THERMAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR VEHICLES

Abstract

A thermal management system for a vehicle, wherein the thermal management system comprises: a cooling device (10) comprising a radiator (12), a first pump (14), a valve (V) and a reservoir (16) connected by a coolant line (11), and configured to circulate a coolant in the coolant line (11) to cool at least one electrical component (15) provided in the coolant line (11), a battery cooling device (20) comprising a battery coolant line (21) connected to the coolant line (11) via the valve (V), a second pump (22) and a battery module (24) connected to the battery coolant line (21) to circulate the coolant into the battery module (24), a heat exchanger (30) provided in the battery coolant line (21) between the battery module (24) and the valve (V) and connected to a refrigerant line (51) of an air conditioning system (50) via a refrigerant connection line (61) to adjust the temperature of the coolant by performing a heat exchange between the coolant circulating in the battery coolant line (21) and a refrigerant selectively supplied by the air conditioning system (50), a heater (52a) provided in the coolant line (11) between the at least one electrical component (15) and the radiator (12) to heat a vehicle interior using the coolant supplied by the cooling device (10), a branch line (18) with a first end section connected to the coolant line (11) between the heater (52a) and the radiator (12), and a second end section connected to the valve (V), and a heat exchanger connection line (31) that connects the heat exchanger (30) and the valve (V) separately from the battery coolant line (21), wherein the reservoir (16) is provided in the coolant line (11) between the radiator (12) and the valve (V) and is connected to the coolant line (11) connecting the valve (V) and the first pump (14) by a supply line (17) bypassing the valve (V), and wherein a condenser (53) provided in the air conditioning system (50) is connected to the coolant line (11) to allow the coolant circulating through the cooling device (10) to pass through it.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Area of ​​the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a thermal management system for a vehicle, and in particular a thermal management system for a vehicle that regulates the temperature of a battery module by using a heat exchanger that performs a heat exchange between a refrigerant and a coolant and improves heating efficiency by using waste heat generated by an electrical component. Description of the related technique

[0002] In recent years, electric vehicles have become popular as a future means of transportation, as environmental and energy resources have become important issues. Electric vehicles use a battery module, in which multiple rechargeable cells are arranged as a pack as the primary energy source, thus producing no exhaust fumes and very low noise levels.

[0003] Such an electric vehicle is powered by a drive motor that draws electrical energy from the battery module. In addition, the electric vehicle has electrical components for controlling and operating the drive motor, as well as a number of electronic comfort features and for charging the battery module.

[0004] On the other hand, since a large amount of heat is generated in the battery and electrical components as well as the drive motor, which serves as the primary power source of the electric vehicle, efficient cooling is required, so efficient thermal management of the electrical components and the battery module can be a significant problem.

[0005] Conventionally, separate cooling systems are used to regulate the temperature of the electrical components and the battery module, but this necessitates a corresponding increase in cooling system capacity, which leads to space limitations. Furthermore, increasing the cooling system capacity also increases the power required to operate the cooling systems.

[0006] Accordingly, it is necessary to develop technologies for the efficient use of the waste heat generated by the electrical components and for adjusting the temperature of the electrical components and the battery in order to maximize energy efficiency while ensuring the durability of the electrical components and the battery module in the electric vehicle.

[0007] The information contained in this section “Background of the present invention” is intended only to improve the understanding of the general background of the present invention and should not be construed as an acknowledgment or an indication that this information constitutes prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

[0008] For example, a thermal management system for a vehicle is known from DE 10 2020 131 554 A1, wherein the thermal management system comprises: a cooling device for circulating a coolant in a coolant line and for cooling at least one electrical component provided in the coolant line; a battery cooling device with a battery coolant line connected to the coolant line via a valve for temperature control of a battery located in the battery coolant line; a refrigeration unit (heat exchanger) provided in the battery coolant line for adjusting the temperature of the coolant by performing a heat exchange between the coolant circulating in the battery coolant line and a refrigerant selectively supplied by an air conditioning system; and a heating device (heater) connected to the coolant line by means of a further valve.to heat a vehicle interior using the coolant supplied by the cooling device.

[0009] Further thermal management systems are known from, for example, DE 10 2019 130 748 A1 and DE 10 2020 119 339 A1. BRIEF EXPLANATION

[0010] Numerous aspects of the present invention are aimed at providing a heat or temperature management system (hereinafter referred to as: To provide a thermal management system for a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle, e.g., electric vehicle) that regulates the temperature of a battery module by using a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between a refrigerant and a coolant and improves heating efficiency by using waste heat generated by an electrical component.

[0011] Numerous aspects of the present invention are aimed at providing a thermal management system for a vehicle, comprising: a cooling device with a radiator (e.g., an air-to-water heat exchanger, which is, for example, mounted on the front of a vehicle), a first water pump, a valve, and a reservoir (e.g., an expansion tank) connected via a coolant line (e.g., to each other) to circulate a coolant in the coolant line to cool at least one electrical component provided in or on the coolant line; a battery cooling device or battery temperature control device (hereinafter referred to as: battery cooling device) with a battery coolant line that is connected or connectable to the coolant line via the valve, and a second water pump and a battery module connected to the battery coolant line to circulate the coolant in the battery module.to circulate into the battery module, a heat exchanger (e.g., liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger) provided in or on the battery coolant line between the battery module and the valve and connected to an air conditioning refrigerant line via a refrigerant connection line to adjust the coolant temperature by performing a heat exchange between the coolant circulating in the battery coolant line and a refrigerant selectively supplied by the air conditioning system, a heater (e.g., a heating unit, e.g., an air-to-liquid heat exchanger) provided in or on the coolant line between the electrical component and the radiator to heat a vehicle interior (e.g., vehicle interior) by using the coolant supplied by the cooling device, a (e.g.,A branch line with a first end section connected to the coolant line between the heater and the radiator, and a second end section connected to the valve, and a refrigerant connection line (hereinafter referred to as: refrigerant connection line) that connects the heat exchanger and the valve separately from the battery coolant line, wherein the reservoir is provided in the coolant line between the radiator and the valve and is connected to the coolant line connecting the valve and the first water pump via a supply line, and wherein a condenser provided in the air conditioning system is connected to the coolant line to convey the refrigerant circulating through the cooling device.

[0012] The valve may, for example, have: a first connection connected to the coolant line (or section of the coolant line) that is connected to the reservoir; a second connection connected to the coolant line (or section of the coolant line) that is connected to the first water pump; a third connection connected to the heat exchanger connection line (hereinafter referred to as the heat exchanger connection line); a fourth connection connected to the branch line; a fifth connection connected to the battery coolant line (or section of the battery coolant line) that is connected to the heat exchanger; and a sixth connection connected to the battery coolant line (or section of the battery coolant line) that is connected to the second water pump.

[0013] The valve can be operated, for example, so that the coolant is discharged through a port adjacent to another port into which coolant is introduced under the first port, the second port, the third port, the fourth port, the fifth port and the sixth port.

[0014] The air conditioning system may, for example, include: a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning module (HVAC module) with an evaporator connected to the refrigerant line and an opening and closing damper designed to control outside air passing through the evaporator, which is selectively introduced into the heater depending on the vehicle's cooling mode, heating mode, and heating and dehumidifying mode; a condenser provided in the refrigerant line and in the coolant line between the radiator and the heater to circulate a coolant in the condenser(s) to facilitate heat exchange between the coolant and a refrigerant supplied through the refrigerant line; a compressor connected between the evaporator and the condenser via the refrigerant line; and an auxiliary or auxiliary heater.Auxiliary or secondary condenser (hereinafter referred to as support condenser) provided in the refrigerant line between the condenser and the evaporator, a first expansion valve provided in the refrigerant line between the support condenser and the evaporator, and a second expansion valve provided in the refrigerant supply line.

[0015] The second expansion valve can, for example, expand the refrigerant introduced through the refrigerant connection line, so that when cooling the battery module, it flows through the refrigerant to the heat exchanger.

[0016] A first end section of the refrigerant connection line can be connected, for example, to the refrigerant line between the support condenser and the first expansion valve, and a second end section of the refrigerant connection line can be connected to the refrigerant line between the evaporator and the compressor.

[0017] The heat exchanger and the condenser can each be a water-cooled heat exchanger, and the auxiliary condenser can be an air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0018] The HVAC module may further include, for example, an air heater (e.g., a heater for heating air) which is provided on a side opposite the evaporator in relation to the heater, with the heater being arranged between the air heater and the evaporator in order to selectively heat the outside air flowing through the heater.

[0019] The air heating system can be operated in such a way that the temperature of the outside air passing through the heater is increased if the temperature of a coolant supplied to the heater is lower than a target temperature for indoor heating.

[0020] When the battery module is cooled in the vehicle's cooling mode, the coolant in the cooling system can circulate through the coolant line via the operation of the first water pump, and the supply line can be / become open. The branch line and the refrigerant connection line can be / become closed by actuating the valve. The coolant line and the battery coolant line can form independent closed circuits by actuating the valve. In the battery cooling system, the coolant flowing through the heat exchanger can be supplied to the battery module along the battery coolant line via the operation of the second water pump. In the air conditioning system, the refrigerant line connecting the auxiliary condenser and the evaporator can be / become open by actuating the first expansion valve, and the refrigerant connection line can be / become open by actuating the second expansion valve.and the first and second expansion valves can expand the refrigerant supplied to the refrigerant line or the refrigerant connection line and supply the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator and the heat exchanger.

[0021] The condenser can liquefy the refrigerant through heat exchange with the coolant, and the auxiliary condenser can additionally liquefy the refrigerant introduced by the condenser through heat exchange with the outside air (e.g.).

[0022] When cooling the electrical component and the battery module using the coolant, the branch line can be closed by actuating the valve, the heat exchanger connection line can be opened by actuating the valve, the supply line can be open, a section of the battery coolant line connecting the heat exchanger and the first valve can be closed by actuating the valve, and the coolant line connecting the reservoir and the valve can be connected to the battery coolant line by actuating the valve.The coolant cooled in the radiator can flow through the battery module along the battery coolant line from the valve by the operation of the first and second water pumps, and the coolant passing through the battery module from the heat exchanger to the valve can be introduced along the open refrigerant connection line and can then be supplied to the electrical component while flowing along the coolant line connected to the first water pump.

[0023] When the waste heat from the electrical component is used in the vehicle's heating mode, the branch line and the heat exchanger connection line can be opened by actuating the valve; the coolant line connected to the radiator, reservoir, and valve in the cooling device can be closed based on the branch line; the supply line can be open; the battery coolant line, with the exception of the battery coolant line connected to the heat exchanger, can be closed by actuating the valve; the coolant, at a temperature increased by the operation of the first water pump as it passes through the electrical component, can be supplied to the heater along the open coolant line without passing through the radiator.The coolant dispensed by the heater can be introduced into the valve along the open coolant line and the open branch line; the coolant introduced into the valve can be reintroduced into the valve along the open coolant line after passing through the heat exchanger along the open section of the battery coolant line; and the coolant reintroduced into the valve can be supplied to the electrical component along the open coolant line.

[0024] When the waste heat from the electrical component is used and cooling of the electrical component is required, in a heating mode of the vehicle, the branch line and the heat exchanger connection line can be closed by actuating the valve, the coolant line can be opened in the cooling device, the supply line can be opened, the battery cooling device can be deactivated, the coolant, which has a temperature that is increased while passing through the electrical component due to the operation of the first water pump, can be supplied to the heater along the coolant line, and the coolant supplied by the heater can be cooled while passing through the radiator along the coolant line due to the operation of the first water pump, and can then recover waste heat from the electrical component while passing through the electrical component.and cools the electrical component at the same time.

[0025] The valve could be, for example, a 6-way valve.

[0026] The electrical component may include, for example, an electric power control unit (EPCU) and / or a motor and / or an inverter and / or an autonomous driving controller and / or an on-board charger (OBC).

[0027] The supply line can be connected to the coolant line, for example, if the coolant circulates into the coolant line through the operation of the first water pump.

[0028] The battery cooling device may, for example, further include a first coolant heater, which is provided in the battery coolant line between the battery module and the heat exchanger.

[0029] When the battery module is heated, for example the first coolant heater can be operated to heat a coolant that is supplied to the battery module via the battery coolant line.

[0030] When the battery module is heated, for example, the battery coolant line may not be connected to the coolant line by actuating the valve, the branch line and the heat exchanger connection line may be closed by actuating the valve, the coolant may circulate along the battery coolant line by operating the second water pump, and the first coolant heater may be operated to heat a coolant that is supplied to the battery module along the battery coolant line.

[0031] As described above, according to the thermal management system for the vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the temperature of the battery module can be adjusted depending on the operating state of the vehicle by using a heat exchanger to carry out the heat exchange between the coolant and the refrigerant, and the interior of the vehicle can be heated by using the coolant, thereby simplifying the entire system.

[0032] According to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is also possible to improve the heating efficiency by recovering the waste heat from the electrical component and using it for indoor heating.

[0033] Furthermore, according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to optimize the performance of the battery module by efficiently controlling the temperature of the battery module and to increase the overall driving range of the vehicle by efficiently managing the battery module.

[0034] Furthermore, according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the cooling performance can be improved and the power consumption of a compressor reduced by increasing the condensation performance of the refrigerant using a condenser and an auxiliary condenser.

[0035] Furthermore, according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, manufacturing costs can be reduced, weight reduced and space utilization improved by simplifying an overall system.

[0036] The devices of the present invention have further advantages which are evident or are explained in more detail from the accompanying drawings included herein and the following detailed description, which together serve to explain certain principles of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 2 is an enlarged view of section A from Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 3 shows an operating state diagram for cooling electrical components and a battery module by using a cooler in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. Figure 4 shows an operating state diagram for cooling a battery module using a refrigerant in a cooling mode of a vehicle in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. Figure 5 shows an operating state diagram for carrying out the heating mode using waste heat from an electrical component in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. Figure 6 shows an operating state diagram for cooling an electrical component during the execution of the heating mode using waste heat from the electrical component in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. Figure 7 shows a detailed perspective view of the heating of a battery module in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] It is clear that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily to scale and represent a somewhat simplified depiction of the numerous functions to illustrate the basic principles of the present invention. The specific design features of the present invention, as contained herein, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, are partly determined by the intended application and operating environment.

[0038] In the figures, the reference numerals denote identical or equivalent parts of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Reference will now be made in detail to numerous embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described below. While the present invention is described in connection with exemplary embodiments, it is clear that the present description is not intended to limit the present invention to these exemplary embodiments. On the other hand, the present invention is not intended to cover only the exemplary embodiments, but also numerous alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and other embodiments that may be included within the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by the accompanying claims.

[0040] Numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Exemplary embodiments shown and described in the drawings represent only the preferred exemplary embodiments of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is clear that numerous variations and modifications may be made at the time of filing the present application.

[0042] To clarify the present invention, parts not related to the description are omitted, and the same elements or equivalents are designated by the same reference numerals throughout the description.

[0043] The size and thickness of the individual elements are arbitrarily represented in the drawings, but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and the thicknesses of the layers, films, plates, areas, etc. are exaggerated in the drawings for clarity.

[0044] In the entire present description and the following claims, unless expressly stated otherwise, the term "have" or variations such as "having" or "containing" shall be understood to mean the inclusion of the specified elements, but not the exclusion of other elements.

[0045] Furthermore, the terms “...unit”, “...device”, “...part”, “...element”, etc. used here refer to a unit of components that perform at least one or more functions or operations.

[0046] Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and Fig. Figure 2 is an enlarged view of section A of Fig. 1.

[0047] According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the thermal management system for a vehicle can adjust the temperature of a battery module 24 by using a heat exchanger 30 in which a refrigerant and a coolant exchange heat, and can recover waste heat generated by an electrical component 15 for use in interior heating.

[0048] Such a thermal management system can be used in electric vehicles.

[0049] Referring to Fig. 1 The thermal management system can include a cooling device 10, a battery cooling device 20, a heat exchanger 30 and a heater 52a.

[0050] The cooling device 10 has a radiator 12 which is connected to a coolant line 11, a first water pump 14, a valve V and a reservoir 16.

[0051] The radiator 12 is located in the front part of the vehicle, and a cooling fan 13 is located behind the radiator 12, so that the coolant is cooled by the operation of the cooling fan 13 and by heat exchange with outside air.

[0052] Furthermore, the electrical component 15 may include an electric power control unit (EPCU) and / or a motor and / or an inverter and / or an autonomous driving controller or an on-board charger (OBC).

[0053] The electrical component 15, set up as described above, can be provided in or on the coolant line 11 in order to be water-cooled.

[0054] Accordingly, when waste heat from the electrical component 15 is recovered in the vehicle's heating mode, the heat generated by the EPCU and / or the motor and / or the inverter and / or the autonomous driving controller and / or the OBC can be recovered.

[0055] The reservoir 16 is located in or on the coolant line 11 between the radiator 12 and the first water pump 14. The coolant cooled in the radiator 12 can be stored in the reservoir 16.

[0056] The cooling device 10 can circulate the coolant in the coolant line 11 by operating the first water pump 14 in such a way that the coolant is supplied to the electrical component 15 provided in the coolant line 11.

[0057] Furthermore, the reservoir 16 can be connected via a supply line 17 to the coolant line 11, which connects the first valve V1 and the first water pump 14.

[0058] The supply line 17 can be connected to the coolant line 11 if the coolant circulates into the coolant line 11 through the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0059] This means that when the first water pump 14 is operated, a portion of the stored coolant can always flow from the reservoir 16 into the coolant line 11 via the supply line 17.

[0060] Accordingly, the occurrence of cavitation in the first water pump 14 can be prevented during operation. Furthermore, damage to the first water pump 14 due to cavitation can be prevented in advance.

[0061] Furthermore, the cooling device 10 can also have a branch line 18.

[0062] A first end section of branch line 18 is connected to the coolant line 11 between the radiator 12 and the electrical component 15. A second end section of branch line 18 can be connected to the valve V.

[0063] When the waste heat from the electrical component 15 is recovered, the branch line 18 can be selectively opened and closed by actuating the valve V, so that the coolant that has flowed through the electrical component 15 is returned to the electrical component 15 without passing through the cooler 12.

[0064] In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the battery cooling device 20 has a battery coolant line 21, which is connected to the coolant line 11 via the valve V, as well as a second water pump 22 and the battery module 24 connected to the battery coolant line 21.

[0065] The battery cooling device 20 can selectively circulate the coolant in the battery module 24 by operating the second water pump 22.

[0066] Here, the first and second water pumps can be 14 and 22 electric water pumps.

[0067] The battery cooling device 20 can further include a first coolant heater 26, which is provided in the battery coolant line 21 between the battery module 24 and the valve V.

[0068] If it is necessary to increase the temperature of the battery module 24, the first coolant heater 26 is switched on to heat the coolant circulating in the battery coolant line 21 so that the coolant, whose temperature is being increased, can be supplied to the battery module 24.

[0069] The first coolant heater 26 can be an electric heater that operates according to a power supply.

[0070] This means that the first coolant heater 26 is operated when the temperature of the coolant supplied to the battery module 24 is lower than a set temperature, so that the coolant circulating in the battery coolant line 21 can be heated.

[0071] Accordingly, the coolant, which has an increased temperature when passing through the first coolant heater 26, can be supplied to the battery module 24 to increase the temperature of the battery module 24.

[0072] This means that the first coolant heater 26 can be operated selectively when the temperature of the battery module 24 is increased.

[0073] In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the heat exchanger 30 is provided in or on the battery coolant line 21 between the valve V and the battery module 24.

[0074] The heat exchanger 30 is connected to a refrigerant line 51 of an air conditioning system 50 via a refrigerant connection line 61. This means that the heat exchanger 30 can be a water-cooled heat exchanger in which a coolant (such as refrigerant) flows.

[0075] Here, the heat exchanger 30 can be connected to the valve V via a heat exchanger connection line 31.

[0076] This means that the heat exchanger connection line 31 can connect the heat exchanger 30 and the valve V separately or independently of the battery coolant line 21 by actuating the valve V.

[0077] Accordingly, the heat exchanger 30 can regulate the temperature of the coolant by carrying out a heat exchange between the coolant, which is selectively supplied to the battery coolant line 21 and the heat exchanger connection line 31, and the refrigerant, which is selectively supplied by the air conditioning system 50.

[0078] Here, a first end section of the heat exchanger connection line 31 is connected to the valve V. A second end section of the heat exchanger connection line 31 can be connected to the heat exchanger 30.

[0079] The heat exchanger connection line 31 can connect the heat exchanger 30 to the valve V according to the actuation of the valve V.

[0080] The heater 52a is provided in or on the coolant line 11 between the electrical component 15 and the radiator 12 to heat a vehicle interior using the coolant.

[0081] Accordingly, when heating a vehicle interior, the high-temperature coolant that has passed through the electrical component 15 can be supplied to the heater 52a.

[0082] This means that the high-temperature coolant flowing through the electrical component 15 is supplied to the heater 52a by the operation of the first water pump 14 in the vehicle's heating mode, thereby heating the vehicle interior.

[0083] The heater 52a can be provided in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning module (hereinafter also referred to as HVAC module) of the air conditioning unit 50.

[0084] Here, a second coolant heater 43 can be provided in or on the coolant line 11 between the electrical component 15 and the heater 52a for the selective heating of the coolant circulating in the coolant line 11.

[0085] The second coolant heater 43 is switched on when the temperature of the coolant supplied to the heater 52a in the vehicle's heating mode is lower than a set temperature, in order to heat the coolant circulating in the coolant line 11, with the coolant, whose temperature is increased, being supplied to the heater 52a.

[0086] The second coolant heater 43 can be an electric heater that operates according to a power supply.

[0087] On the other hand, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is described that the second coolant heater 43 is provided in the coolant line 11, but it is not limited to this, and instead of (e.g. also: in addition to) the second coolant heater 43, an air heater 45 can be used to increase the temperature of the outside air flowing into the interior of the vehicle.

[0088] The air heater 45 can be installed at the rear or behind the heater 52a towards the vehicle interior within the HVAC module 52 in order to selectively heat the outside air flowing through the heater 52a.

[0089] This means that, for example, either the second coolant heater 43 or the air heater 45 can be used together with the heater 52a.

[0090] The heater 52a, set up as described above, is supplied with the coolant, the temperature of which is increased by the operation of the first water pump 14 when flowing through the electrical component 15 in the heating mode of the vehicle and heats the vehicle interior.

[0091] In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the air conditioning system 50 comprises the HVAC module 52, a condenser 53, a support condenser 54, a first expansion valve 55, an evaporator 56 and a compressor 59, which are connected via the refrigerant line 51.

[0092] Firstly, the HVAC module 52 has the evaporator 56, which is connected to it by the refrigerant line 51, and an opening and closing flap 52b for controlling the outside air flowing through the evaporator 56 to be selectively introduced into the heater 52a depending on the cooling mode, heating mode and heating and dehumidifying mode of the vehicle inside.

[0093] This means that the opening and closing flap 52b opens so that, in the vehicle's heating mode, the outside air flowing through the evaporator 56 can be introduced into the heater 52a. Conversely, in the vehicle's cooling mode, the opening and closing flap 52b closes the heater 52a, so that the outside air, which is cooled as it flows through the evaporator 56, flows directly into the vehicle.

[0094] If the second coolant heater 43 is not provided in the coolant line 11, the air heater 45 provided in the HVAC module 52 can be provided on a side opposite the evaporator 56, with the heater 52a positioned in between.

[0095] The air heater 45 can be operated in such a way that the temperature of the outside air flowing into the heater 52a is increased if the temperature of the coolant supplied to the heater 52a is lower than a setpoint temperature for the indoor (room) heating.

[0096] On the other hand, the air heater 45 can be provided within the HVAC module 52 if the second coolant heater 43 is not provided in the coolant line 11.

[0097] This means that in the thermal management system according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, for example only one of the second coolant heater 43 and the air heater 45 can be used.

[0098] In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the condenser 53 is connected to the refrigerant line 51, allowing the refrigerant to pass through it. The condenser 53 is positioned on the coolant line 11 between the heater 52a and the radiator 12, allowing the refrigerant circulating in the coolant line 11 to pass through it.

[0099] The condenser 53 can condense the refrigerant by heat exchange with the coolant circulating in the coolant line 11. That is, the condenser 53 can be a water-cooled heat exchanger through which the coolant flows.

[0100] The condenser 53, set up as described above, can carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant supplied by the compressor 59 and the coolant supplied by the cooling device 10 in order to condense the refrigerant.

[0101] In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the support condenser 54 can be provided in the refrigerant line 51 between the condenser 53 and the evaporator 56.

[0102] Here, the auxiliary condenser 54 can further condense the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 53 by exchanging heat with the outside air. In other words, the auxiliary condenser 54 is located upstream of the cooler 12, so that the refrigerant flowing into it exchanges heat with the outside air.

[0103] Consequently, the support condenser 54 can be an air-cooled heat exchanger for condensing the refrigerant using outside air.

[0104] Accordingly, the support condenser 54 can further condense the refrigerant condensed in the condenser 53 in order to increase the subcooling of the refrigerant and thus improve the coefficient of performance (COP), which is a coefficient of cooling capacity in relation to the power required by the compressor.

[0105] The first expansion valve 55 is provided in the refrigerant line 51 between the auxiliary condenser 54 and the evaporator 56. The first expansion valve 55 receives the refrigerant flowing through the second condenser 54 in order to expand it.

[0106] In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a first end section of the refrigerant connection line 61 is connected to the refrigerant line 51 between the auxiliary condenser 54 and the first expansion valve 55. A second end section of the refrigerant connection line 61 can be connected to the refrigerant line 51 between the evaporator 56 and the compressor 59.

[0107] A second expansion valve 63 is provided in the refrigerant connection line 61. The second expansion valve 63 can expand the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant connection line 61 to introduce it into the heat exchanger 30 when the battery module 24 is cooled with the coolant that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant.

[0108] The second expansion valve 63 is actuated to expand the refrigerant when the battery module 24 is cooled using the coolant that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant.

[0109] This means that the second expansion valve 63 can introduce the refrigerant discharged from the support condenser 54 into the heat exchanger 30 in a state in which the temperature of the refrigerant is reduced by expansion of the refrigerant in order to further reduce the temperature of the coolant flowing through the interior of the heat exchanger 30.

[0110] This allows the coolant, whose temperature is reduced as it passes through the heat exchanger 30, to be introduced into the battery module 24 and cooled more efficiently.

[0111] The compressor 59 is connected via the refrigerant line 51 between the evaporator 56 and the condenser 53. The compressor 59 can compress the gaseous refrigerant and supply the compressed refrigerant to the condenser 53.

[0112] Here, the first and second expansion valves 55 and 63 can be electronic expansion valves that selectively expand the refrigerant while controlling the flow of refrigerant through the refrigerant line 51 or the refrigerant connection line 61.

[0113] Furthermore, valve V can be a 6-way valve.

[0114] The following describes the construction of valve V with reference to Fig. 2 described in more detail.

[0115] In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the valve V can have a first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth port P1, P2, P3, P4, P5 and P6.

[0116] The first connection P1 is connected to the coolant line 11, which is connected to the reservoir 16.

[0117] The second connection P2 is connected to the coolant line 11, which is connected to the first water pump 14.

[0118] Here, the supply line 17 can be connected to the coolant line 11, which connects the second connection P2 and the first water pump 14.

[0119] The third connection P3 is connected to the heat exchanger connection line 31, and the fourth connection P4 is connected to the branch line 18.

[0120] The fifth connection P5 is connected to the battery coolant line 21, which is connected to the heat exchanger 30 between the heat exchanger 30 and the valve V.

[0121] The sixth terminal P6 is connected to the battery coolant line 21, which is connected to the second water pump 22.

[0122] Here, the valve V can be actuated so that the coolant is discharged through a port adjacent to the port into which the coolant is introduced under the first to sixth ports P1, P2, P3, P4, P5 and P6.

[0123] For example, the coolant introduced into the first port P1 can be discharged through the second port P2 or the sixth port P6, which is located adjacent to the first port P1, depending on the actuation of the valve V.

[0124] This means that the valve V is designed to simplify the structure, and for the simplicity of the valve control, when two adjacent ports are closed, the remaining four ports are opened so that two adjacent ports (e.g., among the four open ports) are connected to each other, thereby controlling the flow of coolant.

[0125] Furthermore, the valve V can be operated so that the remaining two ports are connected to each other in order to control the flow of coolant when four adjacent ports are closed.

[0126] The following describes the operation and function of the thermal management system for the vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which is set up as described above, with reference to Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 described in detail.

[0127] First, with reference to Fig. 3 a case of cooling the electrical component 15 and the battery module 24 using the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 in the thermal management system for the vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0128] Fig. Figure 3 shows an operating state diagram for cooling the electrical component and a battery module by using a cooler in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0129] Referring to Fig. 3. Branch line 18 is closed by actuating valve V. The heat exchanger connection line 31 is opened by actuating valve V.

[0130] Supply line 17 is / is open. This means that some of the coolant stored in reservoir 16 can circulate through the open supply line 17 along coolant line 11.

[0131] Here, a section of the battery coolant line 21, which connects the heat exchanger 30 and the valve V, is closed by actuating the valve V.

[0132] Furthermore, the battery coolant line 21 is connected to the coolant line 11 by actuating the valve V.

[0133] The coolant line 11, which connects the reservoir 16 and the valve V, is connected to the battery coolant line 21 by actuating the valve V.

[0134] In the present state, the first water pump 14 is operated in the cooling device 10 to cool the electrical component 15.

[0135] In the battery cooling device 20, the second water pump 22 is operated to cool the battery module 24.

[0136] Accordingly, the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 and stored in the reservoir 16 is supplied to the battery module 24, while it circulates through the battery coolant line 21 by actuating the valve V and operating the second water pump 22.

[0137] This means that the coolant introduced from the reservoir 16 through the first connection P1 into the valve V is introduced through the sixth connection P6 into the battery coolant line 21.

[0138] The coolant introduced into the battery coolant line 21 passes through the battery module 24 and is introduced into the heat exchanger 30.

[0139] Accordingly, the coolant flowing through the battery module 24 is directed from the heat exchanger 30 along the open heat exchanger connection line 31 to the valve V. The coolant can then be supplied to the electrical component 15 as it flows along the coolant line 11 connected to the first water pump 14, driven by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0140] This means that the coolant discharged by the heat exchanger 30 is introduced into the third port P3 of the valve V along the open heat exchanger connection line 31 and discharged through the second port P2 into the coolant line 11 connected to the first water pump 14.

[0141] Here, some of the coolant stored in the reservoir 16 can circulate along the coolant line 11 through the open supply line 17.

[0142] This means that the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 and stored in the reservoir 16 circulates through the coolant line 11 and the battery coolant line 21 by the operation of the first and second water pumps 14 and 22 respectively, in order to efficiently cool the electrical component 15 and the battery module 24.

[0143] The air conditioning system 50 is not operating because the vehicle's cooling mode is deactivated.

[0144] On the other hand, although it has been described in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention that both the electrical component 15 and the battery module 24 are cooled, the present invention is not limited thereto, and if one of the electrical component 15 and the battery module 24 is cooled separately, the first and second water pumps 14 and 22, and the valve V can be operated or actuated selectively.

[0145] The operating principle for cooling battery module 24 in the vehicle's cooling mode is described with reference to Fig. 4 described.

[0146] Fig. Figure 4 shows an operating state diagram for cooling a battery module using a refrigerant in a cooling mode of a vehicle in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0147] Referring to Fig. 4. In the cooling device 10, the coolant is circulated in the coolant line 11 by the operation of the first water pump 14. At the same time, the supply line 17 is / is opened.

[0148] This means that some of the coolant stored in the reservoir 16 can circulate along the coolant line 11 through the open supply line 17.

[0149] Here, branch line 18 and heat exchanger connection line 31 are closed by actuating valve V.

[0150] Accordingly, the coolant introduced from the reservoir 16 into the valve V through the first connection P1 can be introduced into the coolant line 11 through the second connection P2.

[0151] In the battery cooling device 20, the second water pump 22 is operated to cool the battery module 24.

[0152] Accordingly, in the battery cooling device 20, the coolant can circulate in the battery coolant line 21 by operating the second water pump 22.

[0153] Here, the cooling device 10 and the battery cooling device 20 can each form an independent closed circuit, through which each coolant circulates separately by actuating the valve V.

[0154] This means that the battery cooling device 20 is not connected to the coolant line 11 by the actuation of the valve V.

[0155] In the present state, the battery cooling device 20 can form a closed circuit through which the coolant circulates independently in the battery coolant line 21 by the operation of the second water pump 22.

[0156] This means that the coolant line 11 and the battery coolant line 21 each form independent closed circuits through the actuation of valve V.

[0157] Accordingly, in the battery cooling device 20, the coolant passing through the heat exchanger 30 can be supplied to the battery module 24 along the battery coolant line 21 by operating the second water pump 22.

[0158] The coolant introduced into the battery coolant line 21 passes through the battery module 24 and is introduced into the heat exchanger 30.

[0159] Accordingly, the coolant flowing through the battery module 24 is introduced from the heat exchanger 30 along the open battery coolant line 21 into the valve V. The coolant can then be supplied to the battery module 24 as it flows along the battery coolant line 21 through the operation of the second water pump 22.

[0160] This means that the coolant output from the heat exchanger 30 is introduced into the fifth port P5 of the valve V along the battery coolant line 21 and output via the sixth port P6 into the battery coolant line 21 connected to the second water pump 22.

[0161] In the cooling device 10, the coolant is circulated in the coolant line 11 by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0162] Accordingly, the coolant cooled in the radiator 12 can be supplied to the condenser 53 by the operation of the first and third water pumps 14 and 42, after it has passed through the electrical component 15.

[0163] In the air conditioning system 50, each individual element works to cool the vehicle interior. Accordingly, the refrigerant is circulated along the refrigerant line 51.

[0164] Here, the refrigerant line 51, which connects the auxiliary condenser 54 and the evaporator 56, is opened by actuating the first expansion valve 55. The refrigerant connection line 61 is opened by actuating the second expansion valve 63.

[0165] Accordingly, after passing through the support condenser 54, the refrigerant can circulate along the refrigerant line 51 and the refrigerant connection line 61.

[0166] Here, the first and second expansion valves 55 and 63 can expand the refrigerant, so that the expanded refrigerant is supplied to the evaporator 56 or the heat exchanger 30.

[0167] The condenser 53 condenses the refrigerant using the refrigerant flowing along the refrigerant line 11. Furthermore, the auxiliary condenser 54 can further condense the refrigerant introduced by the condenser 53 through heat exchange with the outside air.

[0168] The coolant flowing through the heat exchanger 30 is circulated in the battery coolant line 21 to cool the battery module 24 by operating the second water pump 22.

[0169] The coolant passing through heat exchanger 30 is cooled by heat exchange with the expanded refrigerant supplied to heat exchanger 30. The coolant cooled in heat exchanger 30 is then supplied to battery module 24. The battery module 24 is thus cooled by the cooled coolant.

[0170] This means that the second expansion valve 63 expands part of the coolant through the support condenser 54 to supply the expanded coolant to the heat exchanger 30, and opens the refrigerant connection line 61.

[0171] Accordingly, the refrigerant discharged from the support condenser 54 is expanded by actuating the second expansion valve 63 to enter a low-temperature and low-pressure state and flows into the heat exchanger 30 connected to the refrigerant connection line 61.

[0172] The refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger 30 then undergoes a heat exchange with the coolant and is then introduced into the compressor 59 via the refrigerant connection line 61.

[0173] In other words, the coolant, which is at a higher temperature from cooling the battery module 24, is cooled by heat exchange with the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant inside the heat exchanger 30. The cooled coolant is then returned to the battery module 24 via the battery coolant line 21.

[0174] This means that the coolant can efficiently cool the battery module 24 while the process described above is repeated or continued.

[0175] On the other hand, the remaining refrigerant discharged from the auxiliary condenser 54 flows through the refrigerant line 51 to cool the interior of the vehicle and passes successively through the first expansion valve 55, the evaporator 56, the compressor 59 and the condenser 53.

[0176] Here, the outside air flowing into the HVAC module 52 is cooled by the low-temperature refrigerant flowing into the evaporator 56 as it passes through the evaporator 56.

[0177] In this case, part of the heater 52a, through which the cooled outside air flows, is closed off by the opening and closing flap 52b, so that the outside air does not pass through the heater 52a. Accordingly, the cooled outside air flows directly into the interior of the vehicle and cools the vehicle interior.

[0178] On the other hand, the refrigerant, which has an increased amount of condensate, can be expanded and fed to the evaporator 56 as it successively passes through the condenser 53 and the support condenser 54, thereby allowing the refrigerant to be evaporated to a lower temperature.

[0179] Therefore, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the condenser 53 condenses the refrigerant and the support condenser 54 further condenses the refrigerant, which is advantageous when subcooling the refrigerant.

[0180] Since the subcooled refrigerant in the evaporator 56 can be evaporated at a lower temperature, the temperature of the outside air passing through the evaporator 56 can also be further reduced, which improves the cooling performance and efficiency.

[0181] The refrigerant can cool the interior of the vehicle in the vehicle's cooling mode while the processes described above are repeated or continued, and at the same time the coolant can be cooled by heat exchange as it passes through the heat exchanger 30.

[0182] The low-temperature coolant, cooled in heat exchanger 30, is introduced into battery module 24. Accordingly, battery module 24 can be efficiently cooled by the low-temperature coolant supplied from there.

[0183] In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, operation of the case of utilizing waste heat from the electrical component 15 without operating the air conditioning system 50 in the heating mode of the vehicle is described with reference to Fig. 5 described.

[0184] Fig. Figure 5 shows an operating state diagram for carrying out the heating mode using waste heat from an electrical component in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0185] Referring to Fig. 5 The thermal management system can heat the vehicle interior by using waste heat from the electrical component 15 without operating the air conditioning system 50.

[0186] First, the first water pump 14 in the cooling device 10 is operated to circulate the coolant. In this case, the air conditioning 50 is deactivated.

[0187] Here, branch line 18 and heat exchanger connection line 31 are opened by actuating valve V. Supply line 17 is opened.

[0188] This allows some of the coolant stored in the reservoir 16 to circulate along the coolant line 11 through the open supply line 17.

[0189] Accordingly, on the basis of branch line 18, a section of the coolant line 11, which is connected to the radiator 12, and a section of the coolant line 11, which connects the radiator 12 and the reservoir 16, are closed by actuating the valve V.

[0190] This means that, based on the branch line 18, the section of the coolant line 11, which is connected to the radiator 12, the reservoir 16 and the valve V, can be closed.

[0191] Furthermore, the battery coolant line 21, with the exception of the battery coolant line 21 which is connected to the heat exchanger 30, is / will be closed by actuating the valve V.

[0192] In the present state, the coolant passing through the electrical component 15 can circulate along the open branch line 18 and an open section of the coolant line 11 without passing through the radiator 12 by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0193] Here, the coolant introduced into the valve V via the branch line 18 can be introduced into the heat exchanger 30 along a section of the battery coolant line 21, which connects the heat exchanger 30 and the valve V.

[0194] The coolant passing through the heat exchanger 30 is introduced into the valve V along the open heat exchanger connection line 31. The coolant then circulates through the valve V in the coolant line 11, which is connected to the electrical component 15.

[0195] Meanwhile, the second water pump 22 in the battery cooling device 20 is / will be deactivated.

[0196] This means that the battery coolant line 21, which connects the second water pump 22 and the battery module 24, is closed and the operation of the battery cooling device 20 is deactivated.

[0197] Thus, the coolant passing through the electrical component 15 circulates continuously along the coolant line 11, the branch line 18, an open section of the battery coolant line 21 and the heat exchanger connection line 31, without passing through the radiator 12, and absorbs the waste heat from the electrical component 15, thereby increasing the temperature.

[0198] This means that the coolant introduced from branch line 18 to valve V through the fourth connection P4 is introduced through the fifth connection P5 into the battery coolant line 21 which is connected to the radiator.

[0199] The coolant passing through the heat exchanger 30 is then introduced into the third port P3 of the first valve V1 along the open heat exchanger connection line 31. The coolant introduced into the third port P3 is discharged through the second port P2, which is connected to the third port P3, into the coolant line 11 connected to the first water pump 14.

[0200] If such a process is repeated or continued, the coolant absorbs the waste heat from the electrical component 15 and can increase the temperature.

[0201] The coolant, whose temperature is increased as it passes through the electrical component 15 by the operation of the first water pump 14, is supplied to the heater 52a along the open coolant line 11 without passing through the radiator 12.

[0202] The coolant discharged from the heater 52a is introduced into the valve V along the open coolant line 11 and the open branch line 18.

[0203] The coolant introduced into the valve V is, after passing through the heat exchanger 30 along the open section of the battery coolant line 21, reintroduced into the valve V along the open heat exchanger connection line 31.

[0204] The coolant reintroduced into valve V is supplied to the electrical component 15 via the open coolant line 11.

[0205] This means that the coolant that has passed through the electrical component 15 continues to circulate along the open coolant line 11, the branch line 18, the open section of the battery coolant line 21 and the heat exchanger connection line 31, without passing through the radiator 12, and absorbs the waste heat from the electrical component 15, causing its temperature to rise.

[0206] The coolant with the increased temperature is introduced into the heater 52a along the coolant line 11 without passing through the radiator 12.

[0207] Here, the second coolant heater 43 is operated when the temperature of the coolant circulating in the coolant line 11 is lower than the set temperature, so that the coolant circulating in the coolant line 11 can be heated.

[0208] If, on the other hand, the air heater 45 is used instead of the second coolant heater 43, the air heater 45 can be operated selectively depending on the temperature of the outside air passing through the heater 52a.

[0209] This means that the air heater 45 can be operated when the temperature of the outside air passing through the heater 52a is lower than a set temperature, thereby heating the outside air flowing into the interior of the vehicle.

[0210] The air heater 45 is operated when the temperature of the outside air, which has completed the heat exchange with the high-temperature refrigerant while passing through the heater 52a, is lower than a predetermined temperature or a set heating temperature.

[0211] When the air heater 45 is operated, the outside air can be heated as it passes through the air heater 45 in order to be introduced into the vehicle interior in a state of increased temperature.

[0212] Meanwhile, the high-temperature coolant supplied to the heater 52a undergoes a heat exchange with the outside air and is then introduced into the coolant line 11.

[0213] The coolant is then introduced into the valve V along the open branch line 18 without passing through the radiator 12.

[0214] The coolant introduced into the valve V passes successively through the open battery coolant line 21, the heat exchanger 30 and the heat exchanger connection line 31 and is introduced back into the coolant line 11 connected to the electrical component 15.

[0215] Meanwhile, the opening and closing flap 52b is / will be opened, so that the outside air flowing into the HVAC module 52 passes through the heater 52a.

[0216] Therefore, the outside air flowing in from the outside enters the interior at an uncooled temperature when it passes through the evaporator 56, which is not supplied with refrigerant. As the outside air flows through the heater 52a, it is heated to a high temperature before being introduced into the vehicle's interior, thus heating the vehicle's interior.

[0217] In other words, according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to recover the waste heat generated in the electrical component 15 while the above-described process is repeated or continued in order to use the waste heat for indoor heating, thereby reducing energy consumption and improving the overall efficiency of the heating system.

[0218] In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, with reference to Fig. 6 an operation is described in the case in which the waste heat of the electrical component 15 is used without the air conditioning 50 being operated and the cooling of the electrical component 15 is required in the heating mode of the vehicle.

[0219] Fig. Figure 6 shows an operating state diagram for cooling an electrical component during the execution of the heating mode using waste heat from the electrical component in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0220] Referring to Fig. 6 The thermal management system heats the vehicle interior by utilizing waste heat from the electrical component 15 without operating the air conditioning system 50, and simultaneously cools the electrical component 15.

[0221] First, the first water pump 14 is operated in the cooling device 10 to circulate the coolant.

[0222] Here, the branch line 18 and the heat exchanger connection line 31 are closed by actuating the valve V and the supply line 17 is opened.

[0223] This allows some of the coolant stored in the reservoir 16 to circulate along the coolant line 11 through the open supply line 17.

[0224] Accordingly, the coolant introduced from the reservoir 16 through the first connection P1 into the first valve V1 can be introduced into the coolant line 11 through the second connection P2.

[0225] The battery coolant line 21, which connects the second water pump 22 to the battery module 24, is / will be closed, and the operation of the battery cooling device 20 is / will be deactivated.

[0226] In the present state, the coolant is supplied to the heater 52a along the coolant line 11 at a temperature which is increased as it passes through the electrical component 15 by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0227] The coolant output from heater 52a is introduced into coolant line 11.

[0228] The coolant introduced into the coolant line 11 is then cooled as it passes through the radiator 12 and is reintroduced into the electrical component 15 along the coolant line 11 by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0229] This means that the coolant passing through the electrical component 15 absorbs the waste heat from the electrical component 15, thus increasing its temperature, and is supplied to the heater 52a via the coolant line 11.

[0230] In this operation, the coolant, whose temperature is increased by the absorption of waste heat from the electrical component 15, circulates through the heater 52a. The coolant is then cooled by the operation of the first water pump 14 as it passes through the radiator 12.

[0231] The fully cooled coolant can recover waste heat as it flows through the electrical component 15, while simultaneously cooling the electrical component 15 efficiently.

[0232] Meanwhile, the coolant, whose temperature is increased as it passes through the electrical component 15, is circulated along the coolant line 11 to the heater 52a by the operation of the first water pump 14.

[0233] Here, the second coolant heater 43 is operated when the temperature of the coolant circulating in the coolant line 11 is lower than the set temperature, so that the coolant circulating in the coolant line 11 can be heated.

[0234] If, on the other hand, the air heater 45 is used instead of the second coolant heater 43, the air heater 45 can be operated selectively depending on the temperature of the outside air flowing through the heater 52a.

[0235] This means that the air heater 45 can be operated when the temperature of the outside air passing through the heater 52a is lower than a set temperature, thereby heating the outside air flowing into the interior of the vehicle.

[0236] The air heater 45 is operated when the temperature of the outside air, which has completed the heat exchange with the high-temperature refrigerant while passing through the heater 52a, is lower than a predetermined temperature or a set heating temperature.

[0237] When the air heater 45 is operated, the outside air can be heated as it passes through the air heater 45 in order to be introduced into the vehicle interior in a state of increased temperature.

[0238] Here, the opening and closing flap 52b is opened, so that the outside air flowing into the HVAC module 52 passes through the heater 52a.

[0239] Therefore, the outside air flowing in from the outside enters the interior at an uncooled temperature when it passes through the evaporator 56, which is not supplied with refrigerant. As it passes through the heater 52a, the introduced outside air is heated to a high temperature before being introduced into the vehicle's interior, thus heating the vehicle's interior.

[0240] On the other hand, the coolant output by the heater 52a is cooled by the operation of the first water pump 14 as it passes through the radiator 12 along the coolant line 11.

[0241] Afterwards, the cooled coolant can recover the waste heat from the electrical component 15 as it passes through the electrical component 15, and can simultaneously cool the electrical component 15.

[0242] This allows the coolant cooled in the cooler 12 to be supplied to the electrical component 15, thus preventing overheating of the electrical component 15.

[0243] In other words, according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to recover the waste heat generated in the electrical component 15 while the above-described process is repeated or continued, and to use the waste heat for indoor heating, thereby reducing energy consumption and improving the overall efficiency of the heating system.

[0244] Furthermore, in numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, when the coolant that has passed through the heater 52a is cooled in the cooler 12 and supplied to the electrical component 15, the coolant can recover waste heat while the electrical component 15 and the electrical component 15 are efficiently cooled at the same time.

[0245] A mode of operation in the case of heating battery module 24 is described in relation to Fig. 7 described.

[0246] Fig. Figure 7 shows an operating state diagram for heating a battery module in a thermal management system for a vehicle according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0247] Referring to Fig. 7. The cooling device 10 and the air conditioning 50 are deactivated.

[0248] The branch line 18 and the heat exchanger connection line 31 are / will be closed by actuating the valve V.

[0249] Furthermore, the battery coolant line 21 is not connected to the coolant line 11 by the actuation of the valve V.

[0250] This means that in the battery cooling device 20 the battery coolant line 21 is / will be opened, which connects the second water pump 22, the battery module 24 and the first coolant heater 26.

[0251] In the present state, the coolant is circulated along the battery coolant line 21 by the operation of the second water pump 22.

[0252] This means that the coolant passing through the heat exchanger 30 is introduced into the fifth port P5 of the valve V and then discharged through the sixth port P6 into the battery coolant line 21, which is connected to the second water pump 22.

[0253] Here, the first coolant heater 26 is operated to heat the coolant supplied to the battery module 24 through the open battery coolant line 21.

[0254] Accordingly, the temperature of the coolant circulating in the battery coolant line 21 increases as it passes through the first coolant heater 26. Consequently, the coolant, which has experienced an increased temperature while passing through the first coolant heater 26, can be supplied to the battery module 24 to raise the temperature of the battery module 24.

[0255] As a result, according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to rapidly increase the temperature of the battery module 24 while the above-described process is repeated or continued in order to efficiently control the temperature of the battery module 24.

[0256] Therefore, if the thermal management system for the vehicle is used according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention as described above, the temperature of the battery module 24 can be adjusted depending on the operating mode of the vehicle by using a heat exchanger 30 to carry out the heat exchange between the coolant and the refrigerant, and the interior of the vehicle can be heated by using the coolant, thus simplifying the entire system.

[0257] According to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is also possible to improve the heating efficiency by recovering the waste heat from the electrical component 15 and using it for interior (room) heating.

[0258] Furthermore, according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to optimize the performance of the battery module 24 by efficiently controlling the temperature of the battery module 24 and to increase the overall driving range of the vehicle by efficiently managing the battery module 24.

[0259] The present invention also improves the condensation or evaporation performance of the refrigerant through the use of the condenser 53 and the support condenser 54, thereby improving the cooling performance and reducing the power consumption of the compressor 59.

[0260] Furthermore, the entire system can be simplified to reduce manufacturing costs and weight, and to improve space utilization.

[0261] In numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a control device is connected to at least one of the components of the thermal management system in order to control its operation.

[0262] Furthermore, the term refers to a control device such as, for example, "control device", "control unit", "control module", etc., a hardware device with a memory and a processor configured to perform one or more steps that are interpreted as an algorithmic structure. The memory stores algorithmic steps, and the processor executes the algorithmic steps to carry out one or more processes of an operation according to numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention.The control device according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention can be implemented by a non-volatile memory configured to store algorithms for controlling the operation of numerous components of a vehicle or data about software instructions for executing the algorithms, and a processor configured to perform the operation described above using the data stored in the memory. The memory and the processor can be separate chips. Alternatively, the memory and the processor can be integrated into a single chip. The processor can be implemented as one or more processors.

[0263] The control device may at least be a microprocessor operated by a predetermined program which may contain a series of instructions for carrying out the process contained in the aforementioned numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0264] The aforementioned invention can also be implemented as computer-readable code on a computer-readable recording medium. A computer-readable recording medium is any data storage device capable of storing data that can subsequently be read by a computer system. Examples of computer-readable recording media include: hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), silicon disk drives (SDDs), read-only memory (ROMs), random-access memory (RAMs), CD-ROMs, magnetic tapes, floppy disks, optical data storage devices, etc., as well as implementations using carrier waves (e.g., for transmission over the internet).

[0265] In numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention, each of the above-described processes can be performed by a control device, and the control device can be provided by a plurality of control devices or by an integrated single control device.

[0266] For the sake of clarity and to precisely define the attached claims, the terms "above...", "below...", "inner...", "outer...", "above", "below", "upwards", "downwards", "front...", "behind...", "front", "backwards", "inside", "outside", "within", "outside", "inwards / inwards", "outwards / outwards", "forwards / towards the front", and "backwards / backwards" are used to describe features of the exemplary embodiments with reference to the positions of these features as shown in the drawings. It is further understood that the term "connect" or its derivatives refer to both direct and indirect connections.

Claims

[1] A thermal management system for a vehicle, wherein the thermal management system comprises: a cooling device (10) comprising a radiator (12), a first pump (14), a valve (V) and a reservoir (16) connected by a coolant line (11), and configured to circulate a coolant in the coolant line (11) to cool at least one electrical component (15) provided in the coolant line (11), a battery cooling device (20) comprising a battery coolant line (21) connected to the coolant line (11) via the valve (V), a second pump (22) and a battery module (24) connected to the battery coolant line (21) to circulate the coolant into the battery module (24), a heat exchanger (30) provided in the battery coolant line (21) between the battery module (24) and the valve (V) and connected to a refrigerant line (51) of an air conditioning system (50) via a refrigerant connection line (61) to adjust the temperature of the coolant by performing a heat exchange between the coolant circulating in the battery coolant line (21) and a refrigerant selectively supplied by the air conditioning system (50), a heater (52a) provided in the coolant line (11) between the at least one electrical component (15) and the radiator (12) to heat a vehicle interior using the coolant supplied by the cooling device (10), a branch line (18) with a first end section connected to the coolant line (11) between the heater (52a) and the radiator (12), and a second end section connected to the valve (V), and a heat exchanger connection line (31) that connects the heat exchanger (30) and the valve (V) separately from the battery coolant line (21), wherein the reservoir (16) is provided in the coolant line (11) between the radiator (12) and the valve (V) and is connected to the coolant line (11) connecting the valve (V) and the first pump (14) by a supply line (17) bypassing the valve (V), and wherein a condenser (53) provided in the air conditioning system (50) is connected to the coolant line (11) to allow the coolant circulating through the cooling device (10) to pass through it. [2] The thermal management system according to claim 1, wherein the valve (V) comprises: a first connection (P1) which is connected to the coolant line (11) which is connected to the reservoir (16), a second connection (P2) which is connected to the coolant line (11) which is connected to the first pump (14), a third connection (P3) which is connected to the heat exchanger connection line (31), a fourth connection (P4) which is connected to the branch line (18), a fifth connection (P5) which is connected to the battery coolant line (21) which is connected to the heat exchanger (30), and a sixth connection (P6) which is connected to the battery coolant line (21) which is connected to the second pump (22). [3] Thermal management system according to claim 2, wherein the valve (V) is configured to be actuated to discharge the coolant through a port adjacent to another port into which coolant is introduced under the first port (P1), the second port (P2), the third port (P3), the fourth port (P4), the fifth port (P5) and the sixth port (P6). [4] Thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the air conditioning system (50) comprises: a heating, ventilation and air conditioning module (52) with an evaporator (56) connected to the refrigerant line (51) and a flap (52b) designed to control outside air passing through the evaporator (56), which is to be selectively introduced into the heater (52a) depending on a cooling mode, a heating mode and a heating and dehumidifying mode of the vehicle, a condenser (53) which is provided in the refrigerant line (51) and in the coolant line (11) between the radiator (12) and the heater (52a) to allow a coolant to circulate into the condenser (53) in order to carry out a heat exchange between the coolant and a refrigerant supplied through the refrigerant line (51), a compressor (59) which is connected via the refrigerant line (51) between the evaporator (56) and the condenser (53), a support condenser (54) which is provided in the refrigerant line (51) between the condenser (53) and the evaporator (56), a first expansion valve (55) provided in the refrigerant line (51) between the support condenser (54) and the evaporator (56), and a second expansion valve (63) which is provided in the refrigerant connection line (61). [5] Thermal management system according to claim 4, wherein the second expansion valve (63) expands the refrigerant introduced through the refrigerant connection line (61) in order to allow the refrigerant to flow to the heat exchanger (30) when the battery module (24) is cooled by the refrigerant. [6] Thermal management system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein a first end section of the refrigerant connection line (61) is connected to the refrigerant line (51) between the support condenser (54) and the first expansion valve (55), and wherein a second end section of the refrigerant connection line (61) is connected to the refrigerant line (51) between the evaporator (56) and the compressor (59). [7] Thermal management system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein both the heat exchanger (30) and the condenser (53) are water-cooled heat exchangers and the support condenser (54) is an air-cooled heat exchanger. [8] Thermal management system according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the heating, ventilation and air conditioning module (52) further comprises an air heater (45) provided on a side opposite the evaporator (56) with respect to the heater (52a), wherein the heater (52a) is arranged between the air heater (45) and the evaporator (56) to selectively heat the outside air passing through the heater (52a). [9] Thermal management system according to claim 8, wherein the air heater (45) is configured to be operated to increase the temperature of the outside air flowing through the heater (52a) when the temperature of a coolant supplied to the heater (52a) is lower than a setpoint temperature for the indoor heating. [10] Thermal management system according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein, when the battery module (24) is cooled in the vehicle's cooling mode, the coolant is circulated in the cooling device (10) by the operation of the first pump (14) in the coolant line (11) and the supply line (17) is open, the branch line (18) and the heat exchanger connection line (31) are closed by actuating the valve (V), The coolant line (11) and the battery coolant line (21) form independent closed circuits by actuating the valve (V), in the battery cooling device (20) the coolant which passes through the heat exchanger (30) is supplied to the battery module (24) by the operation of the second pump (22) along the battery coolant line (21), in the air conditioning system (50) the refrigerant line (51) which connects the auxiliary condenser (54) and the evaporator (56) is opened by actuating the first expansion valve (55), the refrigerant connection line (61) is opened by actuating the second expansion valve (63), and The first and second expansion valves (55, 63) each expand the refrigerant supplied to the refrigerant line (51) and the refrigerant connection line (61) and supply the expanded refrigerant to the evaporator (56) and the heat exchanger (30). [11] Thermal management system according to claim 10, wherein the condenser (53) condenses the refrigerant by heat exchange with the coolant and the support condenser (54) additionally condenses the refrigerant introduced by the condenser (53) by heat exchange with outside air. [12] Thermal management system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, when cooling the at least one electrical component (15) and the battery module (24) using the coolant, the branch line (18) is closed by actuating the valve (V), the heat exchanger connection line (31) is opened by actuating the valve (V) and the supply line (17) is open, a section of the battery coolant line (21) connecting the heat exchanger (30) and the valve (V) is closed by actuating the valve (V), the coolant line (11), which connects the reservoir (16) and the valve (V), is connected to the battery coolant line (21) by actuating the valve (V), the coolant cooled in the radiator (12) flows through the battery module (24) along the battery coolant line (21) from the valve (V) by the operation of the first and second pumps (14, 22), and the coolant passing through the battery module (24) is directed from the heat exchanger (30) along the open heat exchanger connection line (31) to the valve (V) and is then supplied to the at least one electrical component (15) while flowing along the coolant line (11) connected to the first pump (14). [13] Thermal management system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, when the waste heat from at least one electrical component (15) is used in a heating mode of the vehicle, the branch line (18) and the heat exchanger connection line (31) are opened by actuating the valve (V), in the cooling device (10), on the basis of the branch line (18), the coolant line (11) which is connected to the radiator (12), the reservoir (16) and the valve (V) are closed, the supply line (17) is open, the battery coolant line (21) with the exception of the battery coolant line (21) which is connected to the heat exchanger (30), is closed by actuating the valve (V), the coolant, at a temperature increased during its passage through at least one electrical component (15) by the operation of the first pump (14), is supplied to the heater (52a) along the open coolant line (11) without passing through the radiator (12), The coolant discharged from the heater (52a) is introduced into the valve (V) along the open coolant line (11) and the open branch line (18), the coolant introduced into the valve (V) is reintroduced into the valve (V) along the open heat exchanger connection line (31) after passing through the heat exchanger (30) along the open section of the battery coolant line (21), and The coolant reintroduced into the valve (V) flows along the open coolant line (11) to at least one electrical component (15). [14] Thermal management system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein if, in a heating mode of the vehicle, the waste heat of at least one electrical component (15) is used and cooling of at least one electrical component (15) is required, the branch line (18) and the heat exchanger connection line (31) are closed by actuating the valve (V), in the cooling device (10) the coolant line (11) is open, the supply line (17) is open, the battery cooling device (20) is deactivated, the coolant is supplied to the heater (52a) along the coolant line (11) at a temperature which is increased during its passage through at least one electrical component (15) by the operation of the first pump (14), and the coolant output by the heater (52a) is cooled as it flows through the radiator (12) along the coolant line (11) by the operation of the first pump (14), and then recovers waste heat from the at least one electrical component (15) as it flows through the at least one electrical component (15) and simultaneously cools the at least one electrical component (15). [15] Thermal management system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the valve (V) is a 6-way valve. [16] Thermal management system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one electrical component (15) comprises a motor or an electrical power control unit or an inverter or an autonomous drive controller or a vehicle charger. [17] Thermal management system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the supply line (17) is connected to the coolant line (11) when the coolant is circulated into the coolant line (11) by the operation of the first pump (14). [18] Thermal management system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the battery cooling device (20) further comprises a first coolant heater (26) provided in the battery coolant line (21) between the battery module (24) and the heat exchanger (30). [19] Thermal management system according to claim 18, wherein the first coolant heater (26) is operated to heat the coolant supplied to the battery module (24) along the battery coolant line (21) when the battery module (24) is heated. [20] Thermal management system according to claim 18 or 19, wherein when the battery module (24) is heated, the battery coolant line (21) is not connected to the coolant line (11) by actuating the valve (V), the branch line (18) and the heat exchanger connection line (31) is closed by actuating the valve (V), the coolant is circulated along the battery coolant line (21) by the operation of the second pump (22), and the first coolant heater (26) is operated to heat a coolant that is supplied to the battery module (24) along the battery coolant line (21).

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