Battery Temperature Management System

Abstract

To provide a battery temperature management system which can perform temperature management of a battery mounted in a compartment of a vehicle with high efficiency.SOLUTION: A battery temperature management system 101 is a system for performing temperature management of a battery 15 mounted in a compartment. A first heat exchanger 13 is arranged above a second heat exchanger 12 adjacent to the heat exchanger 12, and a temperature of air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger 12 is higher than a temperature of air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger. A propeller fan 14 has a rotation direction and a pitch angle of a blade that are variable. The battery 15 is arranged on the right side in a vehicle width direction in an off-set state. A controller controls a rotation direction of the propeller fan 14 and the pitch angle so that the air heated by the second heat exchanger 13 is guided toward the battery 15 when the battery 15 is cooled, and the air heated by the first heat exchanger 12 is guided toward the battery 15 when the battery 15 is heated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery temperature management system, and more particularly to a battery temperature management system that manages the temperature of a battery mounted in a compartment of a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Vehicles are equipped with batteries to start the engine and drive auxiliary devices. The battery is installed in a compartment of the vehicle together with a heat exchanger (radiator) for cooling the engine and motor.

[0003] Since batteries generate electricity through electrochemical reactions, it is important to control the temperature of the battery so that it remains within a specified temperature range. If the battery temperature falls outside of this range, problems such as reduced performance and shortened lifespan may occur.

[0004] One possible method for cooling the battery so that its temperature does not exceed a predetermined temperature is to use a fan to cool the heat exchanger mounted in the same compartment. The configuration of a fan for cooling the heat exchanger is disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1.

[0005] A variable pitch propeller fan is used as the fan in the vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1. In the vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1, the pitch angle of the blades of the fan can be changed to switch between a state in which outside air is introduced into the compartment through the heat exchanger and a state in which air is discharged from the compartment to the outside through the heat exchanger. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2005-009317 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] In recent years, hybrid electric vehicles have become widespread, and the number of devices that consume power in vehicles has increased. This has increased the load on the battery in the vehicle. Therefore, there is a demand for more efficient battery temperature management in the vehicle, but the conventional technologies, including the technology disclosed in the above Patent Document 1, cannot fully meet this demand.

[0008] Lead-acid batteries have traditionally been used as batteries mounted on vehicles, but in recent years, replacement with nonaqueous electrolyte batteries such as lithium-ion batteries, which have higher energy efficiency than lead-acid batteries, has been considered. Nonaqueous electrolyte batteries have higher energy efficiency than lead-acid batteries, making them smaller and lighter, allowing for smaller and lighter vehicles overall and greater freedom in vehicle design. However, from the standpoint of performance and life, it is more important with nonaqueous electrolyte batteries than with lead-acid batteries to control the temperature of the battery so that it remains within a specified temperature range.

[0009] While it may be possible to install temperature control equipment such as dedicated fans and heaters to manage the battery temperature, this is difficult to adopt because it would increase the manufacturing costs of the vehicle, increase the size of the compartment, and even increase power consumption.

[0010] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a battery temperature management system that can highly efficiently manage the temperature of a battery installed in a vehicle compartment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] A battery temperature management system according to one aspect of the present invention is a system for managing the temperature of a battery mounted in a compartment of a vehicle. The compartment has an air intake section that takes in air from outside the vehicle. The battery temperature management system according to this aspect includes a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, a propeller fan, the battery, and a controller.

[0012] The first heat exchanger is mounted at a position adjacent to the air intake in the compartment and exchanges heat between the heat medium flowing inside and the air. The second heat exchanger is disposed adjacent to the first heat exchanger and exchanges heat between the heat medium flowing inside and the air. The propeller fan is disposed on the opposite side of the air intake across the first and second heat exchangers, adjacent to the first and second heat exchangers, and overlaps both the first and second heat exchangers, and the rotation direction is switchable between left and right, and the pitch angle of the blades is changeable. The battery is disposed at a position farther from the air intake than the propeller fan in the compartment. The controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the blades of the propeller fan.

[0013] The temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is higher than the temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger. The battery is offset to one side in the vehicle width direction. In the battery temperature management system according to this aspect, the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan so that, when cooling the battery, the air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger is guided to the one side where the battery is arranged, and, when heating the battery, the air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is guided to the one side where the battery is arranged.

[0014] In the battery temperature management system according to the above aspect, the controller controls the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan to guide relatively low-temperature air from the second heat exchanger toward the battery when cooling the battery, and guide relatively high-temperature air from the first heat exchanger toward the battery when heating the battery. Thus, the battery temperature management system according to the above aspect can both cool and heat the battery mounted in the compartment, and can effectively suppress deterioration of battery performance and lifespan.

[0015] In addition, in the battery temperature management system of the above embodiment, it is possible to cool and heat the battery by controlling the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fans arranged adjacent to the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, so there is no need to provide a separate fan or heater for battery temperature management, which reduces manufacturing costs and power consumption.

[0016] In the battery temperature management system of the above-mentioned aspect, the controller can also perform control of cooling or heating the battery by switching between a first condition in which the rotation direction is clockwise and the pitch angle is a first pitch angle so that the air taken in from the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger during the clockwise rotation is discharged toward the side opposite the intake side, and a second condition in which the rotation direction is counterclockwise and the pitch angle is a second pitch angle so that the air taken in from the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger during the counterclockwise rotation is discharged toward the side opposite the intake side.

[0017] In the battery temperature management system according to the above aspect, the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are switched between two conditions, a first condition and a second condition, to control cooling and heating of the battery. Therefore, in the battery temperature management system according to the above aspect, the configuration related to control of the propeller fan can be simplified, which is advantageous in suppressing increases in manufacturing costs.

[0018] In the battery temperature management system of the above-mentioned aspect, the first heat exchanger is arranged above the second heat exchanger, the battery is offset to the right in the vehicle width direction, and the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the first condition when cooling the battery and under the second condition when heating the battery.

[0019] In the battery temperature management system according to the above embodiment, in a configuration in which the first heat exchanger is disposed above the second heat exchanger and the battery is offset to the right, the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under a first condition when cooling the battery, and the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under a second condition when heating the battery. By executing such control, when cooling the battery, relatively low-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger is guided to the battery. On the other hand, when heating the battery, relatively high-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is guided to the battery. Therefore, in the battery temperature management system having the specific arrangement of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the battery as in the above embodiment, the battery can be heated and cooled.

[0020] In the battery temperature management system of the above-mentioned aspect, the first heat exchanger is arranged above the second heat exchanger, the battery is offset to the left in the vehicle width direction, and the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the second condition when cooling the battery and under the first condition when heating the battery.

[0021] In the battery temperature management system according to the above embodiment, in a configuration in which the first heat exchanger is disposed above the second heat exchanger and the battery is offset to the left, the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under the second condition when cooling the battery, and the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under the first condition when heating the battery. By executing such control, when cooling the battery, relatively low-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger is guided to the battery. On the other hand, when heating the battery, relatively high-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is guided to the battery. Therefore, in the battery temperature management system having the specific arrangement of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the battery as in the above embodiment, the battery can be heated and cooled.

[0022] In the battery temperature management system of the above-mentioned aspect, the first heat exchanger is arranged below the second heat exchanger, the battery is offset to the right in the vehicle width direction, and the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the second condition when cooling the battery and under the first condition when heating the battery.

[0023] In the battery temperature management system according to the above embodiment, in a configuration in which the first heat exchanger is disposed below the second heat exchanger and the battery is offset to the right, the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under the second condition when cooling the battery, and the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under the first condition when heating the battery. By executing such control, when cooling the battery, relatively low-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger is guided to the battery. On the other hand, when heating the battery, relatively high-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is guided to the battery. Therefore, in the battery temperature management system having the specific arrangement of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the battery as in the above embodiment, the battery can be heated and cooled.

[0024] In the battery temperature management system of the above-mentioned aspect, the first heat exchanger is arranged below the second heat exchanger, the battery is offset to the left in the vehicle width direction, and the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the first condition when cooling the battery and under the second condition when heating the battery.

[0025] In the battery temperature management system according to the above embodiment, in a configuration in which the first heat exchanger is disposed below the second heat exchanger and the battery is offset to the left, the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under a first condition when cooling the battery, and the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under a second condition when heating the battery. By executing such control, when cooling the battery, relatively low-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger is guided to the battery. On the other hand, when heating the battery, relatively high-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is guided to the battery. Therefore, in the battery temperature management system having the specific arrangement of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the battery as in the above embodiment, the battery can be heated and cooled.

[0026] In the battery temperature management system of the above-mentioned aspect, the first heat exchanger is positioned to the right of the second heat exchanger in the vehicle width direction, the battery is offset to the right in the vehicle width direction, and the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the second condition when cooling the battery and under the first condition when heating the battery.

[0027] In the battery temperature management system according to the above embodiment, in a configuration in which the first heat exchanger is disposed to the right of the second heat exchanger and the battery is offset to the right, the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under the second condition when cooling the battery, and the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under the first condition when heating the battery. By executing such control, when cooling the battery, relatively low-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger is guided to the battery. On the other hand, when heating the battery, relatively high-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is guided to the battery. Therefore, in the battery temperature management system having the specific arrangement of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the battery as in the above embodiment, the battery can be heated and cooled.

[0028] In the battery temperature management system of the above-mentioned aspect, the first heat exchanger is positioned to the left of the second heat exchanger in the vehicle width direction, the battery is offset to the left in the vehicle width direction, and the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the first condition when cooling the battery and under the second condition when heating the battery.

[0029] In the battery temperature management system according to the above embodiment, in a configuration in which the first heat exchanger is disposed to the left of the second heat exchanger and the battery is offset to the left, the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under a first condition when cooling the battery, and the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan are controlled under a second condition when heating the battery. By executing such control, when cooling the battery, relatively low-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger is guided to the battery. On the other hand, when heating the battery, relatively high-temperature air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is guided to the battery. Therefore, in the battery temperature management system having the specific arrangement of the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger, and the battery as in the above embodiment, the battery can be heated and cooled.

[0030] In the battery temperature management system of the above aspect, it is also possible that the compartment is provided in a front portion of the vehicle, the air intake portion is provided in a front portion of the compartment, and the battery is positioned rearward of the propeller fan within the compartment.

[0031] In the battery temperature management system according to the above aspect, the battery is disposed rearward of the propeller fan, but offset to one side in the vehicle width direction, so that it is possible to prevent air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger from being undesirably guided toward the battery while the vehicle is traveling. As described above, by controlling the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan and then rotating the propeller fan, it is possible to reliably manage the temperature of the battery by guiding relatively low-temperature air that has been heat-exchanged in the second heat exchanger to the battery when cooling the battery, and guiding relatively high-temperature air that has been heat-exchanged in the first heat exchanger to the battery when heating the battery.

[0032] In the battery temperature management system according to the above aspect, the battery may be a non-aqueous electrolyte battery.

[0033] In the battery temperature management system according to the above embodiment, a nonaqueous electrolyte battery is used as the battery. A nonaqueous electrolyte battery is prone to problems such as performance degradation and shortened lifespan when the battery temperature deviates from a predetermined temperature range, but as described above, the relatively low-temperature air that has been heat-exchanged in the second heat exchanger is introduced to the battery during cooling, and the relatively high-temperature air that has been heat-exchanged in the first heat exchanger is introduced to the battery during heating, making it easy to maintain the battery temperature within the predetermined temperature range and suppressing deterioration in battery performance and shortened lifespan. Effect of the Invention

[0034] The battery temperature management system according to each of the above aspects can provide highly efficient temperature management of a battery mounted in a compartment of a vehicle. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] 1 is a plan view showing a partial structure of a vehicle to which a battery temperature management system according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Diagram 2] FIG. 11 is a front view showing the arrangement of the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger in the battery temperature management system and the rotation direction of the propeller fan, where (a) shows the state in which the propeller fan is rotating to the right, and (b) shows the state in which the propeller fan is rotating to the left. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a propeller fan. [Figure 4] 1A is a side view showing the attitude of the blade of a propeller fan when the pitch angle of the blade is a first pitch angle, and FIG. 1B is a side view showing the attitude of the blade of a propeller fan when the pitch angle of the blade is a second pitch angle. [Diagram 5] 3 is a schematic diagram showing a connection between a first heat exchanger and an engine, and a connection between a second heat exchanger and a motor. FIG. [Figure 6] 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration related to control in a battery temperature management system. FIG. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart showing a battery temperature management method executed by a controller. [Figure 8] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams showing the air flow in the compartment, where (a) shows the battery cooling and (b) shows the battery heating. [Figure 9] 6 is a plan view showing a partial structure of a vehicle to which a battery temperature management system according to a second embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. [Figure 10] 4 is a flowchart showing a battery temperature management method executed by a controller. [Figure 11] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams showing the air flow in the compartment, where (a) shows the battery cooling and (b) shows the battery heating. [Figure 12] 11 is a plan view showing a partial structure of a vehicle to which a battery temperature management system according to a third embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. [Figure 13]4 is a front view showing an arrangement of a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger in the battery temperature management system. FIG. [Figure 14] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams showing the air flow in the compartment, where (a) shows the battery cooling and (b) shows the battery heating. [Figure 15] 11 is a plan view showing a partial structure of a vehicle to which a battery temperature management system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. [Figure 16] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams showing the air flow in the compartment, where (a) shows the battery cooling and (b) shows the battery heating. [Figure 17] 11 is a plan view showing a partial structure of a vehicle to which a battery temperature management system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. [Figure 18] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams showing the air flow in the compartment, where (a) shows the battery cooling and (b) shows the battery heating. [Figure 19] 13 is a plan view showing a partial structure of a vehicle to which a battery temperature management system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. [Figure 20] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams showing the air flow in the compartment, where (a) shows the battery cooling and (b) shows the battery heating. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment described below is an example of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment except for the essential configuration.

[0037] In the figures used in the following explanation, "Up" indicates the top of the vehicle, "Lo" indicates the bottom of the vehicle, "Fr" indicates the front of the vehicle, "Re" indicates the rear of the vehicle, "Le" indicates the left side of the vehicle (left in the vehicle width direction), and "Ri" indicates the right side of the vehicle (right in the vehicle width direction).

[0038] [First embodiment] 1. Configuration of Battery Temperature Management System 101 The configuration of a battery temperature management system 101 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 5. Note that the figures used in the following description are schematic diagrams of the configuration, and the layout and size of each part may differ from the actual ones.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle 1 has a compartment 1a in the front. The vehicle 1 also has a passenger compartment 1b behind the compartment 1a with a dash panel 1c in between. The compartment 1a has an air intake 1d in the front. Air is taken into the compartment 1a from the front of the vehicle 1 through the air intake 1d. A steering wheel 16 is disposed on the left side of the passenger compartment 1b. That is, the vehicle 1 is a so-called left-hand drive vehicle.

[0040] A first heat exchanger 12 is disposed behind the air intake section 1d in the compartment 1a. In addition, a second heat exchanger 13 is disposed below the first heat exchanger 12 so as to be adjacent to the first heat exchanger 12, as shown in Figures 2(a) and (b).

[0041] As shown in Fig. 1, a propeller fan 14 is disposed behind the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 13 (see Figs. 2(a) and (b)). As shown in Figs. 2(a) and (b), when the propeller fan 14 is viewed from the front of the vehicle 1, the propeller fan 14 is configured to overlap both the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 13.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 2(a), the propeller fan 14 provided in the battery temperature management system 101 according to the present embodiment has a rotation axis Ax 14 Rotate right around R As shown in Fig. 2(b), 14 Rotate left around L The rotation direction of the propeller fan 14 is controlled by a controller, which will be described later.

[0043] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 3, the propeller fan 14 has a hub 14a having a substantially cylindrical shape and a plurality of blades 14b attached to the radially outer side of the hub 14a. Although not shown, the propeller fan 14 also has a fan motor that drives the propeller fan 14 to rotate. As shown in Figs. 4(a) and (b), the propeller fan 14 has a configuration in which the pitch angle of the blades 14b can be changed. Specifically, the blades 14b have a rotation plane Rs 14 As shown in FIG. 4(b), the rotation plane Rs 14 As shown in FIG. 4(a), the propeller fan 14 is rotated clockwise. R In this case, the pitch angle of the blades 14b is set to a first pitch angle θ1, so that the air taken in from the front can be sent rearward as indicated by the arrow A1 (first condition). L When the airflow is to be increased, the pitch angle of the blades 14b is set to a second pitch angle, so that the air taken in from the front can be sent rearward as indicated by the arrow A2 (second condition).

[0044] The pitch angle of the blade 14b is changed by a pitch angle changing actuator (not shown) which is controlled by a controller (to be described later).

[0045] Returning to Fig. 1, an engine 10, a motor 11, and a battery 15 are arranged in the compartment 1a behind a propeller fan 14. The engine 10 and the motor 11 generate driving force for running the vehicle 1. In other words, the vehicle 1 is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV).

[0046] Here, in the battery temperature management system 101 according to this embodiment, a non-aqueous electrolyte battery such as a lithium ion battery is used as the battery 15. A non-aqueous electrolyte battery has a higher energy density than a lead battery, and can be made smaller and lighter. The battery 15 is offset to the right side in the compartment 1a (disposed in a state shifted to the right of the center of the compartment 1a in the vehicle width direction).

[0047] Among the components mounted in the compartment 1a shown in FIG. 1, the first heat exchanger 12, the second heat exchanger 13, the propeller fan 14, and the battery 15 are components belonging to the battery temperature management system 101 according to this embodiment.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 5, the first heat exchanger 12 is connected to the engine 10 via a circulation path L1, and the second heat exchanger 13 is connected to the motor 11 via a circulation path L2. Heat generated when the engine 10 is driven is exchanged with air in the first heat exchanger 12 via a coolant circulating through the circulation path L1. Heat generated when the motor 11 is driven is exchanged with air in the second heat exchanger 13 via a heat medium circulating through the circulation path L2.

[0049] The temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger 12 is higher than the temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger 13.

[0050] 2. Configuration related to control of battery temperature management system 101 The configuration relating to control of the battery temperature management system 101 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0051] 6, the battery temperature management system 101 further includes a controller 17, a battery temperature detection unit 18, a fan motor 19, and a pitch angle changing actuator 20. The controller 17 is configured to include a microprocessor including an MPU / CPU, an ASIC, a ROM, a RAM, etc., and a memory. The controller 17 controls the drive of the fan motor 19 and the pitch angle changing actuator 20 by executing firmware pre-stored in the memory based on temperature information of the battery 15 acquired from the battery temperature detection unit 18.

[0052] 3. Temperature management method for the battery 15 executed by the controller 17 of the battery temperature management system 101 A method for managing the temperature of the battery 15 executed by the controller 17 of the battery temperature management system 101 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0053] 7, the controller 17 acquires information about the battery temperature Tb of the battery 15 from the battery temperature detection unit 18 (step S1). The controller 17 continues to acquire information about the battery temperature Tb continuously or intermittently while the vehicle 1 is in the key-on state.

[0054] Next, the controller 17 judges whether the acquired battery temperature Tb is higher than a preset predetermined temperature Tth1 (step S2). Note that the above-mentioned predetermined temperature Tth1 may be set to, for example, 65°C.

[0055] When the controller 17 determines that the battery temperature Tb is higher than the predetermined temperature Tth1 (step S2: YES), it issues a command to the pitch angle changing actuator 20 to set the pitch angle of the blades 14b of the propeller fan 14 to the first pitch angle θ1 (step S3), and the propeller fan 14 rotates clockwise Rot R Then, a command is issued to the fan motor 19 so as to rotate at the speed (step S4).

[0056] By the controller 17 executing steps S3 and S4, in the battery temperature management system 101, as shown in FIG. 8(a), the pitch angle of the blades 14b is set to a first pitch angle θ1, and the propeller fan 14 is rotated clockwise (Rot). R By this, air B1 taken in from air intake 1d is sent to the rear of compartment 1a (arrow B2) after exchanging heat with the heat medium in second heat exchanger 13. As described above, the temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in second heat exchanger 13 is lower than the temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in first heat exchanger 12. Therefore, the air that has passed through second heat exchanger 13 has a relatively low temperature.

[0057] The air that has passed through the second heat exchanger 13 disposed below the first heat exchanger 12 is rotated clockwise. R The rotation direction component of the propeller fan 14 and the rotation axis Ax 14 Since the air moves in a direction that is a combination of the directional component along the first heat exchanger 13 and the directional component along the second heat exchanger 13, it is guided to the right rear direction within the compartment 1a. The battery 15 is disposed in the right rear of the compartment 1a, and the relatively low temperature air that has passed through the second heat exchanger 13 is blown onto the battery 15. The battery 15 is efficiently cooled by being blown onto the relatively low temperature air.

[0058] 7, when the controller 17 determines that the battery temperature Tb is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature Tth1 (step S2: NO), the controller 17 determines whether the battery temperature Tb is lower than a predetermined temperature Tth2 (step S5). Note that the predetermined temperature Tth2 may be set to, for example, 0° C.

[0059] When the controller 17 determines that the battery temperature Tb is lower than the predetermined temperature Tth2 (step S5: YES), it issues a command to the pitch angle changing actuator 20 to set the pitch angle of the blades 14b of the propeller fan 14 to the second pitch angle θ2 (step S6), and the propeller fan 14 rotates counterclockwise (Rot L Then, a command is issued to the fan motor 19 so as to rotate at the speed (step S7).

[0060] By the controller 17 executing steps S6 and S7, in the battery temperature management system 101, as shown in FIG. 8(b), the pitch angle of the blades 14b is set to the second pitch angle θ2, and the propeller fan 14 is rotated counterclockwise (Rot). L By this, air B3 taken in from air intake 1d is sent to the rear of compartment 1a (arrow B4) after exchanging heat with the heat medium in first heat exchanger 12. As described above, the temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in first heat exchanger 12 is higher than the temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in second heat exchanger 13. Therefore, the air that has passed through first heat exchanger 12 has a relatively high temperature.

[0061] The air that has passed through the first heat exchanger 12 disposed above the second heat exchanger 13 is rotated leftward. L The rotation direction component of the propeller fan 14 and the rotation axis Ax 14 Since the air moves in a direction that is a combination of the directional component along the first heat exchanger 12 and the directional component along the second heat exchanger 12, it is guided to the right rear direction within the compartment 1a. The battery 15 is disposed in the right rear of the compartment 1a, and the relatively high temperature air that has passed through the first heat exchanger 12 is blown onto the battery 15. The battery 15 is efficiently heated by the relatively high temperature air being blown onto it.

[0062] 7, when the controller 17 determines that the battery temperature Tb is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature Tth2 (step S5: NO), it issues a command to the fan motor 19 to stop the rotational driving of the propeller fan 14 (step S8). In this state, the battery 15 is neither cooled nor heated by the rotational driving of the propeller fan 14.

[0063] In this embodiment, only the control based on the temperature Tb of the battery 15 has been explained, but when the temperature of the engine 10 or the motor 11 exceeds a predetermined temperature, the propeller fan 14 may be driven to rotate.

[0064] 4.Effects In the battery temperature management system 101 according to this embodiment, the controller 17 controls the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan 14, thereby making it possible to cool and heat the battery 15 that is offset to the right side in the vehicle width direction behind the compartment 1a. Specifically, when cooling the battery 15, the propeller fan 14 is rotated rightward Rot R By this (first condition), the air at a relatively low temperature that has been warmed by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger 13 is guided toward the battery 15. As a result, the battery 15 is cooled.

[0065] On the other hand, when the battery 15 is heated, the pitch angle of the blades 14b is set to the second pitch angle θ2, and the propeller fan 14 is rotated counterclockwise (Rot L By this (second condition), the relatively high temperature air that has been heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger 12 is guided toward the battery 15. As a result, the battery 15 is heated.

[0066] In addition, in the battery temperature management system 101 of this embodiment, it is possible to cool and heat the battery 15 by controlling the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan 14 arranged adjacent to the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 13, so there is no need to provide a separate fan or heater for temperature management of the battery 15, and this makes it possible to suppress increases in manufacturing costs and power consumption.

[0067] As described above, in the battery temperature management system 101 according to this embodiment, the temperature of the battery 15 mounted in the compartment 1a of the vehicle 1 can be managed with high efficiency.

[0068] [Second embodiment] 1. Configuration of Battery Temperature Management System 102 The configuration of a battery temperature management system 102 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 9. In the following, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described. Configurations that will not be described below are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0069] As shown in Fig. 9, a battery temperature management system 102 according to this embodiment includes a first heat exchanger 12, a second heat exchanger 13 (not shown in Fig. 9), a propeller fan 14, and a battery 25 in a compartment 2a provided in the front part of a vehicle 2. The first heat exchanger 12, the second heat exchanger 13, and the propeller fan 14 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Note that the second heat exchanger 13 is not shown in Fig. 9, but is disposed adjacent to and below the first heat exchanger 12, as in the first embodiment.

[0070] The battery 25 is a non-aqueous electrolyte battery such as a lithium ion battery, and is disposed offset to the left side within the compartment 2a.

[0071] A passenger compartment 2b is provided behind the compartment 2a with a dash panel 2c therebetween. A steering wheel 26 is provided on the right side of the passenger compartment 2b. That is, the vehicle 2 is a so-called right-hand drive vehicle.

[0072] The battery temperature management system 102 according to this embodiment also has a control-related configuration similar to that of the battery temperature management system 101 according to the first embodiment.

[0073] 2. Temperature management method of the battery 25 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 102 A method for managing the temperature of the battery 25 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 102 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 10, the controller acquires information on the battery temperature Tb of the battery 25 from the battery temperature detection unit (step S11), and determines whether the acquired battery temperature Tb is higher than a preset predetermined temperature Tth1 (step S12).

[0075] When the controller determines that the battery temperature Tb is higher than the predetermined temperature Tth1 (step S12: YES), the controller issues a command to the pitch angle changing actuator to set the pitch angle of the blades 14b of the propeller fan 14 to the second pitch angle θ2 (step S13), and the propeller fan 14 rotates counterclockwise (Rot L In response to this, the battery temperature management system 102 issues a command to the fan motor to rotate at a left rotation speed Rot (step S14). As a result, as shown in FIG. 11(a), the battery temperature management system 102 sets the blade pitch angle to the second pitch angle θ2 and rotates the propeller fan 14 counterclockwise (Rot L By this, air C1 taken in from air intake 2d exchanges heat with the heat medium in second heat exchanger 13, and then is sent to the left rear of compartment 2a (arrow C2). Thus, the relatively low temperature air that has passed through second heat exchanger 13 is blown onto battery 25. Battery 25 is efficiently cooled by being blown with the relatively low temperature air.

[0076] Returning to FIG. 10, when the controller determines that the battery temperature Tb is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature Tth1 (step S12: NO), the controller determines whether the battery temperature Tb is lower than a preset predetermined temperature Tth2 (step S15).

[0077] When the controller determines that the battery temperature Tb is lower than the predetermined temperature Tth2 (step S15: YES), the controller issues a command to the pitch angle changing actuator to set the pitch angle of the blades 14b of the propeller fan 14 to the first pitch angle θ1 (step S16), and the propeller fan 14 rotates clockwise Rot R In response to this, the battery temperature management system 102 issues a command to the fan motor to rotate at a right rotation (Rot) with the blade pitch angle set to the first pitch angle θ1, as shown in FIG. 11(b). RBy this, air C3 taken in from air intake 2d exchanges heat with the heat medium in first heat exchanger 12, and then is sent to the left rear of compartment 2a (arrow C4). Thus, the relatively high temperature air that has passed through first heat exchanger 12 is blown onto battery 25. Battery 25 is efficiently heated by being blown with the relatively high temperature air.

[0078] 10, when the controller determines that the battery temperature Tb is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature Tth2 (step S15: NO), it issues a command to the fan motor to stop the rotational driving of the propeller fan 14 (step S18). In this state, the battery 25 is neither cooled nor heated by the rotational driving of the propeller fan 14.

[0079] In this embodiment as well, when the temperature of the engine 10 or the motor 11 exceeds a predetermined temperature, the propeller fan 14 may be driven to rotate.

[0080] 3.Effects In the battery temperature management system 102 according to this embodiment, the controller controls the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan 14, thereby making it possible to cool and heat the battery 25 that is offset to the left side in the vehicle width direction behind the compartment 2a. Specifically, when cooling the battery 25, the propeller fan 14 is rotated leftward Rot L By this (second condition), the relatively low-temperature air that has been warmed by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger 13 is guided toward the battery 25. As a result, the battery 25 is cooled.

[0081] On the other hand, when the battery 25 is heated, the pitch angle of the blades is set to the first pitch angle θ1, and the propeller fan 14 is rotated clockwise (Rot R By this (first condition), the relatively high temperature air that has been heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger 12 is guided toward the battery 25. As a result, the battery 25 is heated.

[0082] In addition, in the battery temperature management system 102 of this embodiment, it is possible to cool and heat the battery 25 by controlling the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan 14 arranged adjacent to the first heat exchanger 12 and the second heat exchanger 13, so there is no need to provide a separate fan or heater for temperature management of the battery 25, and this makes it possible to suppress increases in manufacturing costs and power consumption.

[0083] As described above, in the battery temperature management system 102 according to this embodiment, the temperature of the battery 25 mounted in the compartment 2a of the vehicle 2 can be managed with high efficiency.

[0084] [Third embodiment] 1. Configuration of Battery Temperature Management System 103 The configuration of a battery temperature management system 103 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. In the following, differences from the first and second embodiments will be mainly described. Configurations that will not be described below are the same as those of the first and second embodiments.

[0085] 10 and 11, a battery temperature management system 103 according to this embodiment includes a first heat exchanger 32, a second heat exchanger 33, a propeller fan 14, and a battery 15 in a compartment 3a provided in the front part of a vehicle 3. As shown in Fig. 11, the second heat exchanger 33 is disposed adjacent to and above the first heat exchanger 32.

[0086] The battery 15 is a non-aqueous electrolyte battery such as a lithium ion battery, and is disposed offset to the right side within the compartment 3a, similar to the first embodiment.

[0087] A passenger compartment 3b is provided behind the compartment 3a with a dash panel 3c therebetween. A steering wheel 16 is provided on the left side of the passenger compartment 3b.

[0088] The battery temperature management system 103 according to this embodiment also has a control-related configuration similar to that of the battery temperature management system 101 according to the first embodiment.

[0089] 2. Temperature management method for the battery 15 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 103 A method for managing the temperature of the battery 15 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 103 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Note that the flowchart shown in Fig. 10 is applicable to the flowchart showing the method for managing the temperature of the battery 15 executed by the controller.

[0090] When the controller determines that the temperature Tb of the battery 15 is higher than the predetermined temperature Tth1, the controller sets the blade pitch angle to a second pitch angle θ2 and rotates the propeller fan 14 counterclockwise (Rot). L 14(a), air D1 taken in from air intake 3d is sent to the right rear of compartment 3a (arrow D2) after exchanging heat with the heat medium in second heat exchanger 33. Therefore, the relatively low-temperature air that has passed through second heat exchanger 33 is blown onto battery 15, and battery 15 is efficiently cooled.

[0091] On the other hand, when the controller determines that the temperature Tb of the battery 15 is lower than the predetermined temperature Tth2, the controller sets the blade pitch angle to the first pitch angle θ1 and rotates the propeller fan 14 clockwise (Rot). R 14(b), air D3 taken in from air intake 3d is sent to the right rear of compartment 3a (arrow D4) after exchanging heat with the heat medium in first heat exchanger 32. Thus, the relatively high temperature air that has passed through first heat exchanger 32 is blown onto battery 15, and battery 15 is efficiently heated.

[0092] 3.Effects In the battery temperature management system 103 according to this embodiment, the controller controls the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan 14, thereby making it possible to cool and heat the battery 15 that is offset to the right side in the vehicle width direction behind the compartment 3a. Specifically, when cooling the battery 15, the propeller fan 14 is rotated left Rot L By this (second condition), the battery 15 is cooled by the relatively low-temperature air that has been heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger 33.

[0093] On the other hand, when the battery 15 is heated, the pitch angle of the blades is set to the first pitch angle θ1, and the propeller fan 14 is rotated clockwise (Rot R By this (first condition), the battery 15 is heated by the relatively high-temperature air that is heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger 32.

[0094] In addition, the battery temperature management system 103 according to this embodiment also does not require a separate fan or heater for managing the temperature of the battery 15, making it possible to suppress increases in manufacturing costs and power consumption.

[0095] As described above, in the battery temperature management system 103 according to this embodiment, the temperature of the battery 15 mounted in the compartment 3a of the vehicle 3 can be managed with high efficiency.

[0096] [Fourth embodiment] 1. Configuration of Battery Temperature Management System 104 The configuration of a battery temperature management system 104 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 15. In the following, differences from the third embodiment will be mainly described. Configurations that will not be described below are the same as those in the third embodiment.

[0097] 15, a battery temperature management system 104 according to this embodiment includes a first heat exchanger 32 (not shown in FIG. 15), a second heat exchanger 33, a propeller fan 14, and a battery 25 in a compartment 4a provided in the front part of a vehicle 4. The first heat exchanger 32 is disposed adjacent to and below the second heat exchanger 33, similar to the third embodiment.

[0098] The battery 25 is a non-aqueous electrolyte battery such as a lithium ion battery, and is disposed offset to the left side within the compartment 4a, similar to the second embodiment.

[0099] A passenger compartment 4b is provided behind the compartment 4a with a dash panel 4c therebetween. A steering wheel 26 is provided on the right side of the passenger compartment 4b.

[0100] The battery temperature management system 104 according to this embodiment also has a control-related configuration similar to that of the battery temperature management system 101 according to the first embodiment.

[0101] 2. Temperature management method of the battery 25 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 104 A method for managing the temperature of the battery 25 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 104 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 16. Note that the flowchart shown in Fig. 7 is applicable to the flowchart showing the method for managing the temperature of the battery 25 executed by the controller.

[0102] When the controller determines that the temperature Tb of the battery 25 is higher than a predetermined temperature Tth1, the controller sets the blade pitch angle to a first pitch angle θ1 and rotates the propeller fan 14 clockwise (Rot). R 16(a), air E1 taken in from air intake 4d is sent to the left rear of compartment 4a (arrow E2) after exchanging heat with the heat medium in second heat exchanger 33. Therefore, the air at a relatively low temperature that has passed through second heat exchanger 33 is blown onto battery 25, and battery 25 is efficiently cooled.

[0103] On the other hand, when the controller determines that the temperature Tb of the battery 25 is lower than the predetermined temperature Tth2, the controller sets the blade pitch angle to the second pitch angle θ2 and rotates the propeller fan 14 counterclockwise (Rot). L 16(b), air E3 taken in from air intake 4d is sent to the left rear of compartment 4a (arrow E4) after exchanging heat with the heat medium in first heat exchanger 32. Thus, the air at a relatively high temperature that has passed through first heat exchanger 32 is blown onto battery 25, and battery 25 is efficiently heated.

[0104] 3.Effects In the battery temperature management system 104 according to this embodiment, the controller controls the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan 14, thereby making it possible to cool and heat the battery 25 that is offset to the left side in the vehicle width direction behind the compartment 4a. Specifically, when cooling the battery 25, the propeller fan 14 is rotated clockwise (Rot) with the blade pitch angle set to a first pitch angle θ1. R By this (first condition), the battery 25 is cooled by the relatively low-temperature air that has been heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger 33.

[0105] On the other hand, when the battery 25 is heated, the pitch angle of the blades is set to the second pitch angle θ2, and the propeller fan 14 is rotated counterclockwise (Rot L By this (second condition), the battery 15 is heated by the relatively high-temperature air that has been heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger 32.

[0106] In addition, the battery temperature management system 104 according to this embodiment also does not require a separate fan or heater for managing the temperature of the battery 25, making it possible to suppress increases in manufacturing costs and power consumption.

[0107] As described above, in the battery temperature management system 104 according to this embodiment, the temperature of the battery 25 mounted in the compartment 4a of the vehicle 4 can be managed with high efficiency.

[0108] [Fifth embodiment] 1. Configuration of Battery Temperature Management System 105 The configuration of a battery temperature management system 105 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 17. In the following, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described. Configurations that will not be described below are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0109] 17, a battery temperature management system 105 according to this embodiment includes a first heat exchanger 52, a second heat exchanger 53, a propeller fan 14, and a battery 15 in a compartment 5a provided in the front part of a vehicle 5. As shown in FIG 17, the first heat exchanger 52 is disposed adjacent to the second heat exchanger 53 on the right side.

[0110] The battery 15 is a non-aqueous electrolyte battery such as a lithium ion battery, and is disposed offset to the right side within the compartment 5a, similar to the first embodiment.

[0111] A passenger compartment 5b is provided behind the compartment 5a with a dash panel 5c therebetween. A steering wheel 16 is provided on the left side of the passenger compartment 5b.

[0112] The battery temperature management system 105 according to this embodiment also has a control-related configuration similar to that of the battery temperature management system 101 according to the first embodiment.

[0113] 2. Temperature management method for the battery 15 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 105 A method for managing the temperature of the battery 15 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 103 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Note that the flowchart shown in Fig. 10 is applicable to the flowchart showing the method for managing the temperature of the battery 15 executed by the controller.

[0114] When the controller determines that the temperature Tb of the battery 15 is higher than the predetermined temperature Tth1, the controller sets the blade pitch angle to a second pitch angle θ2 and rotates the propeller fan 14 counterclockwise (Rot). L 18(a), air F1 taken into the second heat exchanger 53 from the air intake 5d is sent to the right rear of the compartment 5a (arrow F2) after exchanging heat with the heat medium in the second heat exchanger 53. Therefore, the air at a relatively low temperature that has passed through the second heat exchanger 53 is blown onto the battery 15, and the battery 15 is efficiently cooled.

[0115] On the other hand, when the controller determines that the temperature Tb of the battery 15 is lower than the predetermined temperature Tth2, the controller sets the blade pitch angle to the first pitch angle θ1 and rotates the propeller fan 14 clockwise (Rot). R 18(b), air F3 taken into the first heat exchanger 52 from the air intake 5d is sent to the right rear of the compartment 5a (arrow F4) after exchanging heat with the heat medium in the first heat exchanger 52. Thus, the air at a relatively high temperature that has passed through the first heat exchanger 52 is blown onto the battery 15, and the battery 15 is efficiently heated.

[0116] 3.Effects In the battery temperature management system 105 according to this embodiment, the controller controls the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan 14, thereby making it possible to cool and heat the battery 15 that is offset to the right side in the vehicle width direction behind the compartment 5a. Specifically, when cooling the battery 15, the propeller fan 14 is rotated left Rot L By this (second condition), the battery 15 is cooled by the relatively low-temperature air that has been heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger 53.

[0117] On the other hand, when the battery 15 is heated, the pitch angle of the blades is set to the first pitch angle θ1, and the propeller fan 14 is rotated clockwise (Rot RBy this (first condition), the battery 15 is heated by the relatively high-temperature air that is heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger 52.

[0118] In addition, the battery temperature management system 105 according to this embodiment also does not require a separate fan or heater for managing the temperature of the battery 15, making it possible to suppress increases in manufacturing costs and power consumption.

[0119] As described above, in the battery temperature management system 105 according to this embodiment, the temperature of the battery 15 mounted in the compartment 5a of the vehicle 5 can be managed with high efficiency.

[0120] [Sixth embodiment] 1. Configuration of Battery Temperature Management System 106 The configuration of a battery temperature management system 106 according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 19. In the following, differences from the fifth embodiment will be mainly described. Configurations that will not be described below are the same as those in the fifth embodiment.

[0121] 19, a battery temperature management system 106 according to this embodiment includes a first heat exchanger 62, a second heat exchanger 63, a propeller fan 14, and a battery 25 in a compartment 6a provided in the front part of a vehicle 6. As shown in FIG 19, the first heat exchanger 62 is disposed adjacent to the second heat exchanger 53 on the left side.

[0122] The battery 25 is a non-aqueous electrolyte battery such as a lithium ion battery, and is disposed offset to the left side within the compartment 6a, similar to the second embodiment and the like.

[0123] A passenger compartment 6b is provided behind the compartment 6a with a dash panel 6c therebetween. A steering wheel 26 is provided on the right side of the passenger compartment 6b.

[0124] The battery temperature management system 106 according to this embodiment also has a control-related configuration similar to that of the battery temperature management system 101 according to the first embodiment.

[0125] 2. Temperature management method of the battery 25 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 106 A method for managing the temperature of the battery 25 executed by the controller of the battery temperature management system 106 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Note that the flowchart shown in Fig. 7 is applicable to the flowchart showing the method for managing the temperature of the battery 25 executed by the controller.

[0126] When the controller determines that the temperature Tb of the battery 25 is higher than a predetermined temperature Tth1, the controller sets the blade pitch angle to a first pitch angle θ1 and rotates the propeller fan 14 clockwise (Rot). R 20(a), air G1 taken into the second heat exchanger 63 from the air intake 6d is sent to the left rear of the compartment 6a (arrow G2) after exchanging heat with the heat medium in the second heat exchanger 63. Therefore, the air at a relatively low temperature that has passed through the second heat exchanger 63 is blown onto the battery 25, and the battery 25 is efficiently cooled.

[0127] On the other hand, when the controller determines that the temperature Tb of the battery 25 is lower than the predetermined temperature Tth2, the controller sets the blade pitch angle to the second pitch angle θ2 and rotates the propeller fan 14 counterclockwise (Rot). L 20(b), air G3 taken into the first heat exchanger 62 from the air intake 6d is sent to the right rear of the compartment 6a after exchanging heat with the heat medium in the first heat exchanger 62 (arrow G4). Thus, the air at a relatively high temperature that has passed through the first heat exchanger 62 is blown onto the battery 25, and the battery 25 is efficiently heated.

[0128] 3.Effects In the battery temperature management system 106 according to this embodiment, the controller controls the rotation direction and pitch angle of the propeller fan 14, thereby making it possible to cool and heat the battery 25 that is offset to the left side in the vehicle width direction behind the compartment 6a. Specifically, when cooling the battery 25, the propeller fan 14 is rotated clockwise (Rot) with the blade pitch angle set to a first pitch angle θ1. R By this (first condition), the battery 25 is cooled by the relatively low temperature air that has been heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger 63.

[0129] On the other hand, when the battery 25 is heated, the pitch angle of the blades is set to the second pitch angle θ2, and the propeller fan 14 is rotated counterclockwise (Rot L By this (second condition), the battery 25 is heated by the relatively high-temperature air that has been heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger 62.

[0130] In addition, the battery temperature management system 106 according to this embodiment also does not require a separate fan or heater for managing the temperature of the battery 25, making it possible to suppress increases in manufacturing costs and power consumption.

[0131] As described above, in the battery temperature management system 106 according to this embodiment, the temperature of the battery 25 mounted in the compartment 6a of the vehicle 6 can be managed with high efficiency.

[0132] [Variations] In the first to sixth embodiments, the first heat exchanger 12, 32, 52, 62 is provided to cool the engine 10, and the second heat exchanger 13, 33, 53, 63 is provided to cool the motor 11, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the first heat exchanger is provided to cool the engine or the motor, and the second heat exchanger is connected to other auxiliary equipment (for example, an evaporator or an inverter).

[0133] In the first to sixth embodiments, a structure is adopted in which the engine 10 and the motor 11 are mounted in the compartments 1a, 2a, 3a, 4a, 5a, and 6a at the front of the vehicles 1 to 6, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to adopt a structure in which only the engine is mounted in the compartment at the front of the vehicle, a structure in which only the motor is mounted, or even a structure in which neither the engine nor the motor is mounted in the compartment at the front of the vehicle.

[0134] In the first to sixth embodiments, non-aqueous electrolyte batteries (e.g., lithium ion batteries) are used as the batteries 15 and 25, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, lead batteries, all-solid-state secondary batteries, etc. may also be used.

[0135] In the first to sixth embodiments described above, vehicles 1 to 6 were adopted in which passenger compartments 1b, 2b, 3b, 4b, 5b, and 6b were arranged as candidates for compartments 1a, 2a, 3a, 4a, 5a, and 6a. However, the present invention can also be applied to, for example, cab-over type vehicles.

[0136] In the first embodiment, the third embodiment, and the fifth embodiment, a structure is adopted in which a left-hand drive vehicle is taken as an example and the battery 15 is offset to the right of the compartments 1a, 3a, and 5a, but the present invention is not limited to this in the relationship between the position of the steering wheel and the position of the battery. Similarly, in the second embodiment, the fourth embodiment, and the sixth embodiment, a structure is adopted in which a right-hand drive vehicle is taken as an example and the battery 25 is offset to the left of the compartments 2a, 4a, and 6a, but the present invention is not limited to this in the relationship between the position of the steering wheel and the position of the battery. For example, in a compartment at the front of the vehicle in a left-hand drive vehicle, the battery may be offset to the left, or in a compartment at the front of the vehicle in a right-hand drive vehicle, the battery may be offset to the right. In this case, the pitch angle of the blades in the propeller fan and the rotation direction of the propeller fan may be specified based on the arrangement of the battery. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] Cars 1-6 1a, 2a, 3a, 4a, 5a, 6a compartments 1d,2d,3d,4d,5d,6d Air intake 12,32,52,62 1st heat exchanger 13,33,53,63 Second heat exchanger 14 Propeller Fan 14b Blade 15,25 batteries 16,26 Steering wheel 17 Controller 19 Fan motor 20 Pitch angle change actuator 101~106 Battery temperature management system θ1 First pitch angle θ2 Second pitch angle Rot R Right rotation Rot L Rotate left

Claims

1. A battery temperature management system for managing the temperature of a battery mounted in a compartment of a vehicle, The compartment has an air intake that takes in air from outside the vehicle, The battery temperature management system includes: a first heat exchanger that is mounted in the compartment at a position adjacent to the air intake and exchanges heat between a heat medium flowing inside the compartment and the air; a second heat exchanger arranged adjacent to the first heat exchanger and exchanging heat between a heat medium flowing therethrough and the air; a propeller fan arranged adjacent to the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger on the opposite side of the air intake section with the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger and overlapping both the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, the propeller fan having a rotation direction switchable between left and right and a blade pitch angle changeable; The battery is disposed in the compartment at a position farther from the air intake portion than the propeller fan; a controller that controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the blades of the propeller fan; Equipped with a temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is higher than a temperature of the air heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger, The battery is offset to one side in the vehicle width direction, The controller: When cooling the battery, the air that has been heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger is guided to the one side where the battery is disposed; When the battery is heated, the air heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger is guided to the one side where the battery is disposed. Controlling the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan. Battery temperature management system.

2. The battery temperature management system according to claim 1, The controller: a first condition in which the rotation direction is a right rotation and the pitch angle is a first pitch angle such that the air taken in from the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger during the right rotation is discharged toward an opposite side to the intake side; a second condition in which the rotation direction is a left rotation and the pitch angle is a second pitch angle such that the air taken in from the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger during the left rotation is discharged toward an opposite side to the intake side; By switching the above, control of cooling or heating of the battery is performed. Battery temperature management system.

3. The battery temperature management system according to claim 2, The first heat exchanger is disposed above the second heat exchanger, The battery is offset to the right in the vehicle width direction, the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the first condition when cooling the battery and under the second condition when heating the battery. Battery temperature management system.

4. The battery temperature management system according to claim 2, The first heat exchanger is disposed above the second heat exchanger, The battery is offset to the left in the vehicle width direction, the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the second condition when cooling the battery and under the first condition when heating the battery. Battery temperature management system.

5. The battery temperature management system according to claim 2, The first heat exchanger is disposed below the second heat exchanger, The battery is offset to the right in the vehicle width direction, the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the second condition when cooling the battery and under the first condition when heating the battery. Battery temperature management system.

6. The battery temperature management system according to claim 2, The first heat exchanger is disposed below the second heat exchanger, The battery is offset to the left in the vehicle width direction, the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the first condition when cooling the battery and under the second condition when heating the battery. Battery temperature management system.

7. The battery temperature management system according to claim 2, The first heat exchanger is disposed to the right of the second heat exchanger in a vehicle width direction, The battery is offset to the right in the vehicle width direction, the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the second condition when cooling the battery and under the first condition when heating the battery. Battery temperature management system.

8. The battery temperature management system according to claim 2, The first heat exchanger is disposed to the left of the second heat exchanger in a vehicle width direction, The battery is offset to the left in the vehicle width direction, the controller controls the rotation direction and the pitch angle of the propeller fan under the first condition when cooling the battery and under the second condition when heating the battery. Battery temperature management system.

9. In the battery temperature management system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The compartment is provided in a front portion of the vehicle, The air intake is provided at the front of the compartment, The battery is disposed rearward of the propeller fan within the compartment. Battery temperature management system.

10. In the battery temperature management system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The battery is a non-aqueous electrolyte battery. Battery temperature management system.

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