Energy storage device, energy storage system and charging network

Abstract

The application provides an energy storage device, an energy storage system and a charging network. The energy storage device comprises a box body having a containing cavity; a battery cell contained in the containing cavity; a heat exchange assembly contained in the containing cavity and attached to at least one battery cell, the heat exchange assembly having a heat exchange flow channel, the heat exchange flow channel having a first refrigerant inlet and a first refrigerant outlet; and a thermal management assembly comprising a compressor, a condenser, a throttling element and a first gas-liquid separator, the first refrigerant outlet being in communication with a refrigerant inlet of the compressor, a refrigerant outlet of the compressor being in communication with a refrigerant inlet of the condenser, a refrigerant outlet of the condenser being in communication with a refrigerant inlet of the throttling element, a refrigerant outlet of the throttling element being in communication with a refrigerant inlet of the first gas-liquid separator, and the first gas-liquid separator having a first liquid refrigerant outlet in communication with the first refrigerant inlet. The energy storage device provided by the application is beneficial to improving the heat exchange efficiency of the refrigerant and the battery cell and reducing energy loss.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to energy storage technology, and more particularly to an energy storage device, energy storage system and charging network. Background Technology

[0002] Energy storage devices can be used in energy storage power stations, wind power generation systems, solar power generation systems, mobile power systems, or temporary power supply systems. Energy storage devices can store electrical energy as needed and output it when appropriate. For example, energy storage devices can store electrical energy during off-peak hours and provide power to relevant users or electrical equipment during peak hours. Alternatively, energy storage devices can be applied to electrical devices, where they are cyclically charged and discharged to provide power to the devices, facilitating the conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy.

[0003] In energy storage devices, heat exchange components are needed to exchange heat with individual battery cells to ensure that the battery cells operate at suitable temperatures. In the development of energy storage devices, in addition to improving the performance of the devices themselves, reducing energy loss during the heat exchange process with battery cells is also a problem that those skilled in the art are continuously working to improve. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides an energy storage device, an energy storage system, and a charging network, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cells, thereby reducing energy loss during the heat exchange process between the refrigerant and the battery cells.

[0005] In a first aspect, the energy storage device provided in this application includes a housing, at least one battery cell, a heat exchange assembly, and a thermal management assembly. The housing has a receiving cavity, in which the battery cell is housed. The heat exchange assembly is housed within the receiving cavity and is in contact with at least one battery cell. The heat exchange assembly has a heat exchange channel with a first refrigerant inlet and a first refrigerant outlet. The thermal management assembly includes a compressor, a condenser, a throttling element, and a first gas-liquid separator. The first refrigerant outlet is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor, the refrigerant outlet of the compressor is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the condenser, the refrigerant outlet of the condenser is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element, and the refrigerant outlet of the throttling element is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the first gas-liquid separator. The first gas-liquid separator has a first liquid refrigerant outlet, which is connected to the first refrigerant inlet.

[0006] The energy storage device provided in this application embodiment incorporates a first gas-liquid separator to separate the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant before it flows into the heat exchange channel. The separated low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant then flows into the heat exchange channel. This reduces the dryness of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel, allowing more liquid refrigerant to absorb heat through phase change during heat exchange with the battery cells, thus improving the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cells. Furthermore, the direct heat exchange between the refrigerant and the battery cells reduces intermediate heat transfer paths, simplifying the overall structure of the energy storage device and reducing energy loss during intermediate heat transfer processes, further minimizing energy loss during the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the battery cells.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first gas-liquid separator further has a first gaseous refrigerant outlet, which is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor.

[0008] In the above embodiment, the gaseous refrigerant separated by the first gas-liquid separator flows into the compressor to provide a certain gas replenishment function for the compressor, thereby improving the compressor's heating capacity and energy efficiency ratio. Furthermore, the gaseous refrigerant in the first gas-liquid separator can be discharged in a timely manner to further reduce the risk of gaseous refrigerant mixing into liquid refrigerant and flowing into the heat exchange channel of the heat exchange component, thereby further reducing the dryness of the liquid refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel and improving the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cells.

[0009] In some embodiments, the thermal management assembly further includes a receiver, with the refrigerant outlet of the condenser connected to the refrigerant inlet of the receiver, and the refrigerant outlet of the receiver connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element.

[0010] In the above embodiments, the liquid reservoir can buffer the refrigerant, which makes it easy to adjust the flow rate of the refrigerant participating in the circulation as needed, so as to adjust the cooling capacity of the battery cells and adapt to various complex operating conditions of the energy storage device, so that the battery cells can all operate within a suitable temperature range.

[0011] In some embodiments, the thermal management assembly further includes a second gas-liquid separator, wherein the first refrigerant outlet is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the second gas-liquid separator, and the second gas-liquid separator has a second gaseous refrigerant outlet, which is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor.

[0012] In the above embodiments, by setting a second gas-liquid separator, it is beneficial to increase the dryness of the gaseous refrigerant flowing into the compressor, reduce the risk of liquid refrigerant flowing into the compressor and causing liquid slugging that could damage the compressor, improve the compressor's heating effect on the refrigerant, and improve the cooling efficiency of the thermal management components on the refrigerant.

[0013] In some embodiments, the thermal management assembly further includes a liquid receiver, with the refrigerant outlet of the condenser connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver, and the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element. The second gas-liquid separator also has a second liquid refrigerant outlet, which is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver.

[0014] In the above embodiment, the liquid refrigerant separated by the second gas-liquid separator flows into and is stored in the liquid storage tank, which helps to increase the amount of refrigerant stored in the liquid storage tank. This allows more refrigerant to participate in the circulation loop in a timely manner when needed, thereby improving the adaptability of the thermal management components to different operating conditions of the energy storage device.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first liquid refrigerant outlet is positioned closer to the top of the first refrigerant inlet along the direction of gravity.

[0016] In the above embodiments, it is beneficial to improve the smoothness of the flow of low-temperature liquid refrigerant from the first gas-liquid separation device into the heat exchange channel, and to reduce the evaporation of refrigerant, thereby further improving the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cells.

[0017] In some embodiments, the refrigerant outlet of the throttling element is positioned closer to the top relative to the first refrigerant inlet along the direction of gravity.

[0018] In the above embodiments, the pressure difference generated by the height difference between the refrigerant outlet and the first refrigerant inlet of the throttling element is beneficial to improve the smoothness of the refrigerant flow to the heat exchange channel and increase the boiling point of the refrigerant in the throttling element, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant evaporation in the throttling element and increasing the flow rate of liquid refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel, so as to improve the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cell.

[0019] In some embodiments, the thermal management assembly further includes a liquid receiver, the refrigerant outlet of the condenser is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver, the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element, and the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver is positioned closer to the top relative to the first refrigerant inlet.

[0020] In the above embodiments, the height difference and pressure difference between the refrigerant outlet and the first refrigerant inlet of the liquid reservoir are used to improve the smoothness of the refrigerant flow to the heat exchange channel, increase the boiling point of the refrigerant in the liquid reservoir, reduce the evaporation of the refrigerant in the liquid reservoir, and thus increase the flow rate of liquid refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel, so as to improve the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cells.

[0021] In some embodiments, the heat exchange assembly has at least two first refrigerant inlets, including a first inlet and a second inlet, which are located at opposite ends of the heat exchange assembly along a first direction. The heat exchange channel includes a first channel, a second channel, and a confluence channel. The first channel connects the first inlet and the confluence channel, the second channel connects the second inlet and the confluence channel, and the confluence channel extends at least along a second direction and has a first refrigerant outlet. The first direction, the second direction, and the thickness direction of the heat exchange assembly intersect each other but are not coplanar.

[0022] In the above embodiment, a portion of the low-temperature refrigerant flows into the first channel through the first inlet, and another portion of the low-temperature refrigerant flows into the second channel through the second inlet. The first channel and the second channel are connected in parallel, so the temperature of the refrigerant in the first channel and the second channel is relatively consistent. This is beneficial to improving the uniformity of heat exchange between the battery cells and the refrigerant in different regions along the second direction, thereby improving the temperature consistency of the battery cells in different regions along the second direction, reducing the risk of excessively high battery cell temperatures in some regions, and improving the reliability of the energy storage device.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first flow channel includes a plurality of first sub-flow channels arranged along a second direction, each of the plurality of first sub-flow channels extending at least along a first direction. The heat exchange flow channel also includes a first branch flow channel extending along the second direction and having a first inlet, the first branch flow channel being connected to the plurality of first sub-flow channels.

[0024] In the above embodiments, it is beneficial to improve the heat exchange uniformity between battery cells and refrigerant in different regions along the first and second directions, thereby improving the temperature consistency of battery cells in different regions and improving the reliability of the energy storage device. In some embodiments, the second flow channel includes a plurality of second sub-flow channels arranged along a second direction, each of the plurality of second sub-flow channels extending at least along a first direction. The heat exchange flow channel also includes a second branch flow channel extending along the second direction and having a second inlet, the second branch flow channel communicating with the plurality of second sub-flow channels.

[0025] In the above embodiments, it is beneficial to improve the heat exchange uniformity between battery cells and refrigerant in different regions along the first and second directions, thereby improving the temperature consistency of battery cells in different regions and improving the reliability of the energy storage device.

[0026] In some embodiments, the heat exchange assembly includes a first plate and a second plate, which are welded together to form a plurality of weld stamp groups spaced apart along a second direction. Each weld stamp group includes a plurality of weld stamps arranged along a first direction, and any two adjacent weld stamp groups along the second direction have a first flow channel and / or a second flow channel between them.

[0027] In the above embodiments, the arrangement of the weld marks formed by welding the first plate and the second plate together, and the arrangement of the first flow channel and / or the second flow channel, and the arrangement of the weld marks to form the first flow channel and the second flow channel, are beneficial to simplifying the structure of the heat exchange component.

[0028] In some embodiments, the heat exchange assembly has at least two first inlets, which are located at both ends of the first branch channel along a second direction.

[0029] In the above embodiments, it is beneficial to improve the smoothness of the refrigerant flow in the first branch channel and to reduce the path of the refrigerant as it flows from the first inlet into the first sub-channel, thereby improving the temperature uniformity of the refrigerant flowing into different first sub-channels and further improving the uniformity of heat exchange between the refrigerant and the battery cells in different regions.

[0030] In some embodiments, the heat exchange assembly has at least two second inlets, which are located at both ends of the second diversion channel along a second direction.

[0031] In the above embodiments, it is beneficial to improve the smoothness of the refrigerant flow in the second branch channel and to reduce the path of the refrigerant as it flows from the second inlet into the second sub-channel, thereby improving the temperature uniformity of the refrigerant flowing into different second sub-channels and further improving the uniformity of heat exchange between the refrigerant and the battery cells in different regions.

[0032] In some embodiments, the energy storage device further includes a distributor having an inlet, multiple distribution channels and multiple outlets, a first liquid refrigerant outlet connected to the inlet, distribution channels connected to the inlet and having outlets, and multiple outlets connected to one of the first inlet and the second inlet respectively.

[0033] In the above embodiments, the diverter can divert the liquid refrigerant flowing out of the first gas-liquid separator so that the liquid refrigerant flows to the first inlet and the second inlet respectively, and it is beneficial to simplify the pipeline connecting the first liquid refrigerant outlet and the first refrigerant inlet.

[0034] In some embodiments, the heat exchange assembly includes a body and a heating element. The body has a heat exchange flow channel, and the heating element is disposed in the body and used to heat the battery cells.

[0035] In the above embodiments, by including a heating element in the heat exchange assembly, the battery cells can be heated as needed, and the heating power of the battery cells can be easily controlled by controlling the power of the heating element. Furthermore, the thermal management assembly no longer needs to supply high-temperature refrigerant to the heat exchange channel, eliminating the need for structures such as reversing valves and simplifying the structure of the thermal management assembly.

[0036] In some embodiments, the heating element includes multiple extensions and multiple bends, the multiple extensions being spaced apart from each other, the bends connecting the ends of two adjacent extensions, and the multiple extensions being connected in series through the bends.

[0037] In the above embodiments, by providing the heating element with an extension section and a bending section, the heating element can cover more areas of the heat exchange assembly and heat more battery cells when needed. This is beneficial to improving the heating efficiency of the heating element on the battery cells and improving the heating uniformity of the heating element on battery cells in different areas.

[0038] Secondly, the energy storage system provided in the embodiments of this application includes a power conversion device and an energy storage device provided in any of the above embodiments, wherein the power conversion device is used to electrically connect the power generation device and the energy storage device.

[0039] The energy storage system provided in this application has the same technical effect as the energy storage device provided in any of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0040] Thirdly, the charging network provided in the embodiments of this application includes charging piles and energy storage devices provided in any of the above embodiments, or includes charging piles and energy storage systems provided in the above embodiments, wherein the energy storage devices are used to provide electrical energy to the charging piles.

[0041] The charging network provided in this application has the same technical effect because it adopts the energy storage device or energy storage system provided in any embodiment of this application, and will not be described again here. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the charging network provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the energy storage system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the energy storage device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the energy storage device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the structure of the energy storage device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0043] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0044] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1000, Charging network; 2000, Energy storage system; 3000, Power generation device; 200. Energy storage devices; 300, charging piles; 400. Energy storage converter; 10. Box body; 10a. Receiving cavity; 20. Battery cell modules; 30. Battery cell; 40. Heat exchange assembly; 40a. Heat exchange flow channel; 40a1. First flow channel; 40a11. First sub-flow channel; 40a2. Second flow channel; 40a21. Second sub-flow channel; 40a3. Merging flow channel; 40a4. First branch flow channel; 40a5. Second branch flow channel; 40b. First refrigerant inlet; 40b1. First inlet; 40b2. Second inlet; 40c. First refrigerant outlet; 41. Body section; 41a. Solder stamp assembly; 41a1. Solder stamp; 42. Heating element; 421. Extension section; 422. Bending section; 50. Thermal management components; 51. Compressor; 52. Condenser; 53. Throttling element; 54. First gas-liquid separator; 54a. First liquid refrigerant outlet; 54b. First gaseous refrigerant outlet; 55. Receiver; 56. Second gas-liquid separator; 56a. Second gaseous refrigerant outlet; 56b. Second liquid refrigerant outlet; 60. Flow divider; 60a. Inlet; 60b. Outlet; X, the first direction; Y, the second direction. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The described embodiments should not be regarded as limitations on this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0046] 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 is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification and the foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0048] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0049] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0050] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "circumferential", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed, operated or used in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0051] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" 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. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0052] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the technical term "contact" should be interpreted broadly, and can be direct contact, contact through an intermediate medium layer, contact between two contacting parties with substantially no interaction force, or contact between two contacting parties with interaction force.

[0053] In the embodiments of this application, "parallel" includes not only the case of absolute parallelism, but also the case of approximate parallelism as commonly understood in engineering; similarly, "perpendicular" also includes not only the case of absolute perpendicularity, but also the case of approximate perpendicularity as commonly understood in engineering. Specifically, if the angle between two directions is 85°-90°, the two directions can be considered perpendicular; if the angle between two directions is 0°-5°, the two directions can be considered parallel.

[0054] In this embodiment of the application, the battery cell can be a secondary battery, which refers to a battery cell that can be recharged to activate the active materials and continue to be used after the battery cell has been discharged.

[0055] The battery cell can be a lithium-ion battery, sodium-ion battery, sodium-lithium-ion battery, lithium metal battery, sodium metal battery, lithium-sulfur battery, magnesium-ion battery, nickel-metal hydride battery, nickel-cadmium battery, lead-acid battery, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to this.

[0056] As an example, the battery cell can be a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, a pouch battery cell, or a battery cell of other shapes. Prismatic battery cells include prismatic battery cells, blade-shaped battery cells, and multi-prismatic batteries, such as hexagonal prismatic batteries. There are no particular limitations in the embodiments of this application.

[0057] A single battery cell typically includes an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator, with the separator positioned between the positive and negative electrodes. During the charging and discharging process of a single battery cell, active ions (such as lithium ions) repeatedly insert and extract between the positive and negative electrodes. The separator, positioned between the positive and negative electrodes, prevents short circuits while allowing active ions to pass through.

[0058] The electrode assembly can be a wound structure, a stacked structure, or a hybrid structure of wound and stacked.

[0059] In some implementations, the electrode assembly is a wound structure. The positive and negative electrode sheets are wound into a wound structure.

[0060] In some implementations, the electrode assembly is a stacked structure.

[0061] As an example, multiple positive and negative electrodes can be set, and multiple positive and multiple negative electrodes can be stacked alternately.

[0062] As an example, multiple positive electrode plates can be provided, and negative electrode plates can be folded to form multiple stacked folded segments, with a positive electrode plate sandwiched between adjacent folded segments.

[0063] As an example, both the positive and negative electrode plates are folded to form multiple stacked folded segments.

[0064] As an example, multiple separators can be provided, each positioned between any adjacent positive or negative electrode plates.

[0065] As an example, the separators can be continuously arranged, either by folding or rolling between any adjacent positive or negative electrode plates.

[0066] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly can be cylindrical, flat, or polygonal, etc.

[0067] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly is provided with tabs that allow current to be drawn from the electrode assembly. The tabs include a positive tab and a negative tab.

[0068] In some embodiments, at least one electrode terminal is provided on the housing, and the electrode terminal is electrically connected to the tab. The electrode terminal can be directly connected to the tab, or it can be indirectly connected to the tab through a current collector. The electrode terminal can be provided on the end cap or on the housing.

[0069] In some embodiments, the battery cell may include a casing. The casing may be a steel casing, an aluminum casing, a plastic casing (such as a polypropylene casing), a composite metal casing (such as a copper-aluminum composite casing), or an aluminum-plastic film, etc. In some embodiments, the casing may be a sealed structure or a non-sealed structure. As an example, when the casing is a non-sealed structure, the casing serves to protect the electrode assembly, and a sealing bag is included between the casing and the electrode assembly to encapsulate the electrode assembly and electrolyte. Specifically, the sealing bag may be a bag-shaped insulating component or an aluminum-plastic film. When the casing is a sealed structure, it is used to encapsulate components such as the electrode assembly and electrolyte.

[0070] In some embodiments, a pressure relief mechanism is provided on the casing of the battery cell. The pressure relief mechanism is used to release the internal gas of the battery cell.

[0071] As an example, the internal pressure or temperature of a battery cell is actuated to release the internal pressure or temperature when it reaches a predetermined threshold. When the internal pressure or temperature of a battery cell reaches the predetermined threshold, the pressure relief mechanism is activated or a weak structure in the pressure relief mechanism is destroyed, thereby forming an opening or channel for the internal pressure or temperature to be released. The threshold design varies depending on the design requirements. The threshold may depend on the materials of one or more of the positive electrode, negative electrode, electrolyte, and separator in the battery cell.

[0072] As an example, the pressure relief mechanism can be integrally formed with the housing.

[0073] As an example, the pressure relief mechanism can also be separately installed and connected to the outer casing.

[0074] The energy storage device mentioned in the embodiments of this application may include one or more battery cell assemblies for providing voltage and capacity. A battery cell assembly may include multiple battery cells, which are connected in series, parallel, or mixed connections via busbars.

[0075] In some embodiments, a battery cell assembly is typically formed by arranging multiple battery cells.

[0076] As an example, the battery cell assembly can be a battery module, which is formed by arranging and fixing multiple battery cells into an independent module. As an example, the battery module can be formed by bundling multiple battery cells together with cable ties.

[0077] In some embodiments, the energy storage device may include a housing and one or more battery cell assemblies, the battery cell assemblies being housed within the housing.

[0078] As an example, the battery cell assembly can be a battery module, and the battery cell assembly can be housed in the housing by fixing the battery module in the housing.

[0079] As an example, the battery cell assembly can also be housed in the housing assembly by directly fixing multiple battery cells to the housing.

[0080] As an example, the enclosure may include a first enclosure and a second enclosure. The first enclosure and the second enclosure are fastened together to form a closed space inside the enclosure to house the individual battery cells. Here, "closed" refers to covering or shutting down; it can be sealed or not sealed. The first enclosure may be a top cover or a bottom plate.

[0081] As an example, the enclosure may include a top cover, a frame, and a bottom plate. The top cover and the bottom plate are respectively connected to the frame, so that the interior of the enclosure forms a closed space to accommodate the individual battery cells.

[0082] During operation, energy storage devices require individual battery cells to be maintained within a suitable temperature range. Related technologies employ thermal management components to manage the thermal performance of these cells. Specifically, as the heat exchange medium flows through the heat exchange component, it exchanges heat with the battery cells. Taking cooling a battery cell as an example, the low-temperature heat exchange medium absorbs heat from the battery cell and flows out of the heat exchange channel. Outside the heat exchange channel, the medium exchanges heat with related structures. After cooling to a low-temperature state, the medium flows back into the heat exchange channel and exchanges heat with the battery cell again. In this way, the low-temperature heat exchange medium circulates through the heat exchange component to continuously cool the battery cells.

[0083] However, in related technologies, the heat exchange efficiency between the heat exchange medium and the battery cells is low during the heat exchange channel process, and the battery cells cannot be cooled in time, which affects the reliability of the energy storage device. In addition, the external related structures consume a lot of energy during the cooling process of the heat exchange medium, which makes the energy storage device consume more energy during operation.

[0084] In view of this, the energy storage device provided in this application embodiment includes a housing, at least one battery cell, a heat exchange assembly, and a thermal management assembly. The housing has a receiving cavity, in which the battery cell is housed. The heat exchange assembly is housed within the receiving cavity and is in contact with at least one battery cell. The heat exchange assembly has a heat exchange channel with a first refrigerant inlet and a first refrigerant outlet. The thermal management assembly includes a compressor, a condenser, a throttling element, and a first gas-liquid separator. The first refrigerant outlet is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor, the refrigerant outlet of the compressor is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the condenser, the refrigerant outlet of the condenser is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element, and the refrigerant outlet of the throttling element is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the first gas-liquid separator. The first gas-liquid separator has a first liquid refrigerant outlet, which is connected to the first refrigerant inlet.

[0085] The energy storage device provided in this application incorporates a first gas-liquid separator to separate the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant before it flows into the heat exchange channel, allowing the separated low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant to flow into the channel. This reduces the dryness of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel, enabling more liquid refrigerant to absorb heat through phase change during heat exchange with the battery cells, thus improving the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cells. Furthermore, the direct heat exchange between the refrigerant and the battery cells reduces intermediate heat transfer paths, simplifying the overall structure of the energy storage device and reducing energy loss during intermediate heat transfer processes, further minimizing energy loss during the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the battery cells.

[0086] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to energy storage devices, energy storage systems including energy storage devices, and charging networks including energy storage devices or energy storage systems.

[0087] Energy storage devices can be energy storage cabinets or energy storage containers, etc. Energy storage systems can be wind power generation systems, hydropower generation systems, solar power generation systems, energy storage power stations, or temporary power supply systems, etc.

[0088] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a charging network 1000 provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an energy storage device 200 provided in some embodiments of this application. Embodiments of this application provide a charging network 1000, which includes a charging pile 300 for charging electrical equipment. The charging network 1000 may also include an energy storage device 200, which is electrically connected to the charging pile 300 and provides power to the charging pile 300.

[0089] It should be noted that the charging pile 300 and the battery cells in the energy storage device 200 are electrically connected via cables, and the battery cells can supply their stored electrical energy to the charging pile 300. The charging pile 300 has a connector that can be connected to electrical equipment, thereby replenishing the equipment's power. The application of the energy storage device 200 in this charging network 1000 can effectively improve the safety of the charging network 1000 and also help to enhance the flexibility of the charging network 1000 during deployment.

[0090] In a charging network 1000, there can be one charging pile 300, and the energy storage device 200 provides power to the one charging pile 300; there can also be multiple charging piles 300, and the energy storage device 200 provides power to multiple charging piles 300.

[0091] As an example, such as Figure 1 As shown, the charging network 1000 includes an energy storage device 200 and two charging piles 300, with the energy storage device 200 providing power to the two charging piles 300.

[0092] The energy storage device 200 may include a battery cell assembly 20, which is electrically connected to the charging pile 300 so that the battery cell assembly 20 can provide power to the charging pile 300.

[0093] Please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an energy storage system 2000 provided in some embodiments of this application. Embodiments of this application provide an energy storage system 2000. The energy storage system 2000 includes an energy storage converter 400, which is electrically connected to a generator 3000 to convert the electrical power provided by the generator 3000. The energy storage system 2000 may also include an energy storage device 200, which is electrically connected to the energy storage converter 400. The energy storage converter 400 converts the electrical energy provided by the generator 3000 and stores it in the energy storage device 200.

[0094] A power conversion device is used to connect the power generation device 3000 and the energy storage device 200. The power generation device 3000 generates electrical energy and stores it in the energy storage device 200 via the power conversion device. The use of the energy storage device 200 in the energy storage system 2000 effectively improves its operational safety. In specific implementations, the power generation equipment can be solar panels, hydroelectric power generation equipment, thermal power generation equipment, etc. This application does not limit the specific type of power generation equipment.

[0095] As an example, such as Figure 2 As shown, the energy storage system 2000 includes an energy storage device 200 and an energy storage converter 400. The two power generation devices 3000 respectively transmit the generated electrical energy to the energy storage converter 400, and the energy storage converter 400 introduces the electrical energy into the energy storage device 200 for storage.

[0096] Please refer to Figure 3 The energy storage device 200 includes a housing 10, and a battery cell assembly 20 is disposed inside the housing 10.

[0097] As an example, the energy storage device 200 can be an energy storage container, an energy storage cabinet, etc.

[0098] As an example, energy storage device 200 can be used in energy storage power stations, wind power generation systems, solar power generation systems, mobile power systems, or temporary power supply systems. Energy storage power stations can store electrical energy during off-peak hours and provide power to relevant users or electrical equipment during peak hours. Wind power generation systems collect wind energy from wind turbines, convert it into electrical energy, and store it in energy storage device 200. Solar power generation systems can convert solar energy into electrical energy, store it in energy storage device 200, and supply it to users as needed. Mobile power systems can supply power to relevant electrical equipment in areas where the mains power supply cannot reach, such as remote mountainous areas and remote wilderness areas. Temporary power supply systems can provide power to users when there is insufficient power supply.

[0099] Firstly, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the energy storage device 200 provided in this application embodiment includes a housing 10, at least one battery cell 30, a heat exchange assembly 40, and a thermal management assembly 50. The housing 10 has a receiving cavity 10a, in which the battery cell 30 is received. The heat exchange assembly 40 is received in the receiving cavity 10a and is attached to at least one battery cell 30. The heat exchange assembly 40 has a heat exchange channel 40a, which has a first refrigerant inlet 40b and a first refrigerant outlet 40c. The thermal management assembly 50 includes a compressor 51, a condenser 52, a throttling element 53, and a first gas-liquid separator 54. A first refrigerant outlet 40c is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor 51. The refrigerant outlet of the compressor 51 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the condenser 52. The refrigerant outlet of the condenser 52 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element 53. The refrigerant outlet of the throttling element 53 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the first gas-liquid separator 54. The first gas-liquid separator 54 has a first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a, which is connected to the first refrigerant inlet 40b.

[0100] Both the battery cell 30 and the heat exchange assembly 40 are housed within the housing cavity 10a of the housing 10. The thermal management assembly 50 may be entirely located within the housing cavity 10a, or it may be entirely located outside the housing 10 and connected to the heat exchange channel 40a of the thermal management assembly 50 via relevant pipelines. Alternatively, a portion of the thermal management assembly 50 may be located within the housing cavity 10a of the housing 10, while another portion may be located outside the housing cavity 10a of the housing 10. The specific configuration can be selected based on actual needs.

[0101] The energy storage device 200 may include one, two, three or more heat exchange components 40. The heat exchange components 40 are attached to the battery cells 30. Optionally, the heat exchange components 40 may be located below the battery cells 30 along the direction of gravity. In this way, the heat exchange components 40 can not only provide heat exchange for the battery cells 30, but also provide support for the battery cells 30. Alternatively, the heat exchange components 40 may be located to the side of the battery cells 30. Of course, some heat exchange components 40 may be located below the battery cells 30 along the direction of gravity, while other battery cells 30 may be located to the side of the battery cells 30. The selection can be made according to actual needs.

[0102] The heat exchange component 40 may have one, two, or more heat exchange channels 40a, and different heat exchange channels 40a may be interconnected or connected in parallel. The heat exchange channels 40a may be distributed in various regions inside the heat exchange component 40 and are evenly distributed inside the heat exchange component 40 to achieve uniform heat exchange with the battery cells 30 in different regions.

[0103] Optionally, the heat exchange assembly 40 may have one, two, three, four or more first refrigerant inlets 40b and one, two, three, four or more first refrigerant outlets 40c. Refrigerant flowing in through different first refrigerant inlets 40b may flow into the same or different heat exchange channels 40a respectively.

[0104] The thermal management component 50 is used to heat or cool the refrigerant. For example, when the energy storage device 200 is operating in a normal temperature or high temperature environment, it is necessary to cool the battery cell 30. At this time, the thermal management component 50 can be controlled to circulate and cool the refrigerant so that the low temperature refrigerant acts as a heat exchange medium and cools the battery cell 30 during the process of flowing through the heat exchange channel 40a.

[0105] Alternatively, when the energy storage device 200 is operating in an extremely cold environment and has just been started, the thermal management component 50 can be set to circulate and heat the refrigerant so that the high-temperature refrigerant cools the battery cell 30 as it flows through the heat exchange channel 40a.

[0106] It is understood that the thermal management component 50 can control the supply of high-temperature or low-temperature refrigerant to the heat exchange component 40 by controlling the different directions of refrigerant circulation in the heat exchange component 40. For example, when heat dissipation of the battery cell 30 is required, the refrigerant flow is controlled so that it flows from the condenser 52 into the first gas-liquid separator 54. After gas-liquid separation in the first gas-liquid separator 54, the low-temperature liquid refrigerant flows into the heat exchange channel 40a via the first refrigerant inlet 40b, thereby exchanging heat with the battery cell 30 and cooling the battery cell 30.

[0107] When it is necessary to heat the battery cell 30, the high-temperature refrigerant compressed by the compressor 51 is controlled to flow into the heat exchange channel 40a through the first refrigerant outlet 40c, and exchange heat with the battery cell 30 in the heat exchange channel 40a to achieve the function of heating the battery cell 30.

[0108] Therefore, in the energy storage device 200 provided in this application embodiment, by switching the flow direction of the refrigerant in the thermal management component 50, the functions of providing high-temperature refrigerant and low-temperature refrigerant to the heat exchange channel 40a can be realized respectively, that is, realizing two operating conditions of cooling and heating the battery cell 30, and the flow direction of the refrigerant in the heat exchange channel 40a is opposite in the two operating conditions. In the operating condition of cooling the battery, the low-temperature refrigerant flows into the heat exchange channel 40a through the first refrigerant inlet 40b and flows out through the first refrigerant outlet 40c. In the operating condition of heating the battery cell 30, the high-temperature refrigerant flows into the heat exchange channel 40a through the first refrigerant outlet 40c and flows out through the first refrigerant inlet 40b.

[0109] The following example illustrates the circulation path of the refrigerant within the thermal management component 50 and the heat exchange component 40, using the thermal management component 50 cooling the battery cell 30 as an example.

[0110] It should be noted that the "connection" in the embodiments of this application can be a direct connection through pipelines, or an indirect connection through related heat exchangers and other components, which can be set according to actual needs.

[0111] When cooling the battery cell 30, the refrigerant circulates sequentially through the heat exchange assembly 40, compressor 51, throttling element 53, and first gas-liquid separator 54. Specifically, low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant flows into the heat exchange channel 40a through the first refrigerant inlet 40b and exchanges heat with the battery cell 30 in the heat exchange channel 40a. The temperature of the battery cell 30 decreases, the low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant absorbs heat and is converted into low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant. Then, the low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows out of the heat exchange channel 40a through the first refrigerant outlet 40c and flows into the compressor 51. The low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant further absorbs heat in the compressor 51 and is converted into high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor. Then, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor flows into the condenser 52 and releases heat in the condenser 52. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapor is converted into medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. Then, the medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant flows into the throttling element 53, where it is throttled, causing a sharp drop in pressure. The refrigerant is then converted into a low-temperature, low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, which flows into the first gas-liquid separator 54. In the first gas-liquid separator 54, the gaseous and liquid refrigerants are separated. The separated low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant then flows back into the heat exchange channel 40a through the first refrigerant inlet 40b, further cooling the battery cell 30. This cycle continues, with the thermal management component 50 continuously supplying the heat exchange component 40 with low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant.

[0112] The throttling element 53 can be an expansion valve or similar component to cool and depressurize the medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The first gas-liquid separator 54 can separate the gaseous and liquid refrigerant. Specifically, after the gaseous and liquid refrigerant flows into the first gas-liquid separator 54, the gaseous refrigerant floats upward relative to the liquid refrigerant along the direction of gravity, while the liquid refrigerant flows downward naturally under the action of gravity. The first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a can be located near the bottom of the first gas-liquid separator 54 along the direction of gravity, so that the liquid refrigerant stored at the bottom of the first gas-liquid separator 54 flows into the heat exchange channel 40a only through the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a under the action of gravity.

[0113] The gaseous refrigerant separated in the first gas-liquid separator 54 can be stored in the first gas-liquid separator 54. At least a portion of the gaseous refrigerant can be condensed into liquid refrigerant in the first gas-liquid separator 54, or the gaseous refrigerant separated in the first gas-liquid separator 54 can be guided into the compressor 51 and other structures through relevant pipelines. It is understood that by setting up the first gas-liquid separator 54 to separate the gaseous refrigerant from the coexisting gas and liquid phases of the refrigerant, it is beneficial to increase the dryness of the liquid refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange component 40. This allows more refrigerant to absorb heat from the battery cell 30 through phase change during the heat exchange process with the battery cell 30, which is beneficial to improving the cooling efficiency of the refrigerant on the battery cell 30. This enables the battery cell 30 to be cooled down in a timely manner, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the energy storage device 200 and saving energy consumption.

[0114] To achieve the heating of the battery cell 30, the thermal management component 50 can also include a reversing valve to change the circulation direction of the refrigerant, so that the high-temperature refrigerant vapor compressed by the compressor 51 enters the heat exchange channel 40a and exchanges heat with the battery cell 30 in the heat exchange channel 40a. The battery cell 30 absorbs the heat, while the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant vapor releases heat and is converted into liquid refrigerant.

[0115] Furthermore, by having the refrigerant flow directly into the heat exchange component 40 and exchange heat within it, the heat exchange component 40 is used as an evaporator in the refrigeration system to heat the low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant and convert it into low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vapor. This simplifies the structure of the thermal management component 50 and eliminates the need for heat exchange with the refrigerant through an intermediate heat exchange medium before flowing into the heat exchange channel 40a to exchange heat with the battery cells 30. Instead, the refrigerant directly exchanges heat with the battery cells 30, which further improves heat exchange efficiency and reduces energy consumption.

[0116] Therefore, the energy storage device 200 provided in this application embodiment, by setting a first gas-liquid separator 54, separates the gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant before it flows into the heat exchange channel 40a, and then allows the separated low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant to flow into the heat exchange channel 40a. This helps to reduce the dryness of the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel 40a, so that during the heat exchange process between the refrigerant and the battery cell 30 in the heat exchange channel 40a, more liquid refrigerant absorbs heat through phase change, which helps to improve the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cell 30. Furthermore, adopting the method of direct heat exchange between the refrigerant and the battery cell 30 helps to reduce the intermediate heat transfer path, thereby simplifying the overall structure of the energy storage device 200 and reducing energy loss during the intermediate heat transfer process, further reducing energy loss during the heat exchange process between the refrigerant and the battery cell 30.

[0117] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the first gas-liquid separator 54 also has a first gaseous refrigerant outlet 54b, which is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor 51.

[0118] The first gaseous refrigerant outlet 54b can be located above the first gas-liquid separator 54 along the direction of gravity. For example, the first gaseous refrigerant outlet 54b can be located above the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a along the direction of gravity, so that the liquid refrigerant in the first gas-liquid separator 54 flows into the heat exchange channel 40a through the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a under the action of gravity, while the gaseous refrigerant flows into the compressor 51 through the first gaseous refrigerant outlet 54b under the action of buoyancy.

[0119] In this way, the gaseous refrigerant separated by the first gas-liquid separator 54 flows into the compressor 51 to provide a certain gas replenishment function for the compressor 51, thereby improving the heating capacity and energy efficiency ratio of the compressor 51. Moreover, the gaseous refrigerant in the first gas-liquid separator 54 can be discharged in time to further reduce the risk of gaseous refrigerant mixing into liquid refrigerant and flowing into the heat exchange channel 40a of the heat exchange component 40, thereby further reducing the dryness of the liquid refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel 40a and improving the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cell 30.

[0120] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the thermal management assembly 50 also includes a liquid receiver 55, the refrigerant outlet of the condenser 52 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver 55, and the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver 55 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element 53.

[0121] It is understandable that the cooling capacity required by the battery cells 30 varies depending on factors such as the working environment of the energy storage device 200, and thus the amount of refrigerant that needs to participate in the cycle also varies.

[0122] By setting up the liquid reservoir 55, the liquid reservoir 55 can buffer the refrigerant. When a higher amount of refrigerant is needed, more refrigerant can be set to participate in the circulation so that there is enough low-temperature liquid refrigerant to exchange heat with the battery cell 30. When a lower amount of refrigerant is needed, less refrigerant can be set to participate in the circulation, while the other part of the refrigerant is stored in the liquid reservoir 55.

[0123] Therefore, the liquid receiver 55 can buffer the refrigerant, making it easy to adjust the flow rate of the refrigerant participating in the circulation as needed, so as to adjust the cooling capacity of the battery cell 30, adapt to various complex operating conditions of the energy storage device 200, and enable the battery cell 30 to operate within a suitable temperature range.

[0124] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the thermal management assembly 50 also includes a second gas-liquid separator 56, wherein the first refrigerant outlet 40c is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the second gas-liquid separator 56, and the second gas-liquid separator 56 has a second gaseous refrigerant outlet 56a, which is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor 51.

[0125] The second gaseous refrigerant outlet 56a can be located above the second gas-liquid separator 56 along the direction of gravity, so that the gaseous refrigerant that floats up in the second gas-liquid separator 56 flows into the compressor 51 through the second gaseous refrigerant outlet 56a.

[0126] After the low-temperature, low-pressure liquid refrigerant flows through the heat exchange channel 40a, most of the refrigerant absorbs heat and is converted into low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vapor. However, a small amount of liquid refrigerant is not converted into refrigerant vapor and remains in a liquid state. Therefore, there may be liquid refrigerant in the refrigerant flowing out of the first refrigerant outlet 40c.

[0127] By setting up a second gas-liquid separator 56, the gas and liquid refrigerant flowing out of the heat exchange channel 40a flows into the second gas-liquid separator 56. The liquid refrigerant flows downward under the action of gravity, while the liquid refrigerant floats upward, so as to separate the gaseous refrigerant and the liquid refrigerant. The separated gaseous refrigerant can flow directly into the compressor 51, while the separated liquid refrigerant can be stored in the second gas-liquid separator 56, or the separated liquid refrigerant can also flow into a device such as a liquid receiver 55 through a pipeline.

[0128] In this way, by setting up a second gas-liquid separator 56, it is beneficial to increase the dryness of the gaseous refrigerant flowing into the compressor 51, reduce the risk of liquid refrigerant flowing into the compressor 51 and causing liquid slugging that could damage the compressor 51, improve the heating effect of the compressor 51 on the refrigerant, and improve the cooling efficiency of the thermal management component 50 on the refrigerant.

[0129] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the thermal management assembly 50 also includes a liquid receiver 55, with the refrigerant outlet of the condenser 52 connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver 55, and the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver 55 connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element 53. The second gas-liquid separator 56 also has a second liquid refrigerant outlet 56b, which is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver 55.

[0130] The second liquid refrigerant outlet 56b can be located near the bottom of the second gas-liquid separator 56. For example, the second liquid refrigerant outlet 56b is located below the second gas refrigerant outlet 56a in the direction of gravity, so that the separated liquid refrigerant flows into the liquid reservoir 55 through the second refrigerant outlet under the action of gravity.

[0131] In this way, the liquid refrigerant separated by the second gas-liquid separator 56 flows into and is stored in the liquid storage tank 55, which helps to increase the amount of refrigerant stored in the liquid storage tank 55. This allows more refrigerant to participate in the circulation loop in a timely manner when needed, thereby improving the adaptability of the thermal management component 50 to different operating conditions of the energy storage device 200.

[0132] In some embodiments, along the direction of gravity, the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a is positioned closer to the top relative to the first refrigerant inlet 40b.

[0133] Optionally, the height of the first gas-liquid separator 54 can be set higher than the height of the heat exchange assembly 40, that is, the horizontal plane where the bottom of the first gas-liquid separator 54 is located is higher than the horizontal plane where the top of the heat exchange assembly 40 is located.

[0134] Thus, along the direction of gravity, the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a is located above the first refrigerant outlet. Optionally, the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a can be located directly above the first refrigerant inlet 40b along the direction of gravity, or the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a can be located obliquely above the first refrigerant inlet 40b along the direction of gravity. In other words, the horizontal plane where the bottom of the first liquid outlet is located is above the horizontal plane where the top surface of the first refrigerant inlet 40b is located.

[0135] In this way, the height difference between the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a and the first refrigerant inlet 40b creates a pressure difference, and the pressure at the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a is greater than the pressure at the first refrigerant inlet 40b. Under the action of the pressure difference between the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a and the first refrigerant inlet 40b, the liquid refrigerant in the first gas-liquid separator 54 can flow more smoothly into the heat exchange channel 40a.

[0136] Furthermore, since the pressure in the first gas-liquid separator 54 is greater than the pressure in the heat exchange channel 40a, the boiling point of the refrigerant in the first gas-liquid separator 54 is higher than that in the heat exchange channel 40a. This helps to reduce the amount of liquid refrigerant evaporating in the first gas-liquid separator 54, thereby increasing the amount of liquid refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel 40a, which further helps to improve the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cell 30.

[0137] Therefore, by setting the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a to be positioned closer to the top along the direction of gravity relative to the first refrigerant inlet 40b, it is beneficial to improve the smoothness of the flow of low-temperature liquid refrigerant from the first gas-liquid separation device into the heat exchange channel 40a, and to reduce the evaporation of the refrigerant, thereby further improving the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cell 30.

[0138] In some embodiments, along the direction of gravity, the refrigerant outlet of the throttling element 53 is positioned close to the top relative to the first refrigerant inlet 40b.

[0139] Optionally, the throttling element 53 can be positioned relatively close to the top of the heat exchange assembly 40. The throttling element 53 can be located directly above or diagonally above the heat exchange assembly 40. In other words, the horizontal plane at the bottom of the throttling element 53 is higher than the horizontal plane at the top of the heat exchange assembly 40.

[0140] In this way, the pressure difference generated by the height difference between the refrigerant outlet of the throttling element 53 and the first refrigerant inlet 40b is beneficial to improve the smoothness of the refrigerant flow to the heat exchange channel 40a and increase the boiling point of the refrigerant in the throttling element 53, thereby reducing the amount of refrigerant evaporation in the throttling element 53 and increasing the flow rate of liquid refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel 40a, so as to improve the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cell 30.

[0141] In some embodiments, the thermal management assembly 50 further includes a receiver 55, the refrigerant outlet of the condenser 52 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the receiver 55, the refrigerant outlet of the receiver 55 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element 53, and the refrigerant outlet of the receiver 55 is disposed near the top relative to the first refrigerant inlet 40b.

[0142] The liquid reservoir 55 can be positioned relatively close to the top of the heat exchange assembly 40. The liquid reservoir 55 can be located directly above or diagonally above the heat exchange assembly 40. In other words, the horizontal plane of the bottom of the liquid reservoir 55 is higher than the horizontal plane of the top of the heat exchange assembly 40.

[0143] In this way, the height difference and pressure difference between the refrigerant outlet of the liquid reservoir 55 and the first refrigerant inlet 40b can be used to improve the smoothness of the refrigerant flow to the heat exchange channel 40a, increase the boiling point of the refrigerant in the liquid reservoir 55, reduce the evaporation of the refrigerant in the liquid reservoir 55, and thus increase the flow rate of liquid refrigerant flowing into the heat exchange channel 40a, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the refrigerant and the battery cell 30.

[0144] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the heat exchange assembly 40 has at least two first refrigerant inlets 40b, including a first inlet 40b1 and a second inlet 40b2, which are located at opposite ends of the heat exchange assembly 40 along a first direction X. The heat exchange channel 40a includes a first channel 40a1, a second channel 40a2, and a confluence channel 40a3. The first channel 40a1 connects the first inlet 40b1 and the confluence channel 40a3, and the second channel 40a2 connects the second inlet 40b2 and the confluence channel 40a3. The confluence channel 40a3 extends at least along a second direction Y and has a first refrigerant outlet 40c. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the thickness direction of the heat exchange assembly 40 intersect each other but are not coplanar.

[0145] Optionally, the heat exchange assembly 40 may have two, three or more first refrigerant inlets 40b, each of which may include one, two or more first inlets 40b1 and one, two or more second inlets 40b2.

[0146] The first inlet 40b1 and the second inlet 40b2 are located at the two ends of the heat exchange assembly 40 along the first direction X. A portion of the low-temperature refrigerant separated by the first gas-liquid separator 54 flows into the first flow channel 40a1 through the first inlet 40b1, and the other portion flows into the second flow channel 40a2 through the second inlet 40b2. After exchanging heat with the battery cell 30 in the first flow channel 40a1 and the second flow channel 40a2, the low-temperature refrigerant flows into the confluence flow channel 40a3 and then flows out through the confluence flow channel 40a3.

[0147] If the confluence channel 40a3 is located in the middle region of the heat exchange component 40, the temperature of the refrigerant flowing into the confluence channel 40a3 via the first channel 40a1 and the second channel 40a2 will be basically the same, which is beneficial to improving the heat exchange uniformity between the battery cells 30 and the refrigerant in each region.

[0148] The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the thickness direction of the heat exchange component 40 can intersect each other at right angles, acute angles, or obtuse angles, respectively. For example, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the thickness direction of the heat exchange component 40 are perpendicular to each other.

[0149] The manifold 40a3 may be provided only along the second direction Y, or the manifold 40a3 may be provided inclined relative to the second direction Y. In this way, the first refrigerant outlet 40c may be located on the side of the heat exchange component 40 along the second direction Y, so that the refrigerant can be discharged to the outside of the heat exchange component 40 in a timely manner through the first refrigerant outlet 40c.

[0150] Understandably, after the low-temperature refrigerant flows into the first flow channel 40a1 and the second flow channel 40a2 respectively, as heat exchange with the battery cell 30 continues, the temperature of the refrigerant gradually increases, and the amount of heat that it can absorb from the battery cell 30 gradually decreases.

[0151] Optionally, the heat exchange channel 40a may include one or more first channels 40a1 and one or more second channels 40a2. The multiple first channels 40a1 can be connected in parallel, and the multiple second channels 40a2 can be connected in parallel. The first channel 40a1 or the second channel 40a2 may extend along a first direction X, or the first channel 40a1 or the second channel 40a2 may extend along a second direction Y. Alternatively, a portion of the first channel 40a1 or the second channel 40a2 may extend along the first direction X, and another portion may extend along the second direction Y.

[0152] Therefore, by setting the first inlet 40b1 and the second inlet 40b2 at the two ends of the heat exchange component 40 along the first direction X, a portion of the low-temperature refrigerant flows into the first flow channel 40a1 through the first inlet 40b1, and another portion of the low-temperature refrigerant flows into the second flow channel 40a2 through the second inlet 40b2. The first flow channel 40a1 and the second flow channel 40a2 are connected in parallel, so the temperature of the refrigerant in the first flow channel 40a1 and the second flow channel 40a2 is relatively consistent. This is beneficial to improving the uniformity of heat exchange between the battery cells 30 and the refrigerant in different regions along the second direction Y, thereby improving the temperature consistency of the battery cells 30 in different regions along the second direction Y, reducing the risk of excessively high temperature in some regions of the battery cells 30, and improving the reliability of the energy storage device 200.

[0153] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first flow channel 40a1 includes a plurality of first sub-flow channels 40a11 arranged along the second direction Y. The plurality of first sub-flow channels 40a11 extend at least along the first direction X. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the thickness direction intersect each other but are not coplanar. The heat exchange flow channel 40a also includes a first branch flow channel 40a4, which extends along the second direction Y and has a first inlet 40b1. The first branch flow channel 40a4 is connected to the plurality of first sub-flow channels 40a11.

[0154] Optionally, any two of the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the thickness direction can intersect at a right angle, an acute angle, or an obtuse angle. For example, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the thickness direction can be set perpendicular to each other.

[0155] The first flow channel 40a1 can extend along the first direction X in a long strip shape, or the first flow channel 40a1 can extend along the first direction X and the second direction Y in a curved shape. Multiple first flow channels 40a1 are arranged along the second direction Y. Two adjacent first flow channels 40a1 can be connected to each other or isolated from each other.

[0156] The low-temperature refrigerant separated in the first gas-liquid separator 54 flows into the first diversion channel 40a4 through the first inlet 40b1, then flows along the second direction Y. Within the first diversion channel 40a4, it is split into different first sub-channels 40a11 arranged along the second direction Y, where it exchanges heat with different battery cells 30. In this way, the refrigerant temperature in the different first sub-channels 40a11 arranged along the second direction Y is basically the same, and the refrigerant in one first sub-channel 40a11 only exchanges heat with the battery cells 30 in the corresponding region, resulting in minimal temperature differences within the same first sub-channel 40a11.

[0157] This helps to improve the heat exchange uniformity between the battery cells 30 and the refrigerant in different regions along the first direction X and the second direction Y, thereby improving the temperature consistency of the battery cells 30 in different regions and improving the reliability of the energy storage device 200.

[0158] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the second flow channel 40a2 includes a plurality of second sub-flow channels 40a21 arranged along the second direction Y. The plurality of second sub-flow channels 40a21 extend at least along the first direction X. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the thickness direction intersect each other but are not coplanar. The heat exchange flow channel 40a also includes a second branch flow channel 40a5, which extends along the second direction Y and has a second inlet 40b2. The second branch flow channel 40a5 is connected to the plurality of second sub-flow channels 40a21.

[0159] The second flow channel 40a2 can extend along the first direction X in a long strip shape, or the second flow channel 40a2 can extend along the first direction X and the second direction Y in a curved shape. Multiple second flow channels 40a2 are arranged along the second direction Y. Adjacent second flow channels 40a2 can be connected to each other or isolated from each other.

[0160] The low-temperature refrigerant separated in the first gas-liquid separator 54 flows into the second diversion channel 40a5 through the second inlet 40b2, and then flows along the second direction Y. Within the second diversion channel 40a5, it is split into different second sub-channels 40a21 arranged along the second direction Y, where it exchanges heat with different battery cells 30. In this way, the refrigerant temperature in the different second sub-channels 40a21 arranged along the second direction Y is basically the same, and the refrigerant in one second sub-channel 40a21 only exchanges heat with the battery cells 30 in the corresponding region, resulting in minimal temperature differences within the same second sub-channel 40a21.

[0161] This helps to improve the heat exchange uniformity between the battery cells 30 and the refrigerant in different regions along the first direction X and the second direction Y, thereby improving the temperature consistency of the battery cells 30 in different regions and improving the reliability of the energy storage device 200.

[0162] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the heat exchange assembly 40 includes a first plate and a second plate. The first plate and the second plate are welded together to form a plurality of weld stamp groups 41a spaced apart along the second direction Y. The weld stamp group 41a includes a plurality of weld stamps 41a1 arranged along the first direction X. A first flow channel 40a4 and / or a second flow channel 40a5 are provided between any two adjacent weld stamp groups 41a along the second direction Y.

[0163] The first and second plates can be welded together to form a solder mark 41a1, which can be hexagonal, quadrilateral, or octagonal, etc. Multiple solder marks 41a1 are spaced apart along a first direction X to form solder mark groups 41a. Multiple solder mark groups 41a are spaced apart along a second direction Y to form a first flow channel 40a4 and / or a second flow channel 40a5 between adjacent solder mark groups 41a. For example, a first flow channel 40a4 and a second flow channel 40a5 can be provided between two adjacent solder mark groups 41a along the second direction Y.

[0164] In this way, the arrangement of the weld marks 41a1 formed by welding the first plate and the second plate together, the arrangement of the first flow channel 40a4 and / or the second flow channel 40a5, and the arrangement of the weld marks 41a1 to form the first flow channel 40a4 and the second flow channel 40a5, are beneficial to simplifying the structure of the heat exchange component 40.

[0165] It is understandable that two adjacent solder marks 41a1 along the first direction X can be spaced apart. Therefore, two adjacent first branch channels 40a4 along the second direction Y can be interconnected, and two adjacent second branch channels 40a5 along the second direction Y can also be interconnected. In this way, the flow direction of the refrigerant can be controlled by the pressure difference between the first refrigerant inlet 40b and the first refrigerant outlet 40c, so that after the refrigerant flows into the first branch channel 40a4 or the second branch channel 40a5, it flows more along the first direction X, so that the refrigerant can exchange heat with the multiple battery cells 30 arranged along the first direction X.

[0166] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5As shown, the heat exchange assembly 40 has at least two first inlets 40b1, which are located on both sides of the heat exchange assembly 40 along the second direction Y; and / or, the heat exchange assembly 40 has at least two second inlets 40b2, which are located on both sides of the heat exchange assembly 40 along the second direction Y.

[0167] The heat exchange assembly 40 may include two first branch flow channels 40a4, each branch flow channel corresponding to a first inlet 40b1. Similarly, the heat exchange assembly 40 may include two second branch flow channels 40a5, each second branch flow channel 40a5 corresponding to a second inlet 40b2.

[0168] Thus, a portion of the liquid refrigerant flowing out of the first gas-liquid separator 54 flows into the first diversion channel 40a4 through the two first inlets 40b1 at both ends of the second direction Y, and flows into multiple first sub-channels 40a11 during the process of flowing through the first diversion channel 40a4.

[0169] This helps to improve the smoothness of the refrigerant flow in the first branch channel 40a4 and reduces the path of the refrigerant as it flows from the first inlet 40b1 into the first sub-channel 40a11, thereby improving the temperature uniformity of the refrigerant flowing into different first sub-channels 40a11 and further improving the uniformity of heat exchange between the refrigerant and the battery cells 30 in different regions.

[0170] Another portion of the liquid refrigerant flowing out of the first gas-liquid separator 54 flows into the second branch channel 40a5 through the two second inlets 40b2 at both ends of the second direction Y, and flows into multiple second sub-channels 40a21 during the process of flowing through the second branch channel 40a5.

[0171] This helps to improve the smoothness of the refrigerant flow in the second branch channel 40a5 and reduces the path of the refrigerant as it flows from the second inlet 40b2 into the second sub-channel 40a21, thereby improving the temperature uniformity of the refrigerant flowing into different second sub-channels 40a21 and further improving the uniformity of heat exchange between the refrigerant and the battery cells 30 in different regions.

[0172] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the energy storage device 200 also includes a distributor 60, which has an inlet 60a, multiple distribution channels and multiple outlets 60b. The first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a is connected to the inlet 60a, the distribution channels are connected to the inlet 60a and have outlets 60b, and the multiple outlets 60b are respectively connected to one of the first inlet 40b1 and the second inlet 40b2.

[0173] Multiple branch channels can be connected in parallel. The number of branch channels can be the same as the sum of the number of first inlet 40b1 and second inlet 40b2, so that an outlet 60b is connected to only one of the first inlet 40b1 and second inlet 40b2, and each first inlet 40b1 and second inlet 40b2 is connected to the corresponding branch channel.

[0174] The distributor 60 can split the liquid refrigerant flowing out of the first gas-liquid separator 54 so that the liquid refrigerant flows to the first inlet 40b1 and the second inlet 40b2 respectively, and it helps to simplify the pipeline connecting the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a and the first refrigerant inlet 40b.

[0175] In situations where heating of the battery cell 30 is required, such as when the energy storage device 200 is operating in an extremely cold environment, the flow direction of the refrigerant in the thermal management component 50 can be switched by setting up components such as reversing valves in the thermal management component 50 to provide high-temperature refrigerant to the heat exchange component 40. The high-temperature refrigerant heats the battery cell 30 as it flows through the heat exchange channel 40a.

[0176] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the heat exchange assembly 40 includes a body portion 41 and a heating element 42. The body portion 41 has a heat exchange flow channel 40a, and the heating element 42 is disposed on the body portion 41 and is used to heat the battery cell 30.

[0177] The heat exchange assembly 40 includes a body portion 41 and a heating element 42. The heating element 42 may be disposed on the surface of the body portion 41, or it may be disposed inside the body portion 41. The heating element 42 may be a heating element such as a resistance wire. When the battery cell 30 needs to be heated, the heating element 42 is energized to generate heat and heat the battery cell 30.

[0178] By including a heating element 42 in the heat exchange assembly 40, the battery cell 30 can be heated as needed, and the heating power of the battery cell 30 can be easily controlled by controlling the power of the heating element 42. Furthermore, the thermal management assembly 50 no longer needs to supply high-temperature refrigerant to the heat exchange channel 40a, eliminating the need for structures such as reversing valves and simplifying the structure of the thermal management assembly 50.

[0179] The heating element 42 can be wound into a rectangle, or the heating element 42 can be a heating film covering multiple areas of the main body 41. The shape or extension method of the heating element 42 can be set according to actual needs so that the heating element 42 covers multiple areas of the heat exchange assembly 40.

[0180] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4As shown, the heating element 42 includes multiple extension segments 421 and multiple bent segments 422. The multiple extension segments 421 are spaced apart from each other, and the bent segments 422 connect the ends of two adjacent extension segments 421. The multiple extension segments 421 are connected in series through the bent segments 422.

[0181] Optionally, the multiple extension segments 421 may be parallel or non-parallel to each other, and the multiple extension segments 421 may extend along the first direction X, or along the second direction Y, or along a direction that intersects both the first direction X and the second direction Y.

[0182] In this way, the heating element 42 can be extended in an "S" or "M" shape to cover more areas of the heat exchange assembly 40. The spacing between the two extension segments 421 along the first direction X can be set according to the size of the battery cell 30 along the first direction X, so that each battery cell 30 has a corresponding extension segment 421 to heat it.

[0183] Therefore, by providing the heating element 42 with an extension section 421 and a bending section 422, the heating element 42 can cover more areas of the heat exchange assembly 40 and heat more battery cells 30 when needed. This is beneficial to improving the heating efficiency of the heating element 42 on the battery cells 30 and improving the heating uniformity of the heating element 42 on the battery cells 30 in different areas.

[0184] Secondly, such as Figure 2 As shown, the energy storage system 2000 provided in this application embodiment includes a power conversion device and an energy storage device 200 provided in any of the above embodiments. The power conversion device is used to electrically connect the power generation device 3000 and the energy storage device 200.

[0185] The energy storage system 2000 provided in this application has the same technical effect as the energy storage device 200 provided in any of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0186] Thirdly, such as Figure 1 As shown, the charging network 1000 provided in this application embodiment includes a charging pile 300 and an energy storage device 200 provided in any of the above embodiments, or it includes a charging pile 300 and an energy storage system 2000 provided in the above embodiments, wherein the energy storage device 200 is used to provide electrical energy to the charging pile 300.

[0187] The charging network 1000 provided in this application embodiment has the same technical effect because it adopts the energy storage device 200 or energy storage system 2000 provided in any of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0188] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrates a specific embodiment of the energy storage device 200 provided in this application.

[0189] The energy storage device 200 provided in this application embodiment includes a housing 10, at least one battery cell 30, a heat exchange assembly 40, and a thermal management assembly 50. The housing 10 has a receiving cavity 10a, in which the battery cell 30 is received. The heat exchange assembly 40 is received in the receiving cavity 10a and is attached to at least one battery cell 30. The heat exchange assembly 40 has a heat exchange channel 40a, which has a first refrigerant inlet 40b and a first refrigerant outlet 40c. The thermal management assembly 50 includes a second gas-liquid separator 56, a compressor 51, a condenser 52, a liquid receiver 55, a throttling element 53, and a first gas-liquid separator 54. The second gas-liquid separator 56 has a second gaseous refrigerant outlet 56a and a second liquid refrigerant outlet 56b. The first refrigerant outlet 40c is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the second gas-liquid separator 56, the second gaseous refrigerant outlet 56a is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor 51, and the refrigerant outlet of the compressor 51 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the condenser 52. The refrigerant outlet of the condenser 52 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver 55. The refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver 55 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element 53. The refrigerant outlet of the throttling element 53 is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the first gas-liquid separator 54. The first gas-liquid separator 54 has a first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a and a first gaseous refrigerant outlet 54b. The first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a is connected to the first refrigerant inlet 40b, and the first gaseous refrigerant outlet 54b is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor 51. The second liquid refrigerant outlet 56b is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver 55.

[0190] Along the direction of gravity, the first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a is positioned closer to the top of the first refrigerant inlet 40b, the refrigerant outlet of the throttling element 53 is positioned closer to the top of the first refrigerant inlet 40b, and the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver 55 is positioned closer to the top of the first refrigerant inlet 40b.

[0191] The heat exchange assembly 40 has at least two first refrigerant inlets 40b, including a first inlet 40b1 and a second inlet 40b2. The first inlet 40b1 and the second inlet 40b2 are located at opposite ends of the heat exchange assembly 40 along a first direction X, which intersects the thickness direction of the heat exchange assembly 40. The heat exchange flow channel 40a includes a first flow channel 40a1, a second flow channel 40a2, and a confluence flow channel 40a3. The first flow channel 40a1 connects the first inlet 40b1 and the confluence flow channel 40a3, and the second flow channel 40a2 connects the second inlet 40b2 and the confluence flow channel 40a3. The confluence flow channel 40a3 has a first refrigerant outlet 40c. The first flow channel 40a1 includes a plurality of first sub-flow channels 40a11 arranged along a second direction Y. The plurality of first sub-flow channels 40a11 extend at least along the first direction X, and the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the thickness direction intersect each other but are not coplanar. The heat exchange channel 40a further includes a first branch channel 40a4, which extends along the second direction Y and has a first inlet 40b1. The first branch channel 40a4 is connected to a plurality of first sub-channels 40a11. The second channel 40a2 includes a plurality of second sub-channels 40a21 arranged along the second direction Y. The plurality of second sub-channels 40a21 extend at least along the first direction X. The heat exchange channel 40a further includes a second branch channel 40a5, which extends along the second direction Y and has a second inlet 40b2. The second branch channel 40a5 is connected to a plurality of second sub-channels 40a21.

[0192] The heat exchange assembly 40 includes a body portion 41 and a heating element 42. The body portion 41 has a heat exchange flow channel 40a, and the heating element 42 is disposed on the body portion 41 and used to heat the battery cell 30. The body portion 41 includes a first plate and a second plate, which are welded together to form a plurality of solder mark groups 41a spaced apart along a second direction Y. Each solder mark group 41a includes a plurality of solder marks 41a1 arranged along a first direction X. A first flow channel 40a4 and / or a second flow channel 40a5 are provided between any two adjacent solder mark groups 41a along the second direction Y. The heat exchange assembly 40 has at least two first inlets 40b1, which are located at both ends of the first flow channel 40a4 along the second direction Y. The heat exchange assembly 40 has at least two second inlets 40b2, which are located at both ends of the second flow channel 40a5 along the second direction Y. The heating element 42 includes multiple extension segments 421 and multiple bent segments 422. The multiple extension segments 421 are spaced apart from each other, and the bent segments 422 connect the ends of two adjacent extension segments 421. The multiple extension segments 421 are connected in series through the bent segments 422.

[0193] The energy storage device 200 also includes a distributor 60, which has an inlet 60a, multiple distribution channels and multiple outlets 60b. The first liquid refrigerant outlet 54a is connected to the inlet 60a, the distribution channels are connected to the inlet 60a and have outlets 60b, and the multiple outlets 60b are respectively connected to one of the first inlet 40b1 and the second inlet 40b2.

[0194] Although this application has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications can be made thereto and components can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of this application. In particular, the technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any manner, provided there is no structural conflict. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An energy storage device, characterized in that, include: The box-shaped enclosure has a receiving cavity; At least one battery cell is housed within the receiving cavity; A heat exchange assembly is housed within the receiving cavity and is in contact with at least one of the battery cells. The heat exchange assembly has a heat exchange channel, which has a first refrigerant inlet and a first refrigerant outlet. A thermal management assembly includes a compressor, a condenser, a throttling element, and a first gas-liquid separator. The first refrigerant outlet is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor, the refrigerant outlet of the compressor is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the condenser, the refrigerant outlet of the condenser is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element, and the refrigerant outlet of the throttling element is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the first gas-liquid separator. The first gas-liquid separator has a first liquid refrigerant outlet, which is connected to the first refrigerant inlet.

2. The energy storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first gas-liquid separator also has a first gaseous refrigerant outlet, which is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor.

3. The energy storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal management component also includes a liquid receiver, the refrigerant outlet of the condenser is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver, and the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element.

4. The energy storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal management component further includes a second gas-liquid separator, the first refrigerant outlet is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the second gas-liquid separator, the second gas-liquid separator has a second gaseous refrigerant outlet, and the second gaseous refrigerant outlet is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the compressor.

5. The energy storage device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The thermal management component also includes a liquid receiver, the refrigerant outlet of the condenser is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver, and the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element; The second gas-liquid separator also has a second liquid refrigerant outlet, which is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid storage tank.

6. The energy storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the direction of gravity, the first liquid refrigerant outlet is positioned closer to the top than the first refrigerant inlet; and / or, Along the direction of gravity, the refrigerant outlet of the throttling element is positioned closer to the top relative to the first refrigerant inlet; and / or, The thermal management component also includes a liquid receiver, the refrigerant outlet of the condenser is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the liquid receiver, the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver is connected to the refrigerant inlet of the throttling element, and the refrigerant outlet of the liquid receiver is positioned closer to the top relative to the first refrigerant inlet along the direction of gravity.

7. The energy storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The heat exchange assembly has at least two first refrigerant inlets, the at least two refrigerant inlets including a first inlet and a second inlet, the first inlet and the second inlet being located at both ends of the heat exchange assembly along a first direction; The heat exchange channel includes a first channel, a second channel, and a confluence channel. The first channel connects the first inlet and the confluence channel. The second channel connects the second inlet and the confluence channel. The confluence channel extends at least along a second direction and has a first refrigerant outlet. The first direction, the second direction, and the thickness direction of the heat exchange component intersect each other but are not coplanar.

8. The energy storage device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first flow channel includes a plurality of first sub-flow channels arranged along the second direction, and the plurality of first sub-flow channels extend at least along the first direction; The heat exchange channel further includes a first branch channel, which extends along the second direction and has a first inlet. The first branch channel is connected to a plurality of first sub-channels; and / or, The second flow channel includes a plurality of second sub-flow channels arranged along the second direction, and the plurality of second sub-flow channels extend at least along the first direction; The heat exchange channel further includes a second branch channel, which extends along the second direction and has a second inlet. The second branch channel is connected to a plurality of second sub-channels.

9. The energy storage device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heat exchange assembly includes a first plate and a second plate. The first plate and the second plate are welded together to form a plurality of weld stamp groups spaced apart along the second direction. Each weld stamp group includes a plurality of weld stamps arranged along the first direction. A first flow channel and / or a second flow channel are provided between any two adjacent weld stamp groups along the second direction.

10. The energy storage device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heat exchange assembly has at least two first inlets, the at least two first inlets being located on both sides of the heat exchange assembly along the second direction; and / or, The heat exchange assembly has at least two second inlets, which are located on both sides of the heat exchange assembly along the second direction.

11. The energy storage device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The energy storage device further includes a distributor, which has a liquid inlet, multiple distribution channels and multiple liquid outlets. The first liquid refrigerant outlet is connected to the liquid inlet, the distribution channels are connected to the liquid inlet and have liquid outlets, and the multiple liquid outlets are respectively connected to one of the first inlet and the second inlet.

12. The energy storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The heat exchange assembly includes a body and a heating element. The body has the heat exchange channel, and the heating element is disposed in the body and is used to heat the battery cell.

13. The energy storage device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The heating element includes multiple extension sections and multiple bending sections. The multiple extension sections are spaced apart from each other. The bending sections connect the ends of two adjacent extension sections. The multiple extension sections are connected in series through the bending sections.

14. An energy storage system, characterized in that, It includes a power conversion device and an energy storage device as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the power conversion device is used to electrically connect the power generation device and the energy storage device.

15. A charging network, characterized in that, It includes a charging pile and an energy storage device as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, or it includes a charging pile and an energy storage system as described in claim 14, wherein the energy storage device is used to provide electrical energy to the charging pile.

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