Battery pack and electric device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a battery pack and an electric device, wherein the battery pack comprises a battery box, a heat exchange module and a multi-way valve, the battery box comprises at least two accommodating cavities, and a battery module is arranged in each accommodating cavity; the heat exchange module comprises a heat exchange part corresponding to each accommodating cavity, and the heat exchange part is used for heat exchange of the battery module; the heat exchange part comprises at least two independent heat exchange flow paths; the multi-way valve is installed on the battery box, and the multi-way valve comprises a main inlet, a main outlet and a plurality of working flow ports; the main inlet and the main outlet are used for communication with an external heat exchange system; the multi-way valve is configured to enable at least part of the heat exchange flow paths to be communicated between the main inlet and the main outlet through the working flow ports, so as to realize heat exchange of the battery modules in different accommodating cavities; and the heat exchange part comprises at least two independent heat exchange flow paths, so that heat exchange of different regions in the accommodating cavities can be independently controlled to meet the heat exchange requirements of different working conditions of the battery pack.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of battery technology, and more specifically, to a battery pack and an electrical device. Background Technology

[0002] The battery pack contains battery modules and heat exchange modules for cooling the battery modules. The heat exchange modules can cool the battery modules. In related technologies, the cells in different areas of the battery module have different heat exchange requirements. How to meet the heat dissipation requirements is a research direction for battery packs. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a battery pack and electrical device that can independently control the heat exchange of the cells corresponding to different areas in the housing cavity, so as to meet the heat exchange requirements of the battery pack under different operating conditions.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this disclosure provides a battery pack, comprising: The battery housing includes at least two receiving cavities, in which battery modules are disposed; A heat exchange module includes heat exchange sections corresponding to the receiving cavities, the heat exchange sections being used for heat exchange of the battery module, wherein each heat exchange section includes at least two independent heat exchange flow paths; and A multi-way valve is installed in the battery housing and includes a main inlet, a main outlet, and multiple working ports. The main inlet and the main outlet are used to connect with an external heat exchange system. The multi-way valve is configured to allow at least a portion of the heat exchange flow path to connect to the main inlet and the main outlet through the working ports for heat exchange of the battery modules in different housing cavities. The heat exchange section includes at least two independent heat exchange flow paths, which can independently control the heat exchange of the cells in different areas of the housing cavity to meet the heat exchange requirements of the battery pack under different operating conditions.

[0005] In some possible implementations, the multi-way valve includes a first operating mode in which all the heat exchange flow paths are connected in parallel through the multi-way valve, thereby increasing the flow rate of the heat exchange medium through the heat exchange module for applications with higher heat exchange demands; and / or The multi-way valve includes a second operating mode. When the multi-way valve is in the second operating mode, the heat exchange flow paths in the same heat exchange section are connected in series through the multi-way valve and then connected in parallel to the heat exchange flow paths in another heat exchange section. This enables gradient heat exchange for battery cells in different areas of the same housing cavity, facilitating targeted matching of the heat dissipation requirements of battery cells in different areas; and / or The multi-way valve includes a third operating mode. When the multi-way valve is in the third operating mode, the heat exchange flow paths in the same heat exchange section are connected in parallel, and the heat exchange flow paths in another heat exchange section are connected in series, enabling gradient heat exchange for battery modules in multiple cavities; and / or The multi-way valve includes a fourth operating mode. When the multi-way valve is in the fourth operating mode, the heat exchange flow paths of all the heat exchange sections are connected in series through the multi-way valve, which can balance the temperature of different areas in the same accommodating cavity, reduce the temperature difference, and also balance the temperature between different accommodating cavities, reducing the temperature difference.

[0006] In some possible implementations, the multi-way valve includes a fifth operating mode, in which some heat exchange flow paths in the heat exchange section are connected in parallel through the multi-way valve, so that even if a battery module in a portion of the battery pack's receiving cavity fails, the heat exchange module can still exchange heat with the battery modules in the portion of the normal receiving cavity; and / or The multi-way valve includes a sixth working mode. When the multi-way valve is in the sixth working mode, some of the heat exchange flow paths in the heat exchange section are connected in series through the multi-way valve. When the battery module in part of the battery pack's receiving cavity fails, the heat exchange module can still exchange heat for the battery module in part of the normal receiving cavity.

[0007] In some possible implementations, each heat exchange section includes an outer heat exchange flow path extending near the sidewall region of the receiving cavity, and at least one inner heat exchange flow path arranged near the central region of the receiving cavity and located inside the outer heat exchange flow path, wherein the outer heat exchange flow path can exchange heat for the battery cells in the region of the receiving cavity near the sidewall of the receiving cavity, and the inner heat exchange flow path can exchange heat for the battery cells arranged in the region of the receiving cavity near the central region of the receiving cavity.

[0008] In some possible implementations, the multi-way valve includes a seventh operating mode. In this seventh operating mode, at least a portion of the inlet ends of the outer heat exchange flow paths of the heat exchange section are connected to the main liquid inlet, and the outlet ends are connected to the main liquid outlet. Different outer heat exchange flow paths are connected in parallel via the multi-way valve, enabling heat exchange of the battery cells in the region near the side wall of the housing cavity. This achieves heat exchange and insulation of the battery pack while reducing energy consumption; and / or The multi-way valve includes an eighth operating mode. When the multi-way valve is in the eighth operating mode, the inlet end of at least part of the inner heat exchange flow path of the heat exchange section is connected to the main liquid inlet, and the outlet end is connected to the main liquid outlet. Different inner heat exchange flow paths can be connected in parallel through the multi-way valve to exchange heat with the battery cells in the area near the center of the housing cavity. While achieving heat exchange and insulation of the battery pack, energy consumption can be reduced.

[0009] In some possible implementations, the battery housing includes a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity, and the heat exchange module includes a first heat exchange section and a second heat exchange section. The first receiving cavity is provided with the first heat exchange section, and the second receiving cavity is provided with the second heat exchange section. The first heat exchange section includes a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path, and the second heat exchange section includes a third heat exchange flow path and a fourth heat exchange flow path.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the battery housing includes a tray with cavities and a central beam disposed in the cavities, the central beam dividing the cavities into a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity, the first receiving cavity and the second receiving cavity being symmetrically arranged about the central beam, which facilitates the uniform distribution of the weight of the battery pack, thereby improving the balance of the battery pack.

[0011] In some possible implementations, the first heat exchange flow path extends near the sidewall region of the first receiving cavity, the second heat exchange flow path is arranged near the central region of the first receiving cavity, and the second heat exchange flow path is located inside the first heat exchange flow path; and / or The fourth heat exchange flow path extends close to the side wall region of the second receiving cavity, the third heat exchange flow path is arranged close to the center region of the first receiving cavity, and the third heat exchange flow path is located inside the fourth heat exchange flow path.

[0012] The first heat exchange flow path can exchange heat with the battery cell located near the side wall region in the first receiving cavity; the second heat exchange flow path can exchange heat with the battery cell located near the center region in the first receiving cavity; the third heat exchange flow path can dissipate heat with the battery cell located near the center region in the second receiving cavity; and the fourth heat exchange flow path can exchange heat with the battery cell located near the side wall region in the second receiving cavity. In some possible implementations, the heat exchange module includes a heat exchange cold plate disposed inside the battery housing. The heat exchange cold plate forms a first heat exchange portion disposed in the first receiving cavity and a second heat exchange portion disposed in the second receiving cavity. A first battery module is disposed in the first receiving cavity, and the first heat exchange portion is located at the bottom of the first battery module for heat dissipation of the first heat exchange module. A second battery module is disposed in the second receiving cavity, and the second heat exchange portion is located at the bottom of the second battery module for heat dissipation of the second heat exchange module.

[0013] In some possible implementations, the heat exchange cold plate forms a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path. The first heat exchange flow path includes at least two first branch paths, which makes the heat exchange medium more evenly distributed when flowing in the first heat exchange flow path, matching local heat exchange needs and avoiding local overheating or underheating caused by uneven flow distribution. The second heat exchange flow path includes at least two second branch paths, which makes the heat exchange medium more evenly distributed when flowing in the second heat exchange flow path, matching local heat exchange needs and avoiding local overheating or underheating caused by uneven flow distribution; and / or The heat exchange cold plate forms the third heat exchange flow path and the fourth heat exchange flow path. The third heat exchange flow path includes at least two third branch paths, which makes the heat exchange medium more evenly distributed when flowing in the third heat exchange flow path, matches the local heat exchange demand, and avoids the phenomenon of local overheating or underheating caused by uneven flow distribution. The fourth heat exchange flow path includes at least two fourth branch paths, which makes the heat exchange medium more evenly distributed when flowing in the fourth heat exchange flow path, matches the local heat exchange demand, and avoids the phenomenon of local overheating or underheating caused by uneven flow distribution.

[0014] In some possible implementations, the multi-way valve is located outside the receiving cavity to avoid occupying space within the receiving cavity, allowing for the placement of more battery cells.

[0015] A second aspect of this disclosure provides an electrical device including a battery pack as provided in the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0016] According to the above technical solution, the battery pack includes a battery housing, a heat exchange module, and a multi-way valve. The battery housing includes at least two receiving cavities, in which battery modules are disposed. The heat exchange module includes heat exchange sections corresponding to each receiving cavity for heat exchange of the battery modules. Each heat exchange section includes at least two independent heat exchange flow paths. The multi-way valve is installed in the battery housing and includes a main liquid inlet, a main liquid outlet, and multiple working flow ports. The main liquid inlet and the main liquid outlet are used to connect with an external heat exchange system. The multi-way valve is configured to allow at least some heat exchange flow paths to be connected between the main liquid inlet and the main liquid outlet through the working flow ports for heat exchange of battery modules in different receiving cavities. The heat exchange section includes at least two independent heat exchange flow paths, which can be connected in series and parallel using the multi-way valve to achieve independent control of the heat exchange of cells in different areas of the receiving cavity, thereby meeting the heat exchange requirements of the battery pack under different operating conditions.

[0017] Other features and advantages of this disclosure will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the present disclosure and form part of the specification. They are used together with the following detailed description to explain the present disclosure, but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heat exchange cold plate and multi-way valve provided in the exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, which are installed in the battery box; wherein, the top cover is not shown; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery pack provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, wherein the top cover is not shown; Figure 3 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the heat exchange cold plate provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 4 This is publicly available Figure 3 A partial view of position A in the image; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between the heat exchange flow path of the multi-way valve and the heat exchange cold plate provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange medium flow path provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. When the multi-way valve is in the first working mode, the dashed line schematically shows the flow path of the heat exchange medium. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange medium flow path provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. When the multi-way valve is in the second working mode, the dashed line schematically shows the flow path of the heat exchange medium. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange medium flow path provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. When the multi-way valve is in the third working mode, the dashed line schematically shows the flow path of the heat exchange medium. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange medium flow path provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. When the multi-way valve is in the fourth working mode, the dashed line schematically shows the flow path of the heat exchange medium. Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange medium flow path provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. When the multi-way valve is in the fifth working mode, the dashed line schematically shows the flow path of the heat exchange medium. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange medium flow path provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. When the multi-way valve is in the sixth working mode, the dashed line schematically shows the flow path of the heat exchange medium. Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange medium flow path provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. When the multi-way valve is in the seventh working mode, the dashed line schematically shows the flow path of the heat exchange medium. Figure 13This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange medium flow path provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. When the multi-way valve is in the eighth working mode, the dashed line schematically shows the flow path of the heat exchange medium.

[0019] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 10-Battery housing; 10a-Tray; 10b-Cavity; 11-Receiving cavity; 111-First receiving cavity; 112-Second receiving cavity; 12-Intermediate beam; 20-Heat exchange module; 200-Heat exchange cold plate; 21-Heat exchange section; 211-First heat exchange section; 212-Second heat exchange section; 213-Heat exchange flow path; 213a-Inlet end; 213b-Outlet end; 213c-Outer heat exchange flow path; 213d-Inner heat exchange flow path; 2131-First heat exchange flow path; 2131a-First Flow branch path; 2132-Second heat exchange flow path; 2132a-Second flow branch path; 2133-Third heat exchange flow path; 2133a-Third flow branch path; 2134-Fourth heat exchange flow path; 2134a-Fourth flow branch path; 30-Multi-way valve; 31-Main inlet; 32-Main outlet; 33-Working outlet; 331-First working outlet; 332-Second working outlet; 40-Battery module; 41-First battery module; 42-Second battery module; 50-Connector; 1000-Battery pack. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0021] In this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, directional terms such as "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours of the component or structure itself. Furthermore, it should be noted that terms such as "first" and "second" are used to distinguish one element from another and do not indicate sequence or importance. Additionally, in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals in different drawings denote the same element.

[0022] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the first aspect of this disclosure provides a battery pack 1000, wherein the battery pack 1000 includes a battery housing 10, a heat exchange module 20 and a multi-way valve 30, wherein the battery housing 10 includes at least two receiving cavities 11, wherein a battery module 40 is disposed in the receiving cavity 11, and the heat exchange module 20 includes a heat exchange section 21 corresponding to each receiving cavity 11, the heat exchange section 21 being used for heat exchange of the battery module 40, and the heat exchange section 21 including at least two independent heat exchange flow paths 213.

[0023] In addition, a multi-way valve 30 is installed on the battery housing 10. The multi-way valve 30 includes a main liquid inlet 31, a main liquid outlet 32 ​​and multiple working flow ports 33. The main liquid inlet 31 and the main liquid outlet 32 ​​are used to connect with an external heat exchange system. The multi-way valve 30 is configured to allow at least a portion of the heat exchange flow path 213 to be connected to the main liquid inlet 31 and the main liquid outlet 32 ​​through the working flow ports 33 for heat exchange of the battery modules 40 in different accommodating cavities 11.

[0024] In the above embodiment, the heat exchange section 21 includes two independent heat exchange flow paths 213. The series and parallel connection between the heat exchange flow paths 213 can be realized by using the multi-way valve 30, so as to independently control the heat exchange of the cells in different areas of the housing cavity 11 to meet the heat exchange requirements of the battery pack under different operating conditions.

[0025] In some embodiments, the heat exchange medium in the external heat exchange system (e.g., the vehicle's air conditioning system) is introduced into the heat exchange flow path 213 through the multi-way valve 30 and flows in the heat exchange flow path 213 to exchange heat with the battery module 40 cells. The heat exchange module 20 includes heat exchange sections 21 corresponding to the receiving cavities 11 one by one. Each heat exchange section 21 includes at least two independent heat exchange flow paths 213, which can exchange heat with the battery modules 40 in different receiving cavities 11 respectively, realizing independent control of heat exchange in different receiving cavities 11. Furthermore, the at least two independent heat exchange flow paths 213 of the same heat exchange section 21 can also exchange heat with the battery cells of the battery modules 40 in different areas of the same receiving cavity 11, so that the heat exchange module 20 in different receiving cavities 11 and the heat exchange module 20 in different areas of the same receiving cavity 11 can be independently controlled to meet the thermal management requirements of the battery pack 1000 under different operating conditions.

[0026] It should be noted that the heat exchange section 21 mentioned above includes at least two independent heat exchange flow paths 213. This can be understood as the fact that there is no direct connection between different heat exchange flow paths 213 of the same heat exchange section 21. However, different heat exchange flow paths 213 of the same heat exchange section 21 can be connected through external components such as multi-way valves 30, which will not be elaborated here.

[0027] In addition, the heat exchange between the heat exchange path 213 and the battery module 40 can be used to heat the battery module 40 or to cool it down, and there are no restrictions here.

[0028] It should be understood that the multi-way valve 30 has multiple operating modes. By switching between different operating modes of the multi-way valve 30, the thermal management requirements of the battery pack 1000 under different operating conditions can be met.

[0029] In some implementations, such as Figure 6As shown, the multi-way valve 30 includes a first operating mode. When the multi-way valve 30 is in the first operating mode, all heat exchange flow paths 213 are connected in parallel through the multi-way valve 30. Each of the multiple parallel heat exchange flow paths 213 can be directly connected to the external heat exchange system through the main liquid inlet 31 and the main liquid outlet 32, so that the flow rate of the heat exchange medium in the external heat exchange system into the entire heat exchange module 20 through the multi-way valve 30 is large, which can be used for working conditions with large heat exchange requirements. For example, when the battery pack 1000 is super-fast charged or fast charged, the battery module 40 in the battery pack 1000 generates a lot of heat, so the multi-way valve 30 can be in this operating mode to dissipate heat from the battery module 40 of the battery pack 1000.

[0030] In some embodiments, the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30 includes at least four first working ports 331 and at least four second working ports 332. Each heat exchange flow path 213 includes an inlet end 213a and an outlet end 213b. The inlet end 213a is connected to the first working port 331, and the outlet end 213b is connected to the second working port 332.

[0031] Based on the above-mentioned connection relationship between the multi-way valve 30 and the heat exchange flow path 213, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the first working mode, the inlet end 213a of each heat exchange flow path 213 is connected to the main liquid inlet 31 of the multi-way valve 30 through the first working flow port 331, and the outlet end 213b of the heat exchange flow path 213 is connected to the main liquid outlet 32 ​​of the multi-way valve 30 through the second working flow port 332, so that multiple heat exchange flow paths 213 are connected in parallel through the multi-way valve 30.

[0032] In some implementations, such as Figure 7 As shown, the multi-way valve 30 includes a second operating mode. When the multi-way valve 30 is in the second operating mode, the heat exchange flow paths 213 in the same heat exchange section 21 are connected in series through the multi-way valve 30 and then connected in parallel to the heat exchange flow path 213 of another heat exchange section 21. This can be used for situations where the required heat exchange of the battery cells in different areas of the battery module 40 in the same housing cavity 11 is different. For example, during normal driving, the heat generation of the battery cells in different areas of the same housing cavity 11 is different, resulting in a large temperature difference between different areas of the same housing cavity 11. The heat exchange flow paths 213 in the same heat exchange section 21 can be connected in series through the multi-way valve 30, so that the heat exchange medium in the external heat exchange system can flow in the heat exchange flow path 213 connected in series in the same heat exchange section 21 after being introduced into the heat exchange module 20 through the multi-way valve 30. This can perform gradient heat exchange on the battery cells in different areas of the same housing cavity 11, which is convenient for directional matching of the heat dissipation requirements of the battery cells in different areas.

[0033] In some embodiments, the battery module 40 within the same housing cavity 11 can be divided into different regions. For example, it can be divided into a high-temperature region with a higher temperature and a low-temperature region with a lower temperature. The heat exchange medium flowing in the series-connected heat exchange flow path 213 can first pass through the high-temperature region to rapidly cool the cells in the high-temperature region, while the heat exchange medium itself is heated. Then, the preheated heat exchange medium passes through the low-temperature region to cool the cells in the low-temperature region. This reduces the heat exchange intensity of the heat exchange medium and avoids over-cooling. In addition, this method can also balance the temperature difference between the cells in different regions of the battery module 40 within the same housing cavity 11, thereby reducing the temperature difference between different cells.

[0034] As mentioned above, the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30 includes at least four first working ports 331 and at least four second working ports 332. The heat exchange flow path 213 includes an inlet end 213a and an outlet end 213b. The inlet end 213a is connected to the first working port 331, and the outlet end 213b is connected to the second working port 332.

[0035] Based on the connection relationship between the multi-way valve 30 and the heat exchange flow path 213, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the second working mode, multiple heat exchange flow paths 213 of the same heat exchange section 21 are connected in series through their respective first working port 331 and second working port 332. The inlet end 213a of one of the two connected heat exchange flow paths 213 is connected to the second working port 332 corresponding to the outlet end 213b of the other through the corresponding first working port 331. In at least two heat exchange flow paths 213 connected in series in the same heat exchange section 21, the inlet end 213a of the heat exchange flow path 213 at the beginning is connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working port 331, and the heat exchange flow path 213 at the end is connected to the main liquid outlet 32. With this setting, the heat exchange flow paths 213 in the same heat exchange section 21 can be connected in series through the multi-way valve 30 and then connected in parallel to the heat exchange flow path 213 of another heat exchange section 21.

[0036] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve 30 includes a third operating mode. When the multi-way valve 30 is in the third operating mode, the heat exchange flow paths 213 in the same heat exchange section 21 are connected in parallel and then connected in series to the heat exchange flow path 213 of another heat exchange section 21. This can be used when the battery modules 40 in different accommodating cavities 11 require different amounts of heat exchange. For example, if the heat generation of the battery modules 40 in different accommodating cavities 11 is different, resulting in a large temperature difference between the different accommodating cavities 11, the heat exchange flow paths 213 in the same heat exchange section 21 can be connected in parallel and then connected in series to the heat exchange flow path 213 of another heat exchange section 21. This allows the heat exchange medium in the external heat exchange system to flow in series in the heat exchange flow paths 213 of different heat exchange sections 21 after being introduced into the heat exchange module 20 through the multi-way valve 30, thereby achieving gradient heat exchange for the battery modules 40 in at least two accommodating cavities 11 and balancing the temperature difference between the battery modules 40 in different accommodating cavities 11. For example, the heat exchange medium can first pass through the higher temperature container 11 to quickly cool down the higher temperature container 11. During this process, the heat exchange medium is heated by passing through the higher temperature container 11, and then the preheated heat exchange medium passes through the lower temperature container 11 to cool the battery module 40 in the lower temperature container 11. The heat exchange intensity of the heat exchange medium is weakened, avoiding over-cooling, and also balancing the temperature difference between different containers 11.

[0037] Furthermore, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the third operating mode, such as Figure 8 As shown, the heat exchange flow path 213 in the same heat exchange section 21 is connected in parallel and then connected in series to the heat exchange flow path 213 in another heat exchange section 21. When the battery module 40 in the partial receiving cavity 11 experiences thermal runaway, the heat of the runaway battery module 40 can be absorbed by other battery modules 40 under normal operating conditions. This helps to improve the temperature control efficiency and control capability of the thermally runaway battery module, reduce the risk of thermal runaway propagation, and thus help to improve the safety of the battery pack 1000.

[0038] As mentioned above, the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30 includes at least four first working ports 331 and at least four second working ports 332. The heat exchange flow path 213 includes an inlet end 213a and an outlet end 213b. The inlet end 213a is connected to the first working port 331, and the outlet end 213b is connected to the second working port 332.

[0039] Based on the connection relationship between the multi-way valve 30 and the heat exchange flow path 213, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the third working mode, the heat exchange flow paths 213 corresponding to different heat exchange sections 21 are connected in series through their respective first working ports 331 and second working ports 332. The inlet end 213a of one of the two connected heat exchange flow paths 213 is connected to the second working port 332 corresponding to the outlet end 213b of the other through the corresponding first working port 331. In at least two heat exchange flow paths 213 connected in series, the inlet end 213a of the heat exchange flow path 213 at the beginning is connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working port 331, and the heat exchange flow path 213 at the end is connected to the main liquid outlet 32. This enables the heat exchange flow paths 213 in the same heat exchange section 21 to be connected in parallel and then connected in series to the heat exchange flow path 213 of another heat exchange section 21.

[0040] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve 30 includes a fourth operating mode, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the fourth operating mode, such as Figure 9 As shown, the heat exchange flow paths 213 of all heat exchange sections 21 are connected in series via multi-way valves 30. When the multi-way valves 30 are in this working mode, they can be used in situations where the temperature difference between the cells in different areas of the same housing cavity 11 is large, and the temperature difference between the battery modules 40 in different housing cavities 11 is large, requiring temperature equalization. For example, when the battery modules 40 in different housing cavities 11 generate heat differently, resulting in a large temperature difference, the heat exchange flow paths 213 of different heat exchange sections 21 are connected in series. This allows the heat exchange medium to flow through the heat exchange flow path 213 first through the housing cavity 11 with a higher temperature. The heat exchange medium can quickly cool down the battery modules 40 in the housing cavity 11 with a higher temperature. In this process, the heat exchange medium can be preheated. The preheated heat exchange medium then flows through the housing cavity 11 with a lower temperature to cool down the battery modules 40 in the housing cavity 11 with a lower temperature. The heat exchange intensity of the preheated heat exchange medium is weakened, avoiding overcooling of the battery modules 40 in the housing cavity 11 with a lower temperature. In addition, rapid cooling of the higher-temperature receiving cavity 11 and relatively gentle cooling of the lower-temperature receiving cavity 11 can balance the temperature between different receiving cavities 11 and reduce the temperature difference between them.

[0041] In the above embodiment, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the fourth operating mode, the heat exchange flow paths 213 of the same heat exchange section 21 are connected in series. The heat exchange medium can first pass through the higher temperature area in the receiving cavity 11 to rapidly cool the battery cells in the higher temperature area. During this process, the heat exchange medium is preheated. After preheating, the heat exchange medium passes through the series-connected heat exchange flow paths 213 to cool the battery cells in the lower temperature area of ​​the receiving cavity 11. The heat exchange intensity of the preheated heat exchange medium is weakened, which can more gently heat the battery cells in the lower temperature area of ​​the receiving cavity 11 and avoid overcooling. In addition, in this mode, the heat exchange medium can rapidly cool the battery cells in the higher temperature area of ​​the receiving cavity 11, while gently cooling the battery cells in the lower temperature area of ​​the receiving cavity 11, so as to balance the temperature between the battery cells in different areas of the same receiving cavity 11 and reduce the temperature difference between different areas of the same receiving cavity 11.

[0042] As can be seen from the above, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the fourth working mode, the heat exchange module 20 can be used to balance the temperature between different receiving cavities 11 and between different areas of the same receiving cavity 11.

[0043] As mentioned above, the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30 includes at least four first working ports 331 and at least four second working ports 332. The heat exchange flow path 213 includes an inlet end 213a and an outlet end 213b. The inlet end 213a is connected to the first working port 331, and the outlet end 213b is connected to the second working port 332.

[0044] Based on the above-mentioned connection relationship between the heat exchange flow path 213 and the multi-way valve 30, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the fourth working mode, the heat exchange flow paths 213 of all heat exchange units 21 are connected in series through their respective first working ports 331 and second working ports 332. The inlet end 213a of one of the two connected heat exchange flow paths 213 is connected to the second working port 332 corresponding to the outlet end 213b of the other through the corresponding first working port 331. In the multiple heat exchange flow paths 213 connected in series, the inlet end 213a of the heat exchange flow path 213 at the beginning is connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working port 331, and the heat exchange flow path 213 at the end is connected to the main liquid outlet 32, so as to realize the series connection between the heat exchange flow paths 213 of all heat exchange units 21.

[0045] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve 30 includes a fifth operating mode, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the fifth operating mode, such as Figure 10As shown, the heat exchange flow path 213 in part of the heat exchange section 21 is connected in parallel through the multi-way valve 30. When the battery module 40 in part of the receiving cavity 11 of the battery pack 1000 fails, the multi-way valve 30 can be put into the fifth working mode, and the heat exchange module 20 can still exchange heat for the battery module 40 in part of the normal receiving cavity 11.

[0046] As mentioned above, the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30 includes at least four first working ports 331 and at least four second working ports 332. The heat exchange flow path 213 includes an inlet end 213a and an outlet end 213b. The inlet end 213a is connected to the first working port 331, and the outlet end 213b is connected to the second working port 332.

[0047] Based on the aforementioned connection relationship between the heat exchange flow path 213 and the multi-way valve 30, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the fifth working mode, the inlet end 213a of the heat exchange flow path 213 of some of the heat exchange sections 21 are all connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working flow port 331, and the outlet end 213b are all connected to the main liquid outlet 32 ​​through the corresponding second working flow port 332. This enables the heat exchange flow path 213 in some of the heat exchange sections 21 to be connected in parallel through the multi-way valve 30, and the heat exchange medium can flow in the heat exchange flow path 213 in the receiving cavity 11 under normal working conditions for heat exchange of the battery module 40 in the receiving cavity 11.

[0048] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve 30 also includes a sixth operating mode, wherein when the multi-way valve 30 is in the sixth operating mode, such as Figure 11 As shown, the heat exchange flow path 213 in part of the heat exchange section 21 is connected in series through a multi-way valve 30. When the battery module 40 in part of the receiving cavity 11 of the battery pack 1000 fails, the multi-way valve 30 can be put into the sixth working mode, and the heat exchange module 20 can still exchange heat for the battery module 40 in part of the normal receiving cavity 11.

[0049] As mentioned above, the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30 includes at least four first working ports 331 and at least four second working ports 332. The heat exchange flow path 213 includes an inlet end 213a and an outlet end 213b. The inlet end 213a is connected to the first working port 331, and the outlet end 213b is connected to the second working port 332.

[0050] Based on the connection relationship between the heat exchange flow path 213 and the multi-way valve 30 mentioned above, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the sixth working mode, the heat exchange flow paths 213 in at least two heat exchange sections 21 are connected in series through the multi-way valve 30.

[0051] At least two heat exchange sections 21 have a portion of heat exchange flow paths 213 connected in series via corresponding first working ports 331 and second working ports 332. The inlet end 213a of one of the connected heat exchange flow paths 213 is connected to the second working port 332 corresponding to the outlet end 213b of the other via the corresponding first working port 331. The inlet end 213a of the heat exchange flow path 213 at the beginning of the series of heat exchange flow paths 213 is connected to the main liquid inlet 31 via the corresponding first working port 331, and the heat exchange flow path 213 at the end is connected to the main liquid outlet 32. With this arrangement, the heat exchange flow paths 213 in at least two heat exchange sections 21 can be connected in series via a multi-way valve 30.

[0052] Furthermore, in some embodiments, when a battery module 40 in a portion of the housing cavity 11 of the battery pack 1000 malfunctions, the heat exchange module 20 can exchange heat with the battery modules 40 in other housing cavities 11 under normal operating conditions. Whether the multi-way valve 30 is in the fifth or sixth operating mode can be determined according to actual needs. For example, when rapid cooling of the battery module 40 in the housing cavity 11 under normal operating conditions is required, the multi-way valve 30 can be in the fifth operating mode. The heat exchange flow paths 213 of the heat exchange section 21 in the housing cavity 11 under normal operating conditions are connected in parallel. This allows the heat exchange flow paths 213 of the heat exchange section 21 in the housing cavity 11 under normal operating conditions to be connected to the main inlet 31 and the main outlet 32 ​​respectively through the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30. The heat exchange medium from the external heat exchange system is directly input into the multiple heat exchange flow paths 213 in the housing cavity 11 under normal operating conditions through the multi-way valve 30, resulting in a larger flow rate of the heat exchange medium through the housing cavity 11, thus achieving rapid cooling. When the temperature difference between different areas in the receiving cavity 11 under normal operating conditions is large, the multi-way valve 30 can be put into the sixth working mode, which will not be elaborated here.

[0053] In some embodiments, each heat exchange section 21 includes an outer heat exchange flow path 213c extending near the sidewall region of the receiving cavity 11, and at least one inner heat exchange flow path 213d disposed near the central region of the receiving cavity 11 and located inside the outer heat exchange flow path 213c. The outer heat exchange flow path 213c is positioned closer to the sidewall region of the receiving cavity 11 than the inner heat exchange flow path 213d. The outer heat exchange flow path 213c can exchange heat for the battery cells in the region near the inner sidewall of the receiving cavity 11, while the inner heat exchange flow path 213d can exchange heat for the battery cells disposed near the central region of the receiving cavity 11.

[0054] In the above embodiment, the outer heat exchange flow path 213c and the inner heat exchange flow path 213d can jointly achieve heat exchange for the entire battery module 40 in the housing cavity 11. The housing cavity 11 is divided into different heat exchange flow paths 213 for heat exchange of the battery cells in different areas of the battery module 40 in the housing cavity 11, which can realize independent temperature control of the battery cells in different areas of the battery module 40 in the same housing cavity 11. In addition, the outer heat exchange flow path 213c and the inner heat exchange flow path 213d are respectively connected to the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30. The multi-way valve 30 can dynamically adjust the flow direction and flow rate of the heat exchange medium in the outer heat exchange flow path 213c and the inner heat exchange flow path 213d to more accurately match the heat exchange requirements of the battery pack 1000.

[0055] In some embodiments, when the heat exchange section 21 includes an outer heat exchange flow path 213c and an inner heat exchange flow path 213d, the multi-way valve 30 includes a seventh operating mode. When the multi-way valve 30 is in the seventh operating mode, such as... Figure 12 As shown, at least part of the heat exchange section 21 has an inlet end 213a of the outer heat exchange flow path 213c connected to the main liquid inlet 31, and an outlet end 213b connected to the main liquid outlet 32. Different outer heat exchange flow paths 213c are connected in parallel through a multi-way valve 30, which can be used to exchange heat on the battery cells in the area near the side wall of the housing cavity 11. When the multi-way valve 30 is in this working mode, the heat exchange module 20 of the battery pack 1000 can be in a heat preservation condition, which can reduce energy consumption while achieving heat preservation.

[0056] It should be understood that this thermal insulation condition refers to the battery pack 1000 maintaining a preset temperature range.

[0057] In practical applications, when the weather is cold, the temperature of the area near the side wall of the housing cavity 11 of the battery pack 1000 is usually low. In addition, the multi-way valve 30 can be put into the seventh working mode so that the heat exchange medium in the external heat exchange system flows only in the outer heat exchange flow path 213c of the heat exchange section 21, which can reduce energy consumption while achieving heating and heat preservation.

[0058] As mentioned above, the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30 includes at least four first working ports 331 and at least four second working ports 332. The heat exchange flow path 213 includes an inlet end 213a and an outlet end 213b. The inlet end 213a of the heat exchange flow path 213 is connected to the first working port 331, and the outlet end 213b of the heat exchange flow path 213 is connected to the second working port 332.

[0059] In some embodiments, the inlet end 213a of the outer heat exchange flow path 213c can be connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working flow port 331, and the outlet end 213b can be connected to the main liquid outlet 32 ​​through the corresponding second working flow port 332, so that the heat exchange medium in the external heat exchange system can flow in the outer heat exchange flow path 213c through the multi-way valve 30 for heat exchange of the battery cells in the area near the side wall of the housing cavity 11.

[0060] In some embodiments, when the heat exchange section 21 includes an outer heat exchange flow path 213c and an inner heat exchange flow path 213d, the multi-way valve 30 may further include an eighth operating mode. When the multi-way valve 30 is in the eighth operating mode, such as... Figure 13 As shown, at least part of the heat exchange section 21 has an inlet end 213a of the inner heat exchange flow path 213d connected to the main liquid inlet 31, and an outlet end 213b connected to the main liquid outlet 32. Different inner heat exchange flow paths 213d are connected in parallel through a multi-way valve 30, which can be used to exchange heat on the battery cells in the housing cavity 11 near the center of the housing cavity 11. When the multi-way valve 30 is in this working mode, the heat exchange module 20 of the battery pack 1000 can be in a heat preservation condition, which can reduce energy consumption while achieving heat preservation.

[0061] It should be understood that this thermal insulation condition refers to the battery pack 1000 maintaining a preset temperature range.

[0062] For example, when the ambient temperature is high, the temperature of the area near the center of the housing 11 is high, which can cause the multi-way valve 30 to be in the eighth working mode, thereby allowing the heat exchange medium to flow in the inner heat exchange channel to cool the battery cells near the center of the housing 11, thereby cooling the battery pack 1000 while reducing energy consumption.

[0063] As mentioned above, the working port 33 of the multi-way valve 30 includes at least four first working ports 331 and at least four second working ports 332. The heat exchange flow path 213 includes an inlet end 213a and an outlet end 213b. The inlet end 213a of the heat exchange flow path 213 is connected to the first working port 331, and the outlet end 213b of the heat exchange flow path 213 is connected to the second working port 332.

[0064] In some embodiments, the inlet end 213a of the inner heat exchange flow path 213d is connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working flow port 331, and the outlet end 213b is connected to the main liquid outlet 32 ​​through the corresponding second working flow port 332, so that the heat exchange medium in the external heat exchange system can flow in the inner heat exchange flow path 213d through the multi-way valve 30 for heat exchange of the battery cells in the housing cavity 11 near the center of the housing cavity 11.

[0065] In summary, the appropriate operating mode of the multi-way valve 30 can be selected according to the heat exchange requirements and operating conditions of the battery modules 40 in different accommodating cavities 11. This not only helps to improve the temperature control capability of each battery module, but also helps to reduce the energy consumption of the battery pack 1000 and improve the safety of the battery pack 1000.

[0066] In some embodiments, each receiving cavity 11 is provided with a battery module 40, which includes multiple battery cells, and the multi-way valve 30 can be located outside the receiving cavity 11 to avoid occupying space in the receiving cavity 11, so that more battery cells can be arranged in the receiving cavity 11.

[0067] It should be understood that, in some embodiments, the multi-way valve 30 may include a valve body and multiple openings on the valve body for the flow of heat exchange medium. The valve body has internal channels and a valve core, and the different operating modes of the multi-way valve 30 can be switched by controlling the movement of the valve core. The multi-way valve 30 may be a multi-way valve from the related art, as long as it can achieve the functions described in this disclosure; no limitation is made here.

[0068] In some possible implementations, the multi-way valve 30 can be replaced by a valve assembly, as long as it can achieve the function of the multi-way valve 30, and there is no limitation here.

[0069] Furthermore, the battery pack 1000 of this disclosure can be used as a power battery for a vehicle. When the battery pack 1000 is used in a vehicle, the operation of the multi-way valve 30 can be controlled by the battery management system (BMS) to allow the multi-way valve 30 to switch between different operating modes. For example, when the battery management system detects thermal runaway triggering conditions (e.g., voltage drop, temperature rise) in a portion of the housing cavity 11, the battery management system (BMS) can control the multi-way valve 30 to switch operating modes, so that the heat exchange medium passes through the heat exchange flow path 213 in the thermally runaway housing cavity 11 to cool down the battery module 40 in the housing cavity 11 (e.g., the multi-way valve 30 can be put into a third operating mode).

[0070] Of course, the multi-way valve 30 can also be actively controlled through the vehicle's central control system to switch between different working modes; no restrictions are imposed here.

[0071] In some implementations, such as Figures 1 to 13 As shown, the battery housing 10 includes a first receiving cavity 111 and a second receiving cavity 112, and the heat exchange module 20 includes a first heat exchange section 211 and a second heat exchange section 212. The first receiving cavity 111 is provided with the first heat exchange section 211, and the second receiving cavity 112 is provided with the second heat exchange section 212. The first heat exchange section 211 includes a first heat exchange flow path 2131 and a second heat exchange flow path 2132, and the second heat exchange section 212 includes a third heat exchange flow path 2133 and a fourth heat exchange flow path 2134.

[0072] In the above embodiments, the first receiving cavity 111 and the second receiving cavity 112 can be formed in any suitable form. For example, as... Figure 1 As shown, the battery housing 10 includes a tray 10a with a cavity 10b and an intermediate beam 12 disposed in the cavity 10b. The intermediate beam 12 divides the cavity 10b into a first receiving cavity 111 and a second receiving cavity 112. The first receiving cavity 111 and the second receiving cavity 112 are symmetrically arranged about the intermediate beam 12, which is conducive to the uniform distribution of the weight of the battery pack 1000, thereby improving the balance of the battery pack 1000.

[0073] In addition, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the multi-way valve 30 can be located on the outer wall of the tray 10a without occupying the space of the first receiving cavity 111 and the second receiving cavity 112, so that more battery cells can be arranged in the first receiving cavity 111 and the second receiving cavity 112.

[0074] In some embodiments, the battery housing 10 also includes a top cover (not shown) that can be detachably fastened to the tray 10a to close the first receiving cavity 111 and the second receiving cavity 112.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first heat exchange flow path 2131 may be an outer heat exchange flow path 213c. The first heat exchange flow path 2131 extends close to the side wall region of the first receiving cavity 111 and can exchange heat with the battery cells located in the first receiving cavity 111 near the side wall region. The second heat exchange flow path 2132 may be an inner heat exchange flow path 213d. The second heat exchange flow path 2132 is arranged close to the center region of the first receiving cavity 111 and is located inside the first heat exchange flow path 2131. The second heat exchange flow path 2132 can exchange heat with the battery cells located in the first receiving cavity 111 near the center region. The first heat exchange flow path 2131 is arranged closer to the side wall region of the first receiving cavity 111 than the second heat exchange flow path 2132. The first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the second heat exchange flow path 2132 can jointly exchange heat with the battery module 40 in the first receiving cavity 111.

[0076] Furthermore, the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 can be classified as the outer heat exchange flow path 213c. The fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 extends near the sidewall region of the second receiving cavity 112, enabling heat exchange for the battery cells located near the sidewall region in the second receiving cavity 112. The third heat exchange flow path 2133 can be classified as the inner heat exchange flow path 213d. The third heat exchange flow path 2133 is arranged near the central region of the first receiving cavity 111 and is located inside the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134. The third heat exchange flow path 2133 can exchange heat for the battery cells located near the central region in the second receiving cavity 112. The fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 is arranged closer to the sidewall region of the first receiving cavity 111 than the third heat exchange flow path 2133. Both the third and fourth heat exchange flow paths 2133 and 2134 can jointly exchange heat for the battery module 40 in the second receiving cavity 112.

[0077] In some implementations, such as Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the heat exchange module 20 includes a heat exchange cold plate 200 disposed in a cavity 10b inside the battery housing 10. The heat exchange cold plate 200 forms a first heat exchange part 211 disposed in a first receiving cavity 111 and a second heat exchange part 212 disposed in a second receiving cavity 112. A first battery module 40 is disposed in the first receiving cavity 111 and a second battery module 40 is disposed in the second receiving cavity 112. The first heat exchange part 211 is located at the bottom of the first battery module 40 and can be used to exchange heat with the first battery module 40. The second heat exchange part 212 is located at the bottom of the second battery module 40 and can be used to exchange heat with the second battery module 40.

[0078] In another possible implementation, the heat exchange module 20 may also include a side cold plate or an end cold plate of a cavity 10b disposed inside the battery housing 10. The shape of the side cold plate or the end cold plate may be constructed as required and is not limited here.

[0079] In some implementations, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the heat exchange cold plate 200 has a first heat exchange flow path 2131 and a second heat exchange flow path 2132. The first heat exchange flow path 2131 includes at least two first branch flow paths 2131a, which can make the heat exchange medium dispersed in the at least two first branch flow paths 2131a, so that the heat exchange medium is more evenly distributed when flowing in the first heat exchange flow path 2131, matching the local heat exchange demand and avoiding the phenomenon of local overheating or underheating caused by uneven flow distribution.

[0080] In addition, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the second heat exchange flow path 2132 includes at least two second branch flow paths 2132a, which can disperse the heat exchange medium in the at least two second branch flow paths 2132a, making the heat exchange medium more evenly distributed when flowing in the second heat exchange flow path 2132, matching local heat exchange needs, and avoiding local overheating or underheating caused by uneven flow distribution.

[0081] In some implementations, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the heat exchange cold plate 200 has a third heat exchange flow path 2133 and a fourth heat exchange flow path 2134. The third heat exchange flow path 2133 includes at least two third branch flow paths 2133a, which can make the heat exchange medium dispersed in the at least two third branch flow paths 2133a, so that the heat exchange medium is more evenly distributed when flowing in the third heat exchange flow path 2133, matching the local heat exchange demand and avoiding the phenomenon of local overheating or underheating caused by uneven flow distribution.

[0082] In addition, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 includes at least two fourth branch flow paths 2134a, which can disperse the heat exchange medium in the at least two fourth branch flow paths 2134a, making the heat exchange medium more evenly distributed when flowing in the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134, matching local heat exchange needs, and avoiding local overheating or underheating caused by uneven flow distribution.

[0083] It should be noted that, in order to show the arrangement of the heat exchange flow path 213 on the heat exchange cold plate 200, Figure 3 The heat exchange cold plate 200 shown is only a part of the heat exchange cold plate 200. Figure 3 The image shows the base plate portion of the heat exchanger plate 200, which is engraved with the heat exchange flow path 213. The heat exchanger plate 200 also includes a fastener attached to... Figure 3 The cover plate of the bottom plate is used to form a complete heat exchange flow path 213 on the heat exchange cold plate 200. The cover plate can contact the battery module 40 for heat exchange of the battery module 40.

[0084] In some implementations, such as Figures 1 to 13As shown, the battery housing 10 includes a first receiving cavity 111 and a second receiving cavity 112. A first heat exchange section 211 is disposed in the first receiving cavity 111, and a second heat exchange section 212 is disposed in the second receiving cavity 112. The first heat exchange section 211 includes a first heat exchange flow path 2131 and a second heat exchange flow path 2132. The second heat exchange section 212 includes a third heat exchange flow path 2133 and a fourth heat exchange flow path 2134. Each heat exchange flow path 213 includes an inlet end 213a and an outlet end 213b. The multi-way valve 30 includes a main liquid inlet 31, a main liquid outlet 32, four first working flow ports 331, and four second working flow ports 332. The main liquid inlet 31 and the main liquid outlet 32... 2. It can be connected to an external heat exchange system (such as the air conditioning system of a vehicle). The inlet end 213a of the first heat exchange flow path 2131, the inlet end 213a of the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the inlet end 213a of the third heat exchange flow path 2133, and the inlet end 213a of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are respectively connected to the four first working ports 331 of the multi-way valve 30. The outlet end 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131, the outlet end 213b of the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the outlet end 213b of the third heat exchange flow path 2133, and the outlet end 213b of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are respectively connected to the four second working ports 332 of the multi-way valve 30. Furthermore, the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 can be considered as the outer heat exchange flow path 213c, and the second heat exchange flow path 2132 and the third heat exchange flow path 2133 can be considered as the inner heat exchange flow path 213d. In addition, the battery pack 1000 also includes multiple connectors 50. The main liquid inlet 31 and the main liquid outlet 32 ​​of the multi-way valve 30 can be connected to the external heat exchange system through the connectors 50 respectively. The inlet ends 213a of the first heat exchange flow path 2131, the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the third heat exchange flow path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are respectively connected to the first working outlet 331 of the multi-way valve 30 through the connectors 50. The outlet ends 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131, the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the third heat exchange flow path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are respectively connected to the second working outlet 332 of the multi-way valve 30 through the connectors 50.

[0085] The following is based on the above implementation method, in conjunction with the appendix. Figures 1 to 13 The eight operating modes of the multi-way valve 30 will be described again.

[0086] When the multi-way valve 30 is in the first working mode, such as Figure 6As shown, the inlet ends 213a of the first heat exchange flow path 2131, the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the third heat exchange flow path 2133, and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are respectively connected to the main inlet 31 of the multi-way valve 30 through their respective first working outlets 331, and the outlet ends 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131, the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the third heat exchange flow path 2133, and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are respectively connected to the multi-way valve 30 through their respective second working outlets 332. The main outlet 32 ​​allows the first heat exchange flow path 2131, the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the third heat exchange flow path 2133, and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 to be connected in parallel. The heat exchange medium of the heat exchange system can be directly introduced into the first heat exchange flow path 2131, the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the third heat exchange flow path 2133, and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 respectively through the four first working outlets 331 of the multi-way valve 30, which allows for a relatively large flow rate of the heat exchange medium into the heat exchange cold plate 200. As mentioned above, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the first working mode, it can be used in situations where the battery pack 1000 has a large heat exchange requirement.

[0087] When the multi-way valve 30 is in the second operating mode, such as Figure 7As shown, the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the second heat exchange flow path 2132 are connected in series through their respective first working ports 331 and second working ports 332. The inlet end 213a of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 is connected to the second working port 332 corresponding to the outlet end 213b of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 through the corresponding first working port 331. The outlet end 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 is connected to the main liquid outlet 32 ​​through the corresponding second working port 332. The inlet end 213a of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 is connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working port 331. The third heat exchange path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange path 2134 are connected in series via their respective first working inlets 331 and second working inlets 332. The outlet end 213b of the third heat exchange path 2133 is connected to the first working inlet 331 of the fourth heat exchange path 2134 via the corresponding second working inlet 332. The inlet end 213a of the third heat exchange path 2133 is connected to the main liquid inlet 31 via the corresponding first working inlet 331. The outlet end 213b of the fourth heat exchange path 2134 is connected to the main liquid outlet 32 ​​via the corresponding second working inlet 332, so that the first heat exchange path 2131 and the fourth heat exchange path 2134 are connected in series. The flow path 2132 is connected in series, and the third heat exchange flow path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are connected in series. Then, the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the second heat exchange flow path 2132 connected in series are connected in parallel with the third heat exchange flow path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 connected in series. The heat exchange medium enters through the main inlet 31 and is divided into two paths. One path of the heat exchange medium flows through the second heat exchange flow path 2132 and the first heat exchange flow path 2131 connected in series and then exits through the main outlet 32. The other path of the heat exchange medium flows through the third heat exchange flow path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 connected in series and then exits through the main outlet 32. This is used for heat exchange of the battery module 40 located in the housing cavity 11. As mentioned above, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the second working mode, it can be used when there is a large temperature difference between different areas in the same housing cavity 11.

[0088] When the multi-way valve 30 is in the third operating mode, such as Figure 8As shown, the inlet end 213a of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the inlet end 213a of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 are respectively connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working oil port. The outlet end 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 is connected to the first working flow port 331 corresponding to the inlet end 213a of the third heat exchange flow path 2133 through the corresponding second working flow port 332, so that the outlet end 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 is connected to the third heat exchange flow path 2133. The inlet end 213a of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 and the outlet end 213b of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 are connected to the first working port 331 corresponding to the inlet end 213a of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 through the corresponding second working port 332, so that the outlet end 213b of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 is connected to the inlet end 213a of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134. In addition, the outlet end 213b of the third heat exchange flow path 2133 is connected to the first working port 331 corresponding to the inlet end 213a of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 through the corresponding second working port 331. 32 is connected to the main liquid outlet 32. The outlet end 213b of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 is connected to the main liquid outlet 32 ​​through the corresponding second working flow path 332, so that the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the second heat exchange flow path 2132 are connected in parallel, and the third heat exchange flow path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are connected in parallel. Then, the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the third heat exchange flow path 2133 are connected in series, and the second heat exchange flow path 2132 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are connected in series. The heat exchange medium enters the multi-way valve 30 through the main inlet 31 and is then divided into two paths. One path passes through the first heat exchange path 2131 and the third heat exchange path 2133 connected in series before exiting through the main outlet 32. The other path passes through the second heat exchange path 2132 and the fourth heat exchange path 2134 connected in series before exiting through the main outlet 32. Both paths can exchange heat with the battery module 40 in the first and second accommodating cavities 111 and 112. As mentioned above, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the third operating mode, it can be used when there is a large temperature difference between the different accommodating cavities 11 of the battery pack 1000.

[0089] When the multi-way valve 30 is in the fourth operating mode, such as Figure 9As shown, the inlet end 213a of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 is connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the first working port 331. The outlet end 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 is connected to the first working port 331 corresponding to the inlet end 213a of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 through the second working port 332, so that the outlet end 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 is connected in series to the inlet end 213a of the second heat exchange flow path 2132. The outlet end 213b of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 is connected to the first working port 331 corresponding to the inlet end 213a of the third heat exchange flow path 2133 through the corresponding second working port 332, so that the outlet end 213b of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 is connected in series to the inlet end 213a of the third heat exchange flow path 2133. The outlet end 213b of the third heat exchange flow path 2133 is connected to the fourth heat exchange flow path 2133 through the corresponding second working port 332. The inlet end 213a of the heat flow path 2134 corresponds to the first working port 331, so that the outlet end 213b of the third heat exchange flow path 2133 is connected in series to the inlet end 213a of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134. The outlet end 213b of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 is connected to the main outlet port 32 through the corresponding second working port 332. With the above arrangement, the first heat exchange flow path 2131, the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the third heat exchange flow path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are connected in series. After the heat exchange medium enters the first heat exchange flow path 2131 through the main inlet port 31, it can flow through the second heat exchange flow path 2132, the third heat exchange flow path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 in series in sequence. Then the heat exchange medium is discharged from the main outlet port 32. The heat exchange medium can exchange heat with the battery module 40 in the first receiving cavity 111 and the second receiving cavity 112. As mentioned above, when the multi-way valve 30 is in the fourth working mode, it can be used for working conditions where the temperature difference between different areas of the same receiving cavity 11 is large, and the temperature difference between different receiving cavities 11 is also large.

[0090] When the multi-way valve 30 is in the fifth operating mode, it can select one of the heat exchange sections 21 of the first receiving chamber 111 and the second receiving chamber 112 to perform normal heat exchange, that is, independently control one of the first heat exchange section 211 and the second heat exchange section 212 to perform normal heat exchange, for example, as Figure 10As shown, the first heat exchange section 211 in the first receiving cavity 111 can be selected to perform normal heat exchange, while the second heat exchange section 212 in the second receiving cavity 112 can be selected not to perform heat exchange. This allows the inlet end 213a of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the inlet end 213a of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 to be connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through their respective first working flow ports 331, and the outlet end 213b of the second heat exchange path and the outlet end 213b of the second heat exchange path to be connected to the main liquid outlet through their respective second working flow ports 332. The liquid inlet 32 ​​allows the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the second heat exchange flow path 2132 in the first receiving cavity 111 to be connected in parallel via a multi-way valve 30. The heat exchange medium from the external heat exchange system enters the heat exchange cold plate 200 through the main liquid inlet 31 and is then divided into two paths. One path flows through the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and exits through the main liquid outlet 32, while the other path flows through the second heat exchange flow path 2132 and exits through the main liquid outlet 32. These two heat exchange mediums can exchange heat with the first battery module 41 in the first receiving cavity. Alternatively, in this mode, the second heat exchange section 212 in the second receiving cavity 112 can be selected to perform normal heat exchange, while the first heat exchange section 211 in the first receiving cavity 111 does not perform heat exchange. This allows the third heat exchange flow path 213 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 to be connected in parallel; no restriction is placed on this. When the multi-way valve 30 is in the fifth working mode, it can be used in the case where one of the first receiving chamber 111 and the second receiving chamber 112 of the battery pack 1000 fails, but the other can exchange heat normally.

[0091] When the multi-way valve 30 is in the sixth operating mode, the heat exchange section 21 of either the first receiving chamber 111 or the second receiving chamber 112 can be selected to perform normal heat exchange, that is, one of the first heat exchange section 211 and the second heat exchange section 212 can be independently controlled to perform normal heat exchange. Figure 11As shown, the first heat exchange section 211 in the first receiving cavity 111 can be selected to perform normal heat exchange, while the second heat exchange section 212 in the second receiving cavity 112 can be selected not to perform heat exchange. This allows the inlet end 213a of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 to be connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working outlet 331, and the second working outlet 332 corresponding to the outlet end 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 to be connected to the first working outlet 331 corresponding to the inlet end 213a of the second heat exchange flow path 2132. The outlet end 213b of the heat flow path 2132 is connected to the main outlet 32 ​​through the corresponding second working flow port 332, so that the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the second heat exchange flow path 2132 are connected in series. The heat exchange medium enters the first heat exchange flow path 2131 through the main inlet 31, then flows through the second heat exchange flow path 2132 connected in series with the first heat exchange flow path 2131, and then exits through the main outlet 32. The heat exchange medium can exchange heat with the first battery module 41 in the first receiving cavity 111. Of course, it is also possible to choose that the second heat exchange section 212 in the second receiving cavity 112 performs normal heat exchange, while the first heat exchange section 211 in the first receiving cavity 111 does not perform heat exchange, so that the third heat exchange flow path 2133 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are connected in series. There is no limitation here. When the multi-way valve 30 is in the sixth working mode, it can be used in the case where one of the first receiving chamber 111 and the second receiving chamber 112 of the battery pack 1000 fails, but the other can exchange heat normally.

[0092] When the multi-way valve 30 is in the seventh operating mode, such as Figure 12 As shown, the inlet end 213a of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the inlet end 213a of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are respectively connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working flow port 331, and the outlet end 213b of the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the outlet end 213b of the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 are respectively connected to the main liquid outlet 32 ​​through the corresponding second working flow port 332, so that the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134, which belong to the outer heat exchange flow path 213c, are connected to the main liquid outlet 32. The components are connected in parallel and connected to an external heat exchange system through a multi-way valve 30, which allows the first heat exchange flow path 2131 and the fourth heat exchange flow path 2134 to supply heat exchange medium for the battery cells near the side wall of the first receiving cavity 111 and the battery cells near the side wall of the second receiving cavity 112. This operating condition can be switched to when the temperature of the area near the side wall of the receiving cavity 11 of the battery pack 1000 is low in cold weather, so as to achieve heating and heat preservation while reducing energy consumption.

[0093] When the multi-way valve 30 is in the eighth working mode, such as Figure 13As shown, the inlet end 213a of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 and the inlet end 213a of the third heat exchange flow path 2133 are respectively connected to the main liquid inlet 31 through the corresponding first working flow port 331. The outlet end 213b of the second heat exchange flow path 2132 and the outlet end 213b of the third heat exchange flow path 2133 are respectively connected to the main liquid outlet 32 ​​through the corresponding second working flow port 332, so that the second heat exchange flow path 2132 and the third heat exchange flow path 2133, which belong to the inner heat exchange flow path 213d, are connected to the main liquid outlet 32. The 133 are connected in parallel and are respectively connected to the external heat exchange system through the multi-way valve 30, which enables the second heat exchange flow path 2132 and the third heat exchange flow path 2133 to supply heat exchange medium for heat exchange of the battery cells near the center area of ​​the first receiving cavity 111 and the battery cells near the center area of ​​the second receiving cavity 112. This can be used when the temperature of the battery cells near the center area of ​​the receiving cavity 11 of the battery pack 1000 is high, so as to cool down the battery pack 1000 and reduce energy consumption at the same time.

[0094] A second aspect of this disclosure provides an electrical device including the battery pack 1000 as described above. The electrical device may be a vehicle or any other device suitable for using the battery pack 1000, and this disclosure does not limit it in this regard.

[0095] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the specific details of the above embodiments. Within the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solutions of this disclosure, and these simple modifications all fall within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0096] It should also be noted that the various specific technical features described in the above specific embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, this disclosure will not describe the various possible combinations separately.

[0097] Furthermore, various different embodiments of this disclosure can be combined in any way, as long as they do not violate the spirit of this disclosure, they should also be regarded as the content disclosed in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A battery pack, characterized in that, include: The battery housing includes at least two receiving cavities, in which battery modules are disposed; A heat exchange module includes heat exchange sections corresponding to the receiving cavities, the heat exchange sections being used for heat exchange of the battery module, wherein the heat exchange sections include at least two independent heat exchange flow paths; and A multi-way valve is installed in the battery housing and includes a main inlet, a main outlet, and multiple working ports. The main inlet and the main outlet are used to communicate with an external heat exchange system. The multi-way valve is configured to allow at least a portion of the heat exchange flow path to be connected to the main inlet and the main outlet through the working ports for heat exchange of the battery modules in different accommodating cavities.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-way valve includes a first operating mode, in which all the heat exchange flow paths are connected in parallel through the multi-way valve when the multi-way valve is in the first operating mode; and / or The multi-way valve includes a second operating mode, in which the heat exchange flow paths in the same heat exchange section are connected in series through the multi-way valve and then connected in parallel to the heat exchange flow paths in another heat exchange section; and / or The multi-way valve includes a third operating mode, in which the heat exchange flow paths in the same heat exchange section are connected in parallel and then connected in series to the heat exchange flow paths in another heat exchange section; and / or The multi-way valve includes a fourth operating mode. When the multi-way valve is in the fourth operating mode, the heat exchange flow paths of all the heat exchange sections are connected in series through the multi-way valve.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-way valve includes a fifth operating mode, in which some of the heat exchange flow paths in the heat exchange section are connected in parallel through the multi-way valve; and / or The multi-way valve includes a sixth operating mode, in which some of the heat exchange flow paths in the heat exchange section are connected in series through the multi-way valve when the multi-way valve is in the sixth operating mode.

4. The battery pack according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Each of the heat exchange sections includes an outer heat exchange flow path extending near the sidewall region of the receiving cavity, and at least one inner heat exchange flow path arranged near the central region of the receiving cavity and located inside the outer heat exchange flow path.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, characterized in that, The multi-way valve includes a seventh operating mode. When the multi-way valve is in the seventh operating mode, at least a portion of the inlet ends of the outer heat exchange flow paths of the heat exchange section are connected to the main liquid inlet, and the outlet ends are connected to the main liquid outlet. Different outer heat exchange flow paths are connected in parallel through the multi-way valve; and / or The multi-way valve includes an eighth operating mode. When the multi-way valve is in the eighth operating mode, the inlet end of at least part of the inner heat exchange flow path of the heat exchange section is connected to the main liquid inlet, and the outlet end is connected to the main liquid outlet. Different inner heat exchange flow paths are connected in parallel through the multi-way valve.

6. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The battery housing includes a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity. The heat exchange module includes a first heat exchange section and a second heat exchange section. The first heat exchange section is disposed in the first receiving cavity, and the second heat exchange section is disposed in the second receiving cavity. The first heat exchange section includes a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path, and the second heat exchange section includes a third heat exchange flow path and a fourth heat exchange flow path.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, characterized in that, The battery housing includes a tray with a cavity and a central beam disposed in the cavity. The central beam divides the cavity into a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity, which are arranged symmetrically about the central beam.

8. The battery pack according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first heat exchange flow path extends near the sidewall region of the first receiving cavity, the second heat exchange flow path is arranged near the center region of the first receiving cavity, and the second heat exchange flow path is located inside the first heat exchange flow path; and / or The fourth heat exchange flow path extends close to the side wall region of the second receiving cavity, the third heat exchange flow path is arranged close to the center region of the first receiving cavity, and the third heat exchange flow path is located inside the fourth heat exchange flow path.

9. The battery pack according to claim 6, characterized in that, The heat exchange module includes a heat exchange cold plate disposed inside the battery box. The heat exchange cold plate forms a first heat exchange part disposed in the first receiving cavity and a second heat exchange part disposed in the second receiving cavity. A first battery module is disposed in the first receiving cavity, and the first heat exchange part is located at the bottom of the first battery module. A second battery module is disposed in the second receiving cavity, and the second heat exchange part is located at the bottom of the second battery module.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, characterized in that, The heat exchange cold plate forms a first heat exchange flow path and a second heat exchange flow path, the first heat exchange flow path including at least two first branch paths, and the second heat exchange flow path including at least two second branch paths; and / or The heat exchange cold plate forms the third heat exchange flow path and the fourth heat exchange flow path. The third heat exchange flow path includes at least two third branch flow paths, and the fourth heat exchange flow path includes at least two fourth branch flow paths.

11. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-way valve is located outside the receiving cavity.

12. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, Includes the battery pack as described in any one of claims 1-11.

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