Fluid connector suitable for battery cell heat exchange tube and heat exchange device

Abstract

The invention relates to a fluid connector suitable for a heat exchange tube of a battery unit and a heat exchange device, in particular to the fluid connector which is matched with the heat exchange tube of the battery unit. According to the prior art, the heat exchange pipe is a flat pipeline, is usually corrugated, is matched with the side surface of the battery unit, and is supplied with liquid at one end. In contrast, the invention is characterized by a special configuration of two components, with the flat heat exchange tubes interposed therebetween, such that the liquid coolant enters and exits from the sides of the flat heat exchange tubes, in particular in the direction of the upper part of the battery pack, or in the direction of the lower part of the battery pack, or a combination thereof. The configuration of the fluid connectors may also cause the liquid coolant to be supplied through an intermediate point in the direction of extension of the heat exchange tubes. The heat exchange device includes a heat exchange tube and a fluid connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of battery thermal management, and in particular to a fluid connector and a heat exchange device suitable for a heat exchange tube of a battery unit. Background Art

[0002] One of the most intensively developed areas of this technology is batteries, and more specifically, vehicle batteries.

[0003] One of the biggest challenges facing electric vehicles is ensuring that batteries provide sufficient range while being as lightweight and compact as possible. This requires precise cooling or heating of battery cells to achieve the most compact battery packaging.

[0004] Due to the high heat exchange requirements, the most efficient heat transfer is achieved through a medium suitable for transferring large amounts of heat, such as a liquid coolant. To achieve this, the liquid coolant must be supplied to the heat exchange tubes and discharged after passing through the heat exchange tubes. This requires a supply port for the liquid coolant flow and another return port.

[0005] When used to cool a battery pack, the supply liquid coolant is a relatively cool fluid, while the return liquid coolant, after removing heat from the batteries through the heat exchange tubes, has a higher temperature. When the battery pack needs to be heated, the opposite occurs: the liquid coolant temperature must be higher than the batteries being heated. Therefore, in this case, the return liquid coolant temperature is lower than the supply liquid temperature.

[0006] Heat exchange tubes are available in a variety of configurations.

[0007] Heat exchange tubes are typically flat in cross-section and have multiple internal channels, creating a fluid-conducting effect across their entire cross-section. This internal structure allows any location on the tube to have the same heat exchange efficiency as any other location on the flat structure, particularly in the transverse direction of the tube's main plane.

[0008] The flat structure is also most suitable for matching the side of the battery. Since the side is usually cylindrical, the corrugated structure is more common, and each corrugation contacts the battery with a large contact area.

[0009] Another interesting configuration is to place flat heat exchange tubes beneath the battery cells, acting as a lower support and cooling the bottom of the battery. This configuration can also be used when the battery cells are prismatic and the flat heat exchange tubes contact one of the battery surfaces, which lies flat relative to gravity.

[0010] For the liquid flow through the heat exchange tube, as an example, the entire heat exchange tube can transmit liquid coolant in one direction. In this configuration, a first end of the heat exchange tube is suitable for supplying liquid coolant, and the return flow is collected at the other end.

[0011] In this configuration, a heat exchange tube has a supply flow divider on one end and a receiving flow divider for return flow on the other. When multiple heat exchange tubes are used, they are arranged substantially in parallel, with the battery cells positioned between them. Furthermore, this orientation of the heat exchange tubes allows for multiple supply flow dividers to be positioned on the same side, interconnected, while multiple receiving flow dividers for return flow are located on the opposite side, also interconnected.

[0012] The liquid supply flow dividers communicated with each other supply liquid through the liquid supply port, while the receiving flow dividers for collecting reflux are communicated with each other and deliver the liquid flow to the output port. The liquid supply port and the output port are far away from each other.

[0013] Another configuration is also more common, in which the flow divider for the liquid supply and the flow divider for the return flow are located at the same end of the heat exchange tube. In this case, the liquid flow in the heat exchange tube is arranged in a U shape.

[0014] One method of achieving this U-shaped arrangement is to provide a first set of channels for liquid supply and a second set of return channels within the heat exchange tube. A splitter is also provided at the tube end opposite the supply and return splitters. Its primary function is to connect the supply and return channels to each other, allowing the liquid flow to change direction and flow into the return channels.

[0015] In other common configurations, the heat exchange tubes are fed with liquid through a metal manifold welded in the middle. Summary of the Invention

[0016] The present invention proposes a fluid connector solution that overcomes these limitations and is configured to require few manufacturing steps and can be manufactured from dielectric materials, thereby preventing the propagation of electrical discharges.

[0017] The present invention relates to a fluid connector suitable for a heat exchange tube of a battery unit, and more particularly to a fluid connector matched with a heat exchange tube of a battery unit.

[0018] The fluid device is a component of a heat exchange system that transfers heat through a liquid coolant and can be used to remove heat from the battery cells to prevent them from overheating, or to provide heat when heating is required to prevent the battery cell temperature from falling below a set operating temperature.

[0019] According to the prior art, heat exchange tubes are flat, typically corrugated, pipes that mate with the sides of the battery cells and are supplied with liquid at one end. In contrast, the present invention features a unique two-part construction with the flat heat exchange tube positioned in the middle. This structure allows for liquid coolant to be supplied and returned from the sides of the flat heat exchange tube, specifically from the top or bottom of the battery pack, or a combination of both.

[0020] The configuration of the fluid connector also allows liquid coolant to be supplied through an intermediate point in the extension direction of the cooling tube. A first aspect of the present invention relates to a fluid connector suitable for a heat exchange tube of a battery unit, and more specifically, is matched with the heat exchange tube.

[0021] The heat exchange tube suitable for the fluid connector, more specifically, the heat exchange tube matched with the fluid connector includes the following features:

[0022] The heat exchange tube is adapted to transport a heat transfer fluid and is configured to exchange heat with one or more battery cells.

[0023] The heat exchange tube has a flat structure, is generally confined between two parallel planes, and comprises at least one tube section extending generally in a plane and extending in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction.

[0024] The heat exchange tube comprises one or more longitudinal liquid supply channels on one side thereof and one or more longitudinal return channels on the transversely opposite side.

[0025] Optionally, the heat exchange tube comprises at least one flow divider, the flow divider being in fluid communication with the supply channel or the return channel, or with both channels.

[0026] The flat structure of the heat exchange tube defines a plane, designated P, that extends longitudinally and transversely along the tube as a whole. The longitudinal direction is designated X-X', and the transverse direction is designated Y-Y'. The third dimension is the heat exchange thickness.

[0027] The heat exchange tube may have a corrugated structure, and in this case, the corrugations may fluctuate to both sides of the reference plane P.

[0028] Likewise, it has been pointed out that the heat exchange tube has two groups of channels, at least one supply channel and at least one return channel, wherein, in the transverse direction Y-Y', one group of channels is on one side of the heat exchange tube and the other group of channels is on the other side of the heat exchange tube. In one embodiment, the first group of channels is adjacent to the second group of channels, while in other embodiments, they are separated by an intermediate section, making the heat exchange tube wider in the transverse direction Y-Y'.

[0029] These two groups of passages make the liquid supply flow pass through the first group of passage inside, and make the reflux pass through the second group of passage.Now, a flow diverter can be set at one end, and this flow diverter changes the liquid flow direction, thereby the liquid supply passage is communicated with the reflux passage.

[0030] If the liquid supply to the heat exchange tube occurs at an intermediate point, the liquid supply flow is divided into two liquid flows extending toward both ends of the heat exchange tube, and after changing direction, the two liquid flows form backflows and converge at the intermediate point, or converge near the intermediate point.

[0031] As described above, the first aspect of the present invention relates to a fluid connector suitable for a heat exchange tube, which supplies liquid coolant to the heat exchange tube to form a liquid supply flow and takes away the return liquid coolant.

[0032] The fluid connector comprises a first component and a second component, wherein the first component and the second component are configured such that, in an operating mode, at least one component of a flattened tube section of a heat exchange tube is located between the first component and the second component, wherein:

[0033] - the first component and the second component comprise a first fluid connection structure, the first fluid connection structure of the first component being for a supply flow of liquid, and the first fluid connection structure of the second component being for a return flow;

[0034] - the first component and the second component include a second fluid connection structure adapted to connect to the channel of the heat exchange tube, the second fluid connection structure of the first component being adapted to connect to the liquid supply channel of the heat exchange tube, and the second fluid connection structure of the second component being adapted to connect to the return channel of the heat exchange tube;

[0035] The first fluid connection structure of the first component is in fluid communication with the second fluid connection structure thereof, and the first fluid connection structure of the second component is in fluid communication with the second fluid connection structure thereof.

[0036] That is, one component is responsible for introducing the incoming fluid into the heat exchange tube and is located on one side of the flat heat exchange tube (also on the side of plane P), while the other component is responsible for taking away the return flow from the same heat exchange tube and is located on the opposite side of the heat exchange tube, that is, on the opposite side of the reference plane P. These two components are respectively referred to as the first component and the second component.

[0037] The connection to the heat exchange tubes can be direct or indirect. In a direct connection, each component is directly coupled to the heat exchange tubes, while an indirect connection uses at least one flow divider. In the latter case, the first and second components are located on either side of the at least one flow divider, which supplies the heat exchange tubes with liquid.

[0038] “At least one diverter” is used here because it is either a diverter with two chambers that distinguish the inlets of the supply channel and the return channel, or a diverter with two bodies, one body serving as a diverter for the supply channel and the other body serving as a diverter for the return channel.

[0039] The battery pack, which is composed of a plurality of flat heat exchange tubes and a plurality of battery cells, forms a plane as a whole, wherein the transverse direction YY' is perpendicular to the plane. The plane formed by the battery cells and the heat exchange tubes is marked as plane P2.

[0040] Each component has a so-called first fluid connection structure that allows the supply and return fluid flows to and from the heat exchange tubes along a flow path that is not in the plane P2 of the battery pack.

[0041] The fluid connection structure may be a seat portion of a pipe joint, or a tubular section for connection with a hose or the like, or an access neck of a fluid port.

[0042] Throughout this document, both the first fluid connection structure and the second fluid connection structure are connection interfaces. In one specific embodiment, the fluid connection structure is formed by a support in the fluid transfer region. In other specific embodiments, the fluid connection structure is an interface provided with a pipe joint or a connection fitting to achieve the fluid connection. In these latter embodiments, the interface is a surface having a generally circular cross-section.

[0043] By default, interfaces are oriented perpendicular to the faces that make up the interface. In working mode, it is most common for fluid to flow through the interface in the direction of the fluid connection.

[0044] In one embodiment, the first fluid connection structure of the first component, the first fluid connection structure of the second component, or the two first fluid connection structures are arranged to form an angle of no more than 20° with the plane P, and more preferably, an angle of no more than 15° with the plane P, or an angle of no more than 10° with the plane P, or an angle of no more than 5° with the plane P, or an angle of no more than 3° with the plane P, and more preferably, the direction is located in the plane P.

[0045] That is, specifically, the direction of the first fluid connection structure is not perpendicular to the plane P of the heat exchange tube, and more specifically, in a preferred case, its direction is in the plane P of the heat exchange tube, although it can also be in a limited inclination relative to the plane P, and the direction can be at any angle to the longitudinal direction.

[0046] The preferred direction of the first fluid connection is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction XX' and is contained in the plane P of the flattened heat exchange tubes.

[0047] In operating mode, the first component receives liquid coolant from the first fluid connection and directs it to the second fluid connection, which supplies the supply channel of the heat exchange tube, for example, through a flow divider, if provided. The second component receives return flow from the return channel, either directly or through a flow divider, if provided, and directs the return flow to its first fluid connection.

[0048] That is, in one embodiment based on any of the preceding embodiments, the first fluid connection structure of the first component, the second component, or both is in fluid communication with the second fluid connection structure via the inner cavity.

[0049] The inner cavity is a space between an interface constituting the first fluid connection structure and an interface constituting the second fluid connection structure.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the inner cavity is a region where the flow direction can be changed, thereby minimizing pressure drop. In another embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner cavity is larger than the area of ​​the interface formed by the first fluid connection structure or the second fluid connection structure.

[0051] In this embodiment, fluid communication between the first and second fluid connection structures is achieved through an internal cavity, which adjusts the distance between the second fluid connection structure and the corresponding channel depending on whether the component is the first or second component. Since the supply channel is located on one side of the heat exchange tube relative to the transverse direction Y-Y', and the return channel is located on the other side relative to the same transverse direction Y-Y', the distance between the second fluid connection structure and the first fluid connection structure is different in the first and second components.

[0052] According to the first aspect of the present invention, the second fluid connection structure is directly connected to the channels of the heat exchange tube via a coupler on the side wall of the heat exchange tube, or is connected to the channels of the heat exchange tube via a flow divider. The flow divider distributes the supply liquid flow to different channels or collects the liquid flow of the return channel into the second fluid connection structure.

[0053] In an embodiment based on the above, the first component and the second component include supports adapted to be supported on a surface of the heat exchange tube or on a flow divider of the heat exchange tube in an operating mode. The support of the first component is adapted to be supported on one surface of the heat exchange tube or on the flow divider, and the support of the second component is adapted to be supported on an opposite surface of the heat exchange tube or on an opposite surface of the flow divider.

[0054] In this embodiment, each component includes a support that supports the heat exchange tube or, if a flow divider is provided, the flow divider. When connected to a fixture, the support ensures structural stability. This support, in addition to the support provided by the second fluid connection structure, increases the structural stability of the fluid connector and reduces stress when a fixture is present between any component and the heat exchange tube or, if a flow divider is provided, the flow divider.

[0055] Based on any of the above embodiments, the first component and the second component include fixing means for attaching to each other.

[0056] In this embodiment, the two components are fixed to each other. That is, assuming that the first component and the second component are located on either side of a flat heat exchange tube, the two components place the heat exchange tube between them. By fixing the two components to each other, the connection between each component and the heat exchange tube is improved because this fixing method is conducive to generating tensile stress, which helps to press the second fluid connection structure against the heat exchange tube.

[0057] Based on the aforementioned embodiment, the mutually attached fixing means include a snap-on means.

[0058] A snap-on connection is a quick, reversible connection. Simply applying force from one component to the other—one component exerting force on the other—connects the components. Once established, the connection remains until the reversible snap-on release mechanism is activated. This quick connection ensures rapid assembly, ensuring that each component's second fluid connection and heat exchange tube are connected with minimal movement.

[0059] Based on any of the aforementioned embodiments, the mutually attaching fixing means comprises a threaded connection means.

[0060] Threaded connections are more secure than snap-fit ​​connections. This connection method can be used alone or in combination with snap-fit ​​connections. If two components are already connected by snap-fit ​​connections, threaded connections ensure higher stresses and apply greater pressure to the secondary fluid connection structure of the heat exchange tube or diverter (if present). Preferred fluid connectors feature sealing elements (such as O-rings or elastic elements) that, when compressed, ensure fluid tightness. Threaded connections ensure the stresses required for this compression.

[0061] If the two components are already connected by snap-fitting, the screws are also easy to position.

[0062] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube has a middle member that separates the supply channel from the return channel. The screw is preferably located in the middle member. When the heat exchange tube does not have a middle member, the screw is preferably located in the middle relative to the horizontal direction Y-Y'.

[0063] When screw is positioned at other positions, when connecting first component and second component, screw need not pass the heat exchange tube.For example, can be arranged at intervals on the side edge of flat heat exchange tube.

[0064] Another alternative is to thread the screws through the heat exchange tube in an area that avoids the passage for the liquid coolant.

[0065] Based on any of the above embodiments, the first component, the second component or both include a pipe joint in the first fluid connection structure, the pipe joint is fixed to the first fluid connection structure or serves as an extension component of the first fluid connection structure, and forms a single body with the component.

[0066] As described herein, the first fluid connection structure defines an inlet direction or an outlet direction, which is perpendicular to the interface of the fluid connection structure, or corresponds to the direction of fluid flow in the operating mode. For example, when the first fluid connection structure is an opening on a flat surface, and the fluid flows from a heat exchange tube perpendicular to the surface of the opening, the direction of the fluid connection structure, i.e., the direction of the fluid flow, is also perpendicular to the surface of the opening.

[0067] A pipe fitting is a tubular extension or neck-shaped component suitable for connecting to an accessory such as a flexible pipe. These fittings can be separate components that are fixed to the first fluid connection structure, for example, by threading, welding, gluing, etc., or alternatively, they can be an integral component that forms a single part with the rest of the first or second component. The term "fixed" is considered synonymous with a connection as a final structural state, and therefore the use of the term "fixed" is not limited to the fact that fixing must first occur.

[0068] Based on any of the above embodiments, the direction of the first fluid connection structure is transverse YY' relative to the longitudinal direction XX', wherein the first fluid connection structure of the first component and the first fluid connection structure of the second component have the same direction or opposite directions.

[0069] The battery pack and heat exchange tube assembly extends in two directions, one of which is the longitudinal direction X-X' of the heat exchange tubes. Because the heat exchange tubes are arranged between the batteries, the stack extends perpendicular to the heat exchange tubes. Therefore, the transverse direction Y-Y' of the heat exchange tubes is perpendicular to the plane defined by these two directions, designated as plane P2 above, in which the battery pack and heat exchange tubes extend.

[0070] In this embodiment, the fluid connections are arranged so that the outlets are perpendicular to the principal plane defined by the cells and heat exchange tubes. This allows for easy delivery of liquid coolant to the heat exchange tubes from ports external to the battery pack, eliminating the need to supply liquid to the edges of the cells and heat exchange tubes. As mentioned earlier, the liquid coolant supply requires two ports: one for supplying liquid coolant and one for receiving return liquid coolant. In the final configuration of the battery pack, these ports can be located on either side of the plane defined by the cells and heat exchange tubes, or on both sides of that plane, depending on the circumstances.

[0071] Based on any of the foregoing embodiments, this embodiment is a heat exchange device for a battery cell, comprising:

[0072] - heat exchange tubes, which:

[0073] adapted to carry a heat transfer fluid and configured to exchange heat with one or more battery cells,

[0074] It has a flat structure, is substantially confined between two parallel planes, has at least one section extending substantially in a plane P and extending in a longitudinal direction XX' and a transverse direction YY', and

[0075] It includes one or more longitudinal liquid supply channels on one side thereof and one or more longitudinal return channels on the opposite side in the transverse direction YY'; and

[0076] - A fluid connector according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein:

[0077] The heat exchange tube is located between the first component and the second component;

[0078] The second fluid connection structure of the first component is in fluid communication with the liquid supply channel of the heat exchange tube, and the second fluid connection structure of the second component is in fluid communication with the return channel of the heat exchange tube.

[0079] In this embodiment, the combination of the flat heat exchange tube and the fluid connector formed from the first and second components according to any of the previous embodiments defines a heat exchange device suitable for exchanging heat with one or more battery cells.

[0080] The flat structure of the heat exchange tubes is suitable for stacking the heat exchange tubes and battery cells in a direction perpendicular to the largest surface area of ​​the heat exchange tubes (which defines the flat structure). In other words, the heat exchange tubes extend in a longitudinal direction X-X' that aligns with the wall direction of the multiple battery cells. For example, if the battery cells are cylindrical, a corrugated structure is formed in the same longitudinal direction X-X'; and the transverse direction Y-Y' also covers most of the height of each battery cell. With this configuration, the contact area between the heat exchange tubes and each battery cell is maximized.

[0081] The simplest example of a flat heat exchanger tube is one with no undulations in shape within the reference planes defined by the longitudinal and transverse directions X-X' and Y-Y'. In this case, a square battery with parallel faces can be brought into contact between the two flat surfaces, allowing heat exchange to occur through these two flat surfaces.

[0082] This article also introduces an embodiment in which the battery cell is cylindrical to illustrate that the heat exchange tube can extend in the longitudinal direction XX' and have a shape fluctuation along the longitudinal direction XX', thereby forming a corrugated structure to adapt to the cylindrical shape of the battery cell.

[0083] Another equally effective example is that the battery cell is prismatic, but its surface is not necessarily a prismatic shape with a rectangular base, but can also be a prismatic shape with a polygonal base. For example, the number of sides can exceed four, and the heat exchange tube can have a flat section to ensure the closest possible contact with the surface of the battery cell.

[0084] In this case, the flat heat exchange tube also shows fluctuations in shape, for example, having a periodic extension path and continuously extending in the longitudinal direction XX'. In this embodiment, in a specific embodiment of the extension path, the corrugated shape can be composed of a plurality of straight line segments. Specifically, the ends of each straight line in the plurality of straight line segments are arranged according to a wavy extension path (for example, a sinusoidal extension path). This configuration is particularly suitable when the battery cell is not cylindrical but prismatic, so that each straight line segment is coplanar with one surface of the prism. The extension path of the heat exchange tube is generally complementary or matched to the outer surface of the battery cell in a segmented manner to maintain as large a contact area as possible.

[0085] In another combination embodiment of the flat heat exchange tube and the fluid connector, the heat exchange tube is arranged horizontally at the bottom of the battery cell, or when the battery cell is rotated, their sides are supported on supports formed by the flat heat exchange tubes that are also arranged horizontally. At this time, the flat structure of the heat exchange tube also has beneficial technical effects.

[0086] The stack can consist of alternating heat exchange tubes and multiple arrays of battery cells, or multiple arrays of battery cells. In these configurations, the stack extends perpendicular to both the longitudinal (X-X') and transverse (Y-Y') directions. This third direction and the longitudinal (X-X') direction define a principal plane P2 of the stack of battery cells and heat exchange tubes, which are the primary components of the battery pack. Typically, when operably installed in a vehicle, the principal plane P2 of the battery cells and heat exchange tubes is horizontal relative to gravity.

[0087] Specifically, the configuration of the heat exchange tubes and fluid connectors of this embodiment is suitable for forming a battery pack that extends to form a flat assembly, that is, as shown in the accompanying drawings, extending along a principal plane P2, with multiple heat exchange tubes interposed therein. The provision of the fluid connectors allows liquid coolant to flow in and out in a direction that is non-parallel to the principal plane P2 of the battery pack and heat exchange tubes.

[0088] In addition, this inflow and outflow method can avoid using the ends of the battery pack for liquid supply and return, so the battery pack is more compact, and its installation method cannot be achieved in the prior art.

[0089] Based on any of the aforementioned embodiments, the first component and the second component are attached to each other.

[0090] Typically, battery boxes or other structural members are used to provide fixed attachment for one or more components in an apparatus formed by multiple components. In a stacked arrangement of heat exchange tubes and battery cells, the final dimensions of the battery pack cannot be determined, and depend on the tolerances of each component of the battery pack, the pressure between them during assembly, etc. Therefore, all of these variables affected by such dimensional changes are accumulated, resulting in the final dimensions being different during the same assembly process. If any component (e.g., the first component and the second component) uses a structural element of the battery pack as the only fixed reference point, its overall dimensions cannot be determined, which can lead to serious design issues and subsequent assembly problems.

[0091] In the solution in which the first component and the second component are attached to each other, a strong connection can be established with the heat exchange tube, since the heat exchange tube is located in the middle position and pressure is exerted on the sealing element between the two components and the heat exchange tube or the flow divider, etc., without this pressure being transmitted outside the fluid connector connected to the heat exchange tube.

[0092] Based on any of the above two embodiments, the heat exchange tube includes a flow splitter having two distribution chambers, a first distribution chamber suitable for supply liquid flow, and a second distribution chamber suitable for return liquid flow, which are fluidically separated from each other:

[0093] - a first distribution chamber configured to be in fluid communication with one or more inflow channels, and

[0094] - a second distribution chamber configured to be in fluid communication with one or more return channels;

[0095] The second fluid connection structure of the first component is in communication with the first distribution chamber, and the second fluid connection structure of the second component is in communication with the second distribution chamber.

[0096] The above embodiments describe an optional arrangement in which the first and second components are connected to corresponding channels of the heat exchange tubes via their second fluid connection structures. However, this connection is achieved via a flow divider interposed between the first and second components and the heat exchange tubes. In this case, after the first and second components are fixed, the flat heat exchange tubes are interposed therebetween, and the flow divider is also interposed therebetween. In other words, the heat exchange tubes, including the flow divider, remain interposed between the first and second components.

[0097] In this embodiment with the flow splitter, the flow splitter is either an additional component coupled to the heat exchange tube, or the flow splitter and the heat exchange tube are integrated together to form a single body.

[0098] In this manner, the flow divider is positioned between the heat exchange tube, which includes a supply channel and a return channel, and the fluid connector, which includes the first component and the second component. In this case, according to one embodiment, the flow divider comprises two chambers that are not fluidically connected to each other. One chamber receives liquid coolant from the first component via a second fluid connection structure and distributes it to the supply channel of the heat exchange tube. The other chamber receives liquid coolant from the return channel of the heat exchange tube and transfers the liquid coolant to the second component via its second fluid connection structure.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment, a flow divider is interposed between the first component and the second component.

[0100] Based on any of the above three embodiments, the fluid connector is located in the middle of the heat exchange tube in the longitudinal direction, so that the heat exchange tube extends on both sides of the fluid connector to form two sections, and both are fluidically connected to the fluid connector.

[0101] The most common arrangement of the battery cell cooling tube is to install it at one end of the battery pack formed by the combination of the cooling tube and the battery cell, that is, at one end of the main plane P2 of the battery pack.

[0102] The fluid connector of the first aspect of the present invention does not require that the position must be at one end of the heat exchange tube, but can be set at an intermediate position. This is because it has an intermediate coupling setting and because it provides the possibility of supplying and taking away liquid coolant in an incident, vertical or inclined direction relative to the main plane P2 formed by the battery cell and the heat exchange tube.

[0103] In this arrangement, the fluid connector forms two segments of the heat exchange tube, one on either side of the fluid connector. Each segment forms a U-shaped flow path, with one supply flow and another return flow, interconnected at their ends. The supply port for each segment can be shared, and similarly, the liquid coolant return port for each segment can also be shared.

[0104] When a flow divider is provided, the chamber of the flow divider is in fluid communication with the two segmented channels of the heat exchange tube, one chamber is in fluid communication with the two segmented liquid supply channels, and the other chamber is in fluid communication with the two segmented return channels.

[0105] Based on any of the above three embodiments, the first component and the second component are made of dielectric material, preferably plastic.

[0106] The use of dielectric materials, particularly plastics, eliminates the need for safety covers in environments where electrical potentials can be very high and propagate through fluid circuits. Furthermore, manufacturing with plastics can be cost-effective, and each component can be manufactured in a single molding process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0107] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof, which are given by way of illustrative and non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0108] Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of a heat exchange tube exchanging heat with a battery cell is shown, along with an embodiment of a fluid connector coupled to the heat exchange tube.

[0109] Figure 2 This is a partial enlargement of the above figure, mainly showing the fluid connector connected to the heat exchange tube.

[0110] Figure 3 Shown is a perspective view of two components adapted to be coupled to a heat exchange tube, of the same embodiment, with the heat exchange tube removed for easier viewing.

[0111] Figure 4 A perspective view of the two components in the upper figure is shown with the fasteners unfastened and spaced apart.

[0112] Figure 5 A front view of one of the components coupled to a heat exchange tube is shown.

[0113] Figure 6 1 is an exploded perspective view of two components of the same embodiment, wherein each component, namely the first component and the second component, can be seen separately in this view, as well as the internal elements that are in fluid-tight connection with the heat exchange tubes.

[0114] Figure 7 、 8 These are perspective views of the first component and the second component, respectively, in which the internal structure of each component can be observed.

[0115] Figure 9 、 10 11 and 12 show perspective views of a component connected to a heat exchange tube at the rear. The order of these three figures is, first, as Figure 9 , you can observe the splitter connected to the heat exchange tube; then, as Figure 10 , a section of the heat exchange tube is removed to allow observation of the inlet or outlet of the splitter; then Figure 11 , one of the sheets making up the diverter was removed to allow observation of its internal structure.

[0116] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of two connecting components connected to the heat exchange tube, which allows the inflow and outflow fluid connection structure to be observed.

[0117] Figure 13 The second embodiment is schematically shown in cross section through a heat exchange tube.

[0118] Figure 14 The third embodiment is schematically shown in cross section through a heat exchange tube. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0119] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to a fluid connector D suitable for a heat exchange tube of a battery unit, wherein according to the description of the accompanying drawings, the embodiments are matched and configured for this application.

[0120] Figure 1 A perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein a heat exchange tube 1 is shown adapted to fit multiple cylindrical battery cells. For clarity, these cylindrical battery cells are not shown in the figure. The corrugated surface matches the surface of each battery cell, maximizing the contact area.

[0121] Heat exchange tube 1 comprises a first channel group 1.1 for liquid supply flow, which has a flat structure and is located on one side, and a second channel group 1.2 for return flow, which also has a flat structure and is located on the other side of heat exchange tube 1. Between first channel group 1.1 and second channel group 1.2 is an intermediate member 1.3, which serves to separate them and, in this embodiment, is arranged in a strip, also having a corrugated structure. While the channel groups in this embodiment are described as having a flat structure, this is because the channels are arranged side by side, resulting in an alignment in cross-section; this arrangement is independent of the cross-sectional structure of each channel.

[0122] In general, due to the arrangement of the two channel groups 1.1 and 1.2, and the cross-sectional arrangement with the intermediate member 1.3, the heat exchange tube 1 has a flat structure. Furthermore, the heat exchange tube 1 is corrugated, with the longitudinal direction of the heat exchange tube 1 being designated as X-X'. The transverse direction within the flat surface of the heat exchange tube 1 is designated as Y-Y'.

[0123] The longitudinal direction X-X' and the transverse direction Y-Y' define a plane denoted by the letter P. These reference elements have no origin but simply indicate direction and orientation, so they can be located at any point in space.

[0124] Figure 1 The heat exchange tube 1 shown in FIG. 2 is provided with a fluid connector D in the middle region (particularly the center region) along the longitudinal axis XX', forming two segments extending in opposite directions. Each segment of the heat exchange tube 1 terminates in an end flow divider 6. This divider connects the first channel group 1.1 for the supply flow with the second channel group 1.2 for the return flow, redirecting the outflow 180° and continuing along the return path to form a return flow. This change in flow direction creates a U-shaped flow pattern in the heat exchange tube.

[0125] Although the fluid connector D can be located at one end of the heat exchange tube 1, this embodiment shows a connection method located at a middle position because one of its advantages is that it can be located at a middle position.

[0126] The fluid connector D includes two components, namely a first component 3 and a second component 4 , and the two components are respectively located on both sides of the heat exchange tube 1 . The two sides here should be understood as the two main surfaces of the heat exchange tube 1 with a flat structure.

[0127] The first component 3 includes a pipe connection 3.1 for delivering heat transfer fluid to the heat exchange tube 1. The first component supplies fluid to the first channel group 1.1, so that the fluid in the first channel group 1.1 leaves the two segmented fluid connectors D of the heat exchange tube 1. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The direction of liquid flow leaving fluid connector D is shown by thick arrows.

[0128] When the heat transfer fluid reaches the end diverter 6, it will flow back through the second channel group 1.2 until it returns to the second component 4 and flows out through its pipe interface 4.1 as return flow. The return flow is removed through the external pipeline provided for it, but for the sake of clarity, it is not shown in the figure.

[0129] In this embodiment, the pipe connections 3.1 and 4.1 are oriented in the transverse direction Y-Y' and extend from the same side of the heat exchange tube 1. In this case, the side edge should be understood as the thin side edge of the heat exchange tube 1 in the transverse direction Y-Y'. In a battery pack supplied by multiple heat exchange tubes 1, the entire battery pack can be supplied through the central area, where the external pipes extend into the vertical plane of the battery pack.

[0130] In another embodiment of the present invention, the direction of one of the two pipe interfaces 3.1, 4.1 can be contained in the plane P and have a certain inclination relative to the longitudinal direction XX', so as to facilitate the entry of external pipes for supplying and removing the liquid coolant flow without having to be arranged vertically, thereby making the assembly more compact.

[0131] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Corresponding to Figure 2 , except that the heat exchange tube 1 is not shown, so as to better observe the first component 3 and the second component 4.

[0132] The first component 3 and the second component 4 are attached and fixed to each other, with the heat exchange tube 1 interposed therebetween.

[0133] In this embodiment, the attachment between the first component 3 and the second component 4 adopts two connection modes, namely, the clamping 3.5, 4.5 and the threaded connection through a single centrally located screw 5.

[0134] In this embodiment, the locking mechanism utilizes two elements: a latch 3.5 on the first component 3 and two latches 4.5 on the second component 4. When connected, these latches are anchored to the opposing components 4 and 3. The latches 3.5 and 4.5 are spaced apart. In this embodiment, recesses 3.8 and 4.8 are provided. These recesses are openings in each component, with a configuration complementary to the cross-section of the heat exchange tube 1, allowing the heat exchange tube 1 to pass therethrough. In other words, the latches 3.5 and 4.5 are located on either side of the heat exchange tube 1, with the term "two sides" being understood in the transverse direction Y-Y'.

[0135] Instead, the screw 5 penetrates the open housing 4.7 of one of the components (the second component 4 in this embodiment) and passes through all components located in the central area to reach the first component 3. The screw reaches the first component 3 by penetrating the threaded hole 3.7, thereby reliably fixing the first component 3 and the second component 4.

[0136] In this embodiment, the screw 5 passes through at least the middle part 1.3 of the heat exchange tube 1 and the central area of ​​the diverter 2 to be described below.

[0137] Figure 5 The front view of the second component 4 is shown, in which the latch 3.5 connected to the first component 3 and the slot 4.9 for fixing the latch can be seen. The first component 3 and the slot 4.9 of the second component 4 adopt the same technical solution.

[0138] In this view, the transverse direction YY' can be observed, wherein the pipe connection 4.1 of the second component 4 is protrudingly arranged for connection to a fluid connection structure (not shown in the figure).

[0139] The rear portion of the second component 4 can be seen to be reinforced with ribs 4.10, which also extend in the transverse direction YY', so that the clamping stress at the ends can be more effectively transferred to the central area. The first component 3 also shows ribs 3.10 extending in the transverse direction YY'.

[0140] Furthermore, the central region of the second component 4 shows an opening 4.7 where the screws 5 of the first component 3 are screwed in, which also serves as a reinforcement. The vertical ribs 3.10 and 4.10 also help transfer the stress of the screws 5. In other words, they assist the various fixing elements in applying the force from the first and second components 3 and 4 to the heat exchange tubes 1.

[0141] The forces acting on the heat exchange tube 1 facilitate the establishment of fluid tightness between the first component 3 and the second component 4 via the connecting elements of the heat exchange tube 1 (and with the aid of the sealing gasket).

[0142] Figure 6 The method for establishing a fluid-tight connection between the two components 3 and 4 and the heat exchange tube 1 is shown in greater detail. The exploded perspective view shows only the components and elements necessary to ensure fluid-tightness, with the heat exchange tube 1 removed for a complete visualization. The heat exchange tube 1 and other internal components will be added in subsequent figures. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The views are shown more clearly for the second component 4 and the first component 3 respectively.

[0143] The exploded view clearly shows the internal structure of the second component 4, but unless otherwise indicated, the relevant description is valid for both components.

[0144] The heat transfer fluid enters through its pipe connections 3.1, 4.1 and then through the first fluid connection structures 3.3, 4.3. In this embodiment, the first fluid connection structures have the same orientation as the pipe connections 3.1, 4.1. In other words, the first fluid connection structures 3.3, 4.3 are interfaces in the form of pipe sections, which are extensions of the pipes of the pipe connections 3.1, 4.1.

[0145] That is, the inflow or outflow direction of the fluid is determined by the first fluid connection structure 3.3, 4.3 and maintained by the pipe connection 3.1, 4.1. In both cases, it is the transverse direction Y-Y'.

[0146] The heat transfer fluid flows in the inflow direction to the inner chamber 3.2, 4.2, which is also in fluid communication with the second fluid connection structure 3.4, 4.4.

[0147] The second fluid connection structure 3.4, 4.4 includes elements necessary for establishing a fluid-tight connection with the heat exchange tube 1 or any intermediate element (the flow divider 2 in this embodiment), which will be described in detail below.

[0148] same Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, since the second fluid connection structure 3.4 of the first component 3 is connected to the first channel group 1.1, and the second fluid connection structure 4.4 of the second component 4 is connected to the second channel group 1.2, the second fluid connection structures 3.4, 4.4 and their corresponding inner cavities 3.2, 4.2 are located at other positions in the transverse direction YY'. Since the distance between the first channel group 1.1 and the first pipe interface 3.1 of the first component 3 is greater than the distance between the second channel group 1.2 and the pipe interface 4.1 of the second component 4, the second fluid connection structure 3.3 of the first component is located in the first component 3 at the end away from its pipe interface 3.1 along the transverse direction YY', and the second fluid connection structure 4.3 of the second component is also located in the second component 4 at the end close to its pipe interface 4.1 along the transverse direction YY'.

[0149] Back to Figure 6 , considering the components ensuring liquid tightness, it can be observed that O-rings 3.4.1, 4.4.1 are suitable for connection with rigid fittings 3.4.2, 4.4.2, and the setting of the O-rings allows for slight positional deviations between the supports that need to establish liquid tightness.

[0150] Figure 6 Also shown in detail are planar supports 3.6, 4.6 adapted to be supported on the surface of the heat exchange tube 1 to ensure the structural stability of the assembly.

[0151] Thus far, the connection between the first component 3 and the second component 4 and the heat exchange tube via the second fluid connection structures 3.4 and 4.4, as well as via the flow divider 2, has been described. Although the singular "flow divider 2" has been used throughout the description, in fact, from a functional perspective, two flow dividers can also be used, each forming two chambers, one for the supply liquid flow and the other for the return liquid flow, but forming a single component.

[0152] Although the use of the flow divider 2 is not indispensable, the flow divider 2 alone may define the interface with the first channel group 1.1 and the second fluid connection structure 3.4 of the first component 3, as well as the interface with the second channel group 1.2 and the second fluid connection structure 4.4 of the second component 4.

[0153] Figure 9 、 10 11 shows a sequence view of gradually removing certain components so that each detail of the heat exchange tube 1 and the diverter 2 can be observed intuitively.

[0154] In this embodiment, the flow divider 2 is formed by two stamped and punched sheets, which are located on two sides of the heat exchange tube 1 and are connected through ends located at the side edges of the heat exchange tube 1.

[0155] Figure 9 The figure shows a perspective view in which the first component 3 has been removed, leaving only its rigid fittings 3.4.2, so as to observe how it is coupled to the flow divider 2 in the lower part of the figure, which corresponds to the first channel group 1.1 of the heat exchange tube 1. At this position of the flow divider 2, a first chamber 2.1 is provided, which communicates with the first channel group 1.1 of a segment of the heat exchange tube 1 extending to one side along the longitudinal direction XX', and with the first channel group 1.1 of another segment of the heat exchange tube 1 extending to the opposite side along the longitudinal direction XX'.

[0156] exist Figure 10 In the figure, the second tube section of the heat exchange tube 1 has been removed, so that the interface formed by the flow divider 2 can be observed, wherein the first channel group 1.1 and the second channel group 1.2 can be connected separately.

[0157] The larger volume of the first chamber 2.1 is mainly achieved by the expansion of the side. Figure 9 is obscured in the image, but after removing the front stamping sheet, Figure 11 Visible in.

[0158] Figure 9 The expansion of the second chamber 2.2 of the diverter 2 is shown, as Figure 11 As shown, this chamber receives the return flow from the second channel group 1 . 2 and conducts it through the second fluid connection 4 . 4 of the second component 4 .

[0159] Figure 11 It is also shown how the intermediate part 1.3 of the heat exchange tube 1 extends backward in the longitudinal direction XX' and is located outside the diverter 2. This allows the first channel group 1.1 and the second channel group 1.2 to present an end with a continuous peripheral surface, thereby ensuring fluid tightness, which can be made by brazing or other means.

[0160] This arrangement also separates the connecting surfaces of the first channel group 1.1 and the second channel group 1.2 from each other, thereby preventing any unnecessary fluid communication between the first chamber 2.1 and the second chamber 2.2 of the diverter 2, or between the first channel group 1.1 and the second channel group 1.2.

[0161] According to the embodiment, the two stamped sheets constituting the diverter 2 each have a protrusion at one end and a fold at the other end, so only one component needs to be manufactured. In other words, of the two sheets, the protrusion end of one sheet corresponds to the fold end of the other sheet, and vice versa.

[0162] Figure 12 It is a partial perspective view showing the area of ​​the two pipe interfaces 3.1 and 4.1, the connection between the first component 3 and the second component 4, and the situation where a section of the heat exchange tube 1 enters the opening defined by the two recesses 3.8 and 4.8 of the first component 3 and the second component 4.

[0163] After describing a specific embodiment with various options, based on Figures 1 to 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 Schematic diagrams of the second and third embodiments. No flow divider 2 is provided in either embodiment.

[0164] Figure 13 A second embodiment is schematically shown, wherein the heat exchange tube 1 comprises a plurality of channels, specifically 12 channels, of which half shown in the upper portion, i.e., 6 channels, are supply channels 1.1, and the other half shown in the lower portion, i.e., 6 channels, are return channels 1.2.

[0165] The first component 3 and the second component 4 are attached to each other, with the heat exchange tube 1 arranged in between. In the schematic diagram, the components 3 and 4 are shown separately only to distinguish the first component 3 and the second component 4. In fact, they can be in contact.

[0166] The supply fluid enters through the pipe interface 3.1 of the first component 3 and then enters the inner cavity 3.2 through the first fluid connection structure 3.3. The first fluid connection structure 3.3 is represented by a horizontal line, which is a cross-section of the fluid channel and defines the interface between the interior of the pipe interface 3.1 and the inner cavity 3.2. The first channel 1.1 located in the upper part of the heat exchange tube 1 has a fluid connection interface leading to the inner cavity 3.2, and the interface is represented by a vertical gray thick line in the figure. This interface constitutes the second fluid connection structure 3.4 of the first component 3. It is the area where the fluid enters the inner cavity 3.2 from the channel 1.1 and is suitable for the supply fluid. The interface is formed by the grooves or perforations of each channel 1.1 in the upper half of the heat exchange tube 1.

[0167] At this time, the interface defining the first component 3 and the second fluid connection structure 3 . 4 of the heat exchange tube is defined by a support directly supported on the side wall of the heat exchange tube 1 .

[0168] The walls separating the channels from one another prevent a flow between the channels, as well as a backflow from the first component 3 to the channel group 1 . 2 .

[0169] In the heat exchange tube 1 , the grooves or perforations for establishing fluid communication via the second fluid connection structure 3 . 4 are located on one side, ie, the left side in the figure.

[0170] The connection with the second component 4 is similar to this, except that the interface for establishing the second fluid connection junction 4.4 is located on the right side of the heat exchange tube 1, that is, on the other side of the second fluid connection structure 3.4 relative to the first component 3, and is located in the lower area in the figure, suitable for receiving the liquid flow of the channel group 1.2 for transmitting reflux.

[0171] The reflux is collected and enters the interior 4.2 of the second component 4 and leaves through the first fluid connection 4.3 of the first component 4 to flow out through its pipe connection 4.1, for example, to an external pipeline.

[0172] Because the first and second components 3 and 4 are closely attached to the heat exchange tube 1 and only establish a single interface between the second fluid connection structures 3.4 and 4.4, which is limited to the openings, grooves, and perforations on the heat exchange tube, fluid tightness is ensured and an intermediate flow divider is unnecessary. The intermediate cavities 3.2 and 4.2 can function as flow dividers.

[0173] Figure 14 It is inherited Figure 13 That is, the above description of these common elements is still valid, except that the inner cavities 3.2 and 4.2 of the first component 3 and the second component 4 are not limited to half of the range of the heat exchange tube 1 in the transverse direction Y-Y', but can occupy the entire width of the heat exchange tube 1.

[0174] In the first component 3, the channel located in the upper portion of the figure and corresponding to the liquid supply channel 1.1 has an opening only on the side facing the left; that is, it faces the inner cavity 3.2 of the first component 3, but not the inner cavity 4.2 of the second component 4. Therefore, even though liquid flow occurs only in the upper region of the heat exchange tube 1 with the opening, the interface established by the second fluid connection structure 3.4 of the first component 3 is represented by a vertical thick gray line.

[0175] In the second component 4, the channel located in the lower portion of the figure and corresponding to the return channel 1.2 has an opening only on the side facing the right; that is, it opens into the inner cavity 4.2 of the second component 4, but not into the inner cavity 3.2 of the first component 3. Therefore, even though liquid flow occurs only in the lower region of the heat exchange tube 1 with the opening, the interface established by the second fluid connection structure 4.4 of the second component 4 is indicated by a vertical thick gray line.

[0176] The flow of liquid through the interface defined by the second fluid connections 3.4, 4.4 of the first component 3 and the second component 4 is established in the region where the arrows indicate the flow direction. In this embodiment, in the first component, the arrows indicate the flow into the heat exchange tube 1, while in the second component 4, the arrows indicate the flow out of the heat exchange tube 1.

[0177] In this embodiment, the second fluid connection structures 3 . 4 , 4 . 4 are defined by surfaces supported on the heat exchange tube 1 .

[0178] It should be clear that the surface, whether at the interface of the first fluid connection structure 3.3, 4.3 or at the interface of the second fluid connection structure 3.4, 4.4, is not a physical surface, but the boundary of the control volume, that is, the volume between the first fluid connection structure 3.3, 4.3 and the second fluid connection structure 3.4, 4.4.

Claims

1. A fluid connector (D) suitable for a heat exchange tube (1) of a battery cell, characterized in that: The heat exchange tube (1) has the following characteristics: - suitable for transporting a heat transfer fluid and for exchanging heat with one or more battery cells, - has a flat structure, is generally confined between two parallel surfaces and comprises at least one tubular segment extending generally in a plane (P) and extending along a longitudinal direction (XX') and a transverse direction (YY'), - comprises one or more longitudinal liquid supply channels (1.1) on one side and one or more longitudinal return channels (1.2) on the opposite side in the transverse direction (Y-Y'), and - Optionally, the heat exchange tube (1) comprises at least one flow divider (2), the flow divider (2) being in fluid communication with the supply channel (1.1), the return channel (1.2) or both channels (1.1, 1.2); The fluid connector (D) comprises a first component (3) and a second component (4), wherein the first component (3) and the second component (4) are configured such that, in an operating mode, at least a portion of the tube section of the heat exchange tube (1) having a flat structure is located therebetween, wherein: - the first component (3) and the second component (4) respectively comprise a first fluid connection structure (3.3, 4.3), the first fluid connection structure (3.3) of the first component (3) is used for liquid supply, and the first fluid connection structure (4.3) of the second component (4) is used for return; - the first component (3) and the second component (4) respectively comprise second fluid connection structures (3.4, 4.4), the second fluid connection structures being adapted to communicate with the channels (1.1, 1.2) of the heat exchange tube 1, the second fluid connection structure (3.4) of the first component (3) being adapted to connect with the liquid supply channel (1.1) of the heat exchange tube (1), and the second fluid connection structure (4.4) of the second component (4) being adapted to connect with the return channel (1.2) of the heat exchange tube (1); The first fluid connection structure (3.3) of the first component (3) is in fluid communication with the second fluid connection structure (3.4), and the first fluid connection structure (4.3) of the second component (4) is in fluid communication with the second fluid connection structure (4.4).

2. A fluid connector (D) according to claim 1, wherein the first fluid connection structure (3.3) of the first component (3), the first fluid connection structure (4.3) of the second component (4) or the two first fluid connection structures (3.3, 4.3) are arranged in the following direction: the angle formed with the plane (P) does not exceed 20°, more preferably, the angle formed with the plane (P) does not exceed 15°, or the angle formed with the plane (P) does not exceed 10°, or the angle formed with the plane (P) does not exceed 5°, or the angle formed with the plane (P) does not exceed 3°, and more preferably, are located in the plane (P).

3. The fluid connector (D) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first fluid connection structure (3.3, 4.3) of the first component (3), the second component (4) or both is in fluid communication with the second fluid connection structure (3.4, 4.4) via an inner cavity (3.2, 4.2).

4. A fluid connector (D) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first component (3) and the second component (4) comprise fixing means for attaching to each other.

5. A fluid connector (D) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The fixing means for mutual attachment comprise snap-on means (3.5, 4.5).

6. A fluid connector (D) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The fixing means for mutual attachment comprise threaded connection means.

7. A fluid connector (D) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first component (3), the second component (4) or both (3, 4) include a pipe interface (3.1, 4.1) in a first fluid connection structure (3.3, 4.3), and the pipe interface is fixed to the first fluid connection structure (3.3, 4.3) or forms a single body with the components (3, 4) as an extension component of the first fluid connection structure (3.3, 4.3).

8. A fluid connector (D) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The direction of the first fluid connection structure (3.3, 4.3) is transverse (Y-Y') relative to the longitudinal direction (XX'), wherein the first fluid connection structure (3.3) of the first component (3) and the first fluid connection structure (4.3) of the second component (4) have the same direction or opposite directions.

9. A battery unit heat exchange device, characterized in that: include: - heat exchange tubes (1) which: adapted to transport a heat transfer fluid and configured to exchange heat with one or more battery cells, It has a flat structure, is generally confined between two parallel surfaces, and comprises at least one tube segment, which extends generally in a plane (P) and along a longitudinal direction (XX') and a transverse direction (YY'), and One or more longitudinal liquid supply channels (1.1) are included on one side, and one or more longitudinal return channels (1.2) are included on the opposite side in the transverse direction (Y-Y'); and - A fluid connector (D) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The heat exchange tube (1) is located between the first component (3) and the second component (4); The second fluid connection structure (3.4) of the first component (3) is in fluid communication with the liquid supply channel (1.1) of the heat exchange tube (1), and the second fluid connection structure (4.4) of the second component (4) is in fluid communication with the return channel (1.2).

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein The first component (3) and the second component (4) are attached to each other.

11. The device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the heat exchange tube (1) comprises a flow divider (2), the flow divider (2) having two distribution chambers (2.1, 2.2), wherein a first distribution chamber (2.1) is for the supply liquid flow and a second distribution chamber (2.2) is for the return flow, the two distribution chambers (2.1, 2.2) being fluidically separated from each other: - the first distribution chamber (2.1) is configured to be in fluid communication with the one or more liquid supply channels (1.1), and - the second distribution chamber (2.2) is configured to be in fluid communication with the one or more return channels (1.2); in, The second fluid connection structure (3.4) of the first component (3) is in communication with the first distribution chamber (2.1), and the second fluid connection structure (4.4) of the second component (4) is in communication with the second distribution chamber (2.2).

12. An apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the fluid connector (D) is located at the midpoint of the heat exchange tube (1) along its longitudinal direction, so that the heat exchange tube (1) extends in corresponding segments on both sides of the fluid connector (D), and both segments of the heat exchange tube (1) are fluidically connected to the fluid connector (D).

13. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first component (3) and the second component (4) are made of a dielectric material, preferably plastic.

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