Thermal management loop

Abstract

To provide a heat management circuit which can easily switch between circulation of a heat medium and non-circulation in a passage in which the heat medium configured to exchange heat with a battery circulates.SOLUTION: A heat management circuit 100 includes a battery 11, a first flow path 10 through which a heat medium configured to exchange heat with the battery flows, a water pump 21 (a first flow rate adjusting unit), and a water pump 31 (a second flow rate adjusting unit). In the heat management circuit 100, adjustment of a flow rate of the heat medium by each of the water pump 21 and the water pump 31 switches a flow state in which the heat medium flows in the first flow path 10 and a stop state in which circulation of the heat medium is stopped in the first flow path 10. In the stop state, the flow of the heat medium toward one side in the first flow path 10 and the flow of the heat medium toward the other side in the first flow path 10 are canceled to stop the flow of the heat medium in the first flow path 10.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] International Publication No. 2022 / 208947 (Patent Document 1) discloses switching a flow path of a heat medium by a control valve in a circuit including a secondary battery. In the above circuit, a flow path through which the heat medium that exchanges heat with the secondary battery flows is formed. By switching the control valve, the flow and non-flow of the heat medium in the flow path are switched.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In Patent Document 1 as described above, in order to switch the flow and non-flow of the heat medium in the flow path through which the heat medium that exchanges heat with the secondary battery flows, it is necessary to perform control to switch the control valve. For this reason, the control may become complicated.

[0005] This disclosure has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a thermal management circuit capable of easily switching the flow and non-flow of the heat medium in the flow path through which the heat medium that exchanges heat with the battery flows.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A thermal management circuit according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a thermal management circuit through which a heat transfer medium flows, comprising: a battery; a first flow path through which a heat transfer medium, which is exchanged with the battery, flows; a first flow rate adjustment unit for adjusting the flow rate of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path toward a first direction; and a second flow rate adjustment unit for adjusting the flow rate of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path toward a second direction opposite to the first direction. By adjusting the flow rate of the heat transfer medium by at least one of the first flow rate adjustment unit and the second flow rate adjustment unit, the circuit is switched between (i) a flow state in which the heat transfer medium flows through the first flow path and (ii) a stopped state in which the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path is stopped by canceling out the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path toward a first direction and the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path toward a second direction.

[0007] In the thermal management circuit relating to the first aspect of this disclosure, as described above, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium is adjusted in at least one of the first flow rate adjustment unit and the second flow rate adjustment unit, thereby switching between a flow state and a stopped state (non-flow state) in the first flow path. As a result, the flow state of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path can be controlled by controlling at least one of the first flow rate adjustment unit and the second flow rate adjustment unit. Consequently, the flow and non-flow states of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path can be easily switched.

[0008] The thermal management circuit relating to the first aspect described above preferably comprises a first heat source, a second heat source, a second flow path connected to one end of the first flow path and through which the heat transfer medium exchanges heat with the first heat source, and a third flow path connected to the other end of the first flow path and through which the heat transfer medium exchanges heat with the second heat source. The first heat source raises the temperature of the heat transfer medium by supplying heat to it. The second heat source cools the heat transfer medium by receiving heat from it. A heating circuit is formed in which the battery is heated when the heat transfer medium from the second flow path flows through the first flow path and the flow of the heat transfer medium from the third flow path through the first flow path is restricted. A cooling circuit is formed in which the battery is cooled when the heat transfer medium from the third flow path flows through the first flow path and the flow of the heat transfer medium from the second flow path through the first flow path is restricted. A flow stop circuit is formed in which the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path is stopped by the cancellation of the flow of the heat transfer medium from the second flow path and the flow of the heat transfer medium from the third flow path in the first flow path. With this configuration, in addition to switching between the flow and non-flow of the heat transfer medium in the first channel, it is also possible to switch between heating and cooling the battery using the heat transfer medium flowing through the first channel.

[0009] In this case, preferably, the second heat source is a chiller. The heat management circuit further comprises a refrigeration cycle including a compressor, connected to the chiller; a first heat exchanger located downstream of the portion of the second flow path where heat exchange between the first heat source and the heat transfer medium takes place; a high-temperature circuit connected to the first heat exchanger and where an electric heater is located; and a second heat exchanger where heat exchange between the heat transfer medium of the refrigeration cycle and the heat transfer medium of the high-temperature circuit takes place. With this configuration, in addition to the heat from the electric heater, the heat generated by operating the refrigeration cycle (compressor) can be used for heating, etc.

[0010] The thermal management circuit, which includes the chiller device and high-temperature circuit described above, preferably includes a first radiator connected in parallel to each of the second and third flow paths. The high-temperature circuit includes a heater core and a second radiator. When a heating circuit is formed, the waste heat from the first heat source and the battery is used for heating via the heater core or dissipated to the outside air via the second radiator. When a cooling circuit is formed, the heat transfer medium cooled by the first radiator is further cooled by the chiller device. With this configuration, when a heating circuit is formed, the waste heat from the first heat source and the battery can be easily handled. Also, when a cooling circuit is formed, the heat transfer medium can be efficiently cooled by the first radiator and the chiller device.

[0011] The thermal management circuit, which includes the first and second heat sources described above, is preferably provided downstream of the first portion of the second flow path where heat exchange between the first heat source and the heat transfer medium takes place, and includes a first flow path switching valve capable of switching the flow path of the heat transfer medium. The thermal management circuit is provided upstream of the second portion of the third flow path where heat exchange between the second heat source and the heat transfer medium takes place, and includes a second flow path switching valve capable of switching the flow path of the heat transfer medium. The thermal management circuit is provided downstream of the second portion of the third flow path, and includes a flow valve capable of controlling the flow of the heat transfer medium. If the portion of the first flow path between the third portion where heat exchange between the battery and the heat transfer medium takes place and the first flow path switching valve is designated as the first connection portion, the thermal management circuit includes a first connecting flow path that connects the first connection portion and the second flow path switching valve. If the portion of the third flow path between the second portion and the second flow path switching valve is designated as the second connection portion, the thermal management circuit includes a second connecting flow path that connects the second connection portion and the first flow path switching valve. If the portion of the third flow path between the second part and the flow valve is defined as the third connection section, then the first flow path connects the first flow path switching valve to the third connection section. With this configuration, the flow direction of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path can be easily switched using the first flow path switching valve, the second flow path switching valve, and the flow valve.

[0012] In the thermal management circuit relating to the first aspect described above, preferably, when the output of the first flow rate adjustment unit and the second flow rate adjustment unit are increased or decreased at a predetermined cycle, the interface between the heat transfer fluids that cancel each other out in the region of the first flow path corresponding to the battery moves back and forth. With this configuration, multiple cells of the battery can be easily heated uniformly by the heat transfer fluid. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to this disclosure, it is possible to easily switch between the flow and non-flow of the heat transfer medium in the channel through which the heat transfer medium that exchanges heat with the battery flows. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This figure shows the configuration of a thermal management system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a state in which the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path is stopped in a thermal management circuit according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 2 shows a state in which the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path is stopped in a thermal management circuit according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] This diagram shows a state in which the battery and unit circuit are being cooled in a thermal management circuit according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] This diagram shows a state in which the battery temperature is uniformly maintained in a thermal management circuit according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows the flow rate of the water pump in the state shown in Figure 5. [Figure 7] This diagram shows a thermal management circuit according to one embodiment, in which heat pump heating is performed using heat generated by cooling the unit circuit and the battery. [Figure 8] Figure 1 shows a state in which the battery is being heated and the unit circuit is being cooled in a thermal management circuit according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] This diagram shows a thermal management circuit according to one embodiment, where the high-temperature circuit is heated before the battery heats up. [Figure 10] This is a diagram showing a state in which a high-temperature circuit is being heated while the battery is being heated in a thermal management circuit according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing a state in which heat pump heating using heat from cooling of a battery and cooling of a unit circuit is being performed in a thermal management circuit according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a second diagram showing a state in which the battery is being heated and the unit circuit is being cooled in a thermal management circuit according to an embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, the thermal management circuit according to the present disclosure will be described. The thermal management circuit is mounted, for example, on an electric vehicle (not shown). The electric vehicle on which the thermal management circuit is mounted is preferably a vehicle equipped with a driving battery, and for example, a battery electric vehicle (BEV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). However, the application of the thermal management circuit according to the present disclosure is not limited to vehicle use.

[0016] <Overall Configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a thermal management system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The thermal management system 1 includes a thermal management circuit 100 and an electronic control unit (ECU) 200.

[0017] The thermal management circuit 100 comprises a first flow path 10, a battery 11, a second flow path 20, a water pump (W / P) 21, a unit circuit 22, a heat exchanger 23, a four-way valve 24, a third flow path 30, a water pump 31, a three-way valve 32, a chiller device 33, an FSV (Flow Shut Valve) 34, a first connecting flow path 40, a second connecting flow path 50, a reservoir tank (R / T) 60, a low-temperature (LT) radiator 70, a refrigeration cycle 80, and a high-temperature circuit 90. The unit circuit 22 and the chiller device 33 are examples of the "first heat source" and "second heat source" as disclosed herein, respectively. The water pump 21 and the water pump 31 are examples of the "first flow rate adjustment unit" and "second flow rate adjustment unit" as disclosed herein, respectively. Furthermore, the four-way valve 24 and the three-way valve 32 are examples of the "first flow path switching valve" and the "second flow path switching valve" of this disclosure, respectively. Also, the heat exchanger 23 and the FSV 34 are examples of the "first heat exchanger" and the "flow valve" of this disclosure, respectively. Furthermore, the low-temperature radiator 70 is an example of the "first radiator" of this disclosure.

[0018] In the thermal management circuit 100, a Wheatstone bridge circuit is formed by the first flow path 10, the second flow path 20, and the third flow path 30.

[0019] The heat transfer medium flowing through the first channel 10 exchanges heat with the battery 11. In other words, the first channel 10 is provided with a portion 10a that exchanges heat with the battery 11. The first channel 10 connects the second channel 20 and the third channel 30. In the following, the flow of the heat transfer medium through portion 10a may be described as the flow of the heat transfer medium through the battery 11. Furthermore, portion 10a is an example of the "third portion" and the "region corresponding to the battery" in this disclosure.

[0020] Specifically, one end 10b of the first flow path 10 is connected to the second flow path 20 (four-way valve 24). The other end 10c of the first flow path 10 is connected to the third flow path 30 (part 36). Part 36 is provided between the chiller device 33 and the FSV 34. Part 36 is an example of the "third connection part" in this disclosure.

[0021] The heat transfer medium flowing through the second channel 20 exchanges heat with the unit circuit 22. In other words, the second channel 20 is provided with a portion 20a that exchanges heat with the unit circuit 22. The heat transfer medium flowing through the second channel 20 is heated by the heat supplied from the unit circuit 22. The unit circuit 22 includes a power control unit circuit (PCU), an oil cooler (O / C), and a step-up / step-down converter, etc. (not shown). In the following, the flow of the heat transfer medium through portion 20a may be described as the flow of the heat transfer medium through the unit circuit 22. Portion 20a is an example of the "first portion" of this disclosure.

[0022] The water pump 21 is installed in the second flow path 20. The water pump 21 adjusts the flow rate (flow velocity) of the heat transfer medium flowing through the second flow path 20. As a result, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium from the second flow path 20 that flows (or is about to flow) in the first flow path 10 is adjusted by the water pump 21.

[0023] The heat exchanger 23 is located in the second flow path 20. The heat exchanger 23 is located downstream of section 20a (unit circuit 22). The heat exchanger 23 is a water-water heat exchanger. The heat exchanger 23 is connected to the high-temperature circuit 90.

[0024] The high-temperature circuit 90 includes an electric heater 91, a four-way valve 92, a high-temperature (HT) radiator 93, a heater core 94, and a reservoir tank 95. The high-temperature circuit 90 is also connected to a water-cooled condenser 85. The heat transfer medium of the high-temperature circuit 90 flows through one of three paths: a first path through reservoir tank 95 - water-cooled condenser 85 - electric heater 91 - four-way valve 92 - heater core 94 - reservoir tank 95; a second path through reservoir tank 95 - water-cooled condenser 85 - electric heater 91 - four-way valve 92 - heat exchanger 23 - reservoir tank 95; or a third path through reservoir tank 95 - water-cooled condenser 85 - electric heater 91 - four-way valve 92 - high-temperature radiator 93. For example, the heat transfer medium may flow through both the first and second paths. The water-cooled condenser 85 and the high-temperature radiator 93 are examples of the "second heat exchanger" and "second radiator" as defined in this disclosure, respectively.

[0025] The four-way valve 92 has a port P31 connected to the flow path between it and the heater core 94, and a port P32 connected to the flow path between it and the heat exchanger 23.

[0026] The four-way valve 24 is located in the second flow path 20. The four-way valve 24 is located downstream of section 20a (unit circuit 22) and the heat exchanger 23. In other words, the four-way valve 24 is located on the opposite side of section 20a (unit circuit 22) and the heat exchanger 23 from the water pump 21. The four-way valve 24 is configured to switch the flow path of the heat transfer medium. The four-way valve 24 is connected to the first flow path 10, the second flow path 20 (upstream and downstream), and the second connecting flow path 50.

[0027] The four-way valve 24 has a port P1 connected to the flow path between it and the heat exchanger 23, a port P2 connected to the second connecting flow path 50, a port P3 connected to the first flow path 10, and a port P4 connected to the flow path of the second flow path 20 downstream of the four-way valve 24.

[0028] The heat transfer medium flowing through the third channel 30 undergoes heat exchange with the chiller device 33. In other words, the chiller device 33 is located in portion 30a of the third channel 30. The heat transfer medium flowing through the third channel 30 is cooled by supplying heat to the chiller device 33. Portion 30a is an example of the "second portion" of this disclosure.

[0029] The water pump 31 is installed in the third flow path 30. The water pump 31 is configured to adjust the flow rate (flow velocity) of the heat transfer medium flowing through the third flow path 30. As a result, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium from the third flow path 30 that flows (or is about to flow) in the first flow path 10 is adjusted by the water pump 31.

[0030] The three-way valve 32 is installed on the upstream side of portion 30a (chiller device 33) of the third flow path 30. The three-way valve 32 is installed between portion 30a (chiller device 33) of the third flow path 30 and the water pump 31.

[0031] The three-way valve 32 has a port P11 connected to the flow path between the third flow path 30 and the water pump 31, a port P12 connected to the first connecting flow path 40, and a port P13 connected to the flow path between the third flow path 30 and the chiller device 33 (part 30a).

[0032] The FSV34 is located on the opposite side of the three-way valve 32 from the portion 30a of the third flow path 30 (i.e., downstream of portion 30a). The FSV34 is configured to allow switching between the flow and non-flow of the heat transfer medium.

[0033] The third flow path 30 is provided with a connection portion 35 between the chiller device 33 (part 30a) and the three-way valve 32. The second connecting flow path 50 connects the connection portion 35 to the four-way valve 24. Note that the connection portion 35 is an example of the "second connecting portion" in this disclosure.

[0034] The first flow path 10 is provided with a connection portion 12 between the battery 11 (part 10a) and the four-way valve 24. The first connecting flow path 40 connects the connection portion 12 to the three-way valve 32. Note that the connection portion 12 is an example of the "first connecting portion" in this disclosure.

[0035] The reservoir tank 60 is connected to the second flow path 20 and the third flow path 30, respectively, on the upstream side of the second flow path 20 and the third flow path 30. The reservoir tank 60 maintains the pressure and amount of the heat transfer medium in the heat management circuit 100 (first flow path 10, second flow path 20, and third flow path 30) by storing a portion of the heat transfer medium in the heat management circuit 100.

[0036] The low-temperature radiator 70 is configured so that the heat transfer medium flows through at least one of the second flow path 20 and the third flow path 30. In the low-temperature radiator 70, the heat transfer medium exchanges heat with the outside air. The heat transfer medium that has exchanged heat with the outside air in the low-temperature radiator 70 flows to the reservoir tank 60.

[0037] The refrigeration cycle 80 is connected to the chiller device 33. The refrigeration cycle 80 includes a compressor 81, an evaporator 82, an expansion valve 83, and an expansion valve 84. The refrigeration cycle 80 is connected to a water-cooled condenser 85. Heat exchange occurs between the heat transfer medium of the refrigeration cycle 80 and the heat transfer medium of the high-temperature circuit 90 in the water-cooled condenser 85.

[0038] The heat transfer medium (gas-phase refrigerant or liquid-phase refrigerant) circulating in the refrigeration cycle 80 flows through one or both of the following paths: a first path from compressor 81 to water-cooled condenser 85 to expansion valve 84 to evaporator 82 to compressor 81, and a second path from compressor 81 to water-cooled condenser 85 to expansion valve 83 to chiller device 33 to compressor 81.

[0039] The ECU200 controls the thermal management circuit 100. The ECU200 includes a processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, and interface 204.

[0040] The processor 201 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit). The memory 202 is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory). The processor 201 performs various processes by reading system programs and control programs stored in the storage 203, loading them into the memory 202, and executing them. The interface 204 controls communication between the ECU 200 and the components of the thermal management circuit 100.

[0041] The ECU 200 generates control commands based on sensor values ​​obtained from various sensors (not shown) included in the thermal management circuit 100, and outputs the generated control commands to the thermal management circuit 100. Based on the control commands from the ECU 200, the states of the three-way valve 32, four-way valve 24, four-way valve 92, and FSV 34 are controlled. In addition, based on the control commands from the ECU 200, the outputs of the electric heater 91, water pump 21, and water pump 31 are controlled.

[0042] In conventional thermal management circuits, the flow and non-flow of the heat transfer medium in the flow path corresponding to the first flow path 10 is switched by switching the flow path of the heat transfer medium using a switching valve. However, there is a need to switch the flow and non-flow of the heat transfer medium more easily.

[0043] Therefore, in this embodiment, when controlling the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first channel 10, the flow rates of the heat transfer medium in the water pump 21 and the water pump 31 are adjusted. This switches between a flow state in which the heat transfer medium flows through the first channel 10 and a stopped state in which the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first channel 10 is stopped. In the stopped state, the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first channel 10 toward one side (for example, from section 36 toward the four-way valve 24) and the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first channel 10 toward the other side (for example, from the four-way valve 24 toward section 36) cancel each other out. As a result, the flow (water flow) of the heat transfer medium in the first channel 10 is stopped.

[0044] Figure 2 shows an example of a stopped state in which the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path 10 is stopped. In this example, the outputs of water pumps 21 and 31 are adjusted so that the flow rate (flow velocity) of the heat transfer medium in the four-way valve 24 of the second flow path 20 is equal to the flow rate (flow velocity) of the heat transfer medium in section 36 of the third flow path 30. As a result, the flow of heat transfer medium from the four-way valve 24 side toward the battery 11 and the flow of heat transfer medium from section 36 side toward the battery 11 cancel each other out in the first flow path 10. Consequently, no heat transfer medium flows into the first flow path 10 from either the second flow path 20 or the third flow path 30. Note that the FSV 34 is in the open state.

[0045] In the example shown in Figure 2, in the three-way valve 32, only port P12 connected to the second connecting passage 50 is closed. In the four-way valve 24, only port P2 connected to the first connecting passage 40 is closed. As a result, the heat transfer medium from the water pump 21 (see dashed line) flows through the path of unit circuit 22 - heat exchanger 23 - four-way valve 24 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. The heat transfer medium from the water pump 31 (see dashed line) also flows through the path of three-way valve 32 - chiller device 33 - FSV 34 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. In addition, the unit circuit 22 is cooled by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second passage 20.

[0046] Figure 3 shows an example of a stopped state in which the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path 10 is stopped. In this example, the output of water pumps 21 and 31 is adjusted so that the flow rate (flow velocity) of the heat transfer medium (heat transfer medium in the connection part 12) that has passed through the second connection flow path 50 from the three-way valve 32 is equal to the flow rate (flow velocity) of the heat transfer medium in section 36 of the third flow path 30. As a result, the flow of heat transfer medium from the connection part 12 side toward the battery 11 and the flow of heat transfer medium from the section 36 side toward the battery 11 cancel each other out. Specifically, the heat transfer medium from both sides pushes against each other in section 10a, thereby stopping the flow of the heat transfer medium.

[0047] In the example shown in Figure 3, only port P13 is closed in the three-way valve 32. Only ports P3 and P4 are closed in the four-way valve 24. The FSV 34 is open. As a result, the heat transfer medium from the water pump 21 flows through the path from unit circuit 22 - heat exchanger 23 - four-way valve 24 - first connecting channel 40 - chiller device 33 - FSV 34 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60, and the path from unit circuit 22 - heat exchanger 23 - four-way valve 24 - first connecting channel 40 - chiller device 33 - battery 11. In addition, the heat transfer medium from the water pump 31 flows through the path from three-way valve 32 - second connecting channel 50 - battery 11. Furthermore, the unit circuit 22 is cooled by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second channel 20.

[0048] In the example shown in Figure 3, heat from the high-temperature circuit 90 (see Figure 1) is supplied to the heat transfer medium in the second channel 20 via the heat exchanger 23. The heat from the high-temperature circuit 90 supplied to the heat transfer medium in the second channel 20 is then supplied to the refrigeration cycle 80 via the chiller device 33. This increases the amount of heat transfer medium that is gasified in the refrigeration cycle 80, which increases the amount of pumping work performed by the compressor 81. As a result, the amount of heat generated in the compressor 81 increases. The heat generated in the compressor 81 is supplied to the high-temperature circuit 90 via the water-cooled condenser 85. This causes the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the high-temperature circuit 90 to rise. The process of circulating heat to raise the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the high-temperature circuit 90 as described above will be referred to as "thermal circulation" below. When thermal circulation is taking place, port P32 of the four-way valve 92 of the high-temperature circuit 90 is kept open. If the heat transfer medium in the high-temperature circuit 90 has been sufficiently heated by thermal circulation, the thermal circulation may be stopped by closing the expansion valve 83 connected to the chiller device 33.

[0049] In the example shown in Figure 3, port P13 of the three-way valve 32 may be opened instead of port P12. In this case, the flow of the heat transfer medium is stopped because the heat transfer mediums push against each other between the three-way valve 32 and the connection part 35.

[0050] Figure 4 shows an example of the flow state of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path 10. In the three-way valve 32, only port P12 is closed. FSV 34 is closed. In the four-way valve 24, only port P2 is closed. The heat transfer medium from the water pump 21 flows through the path of unit circuit 22 - heat exchanger 23 - four-way valve 24 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. In addition, the heat transfer medium from the water pump 31 flows through the path of three-way valve 32 - chiller device 33 - battery 11 - four-way valve 24 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. That is, the heat transfer medium cooled in the low-temperature radiator 70 is further cooled in the chiller device 33. In addition, the unit circuit 22 is cooled by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second flow path 20.

[0051] In the example shown in Figure 4, the flow rate (flow velocity) of the heat transfer medium in the second channel 20 at the four-way valve 24 is smaller than the flow rate (flow velocity) of the heat transfer medium in section 36 of the third channel 30. As a result, in the first channel 10, the heat transfer medium does not cancel each other out, and flows from section 36 towards the four-way valve 24. The heat transfer medium flowing through the first channel 10 cools the battery 11.

[0052] The example shown in Figure 5 has the same circuit state as the example shown in Figure 3, but the output of the water pumps 21 (31) is different from that of the example shown in Figure 3. In the example shown in Figure 5, the waveforms showing the output (flow rate) of the water pumps 21 (31) change sinusoidally (see Figure 6) in a synchronized manner. Specifically, the peaks of the waveforms of water pump 21 and water pump 31 are offset from each other. As a result, the relative magnitudes of the flow rates (flow velocities) of the heat transfer fluids pushing against each other in section 10a change (switch) over time. Consequently, the interface between the heat transfer fluids moves back and forth in section 10a (in the direction in which the first flow path 10 extends). In section 11a, the flow direction of the heat transfer fluid sequentially switches between flowing from section 11a to section 36, a stopped state, and flowing from section 11a to section 12, causing the heat transfer fluid to oscillate in section 10a.

[0053] The battery 11 includes multiple cells, which are arranged in the direction (arrangement direction) of the first flow path 10 in section 11a. Here, if the flow direction of the heat transfer medium is fixed, the temperature of the heat transfer medium increases as it moves from the upstream side to the downstream side in the flow direction. Cells located downstream in the flow direction will exchange heat with the heat transfer medium, which has a relatively higher temperature. As a result, the temperature of cells located downstream in the flow direction of the heat transfer medium tends to be higher than the temperature of cells located upstream in the flow direction.

[0054] Therefore, as described above, by oscillating the flow direction of the heat transfer medium in section 10a, the heat transfer medium mixes together, and the temperature of the heat transfer medium in section 10a is homogenized. By cooling each cell with the heat transfer medium that has been homogenized in this way, it is possible to suppress temperature variations in the cells.

[0055] Figure 7 shows an example of the flow state of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path 10. In the three-way valve 32, only port P13 is closed. In the four-way valve 24, only port P3 is closed. FSV 34 is closed. The heat transfer medium from the water pump 21 flows through the path of unit circuit 22 - heat exchanger 23 - four-way valve 24 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. In addition, the heat transfer medium from the water pump 31 flows through the path of three-way valve 32 - second connecting flow path 50 - battery 11 - chiller device 33 - first connecting flow path 40 - four-way valve 24 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. The unit circuit 22 is cooled by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second flow path 20.

[0056] The battery 11 is cooled by the heat transfer medium flowing through the first flow path 10. The heat transfer medium, having absorbed heat from the battery 11, supplies heat to the refrigeration cycle 80 via the chiller device 33. Then, heat is supplied from the refrigeration cycle 80 to the high-temperature circuit 90 via the water-cooled condenser 85. As a result, the heat supplied to the high-temperature circuit 90 is used to send warm air from the heater core 94 to the cabin (not shown). In other words, heat pump heating is performed using the waste heat from the battery 11. At this time, port P31 (see Figure 1) of the four-way valve 92 of the high-temperature circuit 90 is open, and port P32 is closed. If heat pump heating is not required, the waste heat is released into the outside air via the high-temperature radiator 93 (see Figure 1). This is the same for other circuits capable of heat pump heating described below.

[0057] Figure 8 shows an example of the flow state of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path 10. In the three-way valve 32, only port P12 is closed. In the four-way valve 24, all ports P1 to P4 are open. The FSV 34 is closed. The heat transfer medium from the water pump 21 flows through the following path: unit circuit 22 - heat exchanger 23 - four-way valve 24 - battery 11 - chiller device 33 - first connecting flow path 40 (with a branch to the three-way valve 32 side) - four-way valve 24 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. The heat transfer medium from the water pump 31 also attempts to flow through the three-way valve 32 to the chiller device 33 side. In this case, the heat transfer mediums push against each other between the three-way valve 32 and the connection part 35. The unit circuit 22 is cooled by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second flow path 20. The heat from the unit circuit 22 is supplied to the battery 11 by the heat transfer medium flowing through the first flow path 10. As a result, the battery 11 becomes hot.

[0058] In the example shown in Figure 8, unlike the example in Figure 7 where heat pump heating is performed using waste heat from the unit circuit 22, waste heat from the battery 11 (and heat from the outside air) can also be used for heat pump heating in addition to the waste heat from the unit circuit 22. In this case, port P32 of the four-way valve 92 of the high-temperature circuit 90 (see Figure 1) is closed.

[0059] Figure 9 shows the circuit for heating the heat transfer medium in the high-temperature circuit 90 (see Figure 1) before heating the battery 11. In the example shown in Figure 9, only port P12 is closed in the three-way valve 32. Ports P3 and P4 are closed in the four-way valve 24. The FSV 34 is open. The heat transfer medium from the water pump 21 flows through the unit circuit 22 - heat exchanger 23 - four-way valve 24 - first connecting channel 40 - chiller device 33 (with a diversion to the three-way valve 32 side) - FSV 34 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. The heat transfer medium from the water pump 31 also attempts to flow through the three-way valve 32 to the chiller device 33 side. In this case, the heat transfer mediums push against each other between the three-way valve 32 and the connection part 35. The unit circuit 22 is cooled by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second channel 20.

[0060] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 9, port P32 of the four-way valve 92 of the high-temperature circuit 90 (see Figure 1) is opened. This allows the heat circulation described above to occur. As a result, the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the high-temperature circuit 90 rises. After the heat transfer medium in the high-temperature circuit 90 has been raised in advance, the thermal management circuit 100 is switched so that the heat transfer medium flows through the battery 11, and the battery 11 is heated up by the heat generated by the heat circulation. Note that port P31 of the four-way valve 92 may also be in the open state.

[0061] The example shown in Figure 10 differs from the example shown in Figure 9 in that heat circulation is performed while the battery 11 is heated by a heat transfer medium. In the example shown in Figure 10, waste heat from the battery 11 can also be used for heat circulation. Note that port P31 of the four-way valve 92 may be in the open state.

[0062] Figure 11 shows an example of the flow state of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path 10. In the three-way valve 32, only port P13 is closed. In the four-way valve 24, only ports P3 and P4 are closed. The FSV 34 is open. The heat transfer medium from the water pump 21 flows through the unit circuit 22 - heat exchanger 23 - four-way valve 24 - first connecting flow path 40 - chiller device 33 - FSV 34 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. The heat transfer medium from the water pump 31 also flows through the three-way valve 32 - second connecting flow path 50 - battery 11 - FSV 34 - low-temperature radiator 70 - reservoir tank 60. The heat transfer medium flowing through the second flow path 20 cools the unit circuit 22. The heat transfer medium flowing through the first flow path 10 cools the battery 11. In addition, the waste heat from the unit circuit 22 (and the heat from the outside air) can be used for heat pump heating. In this state, port P32 of the four-way valve 92 of the high-temperature circuit 90 (see Figure 1) is closed.

[0063] The example shown in Figure 12 differs from the example shown in Figure 8 in that the electric heater 91 of the high-temperature circuit 90 (see Figure 1) is turned off. The circuit in Figure 12 may be configured, for example, when only the battery 11 is to be heated without activating the heating before the vehicle is driven. Alternatively, the circuit in Figure 12 may be configured when the amount of heat generated by the unit circuit 22 becomes relatively large while the vehicle is running, making it possible to heat (and raise the temperature of the battery 11) using only the heat generated by the unit circuit 22.

[0064] Note that in Figures 3, 8-10, and 12, the ports P11-P13 of the three-way valve 32 may be closed to turn off the water pump 31.

[0065] Furthermore, air bleeding to circulate the heat transfer medium through all the flow paths of the heat management circuit 100 is performed by sequentially switching the open and closed states of the ports in the switching valves (32, 24).

[0066] As described above, in this embodiment, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium is adjusted by the water pump 21 and the water pump 31, thereby canceling out the flow of the heat transfer medium toward one side in the first channel 10 and the flow of the heat transfer medium toward the other side in the first channel 10. This allows switching between a stopped state in which the flow of the heat transfer medium in the first channel 10 is stopped and a flow state in which the heat transfer medium flows in the first channel 10. In other words, by adjusting the relationship between the flow rate of the water pump 21 and the flow rate of the water pump 31, the flow state of the heat transfer medium in the first channel 10 can be easily switched.

[0067] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the flow state of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path 10 is switched by adjusting the flow rate of water pump 21 and water pump 31 respectively, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The flow state of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path 10 may also be switched by adjusting the flow rate of only one of water pump 21 or water pump 31.

[0068] In the above embodiment, an example was shown where the heat source for raising the temperature of the heat transfer medium is the unit circuit 22, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The heat source for raising the temperature of the heat transfer medium may be something other than the unit circuit 22 (for example, an electric heater). Also, the heat source for cooling the heat transfer medium may be something other than the chiller device 33 (for example, a radiator).

[0069] 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]

[0070] 10 First flow path, 10a section (third section), 10b one end, 10c other end, 11 Battery, 12 Connection section (first connection section), 20 Second flow path, 20a section (first section), 21 Water pump (first flow rate adjustment unit), 22 Unit circuit (first heat source), 23 Heat exchanger (first heat exchanger), 24 Four-way valve (first flow path switching valve), 30 Third flow path, 30a section (second section), 31 Water pump (second flow rate adjustment unit), 32 Three-way valve (second flow path switching valve), 33 Chiller device (second heat source), 34 FSV (flow valve), 35 Connection section (second connection section), 36 Section (third connection section), 40 First connection flow path, 70 Low-temperature radiator (first radiator), 80 Refrigeration cycle, 81 Compressor, 85 Water-cooled condenser (second heat exchanger), 90 High-temperature circuit, 91 Electric heater, 93 High-temperature radiator (second radiator), 94 Heater core, 100 Thermal management circuit.

Claims

1. A thermal management circuit through which a heat transfer medium flows, Battery and A first channel through which a heat transfer medium flows, which is used for heat exchange with the aforementioned battery, A first flow rate adjustment unit adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path in the first direction, The system includes a second flow rate adjustment unit that adjusts the flow rate of the heat transfer medium in the first flow path in a second direction opposite to the first direction, The flow rate of the heat transfer medium is adjusted by at least one of the first flow rate adjustment unit and the second flow rate adjustment unit, The flow state in which the heat transfer medium flows through the first flow path, A thermal management circuit that switches between a stopped state in which the flow of heat transfer medium in the first channel is stopped by canceling out the flow of heat transfer medium in the first channel toward a first direction and the flow of heat transfer medium in the first channel toward a second direction in the first channel.

2. First heat source and The second heat source and A second flow channel is connected to one end of the first flow channel, and a heat transfer medium exchanges heat with the first heat source between the two channels. The system comprises a third flow path connected to the other end of the first flow path, through which a heat transfer medium exchanges heat with the second heat source, The first heat source raises the temperature of the heat transfer medium by supplying heat to it. The second heat source cools the heat transfer medium by supplying heat from the heat transfer medium, A heating circuit is formed in which the battery is heated when the flow of the heat transfer medium from the second channel through the first channel is restricted, and the flow of the heat transfer medium from the third channel through the first channel is restricted. A cooling circuit is formed to cool the battery when the flow of the heat transfer medium from the third channel through the first channel is restricted, and the flow of the heat transfer medium from the second channel through the first channel is restricted. The thermal management circuit according to claim 1, wherein the flow of the heat medium from the second channel and the flow of the heat medium from the third channel cancel each other out in the first channel, thereby forming a flow stop circuit that stops the flow of the heat medium in the first channel.

3. The second heat source is a chiller device, The chiller device is connected to a refrigeration cycle including a compressor, A first heat exchanger is provided downstream of the portion of the second flow path in which heat exchange takes place between the first heat source and the heat transfer medium, A high-temperature circuit connected to the first heat exchanger and in which an electric heater is located, The thermal management circuit according to claim 2, further comprising a second heat exchanger in which heat exchange takes place between the heat transfer medium of the refrigeration cycle and the heat transfer medium of the high-temperature circuit.

4. The system further comprises a first radiator connected in parallel to each of the second and third flow paths, The high-temperature circuit includes a heater core and a second radiator. When the heating circuit is formed, the waste heat from the first heat source and the battery is used for heating via the heater core, or the heat is released to the outside air via the second radiator. The thermal management circuit according to claim 3, wherein, when the cooling circuit is formed, the heat transfer medium cooled by the first radiator is further cooled by the chiller device.

5. A first flow path switching valve is provided downstream of the first portion of the second flow path in which heat exchange between the first heat source and the heat transfer medium takes place, and which is capable of switching the flow path of the heat transfer medium. A second flow path switching valve is provided on the upstream side of the second portion of the third flow path in which heat exchange between the second heat source and the heat transfer medium takes place, and which is capable of switching the flow path of the heat transfer medium. A flow valve is provided on the side of the third flow path opposite to the second flow path switching valve with respect to the second portion, and is capable of controlling the flow of the heat transfer medium. If the portion of the first flow path between the third portion where heat exchange between the battery and the heat transfer medium takes place and the first flow path switching valve is defined as the first connection portion, then a first connecting flow path connects the first connection portion and the second flow path switching valve, If the portion of the third flow path between the second portion and the second flow path switching valve is defined as the second connecting portion, then the system further comprises a second connecting flow path connecting the second connecting portion and the first flow path switching valve, The thermal management circuit according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the portion of the third flow path between the second portion and the flow valve is defined as the third connection portion, and the first flow path connects the first flow path switching valve and the third connection portion.

6. The thermal management circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein when the output of the first flow rate adjustment unit and the second flow rate adjustment unit are increased or decreased at a predetermined period, the interface between heat transfer fluids that cancel each other out moves back and forth in the region of the first flow path corresponding to the battery.

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