Liquid cooling system and battery pack

Abstract

The application relates to the battery technical field and discloses a liquid cooling system and a battery pack, which comprise multiple groups of liquid cooling modules and inlet and outlet liquid pipeline assemblies. Each group of liquid cooling modules comprises a first liquid cooling assembly and a pair of second liquid cooling assemblies arranged on the two sides of the first liquid cooling assembly. Each battery module is independently configured with a set of liquid cooling modules. The cooling liquid is respectively introduced into the branch liquid inlets of the first liquid cooling assemblies after being shunted through the inlet liquid pipeline assemblies, and is then shunted to the second liquid cooling assemblies on the two sides of the battery modules, so that the heat exchange of the single battery module is simultaneously performed. The cooling liquid after the heat exchange flows out of each liquid cooling module and is converged to the outlet liquid pipeline assembly, and the whole circulation process is completed. In the scheme, all the liquid cooling modules can synchronously obtain the cooling liquid, and the uniform distribution of the cooling liquid flow in each branch is ensured. The second liquid cooling assemblies are arranged on the two sides of the single battery module to synchronously dissipate heat, the heat exchange working conditions of the left and right sides of the module are consistent, the problem of the heat absorption imbalance of the two sides caused by the fact that one cold plate considers two groups of modules is effectively eliminated, and the temperature uniformity of the whole battery pack is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, specifically to a liquid cooling system and a battery pack. Background Technology

[0002] Battery packs are core components of energy storage systems such as grid peak shaving and high-power fast-charging energy storage stations, and are typically composed of multiple battery modules. Battery packs continuously generate a large amount of heat during charging and discharging. To ensure the lifespan of the battery pack, cooling devices are needed to dissipate heat from each battery module, with liquid cooling being a common method currently available.

[0003] Existing battery packs employ a side-mounted liquid cooling structure, with multiple battery modules arranged inside. Liquid cooling plates are sandwiched between the opposite sidewalls of adjacent battery modules, allowing a single liquid cooling plate to simultaneously cool both the left and right modules. All liquid cooling plates are connected in parallel via fluid pipelines, forming a complete cooling circulation loop. However, with both sides of the liquid cooling plate simultaneously attached to the left and right modules, differences in charge / discharge rates and heat generation power between the two modules lead to temperature deviations on the left and right sides of the liquid cooling plate. This increases the temperature difference between adjacent modules, resulting in poor overall temperature uniformity of the battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a liquid cooling system and a battery pack to solve or improve the problem in the related technology where a single liquid cooling plate simultaneously cools the modules on both sides of the battery pack, resulting in a temperature deviation between the left and right sides of the liquid cooling plate, an increased temperature difference between adjacent modules, and poor overall temperature uniformity of the battery pack.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a liquid cooling system, comprising: Multiple sets of liquid cooling modules are used to dissipate heat from multiple sets of battery modules. Each set of liquid cooling modules includes a first liquid cooling component extending along a first direction and a pair of second liquid cooling components disposed on opposite sides of the first liquid cooling component and extending along a second direction. The first liquid cooling component includes a branch liquid inlet and a branch liquid outlet. The liquid inlet ends of the pair of second liquid cooling components are all connected to the branch liquid inlet, and the liquid outlet ends of the pair of second liquid cooling components are all connected to the branch liquid outlet. The first liquid cooling component and the pair of second liquid cooling components enclose a accommodating space for accommodating a single set of battery modules. The liquid inlet pipeline assembly is connected to each of the branch liquid inlets; The liquid outlet pipeline assembly is connected to each of the aforementioned branch liquid outlets.

[0006] In one optional implementation, each of the first liquid cooling components is disposed at the same end of the plurality of battery modules; And / or, the inlet pipeline assembly and the outlet pipeline assembly are arranged sequentially along a third direction; And / or, at the junction of two adjacent sets of the liquid cooling modules along the second direction, there is a gap between the opposing sidewalls of two adjacent second liquid cooling components.

[0007] In one alternative implementation, it further includes: The main inlet is provided with a first inlet pipe and a plurality of first multi-port connectors. Each first multi-port connector is correspondingly provided with and connected to each of the branch inlets. The first inlet pipe is connected between the main inlet and the first multi-port connector at the beginning. Adjacent first multi-port connectors are connected by a second inlet pipe extending along the first direction. And / or a main outlet, the outlet pipeline assembly includes a first outlet pipeline and a plurality of second multi-port connectors, each of the second multi-port connectors being correspondingly provided and connected to each of the branch outlets, the first outlet pipeline being connected between the main outlet and the end second multi-port connector, and adjacent two second multi-port connectors being connected by a second outlet pipeline extending along the first direction.

[0008] In one alternative implementation, the gap ranges from 4 mm to 10 mm.

[0009] In one optional implementation, the projections of the first liquid inlet line and each of the second liquid inlet lines in the third direction are on the same straight line. And / or, the projections of the first liquid outlet line and each of the second liquid outlet lines in the third direction are on the same straight line.

[0010] In one optional embodiment, each of the second inlet pipes and / or each of the second outlet pipes is a corrugated pipe. And / or, the liquid cooling system further includes a plurality of first limiting members corresponding to each of the second liquid inlet pipes, the first limiting members being provided with a first limiting groove adapted to the second liquid inlet pipe, and the second liquid inlet pipe being snapped into the first limiting groove; And / or, the liquid cooling system further includes a plurality of second limiting members corresponding to each of the second liquid outlet pipes, the second limiting members being provided with a second limiting groove adapted to the second liquid outlet pipe, and the second liquid outlet pipe being snapped into the second limiting groove.

[0011] In one alternative embodiment, the first multi-port connector is connected to the branch inlet via a quick-connect fitting; And / or, the second multi-port connector is connected to the branch outlet via a quick-connect fitting; And / or, the main inlet is connected to the first inlet pipe via a quick-connect fitting; And / or, the main outlet is connected to the first outlet pipeline via a quick-connect fitting.

[0012] In one optional embodiment, the main liquid inlet and the main liquid outlet are respectively disposed at both ends of the plurality of battery modules along the first direction; And / or, the inlet pipeline assembly is provided with a first liquid collection guide groove for collecting leaked coolant at the docking position with each of the branch inlets; And / or, the outlet pipeline assembly is provided with a second liquid collection guide groove at the docking position with each of the branch outlets for collecting leaked coolant.

[0013] In one optional embodiment, the first liquid cooling assembly includes a first heat-conducting plate extending along the first direction and a first liquid cooling channel and a second liquid cooling channel disposed on the side of the first heat-conducting plate away from the battery module. The first liquid cooling channel is provided with the branch inlet, and both ends of the first liquid cooling channel are respectively connected to the inlet ends of a pair of second liquid cooling assemblies. The second liquid cooling channel is provided with the branch outlet, and both ends of the second liquid cooling channel are respectively connected to the outlet ends of a pair of second liquid cooling assemblies. The second liquid cooling assembly includes a second heat-conducting plate extending along the second direction and a third liquid cooling channel disposed on the side of the second heat-conducting plate away from the battery module. The inlet and outlet of the third liquid cooling channel are respectively connected to the first liquid cooling channel and the second liquid cooling channel. The second heat-conducting plates of a pair of second liquid cooling assemblies are respectively connected to opposite sides of the first heat-conducting plate.

[0014] In one optional embodiment, the third liquid cooling channel is a serpentine channel, and both the inlet and outlet ends of the third liquid cooling channel are located at the end of the second heat-conducting plate facing the first heat-conducting plate.

[0015] In one optional embodiment, in the third direction, the inlet end of the third liquid cooling channel is located in the middle of the second heat-conducting plate, and the outlet end of the third liquid cooling channel is located above the inlet end of the third liquid cooling channel. And / or, the branch inlet and the branch outlet are disposed in the middle of the first heat-conducting plate along the first direction.

[0016] In one optional embodiment, an arc-shaped transition section is provided between the second heat-conducting plate and the first heat-conducting plate; And / or, the second liquid cooling assembly further includes an exhaust pipe disposed on the second heat-conducting plate and communicating with the interior of the third liquid cooling channel.

[0017] Secondly, this application also provides a battery pack including a liquid cooling system as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0018] The liquid cooling system provided in this application features an independent liquid cooling module for each battery module. After being diverted through the inlet pipe assembly, the coolant flows into the branch inlets of each of the first liquid cooling components, and then to the second liquid cooling components on both sides of the module, simultaneously exchanging heat with each battery module. After heat exchange, the coolant flows out from each liquid cooling module and converges back into the outlet pipe assembly, completing the entire cycle. In this solution, all liquid cooling modules can simultaneously receive coolant, ensuring uniform coolant flow distribution across all branches. Furthermore, the second liquid cooling components on both sides of each battery module provide simultaneous heat dissipation, ensuring consistent heat exchange conditions on both sides of the module. This results in excellent temperature difference control within each module, effectively eliminating the heat imbalance caused by a single cold plate serving two modules, significantly improving the overall temperature uniformity of the battery pack, ensuring cell consistency, and extending the overall cycle life of the battery pack. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or 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 this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the liquid cooling system according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a second schematic diagram of the liquid cooling system according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of the inlet pipeline assembly and the outlet pipeline assembly according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of multiple liquid cooling modules according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of a single liquid cooling module according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of a single liquid cooling module according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the first / second limiting member in an embodiment of this application.

[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1. Liquid cooling module; 101. First liquid cooling component; 1011. Branch liquid inlet; 1012. Branch liquid outlet; 1013. First heat conduction plate; 1014. First liquid cooling channel; 1015. Second liquid cooling channel; 102. Second liquid cooling component; 1021. Second heat conduction plate; 1022. Third liquid cooling channel; 103. Arc-shaped transition section; 2. Battery module; 3. Liquid inlet pipeline assembly; 301. First 302. Liquid inlet pipe; 303. First multi-way connector; 4. Liquid outlet pipe assembly; 401. First liquid outlet pipe; 402. Second multi-way connector; 403. Second liquid outlet pipe; 5. Main liquid inlet; 6. Main liquid outlet; 7. First limiting component; 701. First limiting groove; 8. Second limiting component; 801. Second limiting groove; 9. Quick-connect connector; 901. Male connector; 902. Female connector. Detailed Implementation

[0022] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, 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 some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0023] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0024] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection, a direct connection, or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0025] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0026] The following is combined Figures 1 to 7 This application describes a liquid cooling system and battery pack according to embodiments of the present application.

[0027] According to embodiments of this application, in a first aspect, a liquid cooling system is provided, which can be applied to battery packs of energy storage systems such as grid peak shaving and high-power fast-charging energy storage stations. The liquid cooling system includes multiple sets of liquid cooling modules 1, an inlet pipe assembly 3, and an outlet pipe assembly 4. Specifically, as... Figure 1 As shown, multiple liquid cooling modules 1 are used to dissipate heat from multiple battery modules 2. That is, the multiple liquid cooling modules 1 are assembled one-to-one with the outer side of the multiple battery modules 2, each independently dissipating heat from each battery module 2. For example, as... Figure 1 As shown, the four liquid cooling modules 1 independently dissipate heat from the four battery modules 2. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the battery module 2 includes multiple battery cells arranged in sequence. Each battery cell has a first direction X, a second direction Y, and a third direction Z that are perpendicular to each other. The first direction X is the length direction of the battery cell, the second direction Y is the width direction of the battery cell, and the third direction Z is the height direction of the battery cell.

[0028] like Figure 2 As shown, each liquid-cooled module 1 includes a first liquid-cooling component 101 extending along a first direction X, and a pair of second liquid-cooling components 102 disposed on opposite sides of the first liquid-cooling component 101 and extending along a second direction Y. The first liquid-cooling component 101 and the pair of second liquid-cooling components 102 together enclose a space for accommodating a single battery module 2. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first liquid cooling component 101 includes a branch liquid inlet 1011 and a branch liquid outlet 1012. The liquid inlet ends of a pair of second liquid cooling components 102 are all connected to the branch liquid inlet 1011, and the liquid outlet ends of a pair of second liquid cooling components 102 are all connected to the branch liquid outlet 1012.

[0029] In this embodiment, for each liquid-cooled module 1, a main branch flow channel is opened inside the first liquid-cooling component 101, with a branch inlet 1011 and a branch outlet 1012. The second liquid-cooling components 102 on both sides are arranged parallel and symmetrically. The inlet ends of both second liquid-cooling components 102 are simultaneously connected to the branch inlet 1011 of the first liquid-cooling component 101, and the outlet ends are simultaneously connected to the branch outlet 1012 of the first liquid-cooling component 101. The first liquid-cooling component 101 and the pair of second liquid-cooling components 102 form a U-shaped structure, creating an accommodating space for a single battery module 2. The left and right sidewalls of the battery module 2 are tightly fitted to the heat exchange walls of the second liquid-cooling components 102 on both sides, achieving synchronous heat exchange on both sides. Optionally, the second liquid-cooling components 102 are bonded to the sidewalls of the battery module 2 by potting thermally conductive gel or thermally conductive structural adhesive.

[0030] like Figure 2As shown, each branch inlet 1011 is connected to the inlet pipe assembly 3, and each branch outlet 1012 is connected to the outlet pipe assembly 4. It can be understood that the inlet pipe assembly 3 is directly connected to all branch inlets 1011. After the coolant is delivered from the external coolant system to the inlet pipe assembly 3, it is simultaneously and parallelly distributed to the branch inlets of each group of liquid-cooled modules 1. The coolant from each group of liquid-cooled modules 1, after heat exchange and temperature rise, flows through the branch outlets 1012 into the outlet pipe assembly 4 and is uniformly delivered to the external coolant system, forming a complete cooling circulation loop. In this embodiment, multiple groups of liquid-cooled modules 1 are arranged in parallel, and the inlet pressure and flow rate of each group of liquid-cooled modules 1 are independent. The coolant flow rate distributed to each group of liquid-cooled modules 1 is uniform and stable, and there is no problem of progressively increasing flow resistance in traditional series liquid-cooled plates. The second liquid cooling component 102 is synchronously arranged on both sides of the single battery module 2. Low-temperature coolant is simultaneously introduced into both sides of the module for simultaneous heat absorption and exchange. Compared with the traditional solution of a single cold plate sandwiched between two modules, this completely eliminates the problem of heat imbalance on both sides caused by a single cold plate serving two modules. Even if there are differences in charge and discharge rates and heat generation power among different modules in the battery pack, the cooling circuits of each module are independently branched and do not interfere with each other. There will be no phenomenon of adjacent modules competing for heat dissipation capacity or amplifying temperature differences. The heat exchange conditions on both sides of the battery module 2 are consistent, the temperature difference control of the cells in a single module is excellent, and the temperature of all modules in the entire pack tends to be consistent. Under the conditions of high charge and discharge rates and short-term high power heating, the heat accumulated in the cells can be quickly dissipated, suppressing the peak temperature rise of the battery, and adapting to the requirements of grid peak shaving and high-power charge and discharge high-heat conditions of fast-charging energy storage stations. This structure simultaneously achieves uniform flow between modules and dual temperature uniformity on both sides of each module. Under long-term operation, the consistency of all modules remains good, effectively extending the overall cycle life of the battery pack and improving the long-term operational safety performance of the energy storage system. In addition, each battery module 2 is equipped with an independent liquid-cooled module 1, realizing an independent modular liquid-cooling structure, which facilitates assembly and maintenance.

[0031] In this configuration, each battery module 2 is independently equipped with a liquid cooling module 1. The coolant, after being diverted by the inlet pipe assembly 3, flows into the branch inlets 1011 of each of the first liquid cooling components 101, and then to the second liquid cooling components 102 on both sides of the module, simultaneously exchanging heat with each battery module 2. After heat exchange, the coolant flows out from each liquid cooling module 1 and converges into the outlet pipe assembly 4, completing the entire cycle. In this scheme, all liquid cooling modules 1 can simultaneously obtain coolant, ensuring uniform coolant flow distribution across all branches. Simultaneously, each battery module 2 is equipped with a second liquid cooling component 102 for simultaneous heat dissipation, ensuring consistent heat exchange conditions on both sides of the module. This results in excellent cell temperature difference control within a single module, effectively eliminating the heat absorption imbalance caused by a single cold plate serving two modules, significantly improving the overall temperature uniformity of the battery pack, ensuring cell consistency, and extending the overall cycle life of the battery pack.

[0032] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, each of the first liquid cooling components 101 is disposed at the same end of multiple battery modules 2. It can be understood that all the first liquid cooling components 101 are aligned along the first direction X and are on the same plane, with all branch inlets 1011 and branch outlets 1012 concentrated at the same end of the battery module 2. Furthermore, the inlet pipe assembly 3 and outlet pipe assembly 4 are arranged on the outer side of this end, and the coolant is concentratedly distributed from this end to each group of liquid cooling modules 1, and after heat exchange, it flows out at the same end.

[0033] With this configuration, all liquid inlet and outlet interfaces are located at the same end of battery module 2, and the pipelines are centrally arranged. While ensuring uniform flow and heat exchange consistency in each liquid-cooled module 1, the length of pipelines with bends and cross-regional runs within the pack is significantly reduced. A large number of cross-module connection elbows and adapters are eliminated, resulting in a simpler pipeline structure. This reduces the total flow resistance and sealing risk of the pipelines, improves the thermal management performance, assembly efficiency, and overall reliability of the battery pack, and meets the requirements for highly integrated, highly safe, and long-life energy storage battery packs.

[0034] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the inlet pipe assembly 3 and the outlet pipe assembly 4 are arranged sequentially along the third direction Z. Optionally, the inlet pipe assembly 3 is located on the lower layer, and the outlet pipe assembly 4 is located on the upper layer. The inlet pipe assembly 3 and the outlet pipe assembly 4 are arranged vertically along the third direction Z, parallel to each other and isolated vertically, without interfering with each other. A clearance is reserved between the upper and lower pipes for assembly, sealing, and maintenance. This arrangement results in a more regular pipe layout, significantly reducing the space occupied by the battery pack pipes, improving the utilization rate of the internal space, and increasing the volumetric efficiency of the energy storage system.

[0035] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, at the junction of two adjacent sets of liquid cooling modules 1 along the second direction Y, there is a gap between the opposing sidewalls of two adjacent second liquid cooling components 102. In optional embodiments, the gap ranges from 4mm to 10mm. For example, the gap can be 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 9mm, or 10mm, or any value between two values. This is only an example and is not specifically limited. It can be understood that, as Figure 2 As shown, taking the two leftmost liquid cooling modules 1 as an example, along the second direction Y, the second liquid cooling components 102 of the two adjacent liquid cooling modules 1 are arranged facing each other, and an isolation gap is reserved between their opposite sidewalls. The size of this gap is controlled in the range of 4mm-10mm.

[0036] This configuration completely separates adjacent liquid-cooled modules 1, preventing them from touching or contacting each other. This cuts off the heat transfer path between adjacent liquid-cooled components, ensuring that the coolant temperatures within their respective channels do not interfere with each other. The cooling temperature fields of each module are completely independent, further reducing the temperature difference between modules in the entire battery pack and improving overall temperature uniformity. Simultaneously, it provides buffer space for assembly and deformation, preventing hard contact, squeezing, and collisions between adjacent second liquid-cooled components 102. If the gap is less than 4mm, it will result in insufficient installation and operation space, limited buffer space, and thermal expansion and assembly errors that could easily cause cold plate squeezing and collisions. If the gap is greater than 10mm, the spacing between modules along the first direction X increases, reducing the number of cells that can be arranged within the same battery pack volume, significantly lowering the overall energy density of the battery pack.

[0037] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the battery pack also includes a main liquid inlet 5, and the liquid inlet pipeline assembly 3 includes a first liquid inlet pipeline 301 and multiple first multi-way connectors 302. Each first multi-way connector 302 is correspondingly provided and connected to each branch liquid inlet 1011. The first liquid inlet pipeline 301 is connected between the main liquid inlet 5 and the first multi-way connector 302 at the beginning, and adjacent first multi-way connectors 302 are connected by a second liquid inlet pipeline 303 extending along the first direction X. Optionally, the first multi-way connector 302 can be a tee connector, and the first multi-way connector 302 at the end, i.e., the rightmost end, can be an L-shaped two-way connector. The main liquid inlet 5 can be set on the bottom plate of the lower casing of the battery pack, and the first liquid inlet pipeline 301 can be an arc-shaped pipe to facilitate docking with the main liquid inlet 5 and the first multi-way connector 302 at the beginning.

[0038] In this embodiment, multiple first multi-port connectors 302 are arranged side-by-side evenly along the first direction X. Each first multi-port connector 302 is connected to a branch inlet 1011 of a group of liquid-cooled modules 1, enabling independent flow of coolant to each group of liquid-cooled modules 1. One end of the first inlet pipe 301 is connected to the main inlet 5 of the battery pack, and the other end is connected to the first multi-port connector 302 at the beginning. Adjacent first multi-port connectors 302 are connected in series by a second inlet pipe 303 extending along the first direction X, forming a continuous main inlet channel. After the external low-temperature coolant enters the first inlet pipe 301 through the main inlet 5, it flows sequentially through each first multi-port connector 302 along the main inlet channel, and then is sent to each group of liquid-cooled modules 1 through the corresponding branch inlet 1011 to complete heat exchange.

[0039] like Figure 2As shown, the battery pack also includes a main liquid outlet 6, and the liquid outlet pipeline assembly 4 includes a first liquid outlet pipeline 401 and multiple second multi-way connectors 402. Each second multi-way connector 402 is correspondingly arranged and connected to each branch liquid outlet 1012. The first liquid outlet pipeline 401 connects the main liquid outlet 6 and the end second multi-way connector 402, and adjacent two second multi-way connectors 402 are connected by a second liquid outlet pipeline 403 extending along the first direction X. Optionally, the second multi-way connector 402 can be a tee connector, and the second multi-way connector 402 located at the first end, i.e., the leftmost end, can be an L-shaped two-way connector. The main liquid outlet 6 can be located on the bottom plate of the lower casing of the battery pack, and the first liquid outlet pipeline 401 can be an arc-shaped pipe to facilitate docking with the main liquid outlet 6 and the end second multi-way connector 402.

[0040] In this embodiment, multiple second multi-port connectors 402 are arranged side-by-side evenly along the first direction X. Each second multi-port connector 402 is sealed to the branch outlet 1012 of the corresponding liquid-cooled module 1 to collect the coolant after heat exchange and heating of a single module. One end of the first outlet pipe 401 is connected to the main outlet 6 of the battery pack, and the other end is connected to the end second multi-port connector 402. Adjacent second multi-port connectors 402 are sequentially connected by second outlet pipes 403 extending along the first direction X to form a continuous confluence channel. The high-temperature coolant after heat dissipation of each liquid-cooled module 1 flows into the corresponding second multi-port connector 402 through the branch outlet 1012, and is finally discharged from the main outlet 6 to the external coolant system through the first outlet pipe 401 along the confluence channel, forming a complete cooling cycle.

[0041] This configuration, with the pipeline extending linearly along the first direction X, utilizes multi-way connectors to achieve pipeline series connection and branch flow diversion. The pipeline layout is neat and orderly, significantly reducing flow resistance, minimizing bends and additional branch lines, greatly simplifying the pipeline structure, and reducing system power consumption. Furthermore, the pipeline structure offers excellent scalability; if the battery module capacity needs to be increased, only the second inlet / outlet liquid line needs to be extended and multi-way connectors added to accommodate the new module.

[0042] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the projections of the first liquid inlet pipe 301 and each of the second liquid inlet pipes 303 onto the third direction Z lie on the same straight line. It can be understood that when the first liquid inlet pipe 301 and all the second liquid inlet pipes 303 are projected perpendicularly onto the third direction Z, all pipe projections coincide on the same straight line.

[0043] like Figure 3 As shown, the projections of the first liquid outlet pipe 401 and each of the second liquid outlet pipes 403 onto the third direction Z lie on the same straight line. Similarly, when the first liquid outlet pipe 401 and all the second liquid outlet pipes 403 are projected perpendicularly onto the third direction Z, all pipe projections coincide on the same straight line.

[0044] This configuration, with all inlet and outlet pipes centrally arranged in the same vertical plane, results in a compact structure and well-organized internal battery pack space. It avoids excessively occupying space along the second direction (Y), improving space utilization and ultimately enhancing the battery pack's energy density. Furthermore, the neat and orderly pipe arrangement facilitates troubleshooting and reduces the difficulty of maintenance and disassembly.

[0045] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, each of the second inlet pipes 303 and / or each of the second outlet pipes 403 is a corrugated pipe. Optionally, the corrugated pipe may have integrally formed baffles inside, which are evenly arranged along the axial direction of the pipe to disturb the flow of coolant and improve heat exchange efficiency. With this configuration, the corrugated pipe has axial micro-expansion and contraction capability and radial damping capability, which can absorb assembly tolerances and thermal deformation and vibration displacement generated during battery pack operation, reduce assembly difficulty, avoid internal stress caused by hard connection, extend the service life of the pipe, and is suitable for the application scenario of long-term continuous operation of high-power energy storage battery packs.

[0046] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, the liquid cooling system also includes a plurality of first limiting members 7 corresponding to each of the second liquid inlet pipes 303. Each first limiting member 7 is provided with a first limiting groove 701 adapted to the second liquid inlet pipe 303, and the second liquid inlet pipe 303 is snapped into the first limiting groove 701. Optionally, the first limiting member 7 can be fixed to the bottom plate of the lower casing of the battery pack, and each first limiting member 7 is provided in a one-to-one correspondence with each of the second liquid inlet pipes 303.

[0047] like Figure 7 As shown, the liquid cooling system also includes a plurality of second limiting members 8 corresponding to each of the second liquid outlet pipes 403. Each second limiting member 8 has a second limiting groove 801 adapted to each of the second liquid outlet pipes 403, and the second liquid outlet pipe 403 is engaged within the second limiting groove 801. Optionally, the second limiting members 8 can be fixed to the bottom plate of the lower casing of the battery pack, with each second limiting member 8 corresponding to each of the second liquid outlet pipes 403.

[0048] This design, with the help of limiting components to axially limit and radially constrain each section of the straight inlet and outlet pipelines, can effectively suppress displacement and shaking during pipeline operation, prevent misalignment of pipeline interfaces, avoid loosening and leakage at joint sealing positions, maintain the sealing performance of each pipeline connection for a long time, and reduce the risk of coolant leakage.

[0049] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 3As shown, the first multi-port connector 302 is connected to the branch inlet 1011 via a quick-connect connector 9. And / or, the second multi-port connector 402 is connected to the branch outlet 1012 via a quick-connect connector 9. And / or, the main inlet 5 is connected to the first inlet pipe 301 via a quick-connect connector 9. And / or, the main outlet 6 is connected to the first outlet pipe 401 via a quick-connect connector 9. Optionally, in this embodiment, quick-connect connectors 9 are configured at each connection point of the pipes to achieve quick sealing connection. The first multi-port connector 302 and the corresponding branch inlet 1011 on the first liquid cooling assembly 101 are sealed and connected using quick-connect connectors 9; similarly, quick-connect connectors 9 are also installed between the second multi-port connector 402 and the branch outlet 1012 to complete fluid communication. Furthermore, quick-connect connectors 9 are also used for the connection of the main inlet 5 and the first inlet pipe 301, and the main outlet 6 and the first outlet pipe 401 of the battery pack. The quick-connect fitting 9 includes a male fitting 901 and a female fitting 902, which are connected by insertion to achieve a quick and sealed connection of the pipeline interface. The quick-connect fitting 9 has a built-in circumferential elastic locking buckle and an annular sealing ring. After the buckle is engaged, it forms an anti-loosening limit, and the sealing ring is made of elastic material resistant to high and low temperatures. It relies on elastic compression sealing and mechanical locking pressure to achieve a reliable seal at the connection port.

[0050] This setup, using quick-connect connectors with 9-pin self-locking, allows for one-click plugging after pipeline alignment to complete the sealed connection, greatly reducing battery pack pipeline assembly time. It also facilitates pre-assembly of pipeline assemblies before overall module docking, significantly improving production line assembly efficiency, enhancing disassembly and maintenance convenience, facilitating later maintenance, and shortening downtime for maintenance.

[0051] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the main inlet 5 and the main outlet 6 are respectively located at both ends of the multiple battery modules 2 along the first direction X. If the main inlet 5 and the main outlet 6 are concentrated at the same end, the far-end branch pipeline will be too long, resulting in greater flow resistance along the path and easily causing a flow difference between the first and last modules. In this embodiment, the inlet and outlet are located at the first and last ends of the module array, making the coolant flow path length more balanced, the pressure gradient distribution of the entire pipeline gentler, further reducing the flow deviation of each liquid cooling branch, and effectively improving the temperature difference between the multiple battery modules 2.

[0052] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, a first liquid collection guide groove is provided at the docking position of the inlet pipe assembly 3 and each branch inlet 1011 for collecting leaked coolant. And / or, a second liquid collection guide groove is provided at the docking position of the outlet pipe assembly 4 and each branch outlet 1012 for collecting leaked coolant. In this embodiment, the first liquid collection guide groove is arranged below the docking position of the quick-connect connector 9 of the inlet pipe assembly 3 and each branch inlet 1011 to collect the coolant leaking from the connector. Correspondingly, the second liquid collection guide groove is arranged below each docking point of the outlet pipe assembly 4 and each branch outlet 1012 to collect the liquid leaking from the outlet side connector. The first and second liquid collection guide grooves can guide the collected leaked liquid to the liquid collection chamber at the bottom of the battery pack, preventing the coolant from spreading everywhere. This prevents liquid from overflowing and corroding the battery cells and high-voltage components, effectively avoiding major safety accidents such as battery cell short circuits and insulation failures, and extending the battery pack's lifespan. Furthermore, an inclined guide slope can be installed within the liquid collection channel to guide the collected leaked liquid to the liquid collection chamber at the bottom of the battery pack.

[0053] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the first liquid cooling assembly 101 includes a first heat-conducting plate 1013 extending along a first direction X, and a first liquid cooling channel 1014 and a second liquid cooling channel 1015 disposed on the side of the first heat-conducting plate 1013 facing away from the battery module 2. The first liquid cooling channel 1014 is provided with a branch inlet 1011, and its two ends are respectively connected to the inlet ends of a pair of second liquid cooling assemblies 102. The second liquid cooling channel 1015 is provided with a branch outlet 1012, and its two ends are respectively connected to the outlet ends of a pair of second liquid cooling assemblies 102. The second liquid cooling assembly 102 includes a second heat-conducting plate 1021 extending along a second direction Y, and a third liquid cooling channel 1022 disposed on the side of the second heat-conducting plate 1021 facing away from the battery module 2. The inlet and outlet of the third liquid cooling channel 1022 are connected to the first liquid cooling channel 1014 and the second liquid cooling channel 1015, respectively, and the second heat-conducting plates 1021 of a pair of second liquid cooling components 102 are respectively connected to the opposite sides of the first heat-conducting plate 1013.

[0054] In this embodiment, the battery module 2 is a square battery, and the heat-conducting plate can be a metal plate; if it is a cylindrical battery, the heat-conducting plate can be S-shaped or serpentine to ensure the contact area between the heat-conducting plate and the module. The first heat-conducting plate 1013 and the two second heat-conducting plates 1021 on both sides form a continuous metal heat-conducting substrate, and the heat-conducting plates are bonded to the module by potting thermal conductive gel or thermal conductive structural adhesive. All flow channels are integrated on the outside of the heat-conducting plates, and the flow channel walls are attached to the heat-conducting plates as one piece. The low-temperature coolant enters the first liquid-cooled flow channel 1014 from the branch inlet 1011, and then is evenly distributed to the left and right ends, and simultaneously sent into the two third liquid-cooled flow channels 1022 on the left and right; the coolant fully exchanges heat with the side wall of the battery module 2 through the second heat-conducting plate 1021, and the cooled liquid after being heated on both sides then flows into the second liquid-cooled flow channel 1015, and is finally discharged outward from the branch outlet 1012.

[0055] With this configuration, the cooling channels are directly attached to the outer surfaces of the first heat-conducting plate 1013 and the second heat-conducting plate 1021, with the heat-conducting plates tightly attached to the sidewalls of the battery module 2. Heat generated by the battery cells can be quickly transferred to the channel walls via the metal heat-conducting plates, resulting in a short heat transfer path, extremely low interfacial thermal resistance, and higher heat dissipation efficiency. Furthermore, the cooling channels can be directly welded to the surface of the heat-conducting plates. Compared to traditional sandwich-structured liquid cooling plates, this significantly reduces the overall thickness while maintaining the same heat exchange area, minimizing the space occupied by the liquid cooling structure. This allows for the arrangement of more battery cells inside the battery pack, increasing the overall energy density. Additionally, under repeated fluctuations in coolant pressure, the cavity in traditional sandwich-structured liquid cooling plates is prone to bulging and warping, leading to partial detachment between the liquid cooling plate and the sidewalls of the battery cells, creating contact gaps. These gaps form an air insulation layer, directly causing uneven heat dissipation. In this embodiment, the flow channel is integrated on the outside of the heat-conducting plate. The heat-conducting plate is a solid substrate without hollow interlayers, which has strong pressure resistance and can be tightly attached to the side wall of the battery module 2 for a long time under the condition of alternating fluid pressure, effectively ensuring the long-term stability of heat exchange performance.

[0056] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the third liquid cooling channel 1022 is a serpentine flow channel. Both the inlet and outlet ends of the third liquid cooling channel 1022 are located at the end of the second heat-conducting plate 1021 facing the first heat-conducting plate 1013. Coolant flows into the serpentine flow channel from the inlet end, reciprocating up and down along the channel to fully exchange heat with the second heat-conducting plate 1021, and finally flows out from the outlet end and merges into the second liquid cooling channel 1015. The serpentine flow channel structures of the two sets of second liquid cooling components 102 are completely symmetrical, and the coolant flow path and velocity on both sides are consistent. This design greatly extends the coolant flow path and increases the heat exchange time, effectively absorbing the heat released from the sidewalls of the battery module 2, effectively reducing the cell temperature rise, and meeting the heat dissipation requirements of high-power continuous charging and discharging. Moreover, the serpentine flow channel reciprocates along the third direction Z to cover the entire heat exchange area of ​​the second heat-conducting plate 1021, and the coolant can cover the entire side wall height of the battery module 2 vertically. The battery module 2 can be uniformly cooled from top to bottom, effectively reducing the longitudinal temperature difference between the upper and lower positions of the cell, and the temperature field distribution is more uniform.

[0057] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 5 As shown, in the third direction Z, the inlet end of the third liquid cooling channel 1022 is located in the middle of the second heat-conducting plate 1021, and the outlet end of the third liquid cooling channel 1022 is located above the inlet end of the third liquid cooling channel 1022. In this embodiment, the third liquid cooling channel 1022 adopts a serpentine meandering channel shape, and along the third direction Z, the inlet end of the third liquid cooling channel 1022 is located in the middle region of the height direction of the second heat-conducting plate 1021. The low-temperature coolant is transported from the first liquid cooling channel 1014 to the inlet end in the vertical middle of the second heat-conducting plate 1021, flows into the third liquid cooling channel 1022, and then meanders upward and downward along the Z direction, finally flowing upward, fully flowing through the entire heat exchange plate surface of the second heat-conducting plate 1021, completing the heat exchange with the side wall of the battery module 2, and then flowing out from the high outlet end and merging into the second liquid cooling channel 1015. With this configuration, the coolant can fully cover the entire heat exchange area after entering the flow channel from the middle of the heat-conducting plate. This effectively avoids the defects caused by the coolant's own gravity, which can lead to local cavities in the upper and far-end areas of the flow channel. At the same time, it reduces the flow resistance along the cooling circuit, ensuring a more uniform distribution of coolant flow in each area of ​​the flow channel and maintaining consistent heat exchange intensity across all modules.

[0058] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 5As shown, branch inlet 1011 and branch outlet 1012 are disposed in the middle of the first heat-conducting plate 1013 along the first direction X. In this embodiment, the branch outlet 1012 and the branch inlet 1011 are arranged side by side vertically along the third direction Z, and both are disposed in the middle of the first heat-conducting plate 1013 along the first direction X. Coolant is delivered to the branch inlet 1011 and flows from the middle of the first heat-conducting plate 1013 to the corresponding third liquid cooling channels 1022 on both sides. With this arrangement, the inlet and outlet are located at the center of the first heat-conducting plate 1013, the low-temperature coolant flows in from the geometric center of the heat-conducting plate, the cold source is located at the center of the heat exchange plate surface, and the coolant diffuses symmetrically and evenly to both sides, ensuring uniform heat exchange of the second liquid cooling components 102 on both sides, eliminating local temperature differences on the left and right sides of the module, and improving the temperature consistency of the battery cells. In addition, the symmetrical design of the fluid channels ensures uniform fluid resistance on both sides, guaranteeing a balanced overall flow distribution of the liquid cooling module.

[0059] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 5 As shown, an arc-shaped transition section 103 is provided between the second heat-conducting plate 1021 and the first heat-conducting plate 1013. In this embodiment, the left and right sides of the first heat-conducting plate 1013 are smoothly connected to the second heat-conducting plates 1021 on both sides through the arc-shaped transition section 103, forming an integrated bent frame structure. The corner positions are rounded transitions, and there are no right angles or sharp corners. With this design, the rounded transition section smoothly transitions the bending moment, disperses the stress at the corner, greatly improves the structural strength of the overall frame, avoids fatigue cracks at the bending positions, and is not prone to fracture or deformation under long-term vibration and alternating hot and cold cycles.

[0060] Optionally, in some embodiments of this application, the second liquid cooling assembly 102 further includes an exhaust pipe disposed on the second heat-conducting plate 1021 and communicating with the interior of the third liquid cooling channel 1022. Optionally, an exhaust pipe is disposed on the top of the second heat-conducting plate 1021, and the exhaust pipe communicates with the inner cavity of the third liquid cooling channel 1022 to discharge air accumulated in the channel. The exhaust pipe ultimately leads the gas to the main exhaust port at the top of the battery pack. This arrangement allows for rapid discharge of air from the pipe, ensuring that the entire channel is filled with coolant and preventing air resistance from affecting the cooling effect.

[0061] According to embodiments of this application, in a second aspect, a battery pack is also provided, including the liquid cooling system as described in the various embodiments above. Optionally, this battery pack can be applied to energy storage systems such as grid peak shaving and high-power fast-charging energy storage stations. The derivation process of this beneficial effect is roughly similar to the derivation process of the beneficial effects of the liquid cooling system described above, and therefore will not be repeated here.

[0062] Although embodiments of this application 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 this application, and all such modifications and variations fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A liquid cooling system, characterized in that, include: Multiple sets of liquid cooling modules (1) are used to dissipate heat from multiple sets of battery modules (2). Each set of liquid cooling modules (1) includes a first liquid cooling component (101) extending along a first direction (X) and a pair of second liquid cooling components (102) disposed on opposite sides of the first liquid cooling component (101) and extending along a second direction (Y). The first liquid cooling component (101) includes a branch liquid inlet (1011) and a branch liquid outlet (1012). The liquid inlet ends of the pair of second liquid cooling components (102) are all connected to the branch liquid inlet (1011), and the liquid outlet ends of the pair of second liquid cooling components (102) are all connected to the branch liquid outlet (1012). The first liquid cooling component (101) and the pair of second liquid cooling components (102) enclose a accommodating space for accommodating a single set of battery modules (2). The liquid inlet pipeline assembly (3) is connected to each of the branch liquid inlets (1011); The liquid outlet pipeline assembly (4) is connected to each of the branch liquid outlets (1012).

2. The liquid cooling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the first liquid cooling components (101) is disposed at the same end of the multiple sets of battery modules (2); And / or, the inlet pipeline assembly (3) and the outlet pipeline assembly (4) are arranged sequentially along the third direction (Z); And / or, at the junction of two adjacent sets of liquid cooling modules (1) along the second direction (Y), there is a gap between the opposing sidewalls of two adjacent second liquid cooling components (102).

3. The liquid cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: The main inlet (5) and the inlet pipeline assembly (3) include a first inlet pipeline (301) and a plurality of first multi-port connectors (302). Each first multi-port connector (302) is correspondingly provided and connected to each branch inlet (1011). The first inlet pipeline (301) is connected between the main inlet (5) and the first multi-port connector (302) at the beginning. Two adjacent first multi-port connectors (302) are connected by a second inlet pipeline (303) extending along the first direction (X). And / or the main outlet (6), the outlet pipeline assembly (4) includes a first outlet pipeline (401) and a plurality of second multi-port connectors (402), each of the second multi-port connectors (402) is correspondingly provided and connected to each of the branch outlets (1012), the first outlet pipeline (401) is connected between the main outlet (6) and the end second multi-port connector (402), and two adjacent second multi-port connectors (402) are connected by a second outlet pipeline (403) extending along the first direction (X).

4. The liquid cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The gap ranges from 4 mm to 10 mm.

5. The liquid cooling system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The projections of the first liquid inlet pipe (301) and each of the second liquid inlet pipes (303) in the third direction (Z) are on the same straight line; And / or, the projections of the first liquid outlet line (401) and each of the second liquid outlet lines (403) in the third direction (Z) are on the same straight line.

6. The liquid cooling system according to claim 3, characterized in that, Each of the second inlet pipes (303) and / or each of the second outlet pipes (403) is a corrugated pipe; And / or, the liquid cooling system further includes a plurality of first limiting members (7) corresponding to each of the second liquid inlet pipes (303), the first limiting member (7) being provided with a first limiting groove (701) adapted to the second liquid inlet pipe (303), the second liquid inlet pipe (303) being snapped into the first limiting groove (701); And / or, the liquid cooling system further includes a plurality of second limiting members (8) corresponding to each of the second liquid outlet pipes (403), the second limiting members (8) being provided with a second limiting groove (801) adapted to the second liquid outlet pipe (403), and the second liquid outlet pipe (403) being snapped into the second limiting groove (801).

7. The liquid cooling system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first multi-port connector (302) is connected to the branch inlet (1011) via a quick-connect connector (9); And / or, the second multi-port connector (402) is connected to the branch outlet (1012) via a quick-connect connector (9); And / or, the main liquid inlet (5) is connected to the first liquid inlet pipe (301) via a quick-connect fitting (9); And / or, the main outlet (6) is connected to the first outlet pipeline (401) via a quick-connect fitting (9).

8. The liquid cooling system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The main liquid inlet (5) and the main liquid outlet (6) are respectively disposed at both ends of the multiple sets of battery modules (2) along the first direction (X); And / or, the inlet pipeline assembly (3) is provided with a first liquid collection guide groove for collecting leaked coolant at the docking position with each of the branch inlets (1011); And / or, the outlet pipeline assembly (4) is provided with a second liquid collection guide groove for collecting leaked coolant at the docking position with each of the branch outlets (1012).

9. The liquid cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The first liquid cooling assembly (101) includes a first heat-conducting plate (1013) extending along the first direction (X) and a first liquid cooling channel (1014) and a second liquid cooling channel (1015) disposed on the side of the first heat-conducting plate (1013) away from the battery module (2). The first liquid cooling channel (1014) is provided with the branch liquid inlet (1011), and the two ends of the first liquid cooling channel (1014) are respectively connected to the liquid inlet of a pair of second liquid cooling assemblies (102). The second liquid cooling channel (1015) is provided with the branch liquid outlet (1012), and the two ends of the second liquid cooling channel (1015) are respectively connected to the liquid outlet of a pair of second liquid cooling assemblies (102). The second liquid cooling assembly (102) includes a second heat-conducting plate (1021) extending along the second direction (Y) and a third liquid cooling channel (1022) disposed on the side of the second heat-conducting plate (1021) away from the battery module (2). The inlet and outlet of the third liquid cooling channel (1022) are respectively connected to the first liquid cooling channel (1014) and the second liquid cooling channel (1015); and the second heat-conducting plates (1021) of a pair of second liquid cooling assemblies (102) are respectively connected to the opposite sides of the first heat-conducting plate (1013).

10. The liquid cooling system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The third liquid cooling channel (1022) is a serpentine channel, and the liquid inlet and liquid outlet of the third liquid cooling channel (1022) are both located at the end of the second heat-conducting plate (1021) facing the first heat-conducting plate (1013).

11. The liquid cooling system according to claim 10, characterized in that, In the third direction (Z), the liquid inlet of the third liquid cooling channel (1022) is located in the middle of the second heat-conducting plate (1021), and the liquid outlet of the third liquid cooling channel (1022) is located above the liquid inlet of the third liquid cooling channel (1022); And / or, the branch inlet (1011) and the branch outlet (1012) are disposed in the middle of the first heat-conducting plate (1013) along the first direction (X).

12. The liquid cooling system according to claim 9, characterized in that, An arc-shaped transition section (103) is provided between the second heat-conducting plate (1021) and the first heat-conducting plate (1013). And / or, the second liquid cooling assembly (102) further includes an exhaust pipe disposed on the second heat-conducting plate (1021) and communicating with the interior of the third liquid cooling channel (1022).

13. A battery pack, characterized in that, Includes the liquid cooling system as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

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