Battery device and vehicle
By setting up heat insulation and heat exchange components between battery cells, and utilizing phase change materials and heat exchange pipes, the problem of low battery thermal management efficiency is solved, and uniform temperature regulation and stability improvement of the battery are achieved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CONTEMPORARY SYNLAND TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-08-14
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-10
AI Technical Summary
The thermal management components of existing battery devices have low thermal efficiency, which leads to increased battery temperature and affects operating efficiency and stability.
A heat insulation component is provided between adjacent battery cells, including a heat insulation plate, a porous substrate and a first phase change material. It exchanges heat with the heat exchange medium through a first heat exchange pipe, and heat exchange components are provided on both sides of the battery module to regulate the temperature.
It improves the heat exchange efficiency of individual battery cells, reduces heat transfer between battery cells, reduces the risk of thermal runaway, enhances the operational stability and temperature uniformity of the battery module, and extends battery life.
Smart Images

Figure CN224481012U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a battery device and a vehicle. Background Technology
[0002] With the development of new energy technologies, batteries are being used more and more widely. For example, in electric vehicles, electric trains, and electric ships.
[0003] Batteries generate a significant amount of heat during operation, and this heat accumulation leads to increased battery temperature and reduced operating efficiency. Therefore, thermal management components are needed to regulate battery temperature. Improving the efficiency of these components is currently a key research area in this field. Utility Model Content
[0004] In view of the above problems, this application provides a battery device and a vehicle that can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the battery device and enhance the stability of the vehicle during operation.
[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a battery device, including a battery module and a heat insulation component. The battery module includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in sequence. The heat insulation component is disposed between two adjacent battery cells. The heat insulation component includes a heat insulation plate with a receiving cavity inside, and a first phase change material and a porous substrate are disposed inside the receiving cavity. The pores of the porous substrate are used to adsorb the first phase change material, and the first phase change material is used to exchange heat with the battery cells. A first heat exchange pipe is also provided inside the receiving cavity, which penetrates the receiving cavity and extends to the outside of the heat insulation component for the flow of a heat exchange medium. At least a portion of the wall of the first heat exchange pipe is in direct contact with the first phase change material to realize heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the first phase change material.
[0006] In some embodiments, the cavity is provided with a flow-blocking structure that divides the cavity into an upper porous substrate fixing area and a lower phase change material initial filling area. The porous substrate is fixedly disposed in the fixing area, and the phase change material is initially filled in the filling area. The flow-blocking structure allows the molten phase change material to permeate upward into the porous substrate through capillary action, thereby preventing the liquid phase change material from flowing downward.
[0007] In some embodiments, the porous substrate includes at least one of metal foam, graphene porous material, or ceramic aerogel.
[0008] In some embodiments, the first heat exchange pipe extends in a continuously curved manner within the receiving cavity, the heat insulation component is disposed on the side of the battery cell along the first direction, and both ends of the first heat exchange pipe extend from the same side of the heat insulation component along the second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to each other.
[0009] In some embodiments, the battery device further includes a supply pipe and a collection pipe. The supply pipe is disposed on one side of the heat insulation assembly along the second direction, and a first hole is formed in the supply pipe. The collection pipe is disposed at a distance from the supply pipe on the same side along the second direction, and a second hole is formed in the collection pipe. The inlet end of the first heat exchange pipe is connected to the supply pipe through the first hole, and the outlet end of the first heat exchange pipe is connected to the collection pipe through the second hole. The supply pipe, the first heat exchange pipe, and the collection pipe are connected in series to form a fluid passage.
[0010] In some embodiments, the heat insulation assembly further includes an inlet connection pipe and an outlet connection pipe. The inlet connection pipe is connected between the inlet end of the first heat exchange pipe and the first hole of the supply pipe. The outlet connection pipe is connected between the outlet end of the first heat exchange pipe and the second hole of the collecting pipe. The inlet connection pipe is detachably connected to the supply pipe, and the outlet connection pipe is detachably connected to the collecting pipe.
[0011] In some embodiments, the battery device further includes a heat exchange assembly disposed on one side of the battery module along a third direction, wherein the third direction is perpendicular to both the first and second directions. The heat exchange assembly includes a heat exchange plate having a sealed cavity, within which a second phase change material is disposed, the second phase change material being used for heat exchange with the battery cells.
[0012] In some embodiments, the heat exchange assembly further includes a second heat exchange pipe disposed within a sealed cavity, at least a portion of the pipe wall of the second heat exchange pipe being in direct contact with the second phase change material, and both ends of the second heat exchange pipe extending to the outside of the heat exchange plate for connecting to a heat exchange medium circulation system.
[0013] In some embodiments, the first phase change material includes at least one of paraffin, fatty acid, or molten salt, and / or the second phase change material includes at least one of paraffin, fatty acid, or molten salt.
[0014] In some embodiments, the second heat exchange pipe includes a first straight section, a second straight section, and a curved section. The first straight section and the second straight section are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart along a first direction, and the curved section connects adjacent first ends of the first straight section and the second straight section. The second ends of the first straight section and the second straight section extend along a second direction to the outside of the heat exchange plate, and the curved section is disposed within a sealing cavity.
[0015] In some embodiments, the supply pipe is provided with a third hole and a fourth hole, and the second ends of the two straight sections are respectively connected to the third hole and the fourth hole to connect the second heat exchange pipe in parallel with the supply pipe. Alternatively, the collecting pipe is provided with a fifth hole and a sixth hole, and the second ends of the two straight sections are respectively connected to the fifth hole and the sixth hole to connect the second heat exchange pipe in parallel with the collecting pipe.
[0016] Secondly, this application provides a vehicle that includes the battery device in any of the above embodiments.
[0017] The battery device provided in the embodiments of this application improves the heat exchange efficiency of battery cells by setting a heat insulation component between adjacent battery cells. Furthermore, the heat insulation component can reduce heat transfer between battery cells. In the event of thermal runaway in one battery cell, it can block the rapid transfer of heat, reducing the risk of adjacent battery cells also experiencing thermal runaway, thus improving the operational stability of the battery module. Further, by setting a first phase change material in the heat insulation component, heat from the battery cells can be rapidly absorbed, improving heat exchange efficiency. The porous substrate is used to adsorb the first phase change material, reducing the risk of the first phase change material moving and accumulating in one place during melting, thereby reducing heat accumulation in the battery cells due to vacancies in the first phase change material and improving the temperature uniformity of the battery cells. Setting a first heat exchange pipe within the heat insulation plate enables heat exchange with the first phase change material, improving the efficiency of heat exchange and further enhancing the heat exchange efficiency of the heat insulation component.
[0018] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description
[0019] Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar features, and the drawings are not drawn to scale.
[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery device provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery module and a heat insulation component provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0022] Figure 3 A partial structural schematic diagram of a battery module and a heat insulation component provided for another embodiment of this application;
[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat insulation component provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat insulation component provided in another embodiment of this application;
[0025] Figure 6 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a battery device provided in another embodiment of this application;
[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a liquid supply pipe provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a liquid collecting tube provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat exchange component provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0029] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second heat exchange pipe provided in one embodiment of this application.
[0030] Detailed explanation of the reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0031] 1. Battery assembly; 2. Battery module; 3. Heat insulation component; 301. Heat insulation plate; 302. First heat exchange pipe; 303. Receiving cavity; 304. Flow obstruction structure; 305. Fixing area; 306. Filling area; 307. Liquid inlet connection pipe; 308. Liquid outlet connection pipe; 4. Heat exchange component; 401. Heat exchange plate; 402. Second heat exchange pipe; 403. Sealing cavity; 404. First straight section; 405. Second straight section; 406. Bending section; 5. Housing; 501. First housing; 502. Second housing; 503. Receiving space; 6. Battery cell; 7. Liquid supply pipe; 701. First hole; 702. Third hole; 703. Fourth hole; 8. Liquid collection pipe; 801. Second hole; 802. Fifth hole; 803. Sixth hole; X, First direction; Y, Second direction; Z, Third direction. Detailed Implementation
[0032] The features and exemplary embodiments of various aspects of this utility model will now be described in detail. To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, will provide a further detailed description. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of this utility model and are not intended to limit it. Those skilled in the art will recognize that this utility model can be implemented without some of these specific details. The following description of the embodiments is merely intended to provide a better understanding of this utility model by illustrating examples of it.
[0033] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising..." does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.
[0034] It should be understood that when describing the structure of a component, when referring to a layer or region as being "above" or "on top of" another layer or region, it can mean that it is directly above the other layer or region, or that it contains other layers or regions between it and the other layer or region. Furthermore, if the component is flipped over, that layer or region will be located "below" or "under" the other layer or region.
[0035] The features and exemplary embodiments of various aspects of this utility model will now be described in detail. Furthermore, the features, structures, or characteristics described below may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0036] In related technologies, the thermal management components in battery devices have low thermal efficiency. For example, cold-rolled steel plates with profile structures are thick and heavy, resulting in low fluid heat dissipation efficiency. Cold-rolled steel plate structures formed by blow molding have low structural strength, limited load-bearing capacity, and low heat exchange efficiency.
[0037] In view of the above, embodiments of this application provide a battery device in which a heat insulation component is provided between adjacent battery cells, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cells. Furthermore, the heat insulation component can reduce heat transfer between battery cells, and in the event of thermal runaway in one battery cell, it can block the rapid transfer of heat, reducing the risk of adjacent battery cells being affected and also experiencing thermal runaway, thus improving the operational stability of the battery module. Further, by incorporating a first phase change material in the heat insulation component, the heat from the battery cells can be rapidly absorbed, improving heat exchange efficiency. A porous substrate is used to adsorb the first phase change material, reducing the risk of the first phase change material moving and accumulating in one place during melting, thereby reducing heat accumulation in the battery cells due to vacancies in the first phase change material, and improving the temperature uniformity of the battery cells. A first heat exchange pipe is provided within the heat insulation plate, enabling heat exchange with the first phase change material, improving the efficiency of heat exchange, and further enhancing the heat exchange efficiency of the heat insulation component.
[0038] Please refer to the reference. Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery device provided in one embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery module and a heat insulation component provided in one embodiment of this application. Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of a battery module and a heat insulation component provided in another embodiment of this application. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat insulation component provided in one embodiment of this application.
[0039] As shown in the figure, the battery device 1 of this application embodiment includes a battery module 2 and a heat insulation component 3. The battery module 2 includes a plurality of battery cells 6 arranged in sequence. The heat insulation component 3 is disposed between two adjacent battery cells 6. The heat insulation component 3 includes a heat insulation plate 301 with a receiving cavity 303 inside, and a first phase change material and a porous substrate are disposed inside the receiving cavity 303. The pores of the porous substrate are used to adsorb the first phase change material, and the first phase change material is used to exchange heat with the battery cells 6. A first heat exchange pipe 302 is also provided inside the receiving cavity 303. The first heat exchange pipe 302 penetrates the receiving cavity 303 and extends to the outside of the heat insulation component 3 for the flow of heat exchange medium. At least a portion of the pipe wall of the first heat exchange pipe 302 is in direct contact with the first phase change material to realize heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the first phase change material.
[0040] Optionally, the battery device 1 further includes a housing 5, which includes a first housing 501 and a second housing 502. The first housing 501 and the second housing 502 are fastened together to form a closed space inside the housing 5 to house the battery module 2. Here, "closed" refers to covering or closing, and can be sealed or unsealed. The first housing 501 can be a top cover or a bottom plate. As an example, the housing 5 may include a top cover, a frame, and a bottom plate. The top cover and the bottom plate are respectively connected to the frame, so that a receiving space 503 is formed inside the housing 5 to house the battery module 2.
[0041] The battery module 2 is composed of multiple battery cells 6 arranged sequentially. This arrangement is the basic structure for the battery module 2 to realize energy storage and power supply functions. The combination of multiple battery cells 6 can provide sufficient voltage and power to meet the needs of different devices. For example, the battery cells 6 can be arranged sequentially along their own thickness direction.
[0042] The heat insulation component 3 includes a heat insulation plate 301, which can be two plate structures arranged opposite each other. A groove is formed in the plate, and the two plate structures are circumferentially sealed to each other and enclose an internal receiving cavity 303.
[0043] The pores of the porous substrate can adsorb the first phase change material. This first phase change material possesses unique thermophysical properties; when the temperature of the battery cell 6 rises, it can absorb heat and undergo a phase change (e.g., from solid to liquid), thus effectively controlling the temperature rise of the battery cell 6. When the temperature of the battery cell 6 decreases, the first phase change material releases heat and undergoes a reverse phase change (e.g., from liquid to solid), maintaining the relative stability of the temperature of the battery cell 6. The porous substrate not only adsorbs and fixes the first phase change material but also increases the contact area between the first phase change material and the surrounding environment, improving heat exchange efficiency.
[0044] A heat exchange medium (such as coolant) flows within the first heat exchange pipe 302, exchanging heat with the surrounding environment through the pipe. At least a portion of the wall of the first heat exchange pipe 302 is in direct contact with the first phase change material. This design allows direct heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the first phase change material. When the first phase change material absorbs or releases heat, it can quickly transfer heat to the heat exchange medium or obtain heat from the heat exchange medium, further enhancing the thermal management capability of the battery device 1.
[0045] The heat insulation component 3 is disposed between adjacent battery cells 6. The heat insulation plate 301 itself and the characteristics of the first phase change material during the phase change process can effectively prevent the rapid transfer of heat between adjacent battery cells 6. This helps to avoid a chain reaction of overheating of surrounding battery cells 6 caused by overheating of one battery cell 6, reduces the risk of thermal runaway of the battery module 2, and improves the safety and reliability of the battery device 1.
[0046] The first phase change material absorbs or releases a large amount of heat through a phase change process, enabling it to quickly respond to temperature changes in the battery cell 6 and regulate its temperature. Simultaneously, the porous substrate increases the heat exchange area of the first phase change material, improving heat exchange efficiency. The first heat exchange pipe 302 is in direct contact with the first phase change material, allowing the heat exchange medium to directly exchange heat with it, further accelerating heat transfer and dissipation. This multi-layered thermal management design ensures that the battery cell 6 operates within a suitable temperature range, improving battery performance and lifespan.
[0047] Through the phase change heat absorption and release of the first phase change material and the flow of the heat exchange medium, the temperature of each battery cell 6 within the battery module 2 can be made more uniform. Simultaneously, a porous substrate is used to adsorb the first phase change material, reducing the risk of the first phase change material moving and accumulating in one place during melting. This reduces heat accumulation in the battery cells 6 due to vacancies in the first phase change material, improving the temperature uniformity of the battery cells 6. Uniform temperature distribution helps reduce performance differences between battery cells 6, improving the consistency and overall performance of the battery module 2, and reducing the risk of inconsistent battery performance degradation due to excessively high or low local temperatures.
[0048] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, a flow-blocking structure 304 is provided in the receiving cavity 303, which divides the receiving cavity 303 into an upper porous substrate fixing area 305 and a lower phase change material initial filling area 306. The porous substrate is fixedly disposed in the fixing area 305, and the phase change material is initially filled in the filling area 306. The flow-blocking structure 304 allows the molten phase change material to permeate upward into the porous substrate through capillary action, thereby preventing the liquid phase change material from flowing downward.
[0049] For example, the flow-blocking structure 304 includes a porous metal filter or a microporous ceramic plate, wherein the pore size of the porous metal filter or the microporous ceramic plate is smaller than the pore size of the porous substrate. The flow-blocking structure 304 can be fixedly connected to the heat insulation plate 301 by adhesive bonding or welding.
[0050] The porous substrate fixing region 305 is located in the upper part of the receiving cavity 303 along the direction of gravity, and the porous substrate is firmly fixed in this region. The porous substrate has a rich pore structure, providing space for the subsequent filling and adsorption of phase change materials. Its material can be metal foam, graphene porous material, or ceramic aerogel, etc.
[0051] The initial filling region 306 of the phase change material is located in the lower part of the receiving cavity 303 along the direction of gravity. In the initial state, the phase change material fills this region in solid form. The phase change material has the property of undergoing a phase change within a specific temperature range and absorbing or releasing a large amount of heat.
[0052] The first phase change material, uniformly filled in the porous substrate, can fully contact the porous substrate, which in turn is in close proximity to the battery cell 6. When the temperature of the battery cell 6 rises, heat can be rapidly transferred to the phase change material, causing it to undergo a phase change and absorb heat; when the temperature of the battery cell 6 decreases, the phase change material can rapidly release heat, effectively controlling the temperature change of the battery cell 6 and improving the performance and safety of the battery.
[0053] In some embodiments of this application, the porous substrate includes at least one of metal foam, graphene porous material, or ceramic aerogel.
[0054] Metal foam is a porous material with a three-dimensional network structure, commonly including copper foam and aluminum foam. Its numerous interconnected pores provide ample adsorption space for the first phase change material (PCT). When metal foam is combined with the PCT, the PCT can fully fill the pores of the metal foam, forming a stable composite structure. Its three-dimensional network structure firmly secures the PCT, preventing it from easily detaching or leaking even when the battery device 1 is subjected to external forces such as vibration or impact, thus ensuring the stability of the thermal insulation component 3.
[0055] Graphene possesses a unique two-dimensional sheet structure, which can be fabricated into porous materials with abundant pores through specific processes. Graphene porous materials not only have a high specific surface area, providing numerous adhesion sites for the first phase change material (PCT), but also exhibit excellent thermal conductivity. In battery device 1, the combination of graphene porous material and the PCT ensures stable adsorption of the PCT while simultaneously promoting heat transfer through its own thermal conductivity. The high specific surface area allows the PCT to adhere tightly to the surface and pores of the graphene sheets, forming a stable adsorption structure. This stable adsorption helps maintain the performance of the PCT during long-term use of battery device 1, reducing the degradation of thermal management effectiveness caused by leakage or uneven distribution of the PCT.
[0056] Ceramic aerogel is a lightweight, porous solid material with extremely low density and extremely high porosity. Its complex internal pore structure and small size enable effective adsorption of the first phase change material (PCT). Ceramic aerogel also possesses excellent thermal insulation properties. In the battery device 1, when used in conjunction with the PCT, it can reduce heat transfer between adjacent battery cells 6 by utilizing its thermal insulation properties, and simultaneously regulate the temperature of the battery cells 6 by adsorbing the PCT. The extremely small pore size and complex pore structure generate a strong adsorption force on the PCT, ensuring that the PCT is uniformly distributed and stably present within the ceramic aerogel. Furthermore, the ceramic aerogel exhibits good chemical stability and will not react chemically with the PCT, further guaranteeing the stability of the adsorption.
[0057] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the first heat exchange pipe 302 extends in a continuously curved shape within the receiving cavity 303, the heat insulation component 3 is disposed on the side of the battery cell 6 along the first direction X, and both ends of the first heat exchange pipe 302 extend from the same side of the heat insulation component 3 along the second direction Y, wherein the first direction X and the second direction Y are perpendicular to each other.
[0058] For example, the first direction X is the thickness direction of the battery cell 6, and the second direction Y is the height direction of the battery cell 6.
[0059] The continuously curved pipe design makes the heat transfer path more complex and uniform. During the flow of heat within the pipe, it can fully exchange heat with the surrounding medium, avoiding problems such as localized heat accumulation or poor heat transfer. Compared to straight pipes, curved pipes allow for more uniform heat distribution and transfer within the receiving cavity 303, improving the stability and reliability of the entire thermal management system. For example, the flow path of the first heat exchange pipe 302 can be serpentine, spiral, or wavy.
[0060] The receiving cavity 303 is the space inside the heat insulation component 3 for accommodating the first phase change material, the porous substrate, and arranging the first heat exchange pipe 302. The first heat exchange pipe 302 extends in a curved path, and the degree of curvature and layout of the first heat exchange pipe 302 can be flexibly adjusted according to the actual space conditions of the battery device 1 to ensure that thermal management requirements are met while not interfering with other components inside the battery device 1.
[0061] Both ends of the first heat exchange pipe 302 extend from the same side of the heat insulation component 3 along the second direction Y, so that the connection ports of the pipe are concentrated in one area. When installing the battery device 1, the first heat exchange pipe 302 only needs to be connected to the external heat exchange system in this concentrated area, making the operation more convenient and faster, and reducing installation time and difficulty.
[0062] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the battery device 1 further includes a liquid supply pipe 7 and a liquid collection pipe 8. The liquid supply pipe 7 is disposed on one side of the heat insulation component 3 along the second direction Y, and a first hole 701 is formed on the liquid supply pipe 7. The liquid collection pipe 8 is disposed at a distance from the liquid supply pipe 7 on the same side along the second direction Y, and a second hole 801 is formed on the liquid collection pipe 8. The inlet end of the first heat exchange pipe 302 is connected to the liquid supply pipe 7 through the first hole 701, and the outlet end of the first heat exchange pipe 302 is connected to the liquid collection pipe 8 through the second hole 801. The liquid supply pipe 7, the first heat exchange pipe 302, and the liquid collection pipe 8 are connected in series to form a fluid passage.
[0063] The fluid pathway formed by the supply pipe 7, the first heat exchange pipe 302, and the collecting pipe 8 continuously and stably provides coolant or heat exchange medium to the first heat exchange pipe 302. As the coolant flows within the first heat exchange pipe 302, it rapidly absorbs the heat generated by the battery cells 6. When the battery is under high load, this efficient heat transfer effectively prevents overheating, ensuring battery performance and safety.
[0064] The liquid supply pipe 7 and the liquid collection pipe 8 are located on the same side of the heat insulation component 3 along the second direction Y, and are connected to the first heat exchange pipe 302 through the first hole 701 and the second hole 801. This makes full use of the side space of the battery device 1, making the structure of the entire system more compact. Within the limited volume of the battery device 1, a reasonable arrangement of fluid passages is achieved without occupying too much additional space. While ensuring the heat exchange effect, the spatial energy density of the battery device 1 is improved.
[0065] Optionally, there are multiple heat insulation components 3, with one heat insulation component 3 corresponding to each pair of adjacent battery cells 6. The multiple heat insulation components 3 are spaced apart along the first direction X, and the liquid supply pipe 7 extends along the first direction X, as does the liquid collection pipe 8. The liquid supply pipe 7 has multiple first holes 701, and the liquid collection pipe 8 has multiple second holes 801. Multiple first heat exchange pipes 302 in the multiple heat insulation components 3 are respectively connected to the liquid supply pipe 7 and the liquid collection pipe 8, and the multiple first heat exchange pipes 302 are connected in parallel sequentially through the liquid collection pipe 8 and the liquid supply pipe 7.
[0066] The aforementioned layout, by placing heat insulation components 3 between adjacent battery cells 6, effectively blocks heat conduction between the battery cells 6, reducing heat accumulation inside the battery pack. Simultaneously, the first heat exchange pipe 302 in the heat insulation component 3 is connected to the liquid supply pipe 7 and the liquid collection pipe 8 to form a coolant circulation system, which can promptly remove the heat generated by the battery cells 6, achieving efficient heat dissipation. This combination of heat insulation and heat dissipation helps maintain the battery cells 6 within a suitable operating temperature range, improving battery performance and lifespan.
[0067] Because multiple first heat exchange pipes 302 are connected in parallel, each heat insulation component 3 can independently exchange heat, making the flow of coolant in each heat insulation component 3 more uniform, thus ensuring that the cooling effect of each battery cell 6 is basically consistent. This helps to reduce the temperature difference between different battery cells 6 in the battery pack, avoids inconsistent battery performance caused by uneven temperature, and improves the stability and reliability of the entire battery pack. The parallel connection design makes the first heat exchange pipes 302 of each heat insulation component 3 relatively independent. When a heat insulation component 3 or its connected first heat exchange pipe 302 fails, it will not affect the normal operation of other heat insulation components 3, improving the reliability of the entire cooling system. In addition, this modular design facilitates the maintenance and repair of the battery device 1. When a component needs to be replaced or repaired, the operation can be carried out specifically without large-scale disassembly of the entire system, reducing maintenance costs and time.
[0068] Furthermore, the liquid supply pipe 7 and the liquid collection pipe 8 extend in the same direction and are matched with the heat insulation components 3 that are spaced apart along the first direction X, making the entire system structure more compact. This compact design helps save space, especially in battery applications where space is critical, improving space utilization and providing more spatial flexibility for other components or the overall layout of the battery pack.
[0069] In some embodiments of this application, the heat insulation assembly 3 further includes an inlet connection pipe 307 and an outlet connection pipe 308. The inlet connection pipe 307 is connected between the inlet end of the first heat exchange pipe 302 and the first hole 701 of the supply pipe 7. The outlet connection pipe 308 is connected between the outlet end of the first heat exchange pipe 302 and the second hole 801 of the collecting pipe 8. The inlet connection pipe 307 is detachably connected to the supply pipe 7, and the outlet connection pipe 308 is detachably connected to the collecting pipe 8.
[0070] The liquid connection pipe is configured between the inlet end of the first heat exchange pipe 302 and the first hole 701 of the liquid supply pipe 7, serving as a bridge to accurately guide the coolant or heat exchange medium in the liquid supply pipe 7 to the inlet end of the first heat exchange pipe 302.
[0071] The inlet pipe 307 and the supply pipe 7 are detachably connected. This detachable connection can be achieved in several common ways. For example, a clamp connection can be used to clamp the inlet pipe 307 and the supply pipe 7 together, ensuring a tight seal at the connection. Alternatively, a threaded connection can be used, with internal and external threads respectively provided at the connection ends of the inlet pipe 307 and the supply pipe 7, and the connection can be achieved by rotating and tightening. Quick couplings can also be used, allowing for quick and convenient connection and disassembly.
[0072] The outlet connection pipe 308 is connected between the outlet end of the first heat exchange pipe 302 and the second hole 801 of the liquid collecting pipe 8. Its function is to discharge the fluid after heat exchange in the first heat exchange pipe 302 from the outlet end and introduce it into the liquid collecting pipe 8. The outlet connection pipe 308 is also detachably connected to the liquid collecting pipe 8. The connection method is similar to that of the inlet connection pipe 307 and the supply pipe 7. Detachable connection structures such as clamps, threads, or quick couplings can be selected according to actual needs.
[0073] The detachable inlet and outlet pipes 307 and 308 make the battery device 1 more flexible during installation. During assembly, the main components, such as the supply pipe 7, the collecting pipe 8, and the first heat exchange pipe 302, can be installed first, and then the inlet and outlet pipes 307 and 308 can be connected to their respective positions according to the actual situation. This step-by-step installation method reduces installation difficulty and is especially suitable for installation environments with limited or complex spaces, thus improving installation efficiency.
[0074] like Figure 6 as well as Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the battery device 1 further includes a heat exchange assembly 4 disposed on the battery module 2 along the third direction Z, wherein the third direction Z is perpendicular to both the first direction X and the second direction Y. The heat exchange assembly 4 includes a heat exchange plate 401 having a sealed cavity 403, wherein a second phase change material is disposed within the sealed cavity 403, and the second phase change material is used for heat exchange with the battery cell 6.
[0075] For example, the third direction Z can be the width direction of the battery cell 6.
[0076] Optionally, the heat exchange plate 401 is disposed on one side of the plurality of battery cells 6 and is connected to the plurality of heat insulation plates 301 respectively.
[0077] Optionally, the number of heat exchange components 4 is two, and the two heat exchange components 4 are respectively located on both sides of the battery module 2 along the third direction Z.
[0078] Optionally, the two heat exchange components 4 are a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger, respectively. The liquid supply pipe 7 is located on one side of the first heat exchanger along the second direction Y, and the liquid collection pipe 8 is located on one side of the second heat exchanger along the second direction Y.
[0079] The sealed cavity 403 of the heat exchange component 4 provides a stable containment space 503 for the second phase change material, allowing it to flow within it and thus perform heat exchange.
[0080] The second phase change material possesses unique thermophysical properties, enabling it to react rapidly to minute temperature changes in the battery cell 6. When the temperature of the battery cell 6 rises due to heat generated during charging and discharging, the second phase change material immediately absorbs heat and undergoes a phase change, effectively suppressing a sharp increase in battery temperature. Conversely, when the temperature of the battery cell 6 decreases, the second phase change material can promptly release heat, preventing the battery temperature from becoming too low and ensuring that the battery always operates within a suitable temperature range, thereby improving battery performance and safety.
[0081] The heat exchange plate 401 is in close contact with the battery module 2. During the phase change process, the second phase change material can absorb or release heat evenly, making the temperature of each battery cell 6 in the battery module 2 more uniform. This helps to reduce the problem of inconsistent battery performance caused by excessive temperature differences in the battery cells 6, extend the overall service life of the battery, and improve the reliability and stability of the battery pack.
[0082] Compared to thermal management systems that rely on forced convection heat transfer, the second phase change material utilizes its own latent heat of phase change for heat exchange, eliminating the need for additional energy input to drive fluid flow. This reduces the energy consumption of the battery device 1 and improves energy efficiency. The heat exchange component 4 is located on the Z-axis side of the battery module 2, without occupying internal space, making the overall structure of the battery device 1 more compact.
[0083] In some embodiments of this application, the heat exchange assembly 4 further includes a second heat exchange pipe 402, which is disposed in the sealing cavity 403. At least a portion of the pipe wall of the second heat exchange pipe 402 is in direct contact with the second phase change material. Both ends of the second heat exchange pipe 402 extend to the outside of the heat exchange plate 401 for connecting to the heat exchange medium circulation system.
[0084] The second phase change material can absorb or release a large amount of heat during the phase change process, while the heat exchange medium in the second heat exchange pipe 402 can quickly carry away or bring in heat through forced convection. The two heat exchange mechanisms complement each other and work together to greatly improve the overall heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange component 4, enabling faster and more effective regulation of the temperature of the battery module 2, keeping it within a suitable operating range.
[0085] At least a portion of the wall of the second heat exchange pipe 402 is in direct contact with the second phase change material, reducing intermediate steps and thermal resistance in the heat transfer process. Compared with traditional indirect heat transfer methods such as through metal plates, direct contact allows heat to be transferred more rapidly from the second phase change material to the heat exchange medium within the second heat exchange pipe 402, or from the heat exchange medium to the second phase change material, further improving heat exchange efficiency.
[0086] In some embodiments of this application, the first phase change material includes at least one of paraffin, fatty acid, or molten salt, and / or the second phase change material includes at least one of paraffin, fatty acid, or molten salt.
[0087] Paraffin wax has a wide phase transition temperature range. By selecting paraffin waxes with different carbon chain lengths, their phase transition temperatures can be kept within a suitable range to meet the temperature regulation requirements of batteries under different operating conditions. Paraffin wax can absorb or release a large amount of heat during phase transitions, meaning that a small amount of paraffin wax can achieve effective heat regulation. During the frequent charging and discharging of individual battery cells, the temperature constantly changes. Paraffin wax can maintain stable physical and chemical properties over a wide temperature range and will not decompose or deteriorate due to repeated temperature changes.
[0088] The phase transition temperature of fatty acids can be achieved by altering their molecular structure. For example, by increasing or decreasing the number of carbon atoms in a fatty acid molecule or introducing double bonds, its phase transition temperature can be precisely adjusted to meet the specific temperature regulation requirements of different types of batteries. This adjustability gives fatty acids greater flexibility in various battery thermal management applications. Fatty acids also possess a large latent heat of phase transition, enabling them to effectively absorb and release heat during the phase transition process. A small amount of fatty acid can achieve a significant thermal regulation effect, helping to improve the thermal management efficiency of battery device 1 while reducing the amount of phase change material used and its space occupation.
[0089] Optionally, fatty acids can be combined with other phase change materials, thermally conductive enhancing materials, etc., to form composite phase change materials with better performance. For example, combining fatty acids with thermally conductive materials such as graphite and carbon nanotubes can improve the thermal conductivity of the phase change material, accelerate the heat transfer rate, and further enhance the thermal management effect of battery device 1.
[0090] Molten salts typically have high melting points, enabling them to maintain stable phase change performance at high temperatures. For batteries operating under high-temperature conditions, such as high-temperature fuel cells and certain special-purpose energy storage batteries, molten salts can serve as ideal phase change materials, effectively absorbing and storing the heat generated at high temperatures and preventing damage from overheating. Molten salts possess a large latent heat of phase change, allowing them to absorb or release significant amounts of heat during the phase change process. Molten salts generally exhibit good thermal conductivity, enabling them to rapidly transfer the absorbed or released heat to the second heat exchange pipe 402, further enhancing heat exchange efficiency when used in conjunction with the second heat exchange pipe 402.
[0091] Therefore, by rationally selecting and combining phase change materials, the advantages of various materials can be fully utilized to achieve efficient and reliable thermal management of the battery device 1.
[0092] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the second heat exchange pipe 402 includes a first straight section 404, a second straight section 405, and a curved section 406. The first straight section 404 and the second straight section 405 are arranged parallel to each other along a first direction X, and the curved section 406 connects adjacent first ends of the first straight section 404 and the second straight section 405. The second ends of the first straight section 404 and the second straight section 405 extend along a second direction Y to the outside of the heat exchange plate 401, and the curved section 406 is disposed within the sealing cavity 403.
[0093] The first straight section 404 and the second straight section 405 are arranged parallel to each other along the first direction X and spaced apart. This parallel and spaced arrangement provides a stable channel for the flow of the heat exchange medium in the pipeline, and also creates favorable conditions for heat exchange with the second phase change material in the sealing cavity 403. The parallel arrangement makes the contact area between the two straight sections and the second phase change material relatively uniform, which is conducive to uniform heat transfer. The curved section 406 connects the adjacent first ends of the first straight section 404 and the second straight section 405. The existence of the curved section 406 not only connects the two straight sections, but also changes the flow direction of the heat exchange medium, so that the medium forms a certain flow path in the sealing cavity 403, enhances the disturbance between the medium and the second phase change material, and thus improves the heat exchange efficiency. The curved section 406 is set in the sealing cavity 403, and the second ends of the first straight section 404 and the second straight section 405 extend to the outside of the heat exchange plate 401 and connect with the heat exchange medium circulation system. This design reduces the number of connection points of the pipeline outside the heat exchange plate 401 and reduces the risk of heat exchange medium leakage. Meanwhile, the sealing cavity 403 can provide some protection for the curved section 406, preventing it from being damaged by the external environment and improving the reliability of the second heat exchange pipe 402.
[0094] Optionally, there may be multiple second heat exchange pipes 402, which are spaced apart along the first direction X within the sealing cavity 403.
[0095] The arrangement of multiple second heat exchange pipes 402 increases the contact area between the heat exchange medium and the second phase change material within the sealed cavity 403. Each second heat exchange pipe 402 has its own surface area for heat exchange with the phase change material, and the total heat exchange area increases exponentially as the number of pipes increases. A larger heat exchange area means that more heat can be transferred between the heat exchange medium and the second phase change material in the same amount of time, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the entire heat exchange assembly 4 and enabling faster and more effective temperature regulation of the battery module 2.
[0096] Multiple second heat exchange pipes 402 are spaced apart along the first direction X, creating a more complex and rational path for the flow of the heat exchange medium within the sealed cavity 403. As the heat exchange medium flows through each pipe, different flow field distributions are formed around the pipes. The gaps between adjacent pipes cause more turbulence and disturbances during the flow process. This turbulence can disrupt the fluid boundary layer, enhance heat transfer between the medium and the pipe walls and the second phase change material, and further improve the heat exchange effect. Compared to a single pipe, the multi-pipe layout can make fuller use of the space within the sealed cavity 403, allowing for more thorough heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the phase change material.
[0097] Multiple second heat exchange pipes 402 are evenly distributed within the sealed cavity 403, and they can simultaneously absorb or release heat from different locations. During the operation of the battery module 2, the heat generated in different parts may vary, and the multiple second heat exchange pipes 402 can regulate these local heats separately, improving the temperature uniformity of the battery module.
[0098] In some embodiments of this application, the liquid supply pipe 7 is provided with a third hole 702 and a fourth hole 703, and the second ends of the two straight sections are respectively connected to the third hole 702 and the fourth hole 703 to connect the second heat exchange pipe 402 in parallel with the liquid supply pipe 7. In other embodiments, the liquid collecting pipe 8 is provided with a fifth hole 802 and a sixth hole 803, and the second ends of the two straight sections are respectively connected to the fifth hole 802 and the sixth hole 803 to connect the second heat exchange pipe 402 in parallel with the liquid collecting pipe 8.
[0099] Optionally, there are at least two second heat exchange pipes 402, which are respectively located on both sides of the battery cell 6 along the third direction Z, and are respectively connected to the liquid supply pipe 7 and the liquid collection pipe 8.
[0100] In the above structure, the second heat exchange tube is connected in parallel with the liquid supply tube 7. When there is heat exchange medium flowing in the liquid supply tube 7, the heat exchange medium can flow into the second heat exchange pipe 402 through the third hole 702, and then, after exchanging heat with the second phase change material in the sealing cavity 403, it flows back to the liquid supply tube 7 or the liquid collection tube 8 through the fourth hole 703. Alternatively, the second heat exchange tube can be connected in parallel with the liquid collection tube 8. When there is heat exchange medium flowing in the liquid supply tube 7 or the liquid collection tube 8, the heat exchange medium can flow into the second heat exchange pipe 402 through the fifth hole 802, and then, after exchanging heat with the second phase change material in the sealing cavity 403, it flows back to the liquid collection tube 8 through the sixth hole 803.
[0101] In the above structure, the second heat exchange pipe 402 is connected in parallel with the collecting pipe 8 or the supply pipe 7, which allows the heat-exchanged medium to be collected more evenly into the collecting pipe 8 or the supply pipe 7. During the heat exchange process, the heat exchange effect may vary at different locations, resulting in different temperatures and states of the heat exchange medium. By connecting in parallel, the heat exchange medium from each part can flow into the collecting pipe 8 or the supply pipe 7 simultaneously and independently, avoiding the problems of uneven medium flow and local accumulation caused by collecting through a single channel. This ensures the uniformity of the medium in the collecting pipe 8 or the supply pipe 7, which is beneficial for subsequent processing and recycling of the heat exchange medium.
[0102] Embodiments of this application also provide a vehicle including the battery device 1 of any of the above embodiments. In the battery device 1, a heat insulation component 3 is provided between adjacent battery cells 6, improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cells 6. Furthermore, the heat insulation component 3 can reduce heat transfer between battery cells 6. In the event of thermal runaway in one battery cell 6, it can block the rapid transfer of heat, reducing the risk of adjacent battery cells 6 being affected and also experiencing thermal runaway, thus improving the operational stability of the battery module 2. Further, by providing a first phase change material in the heat insulation component 3, the heat from the battery cells 6 can be rapidly absorbed, improving heat exchange efficiency. A porous substrate is used to adsorb the first phase change material, reducing the risk of the first phase change material moving and accumulating in one place during the melting process, thereby reducing heat accumulation in the battery cells 6 due to vacancies in the first phase change material, and improving the temperature uniformity of the battery cells 6. A first heat exchange pipe 302 is provided within the heat insulation plate 301, enabling heat exchange with the first phase change material, improving the efficiency of heat exchange, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat insulation component 3, thereby improving the stability of the vehicle operation.
[0103] The embodiments described above are not exhaustive, nor do they limit the application to the specific embodiments described herein. Clearly, many modifications and variations can be made based on the above description. These embodiments are selected and specifically described in this specification to better explain the principles and practical applications of this application, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to effectively utilize this application and its modifications. This application is limited only by the claims and their full scope and equivalents.
Claims
1. A battery device, characterized in that, include: A battery module comprises multiple battery cells arranged in sequence; A heat insulation assembly is disposed between two adjacent battery cells. The heat insulation assembly includes a heat insulation plate with a receiving cavity inside. The receiving cavity contains a first phase change material and a porous substrate. The pores of the porous substrate are used to adsorb the first phase change material. The first phase change material is used to exchange heat with the battery cells. The receiving cavity also contains a first heat exchange pipe. The first heat exchange pipe passes through the receiving cavity and extends to the outside of the heat insulation assembly for the flow of heat exchange medium. At least a portion of the pipe wall of the first heat exchange pipe is in direct contact with the first phase change material to realize heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the first phase change material.
2. The battery device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cavity is provided with a flow-blocking structure, which divides the cavity into an upper porous substrate fixing area and a lower phase change material initial filling area. The porous substrate is fixedly disposed in the fixing area, and the phase change material is initially filled in the filling area. The flow-blocking structure allows the molten phase change material to permeate upward into the porous substrate through capillary action, thereby preventing the liquid phase change material from flowing downward.
3. The battery device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The porous substrate includes at least one of metal foam, graphene porous material, or ceramic aerogel.
4. The battery device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first heat exchange pipe extends in a continuous curved shape within the receiving cavity, the heat insulation component is disposed on the side of the battery cell along a first direction, and both ends of the first heat exchange pipe extend from the same side of the heat insulation component along a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to each other.
5. The battery device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The battery device also includes: A liquid supply pipe is disposed on one side of the heat insulation component along the second direction, and a first hole is provided on the liquid supply pipe; A collection pipe is disposed at a distance from the supply pipe on the same side along the second direction, and a second hole is provided on the collection pipe. The inlet end of the first heat exchange pipe is connected to the liquid supply pipe through the first hole, and the outlet end of the first heat exchange pipe is connected to the liquid collection pipe through the second hole. The liquid supply pipe, the first heat exchange pipe and the liquid collection pipe are connected in series to form a fluid passage.
6. The battery device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The thermal insulation component also includes: A liquid inlet connection pipe is connected between the inlet end of the first heat exchange pipe and the first hole of the liquid supply pipe; A liquid outlet connection pipe is connected between the outlet end of the first heat exchange pipe and the second hole of the liquid collection pipe. The inlet pipe is detachably connected to the supply pipe, and the outlet pipe is detachably connected to the collection pipe.
7. The battery device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The battery device further includes a heat exchange component disposed on one side of the battery module along a third direction, wherein the third direction is perpendicular to both the first direction and the second direction. The heat exchange assembly includes a heat exchange plate with a sealed cavity, and a second phase change material is disposed in the sealed cavity. The second phase change material is used to exchange heat with the battery cell.
8. The battery device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The heat exchange assembly further includes a second heat exchange pipe disposed within the sealed cavity. At least a portion of the pipe wall of the second heat exchange pipe is in direct contact with the second phase change material. Both ends of the second heat exchange pipe extend to the outside of the heat exchange plate for connecting to the heat exchange medium circulation system.
9. The battery device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first phase change material includes at least one of paraffin, fatty acid, or molten salt, and / or the second phase change material includes at least one of paraffin, fatty acid, or molten salt.
10. The battery device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second heat exchange pipe includes: The first straight segment and the second straight segment are set parallel to each other along the first direction; The curved segment connects the adjacent first ends of the first straight segment and the second straight segment. Wherein, the second ends of the first straight section and the second straight section extend along the second direction to the outside of the heat exchange plate, and the curved section is located inside the sealing cavity.
11. The battery device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The liquid supply pipe is provided with a third hole and a fourth hole, and the second ends of the two straight sections are respectively connected to the third hole and the fourth hole, so as to connect the second heat exchange pipe in parallel with the liquid supply pipe, or... The liquid collecting pipe is provided with a fifth hole and a sixth hole, and the second ends of the two straight sections are respectively connected to the fifth hole and the sixth hole to connect the second heat exchange pipe and the liquid collecting pipe in parallel.
12. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the battery device as described in any one of claims 1-11.