Thermal management system, power consuming end system and charging end system

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of thermal management system, power consumption end system and charging end system, thermal management system includes: power consumption end system, power consumption end system has first cooling flow channel and charging socket;Charging end system, charging end system has second cooling flow channel and charging plug;Wherein, charging socket can be matched with charging plug to realize electrical connection, first cooling flow channel can be communicated with second cooling flow channel, so that the heat exchange medium in first cooling flow channel and the heat exchange medium in second cooling flow channel can cool charging plug and charging socket.According to the thermal management system of the embodiment of the application, the power consumption end system and the charging end system are interchanged, so that the heat exchange medium of the cooling flow channel of the two systems can cool the charging socket and the charging plug respectively or simultaneously, improve the cooling effect of the charging socket and the charging plug, avoid the probability of aging damage caused by excessive heat at the charging socket and the charging plug, and ensure the reliability of charging speed and charging performance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of thermal management technology, and more specifically, to a thermal management system, a power consumption system, and a charging system. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, with the increasing demand for fast charging of new energy vehicles, the heat generated at the connection points of vehicles and charging piles has also increased significantly. The heat at the connection points continues to accumulate, which can easily accelerate the aging and wear of the connectors, and at the same time cause a decrease in charging speed and limited charging performance. However, there is currently no way to effectively cool it, so there is room for improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide a thermal management system that can effectively cool a charging plug and a charging socket.

[0004] The present invention also proposes an electrical terminal system.

[0005] The present invention also proposes a charging terminal system.

[0006] A thermal management system according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: an electrical end system having a first cooling channel and a charging socket; and a charging end system having a second cooling channel and a charging plug; wherein the charging socket can cooperate with the charging plug to achieve electrical connection, and the first cooling channel can communicate with the second cooling channel so that the heat exchange medium in the first cooling channel and the heat exchange medium in the second cooling channel can cool the charging plug and the charging socket.

[0007] According to the thermal management system of the present invention, the power consumption system and the charging system are interconnected, so that the heat exchange medium of the cooling channels of the two systems can cool the charging socket and the charging plug separately or simultaneously, thereby improving the cooling effect on the charging socket and the charging plug, avoiding the probability of aging and damage caused by excessive heat at the charging socket and the charging plug, and ensuring the reliability of charging speed and charging performance.

[0008] In some embodiments, the charging socket has a first medium channel that communicates with the first cooling channel, and the charging plug has a second medium channel that communicates with the second cooling channel, wherein when the charging socket and the charging plug are connected, the first medium channel communicates with the second medium channel.

[0009] In some embodiments, the charging socket has a socket terminal, the charging plug has a plug terminal, the socket terminal and the plug terminal are electrically connected, the socket terminal defines a first medium flow channel, and the plug terminal defines a second medium flow channel.

[0010] In some embodiments, the heat exchange medium in the first cooling channel and the second cooling channel is an insulating medium, and the socket terminal and the plug terminal are conductive structural components.

[0011] In some embodiments, the power-consuming system includes a first medium pump and a first condenser, wherein the first medium pump drives the heat exchange medium of the first cooling channel to dissipate heat at the first condenser.

[0012] In some embodiments, the power-consuming system further includes a motor cooling channel flowing through the motor module, and the thermal management system has a motor cooling mode. In the motor cooling mode, the motor cooling channel is connected to the first cooling channel, and the first medium pump drives the heat exchange medium of the motor cooling channel to dissipate heat at the first condenser to cool the motor module.

[0013] In some embodiments, the power-consuming system further includes an electrically controlled cooling channel flowing through the electrical control module, and the thermal management system has an electrically controlled cooling mode. In the electrically controlled cooling mode, the electrically controlled cooling channel is connected to the first cooling channel, and the first medium pump drives the heat exchange medium of the electrically controlled cooling channel to dissipate heat at the first condenser to cool the electrical control module.

[0014] In some embodiments, the system further includes a first liquid storage tank disposed between the first medium pump and the first condenser for storing the heat exchange medium. In some embodiments, the charging terminal system includes a second medium pump and a second condenser, wherein the second medium pump drives the heat exchange medium in the second cooling channel to dissipate heat at the second condenser, thereby cooling the charging plug.

[0015] In some embodiments, a second liquid storage tank is further included, which is disposed between the second medium pump and the second condenser, for storing the heat exchange medium.

[0016] In some embodiments, the rated flow rate of the second medium pump is greater than the rated flow rate of the first medium pump.

[0017] In some embodiments, the charging socket has a first socket terminal and a second socket terminal, the power supply system includes a battery electrically connected between the first socket terminal and the second socket terminal, the charging plug has a first plug terminal and a second plug terminal, and the charging system includes a power source electrically connected between the first plug terminal and the second plug terminal, wherein the first socket terminal is mated with the first plug terminal, and the second socket terminal is mated with the second plug terminal to form a charging circuit.

[0018] In some embodiments, the system further includes: a first control valve located between the first medium pump and the first socket terminal, for controlling the opening and closing of the flow path between the first medium pump and the first socket terminal; and a second control valve located between the second socket terminal and the first condenser, for controlling the opening and closing of the flow path between the second socket terminal and the first condenser.

[0019] In some embodiments, the system further includes: a third cooling channel connected between the first socket terminal and the second socket terminal; and a third control valve disposed on the third cooling channel for controlling the on / off state of the third cooling channel.

[0020] In some embodiments, the device further includes a temperature detection device and a control module, wherein the temperature detection device is used to detect the temperature at the charging socket and / or the charging plug, and the control module controls the opening and closing of the first control valve, the second control valve and the third control valve according to the temperature detected by the temperature detection device.

[0021] In some embodiments, the thermal management system has a charging cooling mode, in which the third cooling channel is connected to the second cooling channel, and the second medium pump drives the heat exchange medium of the second cooling channel and the third cooling channel to dissipate heat at the second condenser to cool the charging plug and the charging socket.

[0022] In some embodiments, the thermal management system has a combined cooling mode, in which the second cooling channel is connected to the first cooling channel, and the first medium pump and the second medium pump jointly drive the heat exchange medium to flow and dissipate heat at the first condenser and the second condenser, thereby cooling the charging plug and the charging socket, wherein the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the first medium pump and the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the second medium pump are the same.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the power supply system has a first cooling channel and a charging socket, the charging socket being able to cooperate with a charging plug of the charging system to achieve electrical connection, and the first cooling channel being able to communicate with a second cooling channel of the charging system.

[0024] According to the power consumption system of the present invention, the power consumption system can be interconnected with the charging system. The heat exchange medium of the cooling channels of the two systems can cool the charging socket and the charging plug separately or simultaneously, thereby improving the cooling effect on the charging socket and the charging plug, avoiding the probability of aging and damage caused by excessive heat at the charging socket and the charging plug, and ensuring the reliability of charging speed and charging performance.

[0025] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the charging terminal system has a second cooling channel and a charging plug, the charging plug being able to cooperate with a charging socket of the power consumption terminal system to achieve electrical connection, and the second cooling channel being able to communicate with a first cooling channel of the power consumption terminal system.

[0026] According to the charging terminal system of the present invention, the charging terminal system can be interconnected with the power consumption terminal system. The heat exchange medium of the cooling channels of the two systems can cool the charging socket and the charging plug separately or simultaneously, thereby improving the cooling effect on the charging socket and the charging plug, avoiding the probability of aging and damage caused by excessive heat at the charging socket and the charging plug, and ensuring the reliability of charging speed and charging performance.

[0027] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a thermal management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the cooling of the power supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the thermal management system in charging and cooling mode according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a thermal management system in combined cooling mode according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a charging circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a charging socket and a charging plug according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a charging socket and a charging plug according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a charging socket and a charging plug according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the socket terminals and plug terminals according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure label: Thermal Management System 1000 Power consumption system 100, charging system 200, charging circuit 300, battery 310. First cooling channel 101, first medium channel 102, motor cooling channel 103, and electronic control cooling channel 104. Second cooling channel 201, second medium channel 202, third cooling channel 203 Charging socket 10, socket terminal 11, first socket terminal 111, second socket terminal 112, socket 113, first medium pump 12, first condenser 13, first liquid storage tank 14, motor module 15, and electronic control module 16. Charging plug 20, plug terminal 21, first plug terminal 211, second plug terminal 212, seal 213, mounting groove 214, second medium pump 22, second condenser 23, second liquid storage tank 24, power supply 25, switch 26. First control valve 31, second control valve 32, third control valve 33, fourth control valve 34, fifth control valve 35. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0031] In the description of this invention, 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," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention 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 the invention. Furthermore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0032] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" 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 or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0033] The following is for reference. Figures 1-9 A thermal management system 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0034] like Figures 1-9 As shown, a thermal management system 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a power-consuming system 100 and a charging system 200. The power-consuming system 100 is a thermal management system for an electrical device, which may be a vehicle, a drone, an electric toy, a spacecraft, etc. The vehicle includes a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a range-extended vehicle, etc. The charging system 200 is a thermal management system for a charging device, which includes charging stations, charging piles, and other charging equipment.

[0035] The power supply system 100 has a first cooling channel 101 and a charging socket 10. The heat exchange medium in the first cooling channel 101 can cool and dissipate heat from the heat-generating module of the power supply device.

[0036] The charging terminal system 200 has a second cooling channel 201 and a charging plug 20, wherein the heat exchange medium in the second cooling channel 201 is used to cool the charging plug 20.

[0037] The charging socket 10 can be connected to the charging plug 20, making the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 electrically connected. At the same time, the first cooling channel 101 can be connected to the second cooling channel 201. The heat exchange medium in the first cooling channel 101 can flow into the second cooling channel 201, and the heat exchange medium in the second cooling channel 201 can flow into the first cooling channel 101. That is, the power supply system 100 and the charging system 200 can be interconnected. This allows the heat exchange medium to cool the charging plug 20 and the charging socket 10, reducing the probability of damage caused by overheating at the charging plug 20 and the charging socket 10.

[0038] Understandably, when the electrical device is charging, the electrical connection between the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 generates significant heat. After the power-consuming system 100 and the charging system 200 are interconnected, the heat exchange medium of the charging system 200 can cool the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, and the heat exchange medium of the power-consuming system 100 can cool the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20. The heat exchange media of the power-consuming system 100 and the charging system 200 can simultaneously cool the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, further improving the cooling effect.

[0039] According to the thermal management system 1000 of the present invention, the power consumption system 100 and the charging system 200 are interconnected, so that the heat exchange medium of the cooling channels of the two systems can cool the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 separately or simultaneously, thereby improving the cooling effect on the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, avoiding the probability of aging and damage caused by excessive heat at the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, and ensuring the reliability of charging speed and charging performance.

[0040] In some examples, the charging end system 100 and the charging end system 200 can be equipped with power sources and control valves. By adjusting the direction of the cooling flow channel through the control valves, multiple working modes can be realized under the drive of the power source, thereby adapting to the cooling requirements under different conditions. For example, different flow control can be performed under high current charging and normal current charging to improve the cooling effect of the thermal management system 1000 on the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20. There can be one power source, which can be located in the charging end system 200 or the charging end system 100. There can also be two power sources, that is, the charging end system 200 and the charging end system 100 are each equipped with one power source. The power source can be a medium pump, compressor, etc. Through one or two power sources, the joint thermal management of the electrical device and the charging equipment can be realized.

[0041] In some examples, the charging plug 20 is connected to the charging gun cable, the second medium flow channel 202 is located inside the charging plug 20, and the second medium flow channel 202 is connected to the second cooling flow channel 201. The cooling medium flows through the charging gun cable to cool the charging gun cable.

[0042] In some embodiments, the charging socket 10 is provided with a first medium flow channel 102, which can communicate with the first cooling flow channel 101. The charging plug 20 is provided with a second medium flow channel 202, which can communicate with the second cooling flow channel 201. When the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 are connected, the first medium flow channel 102 and the second medium flow channel 202 are connected, thereby allowing the first cooling flow channel 101 and the second cooling flow channel 201 to communicate.

[0043] In other words, a medium flow channel is integrated within the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20. Thus, while the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 are electrically connected, the flow channels of the two systems are also connected. No additional docking structure is required, and the entire system does not need to determine the connection status of the two medium flow channels, saving time in determining the connection status and improving efficiency. At the same time, the heat exchange medium in the first medium flow channel 102 and the second medium flow channel 202 can better cool and dissipate heat from the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, improving the cooling effect.

[0044] In other embodiments, the charging socket 10 is provided with other socket structures on its exterior, which define a first medium flow channel 102. The charging plug 20 is provided with other mating structures on its exterior, which define a second medium flow channel 202. When the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 are connected, the other socket structures and other mating structures are correspondingly mated, thereby connecting the first medium flow channel 102 and the second medium flow channel 202, and thus connecting the first cooling flow channel 101 and the second cooling flow channel 201.

[0045] like Figures 6-9 As shown, in some embodiments, the charging socket 10 has a socket terminal 11 and the charging plug 20 has a plug terminal 21. The socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 are plugged into each other. For example, one of the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 defines a socket 113, and the other of the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 is adapted to be plugged into the socket 113 so that the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 are plugged into each other. Through the contact between the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21, the electrical connection between the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 is realized.

[0046] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, a first medium flow channel 102 is defined inside the socket terminal 11, and a second medium flow channel 202 is defined inside the plug terminal 21. The socket terminal 11 can be a tubular structure with a hollow interior forming the first medium flow channel 102, and the plug terminal 21 can be a tubular structure with a hollow interior forming the second medium flow channel 202. Thus, after the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 are plugged in and engaged, the first medium flow channel 102 and the second medium flow channel 202 are connected, thereby enabling the connection between the first cooling flow channel 101 and the second cooling flow channel 201.

[0047] Therefore, the pipeline for transporting the heat exchange medium and the conductor for conducting current are reused. When only the heat exchange medium needs to be transported, it is used as a pipeline; when only the current needs to be conducted, it is used as a conductor; and when both the heat exchange medium and the current need to be transported, the pipeline and the conductor are reused.

[0048] When the socket terminal 11 and plug terminal 21 adopt a hollow tube structure instead of the traditional copper-aluminum busbar for conducting current, the Joule heat of the socket terminal 11 and plug terminal 21 will be absorbed by the heat exchange medium flowing through the inside of the terminal. The heat exchange medium can cool the socket terminal 11 and plug terminal 21 through a phase change, which can fully cool the terminal and better meet the needs of high current charging. At the same time, compared with the traditional solid terminal, the cross-sectional area of ​​the tube of the socket terminal 11 and plug terminal 21 can be reduced to a certain extent while meeting the current transmission capacity, thereby saving materials and reducing costs.

[0049] In addition, the diameter of the first medium flow channel 102 is basically the same as the diameter of the second medium flow channel 202, thereby avoiding the problem of increased losses due to increased local resistance.

[0050] like Figure 8 As shown, the socket terminal 11 is provided with a socket hole 113, which is connected to one end of the first medium flow channel 102. The outer periphery of the plug terminal 21 is provided with a sealing member 213. When the socket terminal 11 is connected to the socket terminal 11, the sealing member 213 can abut against the wall of the socket hole 113, thereby achieving the sealing of the fluid at that location.

[0051] In some examples, the seal 213 includes multiple seals. The outer periphery of the plug terminal 21 is provided with multiple mounting grooves 214. The multiple mounting grooves 214 are provided at the end of the plug terminal 21. The seal 213 is sleeved on the mounting groove 214, and the seal 213 and the mounting groove 214 are correspondingly assembled. Thus, the sealing effect is improved by multiple seals 213, and the multiple seals 213 can also play a redundancy role.

[0052] In the above embodiments, by using hollow pipes to transport the heat exchange medium, the flow path and circuit are integrated. The charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 can simultaneously transport current and heat exchange medium. There is no need to arrange the current loop and the medium flow path separately, which simplifies the overall structure, makes the whole structure more compact, and helps to reduce the structural size and improve the space utilization.

[0053] like Figure 6 As shown, the charging socket 10 has a housing, and the socket terminals 11 include a first socket terminal 111 and a second socket terminal 112, which can be integrated into one housing; correspondingly, the charging plug 20 has a housing, and the plug terminals 21 include a first plug terminal 211 and a second plug terminal 212, which can be integrated into one housing.

[0054] In other embodiments, the charging socket 10 has a housing, and a first medium flow channel 102 is disposed inside the housing and located outside the socket terminal 11. That is, the first medium flow channel 102 and the socket terminal 11 are integrated on the charging socket 10, but are arranged independently from the current loop, thereby realizing independent control of the circuit and the medium path.

[0055] In some embodiments, the heat exchange medium in the first cooling channel 101 and the second cooling channel 201 is an insulating medium, and the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 are conductive structural components. For example, the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 can be metal pipes, thereby enabling the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 to be electrically connected, while the internal heat exchange medium will not short-circuit with them. The insulating medium and the conductive pipes can combine the medium circuit and the electrical circuit, reducing the system complexity caused by the independence of the medium circuit and the circuit, while ensuring the reliability of the entire thermal management system 1000.

[0056] In some embodiments, the power-consuming system 100 may include components such as a compressor, and the power-consuming system 100 may use compression refrigeration to cool the heating module of the power-consuming end; the charging system 200 may include components such as a compressor, and the charging system 200 may use compression refrigeration to cool the heating module of the charging end.

[0057] like Figure 1As shown, in some embodiments, the power-consuming system 100 includes a first medium pump 12 and a first condenser 13. The first medium pump 12 drives the heat exchange medium of the first cooling channel 101 to dissipate heat at the first condenser 13. That is, the power-consuming system 100 adopts a pump-driven direct cooling method to cool the high-heat-generating modules of the power-consuming end, such as the motor module 15 and the electronic control module 16. The heat-generating modules are cooled by absorbing heat through phase change of the heat exchange medium, which has a stronger heat exchange capacity and higher temperature uniformity. Moreover, the high heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange medium makes the required heat exchange area and channel size smaller, saving materials. In addition, by using an insulating heat exchange medium, direct immersion cooling of the heat-generating modules can be achieved, eliminating the need for cold plates and joints, making the overall system more compact. At the same time, compared with the compression refrigeration system, it has lower energy consumption and lower cost.

[0058] In some examples, Freon is used as the heat exchange medium, that is, the first medium pump 12 is a fluorine pump that can drive the flow of the Freon. The fluorine pump is smaller, lighter and more energy-efficient than the pump of the liquid cooling system, thereby reducing the system cost.

[0059] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the power supply system 100 further includes a motor cooling channel 103, which flows through the motor module 15. The heat exchange medium of the motor cooling channel 103 can directly immerse the motor module 15. The motor cooling channel 103 can also be connected to the heat exchange structure of the motor module 15 for indirect heat exchange. In addition, the motor cooling channel 103 is provided with a fourth control valve 34. By controlling the opening and closing of the fourth control valve 34, the cooling of the motor module 15 can be controlled.

[0060] The thermal management system 1000 has a motor cooling mode. In the motor cooling mode, the motor cooling channel 103 is connected to the first cooling channel 101. The first medium pump 12 drives the heat exchange medium of the motor cooling channel 103 to dissipate heat at the first condenser 13, thereby cooling the motor module 15.

[0061] The specific working method in the motor cooling mode is as follows: the fourth control valve 34 is opened, and the subcooled liquid heat exchange medium in the first storage tank 14 is driven by the first medium pump 12. After flowing through the motor module 15 of the motor cooling channel 103, it absorbs heat and vaporizes. The heat exchange medium becomes a gas-liquid two-phase mixture and then enters the first condenser 13 to be condensed into a subcooled liquid and stored in the first storage tank 14. The fourth control valve 34 can also control the opening degree of the entire circuit.

[0062] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the power-consuming system 100 further includes an electrically controlled cooling channel 104, which flows through the electrically controlled module 16. The heat exchange medium of the electrically controlled cooling channel 104 can directly immerse the electrically controlled module 16, and the electrically controlled cooling channel 104 can also be connected to the heat exchange structure of the electrically controlled module 16 for indirect heat exchange. In addition, the electrically controlled cooling channel 104 is provided with a fifth control valve 35, and the cooling of the electrically controlled module 16 can be controlled by controlling the opening and closing of the fifth control valve 35.

[0063] The thermal management system 1000 has an electronically controlled cooling mode. In the electronically controlled cooling mode, the electronically controlled cooling channel 104 is connected to the first cooling channel 101. The first medium pump 12 drives the heat exchange medium of the electronically controlled cooling channel 104 to dissipate heat at the first condenser 13, thereby cooling the electronically controlled module 16.

[0064] The specific working method of the electronically controlled cooling mode is as follows: the fifth control valve 35 is opened, and the subcooled liquid heat exchange medium in the first liquid storage tank 14 is driven by the first medium pump 12. After flowing through the electronic control module 16 of the electronically controlled cooling channel 104, it absorbs heat and vaporizes. The heat exchange medium becomes a gas-liquid two-phase mixture and then enters the first condenser 13 to condense into a subcooled liquid and enters the first liquid storage tank 14 for storage. The fifth control valve 35 can also control the opening degree of the entire circuit.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, the motor cooling channel 103 and the electronic control cooling channel 104 are arranged in parallel. Of course, the motor cooling channel 103 and the electronic control cooling channel 104 can also be arranged in series. In addition, depending on the heat load of the power consumption terminal, the first condenser 13 can work independently, or the fan can be started to enhance the heat exchange of the first condenser 13, thereby meeting the cooling needs of the power consumption terminal for high power density heating modules in different scenarios.

[0066] Of course, the power supply system 100 may also include other cooling channels, which flow through other heat-generating modules, and the thermal management system 1000 may have other cooling modes.

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the power supply system 100 further includes a first liquid storage tank 14, which is located between the outlet of the first condenser 13 and the inlet of the first medium pump 12, for storing heat exchange medium.

[0068] By setting up the first liquid storage tank 14, sufficient space can be provided to fully separate the gas and liquid two-phase heat exchange medium, ensuring that the inlet of the first medium pump 12 is pure liquid phase, preventing cavitation, protecting the reliable operation of the first medium pump 12, and the heat exchange medium in the first liquid storage tank 14 can be quickly replenished when the heat load suddenly increases, avoiding insufficient liquid supply at the inlet of the first medium pump 12. When the heat load suddenly decreases, the excess liquid phase medium can be temporarily stored in the first liquid storage tank 14 to prevent drastic fluctuations in system pressure, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the entire power-consuming system 100.

[0069] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the charging end system 200 includes a second medium pump 22 and a second condenser 23. The second medium pump 22 drives the heat exchange medium of the second cooling channel 201 to dissipate heat at the second condenser 23, thereby cooling the charging plug 20. In other words, the charging end system 200 adopts a pump-driven direct cooling method to cool the high-heat modules of the charging end, such as the charging cable and the charging plug 20. The heat exchange medium absorbs heat through phase change, resulting in stronger heat exchange capacity and higher temperature uniformity. Moreover, the high heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange medium allows for a smaller required heat exchange area and channel size, saving materials. In addition, by using an insulating heat exchange medium, direct immersion cooling of the heat-generating module can be achieved, eliminating the need for components such as cold plates and connectors, making the overall system more compact. At the same time, compared with a compression refrigeration system, it has lower energy consumption and lower cost.

[0070] In some examples, Freon is used as the heat exchange medium, that is, the first medium pump 12 is a fluorine pump that can drive the flow of the Freon. Fluorine pumps are typically smaller, lighter and more energy-efficient than pumps in liquid cooling systems, thereby reducing system costs.

[0071] In some embodiments, the rated flow rate of the second medium pump 22 is greater than the rated flow rate of the first medium pump 12. Since the cooling requirements of the charging end system 200 are relatively high, the second medium pump 22 is designed with a relatively large rated flow rate to meet the cooling requirements of the charging end system 200. For example... Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the charging terminal system 200 further includes a second liquid storage tank 24, which is located between the outlet of the second condenser 23 and the inlet of the second medium pump 22, for storing the heat exchange medium.

[0072] By setting up a second liquid storage tank 24, sufficient space can be provided to fully separate the gas-liquid two-phase heat exchange medium, ensuring that the inlet of the second medium pump 22 is a pure liquid phase, preventing cavitation, protecting the reliable operation of the second medium pump 22, and the heat exchange medium in the second liquid storage tank 24 can be quickly replenished when the heat load suddenly increases, avoiding insufficient liquid supply at the inlet of the second medium pump 22. When the heat load suddenly decreases, the excess liquid phase medium can be temporarily stored in the second liquid storage tank 24 to prevent drastic fluctuations in system pressure, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the entire charging terminal system 200.

[0073] like Figure 1 , Figures 3-6 As shown, in some embodiments, the charging socket 10 has a first socket terminal 111 and a second socket terminal 112, the power supply system 100 includes a battery 310, which is electrically connected between the first socket terminal 111 and the second socket terminal 112, the charging plug 20 has a first plug terminal 211 and a second plug terminal 212, and the charging system 200 includes a power supply 25, which is electrically connected between the first plug terminal 211 and the second plug terminal 212. In addition, a switch 26 is provided between the power supply 25 and the first plug terminal 211 or the second plug terminal 212, wherein the first socket terminal 111 is connected to the first plug terminal 211, and the second socket terminal 112 is connected to the second plug terminal 212 to form a charging circuit 300.

[0074] The charging circuit 300 works as follows: the charging plug 20 is plugged into the charging socket 10, the first socket terminal 111 is connected to the first plug terminal 211, the second socket terminal 112 is connected to the second plug terminal 212, the switch 26 is closed, the current circuit is turned on, and the current flows from the positive terminal of the power supply 25 through the switch 26, the second plug terminal 212, the second socket terminal 112, the battery 310, the first socket terminal 111 and the first plug terminal 211 and then back to the negative terminal of the power supply 25, thus completing the current conduction.

[0075] in Figure 1 , Figures 3-6 The purpose of arranging the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 separately is to clearly illustrate how the heat exchange medium circuit and the current circuit are connected when the system is working.

[0076] It should be noted that the plug terminal 21 has a conductive section and an insulating section. The conductive section is closer to the charging plug 20 than the insulating section. The power supply 25 is connected to the conductive section of the plug terminal 21, and the insulating section is connected to the structural component on the second cooling channel 201. Correspondingly, the socket terminal 11 also has a conductive section and an insulating section. The conductive section is closer to the charging socket 10 than the insulating section. The battery 310 is connected to the conductive section of the socket terminal 11, and the insulating section is connected to the structural component on the first cooling channel 101, thereby achieving the separation of the circuit and the flow path.

[0077] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the thermal management system 1000 further includes a first control valve 31 and a second control valve 32. The first control valve 31 is located between the first medium pump 12 and the first socket terminal 111 and is used to control the flow path between the first medium pump 12 and the first socket terminal 111. When the first control valve 31 is open, the outlet of the first medium pump 12 can be connected to the first socket terminal 111. Then, when the first socket terminal 111 and the first plug terminal 211 are connected, the outlet of the first medium pump 12 can be connected to the inlet of the second condenser 23. Thus, under the action of the first medium pump 12, the heat exchange medium can absorb the heat at the first socket terminal 111 and the first plug terminal 211 and deliver it to the second condenser 23 to complete heat dissipation and heat exchange, thereby achieving cooling of the first socket terminal 111 and the first plug terminal 211.

[0078] The second control valve 32 is located between the second socket terminal 112 and the first condenser 13. The second control valve 32 can control the opening and closing of the flow path between the second socket terminal 112 and the first condenser 13. When the second control valve 32 is open, the second socket terminal 112 and the first condenser 13 can be connected. Then, when the second socket terminal 112 and the second plug terminal 212 are connected, the outlet of the second medium pump 22 can be connected to the inlet of the first condenser 13. Thus, under the action of the second medium pump 22, the heat exchange medium can absorb the heat at the second socket terminal 112 and the second plug terminal 212 and transport it to the first condenser 13 to complete heat dissipation and heat exchange, thereby achieving cooling of the second socket terminal 112 and the second plug terminal 212.

[0079] By setting the first control valve 31 and the second control valve 32, the flow path can be opened and closed. When the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 are not connected, the flow path can be disconnected to avoid the loss of heat exchange medium. At the same time, when the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 are connected, the flow path can be opened to realize the connection of heat exchange medium between the power supply system 100 and the charging system 200.

[0080] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the thermal management system 1000 has a combined cooling mode. In the combined cooling mode, the second cooling channel 201 is connected to the first cooling channel 101. The first medium pump 12 and the second medium pump 22 jointly drive the heat exchange medium to flow and dissipate heat at the first condenser 13 and the second condenser 23, thereby cooling the charging plug 20 and the charging socket 10. The flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the first medium pump 12 is the same as that in the second medium pump 22, so that the heat exchange medium can flow in the same direction in the two cooling channels and the two condensers.

[0081] The combined cooling mode is a mode in which the power-consuming system 100 and the charging system 200 work together, such as... Figure 4 As shown, in the combined cooling mode, the specific working method is as follows: the first control valve 31 and the second control valve 32 are opened, and the subcooled liquid heat exchange medium flows out from the first storage tank 14. Driven by the first medium pump 12, it flows through the first socket terminal 111 and the first plug terminal 211, absorbs heat and vaporizes, becoming a gas-liquid two-phase mixture. Then, it enters the second condenser 23 and is condensed into a subcooled liquid medium, which is then stored in the second storage tank 24. At the same time, the subcooled liquid heat exchange medium in the second storage tank 24 flows out from the outlet, is driven by the second medium pump 22, flows through the second plug terminal 212 and the second socket terminal 112, absorbs heat and vaporizes, becoming a gas-liquid two-phase mixture. Then, it enters the first condenser 13 and is condensed into a subcooled liquid, which is then stored in the first storage tank 14.

[0082] The fan can be activated to enhance heat exchange in the first condenser 13; the fan can also be activated to enhance heat exchange in the second condenser 23.

[0083] In other words, driven by one pump, the heat exchange medium first removes the heat from one set of socket terminals 11 and plug terminals 21, and then cools them down through a condenser. Driven by another pump, the heat from another set of socket terminals 11 and plug terminals 21 can be cooled down through another condenser. Therefore, by setting a combined cooling mode, the terminals of the two sets of plugs and sockets that cooperate within the charging plug 20 and charging socket 10 can be cooled down through two condensers respectively. The heat will not be concentrated on one condenser. Moreover, through two-stage pumping and condensation, the heat can be removed in stages, with each stage handling a smaller temperature difference. The two medium pumps can respond to sudden changes in heat load more quickly, avoiding excessive pressure on a single pump and expanding the thermal management capability during charging. Thus, in the combined cooling mode, the cooling effect is improved, which can meet the heat load cooling requirements of the charging plug 20 and charging socket 10 during high-current charging.

[0084] In addition, the power-consuming system 100 connects the two closed flow paths by connecting to the charging system 200, allowing the heat exchange medium to flow freely, and also allowing adjustment of the heat exchange medium storage amount in the power-consuming system 100.

[0085] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the thermal management system 1000 further includes a third cooling channel 203, which is connected between the first socket terminal 111 and the second socket terminal 112, and is connected to the second cooling channel 201 when the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 are connected.

[0086] In other words, by setting the third cooling channel 203, when the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 are connected, the heat exchange medium in the second cooling channel 201 can flow to the third cooling channel 203, and the heat exchange medium can flow through the socket terminal 11. Thus, while cooling and dissipating heat from the plug terminal 21, the two socket terminals 11 are also cooled and dissipated, improving the cooling effect at the charging connector.

[0087] The thermal management system 1000 also includes a third control valve 33, which is closable and located on the third cooling channel 203 to control the on / off state of the third cooling channel 203, such as... Figure 3 As shown, when the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 are connected, the first medium flow channel 102 and the second medium flow channel 202 are connected. The second medium flow channel 202 is connected to the second cooling flow channel 201. When the third control valve 33 is opened, the third cooling flow channel 203 can be connected to the second cooling flow channel 201 through the second medium flow channel 202. This allows the outlet of the second medium pump 22 to be connected to the inlet of the second condenser 23. Under the action of the second medium pump 22, the heat exchange medium can absorb the heat from the second socket terminal 112 and the second plug terminal 212, as well as the heat from the first socket terminal 111 and the first plug terminal 211, and deliver it to the second condenser 23 to complete heat dissipation and heat exchange, thereby cooling down the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21.

[0088] By setting the third control valve 33, the on / off control of the third cooling channel 203 can be realized. Thus, the cooling mode of the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 can be selected according to the temperature at the charging connector, so as to ensure effective cooling of the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20.

[0089] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the thermal management system 1000 has a charging cooling mode. In the charging cooling mode, the third cooling channel 203 is connected to the second cooling channel 201, and the second medium pump 22 drives the heat exchange medium of the second cooling channel 201 and the third cooling channel 203 to dissipate heat at the second condenser 23, thereby cooling the charging plug 20 and the charging socket 10.

[0090] The charging cooling mode is the mode in which the charging terminal system 200 operates, such as... Figure 3As shown, after the charging plug 20 and charging socket 10 are connected, the first socket terminal 111 is connected to the first plug terminal 211, and the second socket terminal 112 is connected to the second plug terminal 212. The connection of the heat exchange medium pipeline is confirmed by an electrical circuit signal or other means, and then the charging cooling mode can be entered. In the charging cooling mode, the specific operating method is as follows: the subcooled liquid heat exchange medium flows out from the second storage tank 24, driven by the second medium pump 22, and flows through the second plug terminal 212 and the second socket terminal 112, absorbing heat and vaporizing. The heat exchange medium passes through the third control valve 33, flows through the first socket terminal 111 and the first plug terminal 211, and continues to absorb heat and vaporize, becoming a gas-liquid two-phase mixture before entering the second condenser 23 and condensing into a subcooled liquid, which is then stored in the second storage tank 24. Depending on the heat load of the charging system 200, the second condenser 23 can operate independently, or a fan can be activated to enhance heat exchange in the second condenser 23.

[0091] Understandably, during charging, the electrical device is usually in a stopped state, with heat-generating modules such as the motor and electronic control system ceasing operation or operating at low power, thus requiring no cooling. In this case, if the charging cooling mode cannot meet the heat load cooling requirements of the charging plug 20 and charging socket 10 during high-current charging, the power supply system 100 can be activated. The power supply system 100 and the charging system 200 can work together to fully meet the high heat flux density heat dissipation requirements of the charging plug 20 and charging socket 10 during high-current charging. Different cooling modes can be achieved by controlling the opening and closing of the first control valve 31, the second control valve 32, and the third control valve 33.

[0092] In other examples, a fourth cooling channel may also be provided between the first plug terminal 211 and the second plug terminal 212. When the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 are connected, the first cooling channel 101 and the fourth cooling channel are connected, so that the heat exchange medium in the first cooling channel 101 can flow to the fourth cooling channel, and the heat exchange medium can flow through the socket terminal 11 and the plug terminal 21 to achieve cooling of the charging connector.

[0093] In some embodiments, the thermal management system 1000 further includes a temperature detection device (not shown in the figure) and a control module (not shown in the figure). The temperature detection device is used to detect the temperature at the charging socket 10, or the temperature at the charging plug 20, or simultaneously detect the temperatures at the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20. The control module controls the opening and closing of the first control valve 31, the second control valve 32, and the third control valve 33 according to the temperature detected by the temperature detection device. That is, during charging, after the charging plug 20 is successfully connected to the charging socket 10 and the current is turned on, the temperature of the conductor after being heated by electricity can be detected by the temperature detection device. The control module opens the control valve of the fluid circuit to make the flow path open, thereby making the control convenient, reliable, and highly accurate.

[0094] In addition, by using a temperature detection device to monitor the temperature at the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, a charging cooling mode can be activated when the temperature is low, and a combined cooling mode can be activated when the temperature is high. By detecting the temperature, the response speed of mode switching can be improved.

[0095] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the power supply system 100 has a first cooling channel 101 and a charging socket 10. The charging socket 10 can cooperate with the charging plug 20 of the charging system 200 to achieve electrical connection, and the first cooling channel 101 can communicate with the second cooling channel 201 of the charging system 200.

[0096] Therefore, the power supply system 100 and the charging system 200 are interconnected, and the heat exchange medium in the cooling channels of the two systems can cool the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 separately or simultaneously, thereby improving the cooling effect on the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, avoiding the probability of aging and damage caused by excessive heat at the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, and ensuring the reliability of charging speed and charging performance.

[0097] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the charging terminal system 200 has a second cooling channel 201 and a charging plug 20. The charging plug 20 can cooperate with the charging socket 10 of the power user system 100 to achieve electrical connection, and the second cooling channel 201 can communicate with the first cooling channel 101 of the power user system 100.

[0098] Thus, the charging end system 200 and the power consumption end system 100 are interconnected, and the heat exchange medium in the cooling channels of the two systems can cool the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20 separately or simultaneously, thereby improving the cooling effect on the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, avoiding the probability of aging and damage caused by excessive heat at the charging socket 10 and the charging plug 20, and ensuring the reliability of charging speed and charging performance.

[0099] Other configurations and operations of the thermal management system 1000 according to embodiments of the present invention are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here. The vertical, horizontal, and front-back directions are defined as shown in the figures.

[0100] In the description of this invention, 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 not in direct contact but through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature 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.

[0101] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0102] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A thermal management system, characterized in that, include: Power supply system (100) having a first cooling channel (101) and a charging socket (10). A charging terminal system (200) having a second cooling channel (201) and a charging plug (20). The charging socket (10) can be connected to the charging plug (20) to achieve electrical connection. The first cooling channel (101) can be connected to the second cooling channel (201) so that the heat exchange medium in the first cooling channel (101) and the heat exchange medium in the second cooling channel (201) can cool the charging plug (20) and the charging socket (10).

2. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The charging socket (10) has a first medium channel (102) that can communicate with the first cooling channel (101), and the charging plug (20) has a second medium channel (202) that can communicate with the second cooling channel (201). When the charging socket (10) and the charging plug (20) are connected, the first medium flow channel (102) and the second medium flow channel (202) are connected.

3. The thermal management system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The charging socket (10) has a socket terminal (11), the charging plug (20) has a plug terminal (21), the socket terminal (11) and the plug terminal (21) are electrically connected, the socket terminal (11) defines a first medium flow channel (102), and the plug terminal (21) defines a second medium flow channel (202).

4. The thermal management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The heat exchange medium in the first cooling channel (101) and the second cooling channel (201) is an insulating medium, and the socket terminal (11) and the plug terminal (21) are conductive structural components.

5. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The power supply system (100) includes a first medium pump (12) and a first condenser (13), wherein the first medium pump (12) drives the heat exchange medium of the first cooling channel (101) to dissipate heat at the first condenser (13).

6. The thermal management system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The power supply system (100) further includes a motor cooling channel (103) flowing through the motor module (15). The thermal management system has a motor cooling mode in which the motor cooling channel (103) is connected to the first cooling channel (101), and the first medium pump (12) drives the heat exchange medium of the motor cooling channel (103) to dissipate heat at the first condenser (13) to cool the motor module (15); and / or, The power-consuming system (100) further includes an electrically controlled cooling channel (104) flowing through the electrical control module (16). The thermal management system has an electrically controlled cooling mode. In the electrically controlled cooling mode, the electrically controlled cooling channel (104) is connected to the first cooling channel (101). The first medium pump (12) drives the heat exchange medium of the electrically controlled cooling channel (104) to dissipate heat at the first condenser (13) to cool the electrical control module (16); and / or, The power supply system (100) also includes a first liquid storage tank (14), which is located between the first medium pump (12) and the first condenser (13) and is used to store the heat exchange medium.

7. The thermal management system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The charging terminal system (200) includes a second medium pump (22) and a second condenser (23). The second medium pump (22) drives the heat exchange medium of the second cooling channel (201) to dissipate heat at the second condenser (23) to cool the charging plug (20).

8. The thermal management system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The charging terminal system (200) further includes a second liquid storage tank (24), which is located between the second medium pump (22) and the second condenser (23) for storing the heat exchange medium; and / or, The rated flow rate of the second medium pump (22) is greater than the rated flow rate of the first medium pump (12).

9. The thermal management system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The charging socket (10) has a first socket terminal (111) and a second socket terminal (112), the power supply system (100) includes a battery (310) electrically connected between the first socket terminal (111) and the second socket terminal (112), the charging plug (20) has a first plug terminal (211) and a second plug terminal (212), and the charging system (200) includes a power source (25) electrically connected between the first plug terminal (211) and the second plug terminal (212). The first socket terminal (111) is connected to the first plug terminal (211), and the second socket terminal (112) is connected to the second plug terminal (212) to form a charging circuit (300).

10. The thermal management system according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: The first control valve (31) is located between the first medium pump (12) and the first socket terminal (111) and is used to control the opening and closing of the flow path between the first medium pump (12) and the first socket terminal (111). The second control valve (32) is located between the second socket terminal (112) and the first condenser (13) and is used to control the flow path between the second socket terminal (112) and the first condenser (13).

11. The thermal management system according to claim 10, characterized in that, Also includes: A third cooling channel (203) is connected between the first socket terminal (111) and the second socket terminal (112). The third control valve (33) is located on the third cooling channel (203) and is used to control the opening and closing of the third cooling channel (203).

12. The thermal management system according to claim 11, characterized in that, It also includes: a temperature detection device and a control module, wherein the temperature detection device is used to detect the temperature at the charging socket (10) and / or the charging plug (20), and the control module controls the opening and closing of the first control valve (31), the second control valve (32), and the third control valve (33) according to the temperature detected by the temperature detection device; and / or, The thermal management system has a charging cooling mode. In the charging cooling mode, the third cooling channel (203) is connected to the second cooling channel (201). The second medium pump (22) drives the heat exchange medium of the second cooling channel (201) and the third cooling channel (203) to dissipate heat at the second condenser (23) to cool the charging plug (20) and the charging socket (10).

13. The thermal management system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thermal management system has a combined cooling mode. In the combined cooling mode, the second cooling channel (201) is connected to the first cooling channel (101). The first medium pump (12) and the second medium pump (22) jointly drive the heat exchange medium to flow and dissipate heat at the first condenser (13) and the second condenser (23) to cool the charging plug (20) and the charging socket (10). The flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the first medium pump (12) is the same as the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the second medium pump (22).

14. A power-consuming terminal system, characterized in that, The power supply system (100) has a first cooling channel (101) and a charging socket (10). The charging socket (10) can be used with the charging plug (20) of the charging system (200) to achieve electrical connection, and the first cooling channel (101) can be connected to the second cooling channel (201) of the charging system (200).

15. A charging terminal system, characterized in that, The charging terminal system (200) has a second cooling channel (201) and a charging plug (20). The charging plug (20) can be used with the charging socket (10) of the power user system (100) to achieve electrical connection, and the second cooling channel (201) can be connected to the first cooling channel (101) of the power user system (100).

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