Thermal management system and vehicle

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a thermal management system and a vehicle. The thermal management system includes a first radiator, a battery pack, a battery cooler, a first three-way valve, and a controller. The coolant outlet of the battery pack is connected to the inlet of the first radiator via a first flow path, and the coolant inlet of the battery pack is connected to the outlet of the first radiator via a second flow path. A first heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler connects between the first and second flow paths, and a second heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler connects to a compression refrigeration subsystem. Furthermore, the first heat exchange flow path is connected to the first flow path via the first three-way valve, and the controller is signal-connected to the first three-way valve to enable at least one of the first radiator and the battery cooler to be used for cooling the battery pack. This allows for the selection of the first radiator and / or the battery cooler for cooling the battery pack under different heat dissipation conditions, optimizing the cooling method of the battery pack in the thermal management system and reducing the overall energy consumption of the thermal management system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of vehicle thermal management technology, specifically to a thermal management system and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] When the thermal management system of a hybrid vehicle cools the battery, it typically does so through the air conditioning system and the battery cooler. Cooling the battery via these systems requires the air conditioning compressor to be constantly running. While this method is effective when the battery temperature is high or rapid cooling is needed, it results in excessive energy consumption when the battery temperature is moderate or rapid cooling is not required. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a thermal management system and a vehicle, in which the power battery in the thermal management system can be selectively cooled by a first radiator and / or a battery cooler, thereby optimizing the cooling method of the battery pack in the thermal management system, reducing the overall energy consumption of the thermal management system, and at least partially solving the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a thermal management system is provided, including a first radiator, a battery pack, a battery cooler, a first three-way valve, and a controller. The coolant outlet of the battery pack is connected to the inlet of the first radiator via a first flow path, and the coolant inlet of the battery pack is connected to the outlet of the first radiator via a second flow path. A first heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler is connected between the first flow path and the second flow path, and a second heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler is connected to a compression refrigeration subsystem. The first heat exchange flow path is connected to the first flow path via the first three-way valve. The controller is signal-connected to the first three-way valve so that at least one of the first radiator and the battery cooler is used for cooling the battery pack.

[0005] Optionally, the thermal management system has a first cooling mode, in which the first three-way valve connects the inlet of the first radiator to the coolant outlet of the battery pack and disconnects the first heat exchange flow path from the first flow path.

[0006] The thermal management system has a third cooling mode, in which the first three-way valve connects the first heat exchange flow path to the coolant outlet of the battery pack and disconnects the connection between the inlet of the first radiator and the coolant outlet of the battery pack.

[0007] The thermal management system has a fourth cooling mode, in which the first three-way valve connects the inlet of the first radiator and the first heat exchange flow path to the coolant outlet of the battery pack.

[0008] Optionally, the thermal management system further includes an electric drive unit, a four-way valve, and a second radiator. A first three-way valve is provided between the first heat exchange flow path and the first flow path. The four-way valve is provided on the first flow path. The first port of the four-way valve is connected to the coolant outlet of the battery pack. The second port of the four-way valve is connected to the first three-way valve. The third port of the four-way valve is connected to the coolant inlet of the electric drive unit. The fourth port of the four-way valve is connected to the outlet end of the second radiator. The inlet end of the second radiator is connected to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit. The controller is signal-connected to the four-way valve.

[0009] The thermal management system has a second cooling mode. In the second cooling mode, the second interface is connected to the fourth interface, the first interface is connected to the third interface, and the first three-way valve connects the second interface to the first radiator.

[0010] Optionally, the thermal management system further includes a heat exchanger and a heater, the outlet of the heater being connected to the inlet of the third heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger via a third flow path, the inlet of the heater being connected to the outlet of the third heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger via a fourth flow path, and the fourth heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger being connected in series with the first heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler between the first flow path and the second flow path.

[0011] Optionally, the thermal management system further includes an engine connected in parallel with the heater between the third flow path and the fourth flow path. A second three-way valve is provided at the connection between the outlet of the heater and the third flow path. The controller is signal-connected to the second three-way valve so that at least one of the heater and the engine is used for heating the battery pack.

[0012] Optionally, the thermal management system has a first heating mode, in which the second three-way valve connects the outlet of the heater to the inlet of the third heat exchange path and disconnects the coolant outlet of the engine from the inlet of the third heat exchange path.

[0013] The thermal management system has a second heating mode. In the second heating mode, the second three-way valve connects the coolant outlet of the engine to the inlet of the third heat exchange path and disconnects the outlet of the heater from the inlet of the third heat exchange path.

[0014] The thermal management system has a third heating mode, in which the second three-way valve connects the coolant outlet of the engine and the outlet of the heater to the inlet of the third heat exchange path.

[0015] Optionally, the thermal management system further includes a third radiator, which is connected in parallel with the engine between the third flow path and the fourth flow path;

[0016] A thermostat is provided on the third flow path, and the thermostat is located between the connection between the radiator and the third flow path and the connection between the engine and the third flow path. Alternatively, a thermostat is provided on the fourth flow path, and the thermostat is located between the connection between the third radiator and the fourth flow path and the connection between the engine and the fourth flow path.

[0017] Optionally, the thermal management system further includes a third three-way valve, the first opening of which is connected to the inlet of the second radiator, the second opening of which is connected to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit, the outlet of the second radiator being connected to the fourth interface of the four-way valve via a fifth flow path, the third opening of which is connected to the fifth flow path, and the controller being signal-connected to the third three-way valve so that at least one of the heater and the engine is used for heating the battery pack or the battery pack and the electric drive unit.

[0018] Optionally, the thermal management system further includes a controller. The thermal management system has a first heating condition and a second heating condition in the first heating mode, the second heating mode, and the third heating mode. In the first heating condition, the fourth interface is connected to the second interface, the first interface is connected to the third interface, the first three-way valve connects the second interface to the fourth heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger, and the third three-way valve connects the fourth interface to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit.

[0019] In the second heating condition, the first interface is connected to the second interface, and the third interface is connected to the fourth interface. The first three-way valve connects the second interface to the fourth heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger.

[0020] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle is provided, including the aforementioned thermal management system.

[0021] Through the above technical solution, in this thermal management system, the coolant outlet of the battery pack is connected to the inlet of the first radiator through a first flow path, the coolant inlet of the battery pack is connected to the outlet of the first radiator through a second flow path, the second heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler is connected in the compression refrigeration subsystem, the first heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler is connected between the first flow path and the second flow path, and the first heat exchange flow path is connected to the first flow path through a first three-way valve. The controller is signal-connected to the first three-way valve. The controller controls the first three-way valve to make at least one of the first radiator and the battery cooler used for cooling the battery pack. It can select the first radiator and / or the battery cooler for heat dissipation under different heat dissipation conditions of the battery pack, optimize the cooling method of the battery pack in the thermal management system, and reduce the overall energy consumption of the thermal management system.

[0022] Other features and advantages of this disclosure will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the present disclosure and form part of the specification. They are used together with the following detailed description to explain the present disclosure, but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings:

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in a first cooling mode, and the thick solid lines and arrows in the figure indicate the flow path of the coolant in this mode;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in a second cooling mode, and the thick solid lines and arrows in the figure indicate the flow path of the coolant in this mode;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in the third cooling mode, and the thick solid lines and arrows in the figure indicate the flow path of the coolant in this mode;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in the fourth cooling mode, and the thick solid lines and arrows in the figure indicate the flow path of the coolant in this mode;

[0029] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in a first heating condition under a first heating mode, and the thick solid lines and arrows in the figure represent the flow path of the coolant in this mode;

[0030] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in the first heating condition of the second heating mode, and the thick solid line and arrow in the figure represent the flow path of the coolant in this mode;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in the first heating condition of the third heating mode, and the thick solid line and arrow in the figure represent the flow path of the coolant in this mode;

[0032] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in a second heating condition under a first heating mode, and the thick solid lines and arrows in the figure represent the flow path of the coolant under this mode;

[0033] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in the second heating condition of the second heating mode, and the thick solid line and arrow in the figure represent the flow path of the coolant in this mode;

[0034] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the thermal management system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; wherein, the thermal management system is in the second heating condition of the third heating mode, and the thick solid line and arrow in the figure represent the flow path of the coolant in this mode.

[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0036] 11-Battery pack; 12-First temperature sensor; 13-First water pump; 14-First radiator; 15-First three-way valve; 16-Four-way valve; 17-Second temperature sensor; 18-Battery cooler; 181-First heat exchange path; 182-Second heat exchange path; 21-Electric drive unit; 211-Second water pump; 212-Motor controller; 213-Hybrid box; 22-Third temperature sensor; 23-Third three-way valve; 24-Second radiator; 31-First thermal expansion valve; 32-First air conditioning shut-off valve; 33-Three-state pressure switch; 34-Condenser; 35 - Compressor; 36- First evaporator; 37- Second evaporator; 38- Second thermal expansion valve; 39- Second air conditioning shut-off valve; 301- Pressure and temperature sensor; 302- Electronic expansion valve; 41- Heater; 42- Third water pump; 43- Third radiator; 44- Thermostat; 45- Second three-way valve; 46- First heater core; 47- First heater shut-off valve; 48- Engine; 49- Fourth water pump; 51- Fourth temperature sensor; 52- Second heater core; 53- Heat exchanger; 531- Third heat exchange path; 532- Fourth heat exchange path; 54- Regulating valve;

[0037] 1a - First flow path; 1b - Second flow path; 2a - Third flow path; 2b - Fourth flow path; 3a - Fifth flow path;

[0038] A - First interface; B - Second interface; C - Third interface; D - Fourth interface; E - First valve port; F - Second valve port; G - Third valve port; H - First port; I - Second port; J - Third port; K - First opening; L - Second opening; M - Third opening. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0040] refer to Figures 1 to 11As shown, the first aspect of this disclosure provides a thermal management system, including a first radiator 14, a battery pack 11, a battery cooler 18, a first three-way valve 15, and a controller. The coolant outlet of the battery pack 11 is connected to the inlet of the first radiator 14 via a first flow path 1a, and the coolant inlet of the battery pack 11 is connected to the outlet of the first radiator 14 via a second flow path 1b. A first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18 is connected between the first flow path 1a and the second flow path 1b, and a second heat exchange flow path 182 of the battery cooler 18 is connected to a compression refrigeration subsystem. Furthermore, the first heat exchange flow path 181 is connected to the first flow path 1a via the first three-way valve 15, and the controller is signal-connected to the first three-way valve 15 to enable at least one of the first radiator 14 and the battery cooler 18 to be used for cooling the battery pack 11. This allows for the selection of the first radiator 14 and / or the battery cooler 18 for heat dissipation under different heat dissipation conditions of the battery pack 11, optimizing the cooling method of the battery pack 11 in the thermal management system and reducing the overall energy consumption of the thermal management system.

[0041] It should be noted that the compression refrigeration subsystem can be the vehicle's air conditioning refrigeration system. The compression refrigeration subsystem also includes a compressor 35, a condenser 34, a three-state pressure switch 33, a first evaporator 36, a second evaporator 37, a first air conditioning shut-off valve 32, a second air conditioning shut-off valve 39, a first thermostatic expansion valve 31, and a second thermostatic expansion valve 38.

[0042] In the compression refrigeration subsystem, the first evaporator 36 and the second evaporator 37 are respectively located in the front and rear air conditioning units of the vehicle's passenger compartment for cooling the passenger compartment. The first evaporator 36, the second evaporator 37, and the battery cooler 18 are connected in parallel and in series with the compressor 35 and the condenser 34, respectively. The coolant passes through the compressor 35, the condenser 34, and the three-state pressure switch 33, and is divided into three branches that connect to the second heat exchange flow path 182 of the first evaporator 36, the second evaporator 37, and the battery cooler 18, respectively. A first air conditioning shut-off valve 32 and a first thermal expansion valve 31 are provided on the branch connecting to the first evaporator 36. The first air conditioning shut-off valve 32 can be used to control the on / off of the branch connecting to the first evaporator 36 in the compression cooling subsystem. A second air conditioning shut-off valve 39 and a second thermal expansion valve 38 are provided on the branch connecting to the second evaporator 37. The second air conditioning shut-off valve 39 can be used to control the on / off of the branch connecting to the second evaporator 37 in the compression cooling subsystem. An electronic expansion valve 302 is provided on the branch connecting to the second heat exchange flow path 182 of the battery cooler 18 in the compression cooling subsystem. The electronic expansion valve 302 can convert the coolant from the condenser 34 to the second reversing circuit of the battery cooler 18 into a low-temperature, low-pressure coolant. A pressure and temperature sensor 301 is also installed on the branch of the second heat exchange flow path 182 connecting to the battery cooler 18. The pressure and temperature sensor 301 is located between the battery cooler 18 and the compressor 35. The pressure and temperature sensor 301 is used to monitor the temperature of the coolant flowing out of the second heat exchange flow path 182 of the battery cooler 18, and can also monitor the pressure value of the branch connected to the second heat exchange flow path 182 of the battery cooler 18. In addition, the three-state pressure switch 33 can protect the compression refrigeration subsystem, which will not be described in detail here.

[0043] It should be understood that the first radiator 14 can be an air-cooled radiator, through which the heat of the battery pack 11 is dissipated to the external environment. The coolant in the compression cooling subsystem is a refrigerant.

[0044] In some implementations, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first port E of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18, the second port F of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first radiator 14, and the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11. As described above, the controller is signal-connected to the first three-way valve 15, and the controller controls the first three-way valve 15 to operate so that at least one of the first radiator 14 and the battery cooler 18 is used for cooling the battery pack 11, thereby enabling the thermal management system to have a first cooling mode, a third cooling mode, and a fourth cooling mode.

[0045] In the first cooling mode, such as Figure 2As shown, the first three-way valve 15 connects the inlet of the first radiator 14 to the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11, and disconnects the connection between the first heat exchange flow path 181 and the first flow path 1a. That is, in the first cooling mode, the second valve port F of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the third valve port G, while the third valve port G is disconnected from the first valve port E, allowing the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11 to connect to the inlet of the first radiator 14. The coolant in the battery pack 11 flows through the first radiator 14 for heat dissipation and then flows back to the battery pack 11. When the heat in the battery pack 11 is moderate or rapid cooling is not required, the thermal management system can be in the first cooling mode. The connection paths of the relevant devices and the flow paths of the coolant in the first cooling mode of the thermal management system will be described in detail below and will not be repeated here.

[0046] In the third cooling mode, such as Figure 4 As shown, the first three-way valve 15 connects the first heat exchange flow path 181 to the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11, and disconnects the connection between the inlet of the first radiator 14 and the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11. That is, in the third cooling mode, the second valve port F of the first three-way valve 15 is disconnected from the third valve port G, while the third valve port G is connected to the first valve port E, allowing the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11 to connect to the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18. The coolant in the battery pack 11 flows through the first heat exchange flow path 181 to dissipate heat and then flows back to the battery pack 11. When the temperature of the battery pack 11 is high or the rate of heat rise is rapid, the thermal management system can be in the third cooling mode. The connection paths of the relevant devices in the system and the flow paths of the coolant will be described in detail below and will not be repeated here.

[0047] In the fourth cooling mode, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first three-way valve 15 connects the inlet of the first radiator 14 and the first heat exchange flow path 181 to the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11. That is, in the fourth cooling mode, the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is simultaneously connected to both the first port E and the second port F, so that the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11 is simultaneously connected to both the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18 and the inlet of the first radiator 14. The coolant in the battery pack 11 flows through the first heat exchange flow path 181 and the first radiator 14 to dissipate heat before flowing back to the battery pack 11. When the heat from the battery pack 11 is insufficient to cool it to a preset temperature range solely through the first radiator 14, and needs to be shared by the battery cooler 18, the thermal management system can be set to the fourth cooling mode. The connection paths of the relevant devices in the system and the flow paths of the coolant will be described in detail below and will not be repeated here.

[0048] It should be understood that the thermal management system also includes a first water pump 13, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first water pump 13 can be installed in the second flow path 1b, and the first water pump 13 is located at the connection point of the first heat exchange flow path 181 to the second flow path 1b and the flow path of the coolant inlet of the battery pack 11.

[0049] Alternatively, in other possible embodiments, the first water pump 13 may be disposed in the first flow path 1a, and the first water pump 13 is located between the first three-way valve 15 and the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11. The first water pump 13 is capable of powering the coolant so that the coolant can circulate between at least one of the first heat exchange flow paths 181 in the first radiator 14 and the battery cooler 18 and the battery pack 11. For example, the first water pump 13 can circulate the coolant between the first radiator 14 and the battery pack 11; or, the first water pump can circulate the coolant between the first heat exchange flow path 181 in the battery cooler 18 and the battery pack 11; or, the first water pump can circulate the coolant between the battery pack 11 and the first heat exchange flow path 181 in the battery cooler 18, and between the battery pack 11 and the first radiator 14.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first water pump 13 is signal-connected to a controller, which can be used to control the operation of the first water pump 13. The first three-way valve 15 can be configured as a three-way proportional regulating valve.

[0051] In other possible embodiments, the first three-way valve 15 may also be disposed between the first heat exchange flow path 181 and the second flow path 1b. The first valve port E of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18, the second valve port F of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the coolant inlet of the battery pack 11, and the third valve port G of the first radiator 14 is connected to the outlet of the first radiator 14. In this case, the first water pump 13 may be disposed in the flow path between the first three-way valve 15 and the coolant inlet of the battery pack 11; or disposed in the flow path between the connection point of the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18 and the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11.

[0052] In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes an electric drive unit 21, a four-way valve 16, and a second radiator 24. As described above, the first heat exchange flow path 181 is connected to the first flow path 1a via a first three-way valve 15. The four-way valve 16 is disposed on the first flow path 1a. The first port A of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11, the second port B of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the first three-way valve 15, the third port C of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the coolant inlet of the electric drive unit 21, and the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the outlet of the second radiator 24. The inlet of the second radiator 24 is connected to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit 21. A third temperature sensor 22 may be disposed at the coolant inlet of the electric drive unit 21 to monitor the temperature of the coolant entering the electric drive unit 21.

[0053] The controller is connected to the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16 respectively, enabling the thermal management system to have a second cooling mode. In the second cooling mode, the second interface B is connected to the fourth interface D, and the first interface A is connected to the third interface C. Furthermore, the third valve port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the second interface B, and the second valve port F of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first radiator 14, thus connecting the second interface B to the first radiator 14. This ensures that the first water pump 13, battery pack 11, first interface A of the four-way valve 16, third interface C of the four-way valve 16, electric drive unit 21, second radiator 24, fourth interface D of the four-way valve 16, second interface B of the four-way valve 16, third valve port G of the first three-way valve 15, second valve port F of the first three-way valve 15, and the inlet of the first radiator 14 are sequentially connected, and the outlet of the first radiator 14 is connected to the first water pump 13, forming a circuit.

[0054] The electric drive unit 21 may include: a second water pump 211, a motor controller 212, and a hybrid unit 213. In the second cooling mode, such as... Figure 3As shown, the coolant flow path in the thermal management system is as follows: battery pack 11, first port A of four-way valve 16, third port C of four-way valve 16, second water pump 211 of electric drive unit 21, motor controller 212, hybrid box 213, second radiator 24, fourth port D of four-way valve 16, second port B of four-way valve 16, third valve port G of first three-way valve 15, second valve port F of first three-way valve 15, first radiator 14, first water pump 13, and battery pack 11. In the second cooling mode, the first radiator 14 and the second radiator 24 are connected in series, which can dissipate heat from the battery pack 11, increase the heat dissipation area of ​​the radiator, and improve the heat dissipation efficiency. The second cooling mode of the thermal management system can be used when the vehicle is parked and powered on. At this time, the vehicle is not moving and the hybrid box 213 of the electric drive unit 21 is not running. The battery pack 11 can be cooled simultaneously by the first radiator 14 and the second radiator 24, which improves the cooling effect of the battery pack 11 and reduces or even avoids the intervention of the compressor 35 of the compression refrigeration subsystem.

[0055] In some embodiments, as described above, the thermal management system also has a first cooling mode. The connection paths of relevant devices and the flow paths of the coolant in the system under the first cooling mode are described with the introduction of the four-way valve 16. In the first cooling mode, the controller controls the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16 such that the first port A of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the second port B of the four-way valve 16, and the third port C of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16. Furthermore, in this cooling mode, the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the second port F, so that the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11 is connected to the inlet of the first radiator 14. This allows for cooling of the battery pack 11 through the first radiator 14. In this cooling mode, as... Figure 2 As shown, the flow path of the coolant in the battery pack 11 is as follows: battery pack 11, coolant outlet of battery pack 11, first port A of four-way valve 16, second port B of four-way valve 16, third port G of first three-way valve 15, second port F of first three-way valve 15, first radiator 14, first water pump 13, coolant inlet of battery pack 11, battery pack 11.

[0056] In some embodiments, as described above, the thermal management system has a third cooling mode. The connection paths of relevant devices and the flow paths of the coolant in the third cooling mode are described with the introduction of a four-way valve 16. In the third cooling mode, the controller controls the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16 such that the first port A of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the second port B of the four-way valve 16, and the third port C of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16. Furthermore, in this cooling mode, the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first port E, so that the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11 is connected to the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18, thereby cooling the battery pack 11 through the battery cooler 18 and the compression cooling subsystem. In this cooling mode, as... Figure 4 As shown, the flow path of the coolant in the battery pack 11 is as follows: battery pack 11, coolant outlet of battery pack 11, first port A of four-way valve 16, second port B of four-way valve 16, third port G of first three-way valve 15, first port E of first three-way valve 15, first heat exchange flow path 181 of battery cooler 18, first water pump 13, coolant inlet of battery pack 11, battery pack 11.

[0057] In other embodiments, as described above, the thermal management system has a fourth cooling mode, and the connection paths of relevant devices and the flow paths of the coolant in the fourth cooling mode are described with the introduction of the four-way valve 16. In the fourth cooling mode, as... Figure 5As shown, the controller controls the operation of the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16, so that the first port A of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the second port B, and the third port C is connected to the fourth port D. The third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first port E and the second port F, respectively. The first three-way valve 15 is constructed as a three-way proportional valve. In this cooling mode, the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11, the first port A of the four-way valve 16, the second port B of the four-way valve 16, and the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 are connected in sequence. Then, the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first port E and the second port F of the first three-way valve 15, respectively, to form two branches. The branch connected to the first port E is connected to the first water pump 13 through the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18, and the branch connected to the second port F is connected to the first water pump 13 through the first radiator 14. The first water pump 13 is then connected to the coolant inlet of the battery pack 11 to form a loop. In this cooling mode, the coolant in the battery pack 11 circulates in this circuit to cool the battery pack 11 through the first radiator 14, the battery cooler 18, and the compression cooling subsystem. This mode can be applied when the heat dissipation capacity of the first radiator 14 is insufficient to cool the battery pack 11 to a preset temperature range, allowing the battery cooler 18 and the compression cooling subsystem to share some of the pressure. At this time, the compressor 35 in the compression cooling subsystem can operate at lower power, reducing energy consumption in the thermal management system. It should be noted that the compressor 35 can be powered by the battery or the engine 48.

[0058] In some embodiments, a first temperature sensor 12 can be installed at the coolant inlet of the battery pack 11, and a second temperature sensor 17 can be installed at the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11. The second temperature sensor 17 is used to monitor the temperature of the coolant flowing out of the battery pack 11, and the first temperature sensor 12 is used to monitor the temperature of the coolant flowing back into the battery pack 11 after circulating heat dissipation. Both the first temperature sensor 12 and the second temperature sensor 17 are connected to the controller signal. The first three-way valve 15 is a three-way proportional regulating valve. The controller can adjust the opening of the first three-way valve 15 according to the temperature data fed back by the first temperature sensor 12 and the second temperature sensor 17, so as to adjust the flow rate of the coolant flowing out of the battery pack 11 through the first three-way valve 15 into the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the first radiator 14 and / or the battery cooler 18, thereby changing the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery pack 11.

[0059] In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a heat exchanger 53 and a heater 41. The outlet of the heater 41 is connected to the inlet of the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 via a third flow path 2a. The inlet of the heater 41 is connected to the outlet of the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 via a fourth flow path 2b. The fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected in series with the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18 between the first flow path 1a and the second flow path 1b.

[0060] In the above embodiment, the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected in series with the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18 between the first flow path 1a and the second flow path 1b, specifically: one end of the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected in series with one end of the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18, the other end of the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 is connected to one of the first flow path 1a and the second flow path 1b, and the first heat exchange flow path 181 is connected to the other.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, one end of the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected in series with one end of the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18, and the other end of the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 is connected to the second flow path 1b. The other end of the first heat exchange flow path 181 is connected to the first three-way valve 15. Specifically, the other end of the first heat exchange flow path 181 is connected to the first valve port E of the first three-way valve 15. For ease of understanding, it can also be described as follows: As mentioned above, the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18 is connected between the first flow path 1a and the second flow path 1b. The fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 is arranged on the flow path where the first heat exchange flow path 181 is connected to the second flow path 1b, so that the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 are connected in series.

[0062] In some embodiments, the thermal management system includes an engine 48 connected in parallel with a heater 41 between a third flow path 2a and a fourth flow path 2b. A second three-way valve 45 is provided at the connection point between the outlet of the heater 41 and the third flow path 2a. A controller is signal-connected to the second three-way valve 45 to enable at least one of the heater 41 and the engine 48 to be used for heating the battery pack 11.

[0063] Furthermore, it should be noted that a third water pump 42 may be installed between the inlet of heater 41 and the fourth flow path 2b. A fourth water pump 49 may be installed between the coolant inlet of engine 48 and the fourth flow path 2b, or between the coolant outlet of engine 48 and the third flow path 2a.

[0064] In the above embodiment, the controller is signal-connected to the second three-way valve 45, enabling at least one of the heater 41 and the engine 48 to heat the coolant in the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53, thereby enabling the thermal management system to have a first heating mode, a second heating mode, and a third heating mode.

[0065] In the first heating mode, the controller controls the second three-way valve 45 to connect the outlet of the heater 41 to the inlet of the third heat exchange flow path 531, while disconnecting the coolant outlet of the engine 48 from the inlet of the third heat exchange flow path 531. In this heating mode, the coolant in the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 can be heated by the heater 41.

[0066] In the second heating mode, the second three-way valve 45 connects the coolant outlet of the engine 48 to the inlet of the third heat exchange flow path 531, while disconnecting the outlet of the heater 41 from the inlet of the third heat exchange flow path 531. In this heating mode, the coolant in the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 can be heated by the engine 48.

[0067] In the third heating mode, the second three-way valve 45 connects the coolant outlet of the engine 48 and the outlet of the heater 41 to the inlet of the third heat exchange path 531. In this heating mode, the coolant in the third heat exchange path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 can be heated simultaneously by the engine 48 and the heater 41.

[0068] In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a third radiator 43, which is connected in parallel with the engine 48 between the third flow path 2a and the fourth flow path 2b. A thermostat 44 is provided on the third flow path 2a, located between the connection between the third radiator 43 and the third flow path 2a and the connection between the engine 48 and the third flow path 2a; or, a thermostat 44 is provided on the fourth flow path 2b, located between the connection between the third radiator 43 and the fourth flow path 2b and the connection between the engine 48 and the fourth flow path 2b.

[0069] It should be noted that the system containing the engine 48 and heater 41 can be defined as a heating subsystem, which also includes a first heater core 46 and a second heater core 52. The first heater core 46, the second heater core 52, and the heat exchanger 53 are connected in parallel in the third heat exchange flow path 531. The first heater core 46, the second heater core 52, and the heat exchanger 53 are all connected in series with the engine 48, and are also connected in series with the heater 41. The first heater core 46 is located in the first air conditioning unit, and the second heater core 52 is located in the second air conditioning unit. Both the first heater core 46 and the second heater core 52 are used for heating the vehicle's passenger compartment. A first heater shut-off valve 47 is installed on the branch connecting the second heater core 52 between the third flow path 2a and the fourth flow path 2b, used to regulate the flow rate of coolant through the second heater core 52. A regulating valve 54 is installed on the branch of the third flow path 2a connecting the heat exchanger 53 to the fourth flow path 2b, for regulating the flow rate of coolant through the third flow path 2a of the heat exchanger 53. In addition, a fourth temperature sensor 51 is installed at the coolant outlet of the engine 48 to monitor the temperature of the coolant output from the engine 48 coolant outlet, which is typically water. The heater 41 can be an electric heater.

[0070] In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a third three-way valve 23. The first opening K of the third three-way valve 23 is connected to the inlet of the second radiator 24, and the second opening L of the third three-way valve 23 is connected to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit 21. The outlet of the second radiator 24 is connected to the fourth interface D of the four-way valve 16 via a fifth flow path 3a, and the third opening M of the third three-way valve 23 is connected to the fifth flow path 3a. A controller is signal-connected to the third three-way valve 23 to enable at least one of the heater 41 and the engine 48 to heat the battery pack 11 or both the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21.

[0071] In the above embodiments, specifically, the controller is signal-connected to the first three-way valve 15, the second three-way valve 45, the third three-way valve 23, and the four-way valve 16, respectively, so that at least one of the heater 41 and the engine 48 is used to heat the battery pack 11; or so that at least one of the heater 41 and the engine 48 is used to heat the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21, so that the thermal management system has a first heating condition and a second heating condition in the first heating mode, the second heating mode, and the third heating mode.

[0072] In the first heating condition, the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the second port B, and the first port A is connected to the third port C. The first three-way valve 15 connects the second port B of the four-way valve 16 to the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53, and the third three-way valve 23 connects the fourth port D to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit 21. In the first heating condition, the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 are connected in series, and at least one of the heater 41 and the engine 48 is used to heat the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21.

[0073] In the second heating condition, the first port A of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the second port B, and the third port C is connected to the fourth port D. The first three-way valve 15 connects the second port B of the four-way valve 16 to the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53. In the second heating condition, at least one of the heater 41 and the engine 48 is used to heat the battery pack 11.

[0074] The following is a detailed description of the connection paths of relevant devices in the thermal management system when it is in the first heating condition and the second heating condition. Specifically, the controller is connected to the first three-way valve 15, the second three-way valve 45, the third three-way valve 23, and the four-way valve 16.

[0075] The first heating mode, the second heating mode, and the third heating mode all have a first operating condition, such as... Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, under the first heating condition, the controller controls the four-way valve 16 to operate, so that the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the second port B, and the first port A is connected to the third port C. The controller also controls the first three-way valve 15 to operate, so that the second port B is connected to the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53. Finally, the controller controls the third three-way valve 23 to operate, so that the fourth port D is connected to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit 21. Under the first heating condition, the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 are connected in series. The battery pack 11, the battery pack 11 coolant outlet, the first port A of the four-way valve 16, the third port C of the four-way valve 16, the second water pump 211 of the electric drive unit 21, the motor controller 212, the hybrid box 213, the second opening L of the third three-way valve 23, the third opening M of the third three-way valve 23, the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16, the second port B of the four-way valve 16, the third valve port G of the first three-way valve 15, the first valve port E of the first three-way valve 15, the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53, the first water pump 13, and the coolant inlet of the battery pack 11 are connected in sequence to form a loop so that the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 can be heated simultaneously under the first heating condition.

[0076] It should be noted that in the first heating condition of the first heating mode, the controller can control the second three-way valve 45 to connect the third port J of the second three-way valve 45 with the first port H of the second three-way valve 45. The heater 41 is connected in series with the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53, and the heater 41 is used to heat the coolant flowing out of the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53. Thus, the heater 41 can be used to heat the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 simultaneously. In the first heating condition of the second heating mode, the controller can control the second three-way valve 45 to connect the third port J of the second three-way valve 45 with the second port I of the second three-way valve 45. The engine 48 is connected in series with the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53, and the engine 48 is used to heat the coolant flowing out of the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53. This allows the engine 48 to simultaneously heat the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21. In the first heating condition of the third heating mode, the controller can operate the second three-way valve 45 so that its third port J is connected to both its first port H and second port I. The third heat exchange path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected in series with the heater 41, and the third heat exchange path 531 is also connected in series with the engine 48. The heater 41 and the engine 48 can simultaneously heat the coolant in the third flow path 2a of the heat exchanger 53. Therefore, the engine 48 and the heater 41 can simultaneously heat the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21.

[0077] In addition, the first heating mode, the second heating mode, and the third heating mode all have a second operating condition, such as... Figure 9 , Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 As shown, under the second heating condition, the controller controls the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16 to operate, so that the first port A of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the second port B, and the fourth port D is connected to the third port C. The first three-way valve 15 connects the second port B of the four-way valve 16 to the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53, so that the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected in series with the battery pack 11 to heat the battery pack 11.

[0078] It should be noted that in the second heating condition of the first heating mode, the controller can control the second three-way valve 45 to connect the third port J of the second three-way valve 45 with the first port H of the second three-way valve 45. The heater 41 is connected in series with the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53, and the heater 41 is used to heat the coolant flowing out of the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53. Thus, the heater 41 can be used to heat the battery pack 11. In the second heating condition of the second heating mode, the controller can control the second three-way valve 45 to connect the third port J of the second three-way valve 45 with the second port I of the second three-way valve 45. The engine 48 is connected in series with the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53, and the engine 48 is used to heat the coolant flowing out of the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53. This allows the engine 48 to heat the battery pack 11. In the second heating condition of the third heating mode, the controller can operate the second three-way valve 45 so that its third port J is connected to both its first port H and second port I. The third heat exchange path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected in series with the heater 41, and the third heat exchange path 531 is also connected in series with the engine 48. The heater 41 and the engine 48 can simultaneously heat the coolant in the third flow path 2a of the heat exchanger 53. Therefore, the engine 48 and the heater 41 can simultaneously heat the battery pack 11.

[0079] In some implementations, when an unexpected situation occurs in a component or system that prevents the thermal management system from achieving its intended control objectives, the overall system safety of the vehicle can be ensured by disabling some heat-generating and heat-requiring units.

[0080] For example, when the temperature of the power battery is high, exceeding the target set value, the thermal management system will block the passenger compartment cooling request, actively close the first air conditioning shut-off valve 32 and the second air conditioning shut-off valve 39, and simultaneously increase the power of the compressor 35 in the compression cooling subsystem. The controller controls the four-way valve 16 and the first three-way valve 15 to activate them, so that the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the battery pack 11 and the battery cooler 18 is connected in series. The battery pack 11 is cooled through the battery cooler 18 and the compression cooling sub-circuit. The electric drive cycle is prohibited from continuing to operate. In addition, the operating state of the engine 48 can be actively adjusted to ensure that the power of the compressor 35 comes entirely from the engine 48, reducing the use of the battery pack 11. The electronic expansion valve 302 is opened to its maximum state to improve the cooling capacity of the battery pack 11.

[0081] It should be noted that the second three-way valve 45 can also be configured as a three-way proportional valve. Furthermore, the controller (not shown in the figure) can be the vehicle's on-board computer.

[0082] For ease of understanding, this disclosure is combined with the appendix Figures 1 to 11The cyclic process and principle of a thermal management system under different operating modes are illustrated by example.

[0083] Mode 1: First cooling mode. (e.g.) Figure 2 As shown, in this mode, the battery pack 11 and the first radiator 14 are connected in series. The controller controls the first port A of the four-way valve 16 to connect with the second port B, and the third port C of the four-way valve 16 to connect with the fourth port D. The controller controls the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 to connect with the second port F, and blocks the connection between the third port G and the first port E. This allows the battery pack 11 to connect with the first radiator 14 through the four-way valve 16 and the first three-way valve 15. The coolant outlet of the battery pack 11, the first port A of the four-way valve 16, the second port B of the four-way valve 16, the first radiator 14, the first water pump 13, and the coolant inlet of the battery pack 11 are sequentially connected to form a loop. Figure 2 As shown, the flow path of the coolant in the battery pack 11 is as follows: battery pack 11, coolant outlet of battery pack 11, first port A of four-way valve 16, second port B of four-way valve 16, third port G of first three-way valve 15, second port F of first three-way valve 15, first radiator 14, first water pump 13, coolant inlet of battery pack 11, back to battery pack 11. The coolant in the battery pack 11 circulates along this path. After the coolant carries the heat to the first radiator 14 for dissipation, it is then transported back to the battery pack 11 to continue circulating until the battery pack 11 is cooled to a suitable temperature. This cooling mode can be selected when the heat dissipation of the battery pack 11 is not large.

[0084] In this mode, the electric drive unit 21 can be cooled based on driving conditions. When the vehicle is in motion, the controller can connect the first opening K and the second opening L of the third three-way valve 23. The coolant flow path is: hybrid box 213, second opening L of the third three-way valve 23, first opening K of the third three-way valve 23, second radiator 24, fourth port D of the four-way valve 16, third port C of the four-way valve 16, second water pump 211, motor controller 212, and then back to the hybrid box 213, so that the electric drive unit 21 and the second radiator 24 are connected in series, allowing the second radiator 24 to cool the motor controller 212 in the electric drive unit 21 and the hybrid box 213. When the thermal management system is in the first cooling mode, the battery pack 11 can be cooled through the first radiator 14. When the vehicle is in motion, the electric drive unit 21 can be connected in series with the second radiator 24 to cool the electric drive unit 21. The first cooling mode can be used when driving in a medium-temperature environment. It uses a first radiator 14 to dissipate heat from the battery pack 11 and a second radiator 24 to dissipate heat from the electric drive unit 21. The medium-temperature environment temperature can be 0℃-25℃.

[0085] Mode 2: Second cooling mode. (e.g.) Figure 3 As shown, in this mode, the controller connects the second port B of the four-way valve 16 to the fourth port D, and the first port A to the third port C. Furthermore, the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the second port B, and the second port F of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first radiator 14. The controller controls the first three-way valve 15 to operate, thereby connecting the third port G and the second port F of the first three-way valve 15, and consequently connecting the second port B of the four-way valve 16 to the first radiator 14. The controller controls the third three-way valve 23 to operate, so that the second opening L and the first opening K of the third three-way valve 23 are connected, thereby connecting the first water pump 13, battery pack 11, first port A of four-way valve 16, third port C of four-way valve 16, second water pump 211, motor controller 212, hybrid box 213, second opening L of third three-way valve 23, first opening K of third three-way valve 23, second radiator 24, fourth port D of four-way valve 16, second port B of four-way valve 16, third port G of first three-way valve 15, second port F of first three-way valve 15, and first radiator 14 in sequence, and the outlet of the first radiator 14 is connected to the first water pump 13 to form a loop. In this mode, the coolant flow path in the thermal management system is as follows: battery pack 11, first port A of four-way valve 16, third port C of four-way valve 16, second water pump 211 of electric drive unit 21, motor controller 212, hybrid box 213, second opening L of third three-way valve 23, first opening K of third three-way valve 23, second radiator 24, fourth port D of four-way valve 16, second port B of four-way valve 16, third valve port G of first three-way valve 15, second valve port F of first three-way valve 15, first radiator 14, first water pump 13, and battery pack 11. In the second cooling mode, the first radiator 14 and the second radiator 24 are connected in series, which can dissipate heat from the battery pack 11, increasing the heat dissipation area of ​​the radiator and improving the heat dissipation efficiency. The second cooling mode of the thermal management system can be used when the vehicle is parked and powered on. In this mode, the vehicle is not moving, and the hybrid box 213 of the electric drive unit 21 is not operating. The battery pack 11 can be cooled simultaneously by the first radiator 14 and the second radiator 24. This second cooling mode can also be used when the vehicle is parked and charging in a medium-temperature environment. The medium-temperature environment can be 0℃-25℃.

[0086] Mode 3: Third cooling mode. (e.g.) Figure 4As shown, in this cooling mode, the controller controls the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16, so that the first port A of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the second port B of the four-way valve 16, and the third port C of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16. Furthermore, in this cooling mode, the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first port E, so that the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11 is connected to the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18, thereby cooling the battery pack 11 through the battery cooler 18 and the compression cooling subsystem. In this cooling mode, the flow path of the coolant in the battery pack 11 is: battery pack 11, coolant outlet of battery pack 11, first port A of the four-way valve 16, second port B of the four-way valve 16, third port G of the first three-way valve 15, first port E of the first three-way valve 15, first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18, first water pump 13, coolant inlet of the battery pack 11, battery pack 11. In this mode, the battery pack 11 dissipates heat quickly, rapidly reducing its temperature to a suitable level. The third cooling mode can be used when charging in high-temperature environments, which can be above 35°C.

[0087] Mode 4: Fourth cooling mode. (e.g.) Figure 5 As shown, in this mode, the controller controls the operation of the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16, so that the first port A of the four-way valve 16 is connected to the second port B, and the third port C is connected to the fourth port D. The third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first port E and the second port F, respectively. The coolant outlet of the battery pack 11 is connected to the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the first radiator 14 and the battery cooler 18 through the first three-way valve 15, so that the battery pack 11 can be cooled simultaneously through the first radiator 14, the compression cooling subsystem, and the battery cooler 18. In addition, the first three-way valve 15 is constructed as a three-way proportional valve. In this cooling mode, the coolant outlet of the battery pack 11, the first port A of the four-way valve 16, the second port B of the four-way valve 16, and the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 are connected in sequence. Then, the third port G of the first three-way valve 15 is connected to the first port E and the second port F of the first three-way valve 15 to form two branches. The branch connecting to the first valve port E is connected to the first water pump 13 via the first heat exchange flow path 181 of the battery cooler 18, and the branch connecting to the second valve port F is connected to the first water pump 13 via the first radiator 14. The first water pump 13 is then connected to the coolant inlet of the battery pack 11, thus forming a loop. In this cooling mode, the coolant in the battery pack 11 flows through this loop, such as... Figure 5As shown, the arrows indicate the coolant flow path in this mode. The battery pack 11 is cooled by the first radiator 14, the battery cooler 18, and the compression cooling subsystem. This mode can be applied when the cooling capacity of the first radiator 14 is insufficient to cool the battery pack 11 to a preset temperature range, in which case the battery cooler 18 and the compression cooling subsystem can share some of the pressure. At this time, the compressor 35 in the compression cooling subsystem can operate at a lower power, reducing energy consumption in the thermal management system. It should be noted that the compressor 35 can be powered by either the battery pack 11 or the engine 48.

[0088] Mode 5: First heating mode. (e.g.) Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, in this mode, the controller is connected to the first three-way valve 15, the third three-way valve 23, and the four-way valve 16 respectively. In the first heating mode, the heater 41 heats the battery pack 11 or the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21. As mentioned above, the system containing the engine 48 and the heater 41 can be defined as a heating subsystem. In the heating subsystem, the controller controls the first port H and the third port J of the second three-way valve 45 to connect, and controls the third water pump 42 to start. The third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected in series with the heater 41. The flow path of the coolant in the heating subsystem is: the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53, the third water pump 42, the heater 41, the first port H of the second three-way valve 45, the third port I of the second three-way valve 45, and the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53. Heater 41 heats the coolant in the third heat exchange flow path 531 of heat exchanger 53, thereby heating battery pack 11 or battery pack 11 and electric drive unit 21.

[0089] The first heating mode has a first heating condition and a second heating condition. In the first heating condition, as follows: Figure 6As shown, the controller connects the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16 to the second port B, and the first port A to the third port C. The controller also controls the first three-way valve 15 to connect the second port B of the four-way valve 16 to the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53. Furthermore, the controller controls the third three-way valve 23 to connect the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16 to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit 21. In the first heating condition of the first heating mode, the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 are connected in series. The battery pack 11, the battery pack 11 coolant outlet, the first port A of the four-way valve 16, the third port C of the four-way valve 16, the second water pump 211 of the electric drive unit 21, the motor controller 212, the hybrid box 213, the second opening L of the third three-way valve 23, the third opening M of the third three-way valve 23, the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16, the second port B of the four-way valve 16, the third valve port G of the first three-way valve 15, the first valve port E of the first three-way valve 15, the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53, the first water pump 13, and the battery pack 11 coolant outlet are connected in sequence to form a loop so that the heater 41 can heat the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 simultaneously under the first heating condition of the first heating mode of the thermal management system.

[0090] In the second heating condition, such as Figure 9 As shown, the controller controls the operation of the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16 to connect the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 in series with the battery pack 11. Specifically, the controller controls the first port A of the four-way valve 16 to connect with the second port B, and the third port C to connect with the fourth port D. The controller controls the third port G and the first port E of the first three-way valve 15 to connect, so that the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected to the battery pack 11 through the first three-way valve 15. The flow path of the coolant in this circuit is: coolant outlet of the power battery pack 11, first port A of the four-way valve 16, second port B of the four-way valve 16, third port G of the first three-way valve 15, first port E of the first three-way valve 15, fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53, first water pump 13, and coolant inlet of the battery pack 11. This allows the heater 41 to heat the battery pack 11 under the second heating condition of the first heating mode. The second heating condition of the first heating mode can be used when the battery is parked and charging. It is activated when the sensor detects that the ambient temperature is lower than the target temperature of the battery pack 11. For example, when the charging efficiency is between 50% and 60%, the target temperature is approximately greater than 0°C, while the detected ambient temperature is less than 0°C. The second heating condition of the first heating mode can then be used.

[0091] Mode 6: Second heating mode, such as Figure 7 and Figure 10As shown, the controller is connected to the first three-way valve 15, the third three-way valve 23, and the four-way valve 16 respectively. In the second heating mode, the engine 48 heats the battery pack 11 or the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21. As mentioned above, the system containing the engine 48 and the heater 41 can be defined as a heating subsystem. In the heating subsystem, the controller controls the third port J of the second three-way valve 45 to connect with the second port I, and controls the fourth water pump 49 to start. The thermostat 44 blocks the third radiator 43. The third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected in series with the engine 48. The flow path of the coolant in the heating subsystem is: the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53, the fourth water pump 49, the engine 48, the second port I of the second three-way valve 45, the third port J of the second three-way valve 45, and the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53.

[0092] The second heating mode has a first heating condition and a second heating condition. In the first heating condition, as follows... Figure 7 As shown, the controller connects the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16 to the second port B, and the first port A to the third port C. The controller also controls the first three-way valve 15 to connect the second port B of the four-way valve 16 to the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53. Furthermore, the controller controls the third three-way valve 23 to connect the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16 to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit 21. In the first heating condition of the second heating mode, the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 are connected in series. The battery pack 11, the battery pack 11 coolant outlet, the first port A of the four-way valve 16, the third port C of the four-way valve 16, the second water pump 211 of the electric drive unit 21, the motor controller 212, the hybrid box 213, the second opening L of the third three-way valve 23, the third opening M of the third three-way valve 23, the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16, the second port B of the four-way valve 16, the third valve port G of the first three-way valve 15, the first valve port E of the first three-way valve 15, the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53, the first water pump 13, and the battery pack 11 coolant outlet are connected in sequence to form a loop so that the thermal management system can enable the engine 48 to heat the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 simultaneously under the first heating condition of the second heating mode.

[0093] In the second heating condition, such as Figure 10As shown, the controller controls the operation of the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16 to connect the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 in series with the battery pack 11. Specifically, the controller controls the first port A of the four-way valve 16 to connect with the second port B, and the third port C to connect with the fourth port D. The controller controls the third port G and the first port E of the first three-way valve 15 to connect, so that the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected to the battery pack 11 through the first three-way valve 15. The flow path of the coolant in this circuit is: coolant outlet of the power battery pack 11, first port A of the four-way valve 16, second port B of the four-way valve 16, third port G of the first three-way valve 15, first port E of the first three-way valve 15, fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53, first water pump 13, and coolant inlet of the battery pack 11. This allows the thermal management system to enable the engine 48 to heat the battery pack 11 under the second heating condition of the second heating mode.

[0094] Mode 7: Third heating mode, such as Figure 8 and Figure 11 As shown, the controller is connected to the first three-way valve 15, the third three-way valve 23, and the four-way valve 16 respectively. In the third heating mode, the battery pack 11 or the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 are heated simultaneously through the engine 48 and the heater 41. As mentioned above, the system containing the engine 48 and the heater 41 can be defined as a heating subsystem. In the heating subsystem, the controller controls the third port J of the second three-way valve 45 to connect simultaneously with the first port H and the second port I, and the controller simultaneously controls the third water pump 42 and the fourth water pump 49 to start. The engine 48 and the heater 41 are connected in parallel, and both the engine 48 and the heater 41 are connected in series with the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53. The thermostat 44 blocks the third radiator 43. The flow path of the coolant in the heating subsystem is as follows: the coolant flowing out of the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53 is divided into two branches and flows to the heater 41 and the engine 48 respectively. After being heated by the heater 41 and the engine 48, the coolant merges and flows back into the third heat exchange flow path 531 of the heat exchanger 53, forming a cycle.

[0095] The third heating mode has a first heating condition and a second heating condition. Specifically, in the first heating condition, as... Figure 8As shown, the controller connects the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16 to the second port B, and the first port A to the third port C. The controller also controls the first three-way valve 15 to connect the second port B of the four-way valve 16 to the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53. Furthermore, the controller controls the third three-way valve 23 to connect the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16 to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit 21. In the first heating condition of the third heating mode, the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 are connected in series. The battery pack 11, the battery pack 11 coolant outlet, the first port A of the four-way valve 16, the third port C of the four-way valve 16, the second water pump 211 of the electric drive unit 21, the motor controller 212, the hybrid box 213, the second opening L of the third three-way valve 23, the third opening M of the third three-way valve 23, the fourth port D of the four-way valve 16, the second port B of the four-way valve 16, the third valve port G of the first three-way valve 15, the first valve port E of the first three-way valve 15, the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53, the first water pump 13, and the battery pack 11 coolant outlet are connected in sequence to form a loop, so that the thermal management system can enable the engine 48 and the heater 41 to heat the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21 simultaneously under the first heating condition of the third heating mode.

[0096] The first operating condition of the third heating mode can be used when driving in low temperatures. Low temperature can be defined as an ambient temperature below -10℃.

[0097] In the second heating condition, such as Figure 11 As shown, the controller controls the operation of the first three-way valve 15 and the four-way valve 16 to connect the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 in series with the battery pack 11. Specifically, the controller controls the first port A of the four-way valve 16 to connect with the second port B, and the third port C to connect with the fourth port D. The controller controls the third port G and the first port E of the first three-way valve 15 to connect, so that the fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53 is connected to the battery pack 11 through the first three-way valve 15. The flow path of the coolant in this circuit is: coolant outlet of the power battery pack 11, first port A of the four-way valve 16, second port B of the four-way valve 16, third port G of the first three-way valve 15, first port E of the first three-way valve 15, fourth heat exchange flow path 532 of the heat exchanger 53, first water pump 13, and coolant inlet of the battery pack 11. This allows the thermal management system to enable the engine 48 and the heater 41 to simultaneously heat the battery pack 11 under the second heating condition of the third heating mode. The second operating condition of the third heating mode can be used when the heater 41 cannot meet the heating requirements of the battery pack 11. For example, when the ambient temperature is too low and the heater 41 cannot meet the heating requirements of the battery pack 11, the battery pack 11 can be heated simultaneously by the engine 48 and the heater 41.

[0098] In summary, this thermal management system can achieve the following: using the first radiator 14 to dissipate heat from the battery pack 11; or using the compression cooling subsystem and the battery cooler 18 to dissipate heat from the battery pack 11; or using the first radiator 14 and the second radiator 24 to dissipate heat from the battery pack 11; or using the compression cooling subsystem, the battery cooler 18, and the first radiator 14 to dissipate heat from the battery pack 11; or using the heater 41 and / or the engine 48 to heat the battery pack 11; or using the heater 41 and / or the engine 48 to heat the battery pack 11 and the electric drive unit 21.

[0099] It should be noted that the above-mentioned operating modes are only the main operating modes of the thermal management system disclosed herein. Other operating modes that can be implemented based on this thermal management system still fall within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0100] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a vehicle including the thermal management system provided in the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0101] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the specific details of the above embodiments. Within the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solutions of this disclosure, and these simple modifications all fall within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0102] It should also be noted that the various specific technical features described in the above specific embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, this disclosure will not describe the various possible combinations separately.

[0103] Furthermore, various different embodiments of this disclosure can be combined in any way, as long as they do not violate the spirit of this disclosure, they should also be regarded as the content disclosed in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A thermal management system, characterized in that, The device includes a first radiator, a battery pack, a battery cooler, a first three-way valve, and a controller. The coolant outlet of the battery pack is connected to the inlet of the first radiator through a first flow path, and the coolant inlet of the battery pack is connected to the outlet of the first radiator through a second flow path. The first heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler is connected between the first flow path and the second flow path, and the second heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler is connected to the compression refrigeration subsystem. The first heat exchange flow path is connected to the first flow path through the first three-way valve. The controller is signal-connected to the first three-way valve so that at least one of the first radiator and the battery cooler is used for cooling the battery pack. The thermal management system further includes an electric drive unit, a four-way valve, and a second radiator. The four-way valve is disposed on the first flow path. The first port of the four-way valve is connected to the coolant outlet of the battery pack. The second port of the four-way valve is connected to the first three-way valve. The third port of the four-way valve is connected to the coolant inlet of the electric drive unit. The fourth port of the four-way valve is connected to the outlet of the second radiator. The inlet of the second radiator is connected to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit. The controller is signal-connected to the four-way valve. The thermal management system has a second cooling mode. In the second cooling mode, the second interface is connected to the fourth interface, the first interface is connected to the third interface, and the first three-way valve connects the second interface to the first radiator.

2. The thermal management system of claim 1, wherein, The thermal management system has a first cooling mode. In the first cooling mode, the first three-way valve connects the inlet of the first radiator to the coolant outlet of the battery pack and disconnects the first heat exchange path from the first flow path. The thermal management system has a third cooling mode, in which the first three-way valve connects the first heat exchange flow path to the coolant outlet of the battery pack and disconnects the connection between the inlet of the first radiator and the coolant outlet of the battery pack. The thermal management system has a fourth cooling mode, in which the first three-way valve connects the inlet of the first radiator and the first heat exchange flow path to the coolant outlet of the battery pack.

3. The thermal management system of claim 1, wherein, The thermal management system further includes a heat exchanger and a heater. The outlet of the heater is connected to the inlet of the third heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger through a third flow path. The inlet of the heater is connected to the outlet of the third heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger through a fourth flow path. The fourth heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger is connected in series with the first heat exchange flow path of the battery cooler between the first flow path and the second flow path.

4. The thermal management system of claim 3, wherein, The thermal management system further includes an engine connected in parallel with the heater between the third flow path and the fourth flow path. A second three-way valve is provided at the connection between the outlet of the heater and the third flow path. The controller is signal-connected to the second three-way valve so that at least one of the heater and the engine is used for heating the battery pack.

5. The thermal management system of claim 4, wherein, The thermal management system has a first heating mode. In the first heating mode, the second three-way valve connects the outlet of the heater to the inlet of the third heat exchange path and disconnects the coolant outlet of the engine from the inlet of the third heat exchange path. The thermal management system has a second heating mode. In the second heating mode, the second three-way valve connects the coolant outlet of the engine to the inlet of the third heat exchange path and disconnects the outlet of the heater from the inlet of the third heat exchange path. The thermal management system has a third heating mode, in which the second three-way valve connects the coolant outlet of the engine and the outlet of the heater to the inlet of the third heat exchange path.

6. The thermal management system of claim 4, wherein, The thermal management system further includes a third radiator, which is connected in parallel with the engine between the third flow path and the fourth flow path; A thermostat is provided on the third flow path, and the thermostat is located between the connection between the third radiator and the third flow path and the connection between the engine and the third flow path. Alternatively, a thermostat is provided on the fourth flow path, and the thermostat is located between the connection between the third radiator and the fourth flow path and the connection between the engine and the fourth flow path.

7. The thermal management system of claim 5, wherein, The thermal management system further includes a third three-way valve, the first opening of which is connected to the inlet of the second radiator, the second opening of which is connected to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit, the outlet of the second radiator being connected to the fourth interface of the four-way valve via a fifth flow path, the third opening of which is connected to the fifth flow path, and the controller being signal-connected to the third three-way valve so that at least one of the heater and the engine is used for heating the battery pack or the battery pack and the electric drive unit.

8. The thermal management system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thermal management system has a first heating condition and a second heating condition in the first heating mode, the second heating mode and the third heating mode. In the first heating condition, the fourth interface is connected to the second interface and the first interface is connected to the third interface. The first three-way valve connects the second interface to the fourth heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger and the third three-way valve connects the fourth interface to the coolant outlet of the electric drive unit. In the second heating condition, the first interface is connected to the second interface, and the third interface is connected to the fourth interface. The first three-way valve connects the second interface to the fourth heat exchange flow path of the heat exchanger.

9. A vehicle characterized by comprising: Includes the thermal management system as described in any one of claims 1-8.

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