Battery cluster and energy storage system

Abstract

The utility model relates to the field of energy storage, in particular to a battery cluster and an energy storage system. The battery cluster provided by the utility model comprises a control module and a plurality of battery units, the battery unit comprises a shell provided with an accommodating cavity; the plurality of battery cell monomers are arranged in the accommodating cavity; the liquid cooling plate is arranged in the accommodating cavity, the plurality of battery cell monomers are in contact with the liquid cooling plate, and a cooling liquid channel for circulation of battery cooling liquid is arranged in the liquid cooling plate; and the control module and the plurality of battery units are stacked along a second direction, and the control module and the plurality of battery units are connected to form a battery cluster. The battery cluster and the energy storage system provided by the utility model can improve or solve the problems that a box-type energy storage system is complex in structure, high in material cost and low in space utilization rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the field of energy storage, and in particular to a battery cluster and an energy storage system. Background Art

[0002] In related technologies, energy storage devices such as battery packs, battery management systems, energy storage converters, and energy management systems are integrated into a box, creating a plug-and-play box-type energy storage system. This box-type energy storage system stores electrical energy through batteries and, when needed, converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) through an inverter for output.

[0003] The box-type energy storage system includes a box body surrounded by sheet metal and a partition installed inside the box. The partition divides the space inside the box into multiple cavities, and multiple battery packs are placed in the cavities one by one. Each battery pack includes a first shell surrounded by sheet metal and multiple battery cells installed in the first shell. The battery cells also include a second shell and a battery cell installed in the second shell.

[0004] The box-type energy storage system in the related art requires a box body surrounded by plates and a battery pack housing surrounded by plates. Its structure is relatively complex, the material cost is high, and the space utilization rate is low. Utility Model Content

[0005] The utility model provides a battery cluster and an energy storage system, which can improve or solve the problems of box-type energy storage systems, such as complex structure, high material cost and low space utilization.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a battery cluster comprising a control module and a plurality of battery cells;

[0007] The battery unit comprises:

[0008] The housing is provided with a receiving cavity;

[0009] A plurality of battery cells are arranged in the accommodating cavity;

[0010] A liquid cooling plate is provided in the accommodating cavity, wherein the plurality of battery cells are in contact with the liquid cooling plate, and a cooling liquid channel for circulating battery cooling liquid is provided inside the liquid cooling plate;

[0011] The control module and the multiple battery cells are stacked along the second direction. The control module and the multiple battery cells are provided with corresponding first connection holes. Connecting rods are inserted into the corresponding first connection holes. Both ends of the connecting rods extend from the control module and the battery cells, and the extended parts are used to be connected to the frame of the energy storage system. The control module and the multiple battery cells are connected through the connecting rods to form the battery cluster.

[0012] Beneficial effects:

[0013] In the technical solution provided by the present invention, multiple battery cells and control modules are stacked and interconnected via connecting rods to form a battery cluster with an integrated structure. When the battery cluster provided by the present invention is used in an energy storage system, the battery cluster can be directly connected to the energy storage system frame via the ends of the connecting rods. There is no need to first place the battery cells and control modules within the housing and then install them into the accommodating cavity formed by the partitions in the box. The battery cluster provided by the present invention has a simple structure and low cost. The battery cells are arranged in a stacked integral structure and can be directly connected to the frame, making the overall structure more compact and improving space utilization.

[0014] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an energy storage system, comprising:

[0015] frame;

[0016] A battery pack comprising a plurality of battery clusters as described above, wherein the plurality of battery clusters are arranged in a first direction within the frame;

[0017] A cooling pipeline system, comprising a liquid supply pipeline system and a liquid return pipeline system, wherein the outlet of the liquid supply pipeline system is connected to the inlet of each of the cooling liquid channels, and the inlet of the liquid return pipeline system is connected to the outlet of each of the cooling liquid channels;

[0018] A heat exchange device is provided on the frame, the inlet of the heat exchange device is connected to the outlet of the return liquid pipeline system, and the outlet of the heat exchange device is connected to the inlet of the supply liquid pipeline system. The heat exchange device is used to dissipate heat from the battery coolant.

[0019] Beneficial effects:

[0020] The energy storage system battery pack provided by the present invention comprises multiple battery clusters, each of which comprises multiple stacked battery cells. This pack features a compact structure and high energy storage density. During operation, the liquid supply piping system delivers coolant to the battery cells. After heat exchange with the battery cells, the coolant is then transported by the return piping system to a heat exchange device, where it rapidly exchanges heat and lowers its temperature. The cooled coolant then enters the liquid supply piping system and is then transported by the liquid supply piping system to the liquid cooling plates within the battery cells for heat exchange, repeating the cycle. The energy storage system provided by the present invention rapidly cools the battery pack, preventing temperature accumulation within the battery pack that could lead to combustion or even explosion. Furthermore, it should be noted that the housings of the multiple battery cells are stacked together, and after the battery cluster is secured to a frame via connecting rods, the housings of the multiple battery cells collectively form the battery cluster housing, i.e., the outer shell of the energy storage system. This eliminates the need for a separate housing for the energy storage system; instead, a frame is required to connect the battery clusters, further improving the packing density and energy density of the energy storage system.

[0021] The energy storage system provided by the present utility model further includes:

[0022] The air conditioner outdoor unit is arranged in the frame. The air conditioner outdoor unit is provided with a refrigerant heat exchanger. The refrigerant heat exchanger constitutes the heat exchange device. The refrigerant heat exchanger is used for heat exchange between battery coolant and air conditioner refrigerant.

[0023] The energy storage system provided by the present utility model further includes:

[0024] An air heat exchanger is provided on the frame. The air heat exchanger constitutes the heat exchange device and is used for exchanging heat between the battery coolant and the outside air.

[0025] The energy storage system provided by the present utility model further includes:

[0026] An air conditioner outdoor unit is disposed within the frame, the air conditioner outdoor unit being provided with a refrigerant heat exchanger, the inlet of the refrigerant heat exchanger being connected to the outlet of the return liquid pipeline system, and the outlet of the refrigerant heat exchanger being connected to the inlet of the supply liquid pipeline system, the refrigerant heat exchanger being used for exchanging heat between battery coolant and air conditioner refrigerant;

[0027] an air heat exchanger, disposed on the frame, wherein the inlet of the air heat exchanger is connected to the liquid return pipeline system via a first pipeline, and the outlet of the air heat exchanger is connected to the liquid supply pipeline system via a second pipeline. The air heat exchanger is used to exchange heat between battery coolant and external air. The air heat exchanger and the refrigerant heat exchanger together constitute the heat exchange device;

[0028] a first control valve, used to control the connection or cutoff of the air heat exchanger with the liquid supply pipeline system and the liquid return pipeline system;

[0029] The second control valve is used to control the connection or cutoff of the refrigerant heat exchanger with the liquid supply pipeline system and the liquid return pipeline system.

[0030] Beneficial effects:

[0031] When the energy storage system is operating, if the temperature of the external environment exceeds the set temperature, the first control valve can be closed and the second control valve can be opened, allowing the coolant to enter the refrigerant heat exchanger to exchange heat with the refrigerant of the air conditioner. When the temperature of the external environment is lower than the set temperature, the first control valve can be opened and the second control valve can be closed, allowing the coolant to enter the air heat exchanger, where the coolant can exchange heat with the external air. Therefore, the further solution provided by the utility model can control the heat exchange of the coolant with the refrigerant heat exchanger or with the air heat exchanger according to the external temperature conditions, thereby optimizing the heat exchange method and reducing energy consumption.

[0032] According to the energy storage system provided by the present utility model, the air conditioner outdoor unit includes a fan, and the air heat exchanger can be switched between a first position and a second position on the frame;

[0033] When the air heat exchanger is in the first position, the air heat exchanger corresponds to the air outlet of the air conditioner outdoor unit, so that the fan can drive the air flow toward the air heat exchanger;

[0034] When the air heat exchanger is in the second position, the air heat exchanger avoids the air outlet of the air conditioner outdoor unit.

[0035] The energy storage system provided by the present utility model further includes:

[0036] A fire-fighting pipeline, the first end of which is used to be connected to an external fire-fighting facility, the second end of which is in communication with the liquid supply pipeline system or the liquid return pipeline system, and the fire-fighting pipeline is provided with a valve device;

[0037] A spray device is provided in each of the battery cells, the spray device is connected to the liquid supply pipeline system, and the spray device is suitable for opening when the temperature reaches a set temperature.

[0038] Beneficial effects:

[0039] In a further embodiment, the energy storage system further includes a fire protection pipeline. A sprinkler device, specifically a fire sprinkler, may be installed within the battery cell. The first end of the fire protection pipeline is connected to external firefighting equipment, and the second end is connected to the liquid supply or return piping system. A valve device is also provided on the fire protection pipeline. When high temperatures or combustion issues occur within the battery cell, the sprinkler device activates and the valve device opens. External fire protection equipment sprays the battery cell interior through the fire protection pipeline and sprinkler device to cool it down, effectively preventing fires.

[0040] According to the energy storage system provided by the present invention, the valve device is configured as a one-way valve, which is suitable for opening when the difference between the internal pressure of the first end and the internal pressure of the second end is greater than a threshold value.

[0041] Beneficial effects:

[0042] In a further embodiment, the valve device on the fire protection pipeline is configured as a one-way valve, and the one-way valve opens when the difference between the internal pressure at the first end and the internal pressure at the second end of the fire protection pipeline exceeds a threshold value. When the sprinkler sprays water, the liquid pressure within the closed-loop piping system formed by the liquid supply and return piping systems drops. At this point, the difference between the internal pressure at the first end and the internal pressure at the second end of the fire protection pipeline exceeds the threshold value, thereby opening the one-way valve. The fire protection equipment then pumps water into the liquid supply or return piping system, allowing the sprinkler to continuously spray water, thereby achieving a fire protection effect.

[0043] According to the energy storage system provided by the present utility model, the spraying device includes:

[0044] sprinkler head body;

[0045] A plug is used to seal the injection port of the shower head body, and the plug is configured to melt under a set temperature condition.

[0046] Beneficial effects:

[0047] When a fire breaks out inside a battery cell, the high temperature melts the plug, causing the nozzle in the showerhead to automatically open and begin spraying water to cool the unit. Compared to electronically controlled showerhead opening, this solution uses a purely mechanical mechanism to automatically control showerhead opening. This avoids electronic failures caused by high temperatures or fire, significantly improving reliability.

[0048] According to the energy storage system provided by the present utility model, the liquid supply pipeline system includes:

[0049] a liquid supply trunk line, connected to the outlet of the heat exchange device;

[0050] There are multiple first-stage liquid supply branches, each corresponding to each of the battery clusters, and the inlet of each first-stage liquid supply branch is connected to the liquid supply main line;

[0051] There are multiple second-stage liquid supply branches, each of which is connected to multiple second-stage liquid supply branches, and each of the second-stage liquid supply branches is connected to the inlet of the liquid cooling plate in a one-to-one correspondence;

[0052] The liquid return pipeline system includes:

[0053] a liquid return trunk line, connected to the inlet of the heat exchange device;

[0054] There are multiple first-stage liquid return branches, each corresponding to the battery clusters, and the outlet of each first-stage liquid return branch is connected to the liquid return main line;

[0055] There are multiple second-stage liquid return branches, each of which is connected to multiple second-stage liquid return branches, and each of the second-stage liquid return branches is connected to the outlet of the liquid cooling plate in a one-to-one correspondence. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0056] In order to more clearly illustrate the specific implementation methods of the utility model or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings required for use in the specific implementation methods or the description of the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some implementation methods of the utility model. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the energy storage system according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0058] Figure 2 This is a partial schematic diagram of the liquid supply piping system and the liquid return piping system of an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0059] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram of an air heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0060] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the enlarged structure of the middle part A;

[0061] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the battery cluster structure of an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0062] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a battery unit according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0063] Figure 7 This is a schematic structural diagram of a frame and an air heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0064] Figure 8 This is a schematic structural diagram of a spray device according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0065] Description of reference numerals:

[0066] 11. Frame; 12. Battery cluster; 121. Battery unit; 122. Control module; 123. Connecting rod; 124. Battery cell; 125. Sprinkler; 13. Air conditioner outdoor unit; 14. Liquid supply piping system; 141. Liquid supply main line; 142. First-stage liquid supply branch line; 143. Second-stage liquid supply branch line; 15. Liquid return piping system; 151. Liquid return main line; 152. First-stage liquid return branch line; 153. Second-stage liquid return branch line; 161. Fire protection pipeline; 162. One-way valve; 17. Drive pump; 181. First pipeline; 182. First control valve; 183. Second pipeline; 184. Second control valve; 19. Air heat exchanger; 191. Roller; 20. Voltage stabilizer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the embodiments described are part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without making creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0068] like Figures 1 to 8 As shown, the battery cluster 12 provided in this embodiment of the present invention includes a control module 122 and multiple battery cells 121. The battery cells 121 comprise a housing, a cell 124, and a liquid cooling plate. The housing has a housing within which multiple cells 124 are located. Cells 124 are the smallest charge and discharge units.

[0069] A liquid cooling plate is positioned within the cavity, with multiple battery cells 124 in contact with the plate. Coolant channels are provided within the plate for circulating battery coolant. Specifically, multiple battery cells 124 can be laid flat on the surface of the plate, which can be made of a metal plate such as aluminum or copper.

[0070] The control module 122 and the plurality of battery cells 121 are stacked along the second direction, and the control module 122 and the plurality of battery cells 121 are connected to form the battery cluster 12. In some embodiments, the battery cell 121 may be composed of a rectangular shell and a plurality of battery cells 124 arranged within the shell. The control module 122 may also include a rectangular shell and a controller and electronic components disposed within the shell. The plurality of battery cells 121 and the control module 122 are directly stacked together to form the battery cluster 12. This battery cluster 12 structure can efficiently utilize space and improve energy density.

[0071] When the battery cluster 12 provided in this embodiment is used in an energy storage system, the battery cluster 12 can be directly connected to the frame 11 of the energy storage system, without having to place the battery cells 121 and the control module 122 in the housing and then install them in the accommodating cavity formed by the partition in the box. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the housings of multiple battery cells 121 are stacked together. After the battery cluster 12 is fixed to the frame, the housings of the multiple battery cells 121 together constitute the housing of the battery cluster 12, that is, the outer shell of the energy storage system. There is no need to set up a separate box for the energy storage system. It is only necessary to set up the frame 11 and connect the battery cluster 12. The battery cluster 12 provided in this embodiment has a simple structure and low cost, further improving the packing density and energy density of the energy storage system.

[0072] In a further embodiment, the control module 122 and the multiple battery cells 121 are provided with corresponding first connecting holes, and the corresponding first connecting holes are inserted with connecting rods 123. The two ends of the connecting rods 123 extend from the control module 122 and the battery cells 121, and the extended parts are used to connect to the frame 11 of the energy storage system.

[0073] Specifically, the connecting rod 123 may have threaded structures at both ends. The connecting rod 123 sequentially passes through the control module 122 and the plurality of battery cells 121 along the second direction, and both ends of the connecting rod 123 along the second direction extend out of the first connection hole. A pair of side frames of the energy storage system frame 11 are provided with second connection holes, and the ends of the connecting rod 123 are connected to the second connection holes.

[0074] For example, each of the multiple battery cells 121 in the battery cluster 12 is provided with two or three pairs of first connection holes, and the frame 11 is provided with second connection holes corresponding in number and position to the first connection holes. The connecting rods 123 are inserted into the multiple first connection holes, connecting the multiple battery cells 121 in series. The ends of the screws pass through the second connection holes of the frame 11 and are fixed to the frame 11 via nuts.

[0075] Such a setting achieves a tight connection of the battery cells 121. Compared with the related art in which the battery cells 121 are placed separately in the respective accommodating cavities of the box, the energy storage system provided in this embodiment can accommodate more battery cells 121, and the fixing method of the battery cells 121 is simple and reliable.

[0076] The embodiment of the present utility model further provides an energy storage system, including a frame 11, a battery pack, a cooling pipe system and a heat exchange device.

[0077] The frame 11 may be configured as a rectangular parallelepiped frame 11 composed of a plurality of metal frames, and the interior of the frame 11 provides installation space for the battery pack, the cooling pipe system, and the heat exchange device.

[0078] The battery pack includes a plurality of battery clusters 12 arranged in a frame 11. The plurality of battery clusters 12 are arranged along a first direction. Each battery cluster 12 includes a control module 122 and a plurality of battery cells 121 stacked along a second direction. The battery cells 121 are provided with a liquid cooling plate, and a cooling liquid channel is provided inside the liquid cooling plate.

[0079] In some embodiments, there may be five battery clusters 12, which are closely arranged along a first direction. Each battery cluster 12 includes a plurality of battery cells 121 and a control module 122, which are stacked along a second direction. The first direction and the second direction may be perpendicular to each other.

[0080] The cooling pipeline system includes a liquid supply pipeline system 14 and a liquid return pipeline system 15. The liquid supply pipeline system 14 is used to transport cooling liquid to the liquid cooling plate, and the liquid return pipeline system 15 is used to output the cooling liquid in the liquid cooling plate.

[0081] The inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the outlet of the return piping system 15, which in turn is connected to the inlet of the supply piping system 14. The outlet of the supply piping system 14 is connected to the inlets of the various coolant channels, and the inlet of the return piping system 15 is connected to the outlets of the various coolant channels. This arrangement forms a closed coolant circulation path for the heat exchanger, supply piping system 14, liquid cooling plate, and return piping system 15.

[0082] The battery pack of the energy storage system provided in this embodiment has a plurality of battery clusters 12, and each battery cluster 12 includes a plurality of stacked battery cells 121, and has a high energy storage density. When the energy storage system is working, the liquid supply pipeline system 14 transports the coolant to the battery cells 121. After the coolant exchanges heat with the battery cells 121, it is transported to the heat exchange device by the liquid return pipeline system 15, and the coolant exchanges heat and cools down in the heat exchange device. The cooled coolant enters the liquid supply pipeline system 14, and is then transported by the liquid supply pipeline system 14 to the battery cells 121 for heat exchange, and the cycle continues. The energy storage system provided in this embodiment can quickly cool the battery pack, avoiding the problem of temperature accumulation in the battery pack, which may lead to combustion or even explosion.

[0083] In a further embodiment, each battery cluster 12 is removably mounted within the frame 11, and the battery cluster 12 is also connected to the liquid supply piping system 14 and the liquid return piping system 15 via respective pipe joints. With this arrangement, the energy storage system provided in this embodiment can select the number of battery clusters 12 to be installed based on actual needs. For example, the frame 11 may have reserved mounting locations for five battery clusters 12. When the energy storage system is used in a scenario with low power demand, only 1-3 battery clusters 12 may be installed within the frame 11. When the energy storage system is used in a scenario with high power demand, 4-5 battery clusters 12 may be installed within the frame 11.

[0084] In a further embodiment, the energy storage system includes an air conditioner outdoor unit 13, which is disposed within the frame 11. Specifically, the energy storage system integrates the air conditioner outdoor unit 13 and the battery pack within the frame 11. The air conditioner outdoor unit 13 includes a refrigerant heat exchanger, which is used to exchange heat with the refrigerant within the air conditioner. In this embodiment, the refrigerant heat exchanger constitutes the heat exchange device.

[0085] In this embodiment, when the air conditioner is in heating mode, the refrigerant in the refrigerant heat exchanger can exchange heat with the battery coolant. The refrigerant can quickly absorb the heat from the battery coolant, causing the battery coolant to cool down. In some embodiments, the refrigerant heat exchanger may include a refrigerant coil and a water tank, wherein the refrigerant coil is disposed in the water tank. After the battery coolant enters the water tank, it exchanges heat with the refrigerant coil and is then discharged from the water tank. Alternatively, the refrigerant heat exchanger may include a refrigerant coil and a coolant coil, wherein the coolant coil and the refrigerant coil are in staggered contact. After the coolant enters the coolant coil, it exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the refrigerant coil and is then discharged from the coolant coil.

[0086] In a further embodiment, the energy storage system further includes an air heat exchanger 19, a first control valve 182, and a second control valve 184. The inlet of the air heat exchanger 19 is connected to the return liquid pipeline system 15 via a first pipeline 181, and the outlet of the air heat exchanger 19 is connected to the supply liquid pipeline system 14 via a second pipeline 183. The air heat exchanger 19 is used to exchange heat between the battery coolant and the outside air. The first control valve 182 is used to control the flow of air heat exchanger 19 between the supply liquid pipeline system 14 and the return liquid pipeline system 15. The second control valve 184 is used to control the flow of refrigerant heat exchanger between the supply liquid pipeline system 14 and the return liquid pipeline system 15.

[0087] Air heat exchanger 19 and the refrigerant heat exchanger are arranged in parallel within the coolant circulation path, together forming the heat exchange device of the energy storage system. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first control valve 182 and the second control valve 184 are controlled to select whether the coolant flows through the air heat exchanger 19 or the refrigerant heat exchanger.

[0088] With this arrangement, when the energy storage system is operating, if the temperature of the external environment exceeds the set temperature, the first control valve 182 can be closed and the second control valve 184 can be opened, allowing the coolant to enter the refrigerant heat exchanger for heat exchange with the refrigerant of the air conditioner. When the temperature of the external environment is lower than the set temperature, the first control valve 182 can be opened and the second control valve 184 can be closed, allowing the coolant to enter the air heat exchanger 19, where the coolant can exchange heat with the external air. Therefore, the further solution provided by this embodiment can control the heat exchange between the coolant and the refrigerant heat exchanger or the air heat exchanger 19 according to the external temperature conditions, thereby optimizing the heat exchange method and reducing energy consumption.

[0089] In a further embodiment, the air conditioner outdoor unit 13 includes a fan, which, under normal conditions, drives airflow toward the refrigerant heat exchanger for heat dissipation. The air heat exchanger 19 is switchable between a first position and a second position on the frame 11. In the first position, the air heat exchanger 19 aligns with the air outlet of the air conditioner outdoor unit 13, allowing the fan to drive airflow toward the air heat exchanger 19. In the second position, the air heat exchanger 19 avoids the air outlet of the air conditioner outdoor unit 13.

[0090] Specifically, a slide groove can be provided on the frame 11, and a roller 191 can be provided on the air heat exchanger 19, and the roller 191 cooperates with the slide groove. The air heat exchanger 19 is pushed to slide along the slide groove so that the air heat exchanger 19 can switch between the first position and the second position. The shell of the air conditioner outdoor unit 13 is provided with an air outlet. When the air heat exchanger 19 is moved to the first position, the air exhausted by the air conditioner outdoor unit 13 can flow through the air heat exchanger 19, thereby accelerating the heat dissipation of the air heat exchanger 19. When the air heat exchanger 19 is not needed for heat dissipation, the air heat exchanger 19 can be moved to the second position to avoid obstruction to the exhaust of the air conditioner outdoor unit 13.

[0091] In other embodiments, the heat exchange device of the energy storage system may also include only the air heat exchanger 19. The air heat exchanger 19 can realize heat dissipation between the coolant and the outside air, which can also have the effect of reducing the temperature of the coolant.

[0092] In a further embodiment, the energy storage system further includes a firefighting pipeline 161 and a sprinkler 125. The first end of the firefighting pipeline 161 is connected to external firefighting facilities, and the second end is connected to the liquid supply pipeline system 14 or the liquid return pipeline system 15. A valve device is provided on the firefighting pipeline 161. It should be noted that external firefighting facilities refer to firefighting facilities outside the energy storage system, such as fire hydrants in a factory.

[0093] The spray device 125 is disposed in each battery cell 121 . The spray device 125 is connected to the liquid supply pipeline system 14 . The spray device 125 is adapted to be turned on when the temperature reaches a set temperature.

[0094] When high temperatures or combustion occur within the battery cell 121, the sprinkler device 125 is activated. Simultaneously, the valve device opens, connecting the external firefighting equipment to the liquid supply piping system 14 or the liquid return piping system 15. Water is continuously supplied to the liquid supply piping system 14 or the liquid return piping system 15, and is continuously sprayed out by the sprinkler device 125. This arrangement allows water to be continuously sprayed onto the battery cell 121 that is experiencing high temperatures or combustion, thereby cooling it.

[0095] This embodiment integrates the fire protection system of the energy storage system with the battery cooling piping system. Fire protection functions of the energy storage system can be realized by simply installing a fire protection pipe 161 and a valve device in the battery cooling piping system that connects to external fire protection facilities. This eliminates the need for a separate fire protection system in the energy storage system, effectively simplifying the piping structure of the energy storage system.

[0096] In a further embodiment, the valve assembly is configured as a one-way valve 162, which is adapted to open when the difference between the internal pressure at the first end and the internal pressure at the second end exceeds a threshold. Specifically, when the difference between the water supply pressure from the external firefighting equipment and the pressure of the battery coolant exceeds the threshold, the one-way valve 162 opens.

[0097] Specifically, when sprinkler 125 starts spraying, the battery coolant is sprayed out by sprinkler 125, and the battery coolant pressure drops significantly. At this point, the difference between the water pressure of the external firefighting equipment and the battery coolant pressure exceeds a threshold, causing one-way valve 162 to open, supplying water to sprinkler 125.

[0098] With such a configuration, the one-way valve 162 can realize automatic water supply to the external fire-fighting facilities, and can prevent the battery coolant from flowing back into the external fire-fighting facilities, resulting in the problem of battery coolant loss.

[0099] In a further embodiment, the spray device 125 includes a showerhead body and a plug. The showerhead body has a spray port through which water is ejected. Under normal conditions, the plug seals the spray port of the showerhead body and is configured to melt at a set temperature. The plug can be made of a metal or polymer material with a low melting point, such as lead, tin, or gallium, or a polymer material such as a thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic.

[0100] When high temperatures or combustion occur within battery cell 121, the plug quickly melts, automatically opening the nozzles in the sprinkler head body and spraying water to cool the battery, reducing the pressure of the battery coolant. At this point, the difference between the water pressure from the external firefighting equipment and the pressure of the battery coolant exceeds a threshold, causing one-way valve 162 to open and supply water to sprinkler 125. Compared to electronically controlled sprinkler opening, this embodiment utilizes a purely mechanical mechanism to automatically control sprinkler opening, avoiding electronic failure due to high temperatures or combustion, and significantly improving reliability.

[0101] In some embodiments, the liquid supply piping system 14 includes a liquid supply trunk 141, first-stage liquid supply branches 142, and second-stage liquid supply branches 143. The liquid supply trunk 141 is connected to the outlet of the refrigerant heat exchanger. Multiple first-stage liquid supply branches 142 are provided, corresponding one-to-one with multiple battery clusters 12. The inlet of each first-stage liquid supply branch 142 is connected to the liquid supply trunk 141. Multiple second-stage liquid supply branches 143 are provided, each of which is connected to multiple second-stage liquid supply branches 143. Each second-stage liquid supply branch 143 is connected one-to-one with the inlet of the liquid cooling plate.

[0102] With this arrangement, the coolant is directed from the liquid supply main line 141 to each first-stage liquid supply branch 142 . Each first-stage liquid supply branch 142 is arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with each battery cluster 12 . The coolant enters and flows through each first-stage liquid supply branch 142 to each battery cluster 12 . Thereafter, the coolant is directed by the second-stage liquid supply branch 143 to each liquid cooling plate for heat exchange with the battery cell 121 .

[0103] The liquid return piping system 15 includes a liquid return main line 151, first-stage liquid return branches 152, and second-stage liquid return branches 153. The liquid return main line 151 is connected to the inlet of the refrigerant heat exchanger; multiple first-stage liquid return branches 152 are provided, each corresponding to a plurality of battery clusters 12, and the outlet of each first-stage liquid return branch 152 is connected to the liquid return main line 151; multiple second-stage liquid return branches 153 are provided, each first-stage liquid return branch 152 is connected to multiple second-stage liquid return branches 153, and each second-stage liquid return branch 153 is connected to the outlet of the liquid cooling plate in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0104] After exchanging heat with the battery cells 121, the coolant in the liquid cold plate flows into the second-stage liquid return branch 153. The coolant in each second-stage liquid return branch 153 then flows back to the first-stage liquid return branch 152. Finally, the coolant in each first-stage liquid return branch 152 flows back to the liquid return trunk 151. The coolant in the liquid return trunk 151 enters the refrigerant heat exchanger or air heat exchanger 19 for heat exchange and cooling before flowing out to the liquid supply trunk 141, repeating the cycle.

[0105] In a further embodiment, to accelerate the circulation of the coolant and improve the cooling efficiency of the battery cells 121, a drive pump 17 for driving the circulation of the coolant is provided on the liquid supply trunk line 141 or the liquid return trunk line 151. The drive pump 17 is used to drive the coolant to circulate rapidly within the coolant circulation piping system, thereby increasing the heat exchange efficiency and preventing the battery cells 121 from accumulating excessive temperatures.

[0106] In a further embodiment, the liquid supply trunk line 141 or the liquid return trunk line 151 is provided with a pressure regulator 20. The pressure regulator 20 can be specifically a diaphragm pressure regulator 20, which is connected to the liquid supply trunk line 141 or the liquid return trunk line 151. When the coolant pressure in the liquid supply trunk line 141 or the liquid return trunk line 151 is high, the diaphragm pressure regulator 20 can absorb the coolant in the liquid supply trunk line 141 or the liquid return trunk line 151 to prevent damage to the pipeline caused by excessive pressure. When the pressure in the liquid supply trunk line 141 or the liquid return trunk line 151 is low, the diaphragm pressure regulator 20 can replenish coolant to the liquid supply trunk line 141 or the liquid return trunk line 151 to ensure sufficient coolant pressure for flow.

[0107] In a further embodiment, the control module 122 of the battery cluster 12 is disposed at an end of the battery cluster 12 along the second direction. Heat exchange tubes are disposed within the control module 122 and communicate with the liquid supply piping system 14 and the liquid return piping system 15. With this arrangement, the liquid supply piping system 14 can direct coolant to the heat exchange tubes within the control module 122, allowing the coolant to exchange heat with the power components within the control module 122, thereby cooling the power components. The coolant, after heat exchange, is then directed back through the liquid return piping system 15.

[0108] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art may make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications and variations shall fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A battery cluster, characterized in that: It includes a control module (122) and a plurality of battery cells (121); The battery unit (121) comprises: The housing is provided with a receiving cavity; A plurality of battery cells (124) are arranged in the accommodating cavity; A liquid cooling plate is arranged in the accommodating cavity, a plurality of the battery cell monomers (124) are in contact with the liquid cooling plate, and a cooling liquid channel for circulating battery cooling liquid is arranged inside the liquid cooling plate; The control module (122) and the plurality of battery cells (121) are stacked along a second direction. The control module (122) and the plurality of battery cells (121) are provided with corresponding first connection holes. Connecting rods (123) are inserted into the corresponding first connection holes. Both ends of the connecting rods (123) extend from the control module (122) and the battery cells (121), and the extended portions are used to be connected to a frame (11) of an energy storage system. The control module (122) and the plurality of battery cells (121) are connected via the connecting rods (123) to form the battery cluster (12).

2. An energy storage system, characterized in that: include: Framework (11); A battery pack comprising a plurality of battery clusters (12) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of battery clusters (12) are arranged in a first direction within the frame (11); A cooling pipeline system comprises a liquid supply pipeline system (14) and a liquid return pipeline system (15), wherein the outlet of the liquid supply pipeline system (14) is connected to the inlet of each of the cooling liquid channels, and the inlet of the liquid return pipeline system (15) is connected to the outlet of each of the cooling liquid channels; A heat exchange device is arranged on the frame (11), the inlet of the heat exchange device is connected to the outlet of the return liquid pipeline system (15), and the outlet of the heat exchange device is connected to the inlet of the supply liquid pipeline system (14), and the heat exchange device is used for dissipating heat from the battery coolant.

3. The energy storage system according to claim 2, characterized in that: Also includes: An air conditioner outdoor unit (13) is arranged in the frame (11). The air conditioner outdoor unit (13) is provided with a refrigerant heat exchanger, which constitutes the heat exchange device. The refrigerant heat exchanger is used for heat exchange between battery coolant and air conditioner refrigerant.

4. The energy storage system according to claim 3, characterized in that Also includes: An air heat exchanger (19) is arranged on the frame (11), and the air heat exchanger (19) constitutes the heat exchange device. The air heat exchanger (19) is used for heat exchange between battery coolant and external air.

5. The energy storage system according to claim 2, characterized in that: Also includes: An air conditioner outdoor unit (13) is arranged in the frame (11), and the air conditioner outdoor unit (13) is provided with a refrigerant heat exchanger, the inlet of the refrigerant heat exchanger is connected to the outlet of the return liquid pipeline system (15), and the outlet of the refrigerant heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the supply liquid pipeline system (14), and the refrigerant heat exchanger is used for heat exchange between battery coolant and air conditioner refrigerant; An air heat exchanger (19) is provided on the frame (11), wherein the inlet of the air heat exchanger (19) is connected to the liquid return pipeline system (15) via a first pipeline (181), and the outlet of the air heat exchanger (19) is connected to the liquid supply pipeline system (14) via a second pipeline (183). The air heat exchanger (19) is used for heat exchange between battery coolant and outside air. The air heat exchanger (19) and the refrigerant heat exchanger together constitute the heat exchange device; a first control valve (182) for controlling the connection or disconnection between the air heat exchanger (19) and the liquid supply pipeline system (14) and the liquid return pipeline system (15); The second control valve (184) is used to control the connection or disconnection between the refrigerant heat exchanger and the liquid supply pipeline system (14) and the liquid return pipeline system (15).

6. The energy storage system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The air conditioner outdoor unit (13) includes a fan, and the air heat exchanger (19) can be switched between a first position and a second position on the frame (11); When the air heat exchanger (19) is in the first position, the air heat exchanger (19) corresponds to the air outlet of the air conditioner outdoor unit (13), so that the fan can drive the air flow to blow toward the air heat exchanger (19); When the air heat exchanger (19) is in the second position, the air heat exchanger (19) avoids the air outlet of the air conditioner outdoor unit (13).

7. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that: Also includes: a fire-fighting pipeline (161), a first end of which is used to be connected to an external fire-fighting facility, and a second end of which is in communication with the liquid supply pipeline system (14) or the liquid return pipeline system (15); a valve device is provided on the fire-fighting pipeline (161); A spray device (125) is provided in the accommodating cavity of each battery unit (121), the spray device (125) is connected to the liquid supply pipeline system (14), and the spray device (125) is suitable for opening when the temperature reaches a set temperature.

8. The energy storage system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The valve device is configured as a one-way valve (162), which is adapted to open when a difference between an internal pressure at the first end and an internal pressure at the second end is greater than a threshold value.

9. The energy storage system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The spraying device (125) comprises: sprinkler head body; A plug is used to seal the injection port of the shower head body, and the plug is configured to melt under a set temperature condition.

10. The energy storage system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The liquid supply pipeline system (14) comprises: a liquid supply trunk line (141) communicating with the outlet of the heat exchange device; A plurality of first-stage liquid supply branches (142) are provided, wherein the plurality of first-stage liquid supply branches (142) are provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of battery clusters (12), and the inlet of each first-stage liquid supply branch (142) is connected to the liquid supply main circuit (141); The second-stage liquid supply branch (143) is provided in plurality, each of the first-stage liquid supply branch (142) is connected to a plurality of the second-stage liquid supply branches (143), and each of the second-stage liquid supply branches (143) is connected to the inlet of the liquid cooling plate in a one-to-one correspondence; The liquid return pipeline system (15) comprises: a liquid return trunk line (151) communicating with the inlet of the heat exchange device; A plurality of first-stage liquid return branches (152) are provided, wherein the plurality of first-stage liquid return branches (152) are provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of battery clusters (12), and the outlet of each first-stage liquid return branch (152) is connected to the liquid return main line (151); The second-stage liquid return branch (153) is provided in plurality, each of the first-stage liquid return branch (152) is connected to a plurality of the second-stage liquid return branches (153), and each of the second-stage liquid return branches (153) is connected to the outlet of the liquid cooling plate in a one-to-one correspondence.

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