Thermal management method of electric drive system, vehicle and computer readable storage medium

By intelligently switching the thermal management mode of the electric drive system and adjusting the cooling system components, the problem of low oil temperature in the electric drive system under low temperature conditions has been solved, thereby improving overall efficiency and the electric vehicle's range.

CN121749633APending Publication Date: 2026-03-27CHERY AUTOMOBILE CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-12-18
Publication Date
2026-03-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional electric drive systems have low coolant and oil temperatures at low loads or during the initial startup phase, which increases oil viscosity, increases oil churning losses, and affects overall efficiency.

Method used

By collecting temperature values ​​from the electric drive system and thermal management system, the system intelligently switches between active cooling mode and self-circulation mode, and adjusts the duty cycle of the cooling water pump, air intake grille, and cooling fan to precisely control the temperature of the electric drive system.

Benefits of technology

This allows the electric drive system to operate within its optimal temperature range, reducing oil churning losses and improving energy efficiency and the range of electric vehicles.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a thermal management method of an electric drive system, a vehicle and a computer readable storage medium, and relates to the technical field of vehicles. The method comprises the steps that a first temperature value and a second temperature value are collected, the first temperature value is used for recording the temperature of an electric drive system of a vehicle, the second temperature value is used for recording the temperature of a water inlet of a thermal management system, and the thermal management system is used for conducting temperature control on the electric drive system; determining a to-be-switched electric drive system thermal management mode based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value; and adjusting the energy consumption of the electric drive system according to the electric drive system thermal management mode. The technical problem that the overall efficiency of an electric drive system in the related technology is low is solved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and more specifically, to a thermal management method for an electric drive system, a vehicle, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of new energy electric vehicle technology, optimizing the efficiency of electric drive systems has become a key factor in improving vehicle performance and range. Thermal management of electric drive systems, especially how to efficiently utilize the heat generated by the system, is crucial for reducing energy loss and improving overall efficiency.

[0003] Currently, in traditional electric drive systems, the coolant and oil temperatures are low under low load or during the initial startup phase, leading to increased oil viscosity. This, in turn, increases the oil churning losses in the transmission components, affecting the overall efficiency of the electric drive system.

[0004] There is currently no good solution to the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a thermal management method for an electric drive system, a vehicle, and a computer-readable storage medium to at least solve the technical problem of low overall efficiency of electric drive systems in the related art.

[0006] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a thermal management method for an electric drive system is provided, comprising: collecting a first temperature value and a second temperature value, wherein the first temperature value is used to record the temperature of the electric drive system of a vehicle, the second temperature value is used to record the inlet temperature of the thermal management system, and the thermal management system is used to perform temperature control on the electric drive system; determining a thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value; and adjusting the energy consumption of the electric drive system according to the thermal management mode of the electric drive system.

[0007] Further, determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value includes: obtaining a first comparison result between the first temperature value and a first temperature threshold, and a second comparison result between the second temperature value and the second temperature threshold; and determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result.

[0008] Furthermore, based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched includes: in response to the first temperature value being found to be higher than the first temperature threshold based on the first comparison result, and the second temperature value being found to be higher than the second temperature threshold based on the second comparison result, switching the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to the active cooling mode, wherein the active cooling mode is used to form a cooling cycle with a radiator.

[0009] Furthermore, the thermal management system includes a cooling water pump, an air intake grille, and a cooling fan. The thermal management method for the electric drive system also includes, in active cooling mode, adjusting at least one of the following according to preset cooling requirements: adjusting the duty cycle of the cooling water pump; adjusting the opening of the air intake grille; and adjusting the duty cycle of the cooling fan.

[0010] Furthermore, based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched includes: in response to the first temperature value being found to be lower than the first temperature threshold based on the first comparison result, and the second temperature value being found to be lower than the second temperature threshold based on the second comparison result, switching the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to the self-circulation mode, wherein the self-circulation mode is used to form a closed heating cycle.

[0011] Furthermore, the thermal management system includes a cooling water pump, an air intake grille, and a cooling fan. The thermal management method for the electric drive system further includes, in self-circulation mode, adjusting at least one of the following according to a preset temperature rise requirement: reducing the duty cycle of the cooling water pump or turning off the cooling water pump; closing the air intake grille; and turning off the cooling fan.

[0012] Furthermore, the first temperature value is determined based on at least one of the stator temperature, rotor temperature, power module junction temperature, power module sampling temperature, and oil temperature of the electric drive system.

[0013] Furthermore, the thermal management method for the electric drive system also includes: after adjusting the energy consumption of the electric drive system according to the thermal management mode of the electric drive system, cyclically collecting the first temperature value and the second temperature value to re-determine whether to switch the thermal management mode of the electric drive system.

[0014] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a thermal management device for an electric drive system is also provided, comprising: a data acquisition module for acquiring a first temperature value and a second temperature value, wherein the first temperature value is used to record the temperature of the electric drive system of the vehicle, the second temperature value is used to record the inlet temperature of the thermal management system, and the thermal management system is used to perform temperature control on the electric drive system; a determination module for determining a thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value; and an adjustment module for adjusting the energy consumption of the electric drive system according to the thermal management mode of the electric drive system.

[0015] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a vehicle is also provided, including: a memory storing an executable program; and a processor for running the program, wherein the program executes the methods in various embodiments of this application when it runs.

[0016] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a computer-readable storage medium is also provided, the computer-readable storage medium including a stored executable program, wherein, when the executable program is running, it controls the device where the computer-readable storage medium is located to perform the methods of various embodiments of this application.

[0017] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a computer program product is also provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the methods of various embodiments of this application.

[0018] In this embodiment, a first temperature value and a second temperature value are collected. The first temperature value is used to record the temperature of the vehicle's electric drive system, and the second temperature value is used to record the inlet temperature of the thermal management system. The thermal management system is used to control the temperature of the electric drive system. Based on the first and second temperature values, a thermal management mode for the electric drive system to be switched is determined. The energy consumption of the electric drive system is adjusted according to the thermal management mode. This achieves precise control of the electric drive system temperature, thereby improving energy efficiency and extending the electric vehicle's range, and solving the technical problem of low overall efficiency of electric drive systems in related technologies. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an electric-driven thermal management system.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a thermal management method for an electric drive system according to one embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the active heat dissipation mode according to one embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the operation of the self-looping mode according to one embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the controller according to one embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the controller according to one embodiment of the present application;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a structural block diagram of a thermal management device for an electric drive system according to one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0028] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an electric-driven thermal management system. Figure 1 It includes a radiator, condenser, multiple 2 / 3 solenoid valves, multiple cooling water pumps, heat exchanger, battery pack, cooling component 1, cooling component 2, cooling component 3, throttle valve, temperature sensor and electric drive system.

[0030] The radiator is the core component of thermal management. Its function is to absorb heat from the coolant and release it into the air to reduce the temperature of the electric drive system and battery pack and prevent overheating.

[0031] Condensers, like radiators, are heat exchange devices used to cool overheated fluids.

[0032] The 2 / 3 solenoid valve, also known as a solenoid valve, is used to open or close the fluid passage according to system requirements, controlling the flow direction of the coolant, so that the system can switch between different modes according to the temperature requirements of the electric drive system and the battery pack.

[0033] The cooling water pump is responsible for pushing the coolant through the entire system, ensuring that the coolant can circulate effectively and carry heat from high-temperature parts to the radiator or other cooling components.

[0034] Heat exchangers are used to transfer heat between different fluids (such as coolant and air, coolant and battery pack) to help balance the temperature within the system.

[0035] Battery packs are used to store electrical energy to power drive systems. One purpose of thermal management is to control the temperature of the battery pack, ensuring that the batteries operate within their optimal temperature range to improve charging and discharging efficiency and extend their lifespan.

[0036] Cooling component 1, cooling component 2 and cooling component 3 correspond to different heat-generating areas in the electric drive system. They exchange heat with the coolant to maintain the temperature stability of their respective components.

[0037] Throttling valves are used to adjust water resistance (waterway pressure drop), thereby regulating the flow rate of coolant. By controlling the flow rate of coolant, they affect the heat exchange efficiency within the system, helping to maintain the rapid rise of oil temperature without exceeding the limit value.

[0038] Temperature sensors are used to monitor the temperature of the electric drive system and battery pack in real time, ensuring that the controller can obtain accurate temperature information and make appropriate thermal management decisions.

[0039] The electric drive system, comprising a drive motor, power conversion device, and transmission mechanism, is the source of a vehicle's power. Thermal management ensures the efficient and stable operation of the electric drive system by controlling its temperature, reducing performance degradation and potential malfunctions caused by high temperatures.

[0040] According to an embodiment of this application, a method embodiment for thermal management of an electric drive system is provided. It should be noted that the steps shown in the flowchart in the accompanying drawings can be executed in a computer system such as a set of computer-executable instructions. Furthermore, although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be executed in a different order than that shown here.

[0041] This embodiment provides a thermal management method for an electric drive system. Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a thermal management method for an electric drive system according to one embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the process includes the following steps:

[0042] Step S21: Collect a first temperature value and a second temperature value, wherein the first temperature value is used to record the temperature of the vehicle's electric drive system, and the second temperature value is used to record the inlet temperature of the thermal management system. The thermal management system is used to control the temperature of the electric drive system.

[0043] In this embodiment, the first temperature value is a real-time reading of the electric drive system temperature. Exemplarily, the electric drive system temperature includes the stator temperature of the motor, the rotor temperature, the junction temperature and sampling temperature of the power module, and possibly other critical component temperatures. Monitoring the electric drive system temperature is crucial for evaluating system health and preventing overheating, as overheating can damage system components and reduce performance.

[0044] The second temperature value is the coolant inlet temperature of the thermal management system. The inlet temperature serves as the baseline for when the thermal management system begins heat exchange with the electric drive system, and it is a crucial reference for assessing the degree of coolant heating and the efficiency of the thermal management system. If the inlet temperature is close to the electric drive system temperature, the heat exchange efficiency will decrease; conversely, if the inlet temperature is significantly lower than the electric drive system temperature, the cooling effect will be better.

[0045] The thermal management system is used to control the temperature of the electric drive system. Specifically, the thermal management system regulates the temperature of the electric drive system by controlling the circulation of coolant, thereby ensuring the efficient and safe operation of the electric drive system.

[0046] As can be seen, the controller of this application collects temperature data in real time from the electric drive system (first temperature value) and the coolant inlet (second temperature value) of the thermal management system through temperature sensors distributed in the electric drive system and the thermal management system. This process is the basis for the effective execution of the thermal management strategy, ensuring that the system can respond according to real-time temperature conditions.

[0047] Therefore, accurate temperature monitoring enables timely response to temperature changes in the electric drive system, preventing damage caused by excessively high or low temperatures. Simultaneously, the acquisition of temperature data provides a basis for decision-making in subsequent steps, allowing the thermal management system to intelligently adjust according to the actual needs of the electric drive system, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0048] Step S22: Determine the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value.

[0049] In this embodiment, the electric drive system has two main thermal management modes: active cooling mode and self-circulation mode. Active cooling mode allows the coolant to pass through the radiator assembly, which helps to dissipate heat quickly under high-temperature conditions and protect the electric drive system. Self-circulation mode, on the other hand, restricts coolant flow under low-temperature conditions, accelerating the rise in coolant and oil temperature and reducing oil churning losses.

[0050] As can be seen, the controller of this application determines whether the current operating state of the electric drive system requires switching to a thermal management mode based on the aforementioned first and second temperature values. For example, if the temperature is below a threshold, the system will enter a self-circulation mode to raise the oil and coolant temperatures. If the temperature is above the threshold, it will enter an active cooling mode to prevent overheating. The aforementioned threshold is any calibrable value, determined according to the actual situation.

[0051] Therefore, through intelligent judgment, the electric drive system is ensured to operate at the most suitable temperature, avoiding overheating or overcooling, thus enhancing system stability and safety. Furthermore, by switching modes based on real-time temperature, the system can more flexibly respond to different environments and operating conditions, improving the adaptability and intelligence of thermal management.

[0052] Step S23: Adjust the energy consumption of the electric drive system according to the thermal management mode of the electric drive system.

[0053] In this embodiment, energy consumption regulation can be achieved, that is, according to the different thermal management modes of the electric drive system, the operating parameters of related components of the electric drive system and the thermal management system, such as the duty cycle of the water pump, the opening of the air intake grille and the operating status of the cooling fan, can be adjusted to achieve the best energy utilization efficiency and thermal management effect.

[0054] It can be seen that once the mode of thermal management of the electric drive system is determined in this application, the controller will adjust the duty cycle of the water pump, the opening and closing state of the air intake grille and the operating state of the cooling fan according to the specific requirements of the mode.

[0055] This optimizes the overall performance of the electric drive system, ensuring efficient energy utilization under varying temperature conditions through intelligent adjustment, thus extending the driving range of electric vehicles. Simultaneously, it enhances the response speed and accuracy of the thermal management system, enabling it to quickly adapt to temperature changes in the electric drive system and provide drivers with more stable and efficient power output.

[0056] In summary, this application can intelligently switch thermal management strategies based on the real-time temperatures of the electric drive system and coolant, precisely controlling the oil and coolant temperatures within their optimal operating range. For example, under low-temperature conditions, this application controls the system to enter a self-circulation mode. Through this mode, the system can store the heat generated by the electric drive system during low loads or startup, rapidly increasing the temperature of the cooling lubricating oil, reducing its viscosity, and thus minimizing oil churning losses. Furthermore, by optimizing thermal management and energy consumption control, this application improves the driving range of electric vehicles, especially in winter or cold regions, significantly enhancing the vehicle's range and improving the overall efficiency of the electric drive system.

[0057] The above steps of this application involve collecting a first temperature value and a second temperature value. The first temperature value is used to record the temperature of the vehicle's electric drive system, and the second temperature value is used to record the inlet temperature of the thermal management system, which is used to control the temperature of the electric drive system. Based on the first and second temperature values, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched is determined. The energy consumption of the electric drive system is then adjusted according to the thermal management mode. This achieves precise control of the electric drive system temperature, thereby improving energy efficiency and extending the range of electric vehicles, and ultimately solving the technical problem of low overall efficiency of electric drive systems in related technologies.

[0058] Optionally, the first temperature value is determined based on at least one of the stator temperature, rotor temperature, power module junction temperature, power module sampling temperature, and oil temperature of the electric drive system.

[0059] In this embodiment, stator temperature refers to the temperature of the motor stator winding, which is an important indicator of the motor's thermal state.

[0060] Rotor temperature refers to the temperature of the motor rotor, reflecting the thermal load during motor operation.

[0061] The junction temperature of a power module refers to the highest temperature inside a power electronic device, such as an inverter, and is used to monitor and prevent overheating of electronic components.

[0062] The sampling temperature of a power module typically refers to the temperature of a point on the surface or inside a power module such as an inverter, and is a parameter for evaluating the thermal condition of the module.

[0063] Oil temperature refers to the real-time temperature of the lubricating and cooling oil inside the electric drive system, which is also the temperature of the oil used for lubrication and heat dissipation in the electric drive system.

[0064] Therefore, by comprehensively considering the temperatures of multiple key components of the electric drive system, the first temperature value can more comprehensively and accurately reflect the current thermal state of the electric drive system, providing detailed data support for the formulation of thermal management strategies.

[0065] Optionally, in step S22, determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value may include the following execution steps:

[0066] Step S221: Obtain the first comparison result between the first temperature value and the first temperature threshold, and the second comparison result between the second temperature value and the second temperature threshold.

[0067] Step S222: Based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, determine the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched.

[0068] In this embodiment of the application, when determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value, a first comparison result between the first temperature value and the first temperature threshold, and a second comparison result between the second temperature value and the second temperature threshold are obtained. Then, based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched is determined.

[0069] The first temperature threshold is a standard temperature value set by the system to determine whether the electric drive system is overheating or within the appropriate operating temperature range. If the electric drive system temperature is higher than or equal to the first temperature threshold, the system needs to take measures to dissipate heat; conversely, if the electric drive system temperature is lower than the first temperature threshold, the temperature needs to be increased.

[0070] The second temperature threshold is similar to the first temperature threshold, but it applies to the coolant inlet temperature. If the coolant inlet temperature is lower than the second temperature threshold, it indicates that the internal system temperature may be too low, and measures need to be taken to increase the temperature.

[0071] As can be seen, the controller in this application acquires the real-time temperature of the electric drive system (first temperature value) and the real-time temperature of the coolant inlet (second temperature value) through a temperature sensor. Then, the first temperature value is compared with a first temperature threshold to obtain a first comparison result, which determines whether the electric drive system needs cooling or heating. Similarly, the comparison of the second temperature value with the second temperature threshold generates a second comparison result, used to further confirm whether the coolant state needs adjustment.

[0072] Based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, the controller can intelligently determine whether the current system is in a state that requires heating or cooling.

[0073] Therefore, by monitoring and comparing temperature values ​​with thresholds in real time, abnormalities in the electric drive system and coolant status can be detected promptly, allowing for proactive measures to prevent overheating or overcooling and protecting the safety of the electric drive system and battery pack. In other words, this application achieves intelligent management of the electric drive system's thermal state, automatically selecting the most suitable thermal management mode based on real-time temperature conditions, avoiding the uncertainty and delays of manual adjustments.

[0074] Optionally, in step S222, determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result may include the following execution steps:

[0075] Step S2221: In response to the first temperature value being found to be higher than the first temperature threshold based on the first comparison result and the second temperature value being found to be higher than the second temperature threshold based on the second comparison result, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system is switched to the active cooling mode, wherein the active cooling mode is used to form a cooling cycle with a heat sink.

[0076] In this embodiment of the application, when determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, if the first comparison result finds that the first temperature value is higher than the first temperature threshold, and the second comparison result finds that the second temperature value is higher than the second temperature threshold, then the thermal management mode of the electric drive system is switched to the active cooling mode.

[0077] The active cooling mode is used to create a cooling cycle with a radiator. In other words, active cooling mode is an enhanced cooling mode that the system enters when the electric drive system temperature and the thermal management system inlet temperature exceed a set threshold. Its purpose is to rapidly reduce the electric drive system temperature, prevent overheating, extend system life, and improve efficiency. In active cooling mode, the thermal management system forms a cooling cycle including the radiator to accelerate the release of heat from the electric drive system and prevent overheating. The coolant exchanges heat with the external environment through the radiator, lowering its temperature, and then circulates back to the electric drive system for further cooling.

[0078] As can be seen, when the controller detects that the first temperature value is higher than the first temperature threshold, and the second temperature value is also higher than the second temperature threshold, it indicates that both the electric drive system and the coolant are overheated and cooling measures need to be taken immediately. At this time, the controller switches the thermal management mode of the electric drive system from the current state to the active cooling mode, that is, it turns on the radiator to form an external heat dissipation circulation for the coolant, accelerates the cooling of the coolant, and thus reduces the temperature of the electric drive system.

[0079] Therefore, active cooling mode can rapidly reduce the temperature of the electric drive system and coolant, preventing system performance degradation, component damage, or safety hazards caused by overheating, and ensuring system stability and reliability. Through heat exchange via the radiator, active cooling mode can effectively improve the cooling efficiency of the coolant, ensuring rapid heat dissipation, reducing energy loss, and improving energy utilization efficiency. In addition, timely thermal management can effectively reduce thermal stress on the electric drive system, avoid long-term damage to components from high temperatures, and extend the lifespan of the system and battery.

[0080] Optionally, the thermal management system includes a cooling water pump, an air intake grille, and a cooling fan. The thermal management method for the electric drive system may also include the following steps:

[0081] Step S2222: In active cooling mode, adjust at least one of the following according to preset cooling requirements:

[0082] Adjust the duty cycle of the cooling water pump;

[0083] Adjust the opening of the air intake grille;

[0084] Adjust the duty cycle of the cooling fan.

[0085] In this embodiment, the thermal management system includes a cooling water pump, an air intake grille, and a cooling fan. The cooling water pump is responsible for driving the coolant to circulate within the system piping, carrying away the heat generated by the electric drive system or battery pack and preventing the system from overheating. The cooling water pump is typically driven by an electric motor, using the rotation of an impeller to draw coolant from one area to another, forming a cooling cycle. The efficiency and operating status of the cooling water pump directly affect the cooling effect of the entire thermal management system.

[0086] In this application, the operating intensity of the cooling water pump can be controlled by adjusting its duty cycle, thereby affecting the flow rate and cooling efficiency of the coolant. The duty cycle is the ratio of pump running time to total time; by changing the duty cycle, the circulation volume of the coolant can be increased or decreased as needed. Specifically, by controlling the duty cycle of the cooling water pump, the speed of the cooling water pump motor is controlled, which in turn controls the flow rate of the coolant (unit: L / min), thus achieving the purpose of controlling the coolant flow rate and realizing fine adjustment of the cooling intensity.

[0087] The air intake grille, located at the front of the vehicle, primarily functions to guide outside air into the vehicle, providing cool air to the radiator and aiding in cooling system heat dissipation. The grille's opening adjusts to control the airflow entering the vehicle. When enhanced heat exchange is needed, the grille opens wider, introducing more cool air. When temperature control requirements are lower, the grille may close to reduce airflow and maintain system temperature.

[0088] In this application, the opening of the air intake grille can be intelligently controlled by the vehicle's thermal management system. By closing or opening the air intake grille, the system can intelligently adjust the cooling efficiency of the radiator to meet the temperature requirements of the electric drive system or battery pack.

[0089] Cooling fans force airflow, accelerating the heat exchange process of the radiator and improving the cooling efficiency of the thermal management system. By rotating, the cooling fan generates airflow, expelling hot air from the radiator while simultaneously drawing in cool air to help dissipate heat from the coolant. The fan's operating status directly affects the cooling speed and effectiveness of the coolant. Specifically, by controlling the duty cycle of the cooling fan, the speed of the cooling fan motor is controlled, which in turn controls the fan speed, thereby controlling the airflow and achieving effective control over the cooling speed and efficiency.

[0090] In this application, the operating status of the cooling fan (i.e., the duty cycle of the cooling fan) can also be intelligently controlled by the thermal management system. Adjusting the duty cycle means the ratio of the fan's running time to its stopping time. By changing this parameter, the cooling effect of the fan can be optimized under different temperature conditions, ensuring both the thermal management requirements of the system and avoiding energy waste.

[0091] Preset cooling requirements are cooling specifications set in advance based on the operating status and environmental conditions of the electric drive system. Preset cooling requirements may include target temperature range, cooling rate, etc., and are used to guide the adjustment of specific parameters in thermal management mode to ensure that the electric drive system is within the ideal operating temperature range.

[0092] In active cooling mode, this application will adjust at least one of the following according to preset cooling requirements: the duty cycle of the cooling water pump, the opening of the air intake grille, and the duty cycle of the cooling fan.

[0093] The duty cycle of the cooling water pump refers to the ratio of the pump's operating time to the total operating time. By adjusting this ratio, the pump's workload can be changed, thereby affecting the coolant's circulation speed and cooling effect.

[0094] The opening of the air intake grille refers to the size or extent of the grille opening, which directly affects the amount of outside air flowing into the vehicle's cooling system.

[0095] The duty cycle of a cooling fan refers to the ratio of the fan's running time to the total running time. By adjusting the fan's duty cycle, the cooling effect can be optimized and the forced air cooling capability can be enhanced.

[0096] As can be seen, when the system determines that the electric drive system temperature is too high and needs to enter active cooling mode, this application will adjust the relevant components of the cooling system according to the current preset cooling requirements in order to effectively reduce the temperature. Specifically, the controller can:

[0097] Adjust the duty cycle of the cooling water pump to increase the circulation speed of the coolant and enhance the cooling effect.

[0098] Adjusting the opening of the air intake grille allows more outside air to be drawn in, enhancing natural cooling.

[0099] Adjust the duty cycle of the cooling fan to enhance heat exchange between the coolant and the air.

[0100] Therefore, by precisely adjusting the component parameters of the cooling system, cooling efficiency can be significantly improved, and the electric drive system can be brought down to a safe operating temperature range more quickly. Even with enhanced cooling, unnecessary energy waste can be avoided through refined control, maintaining overall energy efficiency. Furthermore, effective temperature control can prevent overheating of the electric drive system, protecting critical components from damage and thus extending the system's lifespan.

[0101] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the active heat dissipation mode according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 3 For details on the components, please refer to the documentation. Figure 1 The description will not be elaborated upon here. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the controller first collects the stator temperature, rotor temperature, power module junction temperature, and power module sampling temperature of the electric drive system in real time (collectively referred to as the electric drive system temperature, i.e., the first temperature value), as well as the coolant inlet temperature (i.e., the second temperature value). Then, the controller compares the real-time collected electric drive system temperature and coolant inlet temperature with the preset first and second temperature thresholds to determine if the current thermal management state needs adjustment. When the electric drive system temperature and coolant inlet temperature are higher than the set thresholds, the system enters active cooling mode. The coolant flows through the radiator to enhance heat exchange and cooling effect, protecting the electric drive system from overheating damage. That is, the coolant flow path and direction are: coolant pump – cooling component 3 (optional) – electric drive system – 2 / 3 solenoid valve – radiator – coolant pump (forming a loop). At this time, the coolant in the electric drive system has been cooled by the radiator assembly.

[0102] Furthermore, in active cooling mode, the controller will intelligently adjust relevant parameters of the cooling system according to preset cooling requirements, including at least one of the following:

[0103] Adjust the duty cycle of the cooling water pump to increase the coolant circulation speed and improve cooling efficiency.

[0104] Adjust the opening of the air intake grille to introduce more cool air and enhance natural cooling.

[0105] Adjusting the duty cycle of the cooling fan promotes airflow and optimizes forced air cooling capacity.

[0106] The subsequent controller continuously monitors the electric drive system and coolant temperature, adjusting the cooling strategy according to temperature changes until the system temperature stabilizes within the optimal operating range. When both the electric drive system and coolant temperatures reach or remain within preset temperature thresholds, the thermal management system enters a steady state, continuously monitoring and adjusting as needed to maintain this state. This closed-loop control ensures continuous optimization and adjustment of the thermal management system to adapt to constantly changing operating conditions and environmental factors.

[0107] Optionally, in step S222, determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result may include the following execution steps:

[0108] Step S2223: In response to the first temperature value being found to be lower than the first temperature threshold based on the first comparison result, and the second temperature value being found to be lower than the second temperature threshold based on the second comparison result, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system is switched to the self-circulation mode, wherein the self-circulation mode is used to form a closed heating cycle.

[0109] In this embodiment of the application, when determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, if the first temperature value is found to be lower than the first temperature threshold based on the first comparison result, and the second temperature value is found to be lower than the second temperature threshold based on the second comparison result, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system is switched to the self-circulation mode.

[0110] The self-circulation mode is used to create a closed heating cycle. In this mode, the coolant circulates only within the electric drive system and does not exchange heat with the external environment through the radiator. The purpose of the self-circulation mode is to increase the temperature of the coolant and oil by generating heat internally, reducing oil churning losses at low temperatures and improving the efficiency of the electric drive system.

[0111] It can be seen that when the controller obtains data from the temperature sensor showing that the first temperature value of the electric drive system is lower than the first temperature threshold, and the second temperature value of the coolant is also lower than the second temperature threshold, it indicates that both the electric drive system and the coolant are in a state below the ideal operating temperature. Under this condition, the thermal management system enters the self-circulation mode.

[0112] Therefore, at low temperatures, oil viscosity increases, leading to increased churning losses and impacting the efficiency and energy consumption of the electric drive system. The self-circulation mode can rapidly raise the oil temperature, reduce viscosity, and minimize churning losses. Furthermore, by accumulating the heat generated by the electric drive system, the temperature of the coolant and oil can be quickly raised to their optimal operating temperature, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the electric drive system and increasing the driving range of the electric vehicle.

[0113] Optionally, the thermal management system includes a cooling water pump, an air intake grille, and a cooling fan. The thermal management method for the electric drive system may also include the following steps:

[0114] Step S2224, in self-circulation mode, adjust at least one of the following according to the preset temperature rise requirement:

[0115] Reduce the duty cycle of the cooling water pump, or turn off the cooling water pump;

[0116] Close the air intake grille;

[0117] Turn off the cooling fan.

[0118] In this embodiment of the application, by reducing the running time of the cooling water pump or reducing its working intensity, or by completely shutting down the cooling water pump, the circulation speed of the coolant in the system can be slowed down, and the heat exchange efficiency can be reduced. As a result, the heat generated when the electric drive system is working will have more time to be absorbed by the coolant. At the same time, the heat exchange between the coolant and other parts of the system is reduced, which helps to accumulate and increase the internal temperature of the system.

[0119] Preventing outside cold air from entering the vehicle reduces the natural cooling effect and prevents excessive heat loss from the system in self-circulation mode, thus helping the system temperature rise.

[0120] Stop the cooling fan from running to avoid forced air cooling and reduce heat exchange between the coolant and the outside air. Turning off the cooling fan helps retain heat inside the system and prevents it from rising in temperature.

[0121] In self-circulation mode, this application will also perform at least one of the following actions according to preset heating requirements: reducing the duty cycle of the cooling water pump, closing the air intake grille, and turning off the cooling fan.

[0122] Therefore, by reducing or stopping external heat exchange with the coolant, the system can more effectively utilize the heat generated by the electric drive system, accelerating the rise in coolant and oil temperatures and allowing them to reach their optimal operating temperature more quickly. In self-circulation mode, reducing the coolant pump duty cycle or shutting off the air intake grille and radiator fan can reduce the energy consumption of these components, contributing to improved overall energy efficiency and increased driving range for the electric vehicle. Furthermore, at low temperatures, oil viscosity is higher, resulting in greater churning losses and reduced efficiency. Through the aforementioned adjustments in self-circulation mode, the system can quickly raise the oil temperature, reduce oil viscosity, minimize churning losses, and improve the operating efficiency of the electric drive system.

[0123] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the operation of the self-looping mode according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 4 For details on the components, please refer to the documentation. Figure 1 The description will not be elaborated upon here. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the controller first collects the stator temperature, rotor temperature, power module junction temperature, and power module sampling temperature of the electric drive system in real time (collectively referred to as the electric drive system temperature, i.e., the first temperature value), as well as the coolant inlet temperature (i.e., the second temperature value). Then, the controller compares the real-time collected electric drive system temperature and coolant inlet temperature with the preset first and second temperature thresholds to determine if the current thermal management status needs adjustment. When the electric drive system temperature and coolant inlet temperature are higher than the set thresholds, the system enters a self-circulation mode. The coolant flows through and in the following direction: cooling component 3 (optional) – electric drive system – 2 / 3 solenoid valve – heat exchanger – 2 / 3 solenoid valve – cooling water pump (forming a loop). At this time, the air intake grille is closed, the cooling fan is stopped, and the coolant valves are controlled to prevent the electric drive system coolant from passing through the radiator assembly. The duty cycle of the cooling water pump is also reduced. The heat generated by the electric drive system is accumulated in the water channels of the electric drive system and battery system, and through self-circulation, the oil temperature in the reducer cavity accumulates and rises, also heating the battery cells and improving discharge efficiency.

[0124] Optionally, the thermal management method of the electric drive system may further include the following steps:

[0125] Step S24: After adjusting the energy consumption of the electric drive system according to the thermal management mode of the electric drive system, the first temperature value and the second temperature value are collected cyclically to re-determine whether to switch the thermal management mode of the electric drive system.

[0126] In this embodiment, after adjusting the energy consumption of the electric drive system according to the electric drive system thermal management mode, the first temperature value and the second temperature value are collected cyclically to re-determine whether to switch the electric drive system thermal management mode.

[0127] The cyclic data acquisition means that the thermal management controller of this application will continuously and periodically monitor and acquire system temperature data to achieve real-time monitoring of the operating status of the electric drive system and ensure that the system operates within the optimal temperature range.

[0128] As can be seen, after adjusting the energy consumption of the electric drive system, the thermal management controller continuously collects the first and second temperature values ​​to evaluate the effectiveness of the current thermal management measures and makes an intelligent decision-making process based on the latest temperature information to determine whether it is necessary to switch the thermal management mode of the electric drive system. Specifically, the controller will periodically or continuously read the comprehensive temperature index (first temperature value) of the electric drive system and the inlet temperature of the coolant (second temperature value) to ensure real-time monitoring of system temperature changes. Then, based on the latest first and second temperature values, the controller will compare them again with the preset temperature threshold and determine whether the current thermal management mode (self-circulation mode or active cooling mode) is still applicable, or whether it is necessary to switch to another mode to cope with changes in system temperature.

[0129] Therefore, cyclically collecting temperature values ​​ensures that the thermal management controller can monitor the operating status of the electric drive system in real time, promptly detect temperature changes, and provide a basis for dynamically adjusting the thermal management strategy. Based on the analysis of real-time temperature data, the controller can intelligently determine whether to switch the thermal management mode, avoiding unnecessary energy waste, while ensuring that the electric drive system operates within a safe and efficient operating temperature range.

[0130] In summary, this application enables the cooling lubricating oil temperature to rise to its optimal operating temperature as quickly as possible (set to a standard quantity based on the oil's grade characteristics), reducing oil churning losses and improving work efficiency. Specifically, by accumulating all the heat from the electric drive operation, controlling the valves to prevent the electric drive system coolant from passing through the radiator assembly, and reducing the water pump duty cycle (reducing output power), the oil temperature rises rapidly to its optimal operating temperature. Furthermore, at this time, the air intake grille is closed and the radiator fan is turned off, further saving energy.

[0131] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the controller according to one embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the controller includes an acquisition module, a calculation module, and a processing module. The controller is used to execute the thermal management method of the electric drive system described above. For details, please refer to the description of the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0132] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the controller according to one embodiment of this application, as follows: Figure 6As shown, firstly, the controller collects various internal temperature indicators (first temperature value) of the electric drive system and the inlet temperature of the coolant (second temperature value) in real time. Then, the collected first temperature value is compared with a preset first temperature threshold, and the second temperature value is compared with a preset second temperature threshold.

[0133] When the first temperature value is lower than the first temperature threshold and the second temperature value is lower than the second temperature threshold, it indicates that both the electric drive system and the coolant are at a low temperature and require accelerated warm-up. At this time, the controller switches the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to self-circulation mode. In self-circulation mode, the coolant circulates within the electric drive system without exchanging heat with the external environment. Simultaneously, the duty cycle of the cooling water pump is reduced, and the intake grille and radiator fan are shut off to reduce coolant heat loss and accelerate the rise in system internal temperature.

[0134] If the first and second temperature values ​​are higher than or equal to the corresponding temperature thresholds, it indicates that the electric drive system or coolant has reached or is close to its optimal operating temperature, or there is a risk of overheating. In this case, the controller switches the thermal management mode to active cooling mode. In active cooling mode, the coolant circulation path will exchange heat with the external radiator, enhancing the cooling effect. Furthermore, the controller will adjust the coolant pump duty cycle (or even shut down the coolant pump), control the intake grille opening, and the cooling fan operation status as needed to ensure the electric drive system operates within a safe temperature range and avoid potential damage from overheating.

[0135] After the thermal management mode adjustment is completed, the controller will enter a cyclic monitoring state. This means the controller will continue to collect the first and second temperature values, evaluate the effectiveness of the current thermal management measures, and re-determine whether a mode switch is necessary based on the latest temperature information. This cyclic monitoring mechanism ensures the dynamic adjustment capability of the electric drive system's thermal management strategy, enabling timely responses to temperature changes and optimizing system efficiency and operational safety.

[0136] It should be noted that the user information (including but not limited to user device information, user personal information, etc.) and data (including but not limited to data used for analysis, data stored, data displayed, etc.) involved in this application are all information and data authorized by the user or fully authorized by all parties. Furthermore, the collection, use and processing of the relevant data must comply with the relevant laws, regulations and standards of the relevant countries and regions, and corresponding operation entry points are provided for users to choose to authorize or refuse.

[0137] According to an embodiment of this application, a thermal management device for an electric drive system is provided. It should be noted that the device can be used to perform the thermal management method for the electric drive system described above.

[0138] Figure 7This is a structural block diagram of a thermal management device for an electric drive system according to one embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 7 As shown, taking the thermal management device 700 of the electric drive system as an example, the device includes: a data acquisition module 701, used to acquire a first temperature value and a second temperature value, wherein the first temperature value is used to record the temperature of the vehicle's electric drive system, and the second temperature value is used to record the inlet temperature of the thermal management system, the thermal management system being used to control the temperature of the electric drive system; a determination module 702, used to determine the electric drive system thermal management mode to be switched based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value; and an adjustment module 703, used to adjust the energy consumption of the electric drive system according to the electric drive system thermal management mode.

[0139] Embodiments of this application also provide a vehicle, including: a memory storing an executable program; and a processor for running the program, wherein the program executes the methods described in various embodiments of this application when it runs.

[0140] Embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium including a stored executable program, wherein, when the executable program is running, it controls the device where the computer-readable storage medium is located to perform the methods of various embodiments of this application.

[0141] Embodiments of this application also provide a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the methods of various embodiments of this application.

[0142] In the above embodiments of this application, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions of other embodiments.

[0143] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed technical content can be implemented in other ways. The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for example, the division of units can be a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For instance, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the displayed or discussed mutual coupling, direct coupling, or communication connection may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between units or modules may be electrical or other forms.

[0144] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0145] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0146] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), portable hard drive, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0147] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this application. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principle of this application, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A thermal management method for an electric drive system, characterized in that, include: A first temperature value and a second temperature value are collected, wherein the first temperature value is used to record the temperature of the vehicle's electric drive system, and the second temperature value is used to record the inlet temperature of the thermal management system, wherein the thermal management system is used to control the temperature of the electric drive system. The thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched is determined based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value; The energy consumption of the electric drive system is adjusted according to the thermal management mode of the electric drive system.

2. The thermal management method for an electric drive system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched based on the first temperature value and the second temperature value includes: Obtain a first comparison result between the first temperature value and a first temperature threshold, and a second comparison result between the second temperature value and a second temperature threshold; Based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched is determined.

3. The thermal management method for an electric drive system according to claim 2, characterized in that, Based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched is determined to include: If, based on the first comparison result, the first temperature value is found to be higher than the first temperature threshold, and based on the second comparison result, the second temperature value is found to be higher than the second temperature threshold, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system is switched to an active cooling mode, wherein the active cooling mode is used to form a cooling cycle with a radiator.

4. The thermal management method for an electric drive system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The thermal management system includes: a cooling water pump, an air intake grille, and a cooling fan; the thermal management method for the electric drive system further includes: In the active cooling mode, at least one of the following is adjusted according to preset cooling requirements: Adjust the duty cycle of the cooling water pump; Adjust the opening of the air intake grille; Adjust the duty cycle of the cooling fan.

5. The thermal management method for an electric drive system according to claim 2, characterized in that, Based on the first comparison result and the second comparison result, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system to be switched is determined to include: If, based on the first comparison result, the first temperature value is found to be lower than the first temperature threshold, and based on the second comparison result, the second temperature value is found to be lower than the second temperature threshold, the thermal management mode of the electric drive system is switched to a self-circulation mode, wherein the self-circulation mode is used to form a closed heating cycle.

6. The thermal management method for an electric drive system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The thermal management system includes: a cooling water pump, an air intake grille, and a cooling fan; the thermal management method for the electric drive system further includes: In the self-circulation mode, at least one of the following is adjusted according to the preset temperature rise requirement: Reduce the duty cycle of the cooling water pump, or turn off the cooling water pump; Close the air intake grille; Turn off the cooling fan.

7. The thermal management method for an electric drive system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first temperature value is determined based on at least one of the stator temperature, rotor temperature, power module junction temperature, power module sampling temperature, and oil temperature of the electric drive system.

8. The thermal management method for an electric drive system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal management method for the electric drive system further includes: After adjusting the energy consumption of the electric drive system according to the electric drive system thermal management mode, the first temperature value and the second temperature value are collected cyclically to re-determine whether to switch the electric drive system thermal management mode.

9. A vehicle, characterized in that, include: Memory, which stores executable programs; A processor for running the program, wherein the program, when running, executes the thermal management method of the electric drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium includes a stored executable program, wherein, when the executable program is executed, it controls the device on which the storage medium is located to perform the thermal management method of the electric drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.