Active thermal management system for metal-ion batteries

Abstract

The application discloses an active thermal management system of a metal ion battery, which comprises a temperature sensor, a heat conduction path, a heat exchange module and a master control module; the metal ion battery pack comprises a plurality of cell monomers, the pole piece of the cell monomer is provided with a heat exchange lug which is an extension of the base body in the pole piece, and the heat exchange lugs of the pole pieces after being stacked are collectively a heat exchange interface; the temperature sensor is arranged on the heat exchange interface; the heat conduction path is connected between the heat exchange interface and the heat exchange module, the metal ion battery pack exchanges heat with the heat exchange module through the heat exchange interface and the heat conduction path; and the master control module receives the temperature monitored by the temperature sensor and controls the heat exchange module to heat or cool all the pole pieces in the metal ion battery pack through the heat conduction path. The application utilizes the electrode piece as a heat conduction medium, actively monitors and controls the internal temperature of the battery, solves the technical problem that the temperature influences the metal ion battery, and improves the safety, service life and availability of the equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of thermal management technology for stacked liquid, semi-solid, and all-solid metal-ion batteries, and in particular to an active thermal management system for metal-ion batteries. Background Technology

[0002] Of all environmental factors, temperature has the greatest impact on the safety, charge / discharge performance, lifespan, and usability of metal-ion batteries. Both excessively high and low temperatures can cause irreversible damage to the battery, making the maintenance of suitable battery operating temperature conditions crucial.

[0003] Metal-ion batteries experience a decrease in capacity retention during charging and discharging at both high and low temperatures. This is because the electrochemical reactions at the electrode-electrolyte interface are temperature-dependent. A decrease in temperature reduces the electrode reaction rate; conversely, a decrease in discharge current and power output occurs when the battery voltage remains constant. Temperature also affects the rate of metal ion transport in the electrolyte, accelerating transport at higher temperatures and slowing it down at lower temperatures, thus impacting charge and discharge performance. Therefore, metal-ion batteries require a suitable temperature range to operate efficiently.

[0004] Taking liquid lithium-ion batteries as an example, low temperatures reduce the activity of lithium ions, increasing internal resistance, weakening discharge capacity, and shortening battery life. If a lithium-ion battery is exposed to low temperatures for a short period, it will not damage its capacity, and performance will recover once the temperature rises. However, if a lithium-ion battery is charged at low temperatures for an extended period, metallic lithium will precipitate on the negative electrode surface. This is an irreversible process that will permanently damage the battery's capacity.

[0005] However, high temperatures increase the activity of lithium ions in lithium-ion batteries, making them more prone to safety issues. Temperatures exceeding 45°C disrupt the battery's chemical balance, leading to side reactions. Charging at high temperatures degrades the performance of battery materials and significantly shortens cycle life; this damage is irreversible. Prolonged discharge at excessively high temperatures can cause the battery packaging to bulge and rupture. Upon rupture, the chemicals inside the battery react with air, potentially causing combustion and explosion. The combustion temperature of lithium iron phosphate is approximately 500°C, while that of ternary lithium batteries is approximately 200°C, which explains why ternary lithium batteries are more prone to explosion.

[0006] The heating principle of metal-ion batteries: Taking lithium-ion batteries as an example, the basic components of a lithium-ion battery (LIB) include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, an electrolyte, and a separator. For example, in a lithium iron phosphate battery, during charging, Li... +Ions move from the positive electrode to the negative electrode through the membrane, while the process is reversed during discharge. During the transfer of charge at the electrodes, an electrochemical reaction occurs, further generating electrons, which flow in the external circuit to produce an electric current. Equation (1) shows the electrochemical reaction that occurs at the positive electrode (LiFePO4), while equation (2) shows the electrochemical reaction that occurs at the negative electrode (carbon).

[0007] xLi + + (1-x)LiFePO4 + xe - → LiFePO4 (1)

[0008] Li x C6 → xLi + + 6C + xe - (2)

[0009] The application of battery-in-the-loop (LIB) batteries is limited due to the impact of temperature. For safe operation, they should be maintained within a temperature range of -20°C to 60°C. If the temperature exceeds this range, the LIB will degrade and potentially explode. During charging and discharging, heat accumulates inside individual cells; by properly understanding the battery's heat generation, the impact of temperature on the battery can be minimized.

[0010] Based on the heating principle of lithium batteries, there are four main heat sources inside the battery:

[0011] (1) The heat of reaction of a reversible reaction;

[0012] (2) The secondary heat generated by electrolyte decomposition during overcharging or over-discharging;

[0013] (3) Joule heating caused by battery internal resistance;

[0014] (4) Polarization heat generated by polarization reaction.

[0015] The higher the battery's discharge current, the lower its discharge capacity and the faster its voltage drops. As the charging current increases, the charging speed increases, and the more heat the battery generates. Sustained temperature increases can lead to thermal runaway, which is particularly critical for large battery packs.

[0016] The thermal runaway process proceeds in three stages. In the first stage, the internal temperature of the battery rises due to the decomposition of the separator, causing the battery to change from a normal to an abnormal state. The negative electrode reacts with the electrolyte, further increasing the temperature. In the second stage, the positive electrode material begins to decompose, releasing a large amount of gas, further increasing the internal temperature of the battery. The electrolyte decomposes, releasing a large amount of heat. In the third stage, an explosion occurs due to the combustion of the flammable electrolyte.

[0017] Therefore, the internal temperature management and control of metal-ion batteries is a key factor in improving the technology of metal-ion batteries.

[0018] Current technology employs passive temperature management and control techniques for battery internal thermal control. This involves controlling the load connection based on the detected external battery temperature, thereby controlling the battery temperature. This approach is inefficient at dissipating heat accumulated inside the battery when the internal temperature is too high, and ineffective at raising the internal temperature when it is too low, making it difficult to maintain the optimal operating temperature for metal-ion batteries. Utility Model Content

[0019] The purpose of this invention is to address the shortcomings and deficiencies of existing technologies by providing an active thermal management system for metal-ion batteries. This system utilizes electrode plates as a heat conduction medium and actively controls the internal temperature of the battery based on the temperature changes within the battery caused by the heat conduction of the electrode plates. This solves the technical problem of the impact of temperature on metal-ion batteries and improves battery safety, charge / discharge performance, lifespan, and availability.

[0020] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:

[0021] An active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery includes: a temperature sensor, a thermally conductive path, a heat exchange module, and a main control module. The metal-ion battery pack includes multiple individual cells, each cell having an electrode with a heat exchange tab. The heat exchange tab is an extension of the substrate within the electrode, and the entire assembly of the stacked electrode tabs forms the heat exchange interface of the metal-ion battery pack. The temperature sensor is located at the heat exchange interface. The thermally conductive path connects the heat exchange interface and the heat exchange module, allowing the metal-ion battery pack to exchange heat with the heat exchange module through the thermally conductive path. The main control module receives the temperature monitored by the temperature sensor and controls the heat exchange module to heat or cool all the electrodes within the metal-ion battery pack through the thermally conductive path.

[0022] In some embodiments, the electrodes of the metal-ion battery include a positive electrode and / or a negative electrode.

[0023] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tab is disposed between the substrate of the electrode and the tab, or disposed at other parts of the substrate of the electrode.

[0024] In some embodiments, the surface of the heat exchange interface is provided with an insulating thermally conductive sleeve.

[0025] In some embodiments, the heat conduction path is a heat conduction pipe, heat conduction tape, heat conduction cable, or heat conduction mesh made of a high thermal conductivity metal or high thermal conductivity alloy material.

[0026] In some embodiments, the heat exchange module includes a battery-side heat exchange unit, a circulation unit, and a heat pump heating / cooling unit. The battery-side heat exchange unit includes heat exchange fins and an internal heat exchange container. The internal heat exchange container contains a first heat-conducting working fluid. The heat exchange fins are immersed in the first heat-conducting working fluid and are connected to the heat conduction path. The circulation unit is used to promote the circulation of the first heat-conducting working fluid between the battery-side heat exchange unit and the heat pump heating / cooling unit. The heat pump heating / cooling unit is used to heat or cool the first heat-conducting working fluid.

[0027] In some embodiments, the circulation unit includes a circulation pump.

[0028] In some embodiments, the heat pump heating / cooling unit includes a heat source and a cold source heat exchanger, which contains a first heat-conducting working fluid container and a second heat-conducting working fluid container. The heat source and cold source heat exchanger heats or cools the first heat-conducting working fluid through heat exchange between the first heat-conducting working fluid and the second heat-conducting working fluid.

[0029] In some embodiments, the heat pump heating / cooling unit further includes a reversing four-way valve, a gas-liquid separator, a compressor, a filter, an external heat exchanger, and a bidirectional expansion valve. The four-way valve is connected to the first interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger, the inlet of the gas-liquid separator, the first interface of the external heat exchanger, and the outlet of the filter. The outlet of the gas-liquid separator is connected to the inlet of the compressor, and the outlet of the compressor is connected to the inlet of the filter. The bidirectional expansion valve is connected to the second interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger and the second interface of the external heat exchanger. The temperature sensing bulb of the bidirectional expansion valve is placed at the outlet of the gas-liquid separator. Under the control of the main control module, the four-way valve has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the gas-liquid separator, and the first interface of the external heat exchanger is connected to the outlet of the filter. In the second state, the first interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger is connected to the outlet of the filter, and the first interface of the external heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the gas-liquid separator.

[0030] In some embodiments, the heat exchange module is a semiconductor heat source / cold source module.

[0031] After adopting the above technical solution, the beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0032] This application modifies the electrode structure of existing metal-ion batteries by adding heat exchange tabs to form a heat exchange interface, through which the metal-ion battery can exchange heat with the external environment. Furthermore, by incorporating a temperature sensor, a heat conduction path, a heat exchange module, and a main control module, this application can actively control the temperature of the metal-ion battery based on temperature changes of the internal electrodes conducted through the heat exchange interface, ensuring that the metal-ion battery operates at its most efficient temperature for an extended period. For example, when the temperature sensor detects that the electrode temperature of the metal-ion battery pack is too low, it can actively control the heat exchange module to conduct heat into the metal-ion battery through the heat conduction path, raising the internal temperature of the metal-ion battery; conversely, when the temperature sensor detects that the temperature of the metal-ion battery pack is too high, it can actively control the heat exchange module to conduct heat out of the metal-ion battery through the heat conduction path, lowering the internal temperature of the metal-ion battery. This application solves the problem of temperature's influence on metal-ion batteries, significantly improving their safety, lifespan, and usability. Attached Figure Description

[0033] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of Embodiment 1;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the electrode structure of a single battery cell in Example 1;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the heat pump heating / cooling unit used in the heat exchange module of Embodiment 1;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration cycle state of the heat pump heating / cooling unit in Embodiment 1;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the heating / cooling unit's heating cycle state in Embodiment 1;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of Embodiment 2;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the electrode structure of a single battery cell in Example 2;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of Embodiment 3.

[0042] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0043] 100. Temperature sensor; 200. Heat conduction path; 300. Heat exchange module; 300'. Semiconductor heat source / cold source module; 310. Battery-side heat exchange unit; 311. Heat exchange fins; 312. Internal heat exchange container; 320. Circulation unit; 321. Circulation pump; 330. Heat pump heating / cooling unit; 331. Heat source / cold source heat exchanger; 332. Four-way valve; 333. Gas-liquid separator; 334. Compressor; 335. Filter; 336. External heat exchanger; 337. Two-way expansion valve; 3371. Temperature sensor; 400. Main control module; 500. Metal-ion battery pack; 510. Single cell; 511. Electrode; 512. Substrate; 513. Separator; 514. Tab; 520. Heat exchange interface; 521. Heat exchange tab. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] This specific embodiment is merely an explanation of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. After reading this specification, those skilled in the art can make modifications to this embodiment without contributing any inventive element, but as long as they are within the scope of the claims of the present utility model, they are protected by patent law.

[0046] Example 1

[0047] See Figure 1 This application provides an embodiment of an active thermal management system for metal-ion batteries, comprising: a temperature sensor 100, a heat conduction path 200, a heat exchange module 300, and a main control module 400; the metal-ion battery pack 500 includes multiple individual battery cells 510, and the electrode 511 of the individual battery cells 510 is provided with heat exchange ears 521, which are extensions of the substrate 512 in the electrode 511 and can conduct heat from the electrode 511; after all the electrode cells 511 in the metal-ion battery pack 500 are stacked, all the heat exchange ears 521 together form the heat exchange interface 520 of the metal-ion battery pack 500. The heat exchange interface 520 is the heat exchange convergence point for all the electrodes 511 inside the battery. The temperature sensor 100 is located at the heat exchange interface 520. The heat conduction path 200 is connected between the heat exchange interface 520 and the heat exchange module 300. The metal-ion battery pack 500 exchanges heat with the heat exchange module 300 through the heat exchange interface 520 and the heat conduction path 200. The main control module 400 receives the temperature monitored by the temperature sensor 100. The main control module 400 controls the heat exchange module 300 to directly heat or cool all the electrodes 511 inside the metal-ion battery pack 500 through the heat exchange interface 520 via the heat conduction path 200.

[0048] It should be noted that a complete metal-ion battery is a battery assembly composed of several metal-ion battery packs connected in series and parallel. A metal-ion battery pack (called a battery cell) is composed of multiple individual cells (called Bi-cells) repeatedly bonded and stacked in parallel. An individual cell is composed of a positive electrode + electrolyte + negative electrode bonded together on one side or both sides. The positive electrode is composed of a positive electrode substrate + positive electrode material, which is a positive electrode composed of positive electrode surface active materials such as ternary lithium, lithium iron phosphate, lithium cobalt oxide, and lithium manganese oxide bonded to the positive electrode substrate. The negative electrode is composed of a negative electrode substrate + negative electrode material, which is a negative electrode composed of negative electrode surface active materials such as graphite or mesophase carbon microspheres (MCMB) bonded to the negative electrode substrate. Solid-state batteries use a solid electrolyte, while liquid batteries consist of a liquid electrolyte, a separator, and another liquid electrolyte bonded together. The separator, placed between the liquid electrolytes in a liquid battery, acts as an isolating electrode, preventing direct contact between the surface-active materials on the two electrodes and thus avoiding short circuits inside the battery. However, the separator still needs to allow charged ions to pass through to form a pathway.

[0049] This application modifies the electrode structure of existing metal-ion batteries by adding heat exchange tabs to form a heat exchange interface, through which the metal-ion battery can exchange heat with the external environment. Furthermore, by incorporating a temperature sensor, a heat conduction path, a heat exchange module, and a main control module, this application can actively control the temperature of the metal-ion battery based on temperature changes of the internal electrodes conducted through the heat exchange interface, ensuring that the metal-ion battery operates at its most efficient temperature for an extended period. For example, if the temperature sensor detects that the electrode temperature of the metal-ion battery pack is too low through the heat exchange interface, it can actively control the heat exchange module to conduct heat into the metal-ion battery through the heat conduction path, raising the internal temperature. Conversely, if the temperature sensor detects that the electrode temperature is too high through the heat exchange interface, it can actively control the heat exchange module to conduct heat out of the metal-ion battery through the heat conduction path, lowering the internal temperature. This application solves the problem of temperature's impact on metal-ion batteries, significantly improving their safety, lifespan, and usability.

[0050] The technical specifications of this utility model are applicable to any type of metal-ion battery. It is a general metal-ion battery technology, including various metal-ion batteries in all-solid, semi-solid, or liquid states, such as ternary lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and aluminum iron phosphate batteries.

[0051] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 The electrode 511 of the battery cell 510 includes a positive electrode and / or a negative electrode. A separator 513 is provided between the positive electrode and the negative electrode of the battery cell 510.

[0052] It should be noted that in metal-ion batteries, the positive and negative electrode plates are crucial structural components constituting the positive and negative electrodes. Their function is to act as current collectors, conduct electricity, and serve as carriers for the positive and negative electrode materials. They are generally made of aluminum plates for the positive electrode and copper plates for the negative electrode. Both aluminum and copper are highly conductive and thermally conductive materials. Besides acting as current collectors, the positive and negative electrode plates in the active thermal management structure of the metal-ion battery described in this application serve as internal heat conduction media, acting as heat collection and dissipation devices. They can be equivalently understood as internal heat exchange fins. All the positive and negative electrode plates in the battery, i.e., all the internal heat exchange fins, constitute a "finned" internal heat exchanger. The heat exchange interface 520 is the convergence point of this "finned" internal heat exchanger, capable of collecting or dissipating heat within the battery.

[0053] In some embodiments, the surface of the heat exchange interface 520 is provided with an insulating thermally conductive sleeve.

[0054] It should be noted that the insulating and thermally conductive sheath has both electrical insulation and thermal conductivity properties. When placed on the surface of the heat exchange interface 520, it can ensure thermal conductivity while forming electrical insulation between the electrode 511 of the metal-ion battery and the thermal conductive path 200, thus preventing short circuits and leakage between electrodes.

[0055] In some specific implementations, when the entire heat exchange ear of the positive electrode or the entire heat exchange ear of the negative electrode is used as the heat exchange interface, an insulating thermally conductive sleeve can be used to cover the entire heat exchange ear of the positive electrode or the entire heat exchange ear of the negative electrode. When both the entire heat exchange ear of the positive electrode and the entire heat exchange ear of the negative electrode are used as the heat exchange interface, a first insulating thermally conductive sleeve can be used to cover the entire heat exchange ear of the positive electrode, and a second insulating thermally conductive sleeve can be used to cover the entire heat exchange ear of the negative electrode. The heat exchange ears of the positive electrode and the heat exchange ears of the negative electrode can be located at different positions on the substrate.

[0056] In some embodiments, the temperature sensor 100 may be a digital temperature sensor of model DS18B20. The temperature sensor 100 is used to collect the temperature at the heat exchange interface 520 to obtain the actual temperature data inside the battery, and feeds it back to the main control module 400 via signal transmission.

[0057] It should be noted that, in specific implementations, the temperature sensor 100 can be disposed in the heat exchange interface 520 in various ways: for example, the temperature sensor 100 can be disposed at each heat exchange ear 521 in the heat exchange interface 520; or the temperature sensor 100 can be disposed at some of the heat exchange ears 521 in the heat exchange interface 520; or the temperature sensor 100 can be disposed at one heat exchange ear 521 in the heat exchange interface 520, which is located at the outermost or innermost part of the metal ion battery pack 500.

[0058] In some embodiments, the heat conduction path 200 is a heat conduction pipe, heat conduction tape, heat conduction cable, or heat conduction mesh made of a high thermal conductivity metal or high thermal conductivity alloy material.

[0059] It should be noted that the heat conduction path 200 is a heat conduction component that connects the internal heat exchanger and the external heat exchanger. Its function is to transfer heat from the end with a higher temperature to the end with a lower temperature. It is usually made of copper.

[0060] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 The heat exchange module 300 includes a battery-side heat exchange unit 310, a circulation unit 320, and a heat pump heating / cooling unit 330. The battery-side heat exchange unit 310 includes heat exchange fins 311 and an internal heat exchange container 312. The internal heat exchange container 312 contains a first heat-conducting working fluid 313. The heat exchange fins 311 are immersed in the first heat-conducting working fluid 313 and are connected to the heat conduction passage 200. The circulation unit 320 is used to promote the circulation of the first heat-conducting working fluid between the battery-side heat exchange unit 310 and the heat pump heating / cooling unit 330. The heat pump heating / cooling unit 330 is used to heat or cool the first heat-conducting working fluid.

[0061] It should be noted that the internal heat exchange container 312 has an interface communicating with the circulation unit 320, thereby allowing the first heat transfer medium 313 to flow through the circulation unit 320. The heat pump heating / cooling unit 330 is used to provide both cold and heat sources, thereby enabling active thermal management based on the temperature of the metal-ion battery plates.

[0062] When the internal temperature of the battery is too high, the temperature of the electrode plate 510, which constitutes the internal heat exchanger, rises and is conducted to the heat exchange interface 520. The signal is transmitted to the main control module 400 through the temperature sensor 100. The main control module 400 controls the cold source to turn on to cool down the first heat transfer medium 313. At this time, heat is transferred from the higher temperature electrode plate 510 through the heat conduction path 200 and the heat exchange fins 311 to the lower temperature first heat transfer medium 313, thereby dissipating the heat energy accumulated inside the battery and reducing the internal temperature of the battery.

[0063] When the internal temperature of the battery is too low, the temperature of the plate 510, which constitutes the internal heat exchanger, decreases and is conducted to the heat exchange interface 520. The signal is transmitted to the main control module 400 through the temperature sensor 100. The main control module 400 controls the heat source to be turned on to raise the temperature of the first heat-conducting medium 313. At this time, heat is transferred from the higher temperature first heat-conducting medium 313 through the heat exchange fins 311 and the heat conduction path 200 to the lower temperature plate 510, thereby introducing heat energy into the battery and increasing the internal temperature of the battery.

[0064] Taking lithium-ion batteries as an example, since the optimal operating temperature range for lithium-ion batteries is 0–40°C, the main control module 400 employs the following intelligent temperature control strategy for the battery's internal temperature:

[0065] (1) The internal temperature change parameters of the battery are collected in real time by temperature sensor 100.

[0066] (2) When the internal temperature of the battery is detected to be below 0°C, the heat pump heating / cooling unit 330 is controlled to provide a heat source to start heating the first thermally conductive medium 313. Then, the heat is transferred from the heat exchange interface 520 to the electrode plate 511 inside the battery through the battery end heat exchange unit 310, so that each cell is heated. The process stops when the internal temperature of the battery reaches the holding temperature. When the internal temperature of the battery is detected to be above 40°C, the heat pump heating / cooling unit 330 is controlled to provide a cold source to start cooling the first thermally conductive medium 313. Then, the heat is dissipated from the electrode plate 511 inside the battery through the heat exchange interface 520 via the battery end heat exchange unit 310, so that each cell is cooled. The process stops when the internal temperature of the battery drops to the holding temperature.

[0067] (3) When the internal temperature of the battery is detected to be in the range of 0 to 40°C, no heating or cooling treatment is required.

[0068] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 The circulation unit 320 includes a circulation pump 321. Through the circulation pump 321 and the circulation pipeline connected thereto, the first heat transfer medium can be driven to circulate between the battery-side heat exchange unit 310 and the heat pump heating / cooling unit 330.

[0069] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 The heat pump heating / cooling unit 330 includes a heat source and a cold source heat exchanger 331. The heat source and cold source heat exchanger 331 contains a first heat-conducting working medium container and a second heat-conducting working medium container. The heat source and cold source heat exchanger 331 heats or cools the first heat-conducting working medium by exchanging heat between the first heat-conducting working medium and the second heat-conducting working medium.

[0070] In specific implementation, the heat source and cold source heat exchanger 331 can adopt a partitioned heat exchanger to realize the heat exchange between the first heat transfer medium and the second heat transfer medium, such as a tube heat exchanger or a plate heat exchanger.

[0071] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 The heat pump heating / cooling unit 330 also includes a reversing four-way valve 332, a gas-liquid separator 333, a compressor 334, a filter 335, an external heat exchanger 336, and a two-way expansion valve 337. The four-way valve 332 is connected to the first interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331, the inlet of the gas-liquid separator 333, the first interface of the external heat exchanger 336, and the outlet of the filter 335. The outlet of the gas-liquid separator 333 is connected to the inlet of the compressor 334, and the outlet of the compressor 334 is connected to the inlet of the filter 335. The two-way expansion valve 337 is connected to the second interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331 and... The second interface of the external heat exchanger 336, and the temperature sensing bulb 3371 of the bidirectional expansion valve 337 are placed at the outlet of the gas-liquid separator 333; under the control of the main control module 400, the four-way valve 332 has a first state and a second state; in the first state, the first interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source and cold source heat exchanger 331 is connected to the inlet of the gas-liquid separator 333, and the first interface of the external heat exchanger 336 is connected to the outlet of the filter 335; in the second state, the first interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source and cold source heat exchanger 331 is connected to the outlet of the filter 335, and the first interface of the external heat exchanger 336 is connected to the inlet of the gas-liquid separator 333.

[0072] In practical implementation, the four-way valve 332, in its first state, see [reference needed]. Figure 4 In the refrigeration cycle, the second working fluid flows out of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331 and then into the gas-liquid separator 333 via the four-way valve 332. The separated gas is compressed by the compressor 334, increasing its temperature and pressure. After being filtered by the filter 335, it flows back into the external heat exchanger 336 via the four-way valve 332. In the external heat exchanger 336, it dissipates heat and condenses, then flows into the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331 through the bidirectional expansion valve 337. In the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331, the second working fluid evaporates and absorbs heat, carrying away the heat from the first working fluid and cooling it down, thereby lowering the internal temperature of the battery. The temperature sensor 3371 of the four-way valve 332 senses the temperature at the inlet of the compressor 334 and controls the flow rate from the external heat exchanger 336 to the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331. When the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 3371 increases, the flow rate increases; when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 3371 decreases, the flow rate decreases, ensuring the compressor operates normally and maintaining a stable cycle.

[0073] In the second state, see four-way valve 332. Figure 5In the heating cycle, the second working fluid flows out of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331, then through the bidirectional expansion valve 337 into the external heat exchanger 336. In the external heat exchanger 336, it evaporates and absorbs heat, then flows through the four-way valve 332 into the gas-liquid separator 333. The separated gas is compressed by the compressor 334, increasing its temperature and pressure. After being filtered by the filter 335, it flows back into the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331 through the four-way valve 332. In the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331, the second working fluid condenses and releases heat, which raises the temperature of the first working fluid, thereby increasing the internal temperature of the battery. The temperature sensor 3371 of the four-way valve 332 senses the temperature at the inlet of the compressor 334 and controls the flow rate from the heat source / cold source heat exchanger 331 to the external heat exchanger 336. When the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 3371 increases, the flow rate increases; when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 3371 decreases, the flow rate decreases, ensuring normal compressor operation and maintaining stable circulation.

[0074] In practical implementation, the main control module 400 is a circuit system that includes sensor signal acquisition and the coordinated operation of various control execution components, including an embedded processor, sensor signal input interface, device component control signal output interface, and related electronic circuits.

[0075] In some embodiments, the main control module 400 can be connected to the control unit (such as the four-way valve 332) of the heat exchange module 300 via a wired connection to control the heating or cooling of the electrode 511 of all the cells 510 inside the metal-ion battery pack 500 via the heat exchange interface 520.

[0076] In some embodiments, the main control module 400 can be connected to the control unit (such as the four-way valve 332) of the heat exchange module 300 via wireless communication to control the heating or cooling of the electrode 511 of all the individual cells 510 inside the metal-ion battery pack 500.

[0077] Example 2

[0078] See Figure 6 , Figure 7 This application provides a second embodiment of an active thermal management system for metal-ion batteries. The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that the heat exchange tab 520 is disposed between the substrate 512 and the tab 514 of the positive and / or negative electrode of the cell 510.

[0079] It should be noted that, in some other embodiments, the heat exchange ear 520 may be disposed on other parts of the substrate of the positive electrode and / or negative electrode of the battery cell 510, such as the bottom surface, top surface, side surface, etc.

[0080] Example 3

[0081] See Figure 8This application provides a third embodiment of an active thermal management system for metal-ion batteries. The difference between the third embodiment and the first embodiment is that the heat exchange module 300 is a semiconductor heat source / cold source module 300'.

[0082] The semiconductor heat source and cold source module 300' utilizes the Peltier effect of semiconductor heating and cooling devices to achieve cooling and heating by changing the current scheme under the control of the main control module 400. Its application is existing technology and will not be described in detail here.

[0083] The above is only used to illustrate the technical solution of this utility model and not to limit it. Any other modifications or equivalent substitutions made by those skilled in the art to the technical solution of this utility model, as long as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solution of this utility model, should be covered within the scope of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. An active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery, characterized in that, include: The battery pack comprises a temperature sensor, a thermal conductive path, a heat exchange module, and a main control module. The metal-ion battery pack includes multiple individual cells. Each cell has an electrode with a heat exchange tab, which is an extension of the substrate within the electrode. The heat exchange tabs, when stacked, form the heat exchange interface of the metal-ion battery pack. The temperature sensor is located at the heat exchange interface. The thermal conductive path connects the heat exchange interface and the heat exchange module, allowing the metal-ion battery pack to exchange heat with the heat exchange module through the thermal conductive path. The main control module receives the temperature monitored by the temperature sensor and controls the heat exchange module to heat or cool all the electrodes within the metal-ion battery pack through the thermal conductive path.

2. The active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrode plates of the battery cell include positive electrode plates and / or negative electrode plates.

3. The active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange ear is disposed between the base of the electrode and the electrode ear, or disposed at other parts of the base of the electrode.

4. The active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface of the heat exchange interface is provided with an insulating and thermally conductive sleeve.

5. The active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat conduction path is a heat conduction pipe, heat conduction tape, heat conduction cable, or heat conduction mesh made of high thermal conductivity metal or high thermal conductivity alloy material.

6. The active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange module includes a battery-side heat exchange unit, a circulation unit, and a heat pump heating / cooling unit. The battery-side heat exchange unit includes heat exchange fins and an internal heat exchange container. The internal heat exchange container contains a first heat-conducting working fluid. The heat exchange fins are immersed in the first heat-conducting working fluid and are connected to the heat conduction path. The circulation unit is used to promote the circulation of the first heat-conducting working fluid between the battery-side heat exchange unit and the heat pump heating / cooling unit. The heat pump heating / cooling unit is used to heat or cool the first heat-conducting working fluid.

7. The active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery according to claim 6, characterized in that, The circulation unit includes a circulation pump.

8. The active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery according to claim 6, characterized in that, The heat pump heating / cooling unit includes a heat source and a cold source heat exchanger. The heat source and cold source heat exchanger contains a first heat-conducting working fluid container and a second heat-conducting working fluid container. The heat source and cold source heat exchanger heats or cools the first heat-conducting working fluid through heat exchange between the first heat-conducting working fluid and the second heat-conducting working fluid.

9. The active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heat pump heating / cooling unit also includes a reversing four-way valve, a gas-liquid separator, a compressor, a filter, an external heat exchanger, and a bidirectional expansion valve. The four-way valve is connected to the first interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger, the inlet of the gas-liquid separator, the first interface of the external heat exchanger, and the outlet of the filter. The outlet of the gas-liquid separator is connected to the inlet of the compressor, and the outlet of the compressor is connected to the inlet of the filter. The bidirectional expansion valve is connected to the second interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger and the second interface of the external heat exchanger. The temperature sensing bulb of the bidirectional expansion valve is placed at the outlet of the gas-liquid separator. Under the control of the main control module, the four-way valve has a first state and a second state; in the first state, the first interface of the second heat transfer medium of the heat source and cold source heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the gas-liquid separator, and the first interface of the external heat exchanger is connected to the outlet of the filter; In the second state, the first interface of the second heat-conducting working fluid of the heat source / cold source heat exchanger is connected to the outlet of the filter, and the first interface of the external heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the gas-liquid separator.

10. The active thermal management system for a metal-ion battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange module is a semiconductor heat source / cold source module.

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