An energy storage system and its control method

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of battery energy storage technology, and discloses an energy storage system and control method. The energy storage system includes: an energy storage device having a liquid cooling mechanism and an energy storage monitoring unit, wherein the liquid cooling mechanism is connected to a first quick-connect connector; at least one thermal management device having a drive mechanism and a thermal management monitoring unit, wherein the drive mechanism is connected to a second quick-connect connector; the first quick-connect connector and the second quick-connect connector are interlocked to form a loop between the liquid cooling mechanism and the drive mechanism; the energy storage monitoring unit is communicatively connected to the thermal management monitoring unit and is used to control the number of thermal management devices activated based on the temperature information and temperature change information of the energy storage device. This invention solves the problem that integrating the thermal management system into the structure of the energy storage system, such as a container or outdoor cabinet, occupies space and weight, reducing the energy density of the energy storage system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery energy storage technology, specifically to an energy storage system and control method. Background Technology

[0002] As an auxiliary temperature control device for energy storage systems, thermal management systems can manage the temperature of the battery cells in energy storage systems, thereby improving the energy conversion efficiency and thermal stability of the energy storage system. With the continuous increase in the number of battery cells and the amount of heat generated in energy storage systems, the structure of current thermal management systems is becoming increasingly complex, requiring more space to provide greater cooling capacity.

[0003] In related technologies, thermal management systems typically employ liquid-cooled thermal management, integrating the thermal management system into the structure of the energy storage system, such as a container or outdoor cabinet. This method occupies space and weight in the energy storage system, reducing its energy density. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides an energy storage system and control method to solve the problem that integrating a thermal management system into the structure of the energy storage system, such as a container or outdoor cabinet, occupies space and weight, thus reducing the energy density of the energy storage system.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an energy storage system, comprising: An energy storage device has a liquid cooling mechanism and an energy storage monitoring unit, and the liquid cooling mechanism is connected to a first quick-connect connector; At least one thermal management device having a drive mechanism and a thermal management monitoring unit, wherein the drive mechanism is connected to a second quick-connect connector; The first quick-connect connector and the second quick-connect connector are plugged into each other to enable the liquid cooling mechanism and the drive mechanism to form a circulation loop. The energy storage monitoring unit is communicatively connected to the thermal management monitoring unit and is used to control the number of thermal management devices to be activated based on the temperature information and temperature change information of the energy storage device.

[0006] Beneficial effects: The energy storage device and the thermal management device are set separately, and the liquid cooling mechanism in the energy storage device is connected through the first quick plug connector. During installation, only the second quick plug connector needs to be inserted into the first quick plug connector to achieve quick connection, connecting the liquid cooling mechanism and the driving mechanism to form a circulation loop of the cooling medium. At the same time, the energy storage monitoring unit is communicatively connected to the thermal management monitoring unit to achieve linkage. During operation, the energy storage monitoring unit collects the temperature and temperature change information of the energy storage device to calculate the required target cooling capacity. At the same time, according to the preset cooling capacity of each thermal management device fed back by the thermal management monitoring unit, it calculates the number of thermal management devices that need to operate and controls the corresponding thermal management devices to operate, so that the driving mechanism drives the cooling medium in the liquid cooling mechanism to circulate between the liquid cooling mechanism and the driving mechanism. The cooling medium that is heated up in the energy storage device flows out to the driving mechanism after passing through the first quick plug connector and the second quick plug connector, and after being cooled to form a low-temperature cooling medium in the thermal management device, it flows back to the liquid cooling mechanism through the second quick plug connector and the first quick plug connector again to cool down the energy storage device, realizing the cooling and temperature reduction by the circulation of the cooling medium. For the energy storage system provided in this embodiment, the energy storage device and the thermal management device are decoupled in structure. Only by inserting the first quick plug connector and the second quick plug connector can the circulation of the cooling medium be realized, and the communication connection is achieved through the energy storage monitoring unit and the thermal management monitoring unit. The separate setting method avoids the thermal management device occupying the internal space of the energy storage device, saves the internal space of the energy storage device, can arrange multiple energy storage battery packs to improve the energy density, and can select different types of liquid cooling mechanisms according to the type of the energy storage device, avoiding the influence of the limited space size caused by the different sizes of different types of liquid cooling mechanisms on their heat dissipation efficiency and improving the compatibility with different types of liquid cooling mechanisms. The independent setting of the energy storage device and the thermal management device reduces their overall sizes, facilitating independent transportation, reducing the risk of being unable to transport due to being too high or too heavy, being convenient for transportation, and reducing the transportation cost. The thermal management device can be modularly set, can select the installation quantity of the thermal management device according to the cooling requirements of the energy storage device, and can select the number of thermal management devices put into operation according to the actual heat dissipation, improving the degree of intelligence, reducing energy consumption and costs. The thermal management device can be flexibly arranged on the top, bottom and side of the energy storage device according to the on-site installation environment and space conditions, with a large heat exchange area, low fan resistance, high heat exchange efficiency and high space utilization rate. In addition, the quick connection and disassembly are achieved by inserting the first quick plug connector and the second quick plug connector, which is convenient and fast, and improves the assembly and disassembly efficiency.

[0007] In an optional implementation manner, the thermal management device further has a refrigerant mechanism; the refrigerant mechanism is connected to the driving mechanism and is used for cooling the cooling medium passing through the driving mechanism.

[0008] Beneficial effects: By setting up a refrigerant mechanism, when the high-temperature cooling medium passes through the drive mechanism, the refrigerant mechanism cools the cooling medium passing through the drive mechanism to form a low-temperature cooling medium, thereby improving the heat dissipation effect.

[0009] In one optional embodiment, the refrigerant mechanism includes a compressor, a condenser, a fan, an evaporator, and an electronic expansion valve; the compressor, the condenser, the evaporator, and the electronic expansion valve are sequentially connected in a refrigerant pipeline; the fan is mounted on the condenser for heat dissipation; and the evaporator is connected to the drive mechanism.

[0010] Beneficial effects: The refrigerant system consists of a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and electronic expansion valve connected by refrigerant piping to form a circulation loop. Refrigerant is placed within the circulation loop. During operation, the compressor drives the refrigerant to the condenser, where a fan dissipates heat, causing the refrigerant to change from a gaseous state to a liquid state for condensation and heat dissipation. Then, the refrigerant passes through the electronic expansion valve and enters the evaporator. The electronic expansion valve can precisely control the refrigerant flow rate, achieving throttling and pressure reduction, and stabilizing the evaporator temperature and superheat. In the evaporator, the refrigerant changes from a liquid state to a gaseous state, absorbing heat through evaporation. This heat is then absorbed and cooled by the cooling medium passing through the drive mechanism, thus achieving heat transfer. The gaseous refrigerant then returns to the compressor for recirculation, continuously circulating to cool the cooling medium in the drive mechanism before being transported back to the liquid cooling mechanism in the energy storage device.

[0011] In one optional embodiment, the drive mechanism includes a first pipe, a second pipe, and a water pump; one end of the first pipe is connected to the outlet of the second quick-connect fitting, and the other end is connected to the input of the water pump; the first pipe is connected to the refrigerant mechanism; one end of the second pipe is connected to the inlet of the second quick-connect fitting, and the other end is connected to the output of the water pump.

[0012] Beneficial effects: The cooling medium is driven by a water pump to circulate in a loop formed by the drive mechanism and the liquid cooling mechanism. After being cooled and heated in the energy storage device, the cooling medium in the liquid cooling mechanism enters the water pump through the inlet of the second quick connector, passes through the first pipeline, and then is output from the output end of the water pump to the second pipeline. It then flows back to the liquid cooling mechanism through the outlet of the second quick connector for further cooling. Since the first pipeline, the second pipeline, or both pass through the refrigerant mechanism, the cooling medium is cooled to a low temperature by the action of the refrigerant mechanism, which facilitates the cooling of the energy storage device.

[0013] In one alternative embodiment, the thermal management device further includes a housing, within which the refrigerant mechanism, the drive mechanism, and the thermal management monitoring unit are all disposed.

[0014] Beneficial effects: The housing provides protection for the refrigerant system, drive mechanism, and thermal management monitoring unit, and the modular design facilitates assembly.

[0015] In one optional embodiment, the energy storage device includes: a cabinet; at least one set of energy storage components disposed within the cabinet; each set of energy storage components is provided with a corresponding set of liquid cooling mechanisms; each set of energy storage components is provided with a corresponding thermal management device; a circulation pipeline, wherein the liquid cooling mechanisms are connected in parallel to the circulation pipeline; and the circulation pipeline is connected to a first quick-connect connector for each set of energy storage components.

[0016] Beneficial effects: Energy storage components are installed inside the cabinet to store and generate electricity. Each energy storage component is equipped with a liquid cooling mechanism to improve heat dissipation efficiency. All liquid cooling mechanisms are connected in parallel to the circulation pipeline. The cooling medium, after being cooled and heated, flows into the circulation pipeline, passes through the first and second quick-connect connectors, and flows out to the drive mechanism. After being cooled by the refrigerant mechanism, it passes through the second quick-connect connector, the first quick-connect connector, and the circulation pipeline, and is then distributed to each group of liquid cooling mechanisms for cooling, thus repeating the cooling cycle. The circulation pipeline acts as a main pipe to connect multiple groups of liquid cooling mechanisms in parallel to the drive mechanism, reducing the space occupied by internal piping and further improving space utilization.

[0017] In one optional embodiment, each group of energy storage components includes multiple energy storage battery packs; the liquid cooling mechanism includes multiple groups of liquid cooling components, each group of liquid cooling components being disposed one-to-one with each energy storage battery pack; the multiple groups of liquid cooling components are all connected in parallel to the circulation pipeline.

[0018] Beneficial effects: Each energy storage component consists of multiple energy storage battery packs, which increases energy density. Each energy storage battery pack is equipped with a set of liquid cooling components, which improves heat dissipation efficiency. The multiple sets of liquid cooling components are also connected to the circulation pipeline in parallel, which improves space utilization and heat dissipation effect.

[0019] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides a control method for operating an energy storage system as described in any of the first aspects, comprising the following steps: The energy storage monitoring unit collects temperature information and temperature change information of the energy storage device, and calculates the required target cooling capacity. The preset cooling capacity information of each thermal management device is obtained through the thermal management monitoring unit and fed back to the energy storage monitoring unit; The required number of thermal management devices is calculated based on the target cooling capacity information and the preset cooling capacity information, and the corresponding thermal management devices are controlled to operate.

[0020] Beneficial effects: By collecting the temperature and temperature change rate of the energy storage device through the energy storage monitoring unit, the target cooling capacity required for cooling is calculated. Based on the target cooling capacity and the maximum cooling capacity of each thermal management device fed back by the thermal management monitoring unit, the number of thermal management devices required to meet the target cooling capacity is determined, so that the sum of the maximum cooling capacity of each thermal management device is greater than or equal to the target cooling capacity. The corresponding thermal management devices are controlled to operate and cool to meet the cooling demand. It can flexibly adapt to different cooling capacity requirements according to the control strategy, achieves minimum auxiliary power consumption, reduces operating costs, and has a high degree of intelligence.

[0021] In one optional implementation, the step of collecting temperature information and temperature change information of the energy storage device through the energy storage monitoring unit and calculating the required target cooling capacity information includes: The energy storage monitoring unit collects temperature information and temperature change information of all cells in all energy storage battery packs. Extract the highest temperature and highest heating rate of the cells in the energy storage battery pack; The required target cooling capacity is calculated based on the highest temperature and the highest heating rate.

[0022] Beneficial effects: The energy storage monitoring unit monitors the temperature and temperature change information of all cells in all energy storage battery packs in real time, and extracts the highest temperature and highest heating rate of the cells, so as to calculate the target cooling capacity that can meet the heat dissipation needs of all cells and ensure the heat dissipation effect.

[0023] In one optional implementation, the step of calculating the required number of thermal management devices based on the target cooling capacity information and the preset cooling capacity information, and controlling the operation of the corresponding thermal management devices, includes: Compare the sum of the preset cooling capacities of all the aforementioned thermal management devices with the target cooling capacity; If the sum of the preset cooling capacities is less than or equal to the target cooling capacities, then all the thermal management devices are controlled to operate; If the sum of the preset cooling capacities is greater than the target cooling capacities, the preset cooling capacities of each thermal management device are sorted from largest to smallest, and the preset cooling capacities of each thermal management device are sequentially added according to the sorting until the sum of the added preset cooling capacities is greater than or equal to the target cooling capacities, and the thermal management device with the corresponding serial number is controlled to operate.

[0024] Beneficial effects: The energy storage monitoring unit collects temperature and temperature change information of all cells in the energy storage battery pack, and extracts the highest temperature and highest heating rate of the energy storage battery pack. Based on the highest temperature and highest heating rate, the required target cooling capacity is calculated to meet the overall cooling demand. Then, the thermal management monitoring unit feeds back the preset cooling capacity of each thermal management device and compares it with the target cooling capacity. If the sum of the preset cooling capacities is less than or equal to the target cooling capacity, all thermal management devices are controlled to operate. If the sum of the preset cooling capacities is greater than the target cooling capacity, the preset cooling capacities of each thermal management device are sorted from largest to smallest, and the preset cooling capacities of each thermal management device are added sequentially according to the sorting until the sum of the added preset cooling capacities is greater than or equal to the target cooling capacity. The corresponding thermal management device is then controlled to operate to meet the cooling demand. Different cooling capacity requirements can be flexibly adapted according to the control strategy to minimize auxiliary power consumption and reduce operating costs. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a first structural schematic diagram of the thermal management device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the drive mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a second structural schematic diagram of the thermal management device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first energy storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first energy storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a control method for an energy storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a logic diagram of the control method for the energy storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1. Energy storage device; 101. Cabinet; 102. Energy storage battery pack; 103. Circulation pipeline; 104. Energy storage monitoring unit; 105. First quick-connect connector; 2. Thermal management device; 201. Housing; 202. Drive mechanism; 2021. First pipeline; 2022. Second pipeline; 2023. Water pump; 203. Refrigerant mechanism; 2031. Compressor; 2032. Condenser; 2033. Fan; 2034. Evaporator; 2035. Electronic expansion valve; 2036. Refrigerant pipeline; 204. Second quick-connect connector; 205. Thermal management monitoring unit. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0029] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 8 The following describes embodiments of the present invention.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an energy storage system is provided, comprising: an energy storage device 1 having a liquid cooling mechanism and an energy storage monitoring unit 104, wherein the liquid cooling mechanism is connected to a first quick-connect connector 105; at least one thermal management device 2 having a drive mechanism 202 and a thermal management monitoring unit 205, wherein the drive mechanism 202 is connected to a second quick-connect connector 204; the first quick-connect connector 105 and the second quick-connect connector 204 are plugged into each other to enable the liquid cooling mechanism and the drive mechanism 202 to form a loop; the energy storage monitoring unit 104 is communicatively connected to the thermal management monitoring unit 205 to control the number of thermal management devices 2 to be activated based on the temperature information and temperature change information of the energy storage device 1.

[0031] It should be noted that the cooling medium includes, but is not limited to, a 50% aqueous solution of ethylene glycol.

[0032] In this embodiment, the energy storage device 1 and the thermal management device 2 are separately arranged, and the liquid cooling mechanism in the energy storage device 1 is connected through the first quick plug connector 105. During installation, only the second quick plug connector 204 needs to be inserted into the first quick plug connector 105 to achieve quick connection, connecting the liquid cooling mechanism and the driving mechanism 202 to form a circulating loop of the cooling medium. At the same time, the energy storage monitoring unit 104 is communicatively connected to the thermal management monitoring unit 205 to achieve linkage. During operation, the energy storage monitoring unit 104 collects the temperature and temperature change information of the energy storage device 1 to calculate the required target refrigerating capacity. At the same time, according to the preset refrigerating capacity of each thermal management device 2 fed back by the thermal management monitoring unit 205, the number of thermal management devices 2 to be operated is calculated, and the corresponding thermal management devices 2 are controlled to operate, so that the driving mechanism 202 drives the cooling medium in the liquid cooling mechanism to circulate between the liquid cooling mechanism and the driving mechanism 202. The cooling medium that is heated up in the energy storage device 1 flows out to the driving mechanism 202 after passing through the first quick plug connector 105 and the second quick plug connector 204, and after being cooled to form a low-temperature cooling medium in the thermal management device 2, it flows back to the liquid cooling mechanism through the second quick plug connector 204 and the first quick plug connector 105 again to cool down the energy storage device 1, realizing the cooling of the cooling medium by circulating flow. For the energy storage system provided in this embodiment, the energy storage device 1 and the thermal management device 2 are decoupled in structure. Only by inserting the first quick plug connector 105 and the second quick plug connector 204 can the circulating flow of the cooling medium be achieved, and communication connection is achieved through the energy storage monitoring unit 104 and the thermal management monitoring unit 205. The separate arrangement method avoids the thermal management device 2 occupying the internal space of the energy storage device 1, saves the internal space of the energy storage device 1, can arrange multiple energy storage battery packs 102 to improve the energy density, and can select different types of liquid cooling mechanisms according to the type of the energy storage device 1, avoiding the influence of the space size limitation caused by the different sizes of different types of liquid cooling mechanisms on their heat dissipation efficiency, and improving the compatibility with different types of liquid cooling mechanisms. The independent setting of the energy storage device 1 and the thermal management device 2 reduces their overall sizes, facilitating independent transportation, reducing the risk of being unable to transport due to being too high or too heavy, being convenient for transportation, and reducing the transportation cost. The thermal management device 2 can be modularly arranged, the installation quantity of the thermal management device 2 can be selected according to the cooling requirements of the energy storage device 1, and the quantity of the thermal management device 2 put into operation can be selected according to the actual heat dissipation, improving the degree of intelligence, reducing energy consumption and cost. The thermal management device 2 can be flexibly arranged on the top, bottom and side of the energy storage device 1 according to the on-site installation environment and space conditions, with a large heat exchange area, low fan resistance, high heat exchange efficiency and high space utilization rate. In addition, quick connection and disassembly are achieved by inserting the first quick plug connector 105 and the second quick plug connector 204, which is convenient and fast, and improves the assembly and disassembly efficiency.

[0033] Specifically, both the first quick connector 105 and the second quick connector 204 can be conventional quick connectors. Both the first quick connector 105 and the second quick connector 204 have an outlet and an inlet. The inlet of the first quick connector 105 is connected to the outlet of the second quick connector 204, and the outlet of the first quick connector 105 is connected to the inlet of the second quick connector 204, so as to realize the circulation of the cooling medium.

[0034] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the thermal management device 2 also has a refrigerant mechanism 203; the refrigerant mechanism 203 is connected to the drive mechanism 202 and is used to cool the cooling medium passing through the drive mechanism 202.

[0035] It should be noted that both the drive mechanism 202 and the refrigerant mechanism 203 are communicatively connected to the thermal management monitoring unit 205 to facilitate control.

[0036] In this embodiment, by setting up a refrigerant mechanism 203, when the high-temperature cooling medium passes through the drive mechanism 202, the refrigerant mechanism 203 cools the cooling medium passing through the drive mechanism 202 to form a low-temperature cooling medium, thereby improving the heat dissipation effect.

[0037] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the refrigerant mechanism 203 includes a compressor 2031, a condenser 2032, a fan 2033, an evaporator 2034, and an electronic expansion valve 2035; the compressor 2031, condenser 2032, evaporator 2034, and electronic expansion valve 2035 are sequentially connected in a refrigerant pipeline 2036; the fan 2033 is mounted on the condenser 2032 for heat dissipation of the condenser 2032; the evaporator 2034 is connected to the drive mechanism 202.

[0038] It should be noted that the suction side of the fan 2033 faces the condenser 2032, while its blowing side faces the outside of the housing 201.

[0039] In this embodiment, the refrigerant system 203 consists of a compressor 2031, a condenser 2032, an evaporator 2034, and an electronic expansion valve 2035 connected by a refrigerant pipeline 2036 to form a circulation loop. Refrigerant is provided within this loop. During operation, the compressor 2031 drives the refrigerant to the condenser 2032. The condenser 2032 dissipates heat under the action of the fan 2033, causing the refrigerant to change from a gaseous state to a liquid state for condensation and heat dissipation. Then, the refrigerant passes through the electronic expansion valve 2035... Entering the evaporator 2034, the electronic expansion valve 2035 can precisely control the refrigerant flow, realize throttling and pressure reduction, and stabilize the temperature and superheat of the evaporator 2034. The refrigerant changes from liquid to gas in the evaporator 2034 to evaporate and absorb heat, and then absorbs heat and cools the cooling medium passing through the drive mechanism 202, thereby realizing the transfer of heat. Then the gaseous refrigerant returns to the compressor 2031 for recirculation, and then continuously circulates to cool the cooling medium in the drive mechanism 202 before being sent back to the liquid cooling mechanism in the energy storage device 1.

[0040] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the drive mechanism 202 includes a first pipe 2021, a second pipe 2022, and a water pump 2023; one end of the first pipe 2021 is connected to the outlet of the second quick connector 204, and the other end is connected to the input of the water pump 2023; the first pipe 2021 is connected to the refrigerant mechanism 203; one end of the second pipe 2022 is connected to the inlet of the second quick connector 204, and the other end is connected to the output of the water pump 2023.

[0041] In this embodiment, the cooling medium is driven by the water pump 2023 to circulate in the loop formed by the drive mechanism 202 and the liquid cooling mechanism. After being cooled and heated in the energy storage device 1, the cooling medium in the liquid cooling mechanism enters the water pump 2023 through the inlet of the second quick connector 204 and the first pipeline 2021. Then, it is output from the output end of the water pump 2023 to the second pipeline 2022, and flows back to the liquid cooling mechanism through the outlet of the second quick connector 204 for cooling. Since the first pipeline 2021, the second pipeline 2022, or both pass through the refrigerant mechanism 203, the cooling medium is cooled to a low temperature by the action of the refrigerant mechanism 203, which facilitates the cooling of the energy storage device 1.

[0042] Specifically, the first pipe 2021 or the second pipe 2022 is connected to the evaporator 2034, or both are connected to the evaporator 2034, so that the cooling medium in the first pipe 2021 and the second pipe 2022 can be cooled by absorbing heat through the evaporator 2034.

[0043] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1As shown, the thermal management device 2 also has a housing 201, and the refrigerant mechanism 203, the drive mechanism 202 and the thermal management monitoring unit 205 are all disposed inside the housing 201.

[0044] In this embodiment, the housing 201 is provided to protect the refrigerant mechanism 203, the drive mechanism 202 and the thermal management monitoring unit 205, and the overall modular design facilitates assembly.

[0045] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the energy storage device 1 includes: a cabinet 101; at least one set of energy storage components, which are installed inside the cabinet 101; each set of energy storage components is provided with a corresponding liquid cooling mechanism; a circulation pipeline 103, the liquid cooling mechanism being connected in parallel to the circulation pipeline 103; and the circulation pipeline 103 being connected to a first quick-connect connector 105.

[0046] In this embodiment, an energy storage component is installed inside the cabinet 101 to store and generate electricity. At the same time, a liquid cooling mechanism is provided for each group of energy storage components to improve heat dissipation efficiency. All liquid cooling mechanisms are connected in parallel to the circulation pipeline 103. The cooling medium after cooling and heating flows into the circulation pipeline 103, flows out through the first quick connector 105 and the second quick connector 204 to the drive mechanism 202. After being cooled by the refrigerant mechanism 203, it flows through the second quick connector 204, the first quick connector 105 and the circulation pipeline 103, and is then distributed to each group of liquid cooling mechanisms for cooling, thus repeating the cooling cycle. The circulation pipeline 103 serves as the main pipe to connect multiple groups of liquid cooling mechanisms in parallel to the drive mechanism 202, reducing the space occupied by internal pipelines and further improving space utilization.

[0047] Specifically, the number of thermal management devices 2 can be set according to the cooling demand of energy storage device 1, so that the total cooling capacity of all thermal management devices 2 is greater than or equal to the maximum cooling capacity required by energy storage device 1, so as to meet the cooling demand. The number of thermal management devices 2 can correspond one-to-one with the number of energy storage components, or they can be different, depending on the actual needs.

[0048] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, each energy storage component includes multiple energy storage battery packs 102; the liquid cooling mechanism includes multiple sets of liquid cooling components, each set of liquid cooling components is correspondingly installed on each energy storage battery pack 102; the multiple sets of liquid cooling components are all connected in parallel to the circulation pipeline 103.

[0049] In this embodiment, each energy storage component consists of multiple energy storage battery packs 102 to improve energy density. Each energy storage battery pack 102 is equipped with a set of liquid cooling components to improve heat dissipation efficiency. The multiple sets of liquid cooling components are also connected to the circulation pipeline 103 in parallel to improve space utilization and heat dissipation effect.

[0050] Specifically, the circulation pipeline 103 includes an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. The outlet of the liquid cooling component is connected in parallel to the outlet pipe, and the inlet of the liquid cooling component is connected in parallel to the inlet pipe. The outlet of the first quick connector 105 is connected to the outlet pipe, and the inlet of the first quick connector 105 is connected to the inlet pipe.

[0051] Specifically, the liquid cooling component is a liquid cooling pipeline surrounding the outer periphery of the energy storage battery pack 102.

[0052] The installation and working principle of the energy storage system provided in this embodiment are as follows: A corresponding number of thermal management devices 2 can be selected based on the number of energy storage components in the energy storage device 1 and the required target cooling capacity. The thermal management devices 2 are installed on the top, bottom, and sides of the cabinet 101 according to the actual space size where the energy storage device 1 is located. During connection, only the first quick-connect connector 105 and the second quick-connect connector 204 need to be quickly plugged in, enabling communication between the energy storage monitoring unit 104 and the thermal management monitoring unit 205. The connection method is simple, achieving structural decoupling between the thermal management device 2 and the energy storage device 1. During operation, the energy storage monitoring unit 104 collects the temperature and temperature change rate of the energy storage device 1 and calculates... The target cooling capacity required for the desired cooling is determined. Based on the target cooling capacity and the maximum cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2 fed back by the thermal management monitoring unit 205, the number of thermal management devices 2 required to meet the target cooling capacity is determined, so that the sum of the maximum cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2 is greater than or equal to the target cooling capacity. The corresponding thermal management device 2 is controlled to operate cooling to meet the cooling demand. Different cooling capacity requirements can be flexibly adapted according to the control strategy, achieving minimum auxiliary power consumption and reducing the cost of use. This solves the problem that integrating the thermal management system into the container or outdoor cabinet of the energy storage system occupies the space and weight of the energy storage system and reduces the energy density of the energy storage system.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present invention, on the other hand, such as Figure 7 As shown, a control method for an energy storage system is also provided, applied to an energy storage system operating as described in any embodiment of the first aspect, comprising the following steps: Step S1: Collect temperature information and temperature change information of energy storage device 1 through energy storage monitoring unit 104, and calculate the required target cooling capacity information.

[0054] In this embodiment, by collecting the temperature information and temperature change information of the energy storage device 1, that is, the temperature and temperature change rate of all cells in all energy storage battery packs 102, the required target cooling capacity information is calculated, that is, the target cooling capacity required to cool down the energy storage device 1.

[0055] Step S2: Obtain the preset cooling capacity information of each thermal management device 2 through the thermal management monitoring unit 205 and feed it back to the energy storage monitoring unit 104.

[0056] In this embodiment, the thermal management monitoring unit 205 feeds back the preset cooling capacity information of each thermal management device 2 to the energy storage monitoring unit 104, that is, the maximum cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2, and feeds it back to the energy storage monitoring unit 104 in real time. Thus, the number of thermal management devices 2 required to meet the target cooling capacity can be determined based on the maximum cooling capacity and the target cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2.

[0057] Step S3: Calculate the required number of thermal management devices 2 based on the target cooling capacity information and the preset cooling capacity information, and control the operation of the corresponding thermal management devices 2.

[0058] In this embodiment, the energy storage monitoring unit 104 calculates based on the preset cooling capacity information and target cooling capacity information of each thermal management device 2, and then determines the number of thermal management devices 2 required to meet the target cooling capacity, so that the sum of the preset cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2 that needs to be operated is greater than or equal to the target cooling capacity. At the same time, it controls the operation of the corresponding number of thermal management devices 2 to meet the cooling demand. It can flexibly adapt to different cooling capacity requirements according to the control strategy, without having to run all thermal management devices 2 every time cooling is needed, thus minimizing auxiliary power consumption, reducing usage costs, and achieving a high degree of intelligence.

[0059] In this embodiment, the energy storage monitoring unit 104 collects the temperature and temperature change rate of the energy storage device 1 and calculates the target cooling capacity required for cooling. Based on the target cooling capacity and the maximum cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2 fed back by the thermal management monitoring unit 205, the number of thermal management devices 2 required to meet the target cooling capacity is determined, so that the total cooling capacity of the maximum cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2 is greater than or equal to the target cooling capacity. The corresponding thermal management device 2 is controlled to operate cooling to meet the cooling demand. It can flexibly adapt to different cooling capacity requirements according to the control strategy, achieve minimum auxiliary power consumption, reduce usage costs, and has a high degree of intelligence.

[0060] Specifically, step S1 includes: Step S101: Collect temperature information and temperature change information of all cells in all energy storage battery packs 102 through the energy storage monitoring unit 104.

[0061] Step S102: Extract the highest temperature and highest heating rate of the cells in the energy storage battery pack 102.

[0062] Step S103: Calculate the required target cooling capacity based on the highest temperature and the highest heating rate.

[0063] In this embodiment, the energy storage monitoring unit 104 monitors the temperature information and temperature change information of all cells in all energy storage battery packs 102 in real time, and extracts the highest temperature and highest heating rate of the cells in order to calculate the target cooling capacity that can meet the heat dissipation needs of all cells and ensure the heat dissipation effect.

[0064] Step S3 specifically includes: Step S301: Compare the sum of the preset cooling capacities of all thermal management devices 2 with the target cooling capacity.

[0065] Step S302: If the total preset cooling capacity is less than or equal to the target cooling capacity, then control all thermal management devices 2 to operate.

[0066] Step S303: If the total preset cooling capacity is greater than the target cooling capacity, the preset cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2 is sorted from largest to smallest, and the preset cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2 is added sequentially according to the sorting until the total preset cooling capacity is greater than or equal to the target cooling capacity, and the corresponding thermal management device 2 is controlled to operate.

[0067] It should be noted that the temperature change information includes, but is not limited to, the maximum heating rate.

[0068] In this embodiment, the energy storage monitoring unit 104 collects temperature information and temperature change information of all cells in all energy storage battery packs 102, and extracts the highest temperature and highest heating rate of the energy storage battery pack 102. Based on the highest temperature and highest heating rate, the required target cooling capacity is calculated to meet the overall cooling demand. Then, the thermal management monitoring unit 205 feeds back the preset cooling capacity of each thermal management device 2, and compares the sum of the preset cooling capacities of all thermal management devices 2 with the target cooling capacity. If the sum of the preset cooling capacities is less than or equal to the target cooling capacity, all thermal management devices 2 are controlled to operate. If the sum of the preset cooling capacities is greater than the target cooling capacity, the preset cooling capacities of each thermal management device 2 are sorted from largest to smallest, and the preset cooling capacities of each thermal management device 2 are added sequentially according to the sorting until the sum of the added preset cooling capacities is greater than or equal to the target cooling capacity. The corresponding thermal management device 2 is then controlled to operate to meet the cooling demand. Different cooling capacity requirements can be flexibly adapted according to the control strategy to minimize auxiliary power consumption and reduce operating costs.

[0069] In specific applications, such as Figure 8As shown, for example, n thermal management devices 2 are set up. The energy storage monitoring unit 104 collects the temperature and temperature change rate of all cells in all energy storage battery packs 102 in real time, extracts the highest temperature Tmax and temperature rise rate Tr of the cells, and calculates the current target cooling capacity Qr. 1 to n thermal management monitoring units 205 report the current maximum cooling capacity Q1, Q2...Qn of their respective thermal management devices 2 to the energy storage monitoring unit 104 in real time. The energy storage monitoring unit 104 performs calculations and comparisons. If Qr≥Q1+Q2+...+Qn, the energy storage monitoring unit 104 issues an operation command to the 1 to n thermal management monitoring units 205 to control... All thermal management devices 2 operate to provide the maximum cooling capacity to the energy storage device 1. If Qr < Q1 + Q2 + ... + Qn, the energy storage monitoring unit 104 sorts Q1, Q2 ... Qn from largest to smallest to obtain the sequence Q'1 ≥ Q'2 ... ≥ Q'n. If Q'1 + Q'2 + ... + Q'm ≥ Qr and Q'1 + Q'2 + ... + Q'm-1 < Qr (m ≤ n), which are natural numbers, then the energy storage monitoring unit 104 issues an operation command to the 1~m thermal management monitoring units 205 corresponding to Q'1, Q'2 ... Q'm, so that activating the minimum number of thermal management devices 2 can meet the cooling capacity requirements of the energy storage device 1 and achieve the lowest power consumption.

[0070] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An energy storage system, characterized in that, include: The energy storage device (1) has a liquid cooling mechanism and an energy storage monitoring unit (104), and the liquid cooling mechanism is connected to a first quick connector (105). At least one thermal management device (2) has a drive mechanism (202) and a thermal management monitoring unit (205), and the drive mechanism (202) is connected to a second quick connector (204). The first quick-connect connector (105) and the second quick-connect connector (204) are connected to each other to enable the liquid cooling mechanism and the drive mechanism (202) to form a circulation loop; The energy storage monitoring unit (104) is communicatively connected to the thermal management monitoring unit (205) and is used to control the number of thermal management devices (2) to be turned on based on the temperature information and temperature change information of the energy storage device (1).

2. The energy storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal management device (2) also has a refrigerant mechanism (203); the refrigerant mechanism (203) is connected to the drive mechanism (202) and is used to cool the cooling medium passing through the drive mechanism (202).

3. The energy storage system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The refrigerant mechanism (203) includes a compressor (2031), a condenser (2032), a fan (2033), an evaporator (2034), and an electronic expansion valve (2035); the compressor (2031), the condenser (2032), the evaporator (2034), and the electronic expansion valve (2035) are sequentially connected in a refrigerant pipeline (2036); the fan (2033) is mounted on the condenser (2032) for heat dissipation; the evaporator (2034) is connected to the drive mechanism (202).

4. The energy storage system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (202) includes a first pipe (2021), a second pipe (2022), and a water pump (2023); one end of the first pipe (2021) is connected to the outlet of the second quick connector (204), and the other end is connected to the input of the water pump (2023); the first pipe (2021) is connected to the refrigerant mechanism (203); one end of the second pipe (2022) is connected to the inlet of the second quick connector (204), and the other end is connected to the output of the water pump (2023).

5. The energy storage system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The thermal management device (2) also has a housing (201), in which the refrigerant mechanism (203), the drive mechanism (202) and the thermal management monitoring unit (205) are all disposed.

6. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The energy storage device (1) includes: Cabinet (101); At least one set of energy storage components is disposed inside the cabinet (101); each set of energy storage components is provided with a corresponding set of liquid cooling mechanisms; The circulation pipeline (103) is connected in parallel to the liquid cooling mechanism; the circulation pipeline (103) is connected to the first quick-connect connector (105).

7. The energy storage system according to claim 6, characterized in that, Each group of energy storage components includes multiple energy storage battery packs (102); the liquid cooling mechanism includes multiple groups of liquid cooling components, each group of liquid cooling components is correspondingly arranged on each energy storage battery pack (102); the multiple groups of liquid cooling components are connected in parallel to the circulation pipeline (103).

8. A control method for an energy storage system, characterized in that, Applied to operating an energy storage system as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising the following steps: The energy storage monitoring unit (104) collects the temperature information and temperature change information of the energy storage device (1) and calculates the required target cooling capacity information. The preset cooling capacity information of each thermal management device (2) is obtained by the thermal management monitoring unit (205) and fed back to the energy storage monitoring unit (104). The required number of thermal management devices (2) is calculated based on the target cooling capacity information and the preset cooling capacity information, and the corresponding thermal management devices (2) are controlled to operate.

9. The control method for the energy storage system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The process of collecting temperature information and temperature change information of the energy storage device (1) through the energy storage monitoring unit (104) and calculating the required target cooling capacity includes: The energy storage monitoring unit (104) collects temperature information and temperature change information of all cells in all energy storage battery packs (102); Extract the highest temperature and highest heating rate of the cells in the energy storage battery pack (102); The required target cooling capacity is calculated based on the highest temperature and the highest heating rate.

10. The control method for the energy storage system according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The step of calculating the required number of thermal management devices (2) based on the target cooling capacity information and the preset cooling capacity information, and controlling the operation of the corresponding thermal management devices (2) includes: Compare the sum of the preset cooling capacities of all the thermal management devices (2) with the target cooling capacities; If the sum of the preset cooling capacities is less than or equal to the target cooling capacities, then control all of the thermal management devices (2) to operate; If the total preset cooling capacity is greater than the target cooling capacity, the preset cooling capacity of each thermal management device (2) is sorted from largest to smallest, and the preset cooling capacity of each thermal management device (2) is added sequentially according to the sorting until the total preset cooling capacity is greater than or equal to the target cooling capacity, and the corresponding thermal management device (2) is controlled to operate.

Images