Thermal management system of vehicle, control method of thermal management system, medium and computer equipment

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of thermal management of vehicles, and particularly provides a thermal management system of a vehicle and a control method thereof, a computer readable storage medium and computer equipment, the thermal management system comprises a first evaporator and a valve assembly, and the thermal management system can form at least one refrigerant circulation loop. The at least one refrigerant circulation loop comprises a first refrigerant circulation loop, the heat management system further comprises a refrigerant storage component capable of communicating with the refrigerant circulation loop, and the refrigerant storage component can form a refrigerant storage area used for storing refrigerants; the control method of the heat management system of the vehicle comprises the steps that the valve assembly is switched, so that the heat management system forms the first refrigerant circulation loop comprising the first evaporator, and at least one part of refrigerant of the first refrigerant circulation loop is migrated to the refrigerant storage area. With such a configuration, it is hopeful to effectively clean the first evaporator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle thermal management technology, specifically to a vehicle thermal management system and its control method, a computer-readable storage medium, and a computer device. Background Technology

[0002] To enhance the user (passenger) experience within the cabin, vehicles are typically equipped with heat pump systems (air source heat pump systems). Furthermore, for new energy vehicles such as electric vehicles, in addition to improving the passenger experience regarding temperature requirements, the heat pump system, as part of the vehicle's thermal management system, also fulfills other requirements such as maintaining the battery within a specific temperature range. A heat pump system mainly includes a compressor, condenser, evaporator, capillary tube, and throttling components such as an electronic expansion valve, forming a refrigerant circuit. The cooling or heating function of the heat pump system is achieved through the circulation of the refrigerant within the circuit.

[0003] For products like residential heat pump systems, the system also includes a four-way valve. By switching the connection mode of the four-way valve (e.g., different connection modes for energized and de-energized conditions), the indoor heat exchanger, which exchanges heat with the indoor space, can switch between evaporator and condenser when forming the refrigerant circuit. In this way, switching the function of the indoor heat exchanger allows the heat pump system to switch between cooling and heating modes. However, for automotive heat pump systems, the evaporator and internal condenser are independent components; typically, the evaporator cannot function as a condenser.

[0004] Whether in residential or automotive heat pump systems, the evaporator in the refrigerant circuit operates at a low temperature, often leading to the following common problems: condensation on the surface causes frost / ice buildup on the evaporator; prolonged disuse allows bacteria to easily grow on the evaporator; and a humid environment can cause the evaporator to produce a distinctive odor. These problems all negatively impact user health to some extent. Therefore, cleaning the evaporator, including defrosting, sterilization, disinfection, and drying, is quite necessary.

[0005] As mentioned earlier, for residential heat pump systems, cleaning the evaporator can be achieved by switching the connection mode of the four-way valve. Specifically, by switching the evaporator to function as a condenser and raising its temperature to above 50°C (e.g., 56°C), cleaning can be performed to ensure its performance. However, for automotive heat pump systems, since the evaporator cannot be switched to a condenser, it is difficult to raise the evaporator temperature in the refrigerant circuit to the aforementioned level of above 50°C. Therefore, there is room for improvement in how to effectively clean the evaporator of automotive heat pump systems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application aims to solve at least part of the above-mentioned technical problems and / or at least part of the above-mentioned technical problems, specifically, how to effectively perform the necessary cleaning treatment on the evaporator of an automotive heat pump system.

[0007] In a first aspect, this application provides a vehicle thermal management system, the thermal management system including a first evaporator and a refrigerant storage component, the thermal management system being capable of forming at least one refrigerant circulation loop, wherein the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a first refrigerant circulation loop containing the first evaporator; wherein the refrigerant storage component is capable of forming a refrigerant storage area for storing refrigerant, and the refrigerant storage component is capable of communicating with the refrigerant circulation loop.

[0008] This configuration allows for the temporary storage of a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop within the refrigerant storage area, effectively keeping the loop in a refrigerant-deficient state. This, in turn, increases the temperature of the first evaporator. Furthermore, it enables efficient cleaning of the first evaporator.

[0009] It is understandable that the refrigerant temporarily stored in the refrigerant storage area, the storage time, etc., can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs. In addition to the refrigerant storage components, the refrigerant storage area may also need to include necessary piping, sealing structures, temperature control structures (such as fans), etc., which can also be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs by those skilled in the art.

[0010] In one possible implementation of the above-mentioned thermal management system, the thermal management system includes a compressor and a first air conditioning unit, the first air conditioning unit including a condenser and a first evaporator, wherein the compressor, the condenser, the first evaporator and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop.

[0011] This configuration provides a possible form for the first refrigerant circulation loop.

[0012] In one possible implementation of the above-mentioned thermal management system, (1) the first air conditioning unit includes a temperature damper that can be positioned to block airflow from the first evaporator to the condenser; and / or (2) the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a third refrigerant circulation loop, the condenser is configured with a second bypass branch, and the compressor, the second bypass branch and the downstream side of the condenser form the third refrigerant circulation loop that does not flow through the condenser.

[0013] This configuration minimizes heat loss as the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor flows through the condenser.

[0014] In one possible implementation of the above-mentioned thermal management system, a first electronic expansion valve is provided between the condenser and the first evaporator, wherein the opening degree of the first electronic expansion valve is not less than a preset opening degree when it is in a throttling state.

[0015] This configuration allows for a reduction in the refrigerant evaporation pressure as little as possible, thereby increasing the temperature of the first evaporator.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the above-mentioned thermal management system, a first bypass branch is provided between the compressor's exhaust port and return port, and the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a second refrigerant circulation loop, wherein the compressor's exhaust port, the first bypass branch, and the compressor's return port form the second refrigerant circulation loop.

[0017] With this configuration, it is possible to utilize the superheat of the compressor's exhaust gas to increase the temperature rise rate of the first evaporator.

[0018] In one possible implementation of the above-mentioned thermal management system, the refrigerant storage component can be connected to the refrigerant storage component on the inlet side or outlet side of the condenser.

[0019] This configuration provides a possible connection point between the refrigerant storage area and the first refrigerant circulation loop.

[0020] In one possible implementation of the above-mentioned thermal management system, the refrigerant storage component is a heat exchange component included in the thermal management system; or it is an additional refrigerant storage component configured in the thermal management system.

[0021] This configuration illustrates possible forms for the refrigerant storage component. The additional refrigerant storage component can function solely as the refrigerant storage component in the thermal management system, or it can perform other functions in addition to this.

[0022] In a second aspect, this application provides a control method for a vehicle's thermal management system, the thermal management system including a first evaporator and a valve assembly, the thermal management system capable of forming at least one refrigerant circulation loop, the at least one refrigerant circulation loop including a first refrigerant circulation loop, the thermal management system further including a refrigerant storage component capable of communicating with the refrigerant circulation loop, the refrigerant storage component capable of forming a refrigerant storage area for storing refrigerant; the control method for the vehicle's thermal management system includes: switching the valve assembly so that: the thermal management system forms the first refrigerant circulation loop including the first evaporator, and at least a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop migrates to the refrigerant storage area.

[0023] With this configuration, it is possible to raise the temperature of the first evaporator by operating the heat pump system in a refrigerant-deficient state.

[0024] It is understandable that those skilled in the art can determine the number, type, and location of valves included in a valve assembly based on actual needs.

[0025] In one possible implementation of the above control method, the thermal management system includes a compressor and a first air conditioning unit, the first air conditioning unit includes a condenser and a first evaporator, the valve assembly includes a first electronic expansion valve, and the phrase "switching the valve assembly so as to: enable the thermal management system to form a first refrigerant circulation loop including the first evaporator" includes: opening the first electronic expansion valve so that: the compressor, the condenser, the first electronic expansion valve, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop.

[0026] This configuration allows for effective cleaning of the first evaporator inside the front air conditioner.

[0027] In one possible implementation of the above control method, (1) the first air conditioning unit includes a temperature damper. Before, simultaneously with, or after "opening the first electronic expansion valve so that the compressor, the condenser, the first electronic expansion valve, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop", the control method includes: positioning the temperature damper in a position capable of blocking airflow from the first evaporator to the condenser; and / or (2) the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a third refrigerant circulation loop, the condenser is configured with a second bypass branch, and the valve assembly includes an eighth valve disposed on the second bypass branch. Before, simultaneously with, or after "opening the first electronic expansion valve so that the compressor, the condenser, the first electronic expansion valve, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop", the control method includes: opening the eighth valve, thereby allowing at least a portion of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to flow downstream of the condenser via the second bypass branch, thereby: forming the third refrigerant circulation loop that does not flow through the condenser.

[0028] This configuration minimizes heat loss as the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor flows through the condenser. Parameters such as the opening degree and opening duration of the eighth valve can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs.

[0029] In one possible implementation of the above control method, "opening the first electronic expansion valve" includes: putting the first electronic expansion valve in a throttling state and ensuring that the opening degree of the first electronic expansion valve is not less than a preset opening degree.

[0030] This configuration allows for a reduction in the refrigerant evaporation pressure as little as possible, thereby increasing the temperature of the first evaporator.

[0031] In one possible implementation of the above control method, the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a second refrigerant circulation loop, a first bypass branch is provided between the compressor's exhaust port and return port, the valve assembly includes a fourth electronic expansion valve disposed in the first bypass branch, and the phrase "switching the valve assembly so as to: enable the thermal management system to form the first refrigerant circulation loop including the first evaporator" includes: opening the fourth electronic expansion valve so as to: enable the compressor's exhaust port, the fourth electronic expansion valve, and the compressor's return port to form the second refrigerant circulation loop.

[0032] With this configuration, it is possible to utilize the superheat of the compressor's exhaust gas to increase the temperature rise rate of the first evaporator.

[0033] In one possible implementation of the above control method, "migrating at least a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop to the refrigerant storage area" includes: migrating at least a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop to the refrigerant storage component before flowing through the condenser; or migrating at least a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop to the refrigerant storage component after flowing through the condenser.

[0034] In one possible implementation of the above control method, the refrigerant storage component is a heat exchange component included in the thermal management system; or an additional refrigerant storage component configured in the thermal management system.

[0035] In a third aspect, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium including a memory adapted to store a plurality of program codes adapted to be loaded and run by a processor to perform the aforementioned control method for a vehicle's thermal management system.

[0036] It is understood that the computer-readable storage medium has all the technical effects of the aforementioned control method for the vehicle's thermal management system, which will not be elaborated here.

[0037] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can take many forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application may include at least one type of relational database and non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include, but are not limited to, blockchain-based distributed databases. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application may be general-purpose processors, central processing units, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, quantum computing-based data processing logic devices, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0038] Those skilled in the art will understand that the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both.

[0039] To demonstrate the interchangeability between hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been generally described above according to their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the overall system. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functionality in varying ways for specific applications; however, such implementation decisions should not be construed as departing from the scope of this application.

[0040] In a fourth aspect, this application provides a computer device including a memory and a processor, the memory being adapted to store a plurality of program codes, the program codes being adapted to be loaded and run by the processor to perform the aforementioned control method for the thermal management system of a vehicle.

[0041] It is understood that this device possesses all the technical effects of the aforementioned vehicle thermal management system control method, which will not be elaborated upon here. This device can be a computer-controlled device comprising various electronic devices.

[0042] The computer device may include a processor, memory, input / output interfaces, a communication interface, a display unit, and an input device. The processor, memory, and input / output interfaces are connected via a system bus, and the communication interface, display unit, and input device are also connected to the system bus via the input / output interfaces. The processor provides computational and control capabilities. The memory includes non-volatile storage media and internal memory. The non-volatile storage media stores the operating system and computer programs. The internal memory provides an environment for the operation of the operating system and computer programs stored in the non-volatile storage media. The input / output interfaces are used for exchanging information between the processor and external devices. The communication interface is used for wired or wireless communication with external terminals; wireless communication can be achieved through Wi-Fi, mobile cellular networks, NFC (Near Field Communication), or other technologies. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements a control method for a vehicle's thermal management system. The display unit is used to form a visually visible image and may be a display screen, a projection device, or a virtual reality imaging device, etc. The display screen can be an LCD screen or an e-ink screen, etc. The input device of the computer device can be a touch layer covering the display screen, or buttons, trackballs or touchpads set on the computer device casing, or external keyboards, touchpads or mice, etc.

[0043] Proposal 1. A thermal management system for a vehicle, characterized in that the thermal management system includes a first evaporator and a refrigerant storage component, and the thermal management system is capable of forming at least one refrigerant circulation loop.

[0044] Wherein, the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a first refrigerant circulation loop containing the first evaporator;

[0045] The refrigerant storage component is capable of forming a refrigerant storage area for storing refrigerant, and

[0046] The refrigerant storage component can be connected to the refrigerant circulation loop.

[0047] Proposal 2. The thermal management system according to Proposal 1, characterized in that the thermal management system includes a compressor and a first air conditioning unit, the first air conditioning unit including a condenser and a first evaporator.

[0048] The compressor, the condenser, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop.

[0049] Proposal 3. The thermal management system according to Proposal 2, characterized in that,

[0050] (1) The first air conditioning unit includes a temperature damper, which is capable of being in a position that blocks wind from reaching the condenser from the first evaporator;

[0051] And / or

[0052] (2) The at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a third refrigerant circulation loop, and the condenser is equipped with a second bypass branch.

[0053] The compressor, the second bypass branch, and the downstream side of the condenser form the third refrigerant circulation loop that does not flow through the condenser.

[0054] Proposal 4. The thermal management system according to Proposal 2, characterized in that a first electronic expansion valve is provided between the condenser and the first evaporator.

[0055] Wherein, when the first electronic expansion valve is in a throttling state, its opening degree is not less than a preset opening degree.

[0056] Proposal 5. The thermal management system according to any one of Proposals 2 to 4, characterized in that a first bypass branch is provided between the exhaust port and the return port of the compressor, and the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a second refrigerant circulation loop.

[0057] The compressor's exhaust port, the first bypass branch, and the compressor's return port form the second refrigerant circulation loop.

[0058] Proposal 6. The thermal management system according to Proposal 2, characterized in that the refrigerant storage component can be connected to the refrigerant storage component on the inlet side or outlet side of the condenser.

[0059] Proposal 7. The thermal management system according to Proposal 1, characterized in that the refrigerant storage component is a heat exchange component included in the thermal management system; or

[0060] Additional refrigerant storage components configured in the thermal management system.

[0061] Proposal 8. A control method for a vehicle's thermal management system, characterized in that the thermal management system includes a first evaporator and a valve assembly, the thermal management system being capable of forming at least one refrigerant circulation loop, the at least one refrigerant circulation loop including a first refrigerant circulation loop.

[0062] The thermal management system also includes a refrigerant storage component that can be connected to the refrigerant circulation loop, and the refrigerant storage component can form a refrigerant storage area for storing refrigerant.

[0063] The control method for the vehicle's thermal management system includes:

[0064] Switch the valve assembly so that:

[0065] The thermal management system forms a first refrigerant circulation loop including the first evaporator, and

[0066] At least a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop is migrated to the refrigerant storage area.

[0067] Proposal 9. The control method according to Proposal 8, characterized in that the thermal management system includes a compressor and a first air conditioning unit, the first air conditioning unit including a condenser and a first evaporator.

[0068] The valve assembly includes a first electronic expansion valve.

[0069] The phrase "switching the valve assembly so as to: enable the thermal management system to form a first refrigerant circulation loop including the first evaporator" includes:

[0070] The first electronic expansion valve is opened so that:

[0071] The compressor, the condenser, the first electronic expansion valve, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop.

[0072] Proposal 10. The control method according to Proposal 9, characterized in that,

[0073] (1) The first air conditioning unit includes a temperature damper. Before, simultaneously with, or after "opening the first electronic expansion valve so that the compressor, the condenser, the first electronic expansion valve, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop", the control method includes:

[0074] The temperature damper is positioned to block airflow from the first evaporator to the condenser.

[0075] And / or

[0076] (2) The at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a third refrigerant circulation loop, the condenser is configured with a second bypass branch, and the valve assembly includes an eighth valve disposed on the second bypass branch. Before, simultaneously with, or after "opening the first electronic expansion valve so that: the compressor, the condenser, the first electronic expansion valve, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop," the control method includes:

[0077] The eighth valve is opened, thereby allowing at least a portion of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to flow downstream of the condenser via the second bypass branch, and thus:

[0078] This forms the third refrigerant circulation loop that does not flow through the condenser.

[0079] Proposal 11. The control method according to Proposal 9, characterized in that "opening the first electronic expansion valve" includes:

[0080] The first electronic expansion valve is placed in a throttling state, and the opening degree of the first electronic expansion valve is not less than the preset opening degree.

[0081] Proposal 12. The control method according to any one of Proposals 9 to 11, characterized in that the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a second refrigerant circulation loop, and a first bypass branch is provided between the compressor's discharge port and return port.

[0082] The valve assembly includes a fourth electronic expansion valve disposed in the first bypass branch, and the phrase "switching the valve assembly so as to: enable the thermal management system to form a first refrigerant circulation loop including the first evaporator" includes:

[0083] The fourth electronic expansion valve is opened so that:

[0084] The compressor's exhaust port, the fourth electronic expansion valve, and the compressor's return port form the second refrigerant circulation loop.

[0085] Proposal 13. The control method according to Proposal 9, characterized in that "causing at least a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop to migrate to the refrigerant storage area" includes:

[0086] At least a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop migrates to the refrigerant storage component before flowing through the condenser; or

[0087] This causes at least a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop to migrate to the refrigerant storage component after flowing through the condenser.

[0088] Proposal 14. The control method according to Proposal 8, characterized in that the refrigerant storage component is a heat exchange component included in the thermal management system; or

[0089] Additional refrigerant storage components configured in the thermal management system.

[0090] Proposal 15. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that the storage medium includes a memory adapted to store a plurality of program codes.

[0091] The program code is adapted to be loaded and run by a processor to perform a control method for the thermal management system of a vehicle as described in any one of Proposals 8 to 14.

[0092] Proposal 16. A computer device, characterized in that the device includes a memory and a processor, the memory being adapted to store multiple lines of program code.

[0093] The program code is adapted to be loaded and run by the processor to perform a control method for the thermal management system of a vehicle as described in any one of Proposals 8 to 14. Attached Figure Description

[0094] The present application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and the implementation method of temporarily storing a portion of the refrigerant in the outdoor heat exchanger. In the drawings:

[0095] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the principle of a vehicle thermal management system according to an embodiment of this application.

[0096] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the control method for a vehicle's thermal management system according to a first embodiment of this application; and

[0097] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the control method for the thermal management system of a vehicle according to a second embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0098] Preferred embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. For example, although this embodiment is described in conjunction with a specific valve and its corresponding location, it is obvious that those skilled in the art can adjust the type of valve and its specific location, such as replacing a one-way valve with a two-way valve, a three-way valve, etc.

[0099] It should be noted that in the description of this application, terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," indicating directions or positional relationships, are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are used merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation; therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0100] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "setup," and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0101] Furthermore, to better illustrate this application, numerous specific details are provided in the following detailed embodiments. Those skilled in the art should understand that this application can be implemented even without certain specific details. In some instances, the structure and principles of heat pump systems well-known to those skilled in the art (such as heat pump systems also including...) are described. Figure 1 The pressure / temperature sensor shown in the figure, based on the pressure / temperature detection results at the corresponding location, adjusts the vehicle's thermal management through the valve assembly, etc., but is not described in detail in order to highlight the subject matter of this application.

[0102] Main reference Figure 1In one possible implementation, the vehicle's thermal management system mainly includes a compressor, a first air conditioning unit (such as the front air conditioning unit), a second air conditioning unit (such as the rear air conditioning unit), an ACCU (air-liquid separator), an outside heat exchanger (OHX), a battery cooler, a battery thermal management circulation pump, and a valve assembly. The front air conditioning unit is equipped with a temperature damper and includes a first evaporator (such as the front evaporator) and an inner condenser. The rear air conditioning unit includes a second evaporator (such as the rear-front evaporator) and is equipped with a power supply (PTC). A controller is provided for the coolant piping corresponding to the battery cooler. In addition to the battery cooler, other components in the vehicle thermal management system that can exchange heat with the refrigerant to achieve temperature regulation can also be other components with the potential for heat exchange (such as heat-generating components with recoverable waste heat / residual heat, components that have requirements for the working area and therefore need to provide heat to / recover heat from it), such as motor coolers.

[0103] In one possible implementation, the valve assembly mainly includes:

[0104] (1) The first valve assembly mainly includes an electronic expansion valve (EXV) group for throttling. In this example, the electronic expansion valve group includes four electronic expansion valves, which are respectively referred to as the first electronic expansion valve (EVAP EXV, which throttles the refrigerant before it flows into the first evaporator), the second expansion valve (OHX EXV, which throttles the refrigerant before it flows into the outdoor heat exchanger), the third electronic expansion valve (Chiller EXV, which throttles the refrigerant before it flows into the battery cooler) and the fourth electronic expansion valve (Bypass EXV, a compressor bypass electronic expansion valve, which is located on the first bypass branch between the compressor's exhaust port and return port, and is used to throttle the refrigerant at the compressor's exhaust port and then introduce it back into the compressor's return port (via the gas-liquid separator).

[0105] (2) The second valve assembly mainly includes:

[0106] (21) The first to third valves, as in this example, are three multi-functional valves that can realize functions such as shut-off, full-flow, and throttling. They can also be called large-diameter electronic expansion valves (Electronic Refrigerant Valve, ERV), such as ERV to OHX (located between the compressor's discharge port and the outdoor heat exchanger), OHX offERV (located between the outdoor heat exchanger and the compressor's return port), and ERV to ICND (located between the compressor's discharge port and the condenser).

[0107] (22) The fourth to sixth valves, as in this example, are three check valves, denoted as CV1, CV2 and one-way valve respectively. CV1 and CV2 are connected in series on the pipeline between the condenser and the outdoor heat exchanger, and they allow refrigerant to flow in opposite directions. The one-way valve is located between the second evaporator and the battery cooler.

[0108] (23) The seventh valve, in this example, is a thermostatic expansion valve SO-TXV with on / off function, located on the upstream side of the second evaporator.

[0109] Based on the above structure, this application allows for the control of the valve assembly to achieve cleaning of the first evaporator. Since the second evaporator is equipped with a PTC (Power Transmitter), cleaning of the second evaporator can be achieved by using the PTC for auxiliary heating. The valve can be controlled using any suitable controller, such as a controller separately configured in the thermal management system or a vehicle controller.

[0110] Example 1

[0111] Main reference Figure 2 In one possible implementation, when cleaning of the first evaporator is required, the valve assembly is controlled as follows:

[0112] On the one hand, it opens the OHX EXV, thereby allowing some of the refrigerant in the system to migrate to the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0113] On the other hand, ERV to ICD, CV1, EVAP EXV, One-way valve, and Bypass EXV are opened, while other valves are closed. At this time, the refrigerant circulation loop includes:

[0114] The first branch (first refrigerant circulation loop): Compressor → ERV to ICD → Inner condenser → CV1 → EVAP EXV → Evaporator1 → One-way valve → ACCU → Compressor. Based on this branch, a basic circuit is formed: compressor → condenser → first evaporator → compressor.

[0115] The second branch (second refrigerant circulation loop): Compressor → bypass EXV → ACCU → Compressor. Based on this branch, by directly throttling the refrigerant discharged from the compressor and then returning it to the compressor via a gas-liquid separator, the temperature rise rate of the first evaporator can be accelerated, thereby reaching the target temperature for clean processing. The opening degree of the Bypass EXV should meet the maximum limit of the low-pressure circulation within the system, and also ensure that the compressor's discharge temperature does not exceed the system's maximum design temperature.

[0116] By opening the OHX EXV, a portion of the refrigerant in the system is transferred to the outdoor heat exchanger, where it is temporarily stored in both gaseous and liquid states. In this example, the outdoor heat exchanger acts as a refrigerant storage component, forming a refrigerant storage area. Thus, when the first refrigerant circulation loop is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger, a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop (which also belongs to the second refrigerant circulation loop) can be transferred from the first refrigerant circulation loop to the outdoor heat exchanger, temporarily preventing it from participating in the refrigerant circulation flowing through the first evaporator. Specifically, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor becomes a low-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant after being throttled by the first electronic expansion valve, and then enters the interior of the outdoor heat exchanger via the OHX EXV. At this time, the refrigerant temperature is still higher than the external ambient temperature. Preferably, by operating the front-end fan (Fan) located on the outdoor heat exchanger, the refrigerant is cooled into both gaseous and liquid states and then temporarily stored inside the outdoor heat exchanger. If the refrigerant needs to maintain a continuous migration state to ensure the refrigerant circulation loop operates continuously in a refrigerant-deficient state, it can be shut off once the temperature of the first evaporator reaches the set target temperature (e.g., 56°C). Alternatively, parameters such as the migration amount and duration can be adjusted to ensure the evaporator remains at the target temperature during cleaning, or within a temperature range that guarantees its cleaning performance.

[0117] Based on this, a refrigerant-deficient state is created within the first refrigerant circulation loop. This causes all the refrigerant in the system to circulate in the superheated zone, thus increasing the temperature rise of the first evaporator based on refrigerant circulation. In other words, by controlling refrigerant migration, the basic conditions for increasing the temperature rise of the first evaporator are created. Furthermore, by opening the Bypass EXV, the superheat of the compressor discharge can be used to assist in heating the refrigerant in the system, thereby increasing the temperature rise rate of the first evaporator.

[0118] The goal of the compressor is to provide energy for the first evaporator to reach the set target temperature. The speed at which the temperature rises to the target temperature can be adjusted by controlling the compressor's speed; specifically, the higher the compressor speed, the faster the first evaporator reaches the target temperature.

[0119] Furthermore, to ensure the temperature quality required for the first evaporator to achieve its cleaning process, heat loss from the refrigerant should be minimized as much as possible before it enters the throttling device (EVAP-EXV) of the first evaporator. This can be achieved through methods such as:

[0120] (1) Use a temperature damper to prevent the air carrying cold energy from entering the condenser and other components in the front air conditioning unit. Specifically, by setting the temperature damper to the attitude corresponding to the cooling mode (isolating the condenser and the first evaporator), the air near the surface of the first evaporator is prevented from reaching the condenser as much as possible, thereby minimizing heat loss of the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor when it flows through the condenser.

[0121] (2) A second bypass branch is configured for the condenser, such as the second bypass branch being located between the inlet and outlet sides of the condenser. The valve assembly also includes an eighth valve, such as a shut-off valve, located on the second bypass branch, so that: by opening the eighth valve, at least a portion of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor is allowed to flow downstream via the second bypass branch, bypassing the condenser (not flowing through the condenser), such as flowing to the first evaporator and compressor via the first electronic expansion valve on the downstream side, thereby forming a third refrigerant circulation loop to reduce heat loss due to heat exchange between the condenser and the cabin space.

[0122] (3) Increase the opening degree of EVAP-EXV as much as possible to minimize the reduction in refrigerant evaporation pressure, thereby maintaining a high surface temperature level of the evaporator. For example, ensure that the opening degree of EVAP-EXV is not less than a preset opening degree, such as a value between 80% and 90%. For example, keep EVAP-EXV at 100% full opening while ensuring it is in a throttling state to guarantee the thermodynamic cycle corresponding to the refrigerant phase change.

[0123] Example 2

[0124] Main reference Figure 3 Similar to Example 1, this example also employs a method of migrating a portion of the refrigerant to the outdoor heat exchanger. However, the two examples use two different migration paths and timings. Specifically, in Example 1, a portion of the refrigerant is migrated to the outdoor heat exchanger after flowing through the internal condenser. In this example, the migration occurs before the refrigerant flows through the internal condenser, with the migration method being roughly the same. For instance, in Example 1, after the refrigerant flows through the internal condenser, a portion of the refrigerant in the system is migrated to the outdoor heat exchanger by opening the OHX EXV. In this example, the OHX EXV is closed, and before the refrigerant flows through the internal condenser, a portion of the refrigerant in the system is migrated to the outdoor heat exchanger by opening the ERV to OHX (in the throttling stage).

[0125] Besides relocating the refrigerant to the outdoor heat exchanger, it can also be relocated to other refrigerant storage components that can connect to the refrigerant circulation loop, such as battery coolers, secondary evaporators, or additional liquid storage mechanisms installed on the pipeline. Taking relocation to the secondary evaporator as an example, a portion of the refrigerant can be relocated into the secondary evaporator by opening SO-TXV.

[0126] As can be seen, in the preferred embodiment of this application, by temporarily migrating a portion of the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation loop to the inner part, the refrigerant in the refrigerant circulation loop operates in the superheated zone. This is expected to increase the temperature of the evaporator (first evaporator), thereby enabling effective self-cleaning. Simultaneously, by configuring first / second bypass branches for the compressor / condenser and switching the attitude of the temperature damper, it is further ensured that the first evaporator can reach a temperature more suitable for cleaning.

[0127] The technical solutions of this application have been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of this application is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of this application, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after these changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A thermal management system for a vehicle, characterized in that, The thermal management system includes a first evaporator and a refrigerant storage component, and the thermal management system is capable of forming at least one refrigerant circulation loop. Wherein, the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a first refrigerant circulation loop containing the first evaporator; The refrigerant storage component is capable of forming a refrigerant storage area for storing refrigerant, and The refrigerant storage component can be connected to the refrigerant circulation loop.

2. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal management system includes a compressor and a first air conditioning unit, the first air conditioning unit including a condenser and a first evaporator. The compressor, the condenser, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop.

3. The thermal management system according to claim 2, characterized in that, (1) The first air conditioning unit includes a temperature damper, which is capable of being in a position that blocks wind from reaching the condenser from the first evaporator; And / or (2) The at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a third refrigerant circulation loop, and the condenser is equipped with a second bypass branch. The compressor, the second bypass branch, and the downstream side of the condenser form the third refrigerant circulation loop that does not flow through the condenser.

4. The thermal management system according to claim 2, characterized in that, A first electronic expansion valve is provided between the condenser and the first evaporator. Wherein, when the first electronic expansion valve is in a throttling state, its opening degree is not less than a preset opening degree.

5. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, A first bypass branch is provided between the compressor's discharge port and return port, and the at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a second refrigerant circulation loop. The compressor's exhaust port, the first bypass branch, and the compressor's return port form the second refrigerant circulation loop.

6. The thermal management system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The refrigerant storage component can be connected to the refrigerant storage component on the inlet side or outlet side of the condenser.

7. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cold storage component is a heat exchange component included in the thermal management system; or Additional refrigerant storage components configured in the thermal management system.

8. A control method for a vehicle's thermal management system, characterized in that, The thermal management system includes a first evaporator and a valve assembly, and is capable of forming at least one refrigerant circulation loop, the at least one refrigerant circulation loop including the first refrigerant circulation loop. The thermal management system also includes a refrigerant storage component that can be connected to the refrigerant circulation loop, and the refrigerant storage component can form a refrigerant storage area for storing refrigerant. The control method for the vehicle's thermal management system includes: Switch the valve assembly so that: The thermal management system forms a first refrigerant circulation loop including the first evaporator, and At least a portion of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circulation loop is migrated to the refrigerant storage area.

9. The control method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The thermal management system includes a compressor and a first air conditioning unit, the first air conditioning unit including a condenser and a first evaporator. The valve assembly includes a first electronic expansion valve. The phrase "switching the valve assembly so as to: enable the thermal management system to form a first refrigerant circulation loop including the first evaporator" includes: The first electronic expansion valve is opened so that: The compressor, the condenser, the first electronic expansion valve, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop.

10. The control method according to claim 9, characterized in that, (1) The first air conditioning unit includes a temperature damper. Before, simultaneously with, or after "opening the first electronic expansion valve so that the compressor, the condenser, the first electronic expansion valve, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop", the control method includes: The temperature damper is positioned to block airflow from the first evaporator to the condenser. And / or (2) The at least one refrigerant circulation loop includes a third refrigerant circulation loop, the condenser is configured with a second bypass branch, and the valve assembly includes an eighth valve disposed on the second bypass branch. Before, simultaneously with, or after "opening the first electronic expansion valve so that: the compressor, the condenser, the first electronic expansion valve, the first evaporator, and the compressor form the first refrigerant circulation loop," the control method includes: The eighth valve is opened, thereby allowing at least a portion of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor to flow downstream of the condenser via the second bypass branch, and thus: This forms the third refrigerant circulation loop that does not flow through the condenser.

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