Thermal management system and vehicle
By combining the control of three-way valves, four-way valves and throttle valves, multi-mode switching of the thermal management system is realized, which solves the problems of complex structure and high cost of existing systems and improves user experience and functional applicability.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202520100099.6
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-01-15
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-25
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-01-15
AI Technical Summary
Existing thermal management systems are complex and costly, making it difficult to switch between multiple modes to meet different user needs.
By employing a three-way valve, a four-way valve, and at least one throttling valve, different heat exchange circuits are formed through selective control, enabling switching between cooling mode, first heat pump mode, second heat pump mode, and dehumidification mode.
It enables multi-mode switching, reduces system complexity and cost, improves user experience, and meets different needs.
Smart Images
Figure CN223590503U_ABST
Abstract
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of thermal management, in particular to a thermal management system and a vehicle. BACKGROUND
[0002] With the rapid development of industry and people's demand for low energy consumption, high efficiency and environmental protection, thermal management technology is also constantly innovating and developing. In the field of vehicles, electronic devices, energy storage and industrial fields, thermal management systems are extremely important. The structure and arrangement of the thermal management system of the related art are complex and costly. CONTENT OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present application provides an improved thermal management system and a vehicle.
[0004] The present application provides a thermal management system, comprising a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a third heat exchanger and a valve assembly; the valve assembly comprises a three-way valve, a four-way valve and at least one throttle valve; wherein the thermal management system comprises at least a refrigeration mode, a first heat pump mode, a second heat pump mode; the three-way valve, the four-way valve and the at least one throttle valve are selectively controlled, in communication with the compressor and at least two heat exchangers of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger, and form different heat exchange circuits, so that the thermal management system switches between the refrigeration mode, the first heat pump mode and the second heat pump mode.
[0005] Preferably, the at least one throttle valve comprises a first throttle valve and a second throttle valve; the three-way valve comprises a first communication port, a second communication port and a third communication port; the four-way valve comprises a fourth communication port, a fifth communication port, a sixth communication port and a seventh communication port; the three-way valve, the four-way valve and the at least one throttle valve are selectively controlled, at least one of the first throttle valve and the second throttle valve is controlled to be on or off, at least two of the first communication port, the second communication port and the third communication port are controlled to be in communication or disconnected, and at least two of the fourth communication port, the fifth communication port, the sixth communication port and the seventh communication port are controlled to be in communication or disconnected, in communication with the compressor and at least two heat exchangers of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger, and forming different heat exchange circuits, so that the thermal management system switches between two of the refrigeration mode, the first heat pump mode and the second heat pump mode.
[0006] Preferably, the three-way valve, the four-way valve and the at least one throttling valve are selectively controlled to communicate the second communication port with the third communication port, to communicate the fourth communication port with the fifth communication port, and to conduct the first throttling valve, so as to communicate the outlet of the compressor with the fourth communication port, the fifth communication port, the first heat exchanger, the first throttling valve, the second heat exchanger, the third communication port, the second communication port and the inlet of the compressor, and form a first heat exchange loop, so that the thermal management system is in the refrigeration mode.
[0007] Preferably, the three-way valve, the four-way valve and the at least one throttling valve are selectively controlled to communicate the fourth communication port with the fifth communication port, to communicate the sixth communication port with the seventh communication port, and to conduct the second throttling valve, so as to communicate the outlet of the compressor with the fourth communication port, the fifth communication port, the first heat exchanger, the second throttling valve, the third heat exchanger, the sixth communication port, the seventh communication port and the inlet of the compressor, and form a second heat exchange loop, so that the thermal management system is in the refrigeration mode.
[0008] Preferably, the three-way valve, the four-way valve and the at least one throttling valve are selectively controlled to communicate the first communication port with the third communication port, to communicate the fourth communication port with the fifth communication port, to communicate the sixth communication port with the seventh communication port, and to conduct the first throttling valve and the second throttling valve, so as to communicate the outlet of the compressor with the fourth communication port, the fifth communication port, the first communication port, the third communication port, the second heat exchanger, the first throttling valve, the second throttling valve, the third heat exchanger, the sixth communication port, the seventh communication port and the inlet of the compressor, and form a third heat exchange loop, so that the thermal management system is in the first heat pump mode.
[0009] Preferably, the thermal management system further comprises a battery assembly; when the thermal management system is in the refrigeration mode or the first heat pump mode, the third heat exchanger communicates with the battery assembly, and forms a battery cooling loop, which cools the battery assembly.
[0010] Preferably, the thermal management system further comprises a motor assembly; when the thermal management system is in the first heat pump mode, the third heat exchanger communicates with the motor assembly, and forms a motor cooling loop, which cools the motor assembly.
[0011] Preferably, the three-way valve, the four-way valve and the at least one throttle valve are selectively controlled to make the fourth communication port and the sixth communication port communicate, the fifth communication port and the seventh communication port communicate, and make the second throttle valve conductive, so that the outlet of the compressor communicates with the fourth communication port, the sixth communication port, the third heat exchanger, the first heat exchanger, the fifth communication port, the seventh communication port and the inlet of the compressor, and forms a fourth heat exchange loop, so that the thermal management system is in the second heat pump mode.
[0012] Preferably, the thermal management system further comprises a warm core assembly arranged in the passenger cabin; when the thermal management system is in the second heat pump mode, the third heat exchanger communicates with the warm core assembly, and forms a warm core heating loop, which heats the warm core assembly.
[0013] Preferably, the thermal management system further comprises a dehumidification mode; the three-way valve, the four-way valve and the at least one throttle valve are selectively controlled to make the second communication port and the third communication port communicate, and make the first throttle valve conductive, so that the outlet of the compressor communicates with the fourth communication port, the sixth communication port, the third heat exchanger, the first throttle valve, the second heat exchanger, the third communication port, the second communication port and the inlet of the compressor, and forms a fifth heat exchange loop, so that the thermal management system is in the dehumidification mode.
[0014] The application also provides a vehicle comprising the thermal management system according to any one of the above embodiments.
[0015] The thermal management system according to the embodiments of the application comprises a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a third heat exchanger and a valve assembly. The valve assembly is provided with a three-way valve, a four-way valve and at least one throttle valve, which are selectively controlled to respectively communicate with the compressor, the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger and the third heat exchanger, and form different heat exchange loops, so that the thermal management system can be switched between the refrigeration mode, the first heat pump mode and the second heat pump mode. The thermal management system according to the application can realize switching between multiple modes by using fewer valve assemblies, meet different needs of users, and has a simple system structure and arrangement and low cost.
[0016] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are only exemplary and explanatory, and cannot limit the application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0017] The drawings incorporated into the specification and forming part of the specification, show embodiments consistent with the application, and together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of the application.
[0018] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the thermal management system of this application.
[0019] Figure 2 As shown Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the thermal management system in cooling mode.
[0020] Figure 3 As shown Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of the thermal management system in cooling mode.
[0021] Figure 4 As shown Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the thermal management system in the first heat pump mode.
[0022] Figure 5 As shown Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of the thermal management system in the first heat pump mode.
[0023] Figure 6 As shown Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the thermal management system in the second heat pump mode.
[0024] Figure 7 As shown Figure 1 The thermal management system shown is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of the second heat pump system. Detailed Implementation
[0025] The thermal management system and vehicle provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the features of the various embodiments and implementation methods described below can be combined arbitrarily with each other.
[0026] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the thermal management system 1 of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the thermal management system 1 includes a compressor 11, a first heat exchanger 12, a second heat exchanger 13, a third heat exchanger 14, and a valve assembly 15. In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 12 can be an outdoor heat exchanger, located outdoors. The second heat exchanger 13 can be an indoor heat exchanger, located indoors. For example, the indoor heat exchanger is located in the passenger compartment of a vehicle. The third heat exchanger 14 can be a water-cooled heat exchanger. The valve assembly 15 includes a three-way valve 151, a four-way valve 152, and at least one throttle valve 153. The three-way valve 151, the four-way valve 152, and the throttle valve 153 can all be electrically controlled valves. The opening and closing of the connection ports of the electrically controlled valves are controlled by an external controller and can be selectively controlled to be open or closed. The throttle valve 153 serves to cut off flow, and its opening degree is set according to actual needs and is not limited in this application.
[0027] The heat management system 1 of the embodiment at least includes a refrigeration mode, a first heat pump mode, and a second heat pump mode. In the embodiment, the first heat pump mode can be a direct heat pump mode, which is suitable for a case where the outside temperature is relatively high, for example, the outside temperature is above -10°. The second heat pump mode can be an indirect heat pump mode, which is suitable for a case where the outside temperature is relatively low, for example, the outside temperature is below -10°. The three-way valve 151, the four-way valve 152, and at least one throttling valve 153 are selectively controlled, are in communication with the compressor 11 and at least two of the first heat exchanger 12, the second heat exchanger 13, and the third heat exchanger 14, and form different heat exchange circuits, so that the heat management system 1 is switched between the refrigeration mode, the first heat pump mode, and the second heat pump mode. The heat management system 1 of the embodiment realizes one of the refrigeration mode, the first heat pump mode, and the second heat pump mode through the cooperation of the compressor 11, the first heat exchanger 12, the second heat exchanger 13, the third heat exchanger 14, the three-way valve 151, the four-way valve 152, and the throttling valve 153. For details, please refer to the embodiments shown below. Figures 2 to 7
[0028] The heat management system 1 of the present application can realize switching between multiple modes by using fewer valve assemblies 15, meet different needs of users, improve user demand, and has simple system structure and arrangement and low cost.
[0029] In Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, at least one throttle valve 153 includes a first throttle valve 1531 and a second throttle valve 1532. A three-way valve 151 includes a first connection port 1511, a second connection port 1512, and a third connection port 1513. A four-way valve 152 includes a fourth connection port 1521, a fifth connection port 1522, a sixth connection port 1523, and a seventh connection port 1524. The three-way valve 151, the four-way valve 152, and at least one throttle valve 153 are selectively controlled, such that at least one of the first throttle valve 1531 and the second throttle valve 1532 is controlled to be open or closed, such that two of the first connection port 1511, the second connection port 1512, and the third connection port 1513 are controlled to be connected or closed, and at least two of the fourth connection port 1521, the fifth connection port 1522, the sixth connection port 1523, and the seventh connection port 1524 are controlled to be connected or closed, and connected to the compressor 11 and at least two of the first heat exchanger 12, the second heat exchanger 13, and the third heat exchanger 14, forming different heat exchange circuits, so that the thermal management system 1 switches between two of the following modes: refrigeration mode, first heat pump mode, and second heat pump mode. With this configuration, the thermal management system 1 can switch between multiple modes using fewer valve components, such as a three-way valve 151, a four-way valve 152, and two throttle valves 153, to meet different user needs. Compared to related technologies, it is less expensive. No additional components are required when operating in one of the following modes: cooling mode, first heat pump mode, or second heat pump mode, further reducing costs.
[0030] Figure 2 As shown Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the thermal management system 1 in cooling mode. (In conjunction with...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the three-way valve 151, the four-way valve 152, and at least one throttle valve 153 are selectively controlled to connect the second connection port 1512 with the third connection port 1513, connect the fourth connection port 1521 with the fifth connection port 1522, and open the first throttle valve 1531, so that the outlet 111 of the compressor 11 is connected to the fourth connection port 1521, the fifth connection port 1522, the first heat exchanger 12, the first throttle valve 1531, the second heat exchanger 13, the third connection port 1513, the second connection port 1512, and the inlet 112 of the compressor 11, forming the first heat exchange circuit S1, thereby putting the thermal management system 1 in the cooling mode.
[0031] In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 12 is an outdoor heat exchanger, serving as a condenser. The second heat exchanger 13 is an indoor heat exchanger, serving as an evaporator. The first throttling valve 1531 is open, while the second throttling valve 1532 is closed. The second port 1512 of the three-way valve 151 is connected to the third port 1513. The fourth port 1521 of the four-way valve 152 is connected to the fifth port 1522. Figure 2 As shown by the arrow, when a user needs cooling, the compressor 11 starts, compressing the refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure gas. This high-temperature, high-pressure gas enters the first heat exchanger 12, which acts as a condenser, condensing and dissipating heat from the refrigerant to output a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Next, the liquid refrigerant enters the second heat exchanger 13, which acts as an evaporator, absorbing heat and vaporizing to output a low-temperature, low-pressure gas. Finally, the low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant returns from the second heat exchanger 13 to the compressor 11, completing the refrigeration cycle and thus achieving the cooling function. During this process, when the first heat exchanger 12 acts as a condenser, it condenses and dissipates heat from the refrigerant. A heat dissipation assembly 19 is also provided around the first heat exchanger 12 to dissipate heat. This allows for the use of fewer valve components to achieve a cooling mode, meeting user needs and improving the user experience.
[0032] Figure 3 As shown Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of the thermal management system 1 in cooling mode. (In conjunction with...) Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the three-way valve 151, the four-way valve 152, and at least one throttle valve 153 are selectively controlled, connecting the fourth connection port 1521 to the fifth connection port 1522, and the sixth connection port 1523 to the seventh connection port 1524. The second throttle valve 1532 is also activated, connecting the compressor 11 outlet 111 to the fourth connection port 1521, the fifth connection port 1522, the first heat exchanger 12, the second throttle valve 1532, the third heat exchanger 14, the sixth connection port 1523, the seventh connection port 1524, and the compressor 11 inlet 112, forming a second heat exchange circuit S2. This puts the thermal management system 1 in cooling mode. In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 12 is an outdoor heat exchanger, serving as a condenser. The third heat exchanger 14 is a water-cooled heat exchanger, serving as an evaporator. The second throttle valve 1532 is activated, while the first throttle valve 1531 is deactivated. The first connecting port 1511, the second connecting port 1512, and the third connecting port 1513 of the three-way valve 151 are not connected. The fourth connecting port 1521 of the four-way valve 152 is connected to the fifth connecting port 1522, and the sixth connecting port 1523 is connected to the seventh connecting port 1524. Figure 3 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 2 The embodiments shown are similar, the main difference being that the heat exchanger used as the evaporator is different. Figure 3In the embodiment shown, the third heat exchanger 14 functions as an evaporator. Figure 3 As shown by the arrows, when the user has a cooling demand, the compressor 11 is controlled to start, and the refrigerant medium is compressed into a high-temperature and high-pressure gas. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas enters the first heat exchanger 12, which functions as a condenser to condense and dissipate heat from the refrigerant. Then, the liquid refrigerant enters the third heat exchanger 14, which functions as an evaporator to vaporize the liquid refrigerant by absorbing heat, and outputs low-temperature and low-pressure gas. Finally, the low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant returns to the compressor 11 from the third heat exchanger 14, completing the refrigeration cycle, so that the refrigeration function can be realized. In this way, fewer valve assemblies can be used to realize the refrigeration mode, meet the user's demand, and improve the user experience.
[0033] In Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the thermal management system 1 further includes a battery assembly 16. When the thermal management system 1 is in the refrigeration mode, the third heat exchanger 14 communicates with the battery assembly 16 and forms a battery cooling loop L1 that cools the battery assembly 16. In Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the third heat exchanger 14 is a water-cooled heat exchanger. During the operation of the compressor 11, when the liquid refrigerant passes through the third heat exchanger 14, the third heat exchanger 14 functions as an evaporator, and due to the pressure conditions inside the evaporator and the characteristics of the refrigerant itself, the liquid refrigerant will vaporize by absorbing heat. By controlling the third interface 173 of the multi-way valve 17 to communicate with the fifth interface 175 and the fourth interface 174 to communicate with the second interface 172, the water pipe circuit of the third heat exchanger 14 is connected to the battery assembly 16 and forms a battery cooling loop L1. In the battery cooling loop L1, the low-temperature and low-pressure gaseous refrigerant (vaporized by absorbing heat in the evaporator) will take away the heat generated by the battery assembly 16. The battery assembly 16 generates heat during use or charging, and this heat will be transferred to the refrigerant. The refrigerant flows in the battery cooling loop L1 and continuously takes away the heat of the battery assembly 16, thereby cooling the battery assembly 16 and ensuring that the battery assembly 16 operates within an appropriate temperature range. In this way, fewer valve assemblies are used to not only realize the refrigeration mode but also cool the battery assembly 16, which can effectively prevent the battery assembly 16 from performance degradation, shortened service life, or even safety hazards due to overheating, thereby improving the user experience. Compared with related technologies, the seven-way valve is used to switch the water circuit in this embodiment, the number of water circuit interfaces is reduced, and the cost is reduced.
[0034] Figure 4 The principle block diagram of an embodiment of the thermal management system 1 in the first heat pump mode is shown. Figure 1 The principle block diagram of an embodiment of the thermal management system 1 in the first heat pump mode is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 4As shown, the three-way valve 151, the four-way valve 152, and at least one throttle valve 153 are selectively controlled to connect the first connection port 1511 with the third connection port 1513, the fourth connection port 1521 with the fifth connection port 1522, and the sixth connection port 1523 with the seventh connection port 1524. Furthermore, both the first throttle valve 1531 and the second throttle valve 1532 are open, connecting the compressor 11 outlet 111 with the fourth connection port 1521, the fifth connection port 1522, the first connection port 1511, the third connection port 1513, the second heat exchanger 13, the first throttle valve 1531, the second throttle valve 1532, the third heat exchanger 14, the sixth connection port 1523, the seventh connection port 1524, and the compressor 11 inlet 112, forming a third heat exchange circuit S3. This puts the thermal management system 1 in a first heat pump mode. In this embodiment, the first heat pump mode can be a direct heat pump mode. Direct heat pump mode is suitable for situations with relatively high ambient temperatures, such as above -10°C. The second heat exchanger 13 is an outdoor heat exchanger, acting as a condenser. The third heat exchanger 14 is a water-cooled heat exchanger, acting as an evaporator. Both the first throttling valve 1531 and the second throttling valve 1532 are open. The first port 1511 of the three-way valve 151 is connected to the third port 1513. The fourth port 1521 of the four-way valve 152 is connected to the fifth port 1522, and the sixth port 1523 is connected to the seventh port 1524. For example... Figure 4 As shown by the arrow, when a user has a heating need, the compressor 11 is started, compressing the refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure gas. This high-temperature, high-pressure gas first enters the second heat exchanger 13, which acts as a condenser, condensing and dissipating heat from the refrigerant, releasing heat to the surrounding environment (such as indoor air), thus raising the ambient temperature. The refrigerant changes from a gaseous state to a liquid state, outputting a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Then, it passes through the third heat exchanger 14, which acts as an evaporator, causing the liquid refrigerant to absorb heat and vaporize, outputting a low-temperature, low-pressure gas. Finally, the low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant returns from the third heat exchanger 14 to the compressor 11, completing the heating cycle and achieving a direct heat pump function. This direct heat pump mode can be achieved using fewer valve components. Furthermore, by continuously cycling this process, the thermal management system 1 can sustainably transfer heat from a low-temperature heat source to the indoor environment requiring heating, thus achieving the heating function.
[0035] exist Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, when the thermal management system 1 is in the first heat pump mode, the third heat exchanger 14 is connected to the battery assembly 16 and forms a battery cooling circuit L1, which cools the battery assembly 16. Figure 4 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 3 The embodiments shown share the common feature that the third heat exchanger 14 serves as an evaporator. Similarly, as... Figure 4As shown by the arrows, by controlling the third port 173 of the multi-way valve 17 to communicate with the fifth port 175 and the fourth port 174 to communicate with the second port 172, the water pipe line of the third heat exchanger 14 is communicated with the battery assembly 16, and a battery cooling loop L1 is formed. In the battery cooling loop L1, the low-temperature and low-pressure gaseous refrigerant (vaporized due to heat absorption in the evaporator) can take away the heat generated by the battery assembly 16 to cool the battery assembly 16, so as to ensure that the battery assembly 16 works in a suitable temperature range. On the basis of realizing the direct heat pump mode, the heat generated by the battery assembly 16 can also be effectively taken away by the evaporator to cool the battery assembly 16, effectively prevent the battery assembly 16 from performance degradation, service life shortening and even safety hazards due to overheating, and improve user experience.
[0036] Figure 5 As shown Figure 1 The principle block diagram of another embodiment of the thermal management system 1 in the first heat pump mode is shown. Figure 5 The embodiment shown is similar to Figure 4 The main difference between the embodiment shown and the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is that Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, the thermal management system 1 further includes a motor assembly 18. When the thermal management system 1 is in the first heat pump mode, the third heat exchanger 14 is communicated with the motor assembly 18, and a motor cooling loop L2 is formed to cool the motor assembly 18. Figure 5 The embodiment shown is similar to Figure 4 The same point between the embodiment shown and the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is that the second heat exchanger 13 is used as a condenser, and the third heat exchanger 14 is used as an evaporator. The main difference is that Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, the third heat exchanger 14 is used as an evaporator and is communicated with the motor assembly 18. As shown Figure 5 As shown by the arrows, by controlling the third port 173 of the multi-way valve 17 to communicate with the seventh port 177 and the first port 171 to communicate with the second port 172, the water pipe line of the third heat exchanger 14 is communicated with the motor assembly 18 and a motor cooling loop L2 is formed. In the motor cooling loop L2, the heat absorption characteristic of the refrigerant vaporization is effectively utilized to cool the motor assembly 18. On the basis of realizing the direct heat pump mode, the motor assembly 18 can also be cooled by using fewer valve assemblies, which can effectively prevent the motor assembly 18 from performance degradation, service life shortening and even safety hazards due to overheating, and improve user experience.
[0037] In Figure 4 and Figure 5In the embodiment shown, when the thermal management system 1 is in the first heat pump mode, the battery cooling circuit L1 or the motor cooling circuit L2 can be switched according to the temperature of the battery assembly 16 and the motor assembly 18, so as to realize cooling of one of the battery assembly 16 and the motor assembly 18. The specific switching can be realized by controlling the multi-way valve 17. Compared with the related art, the seven-way valve is used in the embodiment to switch the water circuit, the water circuit interface is reduced, and the cost is reduced. It should be noted that the partial conduction state of the seven-way valve is shown in the present application, but it is not limited thereto. In other modes, it can also be flexibly switched, which will not be described here.
[0038] Figure 6 An embodiment of the principle block diagram of the thermal management system 1 in the second heat pump mode is shown. Figure 1 An embodiment of the principle block diagram of the thermal management system 1 in the second heat pump mode is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, the three-way valve 151, the four-way valve 152 and at least one throttling valve 153 are selectively controlled, so that the fourth communication port 1521 and the sixth communication port 1523 are communicated, the fifth communication port 1522 and the seventh communication port 1524 are communicated, and the second throttling valve 1532 is conducted, so that the outlet 111 of the compressor 11 is communicated with the fourth communication port 1521, the sixth communication port 1523, the third heat exchanger 14, the first heat exchanger 12, the fifth communication port 1522, the seventh communication port 1524 and the inlet 112 of the compressor 11, and a fourth heat exchange circuit S4 is formed, so that the thermal management system 1 is in the second heat pump mode. In the present embodiment, the second heat pump mode can be an indirect heat pump mode. The indirect heat pump mode is suitable for the case that the outside temperature is relatively low, for example, the outside temperature is below-10°. The third heat exchanger 14 is a water-cooled heat exchanger, which is used as a condenser. The first heat exchanger 12 is an outdoor heat exchanger, which is used as an evaporator. The second throttling valve 1532 is conducted, and the first throttling valve 1531 is not conducted. The first communication port 1511, the second communication port 1512 and the third communication port 1513 of the three-way valve 151 are not communicated. The fourth communication port 1521 and the sixth communication port 1523 of the four-way valve 152 are communicated, and the fifth communication port 1522 and the seventh communication port 1524 are communicated. As shown in the figure, Figure 6 As shown by the arrows, when the user has a heating demand, the compressor 11 is controlled to start, and the refrigerant medium is compressed into a high-temperature and high-pressure gas. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas enters the third heat exchanger 14, at this time the third heat exchanger 14 acts as a condenser to condense and dissipate heat of the refrigerant, and outputs high-temperature and high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Then it passes through the first heat exchanger 12, at this time the first heat exchanger 12 acts as an evaporator to heat and vaporize the refrigerant, and outputs low-temperature and low-pressure gas. Finally, the low-temperature and low-pressure gas refrigerant returns from the first heat exchanger 12 to the compressor 11, completes the heating cycle, and realizes the indirect heat pump function. By using fewer valve assemblies, the preheating function can be realized, the efficiency of the heat pump system is improved, and the user experience is improved.
[0039] InFigure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the thermal management system 1 further includes a heating core assembly 20, located within the passenger compartment. When the thermal management system 1 is in the second heat pump mode, the third heat exchanger 14 is connected to the heating core assembly 20, forming a heating core heating circuit L3, which heats the heating core assembly 20. Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the thermal management system 1 operates in indirect heat pump mode. The third heat exchanger 14 is a water-cooled condenser. Since cooling water circulates within the water-cooled condenser, the refrigerant temperature is higher than the cooling water temperature. According to the principle of heat transfer, the refrigerant releases heat to the cooling water for condensation and heat dissipation. During this process, the refrigerant changes from a gaseous state to a liquid state, outputting a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant output by the water-cooled condenser exchanges heat with the water pipes, forming the basis for the heating core circuit L3. During this heat exchange, heat is transferred from the high-temperature liquid refrigerant to the water medium in the water pipes. When the heated water medium connects to the heating core component 20 through the heating core circuit L3, the heat from the water medium is transferred to the heating core component 20, thus heating it. By implementing the indirect heat pump mode and utilizing fewer valve components, the heating core component 20 can be heated, improving the user experience.
[0040] Figure 7 As shown Figure 1 The thermal management system 1 shown is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of the second heat pump system. Figure 7 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 6 The embodiments shown are similar, the main difference being that, Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the thermal management system 1 further includes a dehumidification mode. A three-way valve 151, a four-way valve 152, and at least one throttle valve 153 are selectively controlled, and a second connection port 1512 is connected to a third connection port 1513, and a first throttle valve 1531 is opened, so that the outlet 111 of the compressor 11 is connected to a fourth connection port 1521, a sixth connection port 1523, a third heat exchanger 14, a first throttle valve 1531, a second heat exchanger 13, a third connection port 1513, a second connection port 1512, and the inlet 112 of the compressor 11, forming a fifth heat exchange circuit S5, thereby putting the thermal management system 1 into a dehumidification mode. Figure 7 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 6 The illustrated embodiments are similar, with the common point being that the third heat exchanger 14 is always a condenser, and the first heat exchanger 12 is always an evaporator. The main difference is that... Figure 7In the illustrated embodiment, a dehumidification mode is also added. When the user has a dehumidification need, the first throttling valve 1531 is opened, connecting the second heat exchanger 13 to the third heat exchanger 14 and the compressor 11 respectively, forming a fifth heat exchange circuit S5. At this time, both the first throttling valve 1531 and the second throttling valve 1532 are open. The second port 1512 of the three-way valve 151 is connected to the third port 1513. The fourth port 1521 of the four-way valve 152 is connected to the sixth port 1523, and the fifth port 1522 is connected to the seventh port 1524. Figure 7 As shown by the arrows, when the user has heating and dehumidification needs, the compressor 11 is started, compressing the refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure gas. This high-temperature, high-pressure gas first enters the third heat exchanger 14, where it acts as a condenser, condensing and dissipating heat from the refrigerant, outputting a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Then, it circulates in two paths. One path passes through the first heat exchanger 12, where it acts as an evaporator, causing the liquid refrigerant to absorb heat and vaporize, outputting a low-temperature, low-pressure gas. Finally, the low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant returns from the first heat exchanger 12 to the compressor 11, completing the heating cycle and achieving the indirect heat pump function. This part of the cycle is similar to... Figure 6 The cyclic process shown in the example is similar.
[0041] Another path leads to the second heat exchanger 13, which also functions as an evaporator. When the refrigerant enters the second heat exchanger 13, its surface temperature decreases as it absorbs heat. At this time, air containing water vapor (such as indoor air) flows across the surface of the second heat exchanger 13. Since the air temperature decreases with contact with the low-temperature surface of the second heat exchanger 13, the water vapor in the air reaches saturation when the air temperature drops below the dew point temperature. Based on the physical properties of water vapor, the saturated water vapor begins to condense into small water droplets. These droplets adhere to the surface of the second heat exchanger 13 or nearby flow guide structures. For example, during dehumidification, water droplets appear on the fins of the second heat exchanger 13; this is the result of water vapor condensation in the air. A drain trough or drain pipe is provided at the bottom or around the second heat exchanger 13. The small water droplets condensed on the heat exchanger surface collect in the drain trough or drain pipe under gravity. The drainage pipes direct this condensate outdoors or into a dedicated drainage container, removing moisture from the air or achieving dehumidification. However, the air temperature is low after dehumidification. To achieve a comfortable indoor environment, a heating circuit L3 is used to heat the heating element 20, reheating the dehumidified air and enhancing the dehumidification effect. Simultaneously, for continuous dehumidification, in... Figure 7In the illustrated embodiment, one side of the second heat exchanger 13 is further provided with an air circulation member 21. The air circulation member 21 is used to continuously transport indoor air to the second heat exchanger 13 for dehumidification treatment, and then send the treated air back to the indoor environment. In this way, the humidity of the indoor air is continuously reduced, thereby achieving the desired humidity effect. In this way, different modes can be selected according to user needs to improve user experience.
[0042] In the above Figures 2 to 7 In the illustrated scheme, by setting fewer valve assemblies, for example, one three-way valve 151, one four-way valve 152 and two throttling valves 153, the switching between multiple modes can be achieved, thereby determining whether the first heat exchanger 12, the second heat exchanger 13 and the third heat exchanger 14 in the system are condensers or evaporators. For example, by controlling the four-way valve 152, it can be determined which part of the system is a condenser and which part is an evaporator. When the four-way valve 152 is switched to one of the modes, the exhaust gas of the compressor 11 passes through the outdoor heat exchanger, at which time the outdoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser and the indoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator. When the four-way valve 152 is switched to the other mode, the exhaust gas of the compressor 11 first passes through the indoor heat exchanger, at which time the indoor heat exchanger acts as a condenser, and then passes through the second throttling valve 1532 to be cut off, and then passes through the outdoor heat exchanger to absorb heat, at which time the outdoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator. In this way, the first heat exchanger 12, the second heat exchanger 13 and the third heat exchanger 14 can not only act as condensers, but also act as evaporators in different modes. In particular, for the third heat exchanger 14, not only can it act as a condenser, but also can act as an evaporator. When the third heat exchanger 14 acts as an evaporator, not only can it cool the battery assembly 16, but also can cool the motor assembly 18. When the third heat exchanger 14 acts as a condenser, it can heat the warm core assembly 20. In the present embodiment, the third heat exchanger 14 can be a plate heat exchanger. The plate heat exchanger can simultaneously have the functions of a condenser and an evaporator. Through the two throttling valves 153 with bidirectional flow and large diameter, when the plate heat exchanger is in normal flow, it acts as a condenser and releases heat to the warm air assembly 20, and then is cut off by the second throttling valve 1532 to absorb heat in the outdoor heat exchanger. When the plate heat exchanger needs to act as an evaporator, the four-way valve 152 first passes through the evaporator, at which time the evaporator releases heat, and then passes through the full-diameter first throttling valve 1531, and then passes through the second throttling valve 1532 to cut off to the plate heat exchanger to absorb heat, at which time the plate heat exchanger acts as an evaporator. In this way, by using fewer valve assemblies, flexible switching between different modes is achieved, the functions and application range are enriched, and the different needs of users are met. Moreover, the number of valve assemblies 15 is small, the control logic is simple, no additional components are needed, and the cost is reduced.
[0043] It should be noted that, in Figures 2 to 7 In the illustrated embodiment, different colors of arrows are used to indicate the circulation direction between different media for ease of distinction.Figures 2 to 7 In the illustrated drawings, the circulation direction of the refrigerant is indicated by red arrows, and the circulation direction of the water path is indicated by blue arrows, which will not be described herein again.
[0044] The application also provides a vehicle comprising the thermal management system 1 according to any one of the above embodiments. The vehicle is provided by arranging the above Figures 1 to 7 The thermal management system 1 according to the embodiments can meet different needs of users, and has simple structure and low cost.
[0045] It should be understood that the application is not limited to the precise construction which has been described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope thereof. The scope of the application is limited only by the claims that follow.
Claims
1. A thermal management system, characterized in that, The system includes a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a third heat exchanger, and a valve assembly; the valve assembly includes a three-way valve, a four-way valve, and at least one throttle valve; wherein the thermal management system includes at least a cooling mode, a first heat pump mode, and a second heat pump mode; the three-way valve, the four-way valve, and the at least one throttle valve are selectively controlled to communicate with the compressor and at least two of the first, second, and third heat exchangers, forming different heat exchange circuits, thereby allowing the thermal management system to switch between the cooling mode, the first heat pump mode, and the second heat pump mode.
2. The thermal management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one throttling valve includes a first throttling valve and a second throttling valve; the three-way valve includes a first connecting port, a second connecting port, and a third connecting port; the four-way valve includes a fourth connecting port, a fifth connecting port, a sixth connecting port, and a seventh connecting port; the three-way valve, the four-way valve, and the at least one throttling valve are selectively controlled such that at least one of the first throttling valve and the second throttling valve is controlled to be open or closed, two of the first connecting port, the second connecting port, and the third connecting port are controlled to be connected or closed, and at least two of the fourth connecting port, the fifth connecting port, the sixth connecting port, and the seventh connecting port are controlled to be connected or closed, connecting with the compressor and at least two of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the third heat exchanger, forming different heat exchange circuits, allowing the thermal management system to switch between two of the cooling mode, the first heat pump mode, and the second heat pump mode.
3. The thermal management system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The three-way valve, the four-way valve, and the at least one throttle valve are selectively controlled to connect the second connection port with the third connection port, connect the fourth connection port with the fifth connection port, and open the first throttle valve so that the outlet of the compressor is connected to the fourth connection port, the fifth connection port, the first heat exchanger, the first throttle valve, the second heat exchanger, the third connection port, the second connection port, and the inlet of the compressor, forming a first heat exchange circuit, thereby putting the thermal management system in the cooling mode.
4. The thermal management system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The three-way valve, the four-way valve, and the at least one throttle valve are selectively controlled to connect the fourth connection port with the fifth connection port, the sixth connection port with the seventh connection port, and to open the second throttle valve, so that the outlet of the compressor is connected to the fourth connection port, the fifth connection port, the first heat exchanger, the second throttle valve, the third heat exchanger, the sixth connection port, the seventh connection port, and the inlet of the compressor, forming a second heat exchange circuit, thereby putting the thermal management system in the cooling mode.
5. The thermal management system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The three-way valve, the four-way valve, and the at least one throttling valve are selectively controlled to connect the first connection port to the third connection port, the fourth connection port to the fifth connection port, and the sixth connection port to the seventh connection port. Both the first and second throttling valves are also turned on, so that the compressor outlet is connected to the fourth, fifth, first, and third connection ports, the second heat exchanger, the first and second throttling valves, the third heat exchanger, the sixth and seventh connection ports, and the compressor inlet, forming a third heat exchange circuit. This puts the thermal management system in the first heat pump mode.
6. The thermal management system according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The thermal management system further includes a battery assembly; when the thermal management system is in the cooling mode or the first heat pump mode, the third heat exchanger is connected to the battery assembly and forms a battery cooling circuit, which cools the battery assembly.
7. The thermal management system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The thermal management system further includes a motor assembly; when the thermal management system is in the first heat pump mode, the third heat exchanger is connected to the motor assembly and forms a motor cooling circuit, which cools the motor assembly.
8. The thermal management system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The three-way valve, the four-way valve, and the at least one throttle valve are selectively controlled to connect the fourth connection port to the sixth connection port, the fifth connection port to the seventh connection port, and to open the second throttle valve so that the outlet of the compressor is connected to the fourth connection port, the sixth connection port, the third heat exchanger, the first heat exchanger, the fifth connection port, the seventh connection port, and the inlet of the compressor, forming a fourth heat exchange circuit, thereby putting the thermal management system in the second heat pump mode.
9. The thermal management system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The thermal management system also includes a heating core assembly located within the passenger compartment; when the thermal management system is in the second heat pump mode, the third heat exchanger is connected to the heating core assembly, forming a heating core heating circuit, which heats the heating core assembly; and / or The thermal management system further includes a dehumidification mode; the three-way valve, the four-way valve, and the at least one throttling valve are selectively controlled, and the second connection port is connected to the third connection port, and the first throttling valve is opened, so that the outlet of the compressor is connected to the fourth connection port, the sixth connection port, the third heat exchanger, the first throttling valve, the second heat exchanger, the third connection port, the second connection port, and the inlet of the compressor, forming a fifth heat exchange circuit, thereby putting the thermal management system in the dehumidification mode.
10. A vehicle, characterized in that, The thermal management system includes any one of claims 1 to 9.