path 340 toward flow path 311 and flow path 312, respectively. The heat medium pressurized by pump 311c flows through flow path 311 to port P22. The heat medium pressurized by pump 312b flows through flow path 312 to port P21. In disconnect mode, circuits C81 and C82 are disconnected from the reservoir. Therefore, the heat medium is not exhausted from either flow path 311 or 312.

[0171] Figure 23 3 is a diagram for explaining the first connection mode of the thermal management system 3. Figure 23In the first connection mode, in five-way valve 330, port P25 is connected to ports P21 and P22, respectively. Ports P23 and P24 are not connected to any other ports. This forms circuits C91 and C92. Circuit C91 is a fluid circuit in which port P25, flow path 313, flow path 340, pump 311c, flow path 311, and port P22 are continuously connected. Circuit C92 is a fluid circuit in which port P25, flow path 313, flow path 340, pump 312b, flow path 312, and port P21 are continuously connected. In the first connection mode, pumps 311c and 312b are driven, and these pumps circulate the heat medium through circuits C91 and C92. The heat medium flowing from port P25 into flow path 313 branches at branching portion 341, flowing into flow path 311 and flow path 312, respectively, within flow path 340. In the first connection mode, the flow path 313 is connected to the flow paths 311 and 312 by the five-way valve 330. By connecting the flow paths 311 and 312 to the flow path 313 provided with the liquid storage tank 313b, the heat medium is exhausted from the flow paths 311 and 312.

[0172] Figure 24 3 is a diagram for explaining the second connection mode of the thermal management system 3. Figure 24 In the second connection mode, in five-way valve 330, port P21 is connected to ports P24 and P25, respectively, and port P22 is connected to ports P24 and P25, respectively. Port P23 is not connected to any other port. In this second connection mode, five-way valve 330 also connects flow path 313 to flow paths 311 and 312, respectively. By connecting flow paths 311 and 312 to flow path 313, which is equipped with a liquid storage tank 313b, heat medium is exhausted from flow paths 311 and 312, respectively. Furthermore, in the second connection mode, flow paths 311 and 312 are also connected to flow path 314.

[0173] Figure 25 3 is a diagram for explaining the third connection mode of the thermal management system 3. Figure 25 In the third connection mode, port P21 of five-way valve 330 is connected to ports P23 to P25, and port P22 is connected to ports P23 to P25. In this third connection mode, five-way valve 330 also connects flow path 313 to flow paths 311 and 312. By connecting flow paths 311 and 312 to flow path 313, which is equipped with a liquid storage tank 313b, heat medium is exhausted from flow paths 311 and 312, respectively. Furthermore, in the third connection mode, flow paths 311 and 312 are also connected to flow paths 314 and 315, respectively.

[0174] ECU530 can also execute Figure 15 The process flow F2 shown or Figure 16 However, in this modification, the process flow F2A is adopted. Figures 22 to 25 Instead of the modes shown Figure 13 and Figure 14 In the case where the connection condition is not satisfied, the disconnection mode is permitted in S50A. In S50A, the ECU 530 may also enable the disconnection mode ( Figure 22 ), 1st connection mode ( Figure 23 ), 2nd connection mode ( Figure 24 ) and the third connection mode ( Figure 25 ) is switched. When the connection condition is met, the connection mode is maintained in S53 and the disconnection mode is prohibited. In S53, ECU530 controls the five-way valve 330 so that the thermal management system 3 operates in one of the first to third connection modes. As a result, the heat medium is exhausted in the flow paths 311 and 312, respectively. In S53, ECU530 may also select one connection mode from the first to third connection modes to avoid the temperature of each device (thermal management object) mounted on the vehicle from becoming too high or too low. In this modification, the five-way valve 330, flow paths 311, 312, flow path 313, and ECU530 respectively correspond to an example of the "switching device", "first flow path", "second flow path", and "control device" of the present disclosure.

[0175] In addition, in the case where a bypass path that bypasses the battery 311b is provided in the thermal management circuit 300, the ECU 530 may also execute Figure 7 The process flow F1 shown or Figure 10 For example, the flow path 315 may be changed to a bypass path by changing the port P23 from an output port to an input port.

[0176] Vehicles that utilize thermal management systems are not limited to cars; they can also include buses, trucks, or work vehicles (tractors, forklifts, etc.). Vehicles can also be configured to operate autonomously or remotely. They can also be automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The number of wheels is not limited to four; it can be three or five or more. Vehicles can also be configured to be wirelessly charged.

[0177] The various features related to the above-mentioned thermal management system and thermal management method (the features described in the embodiment and the modified examples) can also be implemented in any combination. The thermal management system can also be applied to devices other than vehicles.

[0178] The embodiments disclosed herein are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and non-restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than the description of the embodiments above, and is intended to encompass all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

Claims

1. A thermal management system, characterized in that: have: The first flow path does not have a liquid storage tank; The second flow path is provided with a liquid storage tank; a switching device configured to switch the connection and disconnection between the first flow path and the second flow path; as well as a control device configured to control the switching device, The control device is configured to cause the heat medium to flow through the first flow path and the second flow path connected by the switching device when a predetermined connection condition is satisfied. The control device is configured to determine whether there are bubbles exceeding an allowable amount in the heat medium. When the control device determines that bubbles exceeding a permissible amount are present in the heat medium, the connection condition is switched from not satisfied to satisfied.

2. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that Composition: When the connection condition is satisfied, the switching device is prohibited from disconnecting the first flow path and the second flow path. When the connection condition is not satisfied, the switching device is permitted to disconnect the first flow path and the second flow path.

3. The thermal management system according to claim 1, wherein: The thermal management system further includes a pump configured to circulate the heat medium through the first flow path. The control device is configured to detect excessive rotation of the pump based on the state of the pump, The control device is configured to determine that bubbles exceeding a permissible amount are present in the heat medium when over-rotation of the pump is detected.

4. The thermal management system according to claim 1, wherein: The thermal management system further includes a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the heat medium. The control device is configured to determine whether or not there are bubbles exceeding an allowable amount in the heat medium based on whether or not a locus length of a detection value obtained by the temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

5. The thermal management system according to claim 1, wherein: The control device is configured to determine whether exhaust of the heat medium is completed while the connection condition is satisfied. The thermal management system is configured to switch the connection condition from satisfied to not satisfied when it is determined that exhaust of the heat medium is completed.

6. The thermal management system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The control device is configured to determine that exhaust of the heat medium is completed when a predetermined time has elapsed since the connection condition was satisfied.

7. The thermal management system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The control device is configured to determine that exhaust of the heat medium is completed when it is determined that bubbles exceeding an allowable amount do not exist in the heat medium.

8. The thermal management system according to claim 1, wherein: The thermal management system is configured to switch the connection condition from being satisfied to not being satisfied if a predetermined time has passed since the connection condition was satisfied. The higher the temperature of the heating element provided in the second flow path, the shorter the predetermined time.

9. The thermal management system according to claim 1, wherein: The switching device includes at least one of a four-way valve, a five-way valve, a six-way valve, a seven-way valve, an eight-way valve, a nine-way valve, and a ten-way valve.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that: A thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 9 is provided.

11. The vehicle according to claim 10, characterized in that The first flow path is configured to cool a first heat generating element mounted on the vehicle using the heat medium. The second flow path includes a cooling path configured to cool a second heating element mounted on the vehicle using the heat medium and a bypass path configured to bypass the second heating element. The switching device is configured to switch between the cooling path and the bypass path.

12. The vehicle according to claim 11, characterized in that The second heating element includes an electricity storage device, The first heating element includes a member configured to receive power from the power storage device. The control device is configured to: when the connection condition is met and the temperature of the heat medium in the first flow path is lower than a predetermined temperature, connect the first flow path and the cooling path of the second flow path by the switching device, so that the heat medium flows through the first flow path and the cooling path; when the connection condition is met and the temperature of the heat medium in the first flow path exceeds the predetermined temperature, connect the first flow path and the bypass path of the second flow path by the switching device, so that the heat medium flows through the first flow path and the bypass path.

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