Thermal management system and battery and electric device with same

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of thermal management system and battery with it, electric device, involve battery technical field.The thermal management system includes: heat exchanger;Liquid outlet pipe;Liquid inlet pipe;Driving part, driving part is arranged on at least one of liquid outlet pipe and liquid inlet pipe, for driving electrolyte flow;Detection part;Emergency liquid storage device, emergency liquid storage device is arranged on liquid inlet pipe, and emergency liquid storage device is electrically connected with detection part to control switch according to detection result.Urgent liquid storage device is used to store at least one of passivator, fire retardant, fire extinguishing agent.The thermal management system uses electrolyte as the heat exchange medium of battery monomer, by external temperature control system, electrolyte of suitable temperature is pumped into battery monomer inside, while electrolyte of temperature not meeting the requirement of battery monomer is pumped out, reach than conventional battery liquid cooling thermal management system has higher efficient temperature control capability.Effectively reduce battery monomer out-of-control risk, guarantee life and property safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery technology, specifically to a thermal management system and a battery and electrical device having the same. Background Technology

[0002] New energy vehicle energy storage devices typically employ a high-density stacking of individual battery cells. However, this stacking reduces the battery pack's heat dissipation efficiency, leading to excessive temperature buildup. This keeps the battery constantly at high temperatures, limiting its charging and discharging performance, shortening its lifespan, and increasing the risk of combustion and explosion. Current temperature control technology, utilizing external cooling pipes and plates, is used to prevent battery explosions. However, this technology suffers from small refrigerant contact area and low heat transfer efficiency. Improving battery heat dissipation solutions is one of the current research directions. Utility Model Content

[0003] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a thermal management system that not only provides a novel thermal management solution but also an emergency liquid storage device. By detecting the battery status and taking emergency measures, it ensures the safe use of the battery.

[0004] A thermal management system for a battery according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a battery cell having an electrolyte inlet and an electrolyte outlet, and a heat exchanger; an outlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the heat exchanger and the other end of which is connected to the electrolyte outlet; an inlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the heat exchanger and the other end of which is connected to the electrolyte inlet; a drive member, disposed on at least one of the outlet pipe and the inlet pipe, for driving electrolyte flow; a detection member, disposed on at least one of the battery cell, the heat exchanger, the outlet pipe, and the inlet pipe; and an emergency liquid storage device, connected to the inlet pipe and electrically connected to the detection member to control a switch according to the detection result, wherein the emergency liquid storage device is used to store at least one of a passivating agent, a flame retardant, and a fire extinguishing agent.

[0005] According to the thermal management system of this utility model embodiment, electrolyte is used as the heat exchange medium of battery cells. Through an external temperature control system, electrolyte at a suitable temperature is pumped into the battery cells, while electrolyte at a temperature that does not meet the requirements of the battery cells is pumped out, achieving a more efficient temperature control capability than conventional battery liquid cooling and thermal management systems.

[0006] This system directly exchanges heat with the internal electrodes of the battery cell by pumping electrolyte at a specific temperature into the battery cell. Compared with traditional liquid cooling systems that rely on heat conduction through the battery casing, thermal conductive adhesive, and heat sink, this system shortens the heat exchange path, significantly reduces thermal resistance, and increases heat exchange power.

[0007] This system can eliminate the need for excess refrigerant, compressor, and related high-pressure pipes, dryers, expansion valves, and other components used for battery pack heat dissipation / heating, thus achieving weight reduction.

[0008] This system monitors the health status of individual battery cells through the detection of testing components, providing early warnings and reducing risks.

[0009] This system can replace the electrolyte in the system to the individual battery cells. Moreover, replenishing the electrolyte in the system is more convenient than replenishing it on the individual battery cells, making it easier to provide a channel for electrolyte replacement and extending the life of the individual battery cells as easily as "changing engine oil".

[0010] The emergency liquid storage device in this system is equivalent to a fire extinguishing device. After the system detects risk signals such as loss of control of a battery cell, it promptly injects passivating agents, flame retardants, or even fire extinguishing agents into the battery cell, which can effectively reduce the risk of loss of control of the battery cell and protect life and property.

[0011] In some embodiments, the inlet pipe includes: a main inlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the heat exchanger; at least two inlet branch pipes, one end of which is connected to the main inlet pipe and the other end of which is connected to the electrolyte inlet of at least two battery cells; the outlet pipe includes: a main outlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the heat exchanger; at least two outlet branch pipes, one end of which is connected to the main outlet pipe and the other end of which is connected to the electrolyte outlet of at least two battery cells.

[0012] In some embodiments, the emergency liquid storage device is connected to the main liquid inlet pipe; or, the emergency liquid storage device is connected to each of the branch liquid inlet pipes.

[0013] In some embodiments, it further includes: a first control element disposed on at least one of the inlet branch pipes; and a second control element disposed on at least one of the outlet branch pipes.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least one of the first control elements has an adjustable opening degree; at least one of the second control elements has an adjustable opening degree.

[0015] In some embodiments, the detection element further includes a single-unit detection element disposed on each of the outlet branch pipes.

[0016] In some embodiments, an electrolyte buffer tank is also included, which is disposed on the inlet pipe or the outlet pipe.

[0017] In some embodiments, the electrolyte buffer tank is provided with a replenishment port.

[0018] In some embodiments, the thermal management system of the battery further includes an exhaust valve connected to at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe.

[0019] In some embodiments, the battery thermal management system further includes a filter connected to at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe.

[0020] In some embodiments, the thermal management system of the battery further includes an electrolyte composition sensor, which is connected to at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe.

[0021] In some embodiments, the detection element further includes at least one of the following sensors: a front pressure sensor disposed on the inlet pipe; a front temperature sensor disposed on the inlet pipe; a rear pressure sensor disposed on the outlet pipe; and a rear temperature sensor disposed on the outlet pipe.

[0022] A battery according to a second aspect of the present invention includes: at least one battery cell, the battery cell having an electrolyte inlet and an electrolyte outlet; and a thermal management system for the battery according to the above embodiment, wherein the outlet pipe is connected to the electrolyte outlet and the inlet pipe is connected to the electrolyte inlet.

[0023] An electrical device according to a third aspect of the present invention includes: a battery according to a second aspect of the present invention.

[0024] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery structure of some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the piping connections between the thermal management system and multiple battery cells in some embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the piping connections between the thermal management system and multiple battery cells in other embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of a battery cell in some embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a battery cell according to some embodiments of this application.

[0026] Figure label: Battery 100 Thermal Management System 10 Battery cell 1, electrolyte inlet 11, electrolyte outlet 12, electrode core 13, positive electrode post 14, negative electrode post 15, positive electrode tab 16, negative electrode tab 17, pressure relief valve 18. Heat exchanger 2 Discharge pipe 3, main discharge pipe 31, branch discharge pipe 32, second control component 321 Inlet pipe 4, main inlet pipe 41, branch inlet pipe 42, first control component 421 Drive component 5 Detection component 6, Individual detection component 61, Front pressure sensor 62, Front temperature sensor 63, Rear pressure sensor 64, Rear temperature sensor 65. Emergency liquid storage device 7 Electrolyte buffer tank 8, replenishment port 81 9. Exhaust valve Filter 20 Electrolyte composition sensor 30. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0028] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that features specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of those features. In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more. In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0029] The following is for reference. Figures 1-5 A thermal management system 10 according to an embodiment of the present utility model is described.

[0030] According to the battery thermal management system 10 of this utility model embodiment, refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 2It includes: battery cell 1, heat exchanger 2, liquid outlet pipe 3, liquid inlet pipe 4, drive unit 5, detection unit 6, and emergency liquid storage device 7.

[0031] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the battery cell 1 has an electrolyte inlet 11 and an electrolyte outlet 12. The battery cell 1, through the electrolyte inlet 11, the electrolyte outlet 12, the outlet pipe 3, and the inlet pipe 4, forms a circulating flow system with the heat exchanger 2 and the drive unit 5.

[0032] One end of the outlet pipe 3 is connected to the heat exchanger 2, and the other end of the outlet pipe 3 is used to connect to the electrolyte outlet 12. One end of the inlet pipe 4 is connected to the heat exchanger 2, and the other end of the inlet pipe 4 is used to connect to the electrolyte inlet 11.

[0033] The drive element 5 is disposed on at least one of the outlet pipe 3 and the inlet pipe 4. Specifically, the drive element 5 can be disposed on the outlet pipe 3 or the inlet pipe 4, or there can be two drive elements 5, one on the inlet pipe 3 and the other on the outlet pipe 4. The drive element 5 can be a pump or other machine capable of pressurizing the electrolyte, such as an ejector. Optionally, the drive element 5 is a circulating pump.

[0034] Heat exchanger 2 is the location for temperature control of the electrolyte in the circulating system. By driving the electrolyte in the battery cell 1 to the heat exchanger 2 for heat exchange, the temperature control capability of the electrolyte in the battery cell 1 is improved, and the temperature of the electrolyte in the battery cell 1 is kept stably within the required range.

[0035] It should be noted that in this application, the heat exchanger 2 can be a radiator used to cool and dissipate heat from the battery cell 1. In some designs, the heat exchanger 2 can also be a heater used to heat the battery cell 1; the heating function in low-temperature environments can reduce the energy consumption of the battery cell 1. Especially during winter use, controlling the battery cell 1 at an appropriate temperature through the heat exchanger 2 can reduce the rate of power loss. In other designs, the heat exchanger 2 can switch between heating and cooling states. For example, the heat exchanger 2 includes a heater and a cooler connected in parallel, both with a three-way valve at their inlet ends. When the ambient temperature of the battery cell 1 is too low, the three-way valve switches to connect to the heater. When the battery cell 1 generates excessive heat during use, the three-way valve switches to connect to the cooler. The specific structure of the heat exchanger 2 is not limited here.

[0036] For ease of description, the following explanation will use the example of heat exchanger 2 cooling the electrolyte. When the electrolyte requiring cooling in battery cell 1 flows into outlet pipe 3 through electrolyte outlet 12, and then through outlet pipe 3 to heat exchanger 2, the high-temperature electrolyte dissipates heat through heat exchanger 2, for example, by flowing through the air, thus cooling the electrolyte. The cooled electrolyte then flows through inlet pipe 4 to electrolyte inlet 11 of battery cell 1, entering the battery cell 1. This electrolyte circulation achieves the purpose of lowering the temperature of battery cell 1. The electrolyte entering battery cell 1 completes the charging and discharging process of battery cell 1.

[0037] When the electrolyte in battery cell 1 flows through the pipes and heat exchanger 2, it encounters certain flow resistance (such as friction, local resistance, etc.), which can lead to insufficient flow momentum of the electrolyte. At this time, the electrolyte passes through the drive component 5, which provides the electrolyte with flow momentum, enabling subsequent electrolyte to continuously and stably pass through the subsequent pipelines, allowing the electrolyte to circulate between battery cell 1 and thermal management system 10.

[0038] The detection element 6 is installed on at least one of the battery cell 1, heat exchanger 2, outlet pipe 3, and inlet pipe 4. The emergency liquid storage device 7 is connected to the inlet pipe 3 and is electrically connected to the detection element 6 to control the switch according to the detection result. The emergency liquid storage device 7 is used to store at least one of the battery's passivating agent, flame retardant, and fire extinguishing agent.

[0039] The detection element 6 here can detect the state of the electrolyte. The location and number of detection elements 6 are unlimited, and the target parameters detected by the detection element 6 are also unlimited. For example, the detection element 6 can be used to detect the temperature, pressure, and composition of the electrolyte. It is understandable that the electrolyte state may change in various ways during normal use and in case of malfunction of the battery cell 1. For example, the detection element 6 can detect state parameters with large changes or those highly correlated with fire risk, thus quickly determining the state of the battery cell 1. This allows the emergency liquid storage device 7 to quickly determine whether it needs to be opened and release the internal liquid.

[0040] If the detection of a dangerous situation in component 6, the user can be reminded to go to a professional repair shop for inspection.

[0041] Understandably, traditional battery packs are waterproof, preventing external liquids such as coolants and fire extinguishing agents from directly contacting the individual battery cells. When a battery burns out of control, external water spray has low heat dissipation efficiency, and fire extinguishing agents cannot reach the burning location to extinguish the fire, leading to uncontrolled combustion. Furthermore, traditional fireproof and heat-insulating materials further reduce the effective space inside the battery pack. However, this application, through system design, transfers the risk of electrolyte leakage to the outside of the individual battery cells 1, and the operation of the emergency liquid storage device 7 is not limited by the location or capacity of the individual battery cells 1.

[0042] Specifically, passivating agents, flame retardants, and fire extinguishing agents in batteries can be collectively referred to as battery functional chemical additives (or "battery safety and performance regulation chemical additives"). The core logic of this term is that all three are chemical substances that directly serve to improve battery safety, stabilize performance, or manage risks through specific chemical reactions or physical functions.

[0043] The passivating agent can form a dense and stable passivation film (such as an SEI film optimizer) on the electrode surface, preventing excessive reaction between the electrode and the electrolyte and reducing problems such as lithium plating and gas expansion. The passivating agent can be any material known in existing battery passivating technologies. When the emergency storage device 7 contains a passivating agent, it can improve the stability of the battery cell 1 and suppress side reactions.

[0044] Flame retardants can slow or prevent the spread of flames by absorbing heat and lowering temperature (e.g., aluminum hydroxide), forming a flame-retardant coating to isolate oxygen (e.g., phosphorus-based flame retardants), capturing free radicals to inhibit combustion chain reactions (e.g., halogen-based flame retardants). The flame retardant used here can be a material known in existing battery flame retardant technology. When the emergency liquid storage device 7 contains a flame retardant, it can prevent the battery cell 1 from igniting, thus providing a flame-retardant function.

[0045] Fire extinguishing agents are designed for battery fires (such as those caused by lithium dendrite short circuits). They work by cooling the battery, isolating oxygen, and inhibiting chemical reactions (e.g., with fluoride-based extinguishing agents) to quickly extinguish combustion and prevent reignition. These agents can also extinguish existing battery fires. The extinguishing agents used can be those made from materials known in current battery fire extinguishing technology.

[0046] In some embodiments of this application, the emergency liquid storage device 7 may contain one of a passivating agent, a flame retardant, or a fire extinguishing agent. In other embodiments, there are two or three emergency liquid storage devices 7, each containing a type of battery functional chemical additive. This allows for the selective release of one or two of these additives depending on the electrolyte state. For example, when the detection device 7 determines that battery cell 1 has a risk of runaway but a fire has not yet occurred, the emergency liquid storage device 7 can release a passivating agent. When the detection device 7 determines that battery cell 1 has caught fire, the emergency liquid storage device 7 can release a flame retardant and a fire extinguishing agent. In still other embodiments, there is only one emergency liquid storage device 7, which contains a mixture of at least two types of battery functional chemical additives.

[0047] According to the thermal management system 10 of this utility model embodiment, electrolyte is used as the heat exchange medium of battery cell 1. Through an external temperature control system, electrolyte at a suitable temperature is pumped into the battery cell 1, while electrolyte at a temperature that does not meet the requirements of battery cell 1 is pumped out, achieving a more efficient temperature control capability than conventional battery liquid cooling and thermal management systems.

[0048] This system directly exchanges heat with the internal electrodes of the battery cell 1 by pumping electrolyte at a specific temperature into the battery cell 1. Compared with the traditional liquid cooling system, which involves heat conduction through the battery casing, thermal conductive adhesive, heat sink, etc., this system shortens the heat exchange path, significantly reduces thermal resistance, and improves heat exchange power.

[0049] When there are multiple battery cells 1 in the battery 100, by setting up this system, the electrolyte of all battery cells 1 is cooled by the system. No matter where the battery cell 1 is located in the battery 100, it will not affect the cooling or heating of the electrolyte, thereby improving the temperature uniformity among the battery cells 1 in the battery 100, reducing the temperature difference, and achieving higher battery power, consistency and life.

[0050] This system eliminates the need for redundant refrigerant, compressors, and related high-pressure pipes, dryers, expansion valves, and other components used for battery pack heat dissipation / heating, thus achieving weight reduction. Therefore, with a fixed weight for battery 100, the proposed solution can increase the weight percentage of individual battery cells 1, thereby improving the energy density of battery 100.

[0051] The system monitors the health status of individual battery cells 1 through the detection of the detection component 7, providing early warnings and reducing risks.

[0052] This system can replace the electrolyte in the system to the battery cell 1. Moreover, replenishing the electrolyte in the system is more convenient than replenishing the electrolyte in the battery cell 1, which facilitates the replacement of the electrolyte and extends the service life of the battery cell 1 as easily as "changing engine oil".

[0053] The emergency liquid storage device 7 in this system is equivalent to a fire extinguishing device. After the system detects a risk signal such as loss of control of the battery cell 1, it promptly injects passivating agents, flame retardants, or even fire extinguishing agents into the battery cell 1, which can effectively reduce the risk of loss of control of the battery cell 1 and protect the safety of life and property.

[0054] In some embodiments, there are multiple battery cells 1 connected in series. The inlet pipe 4 and the outlet pipe 3 can be single pipes, resulting in a shorter overall pipeline and lower cost.

[0055] In some designs, there are multiple battery cells 1, grouped into N groups. The N battery cells 1 in the same group are connected in series. One end of the series connection is connected to an inlet branch pipe 42, and the other end is connected to an outlet branch pipe 32. This allows for grouped control.

[0056] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 2 The inlet pipe 4 includes a main inlet pipe 41 and at least two branch inlet pipes 42. One end of the main inlet pipe 41 is connected to the heat exchanger 2, and one end of each branch inlet pipe 42 is connected to the main inlet pipe 41, while the other end is connected to the electrolyte inlet 11 of at least two battery cells 1. The outlet pipe 3 includes a main outlet pipe 31 and at least two branch outlet pipes 32. One end of the main outlet pipe 31 is connected to the heat exchanger 2, and one end of each branch outlet pipe 32 is connected to the main outlet pipe 31, while the other end is connected to the electrolyte outlet 12 of at least two battery cells 1.

[0057] Optionally, the inlet branch pipe 42 corresponds one-to-one with the battery cell 1, and the outlet branch pipe 32 corresponds one-to-one with the battery cell 1. In this way, the electrolyte in each battery cell 1 can directly enter the system through the corresponding outlet branch pipe 32, and the electrolyte in the system can directly enter the corresponding battery cell 1 through the inlet branch pipe 42. This shortens the electrolyte flow path, and the electrolyte in each battery cell 1 does not need to flow to the next battery cell 1 before flowing into the system, effectively reducing the possibility of a risky battery cell 1 spreading the risk to more battery cells 1.

[0058] In some specific embodiments, when multiple battery cells 1 are grouped together through at least two liquid outlet branches 32 and at least two liquid inlet branches 42, such as Figure 1 As shown, the emergency liquid storage device 7 can be connected to the liquid inlet main pipe 41. In this way, the battery functional chemical additives released by the emergency liquid storage device 7 can enter all battery cells 1.

[0059] In other specific embodiments, when multiple battery cells 1 are grouped together via at least two outlet branches 32 and at least two inlet branches 42, such as Figure 3 As shown, each inlet branch pipe 42 is connected to an emergency liquid storage device 7.

[0060] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 3 The detection component 6 also includes a single-cell detection component 61 installed on each liquid outlet branch pipe 32. This allows the operating status of each battery cell 1 to be monitored, with the detection location close to the battery cell 1, resulting in more accurate detection information. In some designs, when a hazard is detected by the single-cell detection component 61, protective measures can be implemented on the affected battery cell 1, which is more efficient and accurate, while also reducing the impact on other battery cells 1.

[0061] For example in Figure 3 In the illustrated scheme, each inlet branch pipe 42 is connected to an emergency liquid storage device 7. Thus, when a risk is detected on the downstream cell tester 61 of a certain battery cell 1, the emergency liquid storage device 7 upstream of that battery cell 1 releases battery functional chemical additives. The additives enter that battery cell 1, while the amount entering other battery cells 1 is minimal. This ensures that the operating status of other battery cells 1 is not affected during subsequent use.

[0062] Furthermore, referring to Figure 3 The battery thermal management system 10 further includes a first control element 421 disposed on at least one liquid inlet branch pipe 42. The first control element 421 can control the flow direction of at least two liquid inlet branches 42. For example, when there are only two liquid inlet branches 42, when the first control element 421 on one of the liquid inlet branches 42 is closed, the electrolyte in the main liquid inlet pipe 41 flows to the other liquid inlet branch pipe 42. This achieves control of flow direction and flow rate.

[0063] Furthermore, referring to Figure 3 The battery thermal management system 10 further includes a second control element 321 disposed on at least one liquid outlet branch pipe 32. The second control element 321 can control the flow direction of at least two liquid outlet branch pipes 32.

[0064] In some specific embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the thermal management system 10 includes both a first control element 421 and a second control element 321, making the control methods more diverse and flexible.

[0065] Optionally, the first control element 421 can be a check valve, an electrically controlled regulating valve, a manually controlled regulating valve, or a proportional valve, etc. Optionally, the second control element 321 can be a check valve, an electrically controlled regulating valve, a manually controlled regulating valve, or a proportional valve, etc.

[0066] For example, both the first control element 421 and the second control element 321 are one-way valves. When the electrolyte flows into the battery cell 1 from the inlet branch pipe 42, the first control element 421 on the inlet branch pipe 42 only allows the electrolyte to flow in one direction. That is, the electrolyte can only flow from the inlet branch pipe 42 to the battery cell 1, and then the electrolyte in the battery cell 1 flows unidirectionally to the outlet branch pipe 32. When both the first control element 421 and the second control element 321 are one-way valves, the directional flow of the electrolyte in each branch can be effectively controlled, preventing backflow or reverse flow between pipelines, ensuring that the electrolyte circulates according to the predetermined path, improving the stability and controllability of the system operation, and at the same time helping to realize independent control or segmented management of the branches, enhancing the flexibility and safety of the thermal management system.

[0067] In some specific embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, each inlet branch pipe 42 is connected to an emergency liquid storage device 7, and each inlet branch pipe 42 is equipped with a first control element 421, while each outlet branch pipe 32 is equipped with a second control element 321. When a dangerous situation is detected in a certain battery cell 1, the corresponding first control element 421 and second control element 321 can be closed. Then, the corresponding emergency liquid storage device 7 releases the battery functional chemical additives, ensuring that the battery functional chemical additives only enter the dangerous battery cell 1 and do not affect the operation of other battery cells 1. Moreover, the danger is isolated from other battery cells 1, improving the overall safety factor.

[0068] In some specific embodiments, reference is made to Figure 3 At least one first control element 421 has an adjustable opening degree; at least one second control element 321 has an adjustable opening degree.

[0069] When the electrolyte flows through the inlet branch pipe 42, the first control element 421 controls the inflow rate of the electrolyte in the branch pipe, and the second control element 321 controls the outflow rate of the electrolyte in the branch pipe. By independently adjusting the opening degree of each of the first control elements 421 and the second control element 321, the electrolyte flow rate of each branch pipe or each battery cell 1 can be precisely controlled, realizing on-demand distribution and differentiated adjustment. When the detection element 6 monitors the temperature of the battery cell 1, if uneven heat dissipation is detected, the first control element 421 and the second control element 321 can flexibly adjust the flow rate on each branch pipe to match the electrolyte flow rate with the heat dissipation, effectively improving the accuracy and response speed of the thermal management system 10, and also preventing local overheating in the battery cell 1 and avoiding excessive temperature gradients caused by uneven flow.

[0070] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 The battery thermal management system 10 also includes an electrolyte buffer tank 8, which is located on the inlet pipe 4 or the outlet pipe 3.

[0071] The electrolyte buffer tank 8 is used to store redundant electrolyte. Specifically, the spare electrolyte pre-stored in the electrolyte buffer tube 8 can compensate for the leakage of the battery cell 1, the loss of electrolyte flow in the pipeline, the need for replenishment, or the reduction of maintenance operations. It can serve as an emergency or replenishment source to ensure that the total amount of electrolyte in the battery cell 1 is maintained within the normal operating range. In addition, when the electrolyte expands at high temperature or contracts at low temperature, the electrolyte buffer tube 8 can buffer the volume change of the electrolyte caused by thermal expansion and contraction, avoiding problems such as abnormal pressure inside the battery cell 1 and deformation of various branches.

[0072] Specifically, refer to Figure 1 The electrolyte buffer tank 8 is equipped with a replenishment port 81. When the electrolyte in the electrolyte buffer tank 8 is insufficient, electrolyte can be injected through the replenishment port 81 at any time.

[0073] It is understandable that the short battery life in existing technologies is largely due to the rapid depletion of certain active components in the electrolyte. To achieve battery reuse, these active components can be replenished through the electrolyte channels, or fresh electrolyte can be directly replaced, thus extending battery life. However, traditional battery packs have completely sealed individual cells without electrolyte channels, requiring damage to the battery casing for replenishment, which is difficult. The solution in this application, however, has the system located outside the individual cell 1, allowing the electrolyte to be drawn out of the cell 1 without being affected by its structure. This facilitates replenishment and helps extend the lifespan of the individual cell 1.

[0074] Specifically, when the electrolyte level in the electrolyte buffer tank 8 is too low, fresh electrolyte can be added or replaced through the replenishment port 81 to maintain normal system operation.

[0075] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 The battery thermal management system 10 also includes an exhaust valve 9, which is connected to at least one of the inlet pipe 4 and the outlet pipe 3. This allows for the real-time discharge of gases accumulated inside the battery cell 1 during use, reducing the internal pressure of the battery cell 1, thereby minimizing deformation and extending its lifespan. This also ensures that there are no air bubbles in the electrolyte circulation system.

[0076] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 The battery's thermal management system 10 also includes a filter 20, which is connected to at least one of the inlet pipe 4 and the outlet pipe 3. The filter 20 can filter out impurities in the electrolyte, improving energy density. Some filters 20 can also filter out solid particles, reducing the risk of fixed particles clogging the pipes.

[0077] In some embodiments, the battery thermal management system 10 further includes an electrolyte composition sensor 30, which is connected to at least one of the inlet pipe 4 and the outlet pipe 3. The electrolyte composition sensor 30 can employ a structure known in the prior art, which will not be elaborated here. The electrolyte composition sensor 30 can detect whether the electrolyte composition is within a set range; if it deviates from the set range, the electrolyte needs to be updated to improve its conductivity.

[0078] Specifically, the detection results of the electrolyte composition sensor 30 can be sent to the system controller for overall management. For example, the controller can transmit the signal to a display screen or alarm to provide information to the user. Optionally, when the electrolyte composition sensor 30 detects that the electrolyte composition deviates from the set range, fresh electrolyte can be added or the electrolyte can be replaced through the replenishment port 81 to maintain normal system operation.

[0079] In some embodiments, the detection element 6 further includes at least one of the following sensors: a front pressure sensor 62 disposed on the inlet pipe 4, a front temperature sensor 63 disposed on the inlet pipe 4, a rear pressure sensor 64 disposed on the outlet pipe 3, and a rear temperature sensor 65 disposed on the outlet pipe 3. This enables comprehensive monitoring of temperature and pressure within the system. Only one of the above four sensors may be used in the same system, or two, three, or all of them may be used; no limitation is imposed here.

[0080] In some designs, when temperature detection is required, a front temperature sensor 63 is installed on the inlet pipe 4, and a rear temperature sensor 65 is installed on the outlet pipe 3. The system is equipped with multiple temperature sensors, such as the front temperature sensor 63 and the rear temperature sensor 65. By adjusting the rotation speed of the drive component 5, the temperature of the battery cell 1 is kept constant, avoiding overheating or overcooling.

[0081] In some designs, when pressure monitoring is required, a front pressure sensor 62 is installed on the inlet pipe 4, and a rear pressure sensor 64 is installed on the outlet pipe 3. The system is equipped with multiple pressure sensors, such as the front pressure sensor 62 and the rear pressure sensor 64, which can monitor the electrolyte pressure in the pipeline in real time, reducing the risk of expansion and explosion.

[0082] The following reference Figures 1-5 This invention describes a battery 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The battery 100 can be a battery pack in a vehicle, or an electrical box in a power station, etc.

[0083] According to the battery 100 of the present utility model embodiment, referring to Figure 1 It includes: a thermal management system 10 according to the above embodiments of the present invention and at least one battery cell 1.

[0084] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the battery cell 1 has an electrolyte inlet 11 and an electrolyte outlet 12 for connection to the thermal management system 10. Each battery cell 1 may have one or more electrolyte inlets 11 and one or more electrolyte outlets 12. The electrolyte inlet 11 and electrolyte outlet 12 penetrate the battery casing, connecting the inside of the casing to the outside, allowing electrolyte to enter the battery cell 1 from the electrolyte inlet 11 and to exit the battery cell 1 from the electrolyte outlet 12. In addition, the battery cell 1 also has the necessary structures of a conventional battery, such as the electrode core 13, a positive electrode post 14 for current extraction, a negative electrode post 15, a positive electrode tab 16, and a negative electrode tab 17. Some battery cells 1 are also equipped with an emergency pressure relief valve 18.

[0085] Specifically, the battery cell 1 has a battery casing, which can be either a hard casing or a soft casing.

[0086] The battery 100 in this application helps to improve the uniformity of the temperature field during the electrolyte heat exchange process, avoids problems such as decomposition or precipitation of active reactive substances caused by excessive local temperature difference in the electrolyte, enhances the system's adaptability to large load changes and wide range of ambient temperature changes, and improves the operational stability and reliability of the flow battery system.

[0087] The electrical device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a battery 100 according to the above embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] It should be noted that the electrical devices mentioned here include, but are not limited to, new energy vehicles, power tools, ships, and spacecraft. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, range-extended electric vehicles, etc. Specifically, a battery 100 is installed within the vehicle. Here, the battery 100 can be used to power the vehicle; for example, the battery 100 can serve as the vehicle's operating power source. The vehicle may also include a controller and a motor. The controller is used to control the battery 100 to supply power to the motor, for example, to meet the power needs of starting, navigation, and driving the vehicle. In some embodiments of this application, the battery 100 can not only serve as the vehicle's operating power source but also as the vehicle's driving power source, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle.

[0089] In the above technical solution, since the power-consuming device adopts the battery 100 of the second aspect embodiment of this utility model, the reliability and safety of the power-consuming device are improved by using the battery 100 with high reliability and good heat dissipation.

[0090] In this specification, the terms "embodiment," "example," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0091] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A thermal management system for a battery, characterized in that, The battery cell has an electrolyte inlet and an electrolyte outlet, and the thermal management system includes: Heat exchanger; A liquid outlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the heat exchanger and the other end of which is used to connect to the electrolyte outlet; An inlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the heat exchanger, and the other end of which is used to connect to the electrolyte inlet; A driving element, which is disposed on at least one of the outlet pipe and the inlet pipe, is used to drive the electrolyte flow. A detection element is disposed on at least one of the battery cell, the heat exchanger, the liquid outlet pipe, and the liquid inlet pipe; An emergency liquid storage device is provided, which is connected to the inlet pipe and electrically connected to the detection element to control a switch according to the detection result. The emergency liquid storage device is used to store at least one of a passivating agent, a flame retardant, and a fire extinguishing agent.

2. The thermal management system for the battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inlet pipe includes: A liquid inlet main pipe, one end of which is connected to the heat exchanger; At least two liquid inlet branches, one end of each liquid inlet branch is connected to the liquid inlet main pipe, and the other end is connected to the electrolyte inlet of at least two of the battery cells; The outlet pipe includes: A liquid outlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the heat exchanger; At least two liquid outlet branches, one end of each liquid outlet branch is connected to the liquid outlet main, and the other end is connected to the electrolyte outlet of at least two of the battery cells.

3. The thermal management system for the battery according to claim 2, characterized in that, The emergency liquid storage device is connected to the main liquid inlet pipe; Alternatively, each of the aforementioned inlet branch pipes may be connected to the aforementioned emergency liquid storage device.

4. The battery thermal management system according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A first control element is provided on at least one of the said inlet branch pipes; A second control element is provided on at least one of the said liquid outlet branch pipes; The detection device also includes: a single detection device disposed on each of the liquid outlet branches.

5. The thermal management system for the battery according to claim 4, characterized in that, At least one of the first control elements has an adjustable opening degree and is electrically connected to the detection element; at least one of the second control elements has an adjustable opening degree and is electrically connected to the detection element.

6. The thermal management system for the battery according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, Also includes: An electrolyte buffer tank is provided on the inlet pipe or the outlet pipe; the electrolyte buffer tank is provided with a replenishment port.

7. The thermal management system for the battery according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, It also includes at least one of the following structures: An exhaust valve is connected to at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe; A filter, the filter being connected to at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe; An electrolyte composition sensor is connected to at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe.

8. The thermal management system for the battery according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The detection device also includes at least one of the following sensors: A front pressure sensor is installed on the inlet pipe; A front temperature sensor is installed on the inlet pipe; A pressure sensor is installed on the outlet pipe; The temperature sensor is located on the outlet pipe.

9. A battery, characterized in that, include: At least one battery cell, the battery cell having an electrolyte inlet and an electrolyte outlet; The thermal management system of the battery according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the outlet pipe is connected to the electrolyte outlet and the inlet pipe is connected to the electrolyte inlet.

10. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, include: The battery according to claim 9.

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