Energy storage box and flow equalizing and liquid separating structure for energy storage device

Abstract

The utility model relates to an energy storage box and a flow-equalizing and liquid-separating structure for refrigerant liquid feeding of the energy storage box, the flow-equalizing and liquid-separating structure introduces a refrigerant from the outside of the energy storage box and disperses the refrigerant to the periphery of the energy storage box through the cooperation of a main liquid inlet flow channel and a plurality of secondary liquid inlet flow channels, and then the refrigerant is matched with a plurality of liquid-separating outlets in branch flow channels, so that the refrigerant is separated from the energy storage box. By means of the design, the requirement for multi-hole flow equalization is simplified into the requirement for flow equalization of a small number of holes, the flow equalization difficulty is reduced, then flow resistance equalization of different liquid outlet holes can be rapidly and simply achieved, the heat dissipation difference, caused by uneven refrigerant distribution, of the battery cell can be avoided, and the service life of the battery cell is prolonged. The overall heat dissipation effect and stability of the battery pack are improved, and the service life of the battery is prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery energy storage cooling technology, specifically to an energy storage box and a flow equalization and liquid distribution structure for an energy storage device. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of new energy technologies, energy storage boxes, as key equipment for power storage, generate a large amount of heat during the charging and discharging of their internal batteries. If this heat cannot be dissipated effectively and in a timely manner, it will seriously affect battery performance and lifespan, and may even pose safety hazards. Currently, a common method is to introduce refrigerant into the cooling channels between adjacent cells in the battery pack for heat dissipation. However, existing refrigerant inlet structures suffer from uneven flow resistance, making it difficult to distribute the refrigerant evenly to each cooling channel. This results in insufficient heat dissipation for some cells and excessive refrigerant flow for others, leading to energy waste. Furthermore, traditional inlet structures occupy a large space, affecting the arrangement of batteries inside the energy storage box and the overall structural compactness, limiting the improvement of energy storage density and failing to meet the ever-increasing demand for high-energy-density energy storage. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a refrigerant inlet and distribution structure for energy storage boxes that can balance flow resistance, efficiently distribute refrigerant, and optimize spatial layout. Utility Model Content

[0003] To overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, this application provides an energy storage tank and a flow equalization and liquid distribution structure for an energy storage device, specifically adopting the following technical solution:

[0004] A flow equalization and distribution structure for refrigerant feeding into an energy storage tank is disclosed. This structure introduces refrigerant into the heat dissipation channels between adjacent cells in a battery pack and balances flow resistance. The flow equalization and distribution structure includes a flow equalization channel located at the top or bottom of the energy storage tank and branch channels located on the sides of the battery pack.

[0005] The liquid equalization channel includes a main liquid inlet channel and a secondary liquid inlet channel; one end of the main liquid inlet channel extends to the outside of the energy storage tank, and the other end of the main liquid inlet channel extends to the top or bottom of the energy storage tank; one end of the secondary liquid inlet channel is connected to the end of the main liquid inlet channel located at the top or bottom of the energy storage tank, and the other end of the secondary liquid inlet channel is connected to the branch channel;

[0006] Each of the battery packs is provided with at least two branch channels on its side, and each branch channel is connected to a secondary liquid inlet channel; a single branch channel is provided with multiple liquid outlets, and each liquid outlet is connected to a heat dissipation channel.

[0007] Optionally: The secondary liquid inlet channel adopts a star-shaped layout structure, comprising a first liquid inlet channel arranged diagonally along the energy storage tank, a second liquid inlet channel arranged along the width of the energy storage tank, and a third liquid inlet channel arranged along the length of the energy storage tank. One end of each of the first, second, and third liquid inlet channels is connected to the main liquid inlet channel. The other end of the first liquid inlet channel is located at one of the four corners of the energy storage tank. The other end of the second liquid inlet channel is located at the center of the side of the energy storage tank in the width direction. The other end of the third liquid inlet channel is located at the center of the side of the energy storage tank in the length direction. The other ends of each of the first, second, and third liquid inlet channels are connected to a branch channel.

[0008] Optionally, both the second-stage liquid inlet channel and the third liquid inlet channel adopt an S-shaped channel structure formed by alternating connections of multiple curved sections and straight sections, and the number of curved sections in the third liquid inlet channel is greater than the number of curved sections in the second-stage liquid inlet channel.

[0009] Optionally, the first liquid inlet channel, the second liquid inlet channel, and the third liquid inlet channel are each provided with two or more first liquid outlets, and the orifice diameter of the first liquid outlet is increased along the refrigerant flow direction.

[0010] Optionally: The secondary liquid inlet channel adopts a snowflake-shaped layout structure. The secondary liquid inlet channel includes a fourth liquid inlet channel and multiple radial fifth liquid inlet channels. The fourth liquid inlet channel adopts a closed-loop polygonal structure, and the other end of the main liquid inlet channel is located at the center of the closed-loop polygonal structure. The other end of the main liquid inlet channel is connected to the vertex or side of the closed-loop polygonal structure. Each fifth liquid inlet channel is provided with at least one sixth liquid inlet channel. One end of the fifth liquid inlet channel is connected to the vertex or side of the closed-loop polygonal structure. The other end of the fifth liquid inlet channel or the end of the sixth liquid inlet channel extends to the periphery of the energy storage tank. The other end of the fifth liquid inlet channel or the end of the sixth liquid inlet channel is connected to one of the branch channels.

[0011] Optionally: The secondary inlet channel adopts a nested distribution structure of several regular geometric frames. The secondary inlet channel includes multiple coaxial nested geometric channels, and there is at least one connecting channel between adjacent geometric channels. The other end of the main inlet channel is located at the center of the innermost geometric channel, and the other end of the main inlet channel is connected to the vertex or side of the innermost geometric channel. Each of the geometric channels has an outlet at its vertex or side, and each outlet is connected to one of the branch channels.

[0012] Optionally: The secondary liquid inlet channel adopts a lung-shaped biomimetic channel structure. The secondary liquid inlet channel includes a seventh liquid inlet channel and multiple eighth liquid inlet channels. The seventh liquid inlet channel has an arc-shaped structure. The other end of the main liquid inlet channel is connected to the middle position of the seventh liquid inlet channel. One end of each of the eighth liquid inlet channels is connected to the end or near the end of the seventh liquid inlet channel. The other end of the eighth liquid inlet channel extends to the periphery of the energy storage tank, and the other end of each of the eighth liquid inlet channels is connected to one of the branch channels.

[0013] In addition, this application also discloses an energy storage box, which is provided with multiple battery packs and has a liquid distribution structure as described above. The liquid distribution channel is located at the top or bottom of the energy storage box, and the branch channels are distributed on the sides of the battery packs.

[0014] The battery pack has multiple cells, and a heat dissipation channel is provided between adjacent cells. The liquid inlet of the heat dissipation channel is close to the side and lower of the cell. The liquid inlet of each heat dissipation channel is connected to the liquid outlet of the branch channel. The liquid outlet of the heat dissipation channel is close to the top of the cell.

[0015] Optionally: The battery pack has a baffle at the top of the cell, the baffle forming a first liquid accumulation cavity covering the top surface of the battery pack, and the liquid inlet of the heat dissipation channel is connected to the first liquid accumulation cavity.

[0016] Optionally: The energy storage box is provided with a cavity partition, which divides the interior of the energy storage box into a lower pipeline cavity and an upper liquid storage cavity, wherein the battery pack and the branch flow channel located on the side of the battery pack are arranged in the liquid storage cavity, and the liquid equalization flow channel is arranged in the pipeline cavity.

[0017] Beneficial effects

[0018] The technical solution of this application achieves the following beneficial effects:

[0019] (1) The uniform flow distribution structure of this application achieves uniform refrigerant distribution through a unique uniform flow channel and branch flow channel design. By cooperating with the main inlet flow channel and multiple secondary inlet flow channels, the refrigerant is introduced from outside the energy storage tank and distributed to the perimeter of the energy storage tank. Subsequently, with the cooperation of multiple distribution outlets on the branch flow channels, it is ensured that the refrigerant can flow evenly into each heat dissipation channel. This design simplifies the requirement for uniform flow distribution in multiple holes to the requirement for uniform flow distribution in a small number of holes, reducing the difficulty of uniform flow distribution. This allows for quick and easy equalization of flow resistance in different outlet holes, avoiding differences in cell heat dissipation caused by uneven refrigerant distribution, improving the overall heat dissipation effect and stability of the battery pack, and extending the battery life.

[0020] (2) The secondary liquid inlet channel design arranged in different directions of the energy storage tank in the liquid distribution structure of this application further optimizes the flow path and distribution efficiency of the refrigerant. By optimizing the structure of the secondary liquid inlet channel and adjusting the refrigerant flow resistance, the refrigerant flow rate of each branch channel is balanced; and with the design of the orifice or pipe diameter changing in the extension direction of the secondary liquid inlet channel, the pressure loss of the refrigerant during the flow process can be compensated, ensuring that the flow resistance of the liquid outlet located at the far end and the near end in the same secondary liquid inlet channel is balanced, ensuring uniform refrigerant distribution, thereby improving the heat dissipation performance of the battery cell.

[0021] (3) The liquid distribution structure of this application arranges the liquid distribution channel at the top or bottom of the energy storage tank, and the branch channels are distributed on the side of the battery pack. Combined with the partition of the cavity to divide the internal space of the energy storage tank, the pipeline system and battery pack layout are compact and reasonable, effectively utilizing the internal space of the energy storage tank and improving the energy storage density of the energy storage tank. In addition, the design of the first liquid accumulation cavity formed by the top baffle of the battery pack and the liquid storage cavity further optimizes the storage and distribution of refrigerant, ensures the stable operation of the heat dissipation system, and improves the overall heat dissipation performance of the energy storage tank. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the flow equalization and liquid distribution structure in the energy storage tank of Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the layout structure of the branch flow channel in the energy storage box of Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a secondary inlet flow channel layout structure in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another secondary inlet flow channel layout structure in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between the branch flow channel and the heat dissipation flow channel in Embodiment 5 of this application.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid equalization channel structure with a snowflake-shaped layout in Embodiment 2 of this application.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid equalization channel structure with a nested distribution of regular geometric frames in Embodiment 3 of this application.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid equalization channel structure of the lung-shaped biomimetic flow channel structure in Embodiment 4 of this application.

[0030] The specific meanings of the reference numerals in the attached figures are as follows:

[0031] 1-Storage box housing; 101-Storage box bottom; 102-Storage box top; 103-Pipeline cavity; 104-Storage liquid cavity; 105-Second liquid accumulation cavity; 2-Battery pack; 201-Battery cell; 3-Heat dissipation channel; 301-Heat dissipation channel inlet; 302-Heat dissipation channel outlet; 4-Cavity partition; 5-Baffle; 501-First liquid accumulation cavity; 6-Main inlet channel; 601-Center outlet 7-Secondary inlet channel; 701-First inlet channel; 702-Secondary inlet channel; 703-Third inlet channel; 704-First outlet; 705-Fourth inlet channel; 706-Fifth inlet channel; 707-Sixth inlet channel; 708-Geometric channel; 709-Seventh inlet channel; 710-Eighth inlet channel; 8-Branch channel; 801-Distribution outlet; 9-Return pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The present application will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the present application and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present application. It should be noted that the following detailed descriptions are exemplary and intended to provide further explanation of the present application.

[0033] Combination Figure 1 As shown in the illustration, this application specifically discloses a flow equalization and distribution structure for refrigerant inlet in an energy storage tank. This structure is used to introduce refrigerant into the heat dissipation channel 3 between adjacent cells 201 in the battery pack 2 and to equalize flow resistance. The flow equalization and distribution structure includes a flow equalization channel and branch channels 8 located on the side of the battery pack 2. The flow equalization channel is located at the bottom 101 or top 102 of the energy storage tank. The design of the flow equalization and distribution structure used in this embodiment fully considers the flow characteristics of the refrigerant and the internal spatial layout of the energy storage tank. By using a multi-stage flow distribution method, the multi-hole flow equalization is simplified to flow equalization only for a small number of outlet holes, reducing the difficulty of flow equalization and enabling rapid and uniform distribution of the refrigerant.

[0034] Example 1:

[0035] Specifically, in combination Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in this embodiment 1, the liquid equalization channel is located at the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank, and the liquid equalization channel includes a main liquid inlet channel 6 and multiple secondary liquid inlet channels 7. One end of the main liquid inlet channel 6 extends to the outside of the tank body 1 of the energy storage tank. This end is equipped with a standardized quick-connect interface, which can be conveniently and quickly connected to external refrigerant supply equipment, such as refrigerant pumps, refrigerant storage tanks, etc., to achieve efficient refrigerant introduction. The other end of the main liquid inlet channel 6 extends to the center of the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank. In this embodiment, the main liquid inlet channel 6 adopts a large-diameter straight-through structure. Its pipe diameter has been optimized by fluid dynamics calculations, which can effectively reduce the flow resistance of the refrigerant in the main liquid inlet channel 6, reduce energy loss, and ensure that the refrigerant can be delivered to each secondary liquid inlet channel 7 with stable pressure and flow rate.

[0036] Each secondary liquid inlet channel 7 has one end connected to the main liquid inlet channel 6 located at the center of the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank, and the other end extends to the side or four corners of the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank. The secondary liquid inlet channels 7 adopt a symmetrical distribution design, with the main liquid inlet channel 6 at the center of the energy storage tank as the symmetrical point. The secondary liquid inlet channels 7 extend evenly to the surrounding area of ​​the energy storage tank, thereby further delivering refrigerant to different areas of the energy storage tank, ensuring that the battery packs 2 in each location of the energy storage tank can receive refrigerant supply. Furthermore, the main liquid inlet channel 6 in this embodiment 1 includes an external liquid inlet and a central liquid outlet 601. A flow sensor and a pressure sensor can be installed at the external liquid inlet to monitor the refrigerant flow rate and pressure entering the main liquid inlet channel 6 in real time, and feed the data back to the control system of the energy storage tank so that the control system can adjust the refrigerant supply according to actual needs. In this embodiment 1, the central liquid outlet 601 is connected to each secondary liquid inlet channel 7, and the connection part can adopt a smooth transition structure design to avoid sharp angles or right angles, so as to reduce the local resistance when the refrigerant flows.

[0037] As one implementation method of this embodiment 1, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the secondary liquid inlet channel 7 can be arranged diagonally along the energy storage tank to form a first liquid inlet channel 701. The first liquid inlet channel 701 is located at the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank, and its first inlet is connected to the central outlet 601 of the main liquid inlet channel 6. The first outlet 704 of the first liquid inlet channel 701 is located at the four corners of the energy storage tank. Furthermore, in this embodiment 1, the secondary liquid inlet channel 7 can also be arranged along the width of the energy storage tank to form a second-stage liquid inlet channel 702. The second-stage liquid inlet channel 702 is located at the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank, and its first inlet is connected to the central outlet 601 of the main liquid inlet channel 6. The first outlet 704 of the second-stage liquid inlet channel 702 is located at the center of the side of the energy storage tank in the width direction. The second-stage inlet channel 702 employs an S-shaped flow channel structure formed by alternating curved and straight sections. The radius of curvature of each curved section is precisely calculated to ensure smooth refrigerant flow within the channel while increasing the flow path length. Furthermore, the number of curved and straight sections in the second-stage inlet channel 702 can be selected through fluid simulation to maintain consistent flow resistance at the outlets of the first inlet channel 701 and the second-stage inlet channel 702.

[0038] like Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment 1, for battery packs 2 with an even number of units (e.g., four or more), a liquid equalization structure combining the first liquid inlet channel 701 and the second-stage liquid inlet channel 702 can be adopted. Since the width of the energy storage tank is relatively short, the number of curved and straight sections of the second-stage liquid inlet channel 702 can be adjusted to ensure that the flow resistance of the first liquid inlet channel 701 and the second-stage liquid inlet channel 702 is consistent.

[0039] Furthermore, as a variation of the secondary inlet channel 7 in Embodiment 1, the secondary inlet channel 7 can also be arranged along the length of the energy storage tank to form a third inlet channel 703, creating a star-shaped layout. The third inlet channel 703 is located at the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank, and its first inlet is connected to the central outlet 601 of the main inlet channel 6. The first outlet 704 of the third inlet channel 703 is located at the center of the side of the energy storage tank along its length. Compared to the second-stage inlet channel 702, the third inlet channel 703 has fewer bends. This design results in a greater flow resistance in the third inlet channel 703 compared to the second-stage inlet channel 702. During the flow equalization stage of the energy storage box, due to the length difference of the energy storage box in the length and width directions, the flow resistance requirement in the width direction is greater in order to achieve flow resistance balance in the length and width directions. Therefore, the number of bending sections in the second-stage liquid inlet channel 702 is more than that in the third liquid inlet channel 703. By controlling the number of bending sections, the flow resistance of the second-stage liquid inlet channel 702 and the third liquid inlet channel 703 can be precisely controlled, so as to achieve uniform distribution of refrigerant in different directions, so as to meet the heat dissipation requirements of battery pack 2 in different areas of the energy storage box, and further improve the uniformity of refrigerant distribution and heat dissipation efficiency.

[0040] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, for battery packs 2 with an odd number of units (e.g., five or more), a liquid equalization structure combining a first liquid inlet channel 701, a second-stage liquid inlet channel 702, and a third liquid inlet channel 703 can be adopted. Since the energy storage tank has the longest diagonal direction, the second longest in the opposite direction, and the shortest width direction in terms of channel length angle, the number of curved sections and straight sections of the second-stage liquid inlet channel 702 and the third liquid inlet channel 703 can be adjusted to ensure that the flow resistance of the first liquid inlet channel 701, the second-stage liquid inlet channel 702, and the third liquid inlet channel 703 is consistent.

[0041] To further achieve uniform liquid supply to the heat dissipation channel 3 between adjacent cells 201, such as... Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment 1, at least two branch channels 8 are provided on the side of each battery pack 2, and each branch channel 8 is connected to a secondary liquid inlet channel 7. The branch channels 8 can be made of flexible materials, such as high-temperature resistant and corrosion-resistant materials. Due to their good flexibility, the branch channels 8 can adapt to the slight displacement and vibration of the battery pack 2 within the energy storage tank without affecting the refrigerant flow, thus avoiding pipeline damage caused by rigid connections.

[0042] Furthermore, each of the branch channels 8 is provided with multiple liquid distribution outlets 801, each of which is connected to one of the heat dissipation channels 3. The refrigerant is evenly supplied to the periphery of the energy storage tank through the aforementioned liquid distribution channels, and the branch channels 8 can be used to supply the refrigerant evenly distributed at the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank to the battery pack 2. It should be noted that, to ensure stable liquid supply pressure in each heat dissipation channel 3 within the battery pack 2, the length of the branch channels 8 should not be too long. Multiple branch channels 8 can be used in the same battery pack 2, each branch channel 8 being independent and connected to the liquid distribution channels below the battery pack 2. This layout forms a unique multi-stage liquid distribution structure.

[0043] In actual operation, the coolant first enters the main inlet channel 6, and then is distributed to multiple branch channels 8 through the secondary inlet channel 7. Because the length of each branch channel 8 is strictly controlled, the flow resistance of the liquid within each branch channel 8 is basically the same, allowing the coolant to enter each heat dissipation channel 3 with similar pressure and flow rate. This ensures that the battery cells 201 of battery pack 2, regardless of their location in the energy storage tank, receive a stable and sufficient supply of coolant through the multi-stage liquid distribution structure. This ensures the efficient operation of the entire battery pack 2 heat dissipation system and avoids performance degradation or even safety hazards caused by insufficient localized heat dissipation.

[0044] Through the aforementioned flow equalization and distribution structure, the refrigerant enters from the main inlet channel 6, is diverted by the secondary inlet channel 7, and then distributed to each heat dissipation channel 3 by the branch channels 8, achieving multi-stage distribution of the refrigerant. Since the main inlet channel 6 centrally delivers the refrigerant to the center of the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank, and then disperses it to the surrounding areas through multiple secondary inlet channels 7, the flow resistance of each heat dissipation channel 3 is effectively balanced, avoiding situations where the refrigerant flow rate in some heat dissipation channels 3 is too high or too low, thus ensuring the uniformity of heat dissipation for each cell 201.

[0045] Furthermore, in this embodiment 1, each secondary liquid inlet channel 7 is provided with two or more first liquid outlets 704. As each secondary liquid inlet channel 7 extends towards the corner or side of the energy storage box, a single secondary liquid inlet channel 7 may span multiple battery groups 2. In this embodiment, each secondary liquid inlet channel 7 is provided with at least one first liquid outlet 704 on one side corresponding to each battery group 2. Based on the above structure, the liquid outlets of the secondary liquid inlet channels 7 are arranged at key positions in the energy storage box, abandoning the traditional redundant layout design. This allows the secondary liquid inlet channels 7 to provide a stable flow to any battery group 2 in the energy storage box. The above layout can provide refrigerant to all battery groups 2 in the energy storage box, and at the same time, it can effectively concentrate the liquid outlets, reduce the number of liquid outlets, reduce the difficulty of flow resistance balancing, and ensure that each key point can obtain a stable refrigerant flow, thereby significantly improving the overall temperature uniformity and heat exchange efficiency of the energy storage system. Furthermore, in this embodiment 1, to ensure consistent flow rate at the first outlet 704 at different positions on each secondary inlet channel 7, the orifice diameter of the first outlet 704 is increased along the extension direction of the secondary inlet channel 7. To ensure the rationality of the orifice diameter design, the energy storage tank of this application can establish a fluid dynamics model and conduct simulation analysis on the pressure distribution and flow rate changes of the refrigerant within the secondary inlet channel 7. Based on the simulation results, the orifice diameter specifications of the first outlet 704 on each secondary inlet channel 7 of different specifications of energy storage tanks were determined, so that the refrigerant flow rate flowing out of each first outlet 704 is relatively balanced. In this way, even at positions far from the main inlet channel 6, the refrigerant flow rate can be ensured to enter the branch channel 8 stably, thereby ensuring that each heat dissipation channel 3 receives a uniform refrigerant supply and effectively improving the flow uniformity effect of the uniform flow distribution structure.

[0046] Example 2:

[0047] Furthermore, this embodiment 2 also discloses an alternative structure for the liquid equalization channel, wherein the liquid equalization channel can be disposed at the bottom 101 or the top 102 of the energy storage tank, and the liquid equalization channel includes a main liquid inlet channel 6 and multiple secondary liquid inlet channels 7. Combined with Figure 1 and Figure 6As shown, in this embodiment 2, the liquid equalization channel is located at the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank, and the secondary liquid inlet channel 7 adopts a snowflake-shaped layout structure. The secondary liquid inlet channel 7 includes a fourth liquid inlet channel 705 and multiple radially arranged fifth liquid inlet channels 706. The fourth liquid inlet channel 705 adopts a closed-loop polygonal structure, and the other end of the main liquid inlet channel 6 is provided with a central liquid outlet 601. The central liquid outlet 601 is located at the center of the closed-loop polygonal structure, and the other end of the main liquid inlet channel 6 is connected to the top of the closed-loop polygonal structure. The points or sides remain connected; each of the fifth liquid inlet channels 706 is provided with at least one sixth liquid inlet channel 707, one end of the fifth liquid inlet channel 706 is connected to the vertex or side of the closed-loop polygonal structure, the other end of the fifth liquid inlet channel 706 or the end of the sixth liquid inlet channel 705 extends to the periphery of the energy storage tank 1, and the other end of the fifth liquid inlet channel 706 or the end of the sixth liquid inlet channel 705 is respectively provided with a first liquid outlet 704, which can be connected to one of the branch channels 8 through the first liquid outlet 704.

[0048] In detail, the fourth liquid inlet channel 705 with a closed-loop polygonal structure in this embodiment 2 mainly slows down the flow of the refrigerant transported by the main liquid inlet channel 6. By first converging the coolant transported by the main liquid inlet channel 6 into the closed-loop polygonal structure, the "annular space" of the closed-loop polygonal structure is used to buffer the refrigerant pressure and avoid the local flow rate being too fast or the pressure being uneven due to the direct rush of the refrigerant.

[0049] Multiple fifth liquid inlet channels 706 extend radially from the closed-loop polygonal structure to the perimeter of the energy storage tank 1 and connect to the branch channels 8. This radial layout of the fifth liquid inlet channels 706 allows the refrigerant to diffuse from the center to every corner of the energy storage tank 1, ensuring coverage of the entire tank and guaranteeing current supply to the cells in different areas within the tank. Furthermore, for localized areas with limited space within the energy storage tank, a sixth liquid inlet channel 707 can be used as a secondary branch to extend coverage, achieving overall refrigerant coverage and preventing refrigerant shortages in specific areas of the energy storage tank.

[0050] The snowflake-shaped layout structure adopted in this embodiment 2 allows the refrigerant to be input from the main inlet channel in a single path, then uniformly distributed by the closed-loop polygonal structure, and then dispersed and transported through the radial channels, so that the refrigerant flow rate is evenly distributed in the energy storage tank, thus solving the problem of uniform distribution of coolant.

[0051] Example 3:

[0052] Furthermore, this embodiment 3 also discloses a structure for a liquid equalization channel, wherein the liquid equalization channel can be disposed at the bottom 101 or the top 102 of the energy storage tank, and the liquid equalization channel includes a main liquid inlet channel 6 and multiple secondary liquid inlet channels 7. Combined with Figure 1 and Figure 7As shown, in this embodiment 3, the liquid distribution channel is located at the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank. The secondary liquid inlet channel adopts a nested structure of several regular geometric frames, thereby constructing a hierarchical coolant delivery network from the center to the periphery, which is more suitable for the spatial shape and heat dissipation requirements of the energy storage tank 1. Specifically, the secondary liquid inlet channel of this embodiment 3 includes multiple coaxial nested geometric channels 708. It should be noted that the geometric channels 708 can be square, rhomboid, rectangular, etc. There is at least one connecting channel between adjacent geometric channels 708, which serves as a channel for the refrigerant to flow between different levels of channels, thereby balancing the pressure of each level of channels and preventing uneven flow. The other end of the main liquid inlet channel 6 is provided with a central liquid outlet 601, and the central liquid outlet 601 is located at the center of the innermost geometric channel 708, and the central liquid outlet 601 (i.e., the other end of the main liquid inlet channel 6) is connected to the apex or side of the innermost geometric channel 708. The refrigerant delivered through the main inlet channel 6 first converges in the central area. The innermost geometric channel 704 buffers the pressure, preventing the refrigerant from rushing directly into the outer channels and causing sudden changes in flow and pressure. This establishes uniform initial conditions for the refrigerant distribution in subsequent channels, allowing the refrigerant to diffuse more evenly from the center to the outer layer.

[0053] Furthermore, in this embodiment 3, each of the geometric flow channels 708 has a first liquid outlet 704 at its apex or side, and each first liquid outlet 704 is connected to one of the branch flow channels 8. By using the apex or side of the geometric flow channel 708 as the distribution node for refrigerant flow and arranging the liquid outlet at this position, the liquid distribution channel can be extended to the edge area of ​​the energy storage tank 1, solving the problem that the center of the traditional flow channel is easily covered and the edge is difficult to reach, thus achieving uniform distribution of refrigerant.

[0054] The nested distribution structure of the regular geometric framework used in Embodiment 3 breaks the closed nature of the hierarchical flow channels, allowing the refrigerant to flow and mix between different levels, promoting overall pressure balance, preventing heat accumulation in a single level, promoting uniform heat diffusion throughout the energy storage tank, and suppressing the formation of localized high-temperature points. Furthermore, the flow equalization structure in this embodiment employs a hierarchical layout and redundant design with interconnected levels, giving the flow equalization channels local fault tolerance capabilities. Even if a certain level of flow channel or connecting channel experiences partial blockage, the refrigerant can still flow through other channels and connecting paths, ensuring that the overall flow equalization and heat dissipation functions remain intact.

[0055] Example 4:

[0056] Furthermore, this embodiment 4 also discloses a structure for a liquid equalization channel, wherein the liquid equalization channel can be disposed at the bottom 101 or the top 102 of the energy storage tank, and the liquid equalization channel includes a main liquid inlet channel 6 and multiple secondary liquid inlet channels 7. Combined with Figure 1 and Figure 8As shown, in this embodiment 4, the liquid equalization channel is located at the bottom 101 of the energy storage tank. The secondary liquid inlet channel adopts a lung-shaped biomimetic channel structure. This structure mainly simulates the hierarchical gas delivery structure of the "main bronchus-branch trachea" of a biological lung to adapt to the flow equalization and heat dissipation requirements of the energy storage tank 1, and to achieve efficient distribution and full coverage of the refrigerant. Specifically, the secondary liquid inlet channel in this embodiment 4 includes a seventh liquid inlet channel 709 and multiple eighth liquid inlet channels 710. The seventh liquid inlet channel 709 has an arc-shaped structure. The other end of the main liquid inlet channel 6 is provided with a central liquid outlet 601. The central liquid outlet 601 connects to the middle position of the seventh liquid inlet channel 709. The seventh liquid inlet channel 709 mainly simulates the main bronchus of the lung and can serve as the primary delivery trunk of the refrigerant, undertaking the functions of centralized convergence and preliminary distribution. One end of each of the eighth liquid inlet channels 710 is connected to the end or near the end of the seventh liquid inlet channel 709, and the other end of each eighth liquid inlet channel 710 extends around the energy storage tank 1. Each eighth liquid inlet channel 710 has a first liquid outlet 704 at its other end, and each first liquid outlet 704 is connected to one of the branch channels 8. This eighth liquid inlet channel 710 primarily simulates the branch trachea of ​​the lungs, serving as a secondary delivery branch to achieve precise diffusion of the refrigerant from the main liquid inlet channel 6 to the entire area of ​​the energy storage tank 1.

[0057] In this embodiment 4, the arc-shaped structure of the seventh inlet channel 709 buffers the refrigerant impact from the main inlet channel 6, avoiding the concentrated pressure impact of traditional straight channels. Simultaneously, the refrigerant enters from the center, allowing it to naturally divert to both ends of the arc, providing a more uniform initial flow for subsequent branch channels. Furthermore, in this embodiment 4, branch channels (i.e., the eighth inlet channel 710) extend from either the end or near the end of the arc-shaped structure, simulating the tiered extension of the bronchi from the main bronchus. This allows the refrigerant to gradually diffuse from the center to the corners and edges of the storage tank, achieving overall liquid supply coverage. Moreover, the eighth inlet channel 710 in this embodiment 4 employs a curved flow path (similar to the natural curvature of a biological bronchus), more flexibly adapting to the complex spatial structure within the storage tank. It can reach locations difficult to cover with traditional straight channels, precisely replenishing the refrigerant. Based on the structural advantages of the bronchi, the refrigerant can be naturally and evenly distributed along the channel levels without the need for additional valves or pump sets for control.

[0058] Example 5:

[0059] In addition, this embodiment 5 also discloses an energy storage box, which is provided with a plurality of battery packs 2. The bottom 101 or the top 102 of the energy storage box is provided with a flow equalization and liquid distribution structure as used in any of the embodiments 1-4 above. The flow equalization channel is located at the bottom 101 or the top 102 of the energy storage box, and the branch channels 8 are distributed on the side of the battery packs 2.

[0060] Specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, the battery pack 2 of this application has multiple battery cells 201, and a heat dissipation channel 3 is provided between adjacent battery cells 201. The heat dissipation channel 3 directly contacts the side surface of the battery cell 201, so the refrigerant located in the heat dissipation channel 3 can directly dissipate heat to the side surface of the battery cell 201, thereby improving heat dissipation efficiency. In addition, the heat dissipation channel 3 of this application adopts a reciprocating S-shaped channel, wherein the liquid inlet 301 of the heat dissipation channel is close to the side and lower position of the battery cell 201, and the liquid inlet 301 of each heat dissipation channel is connected to the liquid outlet 801 of the branch channel 8; while the liquid outlet 302 of the heat dissipation channel is close to the top of the battery cell 201. Furthermore, the refrigerant flowing out through the liquid outlet 801 of the branch channel 8 enters from the liquid inlet at the bottom of the heat dissipation channel 3 and flows along the S-shaped channel. Since the liquid outlet is close to the top of the cell 201, the refrigerant flows out from the top of the cell 201, thereby cooling the top of the cell 201 and further improving the heat dissipation effect.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the battery pack 2 also has a baffle 5 at the top of the cell 201. The baffle 5 encloses and forms a first liquid accumulation cavity 501 covering the top surface of the battery pack 2. The inlet 301 of the heat dissipation channel is connected to the first liquid accumulation cavity 501. When the refrigerant flows out from the outlet at the top of the cell 201, it will accumulate in the first liquid accumulation cavity 501, thereby using the refrigerant to cover the top of the cell 201 with liquid, so as to isolate the top of the cell 201 from contact with air and avoid corrosion of the electrodes and other components of the cell 201 due to high temperature. At the same time, once the burst valve is opened, it can also be sealed to prevent air from entering the interior of the cell 201.

[0062] More specifically, this application provides a cavity partition 4 inside the energy storage box. The cavity partition 4 can divide the interior of the energy storage box into two parts: a pipeline cavity 103 and a liquid storage cavity 104. Figure 1 As shown, the cavity partition 4 divides the interior of the energy storage box into a lower pipeline cavity 103 and an upper liquid storage cavity 104.

[0063] It should be noted that the structural arrangement of the pipeline cavity 103 and the liquid storage cavity 104 is not limited to the structure shown in this embodiment. When the top 102 of the energy storage tank is provided with a flow equalization and liquid distribution structure as used in any of the embodiments 1-4 above, the cavity partition 4 can be positioned above the battery pack, in which case the pipeline cavity 103 is located above the liquid storage cavity 104. Correspondingly, the secondary liquid inlet channel 7 is located in the pipeline cavity 103 above the battery pack, and then the refrigerant in the secondary liquid inlet channel 7 is introduced downward into the branch channel 8 on the side of the battery pack 2.

[0064] The battery pack 2 and the branch channel 8 located to the side of the battery pack 2 are both arranged in the liquid storage chamber 104, and the liquid equalization channel is arranged in the pipeline chamber 103. The chamber partition 4 is preferably made of heat-insulating material, which can effectively prevent heat transfer and electrical interference between the refrigerant pipeline and the battery pack 2. At the same time, a sealing hole for the branch channel 8 to pass through is provided on the chamber partition 4, and the sealing hole is sealed with a rubber sealing ring to ensure the airtightness between the pipeline chamber 103 and the liquid storage chamber 104, preventing refrigerant leakage into the pipeline chamber 103. This partitioned design also facilitates the maintenance and repair of the refrigerant pipeline. Workers can directly inspect, repair, and replace the liquid equalization channel within the pipeline chamber 103 without disassembling the battery pack 2, greatly improving maintenance efficiency.

[0065] Furthermore, the cavity partition 4 of this application is provided with a second liquid accumulation chamber 105, and the bottom part of the battery pack 2 is immersed in the second liquid accumulation chamber 105. Preferably, a liquid level sensor can be provided on the side wall of the second liquid accumulation chamber 105 to monitor the refrigerant level in the second liquid accumulation chamber 105 in real time. When the heat dissipation demand increases, the liquid inlet of the main liquid inlet channel 6 increases. Through the multi-stage liquid equalization structure of this application, the refrigerant can be evenly guided to each heat dissipation channel 3, and flows from the liquid outlet 302 of the heat dissipation channel to the first liquid accumulation chamber 501. When the refrigerant overflows from the first liquid accumulation chamber 501, it is collected in the second liquid accumulation chamber 105 and reaches a certain liquid level. The flow rate of the return liquid pipeline 9 on the energy storage tank can be controlled by the liquid level sensor of the second liquid accumulation chamber 105 to ensure that the refrigerant exceeding the preset liquid level of the second liquid accumulation chamber 105 is discharged in time. Meanwhile, the bottom of battery pack 2 is immersed in the refrigerant, which can directly transfer heat to the refrigerant through thermal conduction, enhancing the heat dissipation effect. In particular, the heat generated at the bottom of the battery can be dissipated more quickly, further improving the heat dissipation performance of the energy storage box.

[0066] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this application. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the technical principles of this application, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A flow equalization and distribution structure for refrigerant inlet in an energy storage tank, used to introduce refrigerant into the heat dissipation channel between adjacent cells in a battery pack and to equalize flow resistance, characterized in that, The liquid distribution structure includes a liquid distribution channel located at the top or bottom of the energy storage tank and a branch channel located on the side of the battery pack. The liquid equalization channel includes a main liquid inlet channel and a secondary liquid inlet channel; one end of the main liquid inlet channel extends to the outside of the energy storage tank, and the other end of the main liquid inlet channel extends to the top or bottom of the energy storage tank; one end of the secondary liquid inlet channel is connected to the end of the main liquid inlet channel located at the top or bottom of the energy storage tank, and the other end of the secondary liquid inlet channel is connected to the branch channel; Each of the battery packs is provided with at least two branch channels on its side, and each branch channel is connected to a secondary liquid inlet channel; a single branch channel is provided with multiple liquid outlets, and each liquid outlet is connected to a heat dissipation channel.

2. The flow equalization and liquid distribution structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The secondary liquid inlet channel adopts a star-shaped layout structure. The secondary liquid inlet channel includes a first liquid inlet channel arranged diagonally along the energy storage tank, a second liquid inlet channel arranged along the width of the energy storage tank, and a third liquid inlet channel arranged along the length of the energy storage tank. One end of the first liquid inlet channel, the second liquid inlet channel, and the third liquid inlet channel are respectively connected to the main liquid inlet channel. The other end of the first liquid inlet channel is located at the four corners of the energy storage tank. The other end of the second liquid inlet channel is located at the center of the side of the energy storage tank in the width direction. The other end of the third liquid inlet channel is located at the center of the side of the energy storage tank in the length direction. The other ends of the first liquid inlet channel, the second liquid inlet channel, and the third liquid inlet channel are respectively connected to one of the branch channels.

3. The flow equalization and liquid distribution structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, Both the second-stage liquid inlet channel and the third liquid inlet channel adopt an S-shaped channel structure formed by alternating connections of multiple curved sections and straight sections, and the number of curved sections in the third liquid inlet channel is greater than the number of curved sections in the second-stage liquid inlet channel.

4. The flow equalization and liquid distribution structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first liquid inlet channel, the second liquid inlet channel, and the third liquid inlet channel are each provided with two or more first liquid outlets, and the diameter of the first liquid outlet increases along the refrigerant flow direction.

5. The flow equalization and liquid distribution structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The secondary liquid inlet channel adopts a snowflake-shaped layout structure. The secondary liquid inlet channel includes a fourth liquid inlet channel and multiple radial fifth liquid inlet channels. The fourth liquid inlet channel adopts a closed-loop polygonal structure, and the other end of the main liquid inlet channel is located at the center of the closed-loop polygonal structure. The other end of the main liquid inlet channel is connected to the vertex or side of the closed-loop polygonal structure. Each fifth liquid inlet channel is provided with at least one sixth liquid inlet channel. One end of the fifth liquid inlet channel is connected to the vertex or side of the closed-loop polygonal structure. The other end of the fifth liquid inlet channel or the end of the sixth liquid inlet channel extends to the periphery of the energy storage tank. The other end of the fifth liquid inlet channel or the end of the sixth liquid inlet channel is connected to one of the branch channels.

6. The flow equalization and liquid distribution structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The secondary inlet channel adopts a nested structure of several regular geometric frames. The secondary inlet channel includes multiple coaxial nested geometric channels, and there is at least one connecting channel between adjacent geometric channels. The other end of the main inlet channel is located at the center of the innermost geometric channel, and the other end of the main inlet channel is connected to the vertex or side of the innermost geometric channel. Each of the geometric channels has an outlet at its vertex or side, and each outlet is connected to one of the branch channels.

7. The flow equalization and liquid distribution structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The secondary liquid inlet channel adopts a lung-shaped biomimetic flow channel structure. The secondary liquid inlet channel includes a seventh liquid inlet channel and multiple eighth liquid inlet channels. The seventh liquid inlet channel has an arc-shaped structure. The other end of the main liquid inlet channel is connected to the middle position of the seventh liquid inlet channel. One end of each of the eighth liquid inlet channels is connected to the end or near the end of the seventh liquid inlet channel. The other end of the eighth liquid inlet channel extends to the periphery of the energy storage tank, and the other end of each of the eighth liquid inlet channels is connected to one of the branch channels.

8. An energy storage box, wherein the energy storage box contains multiple battery packs, characterized in that, The energy storage tank is provided with a flow equalization and liquid distribution structure as described in any one of claims 1-7, wherein the flow equalization channel is located at the top or bottom of the energy storage tank, and the branch channels are distributed on the side of the battery pack. The battery pack has multiple cells, and a heat dissipation channel is provided between adjacent cells. The liquid inlet of the heat dissipation channel is close to the side and lower of the cell. The liquid inlet of each heat dissipation channel is connected to the liquid outlet of the branch channel. The liquid outlet of the heat dissipation channel is close to the top of the cell.

9. The energy storage box according to claim 8, characterized in that, The battery pack has a baffle at the top of the cell, and the baffle forms a first liquid accumulation cavity covering the top surface of the battery pack. The liquid inlet of the heat dissipation channel is connected to the first liquid accumulation cavity.

10. The energy storage box according to claim 8, characterized in that, The energy storage box is equipped with a cavity partition, which divides the interior of the energy storage box into a pipeline cavity and a liquid storage cavity. The battery packs and the branch flow channels located on the side of the battery packs are arranged in the liquid storage cavity, and the liquid equalization flow channel is arranged in the pipeline cavity.

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