Thermal management system

Abstract

This invention provides a thermal management system that enables efficient heating of the energy storage device while allowing for the effective utilization of heat generated from the drive unit. [Solution] The thermal management system 1 includes a battery 173 (energy storage device) that exchanges heat with the flow path 170b (first flow path), a PCU 133 (drive device) that exchanges heat with the flow path 130b (second flow path), a low-temperature radiator 122 (radiator) in the flow path 130a (third flow path), a chiller 160 (chiller device) in the flow path 170a (fourth flow path), and five-way valves 180 and 190 (switching devices). In the thermal management system 1, when the temperature of the battery 173 rises, the five-way valves 180 and 190 are controlled so that the first closed circuit 10 (first connecting flow path) connected to the flow path 170b and the flow path 130b, and the second closed circuit 20 (second connecting flow path) connected to the flow path 130a and the flow path 170a are disconnected from each other and operate independently.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a thermal management system.

Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-272395 (Patent Document 1) discloses an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a power storage device (battery), an inverter, a motor, and a control device. The power storage device is connected to the inverter. The inverter is connected to the motor. The control device controls the current of the power storage device by switching control of the inverter. Thereby, the control device controls the heat generated due to the power loss in the internal resistance of the power storage device. As a result, the control device can execute a temperature increase control (self-temperature increase of the power storage device) for increasing the temperature of the power storage device by the current of the power storage device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In electrical equipment such as electric vehicles, it may be important to effectively utilize the heat from a drive device including an inverter and a motor. Furthermore, it is desired to efficiently execute the temperature increase of the power storage device. That is, it is desired to efficiently execute the temperature increase of the power storage device while enabling the effective use of the heat generated from the drive device.

[0005] This disclosure has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a thermal management system capable of efficiently executing the temperature increase of a power storage device while enabling the effective use of the heat generated from a drive device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A thermal management system according to one aspect of this disclosure is a thermal management system provided in electrical equipment, comprising: a first channel, a second channel, a third channel, and a fourth channel through which a heat transfer medium can flow; an energy storage device that exchanges heat with the heat transfer medium in the first channel; a drive device that exchanges heat with the heat transfer medium in the second channel and is capable of generating driving force; a radiator provided in the third channel; a chiller device provided in the fourth channel; and a switching device that can switch the connection state between the first channel, the second channel, the third channel, and the fourth channel. A first connecting channel is formed by connecting the first channel and the second channel, and a second connecting channel is formed by connecting the third channel and the fourth channel, and the channel circuit in which the first and second connecting channels are separated from each other and independent is defined as a heating circuit. In the thermal management system, the switching device forms the heating circuit when the energy storage device is heated. Furthermore, the statement that the first and second connecting channels are separated and independent means that the heat transfer medium flowing through one of the first and second connecting channels does not flow through the other.

[0007] In a thermal management system relating to one aspect of this disclosure, as described above, when the energy storage device is heated, a first connecting channel is formed connecting the first channel and the second channel, and a second connecting channel is formed connecting the third channel and the fourth channel, and the first and second connecting channels are separated from each other and operate independently. This allows the energy storage device to be heated using the heat generated in the drive unit. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress the loss of heat generated in the drive unit to devices unrelated to the heating of the energy storage device, such as radiators and chillers. As a result, the heating of the energy storage device can be efficiently carried out while making effective use of the heat generated from the drive unit.

[0008] In the thermal management system relating to the first aspect described above, preferably, the electrical equipment is an electric vehicle. Furthermore, the energy storage device is heated when the electric vehicle's running system is started. With this configuration, the temperature of the energy storage device can be easily raised when the electric vehicle starts running. As a result, the running performance of the electric vehicle can be easily maintained above a certain level when the electric vehicle starts running.

[0009] In the thermal management system relating to the first aspect described above, preferably, the energy storage device is configured to be capable of external charging, where it is charged by charging power supplied from an external charging facility for the electrical equipment. Furthermore, at the start of external charging, the energy storage device is heated to a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature. With this configuration, the temperature of the energy storage device can be easily raised at the start of external charging. As a result, the charging speed and charging efficiency can be easily set to a certain level or higher at the start of external charging. Note that the start of external charging is the timing when charging power begins to be supplied to the energy storage device.

[0010] The thermal management system relating to the first aspect described above preferably includes a first pump provided in the second flow path for circulating the heat transfer medium. Furthermore, as the energy storage device heats up, the output of the first pump is increased over time. With this configuration, the output of the first pump can be increased only after the heat transfer medium in the second flow path has reached a relatively high temperature over time. As a result, cooling of the energy storage device by the heat transfer medium can be suppressed.

[0011] The thermal management system relating to the first aspect described above preferably includes a first temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the energy storage device and a second temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the second flow path. Furthermore, when the energy storage device is heated, if the value detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than the value detected by the first temperature sensor, the switching device forms a heating circuit. With this configuration, the cooling of the energy storage device by the heat transfer medium in the second flow path can be suppressed more reliably.

[0012] In the thermal management system relating to the first aspect described above, preferably, the electrical equipment is an electric vehicle. The chiller device is configured to exchange heat with an air conditioning circuit that adjusts the room temperature of the electric vehicle. Furthermore, when the energy storage device is heated up and there is a heating request using the air conditioning circuit and the outside air temperature is higher than a predetermined threshold, the switching device forms a heating circuit. With this configuration, heating can be operated using outside air that is hotter than the predetermined threshold.

[0013] In this case, preferably, when the heating circuit is formed and the energy storage device is heated, if the ambient temperature falls below a predetermined threshold, the switching device forms a third connecting channel that connects the first connecting channel and the fourth connecting channel. With this configuration, when the ambient temperature is below a predetermined threshold, instead of using ambient air via the radiator to operate the heating system, the room temperature of the electric vehicle can be adjusted by a chiller using the heat from the drive unit and the energy storage device.

[0014] The thermal management system relating to the first aspect described above preferably includes a second pump provided in the fourth flow path for circulating the heat transfer medium. The electrical equipment is an electric vehicle. The chiller device is configured to exchange heat with an air conditioning circuit that adjusts the room temperature of the electric vehicle. Furthermore, when the energy storage device is heated up in a state where a heating circuit has been formed, the second pump is driven when there is a heating request using the air conditioning circuit. With this configuration, the heat transfer medium can be easily circulated using the second pump in a closed circuit in which the chiller device and the radiator are connected. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to this disclosure, it is possible to efficiently raise the temperature of the energy storage device while enabling the effective utilization of heat generated from the drive device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This figure shows an electric vehicle equipped with a thermal management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows the configuration of the thermal management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows the detailed configuration of the thermal management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows the first communication pattern of the thermal management circuit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows the second communication pattern of the thermal management circuit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the thermal management system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing the first control of step S170 in FIG. 6. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing the second control of step S170 in FIG. 6. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing the configuration of the heat management system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the heat management system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11(A) is a diagram showing the first communication pattern of the heat management circuit according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11(B) is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the heat management circuit corresponding to FIG. 11(A). [Figure 12] FIG. 12(A) is a diagram showing the second communication pattern of the heat management circuit according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12(B) is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the heat management circuit corresponding to FIG. 12(A). [Figure 13] It is a flowchart showing the control of the heat management system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart showing the first control of step S270 in FIG. 13. [Figure 15] It is a flowchart showing the second control of step S270 in FIG. 13. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing the configuration of the heat management system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the heat management system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing the first communication pattern of the heat management circuit according to the third embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing the second communication pattern of the heat management circuit according to the third embodiment. [Figure 20] It is a flowchart showing the control of the heat management system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 21] It is a diagram showing the configuration of the heat management system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 22] It is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the heat management system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 23]Figure 23(A) shows the first communication pattern of the thermal management circuit according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 23(B) shows the schematic configuration of the thermal management circuit corresponding to Figure 23(A). [Figure 24] Figure 24(A) shows the second communication pattern of the thermal management circuit according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 24(B) shows the schematic configuration of the thermal management circuit corresponding to Figure 24(A). [Figure 25] This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the thermal management system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 26] This is a flowchart illustrating the control of a thermal management system using modified examples of the first to fourth embodiments. [Figure 27] Figure 27(A) shows the configuration of a thermal management circuit according to the first modified example of the fourth embodiment. Figure 27(B) shows a schematic configuration of the thermal management circuit corresponding to Figure 27(A). [Figure 28] This figure shows the configuration of a thermal management circuit according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 29] This figure shows the configuration of a thermal management circuit according to a modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 30] This figure shows the configuration of a thermal management circuit according to a modified example of the third embodiment. [Figure 31] This figure shows the configuration of the thermal management circuit according to a second modification of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 32] This diagram shows the circuit configuration including the battery, converter, inverter, and motor. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0018] The following description will use an example of a configuration in which the thermal management system according to this disclosure is installed in an electric vehicle 1a (see Figure 1). The electric vehicle 1a is preferably a vehicle equipped with a battery 173 for driving, and is, for example, an electric vehicle (BEV: Battery Electric Vehicle). The electric vehicle 1a may also be a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV: Hybrid Electric Vehicle), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV: Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV: Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle). However, the use of the thermal management system according to this disclosure is not limited to vehicles. Note that the electric vehicle 1a is an example of "electrical equipment" in this disclosure.

[0019] [First Embodiment] <Overall Structure> Figure 2 shows an example of the overall configuration of a thermal management system 1 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. The thermal management system 1 comprises a thermal management circuit 100, an electronic control unit (ECU) 500, a human-machine interface (HMI) 600, and an ambient temperature sensor 700.

[0020] The thermal management circuit 100 is configured to allow a heat transfer medium to flow through it. The thermal management circuit 100 includes, for example, a high-temperature circuit 110, a radiator 120, a low-temperature circuit 130, a condenser 140, a refrigeration cycle 150, a chiller 160, a battery circuit 170, a five-way valve 180, and a five-way valve 190. The five-way valves 180 and 190 are examples of the "switching device" of this disclosure. The chiller 160 is an example of the "chiller device" of this disclosure.

[0021] The high-temperature circuit 110 includes, for example, a water pump (W / P) 111, an electric heater 112, a three-way valve 113, a heater core 114, and a reservoir tank (R / T) 115. The heater core 114 is an example of the "air conditioning circuit" in this disclosure.

[0022] Radiator 120 is connected to (i.e., shared by) both the high-temperature circuit 110 and the low-temperature circuit 130. Radiator 120 includes a high-temperature (HT) radiator 121 and a low-temperature (LT) radiator 122 (see Figure 3 for both). In the low-temperature radiator 122, heat exchange occurs between the heat transfer medium flowing through the low-temperature circuit 130 and the outside air. Note that the low-temperature radiator 122 is an example of a "radiator" in this disclosure.

[0023] The low-temperature circuit 130 includes, for example, a water pump 131, a smart power unit (SPU) 132, a power control unit (PCU) 133, an oil cooler (O / C) 134, a buck-boost converter 135, a reservoir tank 136, and a heat transfer medium temperature sensor 137. The PCU 133 and the oil cooler 134 are examples of the "drive unit" in this disclosure. The water pump 131 and the heat transfer medium temperature sensor 137 are examples of the "first pump" and "second temperature sensor" in this disclosure, respectively.

[0024] The capacitor 140 is connected to both the high-temperature circuit 110 and the refrigeration cycle 150.

[0025] The refrigeration cycle 150 includes, for example, a compressor 151, an expansion valve 152, an evaporator 153, an evaporation pressure regulator (EPR) 154, and an expansion valve 155.

[0026] The chiller 160 is connected to both the refrigeration cycle 150 and the battery circuit 170. In the chiller 160, heat exchange occurs between the heat transfer medium flowing through the battery circuit 170 and the medium circulating through the refrigeration cycle 150.

[0027] The battery circuit 170 includes, for example, a water pump 171, an electric heater 172, a battery 173, a bypass path 174, and a battery temperature sensor 175. The water pump 171 and the battery 173 are examples of the "second pump" and "energy storage device" as disclosed herein, respectively. The battery temperature sensor 175 is an example of the "first temperature sensor" as disclosed herein. A ripple heating circuit that raises the temperature of the battery 173 by the ripple component of the current flowing through the battery 173 may be provided in the battery circuit 170 (battery 173).

[0028] Each of the five-way valves 180 and 190 is connected to the low-temperature circuit 130 and the battery circuit 170, respectively. The configuration of the thermal management circuit 100 is explained in detail in Figure 3.

[0029] The ECU 500 controls the thermal management circuit 100. The ECU 500 includes a processor 501, memory 502, storage 503, and interface 504.

[0030] The processor 501 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit). The memory 502 is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage 503 is a rewritable non-volatile memory such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory. The storage 503 stores a system program including the OS (Operating System) and a control program including computer-readable code necessary for control calculations. The processor 501 performs various processes by reading the system program and the control program, loading them into the memory 502, and executing them. The interface 504 controls communication between the ECU 500 and the components of the thermal management circuit 100.

[0031] The ECU 500 generates control commands based on sensor values ​​obtained from various sensors included in the thermal management circuit 100 (for example, the battery temperature sensor 175 and the heat transfer medium temperature sensor 137), user operations received by the HMI 600, and outputs the generated control commands to the thermal management circuit 100. The ECU 500 may be divided into multiple ECUs for each function. Also, although Figure 2 shows an example in which the ECU 500 includes one processor 501, the ECU 500 may include multiple processors. The same applies to the memory 502 and storage 503.

[0032] In this specification, "processor" is not limited to processors that execute processing using stored-program methods, but may also include hardwired circuits such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) and FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays). Therefore, the term "processor" can also be interpreted as processing circuitry in which processing is predefined by computer-readable code and / or hardwired circuits.

[0033] The HMI600 consists of a touchscreen display, control panel, console, etc. The HMI600 receives user input to control the thermal management system 1. The HMI600 outputs signals indicating user input to the ECU500.

[0034] The outside air temperature sensor 700 detects the outside air temperature of the electric vehicle 1a. The outside air temperature information detected by the outside air temperature sensor 700 is transmitted to the ECU 500.

[0035] <Configuration of the thermal management circuit> Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the thermal management circuit 100 in the first embodiment. The heat transfer medium (usually hot water) circulating in the high-temperature circuit 110 flows through one or both of the following paths: a first path from water pump 111 - condenser 140 - electric heater 112 - three-way valve 113 - heater core 114 - reservoir tank 115 - water pump 111, and a second path from water pump 111 - condenser 140 - electric heater 112 - three-way valve 113 - high-temperature radiator 121 - reservoir tank 115 - water pump 111.

[0036] The heat transfer medium (coolant) circulating in the low-temperature circuit 130 flows through the following path: water pump 131 - SPU 132 - PCU 133 - oil cooler 134 - step-up / step-down converter 135 - five-way valve 180 - low-temperature radiator 122 - five-way valve 190 - reservoir tank 136 - water pump 131.

[0037] The water pump 131 circulates the heat transfer medium within the low-temperature circuit 130 according to control commands from the ECU 500. The SPU 132 controls the charging and discharging of the battery 173 according to control commands from the ECU 500. The PCU 133 converts the DC power supplied from the battery 173 into AC power according to control commands from the ECU 500 and supplies that AC power to a motor (not shown) built into the transaxle. The oil cooler 134 circulates the motor's lubricating oil using an electric oil pump (EOP) (not shown). The oil cooler 134 cools the transaxle by heat exchange between the heat transfer medium circulating in the low-temperature circuit 130 and the motor's lubricating oil. The frequency of the AC current flowing from the inverter (not shown) of the PCU 133 to the motor may also be set to the resonant frequency of the circuit including the inverter and the motor.

[0038] The SPU 132, PCU 133, oil cooler 134, and buck-boost converter 135 are cooled by a heat transfer medium circulating in the low-temperature circuit 130. The reservoir tank 136 maintains the pressure and amount of heat transfer medium in the low-temperature circuit 130 by storing a portion of the heat transfer medium in the low-temperature circuit 130. Each of the five-way valves 180 and 190 switches the heat transfer medium path in the low-temperature circuit 130 and the battery circuit 170 according to control commands from the ECU 500. The low-temperature radiator 122 is located near the high-temperature radiator 121 and exchanges heat with the high-temperature radiator 121. Alternatively, the above-mentioned transaxle may be provided in the low-temperature circuit 130 instead of the oil cooler 134.

[0039] The heat transfer medium temperature sensor 137 detects the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the flow path (flow path 130b described later) where the PCU 133 and the like are installed. For example, the heat transfer medium temperature sensor 137 detects the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing between the buck-boost converter 135 and the five-way valve 180 (downstream of the buck-boost converter 135). Alternatively, the heat transfer medium temperature sensor 137 may detect the temperature of the heat transfer medium between the PCU 133 and the oil cooler 134.

[0040] The heat transfer medium (gas-phase or liquid-phase refrigerant) circulating in the refrigeration cycle 150 flows through one or both of the following paths: the first path from compressor 151 to condenser 140 to expansion valve 152 to evaporator 153 to EPR 154 to compressor 151, and the second path from compressor 151 to condenser 140 to expansion valve 155 to chiller 160 to compressor 151.

[0041] The heat transfer medium (coolant) circulating in the battery circuit 170 flows through one or both of the following paths: the first path from water pump 171 - chiller 160 - five-way valve 180 - electric heater 172 - battery 173 - five-way valve 190 - water pump 171, and the second path from water pump 171 - chiller 160 - five-way valve 180 - bypass path 174 - five-way valve 190 - water pump 171.

[0042] The water pump 171 circulates the heat transfer medium within the battery circuit 170 according to control commands from the ECU 500. The chiller 160 cools the heat transfer medium circulating in the battery circuit 170 by heat exchange between the heat transfer medium circulating in the refrigeration cycle 150 and the heat transfer medium circulating in the battery circuit 170. The electric heater 172 heats the heat transfer medium according to control commands from the ECU 500. The battery 173 supplies power for driving to the motor built into the transaxle. The battery 173 may be heated using the electric heater 172 or cooled using the chiller 160. A bypass path 174 is provided so that the heat transfer medium bypasses the electric heater 172 and the battery 173. When the heat transfer medium flows through the bypass path 174, temperature changes in the heat transfer medium due to heat absorption / dissipation between the heat transfer medium and the battery 173 can be suppressed. A battery temperature sensor 175 detects the temperature of the battery 173.

[0043] The five-way valve 180 is provided with five ports P1 to P5. Port P1 is an inlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows in from the chiller 160. Port P2 is an outlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows out toward the electric heater 172 and battery 173 of the battery circuit 170. Port P3 is an inlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows in from the SPU 132, PCU 133, oil cooler 134, and buck-boost converter 135 of the low-temperature circuit 130. Port P4 is an outlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows out toward the bypass path 174 of the battery circuit 170. Port P5 is an outlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows out toward the low-temperature radiator 122.

[0044] The five-way valve 190 is provided with five ports P11 to P15. Port P11 is an outlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows out toward the chiller 160. Port P12 is an inlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows in from the electric heater 172 and battery 173 of the battery circuit 170. Port P13 is an outlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows out toward the SPU 132, PCU 133, oil cooler 134, and buck-boost converter 135 of the low-temperature circuit 130. Port P14 is an inlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows in from the bypass path 174 of the battery circuit 170. Port P15 is an inlet port through which the heat transfer medium flows in from the low-temperature radiator 122.

[0045] As shown in Figure 4, the battery 173 is located in the flow path 170b of the battery circuit 170. The battery 173 exchanges heat with the heat transfer medium in the flow path 170b. The flow path 170b is in thermal contact with the battery 173. The flow path 170b is a flow path connecting port P2 of the five-way valve 180 and port P12 of the five-way valve 190. Note that the flow path 170b is an example of the "first flow path" in this disclosure.

[0046] The low-temperature radiator 122 is provided in the flow path 130a of the low-temperature circuit 130. Flow path 130a is a flow path connecting port P5 of the five-way valve 180 and port P15 of the five-way valve 190. Flow path 130a is an example of the "third flow path" of this disclosure.

[0047] The water pump 131, SPU 132, PCU 133, oil cooler 134, buck-boost converter 135, reservoir tank 136, and heat transfer medium temperature sensor 137 are each located in the flow path 130b of the low-temperature circuit 130. The PCU 133 and oil cooler 134, etc., exchange heat with the heat transfer medium in the flow path 130b. The flow path 130b is in thermal contact with the SPU 132, PCU 133, oil cooler 134, and buck-boost converter 135. The flow path 130b is a flow path connecting port P3 of the five-way valve 180 and port P13 of the five-way valve 190. Note that the flow path 130b is an example of the "second flow path" in this disclosure.

[0048] The chiller 160 is located in the flow path 170a of the battery circuit 170. The flow path 170a is a flow path connecting port P1 of the five-way valve 180 and port P11 of the five-way valve 190. Note that the flow path 170a is an example of the "fourth flow path" of this disclosure.

[0049] <Communication Pattern> Figures 4 and 5 are conceptual diagrams showing the outlines of the first and second communication patterns of the thermal management circuit 100 formed by controlling the five-way valves 180 and 190, respectively. The first communication pattern is an example of the "temperature-boosting circuit" of this disclosure.

[0050] In electric vehicles, since they sometimes lack engines, it may not be possible to heat the components of the electric vehicle using engine waste heat. Therefore, it is sometimes important to effectively utilize the heat generated by the drive system, including the inverter and motor. Furthermore, it is desirable to efficiently raise the temperature of the energy storage device. In other words, it is desirable to efficiently raise the temperature of the energy storage device while enabling the effective utilization of the heat generated by the drive system.

[0051] Therefore, in the first embodiment, when the battery 173 is heated, the ECU 500 forms the first communication pattern shown in Figure 4. In the first communication pattern, the five-way valve 180 forms a path connecting port P1 and port P5, and a path connecting port P2 and port P3.

[0052] In addition, in the first communication pattern, the five-way valve 190 forms a path connecting port P11 and port P15, and a path connecting port P12 and port P13.

[0053] As a result, a first closed circuit 10 is formed by connecting the flow path 170b of the battery circuit 170 and the flow path 130b of the low-temperature circuit 130. In addition, a second closed circuit 20 is formed by connecting the flow path 170a of the battery circuit 170 and the flow path 130a of the low-temperature circuit 130. Thus, the first closed circuit 10 and the second closed circuit 20 are separated from each other and become independent. Note that the first closed circuit 10 and the second closed circuit 20 are examples of the "first connecting flow path" and "second connecting flow path" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0054] When the battery 173 is used in the first communication pattern shown in Figure 4, the heat generated by the battery 173's self-heating is accumulated (stored) in the first closed circuit 10. Furthermore, while the battery 173 is generating its own heat, the PCU 133 and the transaxle (not shown) also generate heat. The heat generated by the PCU 133 and the transaxle is accumulated (stored) in the first closed circuit 10. Therefore, the battery 173 is heated by the heat generated by its own self-heating and the heat generated by the PCU 133 and the transaxle.

[0055] As a result, it becomes possible to efficiently raise the temperature of the battery 173 while making effective use of the heat generated from the drive unit such as the PCU 133.

[0056] In the second communication pattern shown in Figure 5, the five-way valve 180 forms a path connecting port P1 and port P2, and a path connecting port P3 and port P4. In addition, in the second communication pattern, the five-way valve 190 forms a path connecting port P11 and port P14, and a path connecting port P12 and port P13.

[0057] As a result, a third closed circuit 30 is formed in which the flow path 170b of the battery circuit 170, the flow path 130b of the low-temperature circuit 130, and the flow path 170a of the battery circuit 170 are connected. In this case, the low-temperature radiator 122 is disconnected from the battery 173, chiller 160, and PCU 133. Note that the third closed circuit 30 is an example of the "third connecting flow path" in this disclosure.

[0058] <Control method for thermal management circuits> The control method for the thermal management system 1 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 6. Note that the flowchart in Figure 5 is merely an example, and the control methods described in this disclosure are not limited to those shown in Figure 5.

[0059] In step S100, the electric vehicle 1a is started to run (the driving system is activated). Specifically, a start button (not shown) on the electric vehicle 1a is pressed, which drives the PCU 133 and other components, and the PCU 133 and the battery 173 are electrically connected (by an SMR, not shown). As a result, current is supplied from the PCU 133 to the battery 173. The ECU 500 detects that the electric vehicle 1a has started to run by receiving a predetermined internal signal from the electric vehicle 1a. At this point, the flow path 170b of the battery circuit 170 and the flow path 130b of the low-temperature circuit 130 are assumed to be disconnected from each other.

[0060] In step S110, the ECU 500 determines whether the temperature of the battery 173, as detected by the battery temperature sensor 175, is less than 10°C. If the temperature of the battery 173 is less than 10°C (Yes in S110), the process proceeds to step S120. If the temperature of the battery 173 is 10°C or higher (No in S110), the process ends. Note that the threshold in step S110 may be a value other than 10°C.

[0061] In step S120, the ECU 500 determines whether the temperature of the heat transfer medium detected by the heat transfer medium temperature sensor 137 is higher than the temperature of the battery 173 detected by the battery temperature sensor 175. If the temperature of the heat transfer medium is higher than the temperature of the battery 173 (Yes in S120), the process proceeds to step S130. If the temperature of the heat transfer medium is less than or equal to the temperature of the battery 173 (No in S120), the process proceeds to step S140.

[0062] In step S130, the ECU 500 determines whether or not the user of the electric vehicle 1a has requested to activate the heater. If such a request exists (Yes in S130), the process proceeds to step S150. If such a request does not exist (No in S130), the process proceeds to step S160. The ECU 500 may also determine whether such a request exists based on a signal sent to the ECU 500 when the user presses the button to activate the heater.

[0063] In step S140, the ECU 500 controls the heating of the heat transfer medium flowing through the flow path 130b. Specifically, the ECU 500 causes the heat transfer medium to flow for a predetermined time while the PCU 133 and other components are driven. As a result, the heat generated from the PCU 133 and other components raises the temperature of the heat transfer medium. Next, the process returns to step S120.

[0064] In step S150, the ECU 500 determines whether the ambient temperature detected by the ambient temperature sensor 700 is higher than -10°C. If the ambient temperature is higher than -10°C (Yes in S150), the process proceeds to step S160. If the ambient temperature is -10°C or lower (No in S150), the process proceeds to step S161. The threshold of -10°C mentioned above is set based on the fact that the heat transfer medium is cooled to approximately -10°C by expansion by the expansion valve 155. Furthermore, -10°C is an example of a "predetermined threshold" in this disclosure.

[0065] In step S160, the ECU 500 controls the five-way valves 180 and 190 respectively so that the thermal management circuit 100 follows the first communication pattern shown in Figure 4. At this time, if there is a heating request in step S130 (Yes in S130), the water pump 171 may be driven.

[0066] In step S161, the ECU 500 controls each of the five-way valves 180 and 190 so that the heat management circuit 100 assumes the second communication pattern shown in FIG. 5. At this time, even if there is a heating request in step S130 (Yes in S130), if the flow rate of the heat medium (output of the water pump 131) is sufficient, the water pump 171 may be stopped.

[0067] In step S170, the ECU 500 raises the temperature of the battery 173 by continuing the state in which the first communication pattern or the second communication pattern is formed. Details of the processing executed in step S170 will be described later.

[0068] In step S180, the ECU 500 determines whether or not the temperature of the battery 173 detected by the battery temperature sensor 175 is 10°C or higher. If the temperature of the battery 173 is 10°C or higher (Yes in S180), the process proceeds to step S190. If the temperature of the battery 173 is less than 10°C (No in S180), the process returns to step S170. Note that the threshold value in step S180 may be a value other than 10°C as long as it is not less than the threshold value in step S110.

[0069] In step S190, the ECU 500 controls each of the five-way valves 180 and 190 to change the heat management circuit 100 from the first communication pattern shown in FIG. 4 (or the second communication pattern shown in FIG. 5) to another communication pattern (for example, a communication pattern suitable for the running of the electric vehicle 1a). Thereafter, the process ends.

[0070] <Processing in S170> As shown in FIG. 7, the processing in step S170 includes the processing in steps S171 to S173. In step S171, the ECU 500 sets (initial setting) the flow rate (output) of the water pump 131 to a predetermined value. The predetermined value is a relatively low value (for example, about 1 / 4 of the upper limit value) within the range of the flow rate that can be output by the water pump 131. Note that the processing in step S171 is executed only in the first flow.

[0071] In step S172, the ECU 500 determines whether the difference between the temperature of the heat transfer medium detected by the heat transfer medium temperature sensor 137 and the temperature of the battery 173 detected by the battery temperature sensor 175 has exceeded 10°C as time has elapsed since the start of the temperature rise control (temperature of heat transfer medium - temperature of battery 173 > 10°C). If the above difference is greater than 10°C (Yes in S172), the process proceeds to step S173. If the above difference is 10°C or less (No in S172), the process proceeds to step S180 (see Figure 6). Note that the temperature of the heat transfer medium rises more rapidly than the temperature of the battery 173. As a result, during temperature rise control of the battery 173, the above difference gradually increases as time passes.

[0072] In step S173, the ECU 500 increases the flow rate (output) of the water pump 131. For example, the ECU 500 sets the flow rate (output) of the water pump 131 to the upper limit of the range of flow rates that the water pump 131 can output. Therefore, during temperature control of the battery 173, the flow rate (output) of the water pump 131 increases in accordance with the increase in the above difference (the difference between the temperature of the heat transfer medium and the temperature of the battery 173) over time. Next, the process proceeds to step S180 (see Figure 6). Note that if the flow rate (output) of the water pump 131 is already set to the above upper limit in step S173, the flow rate (output) of the water pump 131 is not changed.

[0073] In the above example, the process in step S173 is performed based on the difference between the temperature of the heat transfer medium and the temperature of the battery 173, but the disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the process in step S173 may be performed based on the elapsed time (e.g., 10 minutes) after the process in step S171 has been performed. In other words, in this case, the above difference is not considered.

[0074] Furthermore, although step S173 shows an example in which the flow rate (output) of the water pump 131 is increased to a predetermined value based on the above difference, this disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the ECU 500 may determine the flow rate (output) of the water pump 131 based on the temperature of the heat medium detected by the heat medium temperature sensor 137 and the required flow rate of the heat medium. The ECU 500 may also set the flow rate (output) using a map that shows the relationship between the temperature of the heat medium, the required flow rate of the heat medium, and the flow rate (output) of the water pump 131. This map is stored, for example, in memory 502 (see Figure 2).

[0075] As shown in Figure 8, the process in step S170 includes the processes in steps S174 to S177. In step S174, the ECU 500 determines whether or not the user has requested that the heating be activated. If such a request is made (Yes in S174), the process proceeds to step S175. If such a request is not made (No in S174), the process proceeds to step S180 (see Figure 6).

[0076] In step S175, the ECU 500 drives the water pump 171. This causes the heat transfer medium to circulate through the second closed circuit 20 (see Figure 8(B)). If the water pump 171 is already running, it continues to run.

[0077] In step S176, the ECU 500 determines whether the ambient temperature has decreased and the value detected by the ambient temperature sensor 700 has fallen below -10°C. If the ambient temperature is below -10°C (Yes in S176), the process proceeds to step S177. If the ambient temperature is higher than -10°C (No in S176), the process proceeds to step S180 (see Figure 6).

[0078] In step S177, the ECU 500 controls the five-way valves 180 and 190 such that the connection between flow path 130a and flow path 170a is released, and a third closed circuit 30 (see Figure 5) is formed connecting the first closed circuit 10 and flow path 170a. As a result, the chiller 160, battery 173, and PCU 133 are connected to each other. The low-temperature radiator 122 is also disconnected from the third closed circuit 30 (chiller 160, battery 173, and PCU 133) and becomes independent. If the thermal management circuit 100 is already in the second communication pattern (i.e., has gone through S161), the ECU 500 maintains the thermal management circuit 100 in the second communication pattern.

[0079] Note that either the series of processes in steps S174 and S175, or the series of processes in steps S176 and S177, may be performed by themselves.

[0080] As described above, in the first embodiment, when controlling the temperature rise of the battery 173, the ECU 500 forms a first closed circuit 10 in which the flow path 170b and flow path 130b are connected, and a second closed circuit 20 in which the flow path 170a and flow path 130a are connected, and the first closed circuit 10 and the second closed circuit 20 are separated from each other and made independent. As a result, the battery 173 can be heated up by the heat generated by the battery 173 itself and the heat generated by the PCU 133, etc. As a result, the temperature rise of the battery 173 can be efficiently carried out while making effective use of the heat generated from the PCU 133, etc.

[0081] [Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment described above, a configuration in which five-way valves 180 and 190 are employed was described. However, the configuration of the switching device according to this disclosure is not limited thereto. In the second embodiment, a configuration in which the switching device according to this disclosure is an eight-way valve 280 will be described.

[0082] <Overall Structure> Figure 9 shows an example of the overall configuration of the thermal management system 2 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. The thermal management system 2 differs from the thermal management system 1 according to the first embodiment (see Figure 1) in that it includes a thermal management circuit 200 instead of a thermal management circuit 100 and an ECU 510 instead of an ECU 500.

[0083] The thermal management circuit 200 includes, for example, a chiller circuit 210, a chiller 220, a radiator circuit 230, a refrigeration cycle 240, a condenser 250, a drive unit circuit 260, a battery circuit 270, and a multi-way valve 280. The multi-way valve 280 is an example of a "switching device" as disclosed herein. The chiller 220 and the refrigeration cycle 240 are examples of a "chiller device" and an "air conditioning circuit" as disclosed herein, respectively.

[0084] The chiller circuit 210 includes a water pump (W / P) 211. The chiller 220 is connected to (shared with) both the chiller circuit 210 and the refrigeration cycle 240. Note that the water pump 211 is an example of the "second pump" in this disclosure.

[0085] The radiator circuit 230 includes a radiator 231. The refrigeration cycle 240 includes, for example, a compressor 241, a solenoid valve 242 (see Figure 10), solenoid valves 244A, 244B, 245, 246 (see Figure 10), an evaporator 247, a check valve 248, and an accumulator 249. The condenser 250 includes a water-cooled condenser 251 and an air-cooled condenser 252 (see Figure 10), with the water-cooled condenser 251 connected to both the refrigeration cycle 240 and the radiator circuit 230.

[0086] The drive unit circuit 260 includes, for example, a water pump 261, an SPU 262, a PCU 263, an oil cooler 264, a reservoir tank 265, and a heat transfer medium temperature sensor 266. A transaxle may be provided in the drive unit circuit 260 instead of the oil cooler 264. Alternatively, the PCU 263 and the oil cooler 264 (or transaxle) may be combined into an e-axle. The PCU 263 and oil cooler 264 are examples of the "drive device" in this disclosure. The heat transfer medium temperature sensor 266 and the water pump 261 are examples of the "second temperature sensor" and "first pump" in this disclosure, respectively.

[0087] The battery circuit 270 includes, for example, an Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) 271, a battery 272, and a battery temperature sensor 273. The battery 272 is an example of the “energy storage device” in this disclosure. The battery temperature sensor 273 is an example of the “first temperature sensor.”

[0088] The eight-way valve 280 includes eight ports P21 to P28 (see Figure 10) and is connected to the chiller circuit 210, the radiator circuit 230, the drive unit circuit 260, and the battery circuit 270.

[0089] The ECU 510 controls the thermal management circuit 200. The ECU 510 includes a processor 511, memory 512, storage 513, and interface 514.

[0090] <Configuration of the thermal management circuit> Figure 10 shows an example of the configuration of the thermal management circuit 200 in the second embodiment. The heat transfer medium circulating in the chiller circuit 210 flows through the path of eight-way valve 280 (port P23) - water pump 211 - chiller 220 - eight-way valve 280 (port P25).

[0091] The water pump 211 circulates the heat transfer medium within the chiller circuit 210 according to control commands from the ECU 510. The chiller 220 exchanges heat between the heat transfer medium circulating in the chiller circuit 210 and the heat transfer medium circulating in the refrigeration cycle 240. The eight-way valve 280 switches the path to which the chiller circuit 210 is connected according to control commands from the ECU 510. The switching of paths by the eight-way valve 280 will be explained in detail later.

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 10, the heat transfer fluid circulating in the radiator circuit 230 flows through the eight-way valve 280 (port P26) - water-cooled condenser 251 - bypass passage 230b - eight-way valve 280 (port P27). The radiator 231 is located downstream of the grill shutter (not shown) and exchanges heat between the vehicle's outside air and the heat transfer fluid.

[0093] The heat transfer medium (gas-phase or liquid-phase refrigerant) circulating in the refrigeration cycle 240 is connected in two paths: first path: compressor 241 - solenoid valve 244A - air-cooled condenser 252 - check valve 248 - solenoid valve (expansion valve) 245 - evaporator 247 - accumulator 249 - compressor 241; and second path: compressor 241 - solenoid valve 244A - air-cooled condenser 252 - check valve 248 - solenoid valve (expansion valve) 246 - chiller 220 - accumulator 2 The current flows through one of the following paths: 49-compressor 241 (second path), compressor 241-solenoid valve 244B-water-cooled condenser 251-solenoid valve (expansion valve) 245-evaporator 247-accumulator 249-compressor 241 (third path), or compressor 241-solenoid valve 244B-water-cooled condenser 251-solenoid valve 246-chiller 220-accumulator 249-compressor 241 (fourth path).

[0094] Compressor 241 compresses the gaseous refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle 240 according to control commands from ECU 510. Solenoid valve 242 is connected in parallel to compressor 241 and adjusts the amount of gaseous refrigerant flowing into compressor 241 according to control commands from ECU 510. Solenoid valves 244 (244A, 244B) switch whether the gaseous refrigerant discharged from compressor 241 flows into water-cooled condenser 251 or air-cooled condenser 252 according to control commands from ECU 510. Water-cooled condenser 251 exchanges heat between the gaseous refrigerant discharged from compressor 241 and the heat transfer medium flowing through radiator circuit 230. Air-cooled condenser 252 exchanges heat with the air introduced into the passenger compartment to produce warm air. Solenoid valve 245 restricts the flow of liquid-phase refrigerant into evaporator 247 according to control commands from ECU 510. Solenoid valve 246 restricts the inflow of liquid-phase refrigerant into chiller 220 according to control commands from ECU 510. Solenoid valves 245 and 246 also have the function of expanding the liquid-phase refrigerant. Accumulator 249 removes liquid-phase refrigerant from the gas-liquid mixture, preventing liquid-phase refrigerant from being drawn into compressor 241 if it is not completely vaporized by evaporator 247.

[0095] The heat transfer medium (coolant) circulating in the drive unit circuit 260 flows through the following path: eight-way valve 280 (port P28) - reservoir tank 265 - water pump 261 - SPU 262 - PCU 263 - oil cooler 264 - eight-way valve 280 (port P22).

[0096] The water pump 261 circulates the heat transfer medium within the drive unit circuit 260 according to control commands from the ECU 510. The SPU 262 controls the charging and discharging of the battery 272 according to control commands from the ECU 510. The PCU 263 converts the DC power supplied from the battery 272 into AC power according to control commands from the ECU 500, and supplies that AC power to a motor (not shown) built into the transaxle. The oil cooler 264 cools the transaxle by heat exchange between the heat transfer medium circulating in the drive unit circuit 260 and the motor's lubricating oil. Alternatively, heat exchange may occur between the heat generated by supplying power to the stator without rotating the motor's rotor and the heat transfer medium circulating in the drive unit circuit 260.

[0097] The SPU262, PCU263, and oil cooler264 are cooled by a heat transfer medium circulating through the drive unit circuit260. The reservoir tank265 maintains the pressure and volume of the heat transfer medium in the drive unit circuit260 by storing a portion of the heat transfer medium in the drive unit circuit260 (heat transfer medium that overflows as the pressure rises).

[0098] The heat transfer medium temperature sensor 266 detects the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the flow path (flow path 260a described later) where the PCU 263 and the like are installed. For example, the heat transfer medium temperature sensor 266 detects the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing between the oil cooler 264 and the eight-way valve 280 (downstream of the oil cooler 264). Alternatively, the heat transfer medium temperature sensor 266 may detect the temperature of the heat transfer medium between the PCU 263 and the oil cooler 264.

[0099] The heat transfer medium (coolant) circulating in the battery circuit 270 flows through the path of eight-way valve 280 (port P21) - ADAS 271 - battery 272 - eight-way valve 280 (port P24).

[0100] ADAS271 includes, for example, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Auto Speed ​​Limiter (ASL), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Pre-Crash Safety (PCS), and Lane Departure Alert (LDA). The battery circuit 270 may also include an Autonomous Driving System (ADS) in addition to ADAS271. The battery 272 supplies power for driving to the motor built into the transaxle. The battery temperature sensor 273 detects the temperature of the battery 272.

[0101] As shown in Figure 11, the chiller 220 is located in the flow path 210a (see Figure 11(B)) of the chiller circuit 210. The flow path 210a is a flow path connecting port P23 and port P25 of the eight-way valve 280. Note that the flow path 210a is an example of the "fourth flow path" of this disclosure.

[0102] The radiator 231 is located in the flow path 230a (see Figure 11(B)) of the radiator circuit 230. The flow path 230a also includes a bypass path 230b. The bypass path 230b is provided to connect the portion between the water-cooled condenser 251 and the radiator 231 to the eight-way valve 280. When the heat transfer fluid flows through the bypass path 230b, the heat transfer fluid does not flow through the radiator 231. Conversely, when the heat transfer fluid flows through the radiator 231, the heat transfer fluid does not flow through the bypass path 230b. Note that flow path 230a is an example of the "third flow path" in this disclosure.

[0103] The water pump 261, SPU 262, PCU 263, oil cooler 264, and reservoir tank 265 (only PCU 263 is shown in Figure 11 as a representative) are located in the flow path 260a of the drive unit circuit 260 (see Figure 11(B)). The flow path 260a is a flow path connecting port P28 and port P22 of the eight-way valve 280. Note that the flow path 260a is an example of the "second flow path" of this disclosure.

[0104] The battery 272 is located in the flow path 270a of the battery circuit 270 (see Figure 11(B)). The flow path 270a is a flow path connecting port P21 and port P24 of the eight-way valve 280. Note that the flow path 270a is an example of the "first flow path" in this disclosure.

[0105] <Communication Pattern> Figures 11 and 12 are conceptual diagrams illustrating the outlines of the first and second communication patterns using the eight-way valve 280, respectively. The first communication pattern is an example of the "temperature-boosting circuit" described herein.

[0106] In the first communication pattern (see Figure 11), a path is formed connecting port P22 and port P21 by the internal flow path 281 of the eight-way valve 280. In the first communication pattern, a path is formed connecting port P24 and port P28 by the internal flow path 282 of the eight-way valve 280. In the first communication pattern, a path is formed connecting port P27 and port P23 by the internal flow path 283 of the eight-way valve 280. In the first communication pattern, a path is formed connecting port P25 and port P26 by the internal flow path 284 of the eight-way valve 280. In the first communication pattern, the radiator 231 and port P27 of the eight-way valve 280 are connected by flow path 230a.

[0107] As a result, the flow path 260a, where the PCU 263 and the like are located, and the flow path 270a, where the battery 272 is located, are connected via the eight-way valve 280. Consequently, the heat transfer medium flows through the first closed circuit 11 of water pump 261-PCU 263-eight-way valve 280-battery 272-eight-way valve 280-water pump 261. Note that the first closed circuit 11 is an example of the "first connecting flow path" in this disclosure.

[0108] Furthermore, the flow path 210a where the chiller 220 is installed and the flow path 230a of the radiator circuit 230 are connected via the eight-way valve 280. As a result, the heat transfer medium flows through the second closed circuit 21 of water pump 211 - chiller 220 - eight-way valve 280 - water cooling condenser 251 - radiator 231 - eight-way valve 280 - water pump 211. Note that the second closed circuit 21 is an example of the "second connecting flow path" in this disclosure.

[0109] In the example shown in Figure 11, the first closed circuit 11 and the second closed circuit 21 are disconnected and independent of each other.

[0110] Here, as shown in Figure 11(A), the eight-way valve 280 has a circular shape when viewed perpendicular to the plane of the paper. The eight-way valve 280 is configured to be rotatable clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0111] Figure 12(A) shows a second communication pattern when the eight-way valve 280 is rotated counterclockwise by a predetermined angle (for example, about 20 degrees) from the state shown in Figure 11(A). In this case, the internal flow path 281 of the eight-way valve 280 forms a path connecting port P24 and port P28. The internal flow path 282 of the eight-way valve 280 forms a path connecting port P21 and port P25. The internal flow path 283 of the eight-way valve 280 forms a path connecting port P22 and port P26. The internal flow path 284 of the eight-way valve 280 forms a path connecting port P23 and port P27. In the second communication pattern, the bypass flow path 230b and port P27 of the eight-way valve 280 are connected by flow path 230a (bypass flow path 230b).

[0112] As a result, as shown in Figure 12(B), the heat transfer medium flows through the third closed circuit 31 consisting of a water-cooled condenser 251, a 280-way valve, a water pump 211, a chiller 220, a 280-way valve, a battery 272, a 280-way valve, a water pump 261, a PCU 263, a 280-way valve, and a water-cooled condenser 251. Note that the third closed circuit 31 is an example of the "third connection flow path" in this disclosure.

[0113] Therefore, by rotating the 8-way valve 280, it is possible to easily switch between the first communication pattern (see Figure 11) and the second communication pattern (see Figure 12).

[0114] <Control method for thermal management circuits> The control method for the thermal management system 2 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 13. Note that the flowchart in Figure 13 is merely an example, and the control methods in this disclosure are not limited to those shown in Figure 13. Furthermore, the explanation of steps similar to those in the control flowchart of the first embodiment described above will be simplified or omitted.

[0115] In the next step S210 following step S100, the ECU 510 determines whether the temperature of the battery 272 detected by the battery temperature sensor 273 is less than 10°C. If the temperature of the battery 272 is less than 10°C (Yes in S210), the process proceeds to step S220. If the temperature of the battery 272 is 10°C or higher (No in S210), the process ends. Note that the threshold value in step S210 may be a value other than 10°C. Also, at this point, the flow path 270a of the battery circuit 270 and the flow path 260a of the drive unit circuit 260 are assumed to be disconnected from each other.

[0116] In step S220, the ECU 510 determines whether the temperature of the heat transfer medium detected by the heat transfer medium temperature sensor 266 is higher than the temperature of the battery 272 detected by the battery temperature sensor 273. If the temperature of the heat transfer medium is higher than the temperature of the battery 272 (Yes in S220), the process proceeds to step S230. If the temperature of the heat transfer medium is less than or equal to the temperature of the battery 272 (No in S220), the process proceeds to step S240.

[0117] In step S230, the ECU 510 determines whether or not the user of the electric vehicle 1a has requested that the heating be activated. If such a request is made (Yes in S230), the process proceeds to step S250. If such a request is not made (No in S230), the process proceeds to step S260.

[0118] In step S240, the ECU 510 controls the heating of the heat transfer medium flowing through the flow path 260a, similar to step S140 in the first embodiment (see Figure 6). Next, the process returns to step S220.

[0119] In step S250, the ECU 510 determines whether the ambient temperature detected by the ambient temperature sensor 700 is higher than -10°C. If the ambient temperature is higher than -10°C (Yes in S250), the process proceeds to step S260. If the ambient temperature is -10°C or lower (No in S250), the process proceeds to step S261. The threshold of -10°C mentioned above is set based on the fact that the heat transfer medium is cooled to approximately -10°C by expansion by the solenoid valve 246 (expansion valve). Furthermore, -10°C is an example of a "predetermined threshold" in this disclosure.

[0120] In step S260, the ECU 510 controls the eight-way valve 280 so that the thermal management circuit 200 follows the first communication pattern shown in Figure 11. At this time, if there is a heating request in step S230 (Yes in S230), the water pump 211 may be driven.

[0121] In step S261, the ECU 510 controls the eight-way valve 280 so that the thermal management circuit 200 follows the second communication pattern shown in Figure 12.

[0122] In step S270, the ECU 510 raises the temperature of the battery 272 by maintaining the state in which either the first or second communication pattern is formed. The detailed processing performed in step S270 will be described later.

[0123] In step S280, the ECU 510 determines whether the temperature of the battery 272 detected by the battery temperature sensor 273 is 10°C or higher. If the temperature of the battery 272 is 10°C or higher (Yes in S280), the process proceeds to step S290. If the temperature of the battery 272 is less than 10°C (No in S280), the process returns to step S270. Note that the threshold value in step S280 may be a value other than 10°C as long as it is not less than the threshold value in step S210.

[0124] In step S290, the ECU 510 controls the eight-way valve 280 to change the heat management circuit 200 from the first communication pattern shown in FIG. 11 (or the second communication pattern shown in FIG. 12) to another communication pattern (for example, a communication pattern suitable for the running of the electric vehicle 1a). Then, the process ends.

[0125] <Processing in S270> As shown in FIG. 14, the process of step S270 includes the processes of steps S271 to S273. In step S271, the ECU 510 sets (initial setting) the flow rate (output) of the water pump 261 to a predetermined value. The predetermined value is a relatively low value (for example, about 1 / 4 of the upper limit value) within the range of the flow rate that can be output by the water pump 261. Note that the process of step S271 is executed only in the first flow.

[0126] In step S272, the ECU 510 determines whether the difference between the temperature of the heat medium detected by the heat medium temperature sensor 266 and the temperature of the battery 272 detected by the battery temperature sensor 273 is greater than 10°C (heat medium temperature - battery 272 temperature > 10°C). If the difference is greater than 10°C (Yes in S272), the process proceeds to step S273. If the difference is 10°C or less (No in S272), the process proceeds to step S280 (see FIG. 13).

[0127] In step S273, the ECU 510 increases the flow rate (output) of the water pump 261. For example, the ECU 510 sets the flow rate (output) of the water pump 261 to the upper limit of the range of flow rates that the water pump 261 can output. Note that in step S273, if the flow rate (output) of the water pump 261 is already set to the above upper limit, the flow rate (output) of the water pump 261 is not changed.

[0128] As shown in Figure 15, the process in step S270 includes the processes in steps S274 to S277. In step S274, the ECU 510 determines whether or not the user has requested that the heating be activated. If such a request is made (Yes in S274), the process proceeds to step S275. If such a request is not made (No in S274), the process proceeds to step S280 (see Figure 13).

[0129] In step S275, the ECU 510 drives the water pump 211. If the water pump 211 is already running, it continues to run.

[0130] In step S276, the ECU 510 determines whether the ambient temperature has decreased and the value detected by the ambient temperature sensor 700 is -10°C or lower. If the ambient temperature is -10°C or lower (Yes in S276), the process proceeds to step S277. If the ambient temperature is higher than -10°C (No in S276), the process proceeds to step S280 (see Figure 13).

[0131] In step S277, the ECU 510 controls the eight-way valve 280 so that a third closed circuit 31 (see Figure 12) is formed connecting the first closed circuit 11 and the flow path 210a. The third closed circuit 31 and the radiator 231 are disconnected and independent of each other. If the thermal management circuit 200 is already in the second communication pattern (i.e., has gone through S261), the ECU 510 maintains the thermal management circuit 200 in the second communication pattern.

[0132] Note that either the series of processes in steps S274 and S275, or the series of processes in steps S276 and S277, may be performed by themselves.

[0133] Other configurations and effects in the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, so no further explanation will be given.

[0134] [Third Embodiment] In the third embodiment, unlike the second embodiment in which an eight-way valve 280 is employed, two six-way valves are employed. Components identical to those in the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described repeatedly.

[0135] <Overall Structure> Figure 16 shows an example of the overall configuration of the thermal management system 3 according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. The thermal management system 3 differs from the thermal management system 2 according to the second embodiment (see Figure 9) in that it includes a thermal management circuit 300 instead of a thermal management circuit 200 and an ECU 520 instead of an ECU 510.

[0136] The thermal management circuit 300 includes a chiller circuit 210, a chiller 220, a radiator circuit 230, a refrigeration cycle 240, a condenser 250, a drive unit circuit 260, a battery circuit 270, a six-way valve 380, and a six-way valve 390. Each of the six-way valves 380 and 390 is an example of the “switching device” of this disclosure.

[0137] The chiller 220 is provided in the flow path 210b of the chiller circuit 210. The flow path 210b is provided to connect the chiller circuit 210 to the hexagonal valve 380 and the hexagonal valve 390, respectively. The flow path 210b is an example of the "fourth flow path" of this disclosure.

[0138] The radiator 231 is located in the flow path 230c. The flow path 230c is provided to connect the radiator 231 and the hexagonal valve 390. The flow path 230c is an example of the "third flow path" in this disclosure.

[0139] The water pump 261, SPU 262, PCU 263, oil cooler 264, and reservoir tank 265 are located in the flow path 260b of the drive unit circuit 260. The flow path 260b is provided to connect the drive unit circuit 260 to the six-way valve 380 and the six-way valve 390, respectively. The flow path 260b is an example of the "second flow path" of this disclosure.

[0140] The battery 272 is provided in the flow path 270b of the battery circuit 270. The flow path 270b is provided to connect the battery circuit 270 and the six-way valve 380. The flow path 270b is an example of the "first flow path" in this disclosure.

[0141] The ECU 520 controls the thermal management circuit 300. The ECU 520 includes a processor 521, memory 522, storage 523, and interface 524.

[0142] <Configuration of the thermal management circuit> Figure 17 shows an example of the configuration of the thermal management circuit 300 in the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 17, the hexagonal valve 380 includes six ports P31 to P36. The hexagonal valve 390 also includes six ports P41 to P46.

[0143] The hexagonal valve 380 is connected to the hexagonal valve 390. Specifically, port P35 of the hexagonal valve 380 and port P45 of the hexagonal valve 390 are connected by a flow path 5. In addition, port P36 of the hexagonal valve 380 and port P46 of the hexagonal valve 390 are connected by a flow path 6.

[0144] The heat transfer medium circulating in the chiller circuit 210 flows through the following path: six-way valve 380 (port P33) - water pump 211 - chiller 220 - six-way valve 390 (port P43).

[0145] The heat transfer fluid circulating in the radiator circuit 230 flows through the hexagonal valve 390 (port P41) - water cooling condenser 251 - radiator 231 - hexagonal valve 390 (port P44).

[0146] The heat transfer medium (coolant) circulating in the drive unit circuit 260 flows through the following path: six-way valve 390 (port P42) - reservoir tank 265 - water pump 261 - SPU 262 - PCU 263 - oil cooler 264 - six-way valve 380 (port P32).

[0147] The heat transfer medium (coolant) circulating in the battery circuit 270 flows through the path of hexagonal valve 380 (port P31) - ADAS 271 - battery 272 - hexagonal valve 380 (port P34).

[0148] <Communication Pattern> Figures 18 and 19 are conceptual diagrams showing the outlines of the first and second communication patterns of the thermal management circuit 300 formed by controlling the hexagonal valves 380 and 390, respectively. The first communication pattern is an example of the "temperature rise circuit" of this disclosure.

[0149] In the first communication pattern shown in Figure 18, the hexagonal valve 380 forms paths connecting port P31 and port P32, paths connecting port P34 and port P35, and paths connecting port P33 and port P36.

[0150] In addition, in the first communication pattern, the hexagonal valve 390 forms a path connecting port P42 and port P45, and paths connecting port P44 and port P46, and port P41 and port P43.

[0151] Furthermore, in the first communication pattern, a path (channel 5) is formed that connects port P35 and port P45, and a path (channel 6) is formed that connects port P36 and port P46.

[0152] As a result, the flow path 260b, which is equipped with the PCU 263, etc., is connected to the flow path 270b, which is equipped with the hexagonal valve 380, the hexagonal valve 390, and the battery 272. Consequently, the heat transfer medium flows through the first closed circuit 12 of water pump 261-PCU 263-hexagonal valve 380-battery 272-hexagonal valve 380-hexagonal valve 390-water pump 261. Note that the first closed circuit 12 is an example of the "first connecting flow path" in this disclosure.

[0153] Furthermore, the flow path 210b, through which the chiller 220 is installed, the flow path 230c, through which the radiator 231 is installed, the six-way valve 380, and the six-way valve 390 are connected. As a result, the heat transfer medium flows through the second closed circuit 22 of water pump 211 - chiller 220 - radiator 231 - six-way valve 390 - six-way valve 380 - water pump 211. Note that the second closed circuit 22 is an example of the "second connecting flow path" in this disclosure.

[0154] In the second communication pattern shown in Figure 19, the six-way valve 380 forms a path connecting port P31 and port P32, and a path connecting port P33 and port P34. Additionally, the six-way valve 390 forms a path connecting port P42 and port P43.

[0155] As a result, the heat transfer medium flows through the third closed circuit 32 consisting of chiller 220 - six-way valve 390 - water pump 261 - PCU 263 - six-way valve 380 - battery 272 - six-way valve 380 - water pump 211 - chiller 220. Note that the third closed circuit 32 is an example of the "third connecting flow path" in this disclosure.

[0156] <Control method for thermal management circuits> The control method for the thermal management system 3 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 20. Steps that are the same as those in the control flow in the second embodiment described above will not be explained again.

[0157] If the answer is No in step S230 or Yes in step S250, the process proceeds to step S360. If the answer is No in step S250, the process proceeds to step S361.

[0158] In step S360, the ECU 520 controls the hexagonal valves 380 and 390 so that the thermal management circuit 300 follows the first communication pattern shown in Figure 18. The process then proceeds to step S370.

[0159] In step S361, the ECU 520 controls the hexagonal valves 380 and 390 so that the thermal management circuit 300 follows the second communication pattern shown in Figure 19. The process then proceeds to step S370.

[0160] The process in step S370 is the same as the process in step S270 in the second embodiment described above (see Figures 14 and 15), so a repeated explanation will be omitted.

[0161] Furthermore, the other configurations and effects in the third embodiment are the same as those in the second embodiment described above.

[0162] [Fourth Embodiment] In the fourth embodiment, unlike the second embodiment in which an eight-way valve 280 is used, a ten-way valve is used. The same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as in the second embodiment, and repeated explanations are not provided.

[0163] <Overall Structure> Figure 21 shows an example of the overall configuration of the thermal management system 4 according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure. The thermal management system 4 differs from the thermal management system 2 according to the second embodiment (see Figure 9) in that it includes a thermal management circuit 400 instead of a thermal management circuit 200 and an ECU 530 instead of an ECU 510.

[0164] The thermal management circuit 400 includes a chiller circuit 210, a chiller 220, a radiator circuit 230, a refrigeration cycle 240, a condenser 250, a drive unit circuit 260, a battery circuit 270, and a ten-way valve 480. The ten-way valve 480 is an example of the “switching device” of this disclosure.

[0165] The chiller 220 is provided in the flow path 210c of the chiller circuit 210. The flow path 210c is provided to connect the chiller circuit 210 and the 16-way valve 480. The flow path 210c is an example of the "fourth flow path" of this disclosure.

[0166] The radiator 231 is located in the flow path 230d. The flow path 230d is configured to connect the radiator 231 and the 16-way valve 480. The flow path 230d also includes a bypass flow path 230e (see Figure 22). The bypass flow path 230e is configured to connect the portion between the radiator 231 and the 16-way valve 480 to the 16-way valve 480. Note that the flow path 230d is an example of the "third flow path" in this disclosure.

[0167] The water pump 261, SPU 262, PCU 263, oil cooler 264, and reservoir tank 265 are located in the flow path 260c of the drive unit circuit 260. The flow path 260c is provided to connect the drive unit circuit 260 and the 16-way valve 480. Note that the flow path 260c is an example of the "second flow path" of this disclosure.

[0168] The battery 272 is located in the flow path 270c of the battery circuit 270. The flow path 270c is configured to connect the battery circuit 270 and the ten-way valve 480. The flow path 270c also includes a bypass flow path 270d (see Figure 22). The bypass flow path 270d is configured to connect the portion between the ADAS 271 and the battery 272 to the ten-way valve 480. The flow path 270c is an example of the "first flow path" in this disclosure.

[0169] The ECU 530 controls the thermal management circuit 400. The ECU 530 includes a processor 531, memory 532, storage 533, and interface 534.

[0170] <Configuration of the thermal management circuit> Figure 22 shows an example of the configuration of the thermal management circuit 400 in the fourth embodiment. As shown in Figure 22, the 10-way valve 480 includes 10 ports P50 to P59.

[0171] The heat transfer medium circulating in the chiller circuit 210 flows through the path of 16-way valve 480 (port P53) - water pump 211 - chiller 220 - 16-way valve 480 (port P55).

[0172] The heat transfer medium circulating in the radiator circuit 230 flows through one or both of the following paths: the first path from the 16-way valve 480 (port P56) to the water-cooled condenser 251 to the radiator 231 to the 16-way valve 480 (port P57), and the second path from the 16-way valve 480 (port P59) to the bypass channel 230e to the 16-way valve 480 (port P57).

[0173] The heat transfer medium (coolant) circulating in the drive unit circuit 260 flows through the following path: 16-way valve 480 (port P58) - reservoir tank 265 - water pump 261 - SPU 262 - PCU 263 - oil cooler 264 - 16-way valve 480 (port P52).

[0174] The heat transfer medium (coolant) circulating in the battery circuit 270 flows through one or both of the following paths: the first path from the 16-way valve 480 (port P51) to ADAS 271 to the battery 272 to the 16-way valve 480 (port P54), and the second path from the 16-way valve 480 (port P51) to ADAS 271 to the bypass channel 270d to the 16-way valve 480 (port P50).

[0175] <Communication Pattern> Figures 23 and 24 are conceptual diagrams illustrating the outlines of the first and second communication patterns using the ten-way valve 480, respectively. The first communication pattern is an example of the "temperature-boosting circuit" described herein.

[0176] In the first communication pattern (see Figure 23), a path connecting port P52 and port P51 is formed by the internal flow path 481 of the ten-way valve 480. In the first communication pattern, a path connecting port P54 and port P58 is formed by the internal flow path 482 of the ten-way valve 480. In the first communication pattern, a path connecting port P57 and port P53 is formed by the internal flow path 483 of the ten-way valve 480. In the first communication pattern, a path connecting port P55 and port P56 is formed by the internal flow path 484 of the ten-way valve 480.

[0177] As a result, the flow path 260c, where the PCU 263 and the like are located, and the flow path 270c, where the battery 272 is located, are connected via the 16-way valve 480. Consequently, the heat transfer medium flows through the first closed circuit 13 of water pump 261-PCU 263-16-way valve 480-battery 272-16-way valve 480-water pump 261. Note that the first closed circuit 13 is an example of the "first connecting flow path" in this disclosure.

[0178] Furthermore, the flow path 210c, through which the chiller 220 is provided, and the flow path 230d (radiator 231) of the radiator circuit 230 are connected via a 16-way valve 480. As a result, the heat transfer medium flows through a second closed circuit 23 consisting of water pump 211 - chiller 220 - 16-way valve 480 - water cooling condenser 251 - radiator 231 - 16-way valve 480 - water pump 211. Note that the second closed circuit 23 is an example of the "second connecting flow path" in this disclosure.

[0179] In the example shown in Figure 23, the first closed circuit 13 and the second closed circuit 23 are disconnected and independent of each other.

[0180] Figure 24(A) shows a second communication pattern in which the flow paths of internal flow paths 481 to 484 have been switched from the state shown in Figure 23(A). In this case, the internal flow path 481 of the ten-way valve 480 forms a path connecting port P57 and port P58. In addition, the internal flow path 482 of the ten-way valve 480 forms a path connecting port P52 and port P51. In addition, the internal flow path 483 of the ten-way valve 480 forms a path connecting port P55 and port P59. In addition, the internal flow path 484 of the ten-way valve 480 forms a path connecting port P53 and port P54.

[0181] As a result, as shown in Figure 24(B), the heat transfer medium flows through the third closed circuit 33, which consists of water pump 261 - PCU 263 - 16-way valve 480 - battery 272 - 16-way valve 480 - water pump 211 - chiller 220 - 16-way valve 480 - bypass flow path 230e - 16-way valve 480 - water pump 261. Note that the third closed circuit 33 is an example of the "third connecting flow path" in this disclosure.

[0182] Therefore, by rotating the internal flow paths 481 to 484, it is possible to easily switch between the first communication pattern (see Figure 23) and the second communication pattern (see Figure 24).

[0183] <Control method for thermal management circuits> The control method for the thermal management system 4 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 25. Note that the flowchart in Figure 25 is merely an example, and the control methods in this disclosure are not limited to those shown in Figure 25. Furthermore, the explanation of steps similar to those in the control flowchart of the second embodiment described above will be simplified or omitted.

[0184] If the answer is No in step S230 or Yes in step S250, the process proceeds to step S460. If the answer is No in step S250, the process proceeds to step S461.

[0185] In step S460, the ECU 530 controls the ten-way valve 480 so that the thermal management circuit 400 forms the first communication pattern shown in Figure 23. The process then proceeds to step S470.

[0186] In step S461, the ECU 530 controls the ten-way valve 480 so that the thermal management circuit 400 forms the second communication pattern shown in Figure 24. The process then proceeds to step S470.

[0187] The process in step S470 is the same as the process in step S270 in the second embodiment described above (see Figures 14 and 15), so a repeated explanation will be omitted.

[0188] Furthermore, the other configurations and effects in the fourth embodiment are the same as those in the second embodiment described above.

[0189] In the first to fourth embodiments described above, an example was shown in which battery temperature rise control is performed when the electric vehicle 1a is driven (when the driving system is started), but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The temperature rise control may also be started based on a predetermined time before the next scheduled start time (for example, 30 minutes before). In these cases, control may be performed so that no torque is generated in the motor of the electric vehicle (for example, control that allows only one phase of the three phases of current supplied to the motor to flow).

[0190] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 26, temperature rise control may be performed at the start of external charging (e.g., rapid charging) using charging power supplied from an external charging facility (not shown) of the electric vehicle. For example, in step S400, the process proceeds to step S110 in response to the ECU 500 detecting the plugging in of the charging plug. If the temperature of the battery 173 is determined to be 10°C or higher in step S180 or S110, the process proceeds to step S410. Note that 10°C is an example of a "predetermined temperature" in this disclosure. In step S410, the ECU 500 starts controlling the external charging (rapid charging). Although Figure 26 shows an example where plugging in triggers battery temperature rise control, the battery temperature rise control may also be started before plugging in, for example, in response to a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes) before the scheduled start of external charging (start of charging power supply). Also, although Figure 26 shows a representative example of applying the above control to the first embodiment, the above control may also be applied to the second to fourth embodiments. Furthermore, the above temperature rise control may be performed when starting normal charging (slow charging, which has a lower charging speed than fast charging).

[0191] The first to fourth embodiments described above show examples in which the thermal management system is installed in an electric vehicle, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The thermal management system may be installed in electrical equipment other than an electric vehicle (for example, a stationary energy storage device).

[0192] The first to fourth embodiments described above show examples in which the output of the water pump is increased over time, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the output of the water pump may be constant.

[0193] In the first to fourth embodiments described above, an example was shown in which the first closed circuit (first connecting channel) and the channel (fourth channel) where the chiller is provided are connected when the ambient temperature falls below -10°C, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. Other circuits may be formed to raise the temperature of the battery when the ambient temperature falls below -10°C.

[0194] The first to fourth embodiments described above illustrate an example of controlling the communication pattern of the thermal management circuit based on the presence or absence of a heating request and the outside air temperature, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The communication pattern of the thermal management circuit may be controlled based on only one of the presence or absence of a heating request and the outside air temperature. Alternatively, the communication pattern of the thermal management circuit may be controlled without considering either the presence or absence of a heating request or the outside air temperature.

[0195] In the first to fourth embodiments described above, an example was shown in which a first communication pattern (heating circuit) is formed when the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the flow path where the PCU (drive unit) is provided is higher than the battery temperature. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. Regardless of the relationship between the temperature of the heat transfer medium and the battery temperature, the first communication pattern may be formed based on, for example, only the battery temperature.

[0196] In the first to fourth embodiments described above, an example was shown in which the output of the water pump is increased to a predetermined value when the difference between the temperature of the heat transfer medium and the temperature of the battery exceeds a predetermined threshold, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the output of the water pump may be gradually increased in accordance with (proportionally) the increase in the difference. Alternatively, the output of the water pump may be increased to a predetermined value after a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) has elapsed since the start of temperature rise control in the state in which the first (second) communication pattern has been formed.

[0197] The first to fourth embodiments described above show examples in which battery temperature rise control is performed when the electric vehicle 1a starts driving (when the driving system is started), but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the temperature rise control may be performed not when the electric vehicle 1a starts driving (when the driving system is started), but when the battery temperature falls below a predetermined threshold (10°C in the above embodiments). In this case, the ECU may acquire the detected battery temperature at predetermined intervals (for example, every hour).

[0198] In the first to fourth embodiments described above, an example was shown in which a first communication pattern (heating circuit) is formed when the electric vehicle 1a starts to run (when the driving system starts up), and the battery is heated using the current flowing to the battery. However, the disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the first communication pattern may be formed after the electric vehicle 1a has finished running (after current has stopped flowing to the battery), and the battery may be heated using a heat transfer medium heated by the heat generated by the PCU or the like. Alternatively, the battery may be heated by flowing a larger-than-usual current to the battery while the first communication pattern is formed during the running of the electric vehicle 1a.

[0199] In the fourth embodiment described above, a first communication pattern using the 16-way valve 480 (see Figure 23) was shown, but the battery temperature may be raised by a circuit other than the one shown in Figure 23. For example, a thermal management circuit as shown in Figure 27 may be formed.

[0200] In the communication pattern shown in Figure 27, a path connecting port P54 and port P58 is formed by the internal flow path 481 of the ten-way valve 480. In the same communication pattern, a path connecting port P51 and port P52 is formed by the internal flow path 482 of the ten-way valve 480. In the same communication pattern, a path connecting port P55 and port P56 is formed by the internal flow path 483 of the ten-way valve 480. In the same communication pattern, a path connecting port P53 and port P57 is formed by the internal flow path 484 of the ten-way valve 480. As a result, the first closed circuit 14 is formed: water pump 261 - PCU 263 - port P52 - port P51 - battery 272 - port P54 - port P58 - water pump 261. Furthermore, a second closed circuit 24 is formed, consisting of water pump 211 - chiller 220 - port P55 - port P56 - water cooling condenser 251 - radiator 231 - port P57 - port P53 - water pump 211. Note that the first closed circuit 14 and the second closed circuit 24 are examples of the "first connection flow path" and "second connection flow path" of this disclosure, respectively.

[0201] In the first embodiment described above, an example was shown in which a high-temperature circuit 110 is provided in the thermal management circuit 100, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The thermal management circuit 100 does not need to be provided with a high-temperature circuit 110 (see Figure 28). Also, in the second to fourth embodiments described above, a high-temperature circuit (see Figures 29 to 31) may be provided as in the first embodiment.

[0202] Furthermore, the configurations (processes) of the above embodiments and each of the above modified examples may be combined with each other.

[0203] The details of the battery temperature rise control will be explained with reference to Figure 32. Battery 173 is connected to converter 810 via SMR (System Main Relay) 800. Converter 810 is connected to inverter 820. Inverter 820 is connected to motor 830. A discharge circuit 840 including a switch and a resistor is also connected to battery 173. A smoothing capacitor 850 is provided between battery 173 and converter 810. A discharge circuit 860 consisting of a switch and a resistor is connected in parallel with the smoothing capacitor 850. Although Figure 32 shows the configuration of the first embodiment as a representative example, the second to fourth embodiments may be configured similarly.

[0204] The temperature rise control of battery 173 may include, for example, a control that electrically disconnects SMR 800 and switches on discharge circuit 840. This causes current to flow through the closed circuit formed by battery 173 and discharge circuit 840. Alternatively, the temperature rise control of battery 173 may include a control that switches off discharge circuit 840 and switches on SMR 800 and discharge circuit 860. This causes current to flow through the closed circuit formed by battery 173, SMR 800 and discharge circuit 860. Furthermore, the temperature rise control of battery 173 may include a control that, with SMR 800 turned on and the switches of discharge circuit 840 and discharge circuit 860 turned off, supplies a current adjusted so that no torque is generated in motor 830.

[0205] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of this disclosure is indicated by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments above, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0206] 1, 2, 3, 4 Thermal Management System, 1a Electric Vehicle (Electrical Equipment), 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 First Closed Circuit (First Connection Flow Channel), 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 Second Closed Circuit (Second Connection Flow Channel), 30, 31, 32, 33 Third Closed Circuit (Third Connection Flow Channel), 114 Heater Core (Air Conditioning Circuit), 122 Low Temperature Radiator (Radiator), 130a, 230a, 230c, 230d Flow Channel (Third Flow Channel), 130b, 260a, 260b, 260c Flow Channel (Second Flow Channel), 131, 261 Water Pump (First Pump), 133, 263 PCU (Drive Unit), 134, 264 Oil Cooler (Drive Unit), 137, 266 Heat Transfer Medium Temperature Sensor (Second Temperature Sensor), 160, 220 Chiller (chiller device), 170a, 210a, 210b, 210c Flow path (4th flow path), 170b, 270a, 270b, 270c Flow path (1st flow path), 171, 211 Water pump (2nd pump), 173, 272 Battery (energy storage device), 175, 273 Battery temperature sensor (1st temperature sensor), 180, 190 Five-way valve (switching device), 231 Radiator, 240 Refrigeration cycle (air conditioning circuit), 280 Eight-way valve (switching device), 380, 390 Six-way valve (switching device), 480 Ten-way valve (switching device).

Claims

1. A thermal management system installed in electrical equipment, A first channel, a second channel, a third channel, and a fourth channel through which a heat transfer medium can flow, A power storage device that performs heat exchange with the heat transfer medium in the first flow path, A drive device that performs heat exchange with the heat transfer medium in the second flow path and generates driving force, A radiator provided in the third flow path, A chiller device provided in the fourth flow path, The system includes a switching device capable of switching the connection state between the first channel, the second channel, the third channel, and the fourth channel, If the flow path circuit includes a first connecting flow path to which the first flow path and the second flow path are connected, and a second connecting flow path that is disconnected from the first connecting flow path and to which the third flow path and the fourth flow path are connected, then the heating circuit is defined as follows: A thermal management system in which the switching device forms the heating circuit when the temperature of the energy storage device rises.

2. The aforementioned electrical equipment is an electric vehicle, The thermal management system according to claim 1, wherein the energy storage device is heated when the running system of the electric vehicle is started.

3. The aforementioned energy storage device is configured to be capable of external charging, which is carried out by charging power supplied from an external charging facility for the electrical equipment. The thermal management system according to claim 1, wherein when the external charging is initiated, the temperature of the energy storage device is raised so that the temperature of the energy storage device is above a predetermined temperature.

4. The system further comprises a first pump provided in the second flow path for circulating the heat transfer medium, The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the output of the first pump is increased over time during the aforementioned temperature rise.

5. A first temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the energy storage device, The system further includes a second temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the second flow path, The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the temperature rise occurs, the switching device forms the temperature rise circuit if the value detected by the second temperature sensor is greater than the value detected by the first temperature sensor.

6. The aforementioned electrical equipment is an electric vehicle, The chiller device is configured to exchange heat with an air conditioning circuit that adjusts the room temperature of the electric vehicle. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when there is a heating request using the air conditioning circuit and the outside air temperature is higher than a predetermined threshold, the switching device forms the heating circuit.

7. The thermal management system according to claim 6, wherein, when the temperature rises while the heating circuit is formed, the switching device forms a third connecting channel connecting the first connecting channel and the fourth connecting channel when the ambient temperature falls below a predetermined threshold.

8. The fourth flow path is further provided with a second pump for circulating the heat transfer medium, The aforementioned electrical equipment is an electric vehicle, The chiller device is configured to exchange heat with an air conditioning circuit that adjusts the room temperature of the electric vehicle. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the temperature rises while the heating circuit is formed, the second pump is driven when a heating request is made using the air conditioning circuit.

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