Integrated thermal management device

Abstract

The application relates to an integrated heat management device, which comprises a first heat exchange module, a second heat exchange module and a third heat exchange module; a first cold liquid outlet channel is communicated with a second cold liquid inlet channel, a second cold liquid outlet channel is communicated with a third hot liquid inlet channel, a third hot liquid outlet channel is communicated with a second hot liquid inlet channel, and the second hot liquid outlet channel is communicated with the first cold liquid inlet channel. The integrated heat management device provided by the application solves the problems of high manufacturing cost and large assembly volume caused by independent setting of various modules of a heat management system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle thermal management system technology, and in particular to an integrated thermal management device. Background Technology

[0002] Electric vehicles, with their energy-saving and emission-reduction capabilities, have received widespread attention from the international automotive industry and have experienced rapid development in recent years. However, heating is a significant constraint on the development of electric vehicles, especially in cold or frigid regions, as existing electric heating methods are inefficient and severely impact the driving range of electric vehicles.

[0003] To improve system energy efficiency, heat pump-based thermal management systems are typically used for heating or cooling. Existing thermal management systems usually consist of an evaporator, an intermediate heat exchanger, and a water-cooled condenser. In current systems, these three components exist independently, with connections made entirely through air conditioning pipes and water pipes, or their respective refrigerant or water channels. This necessitates the separate fabrication, assembly, and testing of each heat exchanger. Furthermore, connecting them requires additional piping and corresponding bolt supports, significantly increasing component costs and increasing the overall volume, which is detrimental to the installation of these heat exchangers within electric vehicles. Utility Model Content

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide an integrated thermal management device to solve the problems of high manufacturing costs and large assembly volume caused by the independent setting of each module in the existing thermal management system.

[0005] The integrated thermal management device provided in this application includes three heat exchange modules stacked and fixedly connected along a preset height direction, namely a first heat exchange module, a second heat exchange module, and a third heat exchange module. Each heat exchange module is formed by stacking multiple plates, with hot flow layers and cold flow layers alternately arranged along the preset height direction between adjacent plates. A first hot flow inlet channel in the first heat exchange module is connected to a first hot flow outlet channel through multiple first hot flow layers, and a first cold flow inlet channel in the first heat exchange module is connected to a first cold flow outlet channel through multiple first cold flow layers. A second hot flow inlet channel in the second heat exchange module... The second heat exchange module has a second cold flow inlet channel connected to a second cold flow outlet channel via multiple second heat flow layers; the third heat exchange module has a third heat flow inlet channel connected to a third heat flow outlet channel via multiple third heat flow layers; the third heat exchange module has a third cold flow inlet channel connected to a third cold flow outlet channel via multiple third cold flow layers; the first cold flow outlet channel is connected to the second cold flow inlet channel, the second cold flow outlet channel is connected to the third heat flow inlet channel, the third heat flow outlet channel is connected to the second heat flow inlet channel, and the second heat flow outlet channel is connected to the first cold flow inlet channel.

[0006] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first heat exchange module perpendicular to the preset height direction is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second heat exchange module perpendicular to the preset height direction, the orthographic projection of the second hot liquid outlet channel along the preset height direction does not coincide with the orthographic projection of the first heat exchange module along the preset height direction, and the orthographic projection of the second cold liquid outlet channel along the preset height direction does not coincide with the orthographic projection of the first heat exchange module along the preset height direction.

[0007] In one embodiment, the first heat exchange module, the second heat exchange module, and the third heat exchange module are all plate heat exchangers. The length directions of the first heat exchange module, the second heat exchange module, and the third heat exchange module are the same, and the width directions of the first heat exchange module, the second heat exchange module, and the third heat exchange module are the same.

[0008] In one embodiment, the length of the first heat exchange module is less than the length of the second heat exchange module, and the second hot liquid outflow channel and the second cold liquid outflow channel are both distributed in the area of ​​the second heat exchange module that protrudes from the first heat exchange module along the length direction.

[0009] In one embodiment, the length L of the first heat exchange module and the length M of the second heat exchange module satisfy 0.5 ≤ L / M ≤ 0.9.

[0010] In one embodiment, one end of the second heat exchange module protrudes along the length direction from the corresponding end of the first heat exchange module, and the other end of the second heat exchange module is flush with the corresponding end of the first heat exchange module along the length direction.

[0011] In one embodiment, both ends of the second heat exchange module along the length direction protrude from the corresponding two ends of the first heat exchange module along the length direction, respectively, and the second hot fluid outflow channel and the second cold fluid outflow channel are respectively disposed at the two ends of the second heat exchange module along the length direction.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first hot fluid inflow channel and the first hot fluid outflow channel are diagonally arranged, the first cold fluid inflow channel and the first cold fluid outflow channel are diagonally arranged. A direction from the first hot fluid inflow channel to the first hot fluid outflow channel is defined as a first hot fluid flow direction, a direction from the first cold fluid inflow channel to the first cold fluid outflow channel is defined as a first cold fluid flow direction, and an included angle A between the first hot fluid flow direction and the first cold fluid flow direction satisfies 90°<A<180°; and / or, the second hot fluid inflow channel and the second hot fluid outflow channel are diagonally arranged, the second cold fluid inflow channel and the second cold fluid outflow channel are diagonally arranged, a direction from the second hot fluid inflow channel to the second hot fluid outflow channel is defined as a second hot fluid flow direction, a direction from the second cold fluid inflow channel to the second cold fluid outflow channel is defined as a second cold fluid flow direction, and an included angle B between the second hot fluid flow direction and the second cold fluid flow direction satisfies 90°<B<180°; and / or, the third hot fluid inflow channel and the third hot fluid outflow channel are diagonally arranged, the third cold fluid inflow channel and the third cold fluid outflow channel are diagonally arranged, a direction from the third hot fluid inflow channel to the third hot fluid outflow channel is defined as a third hot fluid flow direction, a direction from the third cold fluid inflow channel to the third cold fluid outflow channel is defined as a third cold fluid flow direction, and an included angle C between the third hot fluid flow direction and the third cold fluid flow direction satisfies 90°<C<180°.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first heat exchange module is an evaporator, the third heat exchange module is a condenser, and the second heat exchange module is an intermediate heat exchanger.

[0014] In one embodiment, the integrated thermal management device further comprises a first pipeline, a second pipeline, a third pipeline, a fourth pipeline, a compressor and an expansion valve. The first cold fluid outflow channel is directly in fluid communication with the second cold fluid inflow channel, the second cold fluid outflow channel is in fluid communication with an inlet of the compressor through the first pipeline, an outlet of the compressor is in fluid communication with the third hot fluid inflow channel through the second pipeline, the third hot fluid outflow channel is directly in fluid communication with the second hot fluid inflow channel, the second hot fluid outflow channel is in fluid communication with an inlet of the expansion valve through the third pipeline, and an outlet of the expansion valve is in fluid communication with the first cold fluid inflow channel through the fourth pipeline.

[0015] In one embodiment, the expansion valve is an electronic expansion valve, a thermostatic expansion valve or a manual expansion valve.

[0016] Compared with existing technologies, the integrated thermal management device provided in this application specifically comprises three heat exchange modules stacked vertically to form an integral structure, with each module having independent hot and cold flow channels. This integrated design enables the three heat exchange modules to form a closed-loop system, significantly reducing external piping connection points.

[0017] Compared to existing technologies, this solution reduces the number of components and assembly steps by sharing fixed interfaces between heat exchange modules. Furthermore, the internal flow channel connection improves system sealing and reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an integrated thermal management device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0020] Figure 2 A piping connection diagram of an integrated thermal management device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 3 An exploded view of an integrated thermal management device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of an integrated thermal management device according to another embodiment of this application.

[0023] Reference numerals: 100, First heat exchange module; 110, First hot flow inlet channel; 111, First hot flow inlet pipe; 120, First hot flow layer; 130, First hot flow outlet channel; 131, First hot flow outlet pipe; 140, First cold flow inlet channel; 141, First cold flow inlet pipe; 150, First cold flow layer; 160, First cold flow outlet channel; 200, Second heat exchange module; 210, Second hot flow inlet channel; 220, Second hot flow layer; 230, Second hot flow outlet channel; 231, Second hot flow outlet pipe; 240, Second cold flow inlet channel; 250, Second cold flow... Layer; 260, Second cold flow outlet channel; 261, Second cold flow outlet pipe; 300, Third heat exchange module; 310, Third hot flow inlet channel; 311, Third hot flow inlet pipe; 320, Third hot flow layer; 330, Third hot flow outlet channel; 340, Third cold flow inlet channel; 341, Third cold flow inlet pipe; 350, Third cold flow layer; 360, Third cold flow outlet channel; 361, Third cold flow outlet pipe; 400, Plate; 510, First pipeline; 520, Second pipeline; 530, Third pipeline; 540, Fourth pipeline; 600, Compressor; 700, Expansion valve. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Please see Figures 1-4 This application provides an integrated thermal management device, which includes three heat exchange modules stacked and fixedly connected (by welding, snap-fitting, or fasteners) along a preset height direction, respectively defined as a first heat exchange module 100, a second heat exchange module 200, and a third heat exchange module 300. Specifically, in one embodiment, the first heat exchange module 100 is an evaporator for cooling a vehicle battery or motor, the third heat exchange module 300 is a condenser for transferring excess heat to the atmospheric environment, and the second heat exchange module 200 is an intermediate heat exchanger for switching the state of the refrigerant flowing between the evaporator and the condenser. However, it is not limited to this; in other embodiments, the first heat exchange module 100 can also be a solar thermal collector system, the second heat exchange module 200 can be a data center cooling system, and the third heat exchange module 300 can be a large-scale air conditioning system. Each heat exchange module is formed by stacking multiple plates 400. Adjacent plates 400 form alternating hot flow layers and cold flow layers along a preset height direction. The temperature of the medium in the hot flow layer is higher than that of the medium in the cold flow layer, and heat is transferred from the hot flow layer to the cold flow layer.

[0025] The heat flow layer within the first heat exchange module 100 is defined as a first heat flow layer 120. The first heat exchange module 100 is provided with first heat flow inlet channels 110 respectively connecting each of the first heat flow layers 120, and first heat flow outlet channels 130 respectively connecting each of the first heat flow layers 120. That is, the first heat flow inlet channels 110 within the first heat exchange module 100 are connected to the first heat flow outlet channels 130 through multiple first heat flow layers 120. Correspondingly, the cold flow layer within the first heat exchange module 100 is defined as a first cold flow layer 150. The first heat exchange module 100 is provided with first cold flow inlet channels 140 respectively connecting each of the first cold flow layers 150, and first cold flow outlet channels 160 respectively connecting each of the first cold flow layers 150. That is, the first cold flow inlet channel 140 in the first heat exchange module 100 is connected to the first cold flow outlet channel 160 through multiple first cold flow layers 150.

[0026] It should be noted that the sequential arrangement of the evaporator, intermediate heat exchanger, and condenser has the following advantages. First, because the intermediate heat exchanger exchanges heat with both high-pressure and low-pressure refrigerants, and the condenser also contains high-pressure refrigerant, both the intermediate heat exchanger and condenser have relatively high pressure resistance requirements and consistent reliability requirements. However, the evaporator exchanges heat with low-pressure refrigerant and coolant, and its pressure resistance requirements are relatively low. Placing the intermediate heat exchanger and condenser, which have consistent pressure resistance requirements, in the same area is beneficial for the manufacturing of integrated thermal management devices. Secondly, the intermediate heat exchanger operates at a higher temperature; integrating the intermediate heat exchanger and condenser (rather than integrating them with the evaporator) helps reduce heat leakage.

[0027] The heat flow layer within the second heat exchange module 200 is defined as the second heat flow layer 220. The second heat exchange module 200 is provided with second heat flow inlet channels 210 and second heat flow outlet channels 230, each connecting to one of the second heat flow layers 220. That is, the second heat flow inlet channels 210 within the second heat exchange module 200 are connected to the second heat flow outlet channels 230 through multiple second heat flow layers 220. Correspondingly, the cold flow layer within the second heat exchange module 200 is defined as the second cold flow layer 250. The second heat exchange module 200 is provided with second cold flow inlet channels 240 and second cold flow outlet channels 260, each connecting to one of the second cold flow layers 250. That is, the second cold flow inlet channel 240 in the second heat exchange module 200 is connected to the second cold flow outlet channel 260 through multiple second cold flow layers 250.

[0028] The heat flow layer within the third heat exchange module 300 is defined as the third heat flow layer 320. The third heat exchange module 300 is provided with third heat flow inlet channels 310 respectively connecting each of the third heat flow layers 320, and third heat flow outlet channels 330 respectively connecting each of the third heat flow layers 320. That is, the third heat flow inlet channels 310 within the third heat exchange module 300 are connected to the third heat flow outlet channels 330 through multiple third heat flow layers 320. Correspondingly, the cold flow layer within the third heat exchange module 300 is defined as the third cold flow layer 350. The third heat exchange module 300 is provided with third cold flow inlet channels 340 respectively connecting each of the third cold flow layers 350, and third cold flow outlet channels 360 respectively connecting each of the third cold flow layers 350. That is, the third cold flow inlet channel 340 in the third heat exchange module 300 is connected to the third cold flow outlet channel 360 through multiple third cold flow layers 350.

[0029] The first cold flow outlet channel 160 is aligned with (that is, the first cold flow outlet channel 160 and the second cold flow inlet channel 240 are directly connected and face each other, without any connecting pipe between them) and directly connected to the second cold flow inlet channel 240. The second cold flow inlet channel 240 is connected to the second cold flow outlet channel 260 through each of the second cold flow layers 250. The second cold flow outlet channel 260 is connected to the inlet of the compressor 600 through the first pipe 510. The outlet of the compressor 600 is connected to the third hot flow inlet channel 310 through the second pipe 520. The third hot flow inlet channel 310 is connected to each of the third hot flow layers 250. Layer 320 is connected to the third hot liquid outlet channel 330. The third hot liquid outlet channel 330 is aligned with and directly connected to the second hot liquid inlet channel 210. The second hot liquid inlet channel 210 is connected to the second hot liquid outlet channel 230 through each of the second hot liquid layers 220. The second hot liquid outlet channel 230 is connected to the inlet of the expansion valve 700 through the third pipe 530. The outlet of the expansion valve 700 is connected to the first cold liquid inlet channel 140 through the fourth pipe 540. The first cold liquid inlet channel 140 is connected to the first cold liquid outlet channel 160 through each of the first cold liquid layers 150, so as to form a refrigerant flow circulation in the three heat exchange modules.

[0030] Specifically, in one embodiment, the first hot flow inlet channel 110 is the water inlet channel of the evaporator. The coolant (mainly water or other media) in this inlet channel absorbs a large amount of heat generated by the battery or motor to dissipate heat from the battery and motor. The first hot flow outlet channel 130 is the water outlet channel of the evaporator. The coolant in this outlet channel cools down and flows back to the liquid cooling elements of the battery or motor. The first cold flow inlet channel 140 is the refrigerant inlet channel of the evaporator. The refrigerant in the first cold flow inlet channel 140 is a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant generated by the throttling and pressure reduction action of the expansion valve 700. After entering the first cold flow layer 150, the low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the coolant in the first hot flow layer 120 and vaporizes into a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant. Then, the low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the first cold flow layer 150 leaves the evaporator through the first cold flow outlet channel 160 and enters the intermediate heat exchanger through the second cold flow inlet channel 240.

[0031] The third cold flow inlet channel 340 serves as the condenser's water inlet channel. The low-temperature coolant (mainly water) in this channel enters the third cold flow layer 350 and absorbs heat from the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the third hot flow layer 320, causing the gaseous refrigerant to liquefy into a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Furthermore, the coolant in the third cold flow layer 350, after absorbing heat, becomes a high-temperature coolant and leaves the condenser through the third cold flow outlet channel 360, ultimately transferring heat to the atmosphere. It is important to note that the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant generated at the compressor 600 outlet enters the third hot flow layer 320 through the third hot flow inlet channel 310, then liquefies into a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant, and finally enters the second hot flow inlet channel 210 of the intermediate heat exchanger through the third hot flow outlet channel 330 of the condenser.

[0032] Within the intermediate heat exchanger, high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant enters the second hot flow layer 220 through the second hot flow inlet channel 210, while low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant enters the second cold flow layer 250 through the second cold flow inlet channel 240. Heat exchange occurs between the two, and the high-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant in the second hot flow layer 220 cools down to become low-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. It then enters the expansion valve 700 through the second hot flow outlet channel 230 and the third pipe 530. Within the expansion valve 700, the refrigerant is throttled and depressurized, becoming low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant, and enters the evaporator through the fourth pipe 540. Correspondingly, the low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the second cold flow layer 250 absorbs heat, becoming high-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant (increasing superheat), and enters the compressor 600 through the second cold flow outlet channel 260 and the first pipe 510. Within the compressor 600, it becomes high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant and enters the condenser through the second pipe 520.

[0033] However, this is not the only option. In other embodiments, the first cold liquid outlet channel 160 may be connected to the second cold liquid inlet channel 240 via an external pipeline, the second cold liquid outlet channel 260 may be directly connected to the third hot liquid inlet channel 310, the third hot liquid outlet channel 330 may be connected to the second hot liquid inlet channel 210 via an external pipeline, and the second hot liquid outlet channel 230 may be directly connected to the first cold liquid inlet channel 140.

[0034] It is important to note that the refrigerant can be either the traditional R134a refrigerant or the newer, environmentally friendly R290 refrigerant. R290 has a GWP (Global Warming Potential) of 0 and an ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential) of less than 20. Therefore, R290 possesses excellent environmental performance and thermophysical properties, and its operating pressure is at the same level as R134a. It is considered a promising alternative and is receiving increasing attention.

[0035] Specifically, the three heat exchange modules are vertically stacked to form an integrated structure, with each module having independent hot and cold flow channels. After the first heat exchange module 100 completes the initial heat exchange, the cold flow medium (low-temperature refrigerant) directly enters the second heat exchange module 200 through its internal channels to continue heat exchange, avoiding the use of external connecting pipes. The compressor 600 delivers the processed refrigerant to the third heat exchange module 300 for heat release, and then the hot flow medium (refrigerant) flows back to the second heat exchange module 200 through its internal channels. The refrigerant, regulated by the expansion valve 700, re-enters the first heat exchange module 100 to complete the cycle. This integrated design allows the three heat exchange modules to form a closed-loop system, significantly reducing external piping connection points.

[0036] Compared to existing technologies, this solution reduces the number of components and assembly steps by sharing fixed interfaces between heat exchange modules. Furthermore, the internal flow channel connection improves system sealing and reliability.

[0037] Furthermore, this solution does not adopt a direct connection design for the heat exchange modules. Instead, it retains some piping. The second cold liquid outlet channel 260 is connected to the inlet of the compressor 600 through the first pipe 510. The outlet of the compressor 600 is connected to the third hot liquid inlet channel 310 through the second pipe 520. The second hot liquid outlet channel 230 is connected to the inlet of the expansion valve 700 through the third pipe 530. The outlet of the expansion valve 700 is connected to the first cold liquid inlet channel 140 through the fourth pipe 540. In this way, on the one hand, it can avoid the mutual heat transfer between media at different temperatures caused by excessively long internal flow channels. On the other hand, it can significantly reduce the processing difficulty.

[0038] This application integrates evaporation, intermediate heat exchange, and condensation functions into a single unit, eliminating external connecting pipes between independent heat exchangers, reducing material costs and assembly time. The stacked structure of the heat exchange modules reduces the overall footprint, facilitating installation within the limited space of a vehicle. Direct connection of internal flow channels reduces fluid transport resistance and improves heat exchange efficiency. The integrated design simplifies the testing process, avoids mismatch errors between multiple components, and improves product consistency.

[0039] In one embodiment, the expansion valve 700 is an electronic expansion valve, a thermostatic expansion valve, or a manual expansion valve.

[0040] Specifically, the expansion valve 700 is located between the third pipe 530 and the fourth pipe 540, and is used to throttle and reduce the pressure of the high-pressure refrigerant flowing out from the second hot liquid outlet channel 230, so that it enters the first cold liquid inlet channel 140 after being converted to a low-temperature and low-pressure state. The electronic expansion valve can receive temperature or pressure signals from the controller to achieve precise flow regulation, and is suitable for applications requiring dynamic control; the thermostatic expansion valve achieves automatic flow matching through its own temperature sensing element, and is suitable for systems with stable operating conditions; the manual expansion valve allows for manual adjustment of a fixed opening degree, and is suitable for cost-sensitive or long-maintenance-cycle scenarios.

[0041] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first heat exchange module 100 perpendicular to the preset height direction is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second heat exchange module 200 perpendicular to the preset height direction. The orthographic projection of the second hot liquid outlet channel 230 along the preset height direction does not coincide with the orthographic projection of the first heat exchange module 100 along the preset height direction. Also, the orthographic projection of the second cold liquid outlet channel 260 along the preset height direction does not coincide with the orthographic projection of the first heat exchange module 100 along the preset height direction.

[0042] Specifically, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first heat exchange module 100 is smaller than that of the second heat exchange module 200, allowing the second heat exchange module 200 to have a larger coverage area in the stacking direction. This provides independently distributed space for the second hot liquid outflow channel 230 and the second cold liquid outflow channel 260. By setting the orthographic projections of the second hot liquid outflow channel 230 and the second cold liquid outflow channel 260 to not coincide with the first heat exchange module 100, vertical interference of fluid flow paths can be avoided, while reducing the lateral dimensions of the overall device.

[0043] Compared with existing technologies, this solution adjusts the cross-sectional area and projection relationship of the heat exchange modules to form a compact and non-interfering fluid channel distribution when multiple heat exchange modules are stacked, thereby simplifying the pipeline layout and reducing the overall volume.

[0044] In one embodiment, the first heat exchange module 100, the second heat exchange module 200, and the third heat exchange module 300 are all plate heat exchangers. Furthermore, the length directions of the first heat exchange module 100, the second heat exchange module 200, and the third heat exchange module 300 are the same, as are the width directions of the first heat exchange module 100, the second heat exchange module 200, and the third heat exchange module 300. It should be noted that the preset height direction is the height direction of the first heat exchange module 100, the second heat exchange module 200, and the third heat exchange module 300.

[0045] However, this is not the only one. In other embodiments, the first heat exchange module 100, the second heat exchange module 200, and the third heat exchange module 300 may also be sealed heat exchangers.

[0046] Specifically, the three heat exchange modules adopt a plate structure, forming alternating hot and cold flow layers through the stacking of plates 400. The hot and cold flows exchange heat within their respective channels. Since the length and width of the three modules are consistent, their overall layout forms a regular spatial arrangement, facilitating fixed connection through stacking. For example, the stacking direction of the plates 400 of each module is consistent with the installation direction of the device, ensuring that the distribution of the hot and cold flow layers matches the direction of external piping connections, thereby reducing the number of bends or diameter changes in the piping. Furthermore, the directional consistency allows for alignment of the interfaces between modules, achieving channel connectivity without additional adjustments to the piping routing.

[0047] Compared to existing technologies, this solution standardizes the connection interfaces between the three heat exchange modules by unifying their plate structure and directional layout, achieving flow channel alignment without additional adjustments. For example, if the three heat exchange modules use plates of different shapes or orientations stacked at 400°, it would require additional compensation structures or transition piping during assembly. This solution directly eliminates such problems through directional consistency.

[0048] Furthermore, in one embodiment, as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the widths of the first heat exchange module 100, the second heat exchange module 200, and the third heat exchange module 300 are all equal. The length of the second heat exchange module 200 is equal to the length of the third heat exchange module 300. Furthermore, the length of the first heat exchange module 100 is less than the length of the second heat exchange module 200. The second hot liquid outflow channel 230 and the second cold liquid outflow channel 260 are both distributed in the area of ​​the second heat exchange module 200 that protrudes from the first heat exchange module 100 along the length direction.

[0049] Specifically, the three heat exchange modules are stacked and fixed in a plate structure. The length difference between the first heat exchange module 100 and the second heat exchange module 200 forms a stepped layout, which exposes the flow channel port of the second heat exchange module 200 directly to the external space, reducing pipe bends and space waste, while also reducing the positioning accuracy requirements between the heat exchange modules during assembly.

[0050] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the length L of the first heat exchange module 100 and the length M of the second heat exchange module 200 satisfy 0.5≤L / M≤0.9. Preferably, L / M is equal to 0.7. Of course, L / M can also be other values ​​such as 0.5, 0.6, 0.8 or 0.9, which will not be listed here.

[0051] Specifically, when the length ratio of the first heat exchange module 100 to the second heat exchange module 200 is within this range, the portion of the second heat exchange module 200 protruding from the first heat exchange module 100 can form a reasonable extension area. For example, when L / M is 0.7, the extension area of ​​the second heat exchange module 200 can accommodate the arrangement of the second hot liquid outlet channel 230 and the second cold liquid outlet channel 260 without excessive extension leading to material waste. This proportional relationship ensures that the docking areas of the two heat exchange modules have sufficient overlap length, ensuring the stability of the stacked structure, while the space of the extension area is precisely controlled to optimize the compactness of the overall device.

[0052] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, one end of the second heat exchange module 200 protrudes along its length from the corresponding end of the first heat exchange module 100, and the other end of the second heat exchange module 200 is flush with the corresponding end of the first heat exchange module 100 along its length. In other words, the first heat exchange module 100 is located on one side of the second heat exchange module 200 along its length. Furthermore, the second hot liquid outlet channel 230 and the second cold liquid outlet channel 260 are located at the same end of the second heat exchange module 200 along its length.

[0053] Specifically, the second heat exchange module 200 extends outward at one end along its length to form a protruding area. This area can centrally house the second hot liquid outlet channel 230 and the second cold liquid outlet channel 260, allowing external pipelines to directly connect to this area and avoiding pipeline crossings or bends. The other end of the second heat exchange module 200 remains flush with the first heat exchange module 100, ensuring that the two completely overlap in a portion along their length, thereby reducing the overall length of the integrated device. For example, during assembly, bolt fixing holes can be pre-drilled at the protruding end of the second heat exchange module 200 to facilitate pipeline connection with the compressor 600 or expansion valve 700, while the flush end is fixed to the first heat exchange module 100 via welding or snap-fit ​​structures, achieving seamless connection between the modules.

[0054] In another embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown in the figure, both ends of the second heat exchange module 200 in the length direction respectively protrude from both ends of the first heat exchange module 100 in the length direction. That is, in the length direction, the first heat exchange module 100 is located in the middle region of the second heat exchange module 200. Moreover, the second hot fluid outlet channel 230 and the second cold fluid outlet channel 260 are respectively disposed at both ends of the second heat exchange module 200 in the length direction.

[0055] Specifically, both ends of the second heat exchange module 200 extend outward beyond the corresponding end portions of the first heat exchange module 100, forming two independent installation regions. The second hot fluid outlet channel 230 is disposed at the left end of the second heat exchange module 200, and the second cold fluid outlet channel 260 is disposed at the right end, such that the hot flow and the cold flow complete their flow processes at their respective ends. Since the outlet channels of the two fluids are physically isolated, the risk of fluid mixing is reduced, and the outward-extending structure provides a directly mating interface position for pipeline connection.

[0056] In one embodiment, as Figure 3 shown, the first hot fluid inlet channel 110 and the first hot fluid outlet channel 130 in the first heat exchange module 100 are diagonally arranged, and the first cold fluid inlet channel 140 and the first cold fluid outlet channel 160 are diagonally arranged. Further, a direction from the first hot fluid inlet channel 110 to the first hot fluid outlet channel 130 is defined as a first hot flow direction, and a direction from the first cold fluid inlet channel 140 to the first cold fluid outlet channel 160 is defined as a first cold flow direction, wherein an included angle A between the first hot flow direction and the first cold flow direction satisfies 90°<A<180°. That is, the flow directions of the first hot flow and the first cold flow in the length direction are opposite, and the two are in a counterflow relationship.

[0057] In other embodiments, the included angle A can also satisfy 0<A≤90°.

[0058] In one embodiment, as Figure 3 shown, the second hot fluid inlet channel 210 and the second hot fluid outlet channel 230 in the second heat exchange module 200 are diagonally arranged, and the second cold fluid inlet channel 240 and the second cold fluid outlet channel 260 are diagonally arranged. Further, a direction from the second hot fluid inlet channel 210 to the second hot fluid outlet channel 230 is defined as a second hot flow direction, and a direction from the second cold fluid inlet channel 240 to the second cold fluid outlet channel 260 is defined as a second cold flow direction, wherein an included angle B between the second hot flow direction and the second cold flow direction satisfies 90°<B<180°. That is, the flow directions of the second hot flow and the second cold flow in the length direction are opposite, and the two are in a counterflow relationship.

[0059] In other embodiments, the included angle B can also satisfy 0<B≤90°.

[0060] In one embodiment, as Figure 3 shown, the third hot fluid inlet channel 310 and the third hot fluid outlet channel 330 in the third heat exchange module 300 are arranged diagonally, the third cold fluid inlet channel 340 and the third cold fluid outlet channel 360 are arranged diagonally. Further, the direction from the third hot fluid inlet channel 310 to the third hot fluid outlet channel 330 is defined as the third hot fluid flow direction, the direction from the third cold fluid inlet channel 340 to the third cold fluid outlet channel 360 is defined as the third cold fluid flow direction, and the included angle C between the third hot fluid flow direction and the third cold fluid flow direction satisfies 90°<C<180°. That is, the flow directions of the third hot fluid and the third cold fluid in the length direction are opposite, and the two are in a counter-current relationship.

[0061] In other embodiments, the included angle C can also satisfy 0<C≤90°.

[0062] Wherein, diagonal arrangement means that the hot fluid inlet channel and the hot fluid outlet channel are respectively located at diagonal positions of the heat exchange module, and the cold fluid inlet channel and the cold fluid outlet channel are also located at diagonal positions. This can be specifically achieved by providing oblique flow channels on both sides of the plate 400 or adopting interleaved flow guide structures, which enhances heat exchange efficiency by extending the flow path of fluids between the plates 400.

[0063] Specifically, in each heat exchange module, the hot fluid and the cold fluid flow in diagonal directions, and the included angle formed between their flow directions is an obtuse angle. For example, in the first heat exchange module 100, the hot fluid flows in from the upper left corner and flows out to the lower right corner, while the cold fluid flows in from the upper right corner and flows out to the lower left corner, and their flow paths cross and cover most area of the plate 400. By controlling the included angle to be greater than 90° and less than 180°, the hot and cold fluids form a counter-current or nearly counter-current flow pattern between the plates 400, thereby prolonging the heat exchange time and improving the utilization rate of temperature difference.

[0064] It should be noted that a first hot fluid inlet pipe 111 is provided at the external opening of the first hot fluid inlet channel 110, a first hot fluid outlet pipe 131 is provided at the external opening of the first hot fluid outlet channel 130, and a first cold fluid inlet pipe 141 is provided at the external opening of the first cold fluid inlet channel 140; a second hot fluid outlet pipe 231 is provided at the external opening of the second hot fluid outlet channel 230, and a second cold fluid outlet pipe 261 is provided at the external opening of the second cold fluid outlet channel 260; a third hot fluid inlet pipe 311 is provided at the external opening of the third hot fluid inlet channel 310, a third cold fluid inlet pipe 341 is provided at the external opening of the third cold fluid inlet channel 340, and a third cold fluid outlet pipe 361 is provided at the external opening of the third cold fluid outlet channel 360.

[0065] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0066] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the patent protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

[0067] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0068] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0069] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0070] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0071] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0072] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein in the specification of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Claims

1. An integrated thermal management device, characterized in that, It includes three heat exchange modules stacked and fixedly connected along a preset height direction, namely a first heat exchange module (100), a second heat exchange module (200) and a third heat exchange module (300). Each heat exchange module is formed by stacking multiple plates (400), and hot flow layers and cold flow layers are formed alternately along the preset height direction between adjacent plates (400). The first hot liquid inlet channel (110) in the first heat exchange module (100) is connected to the first hot liquid outlet channel (130) through multiple first hot liquid layers (120), and the first cold liquid inlet channel (140) in the first heat exchange module (100) is connected to the first cold liquid outlet channel (160) through multiple first cold liquid layers (150); the second hot liquid inlet channel (210) in the second heat exchange module (200) is connected to the second hot liquid outlet channel (230) through multiple second hot liquid layers (220). The second cold flow inlet channel (240) in the second heat exchange module (200) is connected to the second cold flow outlet channel (260) through multiple second cold flow layers (250); the third hot flow inlet channel (310) in the third heat exchange module (300) is connected to the third hot flow outlet channel (330) through multiple third hot flow layers (320); and the third cold flow inlet channel (340) in the third heat exchange module (300) is connected to the third cold flow outlet channel (360) through multiple third cold flow layers (350). The first cold liquid outlet channel (160) is connected to the second cold liquid inlet channel (240), the second cold liquid outlet channel (260) is connected to the third hot liquid inlet channel (310), the third hot liquid outlet channel (330) is connected to the second hot liquid inlet channel (210), and the second hot liquid outlet channel (230) is connected to the first cold liquid inlet channel (140).

2. The integrated thermal management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cross-sectional area of ​​the first heat exchange module (100) perpendicular to the preset height direction is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second heat exchange module (200) perpendicular to the preset height direction. The orthographic projection of the second hot liquid outlet channel (230) along the preset height direction does not coincide with the orthographic projection of the first heat exchange module (100) along the preset height direction. The orthographic projection of the second cold liquid outlet channel (260) along the preset height direction does not coincide with the orthographic projection of the first heat exchange module (100) along the preset height direction.

3. The integrated thermal management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heat exchange module (100), the second heat exchange module (200) and the third heat exchange module (300) are all plate heat exchangers. The length direction of the first heat exchange module (100), the length direction of the second heat exchange module (200) and the length direction of the third heat exchange module (300) are the same. The width direction of the first heat exchange module (100), the width direction of the second heat exchange module (200) and the width direction of the third heat exchange module (300) are the same.

4. The integrated thermal management device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The length of the first heat exchange module (100) is less than the length of the second heat exchange module (200). The second hot liquid outflow channel (230) and the second cold liquid outflow channel (260) are both distributed in the area of ​​the second heat exchange module (200) that protrudes from the first heat exchange module (100) along the length direction.

5. The integrated thermal management device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The length L of the first heat exchange module (100) and the length M of the second heat exchange module (200) satisfy 0.5≤L / M≤0.

9.

6. The integrated thermal management device according to claim 4, characterized in that, One end of the second heat exchange module (200) protrudes along the length direction from the corresponding end of the first heat exchange module (100), and the other end of the second heat exchange module (200) and the corresponding end of the first heat exchange module (100) are flush along the length direction. Alternatively, the second heat exchange module (200) protrudes from both ends of the first heat exchange module (100) along the length direction, and the second hot liquid outflow channel (230) and the second cold liquid outflow channel (260) are respectively disposed at both ends of the second heat exchange module (200) along the length direction.

7. The integrated thermal management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first hot liquid inlet channel (110) and the first hot liquid outlet channel (130) are diagonally arranged, and the first cold liquid inlet channel (140) and the first cold liquid outlet channel (160) are diagonally arranged. The direction from the first hot liquid inlet channel (110) to the first hot liquid outlet channel (130) is defined as the first hot liquid flow direction, and the direction from the first cold liquid inlet channel (140) to the first cold liquid outlet channel (160) is defined as the first cold liquid flow direction. The angle A between the first hot liquid flow direction and the first cold liquid flow direction satisfies 90°. <A<180°; And / or, the second hot liquid inlet channel (210) and the second hot liquid outlet channel (230) are diagonally arranged, and the second cold liquid inlet channel (240) and the second cold liquid outlet channel (260) are diagonally arranged. The direction from the second hot liquid inlet channel (210) to the second hot liquid outlet channel (230) is defined as the second hot liquid flow direction, and the direction from the second cold liquid inlet channel (240) to the second cold liquid outlet channel (260) is defined as the second cold liquid flow direction. The angle B between the second hot liquid flow direction and the second cold liquid flow direction satisfies 90°. <B<180°; And / or, the third hot flow inlet channel (310) and the third hot flow outlet channel (330) are diagonally arranged, and the third cold flow inlet channel (340) and the third cold flow outlet channel (360) are diagonally arranged. The direction from the third hot flow inlet channel (310) to the third hot flow outlet channel (330) is defined as the third hot flow direction, and the direction from the third cold flow inlet channel (340) to the third cold flow outlet channel (360) is defined as the third cold flow direction. The angle C between the third hot flow direction and the third cold flow direction satisfies 90°. <C<180°。 8. The integrated thermal management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heat exchange module (100) is an evaporator, the third heat exchange module (300) is a condenser, and the second heat exchange module (200) is an intermediate heat exchanger.

9. The integrated thermal management device according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, It also includes a first pipeline (510), a second pipeline (520), a third pipeline (530), a fourth pipeline (540), a compressor (600), and an expansion valve (700). The first cold liquid outlet channel (160) is directly connected to the second cold liquid inlet channel (240). The second cold liquid outlet channel (260) is connected to the inlet of the compressor (600) through the first pipeline (510). The outlet of the compressor (600) is connected to the third hot liquid inlet channel (310) through the second pipeline (520). The third hot liquid outlet channel (330) is directly connected to the second hot liquid inlet channel (210). The second hot liquid outlet channel (230) is connected to the inlet of the expansion valve (700) through the third pipeline (530). The outlet of the expansion valve (700) is connected to the first cold liquid inlet channel (140) through the fourth pipeline (540).

10. The integrated thermal management device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The expansion valve (700) is an electronic expansion valve, a thermal expansion valve, or a manual expansion valve.

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