Thermal management system

Abstract

The present disclosure passes through a thermal management system. A heat management system for a chargeable electrical device is provided with a first flow path and a second flow path through which a heat medium flows, a switching device, a pump for circulating the heat medium, and a processor. When the electric device starts charging in a state in which the first flow path and the second flow path are disconnected, the processor performs a degassing process for the first flow path and the second flow path by connecting the first flow path and the second flow path by means of the switching device and driving the pump when the charging is performed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to thermal management systems. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-063735 discloses a temperature control system including a coolant circuit having a path connected to a PCU, a path connected to a battery, a reserve tank, and a five-way valve for switching the coolant flow path. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Although not explicitly stated in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-063735, controlling the state of the five-way valve can temporarily create a circuit in which the path connected to the PCU (first flow path) or the path connected to the battery (second flow path) is disconnected from the reservoir tank. In this case, there is a possibility that air bubbles may enter (or remain in) the path not connected to the reservoir tank.

[0004] The present disclosure provides a heat management system that can suppress air bubbles from being mixed into (or remaining in) a first flow path and a second flow path using a reserve tank.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a thermal management system for a rechargeable electrical device includes: a first flow path configured to flow a heat medium; a second flow path configured to flow the heat medium; a reserve tank disposed in the second flow path; a switching device configured to switch the connection between the first and second flow paths; a pump configured to circulate the heat medium through each of the first and second flow paths when the first and second flow paths are connected; and a processor. When charging of the electrical device begins with the first and second flow paths disconnected, the processor is configured to connect the first and second flow paths using the switching device and drive the pump during charging, thereby performing a first degassing process on the first and second flow paths.

[0006] As described above, when charging of the electrical device begins with the first and second flow paths disconnected, the first degassing process is performed on the first and second flow paths. This allows degassing of the first and second flow paths while the electrical device is charging. As a result, the reserve tank can be used to prevent bubbles from entering (or remaining in) the first and second flow paths.

[0007] Furthermore, by performing the first degassing process during charging, the amount of bubbles mixed in (remaining) after charging is reduced compared to the amount of bubbles mixed in (remaining) before the first degassing process. Consequently, restrictions on the use of electrical equipment due to the need for degassing after charging can be suppressed.

[0008] The processor may also be configured to terminate the first degassing process if it continues for a first predetermined time or longer. This configuration prevents the first degassing process from continuing for a first predetermined time or longer. As a result, the time required to execute a single first degassing process can be shortened. Furthermore, "continuing the degassing process for a first predetermined time or longer" also includes the case where degassing is interrupted during a single first degassing process and then resumed, resulting in the execution time (cumulative time) of the first degassing process exceeding the first predetermined time or longer.

[0009] The thermal management system includes: a first power storage device configured to exchange heat with a heat medium flowing through one of a first flow path and a second flow path; and a first drive device configured to generate driving force by exchanging heat with the heat medium flowing through the other of the first and second flow paths. This configuration prevents bubbles from entering (or remaining in) the first and second flow paths during charging, enabling efficient cooling of the first power storage device and the first drive device via the heat medium during charging.

[0010] The processor may be configured to stop the first degassing process if the temperature of the first power storage device reaches or exceeds a first predetermined temperature during the execution of the first degassing process. This configuration can prevent the heat medium, which has been heated by the first power storage device, from flowing into the second flow path. Furthermore, if the temperature of the first power storage device reaches or exceeds the first predetermined temperature, the first degassing process may be stopped and other control measures (e.g., cooling of the first power storage device) may be performed.

[0011] The thermal management system may include a bypass path that bypasses at least a portion of the first flow path where heat exchange occurs between the first power storage device and the heat medium. The processor may also be configured to, during the first degassing process, if the temperature of the heat medium flowing through the second flow path is equal to or higher than a second predetermined temperature, prevent the heat medium from flowing through the portion and instead direct the heat medium through the bypass path. This configuration allows the degassing process to be performed while suppressing a temperature increase of the first power storage device due to the heat medium flowing through the second flow path.

[0012] The processor may be configured to not perform the first degassing process if the accumulated time the pump is driven with the first and second flow paths connected exceeds a second predetermined time. This configuration can prevent the first degassing process from being excessively performed in the electrical device.

[0013] The accumulated time may also be the sum of a first accumulated time during which the first degassing process is executed and a second accumulated time, the second accumulated time being the time the pump is driven while the first and second flow paths are connected while the electrical device is performing control other than charging. With this configuration, unlike a case where only the first accumulated time is considered as the accumulated time, control can be performed to limit the execution of the first degassing process based on the time during which degassing is actually performed in the first and second flow paths.

[0014] The processor may be configured to execute the first degassing process when the heat medium circulating in the electrical equipment is replaced without executing the first degassing process. In this case, the aforementioned air bubbles are likely to be introduced when the heat medium is replaced. Therefore, with this configuration, the first degassing process can eliminate the air bubbles introduced by replacing the heat medium.

[0015] The processor may be configured to connect the first and second flow paths and drive the pump after charging is completed, thereby performing a second degassing process on the first and second flow paths, if charging is completed before a first predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the first degassing process. With this configuration, even if charging is completed without the first degassing process being sufficient, degassing of the first and second flow paths can be performed by the second degassing process.

[0016] The processor may also be configured to connect the first and second flow paths and drive the pump after charging is completed, if the temperature of the first power storage device at the start of charging is above a third predetermined temperature, thereby performing a third degassing process on the first and second flow paths. With this configuration, if the temperature of the first power storage device is above the third predetermined temperature, the first degassing process during charging can be avoided, and the third degassing process can be performed after charging. As a result, the heat medium, which has been heated by the heat of the first power storage device, can be prevented from flowing into the second flow path during charging (preventing the temperature of the first power storage device from increasing excessively due to heat from the drive device), while also enabling degassing of the first and second flow paths after charging is completed.

[0017] The switching device may include a five-way valve or an eight-way valve. With this configuration, the connection state between the first flow path and the second flow path can be easily switched using the five-way valve or the eight-way valve.

[0018] The thermal management system may also include: a radiator; a second power storage device; and a second drive device, configured to generate driving force. The radiator may be provided in the second flow path. At least one of the second power storage device and the second drive device may also be configured to exchange heat with the heat medium flowing through the first flow path. With this configuration, the heat medium cooled by the radiator can be used to cool at least one of the second power storage device and the second drive device, while also degassing the first and second flow paths.

[0019] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to suppress the bubbles from being mixed into (remaining in) the first flow path and the second flow path using the reserve tank. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] 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 represent like elements, and in which:

[0021] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the configuration of an electric vehicle equipped with the thermal management system according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the heat management system according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a heat management circuit according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a first communication pattern of the heat management circuit according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a second communication pattern of the heat management circuit according to the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a third communication pattern of the heat management circuit according to the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a first diagram showing a control flow in the thermal management system according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 8 FIG. 2 is a second diagram showing a control flow in the thermal management system according to the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 9 FIG3 is a third diagram showing a control flow in the thermal management system according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 10FIG4 is a fourth diagram showing a control flow in the thermal management system according to the first embodiment.

[0031] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a heat management system according to the second embodiment.

[0032] Figure 12 This is a first diagram showing a control flow in a thermal management system according to the second embodiment.

[0033] Figure 13 FIG. 2 is a second diagram showing a control flow in the thermal management system according to the second embodiment.

[0034] Figure 14 FIG3 is a third diagram showing a control flow in the thermal management system according to the second embodiment.

[0035] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a heat management system according to a first modification of the first and second embodiments.

[0036] Figure 16 It is a diagram showing the first communication pattern in the first modification.

[0037] Figure 17 It is a diagram showing the second communication pattern in the first modification.

[0038] Figure 18 1 is a diagram illustrating a first modified example of the second communication pattern in the first modified example.

[0039] Figure 19 It is a diagram showing a second modification example of the second communication pattern in the first modification example.

[0040] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating a first communication pattern of a heat management system according to a second modification of the first and second embodiments.

[0041] Figure 21 It is a diagram showing the second communication pattern of the second modification example.

[0042] Figure 22 It is a diagram showing the first modified example of the second communication pattern in the second modified example.

[0043] Figure 23 It is a diagram showing a second modification example of the second communication pattern in the second modification example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, identical or corresponding parts are denoted by identical reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0045] The following description uses the thermal management system of the present disclosure as an example, wherein the thermal management system is mounted on a vehicle. The vehicle is preferably equipped with a battery for driving. Examples of the vehicle include a battery electric vehicle (BEV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). However, the use of the thermal management system of the present disclosure is not limited to vehicles.

[0046] [First embodiment]

[0047] Figure 1 This figure shows an electric vehicle 10 equipped with a thermal management system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The electric vehicle 10 is rechargeable. Specifically, the electric vehicle 10 includes a battery 173, a charging circuit 11, and an outlet 12. The electric vehicle 10 and the battery 173 are examples of "electrical equipment" and "first power storage device," respectively, as used herein.

[0048] Battery 173 stores electricity for driving electric vehicle 10. Connecting, for example, the charging connector 21 of EVSE 20 to outlet 12 allows EVSE 20 to supply power to battery 173. Power input to outlet 12 is supplied to battery 173 via charging circuit 11. Charging circuit 11 may also include SPU 132, described later.

[0049] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the thermal management system 1. The thermal management system 1 includes a thermal management circuit 100, an electronic control unit (ECU) 500, and an HMI (Human Machine Interface) 600.

[0050] Thermal management circuit 100 is configured to circulate a heat medium. It includes a high-temperature circuit 110, a radiator 120, a low-temperature circuit 130, a condenser 140, a refrigeration cycle 150, a chiller 160, a battery circuit 170, and a five-way valve 180. Five-way valve 180 is an example of a "switching device" in the present disclosure.

[0051] The high temperature circuit 110 includes a water pump (W / P) 111, an electric heater 112, a three-way valve 113, a heater core 114, and a reserve tank (R / T) 115. The radiator 120 is connected to both the high temperature circuit 110 and the low temperature circuit 130 (ie, shared).

[0052] The heat sink 120 includes a high temperature (HT: High Temperature) heat sink 121 and a low temperature (LT: Low Temperature) heat sink 122 (both refer to Figure 3 ).

[0053] The low-temperature circuit 130 includes, for example, a water pump 131, a smart power unit (SPU) 132, a power control unit (PCU) 133, an oil cooler (O / C) 134, a step-up / step-down converter 135, and a temperature sensor 136. The water pump 131 is an example of a "pump" as used herein. The PCU 133 and the oil cooler 134 are each devices capable of generating driving force for the electric vehicle 10. The PCU 133 and the oil cooler 134 are each an example of a "first drive device" as used herein.

[0054] Condenser 140 is connected to both high-temperature circuit 110 and refrigeration cycle 150. Refrigeration cycle 150 includes compressor 151, expansion valve 152, evaporator 153, evaporative pressure regulator (EPR) 154, and expansion valve 155. Chiller 160 is connected to both refrigeration cycle 150 and battery circuit 170.

[0055] The battery circuit 170 includes, for example, a water pump 171, an electric heater 172, a battery 173, a bypass path 174, a storage tank 175, and a temperature sensor 176. The five-way valve 180 is connected to the low-temperature circuit 130 and the battery circuit 170. Figure 3 The water pump 171 is an example of a “pump” in the present disclosure.

[0056] The ECU 500 controls the thermal management loop 100 . The ECU 500 includes a processor 501 , a memory 502 , a storage device 503 , an interface 504 , a timer 505 , and a timer 506 .

[0057] The processor 501 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit). The memory 502 is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage device 503 is a rewritable non-volatile memory such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a flash memory. The storage device 503 stores system programs including an OS (Operating System) and control programs including computer-readable code required for control operations. The processor 501 implements various processes by reading the system programs and control programs from the memory 502, expanding them, and executing them. The interface 504 controls communication between the ECU 500 and the components of the thermal management circuit 100. Timers 505 and 506 each measure the elapsed time from the execution of a predetermined process. The functions of the timers 505 and 506 will be described in detail later.

[0058] The ECU 500 generates control instructions based on sensor values ​​(e.g., temperatures at various locations) obtained from various sensors (not shown) included in the thermal management circuit 100 and user operations received by the HMI 600, and outputs the generated control instructions to the thermal management circuit 100. The ECU 500 may also be divided into multiple ECUs for each function. Figure 2 , the ECU 500 includes a single processor 501 , but the ECU 500 may include a plurality of processors. The same applies to the memory 502 and the storage device 503 .

[0059] In this specification, the term "processor" is not limited to a processor in the narrow sense that executes processing in a stored program format. A "processor" may also include hard-wired circuits such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) and FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays). Therefore, the term "processor" can also be rewritten to mean processing circuitry that predefines processing via computer-readable code and / or hard-wired circuitry.

[0060] The HMI 600 includes a display with a touch panel, an operation panel, a console, etc. The HMI 600 receives user operations for controlling the thermal management system 1 and outputs a signal indicating the user operations to the ECU 500 .

[0061] <Structure of Thermal Management Circuit>

[0062] Figure 3 This diagram shows an example of the configuration of the thermal management circuit 100 in the first embodiment. The heat medium (typically hot water) circulating in the high-temperature circuit 110 flows through one or both of a first path: water pump 111 - condenser 140 - electric heater 112 - three-way valve 113 - heater core 114 - reservoir tank 115 - water pump 111; and a second path: water pump 111 - condenser 140 - electric heater 112 - three-way valve 113 - high-temperature radiator 121 - reservoir tank 115 - water pump 111.

[0063] The heat medium (coolant) circulating in the low-temperature circuit 130 flows through a path extending from the water pump 131 to the SPU 132 to the PCU 133 to the oil cooler 134 to the boost-down converter 135 to the five-way valve 180 to the low-temperature radiator 122 and finally to the water pump 131. This path includes a flow path 130a extending from the water pump 131 to the SPU 132 to the PCU 133 to the oil cooler 134 to the boost-down converter 135 to the five-way valve 180. Flow path 130a is an example of the "first flow path" in the present disclosure.

[0064] The water pump 131 is operated according to the ECU 500 (see Figure 2 ) control instructions, so that the heat medium circulates in the low-temperature circuit 130. SPU132 controls the charging and discharging of the battery 173 according to the control instructions from ECU500. PCU133 converts the DC power supplied from the battery 173 into AC power according to the control instructions from ECU500, and supplies the AC power to the motor (not shown) built into the variable speed drive axle. The oil cooler 134 uses an electric oil pump (EOP: Electrical Oil Pump) (not shown) to circulate the lubricating oil of the motor. The temperature sensor 136 detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing through the flow path 130a (for example, the upstream side of the buck-boost converter 135). The SPU132, PCU133, oil cooler 134 and buck-boost converter 135 are cooled by the heat medium circulating in the low-temperature circuit 130. The five-way valve 180 switches the path of the heat medium in the low-temperature circuit 130 and the battery circuit 170 according to the control instructions from ECU500. The low-temperature radiator 122 is disposed near the high-temperature radiator 121 and performs heat exchange with the high-temperature radiator 121 .

[0065] The heat medium (gas-phase refrigerant or liquid-phase refrigerant) circulating in refrigeration cycle 150 flows through one or both of the first and second paths described below. The first path is the path from compressor 151 to condenser 140 to expansion valve 152 to evaporator 153 to EPR 154 to compressor 151. The second path is the path from compressor 151 to condenser 140 to expansion valve 155 to chiller 160 to compressor 151.

[0066] The heat medium (coolant) circulating in the battery circuit 170 flows through one or both of the first path: water pump 171 - chiller 160 - five-way valve 180 - electric heater 172 - battery 173 - reservoir tank 175 - water pump 171; and the second path: water pump 171 - chiller 160 - five-way valve 180 - bypass path 174 - reservoir tank 175 - water pump 171. Reservoir tank 175 is located at the junction of the first and bypass paths 174. The first path includes flow path 170a, which runs from the five-way valve 180 - electric heater 172 - battery 173 - reservoir tank 175 - water pump 171. The placement of reservoir tank 175 is not limited to the example above. For example, reservoir tank 175 may be located between the five-way valve 180 and battery 173. Flow path 170a is an example of a "second flow path" in this disclosure.

[0067] Water pump 171 circulates the heat medium within battery circuit 170 in accordance with control commands from ECU 500. Chiller 160 cools the heat medium circulating in battery circuit 170 by exchanging heat between the heat medium circulating in refrigeration cycle 150 and the heat medium circulating in battery circuit 170. Electric heater 172 heats the heat medium in accordance with control commands from ECU 500. Battery 173 supplies power for driving to the motor built into the transaxle. Battery 173 can be heated by electric heater 172 or cooled by chiller 160. Bypass path 174 bypasses at least portion 170b of flow path 170a where battery 173 and heat medium exchange heat. Bypass path 174 is designed to allow the heat medium to bypass electric heater 172 (the portion of flow path 170a that exchanges heat with electric heater 172 (not referenced)) and battery 173 (portion 170b). When the heat medium flows through bypass path 174, changes in the heat medium's temperature caused by heat absorption and heat dissipation between the heat medium and battery 173 can be suppressed. Reserve tank 175 stores a portion of the heat medium within battery circuit 170 to maintain the pressure and amount of the heat medium within battery circuit 170. Temperature sensor 176 detects the temperature of battery 173.

[0068] The five-way valve 180 is provided with five ports P1 to P5. Port P1 is the inlet port for the heat medium to flow into the chiller 160. Port P2 is the outlet port for the heat medium to flow out to the electric heater 172 and battery 173 (portion 170b) of the battery circuit 170. Port P3 is the inlet port for the heat medium to flow into the low-temperature circuit 130 from the SPU 132, PCU 133, oil cooler 134, and buck-boost converter 135. Port P4 is the outlet port for the heat medium to flow out to the bypass path 174 of the battery circuit 170. Port P5 is the outlet port for the heat medium to flow out to the low-temperature radiator 122.

[0069] <Connectivity Mode>

[0070] Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing an example of the first communication mode using the five-way valve 180. Figure 4 As shown, in the first communication mode, a path connecting ports P1 and P2, and a path connecting ports P3 and P5 are formed in five-way valve 180. These two paths are independent of each other. No other path is formed to connect these two paths. In this case, low-temperature circuit 130 (flow path 130a) and battery circuit 170 (flow path 170a) are completely independently connected in parallel. The first communication mode is the circuit mode established when the "degassing execution flag," described later, is off.

[0071] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing an example of the second communication mode using the five-way valve 180. Figure 5 As shown, in the second communication mode, a path connecting ports P1 and P5, and a path connecting ports P3 and P2 are formed in the five-way valve 180. In this case, the low-temperature circuit 130 (flow path 130a) and the battery circuit 170 (flow path 170a) are connected in series. As a result, the reserve tank 175, the water pump 171, and the water pump 131 are connected in series. By driving at least one of the water pumps 171 and 131 in this state, degassing is performed in each of the flow paths 170a and 130a using the reserve tank 175. The second communication mode is a circuit mode that is established when the "degassing execution flag," described later, is on and predetermined conditions, described later, are met. In the first embodiment, in the second communication mode, both the water pumps 171 and 131 are driven. However, it is also possible to drive only one of the water pumps 171 and 131.

[0072] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing an example of the third communication mode using the five-way valve 180. Figure 6As shown, in the third connection mode, in the five-way valve 180, a path connecting port P1 and port P5 and a path connecting port P3 and port P4 are formed. In this case, the reserve tank 175, the water pump 171, and the water pump 131 are connected in series. On the other hand, no heat exchange occurs between the heat medium and the battery 173. In addition, the third connection mode is a circuit mode formed when the "degassing execution flag" described later is in the ON state and a predetermined condition described later is satisfied. In this case, each of the water pumps 171 and 131 is driven. In addition, only one of the water pumps 171 and 131 may be driven.

[0073] In addition, the first to third connection modes of the five-way valve 180 are not limited to Figures 4 to 6 the examples shown.

[0074] As described above, sometimes a circuit in which the flow path 130a connected to the PCU133 and the reserve tank 175 are not connected is temporarily formed (for example, the first connection mode). In this case, in the conventional thermal management system, there is a possibility that air bubbles are mixed into (remain in) the flow path 130a.

[0075] Therefore, in the first embodiment, when the electric vehicle 10 starts charging in a state where the flow path 130a and the flow path 170a are disconnected, when performing the above charging, the five-way valve 180 is used to connect the flow path 130a and the flow path 170a and the water pumps (131, 171) are driven, thereby performing (starting) the degassing process for the flow path 130a and the flow path 170a (hereinafter referred to as "degassing process A"). Specifically, the ECU500 forms the second connection mode (refer to Figure 5 ) or the third connection mode (refer to Figure 6 ) by controlling the five-way valve 180 and drives the water pumps (131, 171), thereby performing the degassing process A. Thus, the reserve tank 175 is used to degas both the flow path 130a and the flow path 170a. In addition, the degassing process A is an example of the "first degassing process" of the present disclosure.

[0076] <Control flow of the ECU>

[0077] Next, refer to Figures 7 to 10 to describe the control flow of the ECU500 (processor 501). Figure 7 The control flow shown can also be executed (started) for each predetermined cycle (for example, 1 second).

[0078] As Figure 7As shown, in step S1, the ECU 500 determines whether the degassing end flag is off. The degassing end flag refers to a flag (signal) that changes according to the length of the cumulative time of degassing in the electric vehicle 10, as described in detail later. When the above-mentioned cumulative time is less than the predetermined time t2 described later, it is determined that the degassing is insufficient, and the degassing end flag is maintained as off. When the degassing end flag is off ("Yes" in S1), the process enters step S2. When the degassing end flag is on ("No" in S1), the process ends.

[0079] In step S2, ECU 500 determines whether the degassing completion flag is off. The degassing completion flag is a flag indicating whether the degassing process A during charging has been completed (achieved). If the execution time (duration) of the degassing process A is less than the predetermined time t1 described below, it is determined that the degassing process A is not completed, and the degassing completion flag is maintained off. If the degassing completion flag is off ("Yes" in S2), the process proceeds to step S3. If the degassing completion flag is on ("No" in S2), the process proceeds to step S15.

[0080] In step S3, the ECU 500 determines whether the degassing execution flag is on. If the degassing execution flag is on, the degassing process (degassing process A) during the charging of the battery 173 is executed. If the degassing execution flag is on ("Yes" in S3), the process proceeds to step S6. If the degassing execution flag is off ("No" in S3), the process proceeds to step S4. In addition, if the degassing execution flag is off, in the thermal management circuit 100, for example, the first communication mode (see Figure 4 ).

[0081] In step S4, ECU 500 determines whether battery 173 is currently charging. For example, ECU 500 may determine whether charging is currently occurring based on factors such as whether charging connector 21 is connected to outlet 12, the charging schedule, and whether electric vehicle 10 is parked near a rechargeable facility (or a charging station, etc.). If charging is currently occurring ("Yes" in S4), processing proceeds to step S5. If charging is not currently occurring ("No" in S4), processing terminates.

[0082] In step S5, the ECU 500 turns on the degassing execution flag. Thus, the ECU 500 starts the degassing process A. Specifically, the ECU 500 controls the five-way valve 180 to form the second communication mode (see Figure 5 ) or the third connection mode (refer to Figure 6) and drives the water pumps (131, 171). In addition, at the time point of step S5, either the second communication mode or the third communication mode can be formed. In addition, it is also possible to temporarily wait for the communication mode to be controlled by the five-way valve 180 until the determination of step S10 described later is completed.

[0083] In step S6, the ECU 500 determines whether the temperature of the battery 173 is lower than the predetermined temperature T1. Specifically, the ECU 500 determines whether the temperature of the temperature sensor 176 (see Figure 2 ) is less than a predetermined temperature T1 (e.g., 35°C) pre-stored in memory 502. If the temperature of battery 173 is less than predetermined temperature T1 ("YES" in S6), it is determined that battery 173 does not need to be cooled, and the process proceeds to step S7. If the temperature of battery 173 is greater than predetermined temperature T1 ("NO" in S6), cooling of battery 173 is prioritized, and the process proceeds to step S8. Predetermined temperature T1 is an example of the "first predetermined temperature" in the present disclosure.

[0084] In step S7, the ECU 500 uses the timer 505 (see Figure 2 ) time counting operation. In addition, if the time counting by the timer 505 has already started at the time of step S7, the ECU 500 continues the time counting by the timer 505. Next, the process proceeds to step S10.

[0085] In step S8 , ECU 500 turns off the purge execution flag. That is, ECU 500 stops (ends or interrupts) the purge process A. Next, the process proceeds to step S9 .

[0086] In step S9, the ECU 500 stops the time counting by the timer 505. If the time counting by the timer 505 is stopped at the time point of step S7, the ECU 500 maintains the stopped state of the time counting by the timer 505. Next, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0087] In step S10, the ECU 500 determines whether the temperature of the heat medium flowing through the low temperature circuit 130 (flow path 130a) is lower than the cooling allowable temperature T2. Specifically, the ECU 500 determines whether the temperature sensor 136 (see Figure 2) is less than the cooling allowable temperature T2 (e.g., 40°C) pre-stored in memory 502. Furthermore, the cooling allowable temperature T2 is higher than the predetermined temperature T1 of step S6. If the temperature of the heat medium is less than the cooling allowable temperature T2 ("Yes" in S10), the process proceeds to step S11. If the temperature of the heat medium is greater than or equal to the cooling allowable temperature T2 ("No" in S10), the process proceeds to step S12. Furthermore, the cooling allowable temperature T2 is an example of the "second predetermined temperature" in the present disclosure.

[0088] In step S11, the ECU 500 forms the second communication mode (see FIG. 1 ) in order to allow the heat medium to flow (circulate) to the battery 173 (portion 170 b ). Figure 5 ) is used to control the five-way valve 180. Next, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0089] In step S12, the ECU 500 prevents the heat medium from flowing (distributing) to the battery 173 (portion 170b) and allows the heat medium to flow (distribute) to the bypass path 174, thereby forming a third communication mode (see FIG. Figure 6 ) is used to control the five-way valve 180. Next, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0090] In step S13, ECU 500 determines whether the time counted by timer 505 is greater than or equal to a predetermined time t1 (e.g., 30 seconds to 1 minute). Information on predetermined time t1 may be pre-stored in memory 502. If the time count is greater than or equal to predetermined time t1 ("Yes" in S13), the process proceeds to step S14. If the time count is less than or equal to predetermined time t1 ("No" in S13), the process proceeds to step S15. Predetermined time t1 is an example of a "first predetermined time" in the present disclosure.

[0091] In step S14 , ECU 500 turns on a purge completion flag. Then, the process proceeds to step S15 .

[0092] In step S15, ECU 500 determines whether charging of battery 173 is complete. For example, ECU 500 may determine that charging is complete based on, for example, the removal of charging connector 21 from inlet 12, the SOC (State of Charge) reaching a predetermined value (e.g., 100%), or the departure of electric vehicle 10 from a charging facility. If charging is complete ("Yes" in S15), the process proceeds to step S16. If charging is not complete ("No" in S15), the process ends.

[0093] In step S16, the ECU 500 stores the total of the current accumulated time and the time count of the timer 505 as the updated accumulated time in the memory 502, etc. The accumulated time is the accumulated value of the time the water pumps (131, 171) are driven while the flow paths 170a and 130a are connected.

[0094] That is, the accumulated time is the sum of the first accumulated time during which degassing treatment A is performed and the second accumulated time during which the water pumps (131, 171) are driven while flow paths 170a and 130a are connected while the electric vehicle 10 is performing controls other than charging. The first accumulated time is the accumulated value of the time count of timer 505. The second accumulated time will be described later. Controls other than charging include, for example, driving control of the electric vehicle 10 and control of the air conditioner, audio system, etc. using power from an external power source (such as EVSE 20) while the electric vehicle 10 is connected to the charging connector 21.

[0095] Furthermore, in step S16, the ECU 500 clears the time count of the timer 505. Furthermore, the ECU 500 turns off the purge execution flag and the purge completion flag. Thus, the purge process A stops (ends). Thereafter, the process ends.

[0096] Figure 8 FIG2 is a second diagram showing a control flow executed by the ECU 500 (processor 501) according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 The control flow shown may also be executed (started) for every predetermined period (for example, 1 second).

[0097] In step S21, ECU 500 determines whether the degassing execution flag is off. In other words, ECU 500 determines whether degassing process A is not being executed. If the degassing execution flag is off ("Yes" in S21), the process proceeds to step S22. If the degassing execution flag is on ("No" in S21), the process ends.

[0098] In step S22, ECU 500 determines whether flow path 170a and flow path 130a are connected and whether water pump (131 or 171) is being driven. Specifically, ECU 500 determines whether degassing process A is not being performed, while also determining whether degassing is being performed in each of flow paths 170a and 130a. If the answer is "yes" in step S22, the process proceeds to step S23. If the answer is "no" in step S22, the process ends.

[0099] In step S23, the ECU 500 uses the timer 506 (see Figure 2) counts the time during which flow path 170a and flow path 130a are connected and water pump (131 or 171) is driven (hereinafter referred to as the connection time). The counted connection time is stored in memory 502 or the like. The process then terminates. The connection time is an example of the second accumulated time.

[0100] Figure 9 FIG3 is a diagram showing a control flow executed by the ECU 500 according to the first embodiment. Figure 9 The control flow shown may also be executed (started) for every predetermined period (for example, 1 second).

[0101] In step S31, ECU 500 determines whether electric vehicle 10 is in the Ready OFF state (not drivable). Specifically, ECU 500 determines whether electric vehicle 10 is in the Ready OFF state and the ignition power is on (IGON) (system startup). If electric vehicle 10 is in the Ready OFF state ("YES" in S31), the process proceeds to step S32. If electric vehicle 10 is in the Ready OFF state ("NO" in S31), the process ends.

[0102] In step S32, ECU 500 calculates the current accumulated time and the connection time (see Figure 8 The total value of S23) is stored in the memory 502 as the updated cumulative time.

[0103] In step S33 , ECU 500 clears the connection time information to 0. Specifically, ECU 500 deletes the connection time information from memory 502 or the like.

[0104] In step S34, ECU 500 determines whether the cumulative time calculated in step S32 exceeds a predetermined time t2 (e.g., 80 hours). Specifically, ECU 500 determines whether the cumulative time during which the water pump (131 or 171) is driven while flow path 130a and flow path 170a are connected exceeds predetermined time t2. If the cumulative time exceeds predetermined time t2 ("Yes" in S34), the process proceeds to step S35. If the cumulative time is less than predetermined time t2 ("No" in S34), the process ends. Predetermined time t2 is an example of a "second predetermined time" in the present disclosure.

[0105] In step S35, the ECU 500 turns on the degassing completion flag. Figure 7As can be seen from step S1, after the degassing completion flag turns on, the degassing process A is not executed (limited execution) in the thermal management system 1. In addition, the ECU 500 clears the accumulated time information calculated in step S32. Specifically, the ECU 500 deletes the accumulated time information from the memory 502 or the like.

[0106] Figure 10 FIG4 is a fourth diagram showing a control flow executed by the ECU 500 according to the first embodiment. Figure 10 The control flow shown may also be executed (started) for every predetermined period (for example, 1 second).

[0107] In step S41, ECU 500 determines whether the heat medium circulating in electric vehicle 10 (heat management circuit 100) has been replaced. For example, ECU 500 may determine whether the heat medium has been replaced based on information input to electric vehicle 10 when the heat medium is replaced by a dealer (information indicating that the heat medium replacement is complete). If the heat medium has been replaced ("Yes" in S41), the process proceeds to step S42. If the heat medium has not been replaced ("No" in S41), the process ends.

[0108] In step S42, the ECU 500 turns off the degassing completion flag. Figure 7 As can be seen from step S1 , after the degassing completion flag is turned off, the thermal management system 1 becomes capable of executing the degassing process A. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0109] As described above, in the first embodiment, when the electric vehicle 10 begins charging with the flow path 130a and the flow path 170a disconnected, the thermal management system 1 connects the flow path 130a and the flow path 170a using the five-way valve 180 during charging and drives the water pumps (131, 171), thereby performing a degassing process A on the flow paths 130a and 170a. This prevents bubbles from entering (or remaining in) the flow paths 130a and 170a. As a result, the battery 173 and the PCU 133 can be efficiently cooled. Furthermore, by preventing the water pumps (131, 171) from being driven while bubbles are present (remain), the load on the water pumps (131, 171) can be reduced. Furthermore, by performing degassing during charging, bubbles can be prevented from remaining when the electric vehicle 10 begins traveling. As a result, restrictions on the use (travel) of the electric vehicle 10 after charging is completed can be avoided.

[0110] [Second embodiment]

[0111] Next, refer to Figures 11 to 14, which describes the second embodiment of the present disclosure. The thermal management system 2 of the second embodiment is different from the thermal management system 1 of the above-mentioned first embodiment that can only perform the degassing process A, and can also perform the degassing process B. It is assumed that the same reference numerals are added to the same structures as those in the above-mentioned first embodiment, and repeated descriptions are not made.

[0112] Figure 11 FIG. is an example showing the overall structure of the thermal management system 2. The thermal management system 2 includes an ECU 510 instead of the ECU 500 of the above-mentioned first embodiment.

[0113] The ECU 510 controls the thermal management circuit 100. The ECU 510 includes a processor 511, a memory 512, a storage device 503, an interface 504, a timer 515, and a timer 506.

[0114] <Control Flow of ECU>

[0115] Next, refer to Figures 12 to 14 , which describes the control flow of the ECU 510 (processor 511). Figure 12 The shown control flow can also be executed (started) for each predetermined period (for example, 1 second). In addition, for the same processes as those in the above-mentioned first embodiment, the descriptions may be simplified or omitted.

[0116] In steps S51 to S53, the same processes as steps S1 to S3 of Figure 7 are respectively executed. When it is determined in step S53 that the degassing execution flag is on (in S53, "yes"), the process proceeds to step S59. When it is determined in step S53 that the degassing execution flag is off (in S53, "no"), the process proceeds to step S54.

[0117] In step S54, the ECU 510 determines whether the degassing execution flag 2 is off. When the degassing execution flag 2 is on, the degassing process (hereinafter referred to as "degassing process B") is executed after the charging of the battery 173 is completed. The degassing process B is a process of degassing after charging through the same circuit as when performing the degassing process A. In addition, the degassing process B is an example of the "second degassing process" and the "third degassing process" of the present disclosure. When the degassing execution flag 2 is off (in S54, "yes"), the process proceeds to step S55. When the degassing execution flag 2 is on (in S54, "no"), the process ends.

[0118] In step S55, the same process as step S4 of Figure 7 is performed. When it is in the charging state (in S55, "yes"), the process proceeds to step S56. When it is not in the charging state (in S55, "no"), the process ends.

[0119] In step S56, it is determined whether the temperature of the battery 173 (the detection value of the temperature sensor 176) is lower than the predetermined temperature T3 (for example, 35°C). When the temperature of the battery 173 is lower than the predetermined temperature T3 ("Yes" in S56), the process proceeds to step S57. When the temperature of the battery 173 is higher than the predetermined temperature T3 ("No" in S56), the process proceeds to step S58. The predetermined temperature T3 in step S56 may also be different from the predetermined temperature T1 in step S6. In addition, the predetermined temperature T3 in step S56 is an example of the "third predetermined temperature" of the present disclosure. In addition, the temperature of the battery 173 in step S56 means the temperature of the battery 173 when charging starts.

[0120] In step S57 , the ECU 510 turns on the purge execution flag, and then the process proceeds to step S59 .

[0121] In step S58, the ECU 510 turns on the purge execution flag 2. Thus, the purge execution flag is turned off, while the purge execution flag 2 is turned on.

[0122] In step S59, Figure 7 The same process as step S6 is performed. If the temperature of battery 173 is lower than predetermined temperature T4 ("Yes" in S59), the process proceeds to step S60. If the temperature of battery 173 is higher than predetermined temperature T4 ("No" in S59), the process proceeds to step S61. Note that predetermined temperature T4 in step S59 is an example of the "first predetermined temperature" in the present disclosure.

[0123] In step S60, the ECU 510 uses the timer 515 (see Figure 11 ) time counting operation. In addition, when the time counting by the timer 515 has already started, the ECU 510 continues the time counting by the timer 515. Next, the process proceeds to step S63.

[0124] In step S61 , the ECU 510 turns off the purge execution flag. The process then proceeds to step S62 .

[0125] In step S62, ECU 510 stops the time counting by timer 515. If the time counting by timer 515 has already stopped, ECU 510 maintains the stopped state of the time counting by timer 515. Next, the process proceeds to step S63.

[0126] In step S63, ECU 510 determines whether the time counted by timer 515 is greater than or equal to a predetermined time t3 (e.g., 30 seconds to 1 minute). If the time count is greater than or equal to the predetermined time t3 ("Yes" in S63), the process proceeds to step S64. If the time count is less than or equal to the predetermined time t3 ("No" in S63), the process proceeds to step S65. The predetermined time t3 is an example of the "first predetermined time" in the present disclosure.

[0127] In steps S64 and S65, the Figure 7 The same processing as steps S14 and S15 is performed. Following step S65, the processing proceeds to step S66.

[0128] In step S66, ECU 510 determines whether the degassing completion flag is on. If the degassing completion flag is on ("Yes" in S66), the process proceeds to step S67. If the degassing completion flag is off ("No" in S66), the process proceeds to step S68. The degassing completion flag being off means that the time count in step S63 has been less than the predetermined time t3.

[0129] In step S67, ECU 510 stores the sum of the current accumulated time and the time count of timer 515 as the updated accumulated time in memory 512 or the like. ECU 510 also clears the time count of timer 515. Furthermore, ECU 510 turns off the purge execution flag and the purge completion flag. The process then terminates.

[0130] In step S68, the ECU 510 turns on the purge execution flag 2. The ECU 510 also turns off the purge execution flag and the purge completion flag. The process then ends.

[0131] Figure 13 2 is a second diagram showing a control flow executed by the ECU 510 according to the second embodiment. Figure 13 The control flow shown may also be executed (started) for every predetermined period (for example, 1 second).

[0132] In step S71, it is determined whether the charging of battery 173 is complete. If the charging of battery 173 is complete ("Yes" in S71), the process proceeds to step S72. If the charging of battery 173 is not complete ("No" in S71), the process ends.

[0133] In step S72, ECU 510 determines whether purge execution flag 2 is on. If purge execution flag 2 is on (YES in S72), the process proceeds to step S73. If purge execution flag 2 is off (NO in S72), the process ends.

[0134] In step S73, the ECU 510 uses the timer 515 (see Figure 11 ) time counting action. Specifically, ECU510 counts the time of Figure 12 In the process of degassing, the time count of the degassing process A already counted by the timer 515 is added to the time count of the degassing process B.

[0135] In step S74, ECU 510 determines whether the time counted by timer 515 (the time counted in S73) is equal to or greater than predetermined time t3. If the time counted is equal to or greater than predetermined time t3 ("YES" in S74), the process proceeds to step S74. If the time counted is less than predetermined time t3 ("NO" in S74), the process ends.

[0136] In step S75 , the ECU 510 turns off the purge execution flag 2 and ends the purge process B.

[0137] In step S76 , the ECU 510 stores the total value of the current integrated time and the time count of the timer 515 as the updated integrated time in the memory 512 or the like.

[0138] Figure 14 FIG3 is a diagram showing a control flow executed by the ECU 510 according to the second embodiment. Figure 14 The control flow shown may also be executed (started) for every predetermined period (for example, 1 second). Figure 14 The control flow is the same as that of Figure 8 The control flow is different. In step S121, ECU 510 determines whether each of the degassing execution flag and the degassing execution flag 2 is off. In other words, ECU 510 determines whether each of the degassing processes A and B is not being executed. If each of the degassing execution flag and the degassing execution flag 2 is off ("Yes" in S121), the process proceeds to step S22. If either the degassing execution flag or the degassing execution flag 2 is on ("No" in S121), the process ends.

[0139] Although detailed description and illustration are omitted, the ECU 510 executes the first embodiment described above. Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 Controls shown.

[0140] Note that other configurations and processes are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

[0141] <Modification of Thermal Management System>

[0142] In the first and second embodiments, the communication mode of the heat management circuit 100 is controlled by the five-way valve 180 , but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A switching valve other than the five-way valve 180 may be used.

[0143] <First Modification>

[0144] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a heat management system 3 (heat management circuit 200 ) as a first modified example of the first and second embodiments.

[0145] Thermal management system 3 includes thermal management circuit 200. Thermal management circuit 200 includes, for example, a chiller circuit 210, a chiller 220, a radiator circuit 230, a refrigeration cycle 240, a condenser 250, a drive unit circuit 260, a battery circuit 270, and an eight-way valve 280. Thermal management circuit 200 is controlled by ECU 520. Eight-way valve 280 is an example of a "switching device" in the present disclosure.

[0146] The chiller circuit 210 includes a water pump (W / P) 211. The chiller 220 is connected to (shared with) both the chiller circuit 210 and the refrigeration cycle 240.

[0147] Radiator circuit 230 includes radiator 231. Refrigeration cycle 240 includes, for example, compressor 241, solenoid valve 242, solenoid valves 244A, 244B, 245, and 246, evaporator 247, check valve 248, and accumulator 249. Condenser 250 includes water-cooled condenser 251 and air-cooled condenser 252. Water-cooled condenser 251 is connected to both refrigeration cycle 240 and radiator circuit 230.

[0148] The drive unit circuit 260 includes, for example, a water pump 261, an SPU 262, a PCU 263, an oil cooler 264, a reserve tank 265, and a heat medium temperature sensor 266. In addition, a variable speed drive axle may be provided to the drive unit circuit 260 instead of the oil cooler 264. In addition, the PCU 263 and the oil cooler 264 (or the variable speed drive axle) may be concentrated to provide an E-Axle. In addition, the PCU 263 and the oil cooler 264 are devices that can generate driving force supplied to the electric vehicle. The PCU 263 and the oil cooler 264 are an example of the "first drive device" of the present disclosure. In addition, the water pump 261 is an example of the "pump" of the present disclosure.

[0149] The battery circuit 270 includes, for example, an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) 271, a battery 272, and a temperature sensor 273. The battery 272 is an example of a "first power storage device" in the present disclosure.

[0150] The eight-way valve 280 includes eight ports P11 to P18 and is connected to the chiller circuit 210 , the radiator circuit 230 , the drive unit circuit 260 , and the battery circuit 270 .

[0151] The heat medium circulating in the chiller circuit 210 flows through a path of the eight-way valve 280 (port P13 ) - the water pump 211 - the chiller 220 - the eight-way valve 280 (port P15 ).

[0152] Water pump 211 circulates the heat medium within chiller circuit 210 in accordance with control commands from ECU 520. Chiller 220 exchanges heat between the heat medium circulating in chiller circuit 210 and the heat medium circulating in refrigeration cycle 240. Eight-way valve 280 switches the path to the destination of connection to chiller circuit 210 in accordance with control commands from ECU 520. Path switching by eight-way valve 280 will be described in detail later.

[0153] The heat medium circulating in radiator circuit 230 flows through either a first path, which runs from eight-way valve 280 (port P16) to water-cooled condenser 251, to radiator 231, and then to eight-way valve 280 (port P17), or a second path, which runs from eight-way valve 280 (port P16) to water-cooled condenser 251, to bypass path 230b, and then to eight-way valve 280 (port P17). Rotating eight-way valve 280 switches between the first and second paths. Radiator 231 is located downstream of the air intake grille (not shown) and performs heat exchange between the heat medium and the vehicle's external air.

[0154] The heat medium (gas-phase refrigerant or liquid-phase refrigerant) circulating in the refrigeration cycle 240 flows through any of the following first to fourth paths. The first path is the path from compressor 241 to solenoid valve 244A to air-cooled condenser 252 to check valve 248 to solenoid valve (expansion valve) 245 to evaporator 247 to accumulator 249 to compressor 241. The second path is the path from compressor 241 to solenoid valve 244A to air-cooled condenser 252 to check valve 248 to solenoid valve (expansion valve) 246 to chiller 220 to accumulator 249 to compressor 241. The third path is the path from compressor 241 to solenoid valve 244B to water-cooled condenser 251 to solenoid valve (expansion valve) 245 to evaporator 247 to accumulator 249 to compressor 241. The fourth path is a path of compressor 241 - electromagnetic valve 244B - water-cooled condenser 251 - electromagnetic valve 246 - chiller 220 - accumulator 249 - compressor 241 .

[0155] 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 244 (244A, 244B) switch the flow of gas-phase refrigerant discharged from compressor 241 between water-cooled condenser 251 and air-cooled condenser 252 in accordance with control commands from ECU 520. Water-cooled condenser 251 exchanges heat with the gas-phase refrigerant discharged from compressor 241 and the heat medium flowing through radiator circuit 230. Air-cooled condenser 252 exchanges heat with the air introduced into the vehicle interior, producing 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-phase refrigerant into chiller 220 in accordance with control commands from ECU 520. The electromagnetic valves 245 and 246 also have the function of expanding the liquid refrigerant. The accumulator 249 is a device that removes the liquid refrigerant from the gas-liquid mixed state refrigerant, and prevents the liquid refrigerant from being sucked into the compressor 241 when the refrigerant is not completely vaporized by the vaporizer 247.

[0156] The heat medium (coolant) circulating in the drive unit circuit 260 flows through the path of the eight-way valve 280 (port P18) - reservoir tank 265 - water pump 261 - SPU 262 - PCU 263 - oil cooler 264 - eight-way valve 280 (port P12).

[0157] The water pump 261 circulates the heat medium in the drive unit circuit 260 according to the control instructions from the ECU 520. The SPU 262 controls the charging and discharging of the battery 272 according to the control instructions from the ECU 520. The PCU 263 converts the DC power supplied from the battery 272 into AC power according to the control instructions from the ECU 520, and supplies the AC power to the 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. In addition, the heat generated by supplying power to the stator without rotating the rotor of the motor and the heat medium circulating in the drive unit circuit 260 can also be heat exchanged.

[0158] The SPU 262, PCU 263, and oil cooler 264 are cooled by the heat medium circulating in the drive unit circuit 260. The reserve tank 265 stores a portion of the heat medium in the drive unit circuit 260 (heat medium overflowing due to pressure increase) to maintain the pressure and amount of the heat medium in the drive unit circuit 260.

[0159] Heat medium temperature sensor 266 detects the temperature of the heat medium in flow path 260a, described later, where PCU 263 and other components are installed. Specifically, heat medium temperature sensor 266 detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing between oil cooler 264 and eight-way valve 280 (on the downstream side of oil cooler 264). Heat medium temperature sensor 266 may also detect the temperature of the heat medium between PCU 263 and oil cooler 264, for example.

[0160] The heat medium (coolant) circulating in the battery circuit 270 flows through a path of the eight-way valve 280 (port P11 )-ADAS 271 -battery 272 -eight-way valve 280 (port P14 ).

[0161] ADAS 271 includes, for example, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Automatic Speed ​​Limiter (ASL), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Pre-Crash Safety (PCS), and Lane Departure Alert (LDA). Battery circuit 270 may also include an Autonomous Driving System (ADS) in addition to ADAS 271. Battery 272 supplies driving power to the motor built into the transaxle. A temperature sensor 273 detects the temperature of battery 272.

[0162] like Figure 16As shown, the chiller 220 is provided in the flow path 210a of the chiller circuit 210. The flow path 210a is a flow path connecting the port P13 and the port P15 of the eight-way valve 280.

[0163] Radiator 231 is provided in flow path 230a of radiator circuit 230. Flow path 230a also includes a bypass path 230b that bypasses radiator 231. Bypass path 230b is provided to connect the portion between water-cooled condenser 251 and radiator 231 to eight-way valve 280. When heat medium flows through bypass path 230b, heat medium does not flow through radiator 231. Similarly, when heat medium flows through radiator 231, heat medium does not flow through bypass path 230b.

[0164] Water pump 261, SPU 262, PCU 263, oil cooler 264, and reserve tank 265 (in Figure 16 The SPU 262 and oil cooler 264 (not shown) are provided in a flow path 260a of the drive unit circuit 260. The flow path 260a connects port P18 and port P12 of the eight-way valve 280. The flow path 260a is an example of a "second flow path" in the present disclosure.

[0165] The battery 272 is provided in the flow path 270a of the battery circuit 270. The flow path 270a is a flow path connecting the port P11 and the port P14 of the eight-way valve 280. The flow path 270a is an example of the "first flow path" in the present disclosure.

[0166] <Connectivity Mode>

[0167] Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 The first and second communication modes using the eight-way valve 280 are shown in FIG. Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 Example shown.

[0168] like Figure 16As shown, in the first communication mode, a path is formed in the eight-way valve 280 that connects port P11 and port P15. In addition, in the first communication mode, a path is formed in the eight-way valve 280 that connects port P14 and port P13. In addition, in the first communication mode, a path is formed in the eight-way valve 280 that connects port P17 and port P18. In addition, in the first communication mode, a path is formed in the eight-way valve 280 that connects port P12 and port P16. In addition, in the first communication mode, the radiator 231 and port P17 of the eight-way valve 280 are connected through the flow path 230a. As described above, in the first communication mode, the flow path 270a and the flow path 260a are disconnected. In addition, Figure 16 The first communication mode shown is the same as the first communication mode of the first embodiment described above (see Figure 4 ) corresponding loop mode.

[0169] like Figure 17 As shown, in the second communication mode, a path is formed in the eight-way valve 280 that connects port P11 and port P12. In addition, in the second communication mode, a path is formed in the eight-way valve 280 that connects port P14 and port P18. In addition, in the second communication mode, a path is formed in the eight-way valve 280 that connects port P13 and port P17. In addition, in the second communication mode, a path is formed in the eight-way valve 280 that connects port P15 and port P16. In addition, in the second communication mode, the radiator 231 and port P17 of the eight-way valve 280 are connected through the flow path 230a. As described above, in the second communication mode, the flow path 270a and the flow path 260a are connected. That is, Figure 17 The second communication mode shown is the same as the second communication mode of the second embodiment described above (see Figure 5 ) corresponding loop mode.

[0170] The thermal management system 3 is similar to the thermal management system 1 of the first embodiment described above. In the state where the flow path 270a and the flow path 260a are disconnected (see Figure 16 ) starts charging an electric vehicle (not shown), the eight-way valve 280 is used to connect the flow path 270a and the flow path 260a during the charging, and the water pump 261 is driven to perform the degassing process A on the flow paths 270a and 260a. Furthermore, the control flow of the first or second embodiment can also be applied to the control flow of the degassing process in the first modification.

[0171] <Modification of the First Modification>

[0172] In the first modification, the example of connecting the flow path 270a and the flow path 260a in the second communication mode is shown, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Figure 18As shown, as a second communication pattern, the flow path 270a, the flow path 260a, the flow path 230a (or the bypass path 230b), and the flow path 210a may be connected.

[0173] In addition, if Figure 19 As shown, as a second communication mode, flow path 270a, flow path 260a, and flow path 210a may be connected. In this case, flow path 230a (and bypass path 230b) are disconnected from the other flow paths. In addition, although not shown, as a second communication mode, flow path 270a, flow path 260a, and flow path 230a (or bypass path 230b) may be connected, and flow path 210a is disconnected from the other flow paths.

[0174] In addition, the combination of the first communication mode and the second communication mode is not limited to the above examples. Figure 17 or Figure 19 The circuit described is the first connection mode, and Figure 18 The circuit shown is the second communication mode. Figure 17 The circuit described is the first connection mode and Figure 18 or Figure 19 The circuit described is the second communication mode.

[0175] <Second Modification>

[0176] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a heat management system 4 (heat management circuit 300 ) as a second modified example of the first and second embodiments.

[0177] The heat management circuit 300 includes a heat medium circuit 310 containing a heat medium (water, etc.) and a refrigeration circuit 320 containing a working medium (water, a medium with a lower boiling point than water, etc.).

[0178] The refrigeration circuit 320 includes a compressor 321 , a condenser 322 , a first expansion valve 323 , an in-vehicle evaporator 324 , a second expansion valve 325 , a chiller 326 , a circulation flow path 350 , and an in-vehicle evaporator bypass flow path 351 .

[0179] Compressor 321 compresses the working medium. Condenser 322 condenses the working medium discharged from compressor 321. 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 (the interior of the vehicle).

[0180] The circulation flow path 350 is a flow path through which the working medium circulates, and the circulation flow path 350 sequentially connects the compressor 321 , the condenser 322 , the first expansion valve 323 , and the in-vehicle evaporator 324 .

[0181] The in-vehicle evaporator bypass flow path 351 is connected to the circulation flow path 350 so as to bypass the in-vehicle evaporator 324 . The second expansion valve 325 is provided in the in-vehicle evaporator bypass flow path 351 .

[0182] The refrigeration circuit 320 also includes a manifold 327 , a receiver-drier 328 , and an internal heat exchanger 329 .

[0183] Manifold 327 is provided in circulation flow path 350. Receiver-drier 328 is connected to manifold 327. Internal heat exchanger 329 is connected to a portion of circulation flow path 350 upstream of first expansion valve 323 and a portion of circulation flow path 350 downstream of in-vehicle evaporator 324.

[0184] Next, the heat medium circuit 310 will be described. Heat medium circuit 310 includes a first circuit 311, a second circuit 312, a flow path 313, a radiator 313a, a reserve tank 313b, a flow path 314, a chiller 326, a flow path 315, and a five-way valve 330. Five-way valve 330 has ports P21 to P25. Five-way valve 330 is an example of a "switching device" in the present disclosure.

[0185] First circuit 311 includes flow path 311a, battery 311b, water pump 311c, and temperature sensor 311d. First circuit 311 is formed by flow path 311a and any of flow paths 313-315. Water pump 311c and battery 311b are examples of a "pump" and a "second power storage device," respectively, as used herein. Flow path 311a is an example of a "first flow path" as used herein.

[0186] Flow path 311a is the flow path through which the heat medium flows. Flow path 311a connects the water pump 311c and port P22 of the five-way valve 330. Battery 311b is connected to flow path 311a so as to exchange heat with the heat medium flowing through flow path 311a. In other words, battery 311b is in thermal contact with flow path 311a. Water pump 311c is provided in flow path 311a. Temperature sensor 311d detects the temperature of battery 311b.

[0187] Second circuit 312 includes flow path 312a, water pump 312b, a drive device, and temperature sensor 312i. Second circuit 312 is formed by flow path 312a and any of flow paths 313 to 315. Water pump 312b and flow path 312a are examples of a "pump" and a "first flow path," respectively, as used herein.

[0188] The flow path 312a is a flow path through which the heat medium flows. The flow path 312a is a flow path that connects the water pump 312b and the port P21 of the five-way valve 330. The water pump 312b is provided in the flow path 312a.

[0189] The drive device is a device that can generate driving force supplied to the electric vehicle. The drive device is connected to the flow path 312a in a manner that performs heat exchange with the heat medium flowing through the flow path 312a. That is, the drive device is in thermal contact with the flow path 312a. The drive device is connected to the portion of the flow path 312a downstream of the water pump 312b. The drive device includes a front inverter 312c, a front motor 312d, a DCDC converter 312e, a rear inverter 312f, and a rear motor 312g. An ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System)-ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 312h is connected to the flow path 312a. In addition, the above-mentioned drive device is an example of the "second drive device" disclosed in the present invention.

[0190] The temperature sensor 312i detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing through the second circuit 312 (flow path 312a). Specifically, the temperature sensor 312i detects the temperature of the heat medium immediately after flowing through the drive device (immediately before flowing into the five-way valve 330).

[0191] The flow path 313 is a flow path through which the heat medium flows. The radiator 313a and the reservoir tank 313b are provided in the flow path 313. The flow path 313 is an example of the "second flow path" in the present disclosure.

[0192] Flow path 314 is a flow path through which heat medium flows. Chiller 326 is connected to flow path 314 and in-vehicle evaporator bypass flow path 351. Chiller 326 exchanges heat between the heat medium flowing through flow path 314 and the working medium flowing through in-vehicle evaporator bypass flow path 351.

[0193] The five-way valve 330 can switch the connection states of the flow path 311 a , the flow path 312 a , the flow path 313 , the flow path 314 , and the flow path 315 .

[0194] like Figure 20 As shown, one end of the flow path 311a is connected to the port P22 of the five-way valve 330. The heat medium flowing through the flow path 311a flows from the port P22 into the five-way valve 330. The other end of the flow path 311a is connected to the water pump 311c.

[0195] One end of the flow path 312a is connected to the port P21 of the five-way valve 330. The heat medium flowing through the flow path 312a flows from the port P21 into the five-way valve 330. The other end of the flow path 312a is connected to the water pump 312b.

[0196] One end of the flow path 313 is connected to the port P25 of the five-way valve 330. The heat medium flowing out of the port P25 flows through the flow path 313. The other end 313c of the flow path 313 is connected to the branch portion 340.

[0197] One end of the flow path 314 is connected to the port P24 of the five-way valve 330. The heat medium flowing out of the port P24 flows through the flow path 314. The other end of the flow path 314 is connected to the branch portion 341.

[0198] One end of flow path 315 is connected to port P23 of five-way valve 330. The heat medium flowing out of port P23 flows through flow path 315. The other end of flow path 315 is connected to branch portion 342. Branch portion 341 is provided between branch portions 340 and 342.

[0199] As described above, the flow path 311 a and the flow path 312 a are connected to the five-way valve 330 in parallel with each other.

[0200] The five-way valve 330 can switch the thermal management circuit 300 between a heating mode in which the battery 311 b is heated, a cooling mode in which the battery 311 b is cooled, a vehicle interior cooling mode, a vehicle interior heating mode, or a combination thereof. The five-way valve 330 is switched by the ECU 530 .

[0201] Figure 20 An example of the first communication mode of the heat management circuit 300 is shown. In the first communication mode, ports P21, P22, and P24 are open, ports P23 and P25 are closed, and the water pumps 311c and 312b are driven.

[0202] In the first communication mode, the heat medium flowing from port P24 of five-way valve 330 into flow path 314 is branched at branch portion 341, flowing into flow paths 311a and 312a. The heat medium pressurized by water pump 312b exchanges heat with the drive device before flowing into port P21 of five-way valve 330. The heat medium pressurized by water pump 311c exchanges heat with battery 311b before flowing into port P22 of five-way valve 330. In the first communication mode, the heat medium does not pass through reservoir tank 313b, so degassing is not performed in flow paths 311a and 312a.

[0203] Figure 21An example of the second communication mode of the heat management circuit 300 is shown. In the second communication mode, ports P21, P22, and P25 are open, ports P23 and P24 are closed, and the water pumps 311c and 312b are driven.

[0204] The heat medium flowing out of port P25 of five-way valve 330 into flow path 313 passes through reservoir tank 313b, branches at branching portion 340, and flows into flow paths 311a and 312a.

[0205] The thermal management system 4 is similar to the first embodiment described above, in a state where the flow path 311a, the flow path 312a and the flow path 313 are disconnected (see Figure 20 ) starts charging of an electric vehicle (not shown), the flow path 311a, the flow path 312a and the flow path 313 are connected by the five-way valve 330 during the charging operation (see Figure 21 ) and drives the water pumps (311c, 312b), thereby performing degassing treatment on the flow path 311a, the flow path 312a, and the flow path 313. In addition, the control flow of the first or second embodiment can also be applied to the control flow of the degassing treatment in the second modification.

[0206] <Modification of Modification 2>

[0207] In the second modification, the example of connecting the flow path 311a, the flow path 312a, and the flow path 313 in the second communication mode is shown, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Figure 22 As shown in FIG. 1 , as a second communication mode, the flow path 311a, the flow path 312a, the flow path 313, and the flow path 314 may be connected. Figure 23 As shown, as a second communication pattern, the flow path 311 a , the flow path 312 a , the flow path 313 , the flow path 314 , and the flow path 315 may be connected.

[0208] Although not shown in the figure, as a second communication pattern, one or two of the flow path 311 a , the flow path 312 a , the flow path 314 , and the flow path 315 may be connected to the flow path 313 .

[0209] In addition, the combination of the first communication mode and the second communication mode is not limited to the above examples. Figure 21 The circuit described is the first connection mode and Figure 22 or Figure 23 The circuit shown is the second communication mode. Figure 22 The circuit described is the first connection mode and Figure 23The circuit described is the second communication mode.

[0210] Furthermore, similarly to the first embodiment, a bypass path for bypassing the battery may be provided in the thermal management circuits of the first and second modified examples.

[0211] <Other Modifications>

[0212] In the first and second embodiments, the thermal management system 1 ( 2 ) is mounted on the electric vehicle 10 , but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The thermal management system may be mounted on electrical equipment other than the electric vehicle (eg, a stationary power storage device).

[0213] While the first and second embodiments above illustrate an example in which the heat medium flow path is switched using a five-way valve 180, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, a six-way valve or a ten-way valve may be used to switch the heat medium flow path. Furthermore, multiple switching valves may be provided.

[0214] In the first and second embodiments described above, the reserve tank 175 is arranged in the flow path 170a where the battery 173 is installed. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A reserve tank may be arranged in the flow path 130a where the drive unit (PCU 133, etc.) is installed instead of in the flow path 170a.

[0215] In the first and second embodiments described above, the degassing process A is performed by connecting the flow path 170a in which the battery 173 is provided and the flow path 130a in which the drive unit (PCU 133, etc.) is provided when the battery 173 is charged. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. The degassing process may also be performed by connecting flow paths other than the two described above when the battery 173 is charged.

[0216] In the first embodiment described above, the bypass path 174 for bypassing the battery 173 is provided in the thermal management circuit 100, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The bypass path 174 for bypassing the battery 173 may not be provided in the thermal management circuit. In this case, the bypass path 174 may not be provided in the thermal management circuit. Figure 7 In addition, in the second embodiment, the processing of steps S10 to S12 can also be performed. Figure 7 The processing corresponding to steps S10 to S12.

[0217] In the first and second embodiments, the degassing process A is stopped when the temperature of the battery 173 reaches or exceeds the predetermined temperature T1. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The degassing process A may be completed (accomplished) independently of the temperature of the battery 173.

[0218] In the first and second embodiments, the degassing process A (B) is not performed when the cumulative degassing time exceeds the predetermined time t2 (upper limit), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0219] In the first and second embodiments, the cumulative time of the degassing treatment is the sum of the cumulative time during charging and the cumulative time during other times. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the cumulative time of the degassing treatment may include only the cumulative time during charging.

[0220] In the second embodiment described above, the degassing process B is performed in each of the following cases: when charging is completed before a predetermined time t1 has elapsed from the start of the degassing process A, and when the temperature of the battery 173 at the start of charging is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature T3. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. The degassing process B may be performed in only one of the above two cases.

[0221] In the first and second embodiments described above, a water pump is provided in each of the flow path 170a and the flow path 130a, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A water pump may be provided in only one of the flow path 170a and the flow path 130a.

[0222] In the first and second embodiments described above, the ECU 500 ( 510 ) includes two timers, and the two timers measure different times, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The ECU may include only one timer.

[0223] Furthermore, the configurations (processing) of the above-described embodiment and each of the above-described modifications may be combined with each other.

[0224] The disclosed embodiments should be considered in all respects as illustrative and non-restrictive. The scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims rather than the description of the above embodiments, and includes all modifications within the scope of the claims and equivalents.

Claims

1. A thermal management system for a rechargeable electrical device, characterized in that: The thermal management system comprises: A first flow path configured to flow a heat medium; A second flow path configured to flow the heat medium; A storage tank is provided in the second flow path; a switching device configured to switch a connection state between the first flow path and the second flow path; a pump configured to circulate the heat medium through each of the first flow path and the second flow path in a state in which the first flow path and the second flow path are connected; and processor, where The processor is configured to connect the first flow path and the second flow path using the switching device and drive the pump when the electrical device starts charging in a state where the first flow path and the second flow path are disconnected, thereby performing a first degassing process on the first flow path and the second flow path.

2. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that The processor is configured to end the first degassing process when the first degassing process continues for a first predetermined time or longer.

3. The thermal management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: a first power storage device configured to exchange heat with a heat medium flowing through one of the first flow path and the second flow path; as well as The first driving device is configured to generate a driving force by exchanging heat with the heat medium flowing through the other of the first flow path and the second flow path.

4. The thermal management system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The processor is configured to stop the first degassing process if the temperature of the first power storage device is equal to or higher than a first predetermined temperature during execution of the first degassing process.

5. The thermal management system according to claim 3, characterized in that: Also includes: a bypass path for bypassing at least a portion of the first flow path where the first power storage device and the heat medium exchange heat, wherein: The processor is configured to flow the heat medium through the bypass path without flowing the heat medium through the portion when the temperature of the heat medium flowing through the second flow path is equal to or higher than a second predetermined temperature during the first degassing process.

6. The thermal management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The processor is configured not to execute the first degassing process when a cumulative time for which the pump is driven in a state in which the first flow path and the second flow path are connected exceeds a second predetermined time.

7. The thermal management system according to claim 6, characterized in that: The accumulated time is a total value of a first accumulated time for executing the first degassing process and a second accumulated time, wherein the second accumulated time is a time during which the pump is driven in a state where the first flow path and the second flow path are connected while control other than charging is executed in the electrical device.

8. The thermal management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The processor is configured to execute the first degassing process when the heat medium flowing through the electrical equipment is replaced in a state where the first degassing process is not executed.

9. The thermal management system according to claim 2, wherein: The processor is configured to connect the first flow path and the second flow path and drive the pump after the completion of charging, thereby performing a second degassing process on the first flow path and the second flow path when the charging is completed before the first predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the first degassing process.

10. The thermal management system according to claim 3, wherein: The processor is configured to connect the first flow path and the second flow path and drive the pump after completion of charging, thereby performing a third degassing process on the first flow path and the second flow path, if the temperature of the first power storage device at the start of charging is equal to or higher than a third predetermined temperature.

11. The thermal management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The switching device includes a five-way valve or an eight-way valve.

12. The thermal management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: heat sink; a second power storage device; as well as The second driving device is configured to generate a driving force, wherein: The radiator is provided in the second flow path, At least one of the second power storage device and the second drive device is configured to exchange heat with the heat medium flowing through the first flow path.

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