Thermal management system

Abstract

The application discloses a heat management system, belonging to the technical field of heat management, which comprises a first liquid cooling circuit, a second liquid cooling circuit, a refrigerant circuit, a first heat exchange component, a second heat exchange component, a third heat exchange component, a first valve assembly and a second valve assembly; the first heat exchange component has a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel which exchange heat with each other, the first heat exchange channel is connected in series to the first liquid cooling circuit, and the second heat exchange channel is connected in series to the refrigerant circuit; the second heat exchange component comprises a first liquid cooling flow channel, a first refrigerant flow channel and a first heat exchange part; the third heat exchange component comprises a second refrigerant flow channel, a second heat exchange part and a second liquid cooling flow channel; the first valve assembly is connected with the first liquid cooling circuit, the second liquid cooling circuit and the first liquid cooling flow channel respectively; and the second valve assembly is connected with the first refrigerant flow channel, the second refrigerant flow channel and the refrigerant circuit respectively. The heat management system realizes the multiplexing of the heat exchanger under the switching of multiple modes, and has the advantages of small size and high energy efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of thermal management technology, and more particularly to a thermal management system. Background Technology

[0002] Thermal management systems are widely used in energy storage, power electronics, data centers, and other fields to control the temperature of heat-generating equipment (such as batteries and power conversion devices). A typical thermal management system includes a liquid cooling circuit and a refrigerant circuit, using heat exchangers to achieve heat exchange between different media to ensure that the equipment operates within a suitable temperature range. To simultaneously meet the heat dissipation needs of multiple heat sources, the system often uses multiple independent heat exchange components, such as an air cooler for batteries, a separate radiator for power conversion devices, and a condenser for refrigerants.

[0003] However, the above solutions usually result in complex system structures, redundant components, increased space occupation, and a lack of coordination between loops, which affects the overall energy efficiency and integration of the system. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a thermal management system that aims to solve the technical problems of the aforementioned thermal management system, such as complex structure, redundant components, large space occupation, and impact on the overall energy efficiency and integration of the system.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides a thermal management system, comprising: First liquid cooling circuit; Second liquid cooling circuit; Refrigerant circuit; The first heat exchanger has a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel that exchange heat with each other. The first heat exchange channel is connected in series with the first liquid cooling circuit, and the second heat exchange channel is connected in series with the refrigerant circuit. The second heat exchanger includes a first liquid cooling channel, a first refrigerant channel and a first heat exchange section. The first heat exchange section is used to exchange heat between the external medium and the medium in the first liquid cooling channel and the first refrigerant channel. The third heat exchanger includes a second refrigerant channel, a second heat exchange section and a second liquid cooling channel. The second heat exchange section is used to exchange heat between the external medium and the medium in the second refrigerant channel and the second liquid cooling channel. The second liquid cooling channel is connected in series with the second liquid cooling circuit. A first valve assembly is connected to the first liquid cooling circuit, the second liquid cooling circuit, and the first liquid cooling channel, respectively, and is used to selectively control the connection relationship between the three. The second valve assembly is connected to the first refrigerant channel, the second refrigerant channel and the refrigerant circuit respectively, and is used to selectively control the connection relationship between the three.

[0006] In some embodiments, the second liquid cooling channel is connected to the first valve assembly.

[0007] In some embodiments, the refrigerant circuit includes a compressor and an expansion valve; The thermal management system also includes: A first bypass passage, one end of which is connected to the inlet end of the compressor, and the other end of which is connected to the outlet end of the compressor. A second bypass passage, one end of which is connected to the inlet end of the expansion valve, and the other end of which is connected to the outlet end of the expansion valve; A fluorine pump, wherein the fluorine pump is disposed in the first bypass passage or the second bypass passage.

[0008] In some embodiments, a first water pump is provided on the first liquid cooling circuit, and a second water pump is provided on the second liquid cooling circuit; The thermal management system also includes: The third bypass passage has one end connected to the inlet end of the second water pump and the other end connected to the outlet end of the second water pump.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first liquid cooling circuit includes a first sub-circuit and a second sub-circuit, both of which are connected to the first valve assembly; The first sub-circuit is equipped with a battery module and a heating element; The second sub-circuit is equipped with a first water pump; The second liquid cooling circuit is equipped with a power module and a second water pump.

[0010] In some embodiments, the refrigerant circuit includes a third sub-circuit and a fourth sub-circuit, both of which are connected to the second valve assembly; The third sub-circuit includes a first heat exchanger and an expansion valve; The fourth sub-circuit includes a compressor.

[0011] In some embodiments, the thermal management system includes: A fluorine-side module, which integrates the expansion valve, the first heat exchanger and the second valve assembly; The water-side module integrates the first valve assembly, the heating element, the first water pump, and the second water pump.

[0012] In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a heat exchanger group, a fluorine-side pipe group, and a water-side pipe group, wherein the heat exchanger group includes at least one second heat exchanger and at least one third heat exchanger. There are multiple fluoride-side modules and multiple water-side modules; Multiple fluorine-side modules are connected in parallel to the fluorine-side pipe assembly, the first refrigerant flow channel of at least one second heat exchanger is connected to the fluorine-side pipe assembly, and the second refrigerant flow channel of at least one third heat exchanger is connected to the fluorine-side pipe assembly. Multiple water-side modules are connected in parallel to the water-side pipe assembly, at least one of the first liquid-cooled flow channels of the second heat exchanger is connected to the water-side pipe assembly, and at least one of the second liquid-cooled flow channels of the third heat exchanger is connected to the water-side pipe assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger assembly includes at least one fourth heat exchanger element, and the third heat exchange channel of at least one of the fourth heat exchanger elements is connected to the fluorine side tube assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a fixing member, the fluorine-side module is disposed on one side of the fixing member, and the water-side module is disposed on the side of the fixing member opposite to the fluorine-side module.

[0015] The thermal management system disclosed in this application, by setting a first valve assembly to selectively control the connection between the first liquid cooling circuit, the second liquid cooling circuit, and the first liquid cooling channel of the second heat exchanger, and by setting a second valve assembly to selectively control the connection between the first refrigerant channel, the second refrigerant channel, and the refrigerant circuit, allows the system to flexibly switch between compression refrigeration mode, natural cooling mode, and hybrid heat dissipation mode without adding additional hardware, realizing the functional reuse of the second heat exchanger under different operating conditions. Simultaneously, by fixing the second liquid cooling channel of the third heat exchanger in series with the second liquid cooling circuit, a stable and reliable basic heat dissipation path is provided for the second liquid cooling circuit, simplifying the control strategy of the first valve assembly and reducing system complexity and cost. Through the coordinated control of the valve assemblies, the system can dynamically optimize the heat dissipation path according to the heat source load and ambient temperature, improving the problem of idle heat exchange hardware and enhancing overall energy efficiency and adaptability to operating conditions.

[0016] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals in the following description denote the same parts.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the piping of the thermal management system according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 9 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 10 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 11 This is a piping diagram of a thermal management system according to another embodiment of this application.

[0020] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 100, First liquid cooling circuit; 200, Second liquid cooling circuit; 300, Refrigerant circuit; 400, First heat exchanger; 410, First heat exchange channel; 420, Second heat exchange channel; 500, Second heat exchanger; 510, First liquid cooling channel; 520, First refrigerant channel; 530, First heat exchange section; 600, Third heat exchanger; 610, Second refrigerant channel; 620, Second heat exchange section; 700, First valve assembly; 800, Second valve assembly; 630, Second liquid cooling channel; 301, Compressor; 302, Expansion valve; 310, First bypass passage; 32 0. Second bypass passage; 303. Refrigerant pump; 304. First valve; 305. Second valve; 306. Third valve; 110. First sub-circuit; 120. Second sub-circuit; 330. Third sub-circuit; 340. Fourth sub-circuit; 101. Battery module; 102. Heating element; 103. First water pump; 201. Power module; 202. Second water pump; 210. Third bypass passage; 203. Fourth valve; 204. Fifth valve; 10. Water-side module; 20. Refrigerant-side module; 30. Heat exchanger assembly; 40. Refrigerant-side piping assembly; 50. Water-side piping assembly; 60. Fixing component; 900, Fourth heat exchanger. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the protection scope of this application.

[0022] In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, and "at least one" can mean one, two, or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified. Terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are used for convenience of description and are not intended to imply any order of importance between the components or embodiments.

[0023] Thermal management systems are widely used in energy storage, power electronics, and data centers to control the temperature of heat-generating equipment such as batteries and power conversion devices. A typical thermal management system includes a liquid cooling loop and a refrigerant loop, using heat exchangers to facilitate heat exchange between different media, ensuring the equipment operates within a suitable temperature range. To simultaneously meet the heat dissipation needs of multiple heat sources, the system often employs multiple independent heat exchange components; for example, an air cooler for batteries, a separate radiator for power conversion devices, and a condenser for refrigerants. However, this approach typically results in a complex system structure, redundant components, increased space requirements, and a lack of coordination between loops, impacting the overall energy efficiency and integration of the system.

[0024] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a thermal management system aimed at solving at least one of the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0025] Please see Figure 1 As shown, the thermal management system includes a first liquid cooling circuit 100, a second liquid cooling circuit 200, a refrigerant circuit 300, a first heat exchanger 400, a second heat exchanger 500, a third heat exchanger 600, a first valve assembly 700, and a second valve assembly 800. The first liquid cooling circuit 100 and the second liquid cooling circuit 200 are connected to different heat sources. Specifically, the first liquid cooling circuit 100 is connected to a battery module 101, and the second liquid cooling circuit 200 is connected to a power module 201. The refrigerant circuit 300 can refer to a circulation loop formed by the compressor 301 and the expansion valve 302. The first heat exchanger 400 has a first heat exchange channel 410 and a second heat exchange channel 420 that exchange heat with each other. The first heat exchange channel 410 is connected in series with the first liquid cooling circuit 100, and the second heat exchange channel 420 is connected in series with the refrigerant circuit 300. Specifically, the first heat exchanger 400 can be a plate heat exchanger. The second heat exchanger 500 includes a first liquid cooling channel 510, a first refrigerant channel 520, and a first heat exchange section 530. The first heat exchange section 530 is used to exchange heat between the external medium and the media in the first liquid cooling channel 510 and the first refrigerant channel 520. Specifically, the medium flowing in the first liquid cooling channel 510 is a coolant, such as water. The medium flowing in the first refrigerant channel 520 is a refrigerant.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first heat exchange section 530 may be a fan disposed outside the housing of the second heat exchange member 500. Specifically, the second heat exchange member 500 includes a housing with a first liquid cooling channel 510 and a first refrigerant channel 520 formed internally. The housing may be made of a material with good thermal conductivity (such as aluminum, copper, or their alloys). During operation, the heat carried by the coolant in the first liquid cooling channel 510 and / or the refrigerant in the first refrigerant channel 520 is first transferred to the housing, and heat exchange occurs between the external medium (such as air) and the housing through the first heat exchange section 530. When air flows over the surface of the housing, heat is transferred by the air, thereby achieving cooling of the coolant and / or refrigerant flowing through the second heat exchange member 500. To enhance the heat exchange effect on the air side, heat dissipation fins may be provided on the outer surface of the housing to increase the heat exchange area.

[0027] The third heat exchanger 600 includes a second refrigerant channel 610, a second heat exchange section 620, and a second liquid-cooled channel 630. The second heat exchange section 620 is used to exchange heat between an external medium (such as air) and the media in the second refrigerant channel 610 and the second liquid-cooled channel 630. The second liquid-cooled channel 630 is connected in series with the second liquid-cooled circuit 200. The medium flowing in the second refrigerant channel 610 is also a refrigerant, and the medium in the second liquid-cooled channel 630 is also a coolant. The structure of the second heat exchange section 620 is the same as that of the first heat exchange section 530, and will not be described again here. In this application, the second liquid-cooled channel 630 of the third heat exchanger 600 is fixedly connected in series with the second liquid-cooled circuit 200, providing a basic liquid-cooled heat dissipation path for heat sources such as the power module 201.

[0028] Both the second heat exchanger 500 and the third heat exchanger 600 in this application employ a three-medium heat exchanger. The three-medium heat exchanger has a water channel, a refrigerant channel, and a fan. Two sets of fins are provided on the outer side of the shell forming the water channel and the refrigerant channel, one set corresponding to the water channel and the other to the refrigerant channel. The fins are used to increase the heat exchange area between the external air and the medium inside the channel. When only the water channel is working, the fins corresponding to the outer side of the refrigerant channel can be used to a certain extent by the water channel, allowing more air to exchange heat with the water channel, thus superimposing the heat exchange effect. When only the refrigerant channel is working, the fins corresponding to the outer side of the water channel can be used to a certain extent by the refrigerant channel, allowing more air to exchange heat with the refrigerant channel, thus superimposing the heat exchange effect. Compared to two dual-channel heat exchangers, when one dual-channel heat exchanger is not working, its heat dissipation fins cannot be used for heat dissipation of the other dual-channel heat exchanger.

[0029] The first valve assembly 700 is connected to the first liquid cooling circuit 100, the second liquid cooling circuit 200, and the first liquid cooling flow channel 510, respectively, for selectively controlling the connection between the three. The first valve assembly 700 has multiple interfaces. Specifically, the first valve assembly 700 can refer to a six-way valve (such as...). Figure 1(As shown). The six-way valve has two ports connected to the inlet and outlet of the first liquid cooling circuit 100, respectively; two other ports connected to the inlet and outlet of the second liquid cooling circuit 200, respectively; and the remaining two ports connected to the inlet and outlet of the first liquid cooling channel 510 of the second heat exchanger 500. By rotating the valve core, multiple connection modes can be switched. The specific connection modes include the following three: Connection Mode 1: The first liquid cooling circuit 100 is connected to the first liquid cooling channel 510, while the second liquid cooling circuit 200 is disconnected from the first liquid cooling channel 510. Connection Mode 2: The second liquid cooling circuit 200 is connected to the first liquid cooling channel 510, while the first liquid cooling circuit 100 is disconnected from the first liquid cooling channel 510. Connection Mode 3: The first liquid cooling circuit 100 and the second liquid cooling circuit 200 are connected, and both are connected to the first liquid cooling channel 510.

[0030] The second valve assembly 800 is connected to the first refrigerant channel 520, the second refrigerant channel 610, and the refrigerant circuit 300, respectively, for selectively controlling the connection between the three. The second valve assembly 800 has multiple ports. Specifically, the second valve assembly 800 can be a six-way valve. Two ports of this six-way valve are connected to the inlet and outlet of the first refrigerant channel 520, respectively; another two ports are connected to the inlet and outlet of the second refrigerant channel 610, respectively; and the remaining two ports are connected to the inlet and outlet of the refrigerant circuit 300. By rotating the valve core, multiple connection modes can be switched. The specific connection modes include the following three: Connection Mode 1: The refrigerant circuit 300 is connected to the first refrigerant flow channel 520, but disconnected from the second refrigerant flow channel 610. Connection Mode 2: The refrigerant circuit 300 is connected to the second refrigerant flow channel 610, but disconnected from the first refrigerant flow channel 520. Connection Mode 3: The refrigerant circuit 300 is connected to both the first refrigerant flow channel 520 and the second refrigerant flow channel 610.

[0031] Through the control of the first valve assembly 700 and the second valve assembly 800, the thermal management system includes the following operating modes: In compression refrigeration mode one, only the second heat exchanger 500 functions as a condenser. The second valve assembly 800 connects the refrigerant circuit 300 to the first refrigerant channel 520 and disconnects the refrigerant circuit 300 from the second refrigerant channel 610. The first valve assembly 700 connects or disconnects the second liquid cooling circuit 200 from the first liquid cooling channel 510 as needed.

[0032] In compression refrigeration mode (not shown), compressor 301 in refrigerant circuit 300 operates. High-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant enters the first refrigerant flow channel 520 of the second heat exchanger 500 through the second valve assembly 800. The refrigerant in the first refrigerant flow channel 520 exchanges heat with the outside air, and the refrigerant condenses into a liquid state. The liquid refrigerant enters the second heat exchange channel 420 after throttling, absorbing heat from the coolant in the first liquid cooling circuit 100, thus providing cooling for the first liquid cooling circuit 100. The coolant in the first liquid cooling circuit 100 flows through the heat source (such as battery module 101) and the first heat exchange channel 410, completing the cooling cycle. After absorbing heat by flowing through power module 201, the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200 flows through the second liquid cooling flow channel 630 and exchanges heat with the outside air, thus cooling the coolant. In addition, the first valve assembly 700 can selectively introduce part or all of the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200 into the first liquid cooling channel 510 to assist in enhancing heat dissipation, according to the heat dissipation requirements of the second liquid cooling circuit 200.

[0033] In compression refrigeration mode two, only the third heat exchanger 600 functions as a condenser. The second valve assembly 800 connects the refrigerant circuit 300 to the second refrigerant channel 610, and disconnects the refrigerant circuit 300 from the first refrigerant channel 520. The first valve assembly 700 connects or disconnects the second liquid cooling circuit 200 from the first liquid cooling channel 510 as needed.

[0034] Please see Figure 2 In compression refrigeration mode two, after the refrigerant is compressed by compressor 301, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows through the second valve assembly 800 and the second refrigerant flow channel 610. The refrigerant in the second refrigerant flow channel 610 exchanges heat with the outside air, and the refrigerant condenses into a liquid state. The liquid refrigerant is throttled into the second heat exchange channel 420, absorbing heat from the coolant in the first liquid cooling circuit 100, thus cooling the first liquid cooling circuit 100. In addition, the second liquid cooling circuit 200 can be selectively allowed to flow through the first liquid cooling flow channel 510 of the second heat exchanger 500 for heat dissipation via the first valve assembly 700.

[0035] In the third compression refrigeration mode, the second heat exchanger 500 and the third heat exchanger 600 together function as a condenser. The second valve assembly 800 connects the refrigerant circuit 300 in series with the second refrigerant channel 610 and the first refrigerant channel 520. The first valve assembly 700 connects the second liquid cooling circuit 200 in series with the first liquid cooling channel 510 and the second liquid cooling channel 630.

[0036] Please see Figure 3In compression refrigeration mode three, i.e., the compression mode with the highest load (high-temperature compression refrigeration mode), the thermal management system operates under the most severe conditions, requiring maximum cooling of battery module 101 and power module 201. After being compressed by compressor 301, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows through the second valve assembly 800, the second refrigerant channel 610, and the first refrigerant channel 520. The refrigerant undergoes its first heat exchange with the outside air while flowing through the second refrigerant channel 610, and a second heat exchange with the outside air while flowing through the first refrigerant channel 520, causing the refrigerant to condense into a liquid state. The liquid refrigerant is throttled into the second heat exchange channel 420, absorbing heat from the coolant in the first liquid cooling circuit 100, thus cooling the first liquid cooling circuit 100. The coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200, after absorbing heat by flowing through power module 201, flows through the first liquid cooling channel 510 and the second liquid cooling channel 630, undergoing two heat exchanges with the outside air, thus cooling the coolant.

[0037] The second heat exchanger 500 and the third heat exchanger 600 are connected in series on the refrigerant side as a two-stage condenser, which expands the condensation heat exchange area and effectively reduces the condensation temperature and pressure. Secondly, the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200 flows through the liquid cooling channels of the two heat exchangers after passing through the power module 201. The coolant temperature in the liquid cooling channels is low, which not only dissipates heat from the power module 201 but also assists in cooling the refrigerant in the heat exchangers, thereby effectively reducing the power consumption of the compressor 301 and improving the system's energy efficiency ratio. Furthermore, both heat exchangers are used in compression mode, reducing the hardware waste caused by some heat exchangers being idle in traditional solutions.

[0038] Understandably, in the aforementioned compression refrigeration modes one, two, and three, if the second liquid cooling circuit 200 ultimately chooses to dissipate heat through the first liquid cooling channel 510 via the first valve assembly 700, then the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200, after absorbing heat through the power module 201, can flow through the first liquid cooling channel 510 and the second liquid cooling channel 630. If the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200 flows through both the first liquid cooling channel 510 and the second liquid cooling channel 630, its cooling path is longer, increasing the number of heat exchanges with the external air and resulting in higher heat dissipation efficiency. If the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200 only flows through the second liquid cooling channel 630, its circulation path is relatively shorter, improving circulation efficiency.

[0039] Understandably, the liquid coolant flowing through both heat exchangers can exchange heat with the outside air, resulting in a lower coolant temperature in the second liquid cooling circuit 200 (compared to the case where the coolant flows through only one heat exchanger). This not only better cools the power module 201, but also lowers the liquid temperature of the coolant entering the first liquid cooling circuit 510, and in some cases, can even cool the refrigerant in the first refrigerant circuit 520. Based on this, even if the power consumption of the compressor 301 is reduced to some extent, the cooling effect of the first heat exchanger 400 on the first liquid cooling circuit 100 can be guaranteed, thereby improving overall energy efficiency.

[0040] When the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200 flows through the second liquid cooling channel 630, if the water temperature is lower than the refrigerant temperature in the second refrigerant channel 610, it will absorb heat from the high-temperature refrigerant in the second refrigerant channel 610. In this case, the coolant actually plays a certain role in assisting condensation. Similarly, when the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200 flows through the first liquid cooling channel 510, if the water temperature is lower than the refrigerant temperature in the first refrigerant channel 520, it will absorb heat from the high-temperature refrigerant in the first refrigerant channel 520. In this case, the coolant actually plays a certain role in assisting condensation. Specifically, if the second liquid cooling circuit 200 is connected to both liquid cooling channels, the auxiliary effect is stronger. If the water temperature flowing through the heat exchanger is higher than the refrigerant temperature flowing through the same heat exchanger, the same fan can be used to evenly dissipate heat, achieving a convergence of water temperature and refrigerant temperature.

[0041] In natural cooling mode one, compressor 301 is not operating. Compressor 301 in the refrigerant circuit 300 stops, and refrigerant does not circulate. In this mode, the second valve assembly 800 can be in any state, meaning there is no flow in the refrigerant circuit 300. Therefore, the refrigerant circuit 300 in the first heat exchanger 400 is stationary and does not participate in heat exchange. Both battery module 101 and power module 201 achieve cooling of the coolant in their respective liquid cooling circuits solely through heat exchange with the air.

[0042] Please see Figure 4In natural cooling mode, the first valve assembly 700 connects the first liquid cooling circuit 100 to the first liquid cooling channel 510. After absorbing heat from a heat source (such as the battery module 101), the coolant in the first liquid cooling circuit 100 flows into the first liquid cooling channel 510 through the first valve assembly 700. The coolant in the first liquid cooling channel 510 exchanges heat with the outside air, transferring the heat from the coolant to the outside air. The cooled coolant then returns to the first liquid cooling circuit 100. In some embodiments, the first valve assembly 700 connects the second liquid cooling circuit 200 to the first liquid cooling channel 510 (not shown), and the second liquid cooling circuit 200 can also introduce its coolant into the first liquid cooling channel 510 for heat dissipation. In some embodiments, the first liquid cooling circuit 100, the second liquid cooling circuit 200, and the first liquid cooling channel 510 are connected in series. Both the first liquid cooling circuit 100 and the second liquid cooling circuit 200 can exchange heat with the outside air through fans in the two heat exchangers, thereby achieving cooling of the coolant in the first liquid cooling circuit 100 and the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200. The specific connection method can be determined according to the disclosure and is not limited here. In this mode, there is no power consumption of the compressor 301, only the power consumption of the water pump and the fan, resulting in high energy efficiency.

[0043] Understandably, the above-described implementation allows the system to selectively control the connectivity between the first liquid cooling circuit 100, the second liquid cooling circuit 200, and the first liquid cooling channel 510 via the first valve assembly 700, and selectively control the connectivity between the first refrigerant channel 520, the second refrigerant channel 610, and the refrigerant circuit 300 via the second valve assembly 800. This enables the system to flexibly switch between compression refrigeration mode and natural cooling mode without adding additional hardware, achieving functional reuse of the second heat exchanger 500 under different operating conditions. This reduces the number of heat exchangers and piping connections, lowering system size and cost. Simultaneously, through the coordinated control of the valve assemblies, the system can dynamically optimize the heat dissipation path based on the heat source load and ambient temperature, reducing idle heat exchange hardware and improving overall energy efficiency and adaptability to operating conditions.

[0044] Please see Figure 5 In some embodiments, the second liquid cooling channel 630 can also be connected to the first valve assembly 700, allowing the first valve assembly 700 to selectively control the connection state between the second liquid cooling circuit 200 and the first liquid cooling channel 510 and / or the second liquid cooling channel 630. That is, the first valve assembly 700 additionally provides two interfaces for connecting the two ports of the second liquid cooling channel 630.

[0045] In compression refrigeration mode, the first valve assembly 700 can introduce coolant from the second liquid cooling circuit 200 into the first liquid cooling channel 510 and / or the second liquid cooling channel 630. The second liquid cooling circuit 200 can dissipate heat using either the second heat exchanger 500 or the third heat exchanger 600 alone, or simultaneously using both. In natural cooling mode, when the compressor 301 is off, the first valve assembly 700 can introduce coolant from the first liquid cooling circuit 100 and / or the second liquid cooling circuit 200 into the first liquid cooling channel 510 and / or the second liquid cooling channel 630.

[0046] With the above configuration, the first valve assembly 700 can selectively introduce coolant from the first liquid cooling circuit 100 and / or the second liquid cooling circuit 200 into the first liquid cooling channel 510 and / or the second liquid cooling channel 630. In this way, when the first liquid cooling channel 510 of the second heat exchanger 500 fails to work properly, the second liquid cooling channel 630 of the third heat exchanger 600 can serve as a backup heat dissipation path, thereby improving system reliability.

[0047] When the first liquid-cooled flow channel 510 of the second heat exchanger 500 fails to operate normally due to any reason (such as blockage, leakage, or fan failure), the first valve assembly 700 can switch to allow the liquid cooling circuit to rely entirely on the second liquid-cooled flow channel 630 of the third heat exchanger 600 for heat dissipation. Conversely, the same applies. This mutual backup design improves the system's fault tolerance and operational reliability, reducing the risk of the entire thermal management system failing due to a single heat exchanger failure. By independently or collaboratively controlling the first liquid-cooled flow channel 510 and the second liquid-cooled flow channel 630 through the first valve assembly 700, differentiated heat dissipation for different heat sources can be achieved.

[0048] Please see Figure 6 or Figure 7 In some embodiments, the refrigerant circuit 300 includes a compressor 301 and an expansion valve 302. The thermal management system further includes a first bypass passage 310, a second bypass passage 320, and a refrigerant pump 303. One end of the first bypass passage 310 is connected to the inlet end of the compressor 301, and the other end of the first bypass passage 310 is connected to the outlet end of the compressor 301. The first bypass passage 310 is used to bypass the circuit containing the compressor 301 when the compressor 301 is stopped, so that the refrigerant is driven to flow in the refrigerant circuit 300 by the refrigerant pump 303. One end of the second bypass passage 320 is connected to the inlet end of the expansion valve 302, and the other end of the second bypass passage 320 is connected to the outlet end of the expansion valve 302. The second bypass passage 320 is used to bypass the expansion valve 302 when the compressor 301 is stopped, so that the refrigerant flows around the expansion valve 302. The refrigerant pump 303 is disposed in either the first bypass passage 310 or the second bypass passage 320.

[0049] Understandably, the refrigerant circuit 300 is also equipped with a valve assembly for selectively controlling the refrigerant pump 303 or the compressor 301 to supply refrigerant to the refrigerant circuit 300. In some embodiments, please refer to... Figure 6 The fluorine pump 303 is disposed in the second bypass passage 320. In some embodiments, please refer to... Figure 7 The fluorine pump 303 is installed in the first bypass passage 310.

[0050] In natural cooling mode two, compressor 301 does not operate. The refrigerant is driven by refrigerant pump 303 to circulate in refrigerant circuit 300. Utilizing the refrigerant-side heat exchange capacity of the heat exchanger, battery module 101 achieves "dual-source heat dissipation" through air cooling and refrigerant cooling, improving energy efficiency. In the second liquid cooling circuit 200, the coolant flowing through power module 201 exchanges heat with both the refrigerant and the outside air within the third heat exchanger 600.

[0051] Please see Figure 6 In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a first valve 304, a second valve 305, and a third valve 306. Specifically, the first valve 304 is disposed on the first bypass passage 310. The third valve 306 is disposed on the main passage where the compressor 301 is connected in parallel with the first bypass passage 310. The second valve 305 is disposed on the second bypass passage 320. When the third valve 306 is open and the first valve 304 and the second valve 305 are closed, the refrigerant is driven to flow in the refrigerant circuit 300 by the compressor 301. When the third valve 306 and the expansion valve 302 are closed, and the first valve 304 and the second valve 305 are open, the refrigerant is forced to flow into the first bypass passage 310 and the second bypass passage 320, and is driven to flow in the refrigerant circuit 300 by the refrigerant pump 303.

[0052] In compression refrigeration mode, the first valve 304 is closed, the second valve 305 is closed, and the third valve 306 is open, connecting the main circuit where the compressor 301 is located. At this time, the refrigerant pump 303 does not work, and the compressor 301 provides the circulation power.

[0053] In natural cooling mode two, compressor 301 stops, third valve 306 closes, cutting off the main circuit of compressor 301, first valve 304 opens, and second valve 305 opens. At this time, refrigerant pump 303 starts, driving refrigerant to circulate in the circuit. In this mode, the refrigerant circuit 300 is connected in series with the first refrigerant channel 520 and the second refrigerant channel 610 via the second valve assembly 800, and the first liquid cooling circuit 100 is connected in series with the first liquid cooling channel of the second heat exchanger 500 via the first valve assembly 700, and the second liquid cooling circuit 200 is connected in series with the second liquid cooling channel 630 of the third heat exchanger 600. The refrigerant flows through refrigerant pump 303, second heat exchange channel 420, second refrigerant channel 610, first refrigerant channel 520, and second bypass channel 320. In this process, the refrigerant exchanges heat with the outside air in the third heat exchanger 600 and the second heat exchanger 500, achieving refrigerant release and condensation. After bypassing the expansion valve 302, the refrigerant enters the first heat exchanger 400, absorbs heat from the coolant in the first liquid cooling circuit 100, and evaporates, thereby cooling the battery module 101. Simultaneously, the coolant in the first liquid cooling circuit 100 dissipates heat to the air in the first liquid cooling channel 510 of the second heat exchanger 500, and the coolant in the second liquid cooling circuit 200 dissipates heat to the air in the second liquid cooling channel 630 of the third heat exchanger 600.

[0054] With the above configuration, compressor 301 is completely shut down, with only refrigerant pump 303 and water pump operating, resulting in lower system energy consumption compared to the compression refrigeration mode. Secondly, both the refrigerant and liquid cooling sides utilize outdoor natural cold sources for heat dissipation, achieving dual-source natural cooling and extending the applicable ambient temperature range for natural cooling. Furthermore, both heat exchangers simultaneously serve refrigerant condensation and liquid cooling circuit heat dissipation, resulting in high hardware reuse rates.

[0055] Please see Figures 1 to 8 In some embodiments, a first water pump 103 is provided on the first liquid cooling circuit 100, and a second water pump 202 is provided on the second liquid cooling circuit 200.

[0056] In some embodiments, the orientation of the first water pump 103, the second water pump 202, and the compressor 301 can be adjusted so that the coolant flowing through the first liquid cooling channel 510 flows in the opposite direction to the refrigerant flowing through the first refrigerant channel 520, and the refrigerant flowing through the second refrigerant channel 610 flows in the opposite direction to the coolant flowing through the second liquid cooling channel 630, thereby forming convection and improving the heat exchange efficiency between the coolant and the refrigerant.

[0057] Please see Figure 8In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a third bypass passage 210, one end of which is connected to the inlet of the second water pump 202, and the other end of which is connected to the outlet of the second water pump 202. Specifically, in some embodiments, a fourth valve 203 may be provided on the third bypass passage 210, which is used to control the opening and closing of the third bypass passage 210. A fifth valve 204 may be provided on the second liquid cooling circuit 200 and connected in parallel with the third bypass passage 210. The thermal management system has two operating states: In the normal operating state of the second water pump 202, the fourth valve 203 is closed and the fifth valve 204 is open, and the coolant flows through the second water pump 202 and is driven by the second water pump 202 to circulate in the second liquid cooling circuit 200; In the bypass state of the second water pump 202, the fourth valve 203 is open and the fifth valve 204 is closed, and the coolant flows through the third bypass passage 210 without flowing through the second water pump 202. At this time, the second water pump 202 can stop operating. It is suitable for the mixing mode in which the first liquid cooling circuit 100 and the second liquid cooling circuit 200 are interconnected through the first valve assembly 700.

[0058] In mixed-flow mode, by bypassing and shutting down the second pump 202, the risk of flow competition and energy loss caused by head mismatch when the first pump 103 and the second pump 202 operate simultaneously can be reduced. This achieves unified power drive for both loops, thereby simplifying the control strategy and reducing system energy consumption. Simultaneously, this bypass structure provides a backup path in case of second pump 202 failure. When second pump 202 fails, the faulty pump can be isolated by closing the fifth valve 204 and opening the fourth valve 203, allowing the system to still operate in degraded mode, such as switching to mixed-flow mode driven by the first pump 103, thus improving the system's fault tolerance and reliability.

[0059] Please see Figure 9In some embodiments, the first liquid cooling circuit 100 includes a first sub-circuit 110 and a second sub-circuit 120, both of which are connected to the first valve assembly 700. The first sub-circuit 110 is equipped with a battery module 101 and a heating element 102; the second sub-circuit 120 is equipped with a first water pump 103; and the second liquid cooling circuit 200 is equipped with a power module 201 and a second water pump 202. Through this configuration, the first valve assembly 700 can selectively control the connection between the first sub-circuit 110, the second sub-circuit 120, and the first liquid cooling channel 510 of the second heat exchanger 500. Specifically, when heat dissipation is needed for the battery module 101, the first valve assembly 700 can connect the first sub-circuit 110 and the second sub-circuit 120. The first water pump 103 drives the coolant to flow through the second sub-circuit 120, the first sub-circuit 110 (i.e., the battery module 101), and the first valve assembly 700 to the first liquid-cooled flow channel 510 of the second heat exchanger 500 for heat dissipation. When heating is needed for the battery module 101, the heating element 102 is activated. The first water pump 103 drives the coolant to flow through the heating element 102, absorb heat, and then flow into the battery module 101. In low-temperature environments, the first valve assembly 700 can also connect the first sub-circuit 110 to the second liquid-cooled circuit 200, allowing the coolant that has absorbed heat from the power module 201 to also flow into the first sub-circuit 110. This utilizes the waste heat from the power module 201 to heat the battery, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the heating element 102. Furthermore, through the first valve assembly 700, the first sub-circuit 110 and the second sub-circuit 120 can also be disconnected from each other, allowing the first water pump 103 to operate independently or not participate in the battery circuit circulation, thus achieving on-demand power configuration. This achieves a high degree of integration between the battery heat dissipation circuit and the heating function, supports waste heat recovery from the power module 201, and allows the two liquid cooling circuits to flexibly switch between coupled and decoupled states, improving system energy efficiency and operational adaptability.

[0060] Please see Figure 9As shown, in some embodiments, the refrigerant circuit 300 includes a third sub-circuit 330 and a fourth sub-circuit 340, both of which are connected to the second valve assembly 800. The third sub-circuit 330 includes a first heat exchanger 400 and an expansion valve 302; the fourth sub-circuit 340 includes a compressor 301. Through this configuration, the second valve assembly 800 can selectively control the connection between the third sub-circuit 330 and the fourth sub-circuit 340. In compression refrigeration mode, the second valve assembly 800 connects the third sub-circuit 330 and the fourth sub-circuit 340, so that the compressor 301, the first heat exchanger 400, and the expansion valve 302 are connected in series to form a complete compression refrigeration cycle. In the event of compressor 301 failure or when compression refrigeration is not required, the second valve assembly 800 can disconnect the fourth sub-circuit 340 from the third sub-circuit 330, isolating the compressor 301 from the main circuit. At this time, the system can switch to natural cooling mode (e.g., when used with a refrigerant pump 303), allowing for compressor 301 maintenance and replacement. By setting compressor 301 separately in the fourth sub-circuit 340, on-demand access and online isolation of compressor 301 are achieved, improving the flexibility of system mode switching, fault tolerance and maintainability.

[0061] Please see Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the thermal management system includes a refrigerant-side module 20 and a water-side module 10. The refrigerant-side module 20 integrates an expansion valve 302, a first heat exchanger 400, and a second valve assembly 800, combining the refrigerant-side expansion valve 302, plate heat exchanger, and refrigerant valve group into a single unit. The water-side module 10 integrates a first valve assembly 700, a heating element 102, a first water pump 103, and a second water pump 202, combining the water-side control valve group, heater, and circulation pump into a single unit.

[0062] During on-site installation, only the water-side module 10 needs to be connected to the water pipes of the battery module 101, power module 201, and external heat exchanger assembly 30, and the refrigerant-side module 20 needs to be connected to the refrigerant pipes of the compressor 301 and external heat exchanger assembly 30. With this setup, the internal piping connections of the modules are completed in the factory, resulting in fewer welding points, lower leakage risk, and significantly reduced on-site installation workload. Each module can undergo independent pressure resistance, airtightness, and functional tests before leaving the factory, facilitating quality control. When a component within a module fails, the entire module can be replaced, quickly restoring system operation and reducing on-site maintenance difficulty and downtime. The compact modular structure reduces connecting pipes and joints, which helps to reduce system size and weight, and improve the energy density of the energy storage system.

[0063] Please see Figure 10As shown, in some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a heat exchanger assembly 30, a refrigerant-side pipe assembly 40, and a water-side pipe assembly 50. The heat exchanger assembly 30 includes at least one second heat exchanger element 500 and at least one third heat exchanger element 600. There are multiple refrigerant-side modules 20 and multiple water-side modules 10. Multiple refrigerant-side modules 20 are connected in parallel to the refrigerant-side pipe assembly 40. A first refrigerant flow channel 520 of at least one second heat exchanger element 500 is connected to the refrigerant-side pipe assembly 40, and a second refrigerant flow channel 610 of at least one third heat exchanger element 600 is connected to the refrigerant-side pipe assembly 40. Multiple water-side modules 10 are connected in parallel to the water-side pipe assembly 50. A first liquid cooling flow channel 510 of at least one second heat exchanger element 500 is connected to the water-side pipe assembly 50, and a second liquid cooling flow channel 630 of at least one third heat exchanger element 600 is connected to the water-side pipe assembly 50.

[0064] The water-side pipe assembly 50 is used to achieve high-temperature / low-temperature coolant circulation. The high-temperature coolant is cooled by heat exchange in the heat exchanger assembly 30 to form a low-temperature coolant. The low-temperature coolant dissipates heat to the battery module 101 in the first liquid cooling circuit 100 and to the power module 201 in the second liquid cooling circuit 200. The refrigerant-side pipe assembly 40 is used to achieve high-temperature / low-temperature refrigerant circulation. The high-temperature gaseous refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 301 and condensed and cooled in the heat exchanger assembly 30, exchanging heat with the coolant.

[0065] It should be understood that when there are multiple second heat exchangers 500 in the heat exchanger assembly 30, the first refrigerant channels 520 of the multiple second heat exchangers 500 can be connected in series or in parallel. Similarly, the first liquid cooling channels 510 of the multiple second heat exchangers 500 can be connected in series or in parallel. Likewise, when there are multiple third heat exchangers 600 in the heat exchanger assembly 30, the second refrigerant channels 610 of the multiple third heat exchangers 600 can be connected in series or in parallel. The second liquid cooling channels 630 of the multiple third heat exchangers 600 can be connected in series or in parallel.

[0066] Please see Figure 10As shown, in some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a fixing member 60, with the refrigerant-side module 20 disposed on one side of the fixing member 60 and the water-side module 10 disposed on the side of the fixing member 60 opposite to the refrigerant-side module 20; the refrigerant circuit 300 includes a compressor 301, which is fixed to the fixing member 60. Through this configuration, the fixing member 60 serves as a structural substrate, integrating the refrigerant-side module 20, the water-side module 10, and the compressor 301 into a single pre-assembled unit. The refrigerant-side module 20 and the water-side module 10 are located on opposite sides of the fixing member 60, achieving a three-dimensional spatial layout. Compared to placing all components side-by-side on the same side, this significantly reduces the system's planar projection area, which is beneficial for improving the energy density of the energy storage system. Simultaneously, the connecting pipes between the refrigerant-side module 20 and the water-side module 10 can pass through the fixing member 60 via the shortest path, reducing pipe length and the number of joints, thus lowering flow resistance and leakage risk.

[0067] In some embodiments, the compressor 301 is fixed to the fixture 60, which utilizes the rigidity and mass of the fixture 60 for vibration reduction and facilitates factory pre-installation and rapid on-site deployment. In some embodiments, the compressor 301 can also be integrated into the refrigerant-side module 20, further improving the structural integration, installation convenience, and operational reliability of the thermal management system while ensuring the integrity of system functions.

[0068] Please see Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the heat exchanger assembly 30 includes at least one fourth heat exchanger element 900, which is connected to the refrigerant-side pipe assembly 40. The fourth heat exchanger element 900 is a two-channel heat exchanger, with one channel being a refrigerant channel and the other being an air channel, wherein the refrigerant channel is in communication with the refrigerant-side pipe assembly 40.

[0069] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0070] The embodiments, implementation methods, and related technical features of this application can be combined and substituted for each other without conflict.

[0071] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application in any way. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of this application without departing from the scope of the technical solution of this application shall still fall within the scope of the technical solution of this application.

Claims

1. A thermal management system, characterized in that, include: First liquid cooling circuit (100); Second liquid cooling circuit (200); Refrigerant circuit (300); The first heat exchanger (400) has a first heat exchange channel (410) and a second heat exchange channel (420) that exchange heat with each other. The first heat exchange channel (410) is connected in series with the first liquid cooling circuit (100), and the second heat exchange channel (420) is connected in series with the refrigerant circuit (300). The second heat exchanger (500) includes a first liquid cooling channel (510), a first refrigerant channel (520), and a first heat exchange section (530). The first heat exchange section (530) is used to exchange heat between the external medium and the medium in the first liquid cooling channel (510) and the first refrigerant channel (520). The third heat exchanger (600) includes a second refrigerant channel (610), a second heat exchange section (620), and a second liquid cooling channel (630). The second heat exchange section (620) is used to exchange heat between the external medium and the medium in the second refrigerant channel (610) and the second liquid cooling channel (630). The second liquid cooling channel (630) is connected in series with the second liquid cooling circuit (200). The first valve assembly (700) is connected to the first liquid cooling circuit (100), the second liquid cooling circuit (200) and the first liquid cooling channel (510) respectively, and is used to selectively control the connection relationship between the three. The second valve assembly (800) is connected to the first refrigerant channel (520), the second refrigerant channel (610) and the refrigerant circuit (300) respectively, and is used to selectively control the connection relationship between the three.

2. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second liquid cooling channel (630) is connected to the first valve assembly (700).

3. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerant circuit (300) includes a compressor (301) and an expansion valve (302). The thermal management system also includes: A first bypass passage (310) is connected at one end to the inlet end of the compressor (301) and at the other end to the outlet end of the compressor (301). The second bypass passage (320) has one end connected to the inlet end of the expansion valve (302) and the other end connected to the outlet end of the expansion valve (302). A fluorine pump (303) is disposed in the first bypass passage (310) or the second bypass passage (320).

4. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first liquid cooling circuit (100) is equipped with a first water pump (103), and the second liquid cooling circuit (200) is equipped with a second water pump (202). The thermal management system also includes: The third bypass passage (210) has one end connected to the inlet end of the second water pump (202) and the other end connected to the outlet end of the second water pump (202).

5. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first liquid cooling circuit (100) includes a first sub-circuit (110) and a second sub-circuit (120), both of which are connected to the first valve assembly (700); The first sub-circuit (110) is provided with a battery module (101) and a heating element (102). The second sub-circuit (120) is equipped with a first water pump (103); The second liquid cooling circuit (200) is equipped with a power module (201) and a second water pump (202).

6. The thermal management system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The refrigerant circuit (300) includes a third sub-circuit (330) and a fourth sub-circuit (340), both of which are connected to the second valve assembly (800). The third sub-loop (330) includes a first heat exchanger (400) and an expansion valve (302). The fourth sub-circuit (340) includes a compressor (301).

7. The thermal management system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The thermal management system includes: Fluorine-side module (20), which integrates the expansion valve (302), the first heat exchanger (400) and the second valve assembly (800); Water-side module (10), which integrates the first valve assembly (700), the heating element (102), the first water pump (103) and the second water pump (202).

8. The thermal management system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thermal management system further includes a heat exchanger assembly (30), a fluorine-side pipe assembly (40), and a water-side pipe assembly (50). The heat exchanger assembly (30) includes at least one second heat exchanger (500) and at least one third heat exchanger (600). The number of the fluorine-side module (20) and the water-side module (10) are both multiple; Multiple fluorine-side modules (20) are connected in parallel to the fluorine-side pipe assembly (40), the first refrigerant flow channel (520) of at least one second heat exchanger (500) is connected to the fluorine-side pipe assembly (40), and the second refrigerant flow channel (610) of at least one third heat exchanger (600) is connected to the fluorine-side pipe assembly (40). Multiple water-side modules (10) are connected in parallel to the water-side pipe assembly (50), the first liquid cooling channel (510) of at least one second heat exchanger (500) is connected to the water-side pipe assembly (50), and the second liquid cooling channel (630) of at least one third heat exchanger (600) is connected to the water-side pipe assembly (50).

9. The thermal management system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heat exchanger assembly (30) includes at least one fourth heat exchanger (900), and at least one of the fourth heat exchangers (900) is connected to the fluorine side tube assembly (40).

10. The thermal management system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thermal management system further includes a fixing component (60), the fluorine-side module (20) is disposed on one side of the fixing component (60), and the water-side module (10) is disposed on the side of the fixing component (60) opposite to the fluorine-side module (20).

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