Heat exchangers, heat exchange devices, thermal management systems, control methods for thermal management systems, and vehicles

Abstract

A heat exchange device, a heat exchange device, a heat management system, a control method for a heat management system, and a vehicle are provided, which implement the heat exchange or heat preservation requirements of the heat exchange element and improve the performance and use safety of the heat exchange element. The heat exchange device includes a housing and a spacer plate disposed within the housing. The spacer plate separates the housing into a first cavity and a second cavity. The outer wall of the first cavity on the side away from the second cavity is configured to be in thermal conductive contact with the heat exchange element. The first cavity is provided with a first inlet and a first outlet. The second cavity is provided with a second inlet and a second outlet. A first sealing element configured to open and close the second inlet is disposed at the second inlet. A second sealing element configured to open and close the second outlet is disposed at the second outlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of heat exchange technology, and particularly to a heat exchange device, a heat exchange device, a heat management system, a control method for the heat management system, and a vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, due to environmental pollution and energy shortages, the development and utilization of green renewable energy have been accelerating. New energy vehicles have advantages such as low pollution, low noise, and high energy efficiency, and have become a hot spot in research in the automotive industry. Currently, the power batteries used in new energy vehicles are mainly lithium-ion batteries. The efficiency, service life, and stability of lithium-ion batteries are greatly affected by temperature. Specifically, at low temperatures, the charge and discharge efficiency of the battery decreases, the heat generation increases, and further lithium precipitation occurs on the negative electrode, causing irreversible capacity loss to the battery. At high temperatures, the deterioration of the battery accelerates, and safety accidents such as thermal runaway may occur when a specific temperature is exceeded. Therefore, in order to improve the performance and use safety of the battery, heat management can be performed on the battery. In existing heat management methods, heat dissipation can be implemented for the battery, or heat preservation can be implemented for the battery. However, it is impossible to balance between the two heat management requirements. Therefore, a good heat management effect cannot be obtained.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a heat exchange device, a heat exchange device, a heat management system, a control method for the heat management system, and a vehicle to implement the heat exchange or heat preservation requirements of the heat exchange element and improve the performance and use safety of the heat exchange element.

[0004] According to a first aspect, the present application provides a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger may include a housing and a spacer plate. The spacer plate is disposed within the housing and separates the housing into a first cavity and a second cavity. The outer wall of the first cavity, on the side away from the second cavity, may be configured to make thermal conductive contact with the heat exchange element. The first cavity may be provided with a first inlet and a first outlet. The second cavity may be provided with a second inlet and a second outlet. A first sealing element may be disposed at the second inlet, and a second sealing element may be disposed at the second outlet. The first sealing element may be configured to open and close the second inlet, and the second sealing element may be configured to open and close the second outlet.

[0005] In this solution, heat dissipation or heating can be achieved to the heat exchange element by circulating a heat exchange medium within the first cavity, and the second cavity has two states: a ventilated state in which the first sealing element opens the second inlet and the second sealing element opens the second outlet, and a closed state in which the first sealing element closes the second inlet and the second sealing element closes the second outlet. In the ventilated state, heat dissipation or heating can be achieved to the heat exchange element by circulating the heat exchange medium within the second cavity, and in the closed state, the heat exchange element can be isolated from the outside air, reducing the influence of external high or low temperatures on the heat exchange element and achieving a heat retention effect on the heat exchange element. Therefore, according to the heat exchange device provided in this application, it is possible to balance the heat exchange or heat retention requirements of the heat exchange element and improve the performance and safety of use of the heat exchange element.

[0006] In some possible implementation solutions, the second inlet and second outlet may be positioned opposite each other to increase the circulation rate of the heat exchange medium within the second cavity in a ventilated state, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the second cavity and the heat exchange element.

[0007] In some possible implementation solutions, multiple fins are arranged on the side of the spacer plate facing the second cavity, with the ends of the fins, facing away from the spacer plate, spaced apart from the inner wall of the second cavity on the side away from the first cavity. The fins can increase the strength and rigidity of the heat exchanger and further help to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the second cavity by increasing the effective contact area between the second cavity and the heat exchange medium.

[0008] In certain configurations, the fins may extend from the second inlet to the second outlet, reducing obstructions to the flow of the heat exchange medium and allowing it to flow smoothly and efficiently within the second cavity.

[0009] In addition, insulating members are provided at the ends of at least some of the fins that face away from the spacer plate, and these insulating members may be supported between the corresponding fins and the inner wall of the second cavity, thereby further improving the structural strength of the heat exchanger without affecting the heat retention performance of the second cavity in the closed state.

[0010] For example, the materials for the heat-insulating components include, but are not limited to, mica, polystyrene, or polyurethane.

[0011] In some possible implementation solutions, a first sealing ring may be positioned at the end of the second inlet, and when the first sealing element closes the second inlet, the first sealing ring is compressed between the first sealing element and the end of the second inlet, which can reduce the risk of air leakage at the second inlet and improve the sealing effect of the second cavity when closed.

[0012] Similarly, a second sealing ring may be positioned at the end of the second outlet, and when the second sealing element closes the second outlet, the second sealing ring is compressed between the second sealing element and the end of the second outlet, thereby reducing the risk of air leakage at the second outlet and further improving the sealing effect of the second cavity in the closed state.

[0013] In some possible implementation solutions, the housing may be provided with a vacuum exhaust port that communicates with a second cavity. When the second cavity is closed, the air inside the second cavity can be expelled through the vacuum exhaust port, thereby making the second cavity a vacuum cavity and improving its heat retention effect.

[0014] In some possible implementation solutions, a first insulation layer may be placed on the inner wall of the second cavity, on the side away from the first cavity. The first insulation layer can help improve the heat retention of the second cavity by reducing heat transfer between the second cavity and the external environment. For example, the material of the first insulation layer may include, but is not limited to, aluminum foil, aerogel, or polyurethane foam.

[0015] Similarly, a second insulation layer may be further placed on the outer wall of the second cavity, on the side away from the first cavity, to further reduce heat transfer between the second cavity and the external environment. For example, the material of the second insulation layer may include, but is not limited to, aerogel or polyurethane foam.

[0016] In some possible implementation solutions, the first sealing element may be rotatably positioned on the heat exchanger by using a rotating shaft. In this way, the second inlet can be opened and closed as the first sealing element rotates around the rotating shaft. Similarly, the second sealing element may also be rotatably positioned on the heat exchanger by using a rotating shaft, and the second outlet can be opened and closed as it rotates around the rotating shaft.

[0017] In some possible implementation solutions, the heat exchange medium circulating within the first cavity may be a coolant, i.e., the first cavity may be a coolant-containing cavity, and the heat exchange medium circulating within the second cavity in a permeable state may be air, i.e., the second cavity may be an air cavity.

[0018] According to a second aspect, the present application further provides a heat exchange device, which may include a drive component and a heat exchanger in any one of the possible implementation solutions of the first aspect. The drive component is separately connected to a first sealing element and a second sealing element via a transmission, and can drive the first sealing element to open and close the second inlet, and the second sealing element to open and close the second outlet, thereby reducing the difficulty of the operation of switching the second cavity between a ventilated and closed states.

[0019] In certain configurations, the first and second sealing elements may be driven by the same drive component or by separate drive components, and the first and second sealing elements may be driven separately by multiple drive components, thereby improving the reliability of driving the first and second sealing elements.

[0020] According to a third aspect, the present application further provides a thermal management system. The thermal management system may include a compressor, a condenser, a cooler, an expansion valve, a circulation pump, and a heat exchange device provided in a second aspect. The cooler includes a first runner and a second runner isolated from each other. In a particular arrangement, the outlet of the compressor is connected to the inlet of the condenser, the outlet of the condenser is connected to the inlet of the first runner via the expansion valve, and the outlet of the first runner is connected to the inlet of the compressor, forming a first circulation loop. In addition, the outlet of the circulation pump is connected to the first inlet of the first cavity, the first outlet of the first cavity is connected to the inlet of the second runner, and the outlet of the second runner is connected to the inlet of the circulation pump, forming a second circulation loop. By using two circulation loops and a first cavity, heat dissipation to the heat exchange element can be achieved, and the second cavity can be switched between a ventilated and closed states to meet the heat exchange or heat retention requirements of the heat exchange element under different temperature conditions.

[0021] In some possible implementation solutions, a vacuum exhaust port is provided in the second cavity. In this case, the thermal management system may further include a vacuum pump, the intake of which may be connected to the vacuum exhaust port, and the vacuum pump may be configured to extract air from the second cavity when the first sealing element closes the second inlet and the second sealing element closes the second outlet, thereby improving the heat retention effect of the second cavity in the closed state.

[0022] In some possible implementation solutions, the thermal management system may further include a temperature sensing device and a controller. The temperature sensing device may be configured to detect the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element. The controller may be electrically connected separately to the compressor, circulation pump, drive components, and temperature sensing device, and may be configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range, and to control the drive components to drive a first sealing element to close the second inlet and a second sealing element to close the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity to a closed state. Insulation is performed on the heat exchange element by using the heat exchanger, thereby keeping the heat exchange element within the appropriate temperature range.

[0023] In some other possible implementation solutions, the controller may be configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity to a closed state. In this case, the ambient temperature is low. Therefore, the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of low external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0024] Alternatively, the controller may be configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold and below a second temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet and the second sealing element to open the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity to a ventilated state. In this state, there is no significant difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element. Therefore, the second cavity is adjusted to a ventilated state, which helps to maintain the heat exchange element within an appropriate temperature range.

[0025] Alternatively, the controller may be configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn on when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is greater than a second temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity to a closed state. In this state, the external ambient temperature is high. Therefore, heat can be dissipated to the heat exchange element in liquid cooling mode, and the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of high external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0026] In some possible implementation solutions, the controller may be configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet and the second sealing element to open the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity to an aerated state. In this state, the temperature of the heat exchange element is low and the ambient temperature is significantly higher than the temperature of the heat exchange element. Therefore, the second cavity may be adjusted to an aerated state in order to heat the heat exchange element by using a natural heat source.

[0027] Alternatively, when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than a temperature difference threshold, the controller may control the drive component to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet, so as to configure the second cavity to be in a closed state. In this state, the temperature of the heat exchange element is low, and the ambient temperature is close to the temperature of the heat exchange element. Therefore, the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, whereby the heat exchange element can be thermally isolated from the outside air, and the influence of the external low temperature on the heat exchange element can be reduced.

[0028] The second temperature range is a temperature range in which the temperature value is smaller than the minimum value in the first temperature range.

[0029] In some implementations, the thermal management system may further include a heater, and the heater may be connected between the first cavity and the second runner. The controller may be further electrically connected to the heater. When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than the temperature difference threshold, the controller may control to turn off the compressor and control to turn on the circulation pump and the heater, so as to heat the heat exchange element by using the heater, and the heat exchange element may be configured to operate normally.

[0030] In some possible implementation solutions, when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a third temperature range and the ambient temperature is less than a first temperature threshold, the controller may control to turn on the compressor and the circulation pump, and control the drive component to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet and drive the second sealing element to open the second outlet, so as to be further configured to adjust the second cavity to a vent state. In this state, the temperature of the heat exchange element is high and the ambient temperature is low. Therefore, in order to make full use of the natural cooling source, heat dissipation can be performed on the heat exchange element in a composite mode of liquid cooling and air cooling, and while realizing heat dissipation for the heat exchange element, the energy consumption of the thermal management system can be reduced.

[0031] Alternatively, the controller may be further configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn on when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a third temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity to a closed state. In this state, the ambient temperature is high. Therefore, the second cavity can be adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air, and the compressor and circulation pump are turned on to perform separate heat dissipation to the heat exchange element in liquid-cooled mode, resulting in a good heat dissipation effect.

[0032] The third temperature interval is the interval in which the temperature value is greater than the maximum value in the first temperature interval.

[0033] In some possible implementation solutions, the thermal management system may further include a vacuum gauge, which may be configured to detect the degree of vacuum in a second cavity. A controller may be further electrically connected to the vacuum gauge, and the drive component may be configured to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet, drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet, and control the vacuum pump to turn off when the degree of vacuum in the second cavity is above a vacuum threshold, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the vacuum pump.

[0034] In some possible implementation solutions, the thermal management system may further include a first vacuum valve and a second vacuum valve. The first vacuum valve is connected between the intake and exhaust ports of the vacuum pump, and the second vacuum valve is connected between the intake port of the vacuum pump and the vehicle's vacuum booster. In this way, the vehicle's thermal management system and vacuum booster braking system can help reduce the overall cost of the vehicle by reusing the same vacuum pump.

[0035] According to a fourth aspect, the present application further provides a thermal management system. The thermal management system may include an air-cooled heat sink, a circulation pump, and a heat exchange device provided in the second aspect. The outlet of the circulation pump is connected to a first inlet of a first cavity, the first outlet of the first cavity is connected to an inlet of the air-cooled heat sink, and the outlet of the air-cooled heat sink is connected to an inlet of the circulation pump. In this solution, by using the features of an air-cooled heat sink, heat dissipation can be carried out on the coolant in the first cavity, which helps to simplify the structure of the thermal management system.

[0036] In some possible implementation solutions, a fan may be added to the air-cooled heatsink to increase the airflow across its surface and improve the heat exchange efficiency of the air-cooled heatsink.

[0037] According to a fifth aspect, the present application further provides a control method for a thermal management system used to control the thermal management system in the third aspect. The control method includes: A step of obtaining the temperature of the heat exchange element and the ambient temperature, The steps involve controlling the drive components to turn off the compressor and circulation pump when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, driving the first sealing element to close the second inlet, and driving the second sealing element to close the second outlet. In this state, there is no significant difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element. Therefore, the second cavity is adjusted to a ventilated state to help keep the heat exchange element within an appropriate temperature range.

[0038] Selectively, the control method includes the steps of controlling the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold and below a second temperature threshold, and controlling the drive components to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet and the second sealing element to open the second outlet. In this state, the external ambient temperature is high. Therefore, heat can be dissipated to the heat exchange element in liquid cooling mode, and the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of high external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0039] Alternatively, the control method includes the step of controlling the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is greater than a second temperature threshold. In this state, the external ambient temperature is high. Therefore, heat can be dissipated to the heat exchange element in liquid cooling mode, and the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of high external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0040] Some possible implementation solutions may further include the following control methods: The steps include controlling the compressor and circulation pump to turn off, driving the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and driving the second sealing element to open the second outlet, when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold. In this state, the temperature of the heat exchange element is low, and the ambient temperature is clearly higher than the temperature of the heat exchange element. Therefore, the second cavity can be adjusted to a ventilated state in order to heat the heat exchange element by using a natural heat source.

[0041] Alternatively, the control method may further include the step of controlling the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than a temperature difference threshold. In this state, the temperature of the heat exchange element is low and the ambient temperature is close to the temperature of the heat exchange element. Therefore, the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the effect of low external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0042] The second temperature interval is the interval in which the temperature value is smaller than the minimum temperature value in the first temperature interval.

[0043] In some possible implementation solutions, when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than a temperature difference threshold, the control method may further include the following: A step of controlling the compressor to be turned off and the circulation pump and heater to be turned on, thereby heating the heat exchange element by using the heater and allowing the heat exchange element to operate normally.

[0044] Some possible implementation solutions may include the following control methods: The step of controlling the drive components to turn on the compressor and circulation pump when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a third temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, and to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet and the second sealing element to open the second outlet. In this state, the temperature of the heat exchange element is high and the ambient temperature is low. Therefore, in order to make full use of the natural cooling source, heat dissipation to the heat exchange element can be performed in a combined liquid cooling and air cooling mode, and the energy consumption of the thermal management system can be reduced while achieving heat dissipation to the heat exchange element.

[0045] Alternatively, the control method may further include the step of controlling the drive components to turn on the compressor and circulation pump when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a third temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold, to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet, and to drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet. In this state, the ambient temperature is high. Therefore, the second cavity may be adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air, and the compressor and circulation pump are turned on to perform separate heat dissipation to the heat exchange element in liquid-cooled mode, thereby obtaining a good heat dissipation effect.

[0046] The third temperature interval is the interval in which the temperature value is greater than the maximum temperature value in the first temperature interval.

[0047] In some possible implementation solutions, when the thermal management system further includes a vacuum pump, the intake port of the vacuum pump is connected to the vacuum exhaust port of the second cavity. In this case, the control method may further include: The step of controlling the drive component to turn on the vacuum pump when it drives the first sealing element to close the second inlet and drives the second sealing element to close the second outlet, thereby extracting air from the second cavity to improve the heat retention effect of the second cavity in the closed state.

[0048] According to a sixth aspect, the present application further provides a control device for a thermal management system, configured to control the thermal management system in a third aspect. This control device includes the following: A communication unit configured to acquire the temperature of a heat exchange element and the ambient temperature, and A processing unit configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet. In this state, there is no significant difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element. Therefore, the second cavity is adjusted to a ventilated state to help keep the heat exchange element within the appropriate temperature range for the heat exchange element.

[0049] Alternatively, the processing unit is configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold and below a second temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet and the second sealing element to open the second outlet. In this state, the external ambient temperature is high. Therefore, heat dissipation to the heat exchange element can be performed in liquid cooling mode, and the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of high external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0050] Alternatively, the processing unit is configured to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is greater than a second temperature threshold. In this state, the external ambient temperature is high. Therefore, heat dissipation can be performed on the heat exchange element in liquid cooling mode, and the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of high external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0051] In some possible implementation solutions, this processing unit may be configured to do the following: When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold, the compressor and circulation pump are controlled to be turned off, the drive components are controlled to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and the second sealing element to open the second outlet. In this state, the temperature of the heat exchange element is low, and the ambient temperature is clearly higher than the temperature of the heat exchange element. Therefore, the second cavity can be adjusted to a ventilated state in order to heat the heat exchange element by using a natural heat source.

[0052] Alternatively, the processing unit may be further configured to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than a temperature difference threshold. In this state, the temperature of the heat exchange element is low and the ambient temperature is close to the temperature of the heat exchange element. Therefore, the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the effect of low external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0053] The second temperature interval is the interval in which the temperature value is smaller than the minimum temperature value in the first temperature interval.

[0054] In some possible implementation solutions, when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than a temperature difference threshold, the processing unit may be further configured to do the following: Control the compressor to turn off and the circulation pump and heater to turn on, thereby heating the heat exchange element by using the heater, and ensuring that the heat exchange element operates properly.

[0055] In some possible implementation solutions, the processing unit can be further configured to do the following: When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a third temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, the compressor and circulation pump are controlled to turn on, the drive components are controlled to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and the second sealing element to open the second outlet. In this state, the temperature of the heat exchange element is high and the ambient temperature is low. Therefore, in order to make full use of the natural cooling source, heat can be dissipated to the heat exchange element in a combined liquid cooling and air cooling mode, and the energy consumption of the thermal management system can be reduced while achieving heat dissipation to the heat exchange element.

[0056] Alternatively, the processing unit may be further configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn on when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a third temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet. In this state, the ambient temperature is high. Therefore, the second cavity may be adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air, and the compressor and circulation pump are turned on to perform separate heat dissipation to the heat exchange element in liquid-cooled mode, resulting in a good heat dissipation effect.

[0057] The third temperature interval is the interval in which the temperature value is greater than the maximum temperature value in the first temperature interval.

[0058] In some possible implementation solutions, if the thermal management system further includes a vacuum pump, the intake port of the vacuum pump is connected to the vacuum exhaust port of the second cavity. In this case, the processing unit may be further configured to do the following: When the drive component drives the first sealing element to close the second inlet and drives the second sealing element to close the second outlet, the vacuum pump is controlled to turn on to extract air from the second cavity and improve the heat retention effect of the second cavity in the closed state.

[0059] According to a seventh aspect, the present application may further provide a computer-readable storage medium that stores a computer program or instruction. When the computer program or instruction is executed on a computer, the computer becomes capable of carrying out the method provided in the fifth aspect.

[0060] According to the eighth aspect, the present application further provides a computer program. When the computer program is executed on a computer, the computer becomes capable of carrying out the method provided in the fifth aspect.

[0061] According to a ninth aspect, the present application further provides a vehicle. The vehicle may include a heat exchange element and a thermal management system provided in a third aspect. The thermal management system may be configured to perform heat exchange with respect to the heat exchange element, satisfy the heat retention requirements of the heat exchange element, and improve the performance and safety of use of the heat exchange element.

[0062] In some possible implementation solutions, the heat exchange element could specifically be a heat exchange element in a vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0063] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present application. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing the assembled state of a heat exchange device and a heat exchange element according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the heat exchanger and heat exchange elements in their assembled state. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heat exchanger shown. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another heat exchanger according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of another heat exchanger according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 7] This is a magnified view of a portion of position A in Figure 6. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a heat exchange device according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a thermal management system according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another thermal management system according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 11] This is a diagram illustrating the control principle of a thermal management system according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 12] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another thermal management system according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another thermal management system according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 14] This is a flowchart of a control method for a thermal management system according to one embodiment of this application. [Figure 15] This is a flowchart of another control method for a thermal management system according to one embodiment of the present application. [Figure 16] This is a flowchart of another control method for a thermal management system according to one embodiment of the present application. [Figure 17] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a computing device according to one embodiment of this application.

[0064] Reference sign: 1: Battery pack, 2: Powertrain system, 3: Drive wheels, 4: Heat exchanger, 5: Drive components, 410: Housing, 411: First cavity, 4111: First entrance, 4112: First exit, 412: Second cavity, 4121: Second entrance, 4122: Second exit, 4123: First sealing element, 4124: Second sealing element, 4125: Vacuum exhaust port, 4126: First insulation layer, 4127: Second insulation layer, 4128: Vacuum gauge interface, 420: Spacer plate, 421: Fins, 422: Insulation material, 110: Heat exchange device, 120: Compressor, 130: Condenser, 140: Cooler 141: First runner, 142: Second runner, 150: Expansion valve, 160: Circulation pump, 170: Heater, 180: Vacuum pump, 181: First vacuum valve, 182: Second vacuum valve, 190: Vacuum gauge, 1100: Air-cooled heatsink, 1101: Fan 1000: Computing device, 1110: Processor, 1120: Memory, 1130: Communication interface, 1140: Bus. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0065] To further clarify the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of this application, the application will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, exemplary implementations may be implemented in multiple forms and should not be construed as being limited to the implementations described herein. The same reference numerals in the figures represent the same or similar structures. Therefore, redundant descriptions are omitted. Words describing position and orientation as described in the embodiments of this application are explained by using the accompanying drawings as an example. However, modifications may be made on a case-by-case basis, and these modifications will fall within the scope of protection of this application. The accompanying drawings in the embodiments of this application are used only to show relative positional relationships and do not represent true scale.

[0066] Please note that specific details are provided in the following description to facilitate understanding of this application. However, this application may be implemented in ways other than those described herein, and those skilled in the art can draw similar inferences without departing from the meaning of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific implementations disclosed below.

[0067] In recent years, environmental pollution and energy shortages have accelerated the development and use of green renewable energy. The development of new energy vehicles, such as electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, is an important means of achieving energy conservation, emission reduction, and pollution prevention and mitigation. In electric vehicles, the fuel engine is replaced by an electric motor. Therefore, it is possible to achieve zero emissions, low noise, and no pollution, and save the large amount of oil energy that is increasingly being emitted. Hybrid vehicles are driven by both an electric motor and a fuel engine. Therefore, hybrid vehicles can not only make full use of the advantages of a vehicle driven by an engine, such as long driving range and good power performance, but also make full use of the advantages of a vehicle driven by an electric motor, such as low noise and no pollution. As power battery technology matures and develops, electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles will inevitably become the main trend in the automotive industry of the future.

[0068] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present application. Referring to Figure 1, the vehicle includes, but is not limited to, an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. The vehicle may include a battery pack 1, a powertrain system 2, and drive wheels 3. The battery pack 1 is used as the power source of the vehicle and may provide electrical energy to the powertrain system 2. The powertrain system 2 may be connected to the drive wheels 3 and configured to convert the electrical energy of the battery pack 1 into driving force and transmit the driving force to the drive wheels 3 to move the vehicle.

[0069] Currently, vehicle battery packs 1 are primarily lithium-ion batteries. The efficiency, lifespan, and stability of lithium-ion batteries are greatly affected by temperature. For example, at low temperatures, the charge and discharge efficiency of battery pack 1 decreases, heat generation increases, and lithium deposition occurs on the negative electrode, causing irreversible capacity loss in battery pack 1. At high temperatures, the degradation of battery pack 1 accelerates, and exceeding certain temperatures can lead to safety issues such as thermal runaway. Therefore, thermal management may be implemented for battery pack 1 to improve its performance and operational safety.

[0070] Currently, the mainstream thermal management system for battery pack 1 typically uses a liquid cooling / liquid heating solution. That is, a heat exchange component with an internal runner is placed at the bottom or top of battery pack 1, and a low-temperature or high-temperature medium is introduced into the internal runner of the heat exchange component to cool and heat battery pack 1. In addition, the surface of battery pack 1 is usually coated with thermal insulation and insulating material to reduce the impact of high or low ambient temperatures on battery pack 1. However, this thermal management method cannot balance the heat dissipation requirements and heat retention requirements of battery pack 1 under different environmental conditions. For example, in high-temperature or very low-temperature environments, battery pack 1 is expected to have good heat retention performance, reducing the heat exchange efficiency between the environment and the electrochemical cell, thereby reducing the probability that the temperature of battery pack 1 will deviate from the optimal temperature range of battery pack 1 due to the influence of ambient temperature. When the temperature of battery pack 1 is high (e.g., after rapid charging) and the ambient temperature is low, good heat retention hinders heat dissipation of battery pack 1, resulting in increased energy consumption of the heat exchange component.

[0071] To address the aforementioned problems, embodiments of this application provide a heat exchanger and a thermal management system to which the heat exchanger is applied, balancing the heat exchange or heat retention requirements of a battery pack under different environmental conditions and improving the performance and operational safety of the battery pack. The heat exchanger and thermal management system will be described below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0072] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an assembled heat exchanger and heat exchange element according to one embodiment of the present application. In this embodiment of the present application, the heat exchanger 4 may be positioned on one side of the heat exchange element and make thermal conduction contact with the heat exchange element to perform heat exchange or heat retention on the heat exchange element. For example, the heat exchange element may be a vehicle battery pack 1 or another element that requires heat exchange or heat retention. This is not particularly limited in the present application. Based on this, the heat exchanger provided in the embodiments of the present application may be applied to the vehicle field or to another field related to heat exchange. This is also not particularly limited in the present application. In the following embodiments, for illustrative purposes, we will mainly use the example in which the heat exchange element is a battery pack 1.

[0073] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the heat exchanger and heat-exchanged elements in their assembled state as shown in Figure 2, and Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the heat exchanger shown in Figure 2. The heat exchanger 4 may include a housing 410 and a spacer plate 420 disposed within the housing 410. The spacer plate 420 separates the housing 410 into two cavities: a first cavity 411 and a second cavity 412. The first cavity 411 is provided with a first inlet 4111 and a first outlet 4112, and the second cavity 412 is provided with a second inlet 4121 and a second outlet 4122, so that the heat exchange medium can circulate through the first cavity 411 and the second cavity 412 to exchange heat with the battery pack 1.

[0074] The heat exchange medium circulating within the first cavity 411 may be a coolant, i.e., the first cavity 411 may be a coolant-containing cavity. In this case, the outer wall of the first cavity 411 on the side away from the second cavity 412 may be in direct or indirect thermal conduction contact with the battery pack 1, and the coolant may enter the first cavity 411 through the first inlet 4111, perform convective heat exchange with the wall surface of the first cavity 411, and then flow out from the first outlet 4112. In addition, the first cavity 411 exchanges heat with the battery pack 1 in a heat transfer manner, further transferring the cooling capacity of the coolant or heat to the battery pack 1 to cool or heat the battery pack 1.

[0075] A coolant runner may be placed within the first cavity 411. One end of the coolant runner communicates with the first inlet 4111, and the other end communicates with the first outlet 4112. For example, in some implementations, the coolant runner may be distributed in a snake shape or a spiral shape. As the coolant flows through the coolant runner, the cooling capacity or heat carried by the coolant is uniformly transferred to the first cavity 411, and then uniformly transferred to the battery pack 1 by using the first cavity 411, thereby improving the heat dissipation or heating effect of the battery pack 1.

[0076] In some other implementations, a first flow combination cavity and a second flow combination cavity may be separately located within the first cavity 411. The first inlet 4111 communicates with the first flow combination cavity, and the first outlet 4112 communicates with the second flow combination cavity. In this case, there may be multiple coolant runners, which are arranged in parallel between the first and second flow combination cavities. A first flow dividing port is individually located within the first flow combination cavity at a position corresponding to each coolant runner, and a second flow dividing port is individually located within the second flow combination cavity at a position corresponding to each coolant runner, with the two ends of each coolant runner connected to the corresponding first and second flow dividing ports, respectively. In this way, the coolant enters the first flow mixing cavity from the first inlet 4111, flows into each coolant runner through the first diversion port of the first flow mixing cavity, exchanges heat evenly with the wall of the first cavity 411, then flows into the second flow mixing cavity through each second diversion port, and finally flows out from the first outlet 4112.

[0077] In this embodiment of the present application, there may be one or more first inlets 4111 and first outlets 4112, and the number of first inlets 4111 and first outlets 4112 may be the same or different. This is not limited in the present application. Figure 4 shows the case of one first inlet 4111 and one first outlet 4112. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present application. This figure shows the case where there are two first inlets 4111 and two first outlets 4112. The two first inlets 4111 and two first outlets 4112 are respectively located on two opposing sides of the first cavity 411 to facilitate communication with the first flow mixing cavity and the second flow mixing cavity on the two sides. The heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange device 4 is improved by increasing the number of first inlets 4111 and first outlets 4112 to increase the flow rate of the coolant in the first cavity 411.

[0078] Refer again to Figures 3 and 4. In this embodiment, the second cavity 412 and the battery pack 1 are separated by the first cavity 411. Thus, the second cavity 412 and the battery pack 1 can indirectly contact in a heat-conductive manner. In one implementation configuration, the heat exchange medium circulating within the second cavity 412 may be air. In this case, the second cavity 412 is an air cavity. The first sealing element 4123 may be located at the second inlet, and the second sealing element 4124 may be located at the second outlet. The first sealing element 4123 may be configured to open and close the second inlet, and the second sealing element 4124 may be configured to open and close the second outlet. For example, the first sealing element 4123 and the second sealing element 4124 may be sealing plates. Optionally, the first sealing element 4123 may be rotatably mounted on the heat exchanger 4 by means of a rotating shaft, and the second inlet may be opened and closed as the first sealing element 4123 rotates around the rotating shaft. Alternatively, a sliding rail may be mounted at the location of the heat exchanger 4 corresponding to the second inlet, thereby mounting the first sealing element 4123 slidably on the sliding rail and opening and closing the second inlet as it slides along the sliding rail. Similarly, the second sealing element 4124 may be mounted rotatably or slidably on the heat exchanger 4. Further details are not described here.

[0079] When the first sealing element 4123 opens the second inlet and the second sealing element 4124 opens the second outlet, the second cavity 412 becomes aerated, and air from the bottom of the vehicle can enter the second cavity 412 through the second inlet, exchange heat with the walls of the second cavity 412 through convection, and then be discharged through the second outlet. In addition, the second cavity 412 indirectly exchanges heat with the battery pack 1 through the first cavity 411, further transferring the cooling capacity of the air or heat to the battery pack 1 to cool or heat the battery pack 1. When the first sealing element 4123 closes the second inlet and the second sealing element 4124 closes the second outlet, the second cavity 412 becomes closed. In this case, the second cavity 412 can form a closed cavity. By taking advantage of the low thermal conductivity of air, the second cavity 412 can thermally isolate the battery pack 1 from the outside air to some extent, thereby reducing the influence of external high or low temperatures on the battery pack 1 under certain operating conditions and achieving a heat retention effect on the battery pack 1.

[0080] In some implementations, the second inlet and second outlet may be located on two opposing sides of the second cavity 412, respectively, or the second inlet and second outlet may be understood to be located opposite each other. This helps to increase the air circulation velocity within the second cavity 412 in the ventilated state and can further improve the heat exchange efficiency between the second cavity 412 and the battery pack 1.

[0081] In addition, a plurality of fins 421 may be arranged on the side of the spacer plate 420 facing the interior of the second cavity 412, and the ends of the fins 421 away from the spacer plate 420 are spaced apart from the inner wall of the second cavity 412 on the side away from the first cavity 411, i.e., a certain gap may exist between the ends of the fins 421 and the inner wall of the second cavity 412. These fins 421 can be used as ribs to increase the strength and rigidity of the heat exchanger 4, reduce the possibility of the heat exchanger 4 bending, and avoid situations where the heat conduction contact effect between the heat exchanger 4 and the battery pack 1 is affected. In addition, by arranging the fins 421, the effective contact area between the second cavity 412 and the air can be increased, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the second cavity 412 and the air. Thus, the heat exchange effect of the heat exchanger 4 can be further improved. In one implementation configuration, the multiple fins 421 extend separately in the direction from the second inlet to the second outlet, that is, in the direction of air circulation within the second cavity 412, thereby reducing obstructions to the airflow, and allowing the air to flow smoothly and efficiently within the second cavity 412.

[0082] To improve the sealing effect of the second cavity 412 in the closed state, a first sealing ring may be positioned at the end of the second inlet. When the first sealing element 4123 closes the second inlet, the first sealing ring is compressed between the first sealing element 4123 and the end of the second inlet, which can reduce the risk of air leakage at the second inlet. Similarly, a second sealing ring may be positioned at the end of the second outlet. When the second sealing element 4124 closes the second outlet, the second sealing ring is compressed between the second sealing element 4124 and the end of the second outlet, which can reduce the risk of air leakage at the second outlet.

[0083] In some embodiments, the second cavity 412 may be further provided with a vacuum exhaust port 4125. When the second cavity 412 is closed, the air inside the second cavity 412 can be exhausted by using the vacuum exhaust port 4125, thereby making the second cavity 412 a vacuum cavity. It should be understood that the thermal conductivity of air decreases with increasing vacuum in the second cavity 412. Therefore, changing the second cavity 412 to a vacuum state through extraction further improves the heat retention effect of the second cavity 412 and reduces the impact of external high or low temperatures on the battery pack 1.

[0084] When the vacuum exhaust port 4125 is specifically positioned, it may be positioned directly on the wall of the second cavity 412 facing away from the first cavity 411. Alternatively, referring to Figure 4, the vacuum exhaust port 4125 may be positioned on the wall of the first cavity 411 facing away from the second cavity 412. In this case, an extension tube may be positioned within the housing 410, with one end of the extension tube connected to the vacuum exhaust port 4125 and the other end passing through the first cavity 411 and then extending into the second cavity 412, thereby connecting the second cavity 412 to the vacuum exhaust port 4125.

[0085] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of another heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present application, and Figure 7 is a partially enlarged view of position A in Figure 6. In this embodiment, an insulating member 422 may be further positioned at the end of the fin 421 facing away from the spacer plate 420. The material of the insulating member 422 includes, but is not limited to, mica, polystyrene, or polyurethane. The insulating member 422 is supported between the fin 421 and the inner wall of the second cavity 412 and further improves the structural strength of the heat exchanger 4 without affecting the heat retention performance of the second cavity 412 in the closed state. The insulating member 422 may be positioned in a one-to-one correspondence with each fin 421, or between one or more of the fins 421 and the inner wall of the second cavity 412. This is not particularly limited in the present application.

[0086] In addition, a first insulation layer 4126 may be laid on the inner wall of the second cavity 412 on the side away from the first cavity 411. The material of the first insulation layer 4126 includes, but is not limited to, aluminum foil, aerogel, or polyurethane foam. When the second cavity 412 is closed, the first insulation layer 4126 can reduce heat transfer between the second cavity 412 and the external environment, reduce the thermal conductivity of the second cavity 412 in the thickness direction of the second cavity 412, and help improve the heat retention effect of the second cavity 412. Similarly, a second insulation layer 4127 may be further placed on the outer wall of the second cavity 412 on the side away from the first cavity 411 to further reduce heat transfer between the second cavity 412 and the external environment. For example, the material of the second insulation layer 4127 includes, but is not limited to, aerogel or polyurethane foam.

[0087] From the above description, it can be seen that, according to the heat exchanger 4 provided in this embodiment, the open and closed states of the second inlet and second outlet can be adjusted, thereby switching the second cavity 412 between a ventilated state and a closed state to meet the heat exchange or heat retention requirements of the battery pack under different environmental conditions, and improving the performance and safety of use of the battery pack. For example, when the temperature of the battery pack is high but the ambient temperature is low, the second cavity 412 can be adjusted to a ventilated state to dissipate heat from the battery pack by using a natural cooling source, thereby achieving heat dissipation to the battery pack while reducing the energy consumption of the heat exchanger 4. When the temperature of the battery pack is within an appropriate temperature range but the ambient temperature is low or high, the second cavity 412 can be adjusted to a closed state to reduce the influence of the external ambient temperature on the battery pack and to achieve a heat retention function for the battery pack.

[0088] Referring to Figure 8, one embodiment of the present application further provides a heat exchange device 110 including the heat exchanger described above. The heat exchange device 110 may further include a drive component 5. The drive component 5 may be configured to drive a first sealing element 4123 to open and close a second inlet and a second sealing element 4124 to open and close a second outlet, thereby reducing the difficulty of switching the second cavity between a ventilated and closed state.

[0089] For example, if the first sealing element 4123 is rotatably positioned on the heat exchanger 4 by using a rotating shaft, the output shaft of the drive component 5 is connected to the rotating shaft via a transmission to drive the rotating shaft to rotate, thereby driving the first sealing element 4123 to rotate synchronously and open and close the second inlet. If the first sealing element 4123 is slidably positioned on the heat exchanger 4, the heat exchanger 4 may further include a transmission component, such as a lead screw, gear, or rack, which can convert rotational motion into linear motion, and the output shaft of the drive component 5 is connected to the first sealing element 4123 via a transmission by using such a transmission component to drive the first sealing element 4123 to open and close the second inlet in a sliding process. For the transmission connection method between the drive component 5 and the second sealing element 4124, please refer to the first sealing element 4123. Details are not described here.

[0090] In this embodiment of the present application, the first sealing element 4123 and the second sealing element 4124 may be driven by the same drive component 5, or they may be driven by separate drive components 5, or multiple drive components may be configured for each sealing element. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the first sealing element 4123 and the second sealing element 4124 are driven by two drive components 5, respectively. This helps to improve the reliability of driving the first sealing element 4123 and the second sealing element 4124. The drive component 5 may include two independent parts configured to drive the first sealing element 4123 and the second sealing element 4124, respectively, or it may be a drive component arranged as a whole that drives both the first sealing element 4123 and the second sealing element 4124.

[0091] Based on the heat exchange device provided in the embodiments described above, one embodiment of the present application further provides a thermal management system 100. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a thermal management system according to one embodiment of the present application. In this embodiment, in addition to the heat exchange device 110, the thermal management system may further include a compressor 120, a condenser 130, a cooler 140, an expansion valve 150, and a circulation pump 160. The cooler 140 may be a dual-runner heat exchanger, for example, a plate heat exchanger. The cooler 140 may include a first runner 141 and a second runner 142. The first runner 141 and the second runner 142 are isolated from each other and can be used for heat exchange.

[0092] Referring to both Figures 8 and 9, in a particular configuration, the outlet of the compressor 120 may be connected to the inlet of the condenser 130, the outlet of the condenser 130 may be connected to the inlet of the first runner 141 of the cooler 140 through the expansion valve 150, and the outlet of the first runner 141 of the cooler 140 may be connected to the inlet of the compressor 120. In this case, the compressor 120, the condenser 130, the expansion valve 150, and the first runner 141 of the cooler 140 may be connected in sequence to form a first circulation loop. In addition, the outlet of the circulation pump 160 may be connected to the first inlet 4111 of the first cavity, the first outlet 4112 of the first cavity may be connected to the inlet of the second runner 142 of the cooler 140, and the outlet of the second runner 142 of the cooler 140 may be connected to the inlet of the circulation pump 160. In this case, the circulation pump 160, the first cavity 411 of the heat exchanger 4, and the second runner 142 of the cooler 140 can be connected in sequence to form a second circulation loop. For example, the working medium in the first circulation loop may be a refrigerant, such as R134a, R1234yf, or R744, and the heat exchange medium in the second circulation loop may be a coolant, such as an aqueous glycol solution.

[0093] In some embodiments, the first and second circulation loops can work together to dissipate heat from the battery pack 1. In this case, the thermal management system 100 is in liquid cooling mode. The compressor 120 drives the coolant to circulate within the first circulation loop. The coolant evaporates and exchanges heat with the hot coolant in the second runner 142 in the first runner 141 of the cooler 140, after which its temperature rises and it changes into a low-pressure gaseous state. After entering the compressor 120, the heated gaseous coolant is compressed through the compressor 120 into a high-temperature, high-pressure gas, which then enters the condenser 130. In the condenser 130, the gas condenses and exchanges heat with the external environment, becoming a low-temperature, high-pressure liquid. Subsequently, the liquid is condensed and expands through the expansion valve 150 for rapid cooling, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid, which then re-enters the first runner 141 of the cooler 140, where it exchanges heat with the high-temperature coolant in the second runner 142, completing one cycle. In addition, the circulation pump 160 drives the coolant to circulate within the second circulation loop. The high-temperature coolant in the second runner 142 of the cooler 140 exchanges heat with the low-temperature coolant in the first runner 141 for cooling, and then, under the drive of the circulation pump 160, enters the first cavity 411 of the heat exchanger 4, where it evaporates and exchanges heat with the battery pack 1, absorbing heat from the battery pack 1 and rising in temperature, and then re-enters the second runner 142 of the cooler 140, where it exchanges heat with the low-temperature coolant in the first runner 141. The battery pack 1 is cooled by transferring heat to the heat exchanger 4.

[0094] In some other embodiments, the thermal management system 100 may perform heat dissipation to the battery pack 1 by using a natural cooling source, i.e., the thermal management system 100 performs heat dissipation to the battery pack 1 in air-cooled mode. In this case, the second cavity 412 may be adjusted to an air-ventilated state, the compressor 120 and circulation pump 160 may be turned off, thereby stopping the operation of the first and second circulation loops. Air from the bottom of the vehicle may enter the second cavity 412 and perform convective heat exchange with the walls of the second cavity 412, and the second cavity 412 may indirectly exchange heat with the battery pack 1 via the first cavity 411 to further transfer the cooling capacity of the air to the battery pack 1 and cool the battery pack 1.

[0095] Indeed, in some other implementations, the thermal management system 100 may perform heat dissipation to the battery pack in a combined liquid-cooling and air-cooling mode. For example, when the temperature of the battery pack 1 is high, but the ambient temperature is lower than the temperature of the coolant entering the first cavity 411, the second cavity 412 may be adjusted to a ventilated state and the compressor 120 and circulation pump 160 may be turned on. In this case, the ambient temperature is low. Thus, the heat dissipation effect of the heat exchanger 4 to the battery pack 1 can be improved, and the energy consumption of the first and second circulation loops can be reduced.

[0096] The thermal management system 100 can not only dissipate heat from the battery pack 1, but also maintain and heat the battery pack 1. The heat maintenance function can be achieved by adjusting the second cavity 412 to a closed state, and the heating function can be achieved by placing the heater 170 in the second circulation loop. In one implementation, the heater 170 can be connected between the first cavity 411 and the second runner 142 of the cooler 140. When the temperature of the battery pack 1 is low, the compressor 120 can be turned off, and the circulation pump 160 and heater 170 are turned on. In this case, the first circulation loop stops operating, the circulation pump 160 drives the coolant to circulate in the second circulation loop, and the second runner 142 of the cooler 140 corresponds to the path. The low-temperature coolant is heated in the heater 170, then enters the first cavity 411 of the heat exchanger 4 under the drive of the circulation pump 160, where it condenses and exchanges heat with the battery pack 1, transferring heat to the battery pack 1, and then enters the heater 170 again for heating. In addition, the battery pack 1 is heated by absorbing the heat from the coolant.

[0097] When the temperature of the battery pack 1 is low but the ambient temperature is high, it is understood that the thermal management system 100 will heat the battery pack 1 using a natural heat source. In this case, the second cavity 412 may be adjusted to a ventilated state, the compressor 120 and circulation pump 160 may be turned off, thereby stopping the operation of the first and second circulation loops. Air from the bottom of the vehicle may enter the second cavity 412 and undergo convective heat exchange with the walls of the second cavity 412, and the second cavity 412 may indirectly exchange heat with the battery pack 1 via the first cavity 411, further transferring heat from the air to the battery pack 1 and heating the battery pack 1.

[0098] As described above, when the temperature of the battery pack is within an appropriate temperature range, but the ambient temperature is low or high, the second cavity 412 may be adjusted to a closed state, thereby enabling the heat exchanger 4 to provide a heat retention function for the battery pack 1. In addition, to improve the heat retention effect, the second cavity 412 may be changed to a vacuum state through extraction by using the vacuum exhaust port 4125 located in the second cavity 412. Referring to both Figures 8 and 10, Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another thermal management system according to one embodiment of the present application. The thermal management system may further include a vacuum pump 180. The intake port of the vacuum pump 180 is connected to the vacuum exhaust port 4125 of the second cavity 412, so that air in the second cavity 412 can be extracted when the second cavity 412 is in a closed state.

[0099] In some possible embodiments, the thermal management system 100 may further include a vacuum gauge 190, which may be configured to detect the degree of vacuum in the second cavity 412. In this case, a vacuum gauge interface 4128 communicating with the second cavity 412 may be located on the housing 410, and the vacuum gauge 190 is installed on the vacuum gauge interface 4128. Similar to the vacuum exhaust port 4125, the vacuum gauge interface 4128 may be located directly on the wall of the second cavity 412 facing away from the first cavity 411, or on the wall of the first cavity 411 facing away from the second cavity 412, and connected to the second cavity 412 by using an extension tube that penetrates the first cavity 411. By installing the vacuum gauge 190, the vacuum level in the second cavity 412 in the closed state can be detected in real time, thereby allowing the on / off state of the vacuum pump 180 to be adjusted based on the vacuum level in the second cavity 412.

[0100] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the control principle of a thermal management system according to one embodiment of the present application. Referring to both Figure 10 and Figure 11, in this embodiment of the present application, the thermal management system 100 may further include a controller and a temperature sensing device. The temperature sensing device may be configured to detect the ambient temperature and the temperature of the battery pack 1. The controller is separately connected to the compressor 120, circulation pump 160, expansion valve 150, vacuum pump 180, vacuum gauge 190, drive component 5, and temperature sensing device, and can adjust the operating mode of the thermal management system 100 by adjusting the operating state of the aforementioned components based on the ambient temperature and the temperature of the battery pack 1. In one implementation, the compressor 120, circulation pump 160, expansion valve 150, vacuum pump 180, vacuum gauge 190, drive component 5, and temperature sensing device are connected to a local interconnection network to implement communication functions between them. (L (IN) Bus or Controller Area Network (C The controller may be connected by using the bus. In addition, the controller of the thermal management system 100 may be further connected to another controller by using the vehicle's bus in order to communicate with another controller in the vehicle, for example, the vehicle control unit. (V It may be connected to a CU, domain controller, in-vehicle computer, or in-vehicle communication box. The bus may be an Ethernet® bus, a CAN bus, etc.

[0101] In this embodiment of the present application, the temperature of the battery pack 1 can be classified into three temperature intervals: a first temperature interval, a second temperature interval, and a third temperature interval. The first temperature interval can be understood as a suitable temperature interval for the battery pack 1, or an optimal temperature interval in which the battery pack 1 can maintain excellent performance. For example, the first temperature interval may be in the range of 20°C to 35°C. The second temperature interval is a temperature interval in which the temperature value is less than the minimum value in the first temperature interval. For example, the second temperature interval may be an interval in which the temperature value is less than 20°C. The third temperature interval is a temperature interval in which the temperature value is greater than the maximum value in the first temperature interval. For example, the third temperature interval may be an interval in which the temperature value is greater than 35°C. Referring again to Figures 8 and 10, some operating modes of the thermal management system 100 that exist when the temperature of the battery pack is within the aforementioned temperature intervals will be described below in detail with reference to ambient temperature.

[0102] When the temperature of battery pack 1 is within a suitable first temperature range, two control modes may be used. One mode does not take ambient temperature into consideration, and the other mode implements a different control policy by taking ambient temperature into consideration. First, let's consider the case where ambient temperature is not considered. In this case, battery pack 1 is already within its appropriate temperature range. Therefore, the controller can control the compressor 120 and circulation pump 160 to turn off, control the drive component 5 to drive the first sealing element 4123 to close the second inlet, drive the second sealing element 4124 to close the second outlet, adjust the second cavity 412 to a closed state, and perform heat retention on battery pack 1 by using the heat exchanger 4, thereby keeping battery pack 1 within its appropriate temperature range.

[0103] In addition, when the second cavity 412 is closed, the controller may further control the vacuum pump 180 to turn on, thereby changing the second cavity 412 to a vacuum state through extraction and improving the heat retention effect of the second cavity 412. When the vacuum level in the second cavity 412 is above a vacuum threshold, the vacuum pump 180 is controlled to turn off. The vacuum threshold may be set based on the heat retention requirements or experience of the battery pack 1. This is not particularly limited in this application. In the following operating modes, when the second cavity 412 is closed, the vacuum level in the second cavity 412 may be controlled based on the logic described above. Details are not described.

[0104] When considering ambient temperature, if the temperature of the battery pack 1 is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, the controller may adjust the second cavity 412 to a closed state by controlling the compressor 120 and circulation pump 160 to turn off, driving the first sealing element 4123 to close the second inlet, and driving the second sealing element 4124 to close the second outlet. The first temperature threshold does not have to be greater than the minimum value in the first temperature range. For example, the first temperature threshold may be 20°C or less. In this case, the ambient temperature is low. Therefore, the second cavity 412 is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the battery pack 1 from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of low external temperatures on the battery pack 1.

[0105] When the temperature of the battery pack 1 is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold and below a second temperature threshold, the controller may control the compressor 120 and the circulation pump 160 to turn off, drive the first sealing element 4123 to open the second inlet, and drive the second sealing element 4124 to open the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity 412 to a ventilated state. The second temperature threshold does not have to be greater than the maximum value in the first temperature range. For example, the second temperature threshold may be 35°C or less. In this state, there is no significant difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the battery pack 1. Therefore, the second cavity 412 is adjusted to a ventilated state, which helps to keep the battery pack 1 within an appropriate temperature range.

[0106] When the temperature of the battery pack 1 is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is greater than a second temperature threshold, the controller may control the compressor 120 and circulation pump 160 to turn on, control the drive component 5 to drive the first sealing element 4123 to close the second inlet, and drive the second sealing element 4124 to close the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity 412 to a closed state. In this state, the external ambient temperature is high. Therefore, heat dissipation can be performed on the battery pack 1 in liquid cooling mode, and the second cavity 412 is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the battery pack 1 from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of high external temperatures on the battery pack 1.

[0107] When the temperature of the battery pack 1 is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the battery pack temperature is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold, the controller may adjust the second cavity 412 to a ventilated state by controlling the compressor 120 and circulation pump 160 to turn off, driving the first sealing element 4123 to open the second inlet, and driving the second sealing element 4124 to open the second outlet. The temperature difference threshold may be determined based on the temperature control requirements or experience of the battery pack 1, and is not limited to this application. For example, in this embodiment, the temperature difference threshold may be 2°C. In this state, the temperature of the battery pack 1 is low, and the ambient temperature is significantly higher than the temperature of the battery pack 1. Therefore, the second cavity 412 may be adjusted to a ventilated state in order to heat the battery pack 1 by using a natural heat source.

[0108] When the temperature of the battery pack 1 is within the second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the battery pack temperature is less than the temperature difference threshold, the controller may adjust the second cavity 412 to a closed state by controlling the drive component 5 to drive the first sealing element 4123 to close the second inlet and the second sealing element 4124 to close the second outlet. In this state, the temperature of the battery pack 1 is low and the ambient temperature is close to the temperature of the battery pack 1. Therefore, the second cavity 412 is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the battery pack 1 from the outside air and reducing the effect of low external temperatures on the battery pack 1. In this case, if the temperature of the battery pack 1 is excessively low, the controller may control the compressor 120 to turn off and the circulation pump 160 and heater 170 to turn on, thereby heating the battery pack 1 using the heater 170, which allows the battery pack 1 to operate normally.

[0109] When the temperature of the battery pack 1 is within a third temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, the controller may control the compressor 120 and the circulation pump 160 to turn on, and control the drive component 5 to drive the first sealing element 4123 to open the second inlet and the second sealing element 4124 to open the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity 412 to a ventilated state. In this state, the temperature of the battery pack 1 is high and the ambient temperature is low. Therefore, in order to make full use of the natural cooling source, heat dissipation to the battery pack 1 may be performed in a combined liquid cooling and air cooling mode, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the thermal management system 100 while achieving heat dissipation to the battery pack 1.

[0110] When the temperature of the battery pack 1 is within the third temperature range and the ambient temperature is above the first temperature threshold, the controller may control the compressor 120 and the circulation pump 160 to turn on, control the drive component 5 to drive the first sealing element 4123 to close the second inlet, and drive the second sealing element 4124 to close the second outlet, thereby adjusting the second cavity 412 to a closed state. In this state, the ambient temperature is high. Therefore, the second cavity 412 may be adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the battery pack 1 from the outside air, and the compressor 120 and circulation pump 160 are turned on to perform separate heat dissipation from the battery pack 1 in liquid cooling mode, resulting in a good heat dissipation effect.

[0111] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another thermal management system according to one embodiment of the present application. In this embodiment, the thermal management system may further include a first vacuum valve 181 and a second vacuum valve 182. The first vacuum valve 181 may be connected between the intake port of a vacuum pump 180 and the vacuum exhaust port 4125 of a second cavity, and the second vacuum valve 182 may be connected between the intake port of the vacuum pump 180 and the vehicle's vacuum booster pump. That is, in this embodiment of the present application, the thermal management system 100 and the vehicle's vacuum booster braking system may reuse the same vacuum pump 180. The intake loop of the thermal management system 100 is connected in parallel to the intake loop of the braking system, and vacuum valves are positioned separately in these intake loops to control the two intake loops, helping to reduce the overall cost of the vehicle.

[0112] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another thermal management system according to one embodiment of the present application. The difference from the previously described embodiment is that in this embodiment, in the liquid-cooled mode of the thermal management system 100, the compressor is not used for cooling, and an air-cooled heat sink 1100 is used. In addition to the air-cooled heat sink 1100 and the heat exchange device 110, the thermal management system 100 may further include a circulation pump 160. In a particular arrangement, the outlet of the circulation pump 160 may be connected to the first inlet 4111 of the first cavity, the first outlet 4112 of the first cavity may be connected to the inlet of the air-cooled heat sink 1100, and the outlet of the air-cooled heat sink 1100 may be connected to the inlet of the circulation pump 160. In this way, the circulation pump 160, the first cavity of the heat exchange device 4, and the air-cooled heat sink 1100 may be connected in sequence to form a circulation loop. The heat exchange medium in the circulation loop may be a coolant.

[0113] When heat dissipation is performed on the battery pack 1, the circulation pump 160 circulates the coolant in a circulation loop. After entering the air-cooled heatsink 1100, the hot coolant flowing out from the first cavity of the heat exchanger 4 can perform cooling by directly exchanging heat with the air flowing over the surface of the air-cooled heatsink 1100. The cooled coolant then enters the first cavity again, evaporates, and exchanges heat with the battery pack 1. In this way, continuous heat dissipation can be performed on the battery pack 1. In this design, there is no need to arrange a first circulation loop, and heat dissipation of the coolant can be performed by using the features of the air-cooled heatsink 1100, which helps to simplify the structure of the thermal management system 100.

[0114] In some embodiments, a fan 1101 may be further provided on the air-cooled heatsink 1100 to increase the airflow rate over the surface of the air-cooled heatsink 1100, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the air-cooled heatsink 1100.

[0115] Similar to the previously described embodiment, this embodiment may also include a heater 170 for heating the battery pack. In one implementation configuration, the heater 170 may be connected between the first cavity and the air-cooled heatsink 1100. When the temperature of the battery pack 1 is low, the fan 1101 is turned off and the circulation pump 160 and heater 170 are turned on. The circulation pump 160 drives the coolant to circulate in the loop. In this case, the air-cooled heatsink 1100 corresponds only to the path. The low-temperature coolant is heated in the heater 170 and then enters the first cavity of the heat exchanger 4 under the drive of the circulation pump 160, where it condenses and exchanges heat with the battery pack 1, transferring heat to the battery pack 1, and then enters the heater 170 again for heating. In addition, the battery pack 1 is heated by absorbing the heat of the coolant.

[0116] In addition, in this embodiment of the present application, a controller and a temperature sensing device are also provided to adjust the operating mode of the thermal management system by adjusting the operating state of the aforementioned components based on the ambient temperature and the temperature of the battery pack. Specific control logic may be set by reference to the embodiments described above. Details are not described herein.

[0117] Based on the same technical concept, one embodiment of this application further provides a control method for a thermal management system. For the structure of the thermal management system, please refer to the description in the above embodiments. Details are not described here. Referring to Figure 14, the control method may include the following steps.

[0118] Step S101: Obtain the temperature of the heat exchange element and the ambient temperature.

[0119] Step S102: Determine whether the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the first temperature range. If the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the first temperature range, steps S1021 to S1023 are performed.

[0120] Step S1021: When the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, control the compressor and circulation pump to turn them off, drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet, and drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet.

[0121] Step S1022: When the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold and below a second temperature threshold, the compressor and circulation pump are controlled to be turned off, the drive components are controlled to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and the second sealing element to open the second outlet.

[0122] Step S1023: When the ambient temperature is greater than the second temperature threshold, the drive components are controlled to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and to drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet.

[0123] The heat exchange element may be a vehicle battery pack or another element that requires heat dissipation or heat retention. This is not particularly limited in this application. The first temperature range is a suitable temperature range for the heat exchange element. For example, the first temperature range may be in the range of 20°C to 35°C. The first temperature threshold may not be greater than the minimum value in the first temperature range. For example, the first temperature threshold may be 20°C or less. The second temperature threshold may not be greater than the maximum value in the first temperature range. For example, the second temperature threshold may be 35°C or less.

[0124] When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the first temperature range and the ambient temperature is low, the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of low external temperatures on the heat exchange element. When there is no significant difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element, the second cavity is adjusted to a permeable state, helping to maintain the heat exchange element within its appropriate temperature range. When the ambient temperature is high, heat dissipation to the heat exchange element can be performed in liquid cooling mode, and the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of high external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0125] In addition, when the second cavity is closed, the vacuum pump may be further controlled to be turned on, thereby changing the second cavity to a vacuum state through extraction and improving the heat retention effect of the second cavity. When the vacuum level in the second cavity is above a vacuum threshold, the vacuum pump is controlled to be turned off. The vacuum threshold may be set based on the heat retention requirements of the heat exchange element or empirically. This is not particularly limited in this application. In the following control modes, when the second cavity is closed, the vacuum level in the second cavity may be controlled according to the method described above. Details are not described.

[0126] Referring to Figure 15, after step S101 is performed, the control method may further include the following steps.

[0127] Step S103: Determine whether the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the second temperature range. If the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the second temperature range, steps S1031 and S1032 are performed.

[0128] Step S1031: When the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold, the compressor and circulation pump are controlled to be turned off, the drive components are controlled to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and the second sealing element to open the second outlet.

[0129] Step S1032: When the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than the temperature difference threshold, the drive component is controlled to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and to drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet.

[0130] The second temperature interval is the interval in which the temperature value is less than the minimum value in the first temperature interval. For example, the second temperature interval may be the interval in which the temperature value is less than 20°C. In this interval, the temperature of the heat exchange element is low. When the ambient temperature is clearly higher than the temperature of the heat exchange element, the second cavity may be adjusted to an aerated state in order to heat the heat exchange element by using a natural heat source. When the ambient temperature is close to the temperature of the heat exchange element, the second cavity may be adjusted to a closed state so that the heat exchange element is thermally isolated from the outside air and the effect of low external temperatures on the heat exchange element can be reduced.

[0131] When the temperature of the heat exchange element is too low, step S1032 may further include: Control the compressor to turn off and the circulation pump and heater to turn on, thereby heating the heat exchange element by using the heater, and ensuring that the heat exchange element operates properly.

[0132] Referring to Figure 16, after step S101 is performed, the control method may further include the following steps.

[0133] Step S104: Determine whether the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the third temperature range. If the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the third temperature range, steps S1041 and S1042 are performed.

[0134] Step S1041: When the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, control the compressor and circulation pump to turn on, drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and drive the second sealing element to open the second outlet.

[0135] Step S1042: When the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold, control the compressor and circulation pump to turn on, drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet, and drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet.

[0136] The third temperature interval is a temperature interval in which the temperature value is greater than the maximum value in the first temperature interval. For example, the third temperature interval may be an interval in which the temperature value is greater than 35°C. In this interval, the temperature of the heat exchange element is high. When the ambient temperature is low, heat dissipation to the heat exchange element can be performed in a combined liquid cooling and air cooling mode to make full use of the natural cooling source, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the thermal management system while achieving heat dissipation to the heat exchange element. When the ambient temperature is high, the second cavity can be adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air, and the compressor and circulation pump are turned on to perform heat dissipation to the heat exchange element separately in liquid cooling mode, achieving a good heat dissipation effect.

[0137] Based on the same technical concept, one embodiment of this application further provides a control device for a thermal management system. For the structure of the thermal management system, please refer to the description in the above embodiments. Details are not described here. The control device may include a communication unit and a processing unit.

[0138] The communication unit is configured to acquire the temperature of the heat exchange element and the ambient temperature.

[0139] The processing unit is configured to control the drive components to turn off the compressor and circulation pump when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet, and to drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet; or to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold and below a second temperature threshold, to drive the drive components to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and to drive the second sealing element to open the second outlet; or to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and to drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a second temperature threshold.

[0140] The heat exchange element may be a vehicle battery pack or another element that requires heat dissipation or heat retention. This is not particularly limited in this application. The first temperature range is a suitable temperature range for the heat exchange element. For example, the first temperature range may be in the range of 20°C to 35°C. The first temperature threshold may not be greater than the minimum value in the first temperature range. For example, the first temperature threshold may be 20°C or less. The second temperature threshold may not be greater than the maximum value in the first temperature range. For example, the second temperature threshold may be 35°C or less.

[0141] When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the first temperature range and the ambient temperature is low, the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of low external temperatures on the heat exchange element. When there is no significant difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element, the second cavity is adjusted to a permeable state, helping to maintain the heat exchange element within its appropriate temperature range. When the ambient temperature is high, heat dissipation to the heat exchange element can be performed in liquid cooling mode, and the second cavity is adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air and reducing the adverse effects of high external temperatures on the heat exchange element.

[0142] In addition, the processing unit may be further configured to control the vacuum pump to turn on when the second cavity is closed, thereby changing the second cavity to a vacuum state through extraction and improving the heat retention effect of the second cavity, and to control the vacuum pump to turn off when the vacuum level in the second cavity is above a vacuum threshold.

[0143] In some embodiments, the processing unit may be further configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet and drive the second sealing element to open the second outlet, or to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than a temperature difference threshold.

[0144] The second temperature interval is a temperature interval in which the temperature value is less than the minimum value in the first temperature interval. For example, the second temperature interval may be an interval in which the temperature value is less than 20°C. In this interval, the temperature of the heat exchange element is low. When the ambient temperature is clearly higher than the temperature of the heat exchange element, the second cavity may be adjusted to an aerated state in order to heat the heat exchange element by using a natural heat source. When the ambient temperature is close to the temperature of the heat exchange element, the second cavity may be adjusted to a closed state so that the heat exchange element is thermally isolated from the outside air and the effect of low external temperatures on the heat exchange element can be reduced. In addition, when the temperature of the heat exchange element is excessively low, the processing unit may be further configured to heat the heat exchange element by using the heater by controlling the compressor to turn off and the circulation pump and heater to turn on, thereby ensuring that the heat exchange element operates normally.

[0145] In some embodiments, the processing unit may be further configured to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn on when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a third temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet and the second sealing element to open the second outlet; or to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn on when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a third temperature range and the ambient temperature is above the first temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and the second sealing element to close the second outlet.

[0146] The third temperature interval is a temperature interval in which the temperature value is greater than the maximum value in the first temperature interval. For example, the third temperature interval may be an interval in which the temperature value is greater than 35°C. In this interval, the temperature of the heat exchange element is high. When the ambient temperature is low, heat dissipation to the heat exchange element can be performed in a combined liquid cooling and air cooling mode to make full use of the natural cooling source, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the thermal management system while achieving heat dissipation to the heat exchange element. When the ambient temperature is high, the second cavity can be adjusted to a closed state, thereby thermally isolating the heat exchange element from the outside air, and the compressor and circulation pump are turned on to perform heat dissipation to the heat exchange element separately in liquid cooling mode, achieving a good heat dissipation effect.

[0147] Referring to Figure 17, based on the same technical concept, one embodiment of the present application further provides a computing device 1000. The computing device 1000 may be a chip or a chip system. Optionally, in this embodiment of the present application, the chip system may include a chip or include a chip and another separate device.

[0148] The computing device 1000 may include at least one processor 1110. The processor 1110 is coupled to memory. Optionally, the memory may be located in the computing device, integrated with the processor, or located outside the device. For example, the computing device 1000 may further include at least one memory 1120. The memory 1120 stores computer programs, configuration information, computer programs or instructions, and / or data necessary to implement any one of the embodiments described above. The processor 1110 may execute the computer program stored in the memory 1120 to complete the method in any one of the embodiments described above.

[0149] The computing device 1000 may further include a communication interface 1130, which may exchange information with another device via the communication interface 1130. For example, the communication interface 1130 may be a transceiver, a circuit, a bus, a module, a pin, or another type of communication interface. If the computing device 1000 is a chip-type device or circuit, Computing device 1000 The internal communication interface 1130 may be an input / output circuit that can input (or receive) information and output (or transmit) information, and the processor may be an integrated processor, a microprocessor, an integrated circuit, or a logic circuit, and the processor may determine output information based on input information.

[0150] The coupling in this embodiment of the present application is an indirect coupling or communication connection between devices, units, or modules, which may be in an electrical, mechanical, or other form, and is used for information exchange between devices, units, or modules. The processor 1110 may cooperate with the memory 1120 and the communication interface 1130. The specific connecting medium between the processor 1110, the memory 1120, and the communication interface 1130 is not limited to this embodiment of the present application.

[0151] Optionally, referring to Figure 17, the processor 1110, memory 1120, and communication interface 1130 are connected to each other by using bus 1140. Bus 1140 is used for peripheral component interconnection. (PC I) Bus, extended industry standard architecture (E This could be an ISA bus, for example. Buses can be classified into address buses, data buses, control buses, etc. For the sake of simplicity, only one thick line is used to represent a bus in Figure 17, but this does not mean that there is only one type of bus or only one bus.

[0152] In this embodiment of the present application, the processor may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array or another programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic device, or a discrete hardware component that can implement or perform the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams in the embodiments of the present application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, any conventional processor, etc. The steps of the methods provided by reference to embodiments of the present application may be performed directly by the hardware processor or by using a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0153] In this embodiment of the present application, the memory is a non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive. (H DD) or Solid State Drive (S SD) is possible, and alternatively, volatile memo Ri, For example, random access memory (R Memory may also be AM. Memory is any other medium that can be configured to carry or store program code expected in the form of instructions or data structures and can be accessed by a computer. However, it is not limited to this. Memory in this embodiment of the application may alternatively be a circuit or any other device that can implement a storage function and is configured to store program instructions and / or data.

[0154] In possible implementations, the computing device 1000 may be applied to a transmitting end. Specifically, the computing device 1000 may be a transmitting end, or a device that can support a transmitting end when implementing the functions of a transmitting end in any one of the embodiments described above. The memory 1120 stores computer programs, computer programs or instructions, and / or data necessary to implement the functions of a transmitting end in any one of the embodiments described above. The processor 1110 may execute the computer programs stored in the memory 1120 to complete the methods performed by the transmitting end in any one of the embodiments described above. In the case of application to a transmitting end, the communication interface within the computing device 1000 may be configured to interact with a receiving end, for example, by transmitting information to the receiving end.

[0155] In another possible implementation, the computing device 1000 may be applied to a receiving end. Specifically, the computing device 1000 may be a receiving end, or a device that can support a receiving end when implementing the functions of a receiving end in any one of the embodiments described above. The memory 1120 stores computer programs, computer programs or instructions, and / or data necessary to implement the functions of a receiving end in any one of the embodiments described above. The processor 1110 may execute the computer programs stored in the memory 1120 to complete the methods performed by the receiving end in any one of the embodiments described above. In the case of application to a receiving end, the communication interface within the computing device 1000 may be configured to interact with the transmitting end, for example, to receive information from the transmitting end.

[0156] The computing device 1000 provided in this embodiment may be applied to a transmitting end to complete a method performed by the transmitting end, or it may be applied to a receiving end to complete a method performed by the receiving end. Therefore, for technical effects that can be achieved by the computing device 1000, please refer to the embodiments of the method described above. Further details are not described here.

[0157] Based on the embodiments described above, one embodiment of the present application further provides a computer program. When the computer program is executed on a computer, the computer is able to carry out the methods provided in the embodiments shown in Figures 14 to 16.

[0158] Based on the embodiments described above, one embodiment of the present application further provides a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program. When the computer program is executed by the computer, the computer can carry out the methods provided in the embodiments shown in Figures 14 to 16. The storage medium can be any available medium that can be accessed by the computer. Examples are provided below, but are not limited to: the computer-readable medium is RAM, read-only memory (R OM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (E EPRO M) This may include CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, magnetic disk storage medium or other magnetic storage device, or alternatively any other medium that can be configured to carry or store expected program code in the form of instructions or data structures and can be accessed by a computer.

[0159] All or part of the technical solutions provided in embodiments of this application may be implemented using software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When software is used to implement the technical solution, all or part of the technical solution may be implemented in the form of a computer program product. A computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded into a computer and executed, all or part of the procedures or functions according to embodiments of this application are generated. The computer may be a general-purpose computer, a dedicated computer, a computer network, an access network device, a terminal device, or another programmable device. The computer instructions may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, computer instructions may be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via a wired connection (e.g., coaxial cable, optical fiber, or digital subscriber line). (D It may be transmitted by SL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, radio, or microwave). Computer-readable storage media may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, or a data storage device that integrates one or more available media, such as a server or data center. Available media may be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, or magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., digital video discs). (D This could be a VD (Volatile Digital) or a semiconductor medium.

[0160] The foregoing description represents only a specific implementation of this application, and the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any modifications or substitutions readily conceivable by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the art disclosed herein shall fall within the scope of protection of this application. Accordingly, the scope of protection of this application shall be subject to the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A heat exchange device comprising a housing and a spacer plate disposed within the housing, wherein the spacer plate separates the housing into a first cavity and a second cavity, the first cavity being a coolant-containing cavity and the second cavity being an air cavity. The outer wall of the first cavity, on the side away from the second cavity, is configured to make heat conduction contact with the heat exchange element, and the first cavity is provided with a first inlet and a first outlet. The second cavity is provided with a second inlet and a second outlet, and a first sealing element is provided at the second inlet, configured to open and close the second inlet to allow the second cavity to communicate with the outside air or to isolate it from the outside air, and a second sealing element is provided at the second outlet, configured to open and close the second outlet to allow the second cavity to communicate with the outside air or to isolate it from the outside air. heat exchange equipment.

2. A heat exchange device comprising a drive component and a heat exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the drive component is separately connected to a first sealing element and a second sealing element via a transmission, and the drive component is configured to drive the first sealing element to open and close a second inlet and to drive the second sealing element to open and close a second outlet.

3. The heat exchange device according to claim 2, wherein the second inlet and the second outlet are arranged facing each other.

4. The heat exchange device according to claim 3, wherein the spacer plate is provided with a plurality of fins extending toward the second cavity, and the ends of the fins facing away from the spacer plate are spaced apart from the inner wall of the second cavity on the side away from the first cavity.

5. The heat exchange device according to claim 4, wherein a heat insulating member is disposed at the ends of at least some of the fins that face away from the spacer plate, and the heat insulating member is supported between the corresponding fin and the inner wall of the second cavity.

6. A first sealing ring is positioned at the end of the second inlet, and when the first sealing element closes the second inlet, the first sealing ring is compressed between the first sealing element and the end of the second inlet, and / or A second sealing ring is positioned at the end of the second outlet, and when the second sealing element closes the second outlet, the second sealing ring is compressed between the second sealing element and the end of the second outlet. A heat exchange apparatus according to claim 1 or a heat exchange device according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. The heat exchange apparatus according to claim 1 or the heat exchange device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the housing is provided with a vacuum exhaust port that communicates with the second cavity.

8. A heat exchange apparatus according to claim 1 or a heat exchange device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein a first insulating layer is disposed on the inner wall of the second cavity on the side away from the first cavity, and / or a second insulating layer is disposed on the outer wall of the second cavity on the side away from the first cavity.

9. A thermal management system comprising a compressor, a condenser, a cooler, an expansion valve, a circulation pump, and the heat exchange device described in claim 2, wherein the cooler comprises a first runner and a second runner isolated from each other. The outlet of the compressor is connected to the inlet of the condenser, the outlet of the condenser is connected to the inlet of the first runner via the expansion valve, and the outlet of the first runner is connected to the inlet of the compressor. The outlet of the circulation pump is connected to the first inlet of the first cavity, the first outlet of the first cavity is connected to the inlet of the second runner, and the outlet of the second runner is connected to the inlet of the circulation pump. Thermal management system.

10. A vacuum exhaust port is provided in the second cavity. The thermal management system further comprises a vacuum pump, the intake port of the vacuum pump being connected to the vacuum exhaust port, and the vacuum pump being configured to extract air from the second cavity when a first sealing element closes a second inlet and a second sealing element closes a second outlet. The thermal management system according to claim 9.

11. The system further comprises a temperature detection device and a controller, wherein the temperature detection device is configured to detect the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element, and the controller is electrically connected separately to the compressor, the circulation pump, the drive components, and the temperature detection device. When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the first temperature range, the compressor and the circulation pump are controlled to be turned off, the first sealing element is driven to close the second inlet, and the second sealing element is driven to close the second outlet. A thermal management system according to claim 10, configured as described above.

12. The system further comprises a temperature detection device and a controller, wherein the temperature detection device is configured to detect the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element, and the controller is electrically connected separately to the compressor, the circulation pump, the drive components, and the temperature detection device. When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, control the compressor and the circulation pump to turn them off, drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet, and drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet, or control the drive components to do so. When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold and below a second temperature threshold, the compressor and the circulation pump are controlled to be turned off, the drive components are controlled to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and the second sealing element to open the second outlet, or When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the first temperature range and the ambient temperature is greater than the second temperature threshold, the compressor and the circulation pump are controlled to be turned on, the drive components are controlled to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet, and the second sealing element to close the second outlet. A thermal management system according to claim 10, configured as described above.

13. The aforementioned controller, When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is greater than or equal to a temperature difference threshold, the compressor and the circulation pump are controlled to be turned off, the first sealing element is driven to open the second inlet, and the second sealing element is driven to open the second outlet, or When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than the temperature difference threshold, the drive component is controlled to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet. It is further configured in this way, The second temperature interval is an interval in which the temperature value is smaller than the minimum temperature value in the first temperature interval. The thermal management system according to claim 12.

14. The system further comprises a heater, the heater being connected between the first cavity and the second runner, The controller is further electrically connected to the heater, and when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the second temperature range and the difference between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the heat exchange element is less than the temperature difference threshold, the controller The compressor is controlled to be turned off, and the circulation pump and the heater are controlled to be turned on. The thermal management system according to claim 13, further configured as follows.

15. The aforementioned controller, When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the third temperature range and the ambient temperature is below the first temperature threshold, the compressor and the circulation pump are controlled to be turned on, the drive components are controlled to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and the second sealing element to open the second outlet, or When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the third temperature range and the ambient temperature is above the first temperature threshold, the compressor and the circulation pump are controlled to be turned on, the first sealing element is driven to close the second inlet, and the second sealing element is driven to close the second outlet, thereby controlling the drive components. It is further configured in this way, The third temperature interval is an interval in which the temperature value is greater than the maximum temperature value in the first temperature interval. The thermal management system according to claim 14.

16. The thermal management system further comprises a vacuum gauge, which is configured to detect the degree of vacuum in the second cavity. The controller is further electrically connected to the vacuum pump and the vacuum gauge. The drive component controls the first sealing element to close the second inlet, the second sealing element to close the second outlet, and the vacuum pump to turn off when the vacuum level in the second cavity is above a vacuum threshold. A thermal management system according to any one of claims 11 to 15, configured as described above.

17. A thermal management system according to any one of claims 11 to 15, further comprising a first vacuum valve and a second vacuum valve, wherein the first vacuum valve is connected between the intake port and the vacuum exhaust port of the vacuum pump, and the second vacuum valve is connected between the intake port of the vacuum pump and a vacuum booster of a vehicle.

18. A control method for a thermal management system, used to control the thermal management system according to any one of claims 9 to 15, A step of obtaining the temperature of the heat exchange element and the ambient temperature, Steps to control the compressor and circulation pump to turn off when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, and to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet, When the temperature of the heat exchange element is within a first temperature range and the ambient temperature is above a first temperature threshold and below a second temperature threshold, the compressor and circulation pump are controlled to be turned off, the drive components are controlled to drive the first sealing element to open the second inlet, and the second sealing element to open the second outlet, or Steps to control the drive components to drive the first sealing element to close the second inlet and drive the second sealing element to close the second outlet when the temperature of the heat exchange element is within the first temperature range and the ambient temperature is greater than the second temperature threshold. A control method including

19. A vehicle comprising a heat exchange element and a thermal management system according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the thermal management system is configured to perform heat exchange with respect to the heat exchange element.

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