Energy storage system, energy storage module, and electric apparatus

Abstract

Disclosed in the present disclosure are an energy storage system, an energy storage module, and an electric apparatus. The energy storage system comprises a main heat exchange medium pipeline, a heat exchange unit, a self-sealing joint unit and at least one battery, wherein the battery comprises at least one battery cell, the heat exchange unit is used for exchanging heat with the battery cell, the heat exchange unit is provided with a heat exchange medium port for a heat exchange medium to enter and exit, and the heat exchange medium port is in communication with the main heat exchange medium pipeline via the self-sealing joint unit.

Description

Energy storage systems, energy storage modules and power consumption devices

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This disclosure is based on Chinese patent application number 202321913916.7, application date July 20, 2023, and invention name “Energy Storage System, Energy Storage Module and Electrical Device”, and claims the priority of the Chinese patent application. The entire content of the Chinese patent application is hereby incorporated into the present disclosure as a reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of new energy technologies, and in particular to an energy storage system, an energy storage module used in the energy storage system, and an electrical device. Background Art

[0004] New energy batteries are increasingly being used in everyday life and industry. Currently, batteries are not only widely used in new energy vehicles and ships, but are also increasingly being used in energy storage. For example, energy storage containers equipped with a large number of batteries are now commonplace in the market.

[0005] Energy storage systems, such as energy storage containers, are equipped with numerous batteries containing individual cells. Because batteries generate significant heat during operation, energy storage systems typically include cooling pipes for heat exchange with the individual cells to cool them. These cooling pipes are typically connected to a main coolant line, which in turn is connected to a liquid cooling unit that refrigerates the coolant in the line. Improving the efficiency of repairing, replacing, and disassembling batteries in energy storage containers is a challenge the industry is seeking to address.

[0006] Utility Model Content

[0007] To solve the above technical problems, the present disclosure provides an energy storage system, an energy storage module for the energy storage system, and an electrical device that helps reduce the time required for disassembly and assembly operations and facilitates disassembly and assembly operations.

[0008] The present disclosure is achieved through the following technical solutions.

[0009] A first aspect of the present disclosure provides an energy storage system, characterized in that it includes a heat exchange medium main line, a heat exchange unit, a self-sealing joint unit and at least one battery, the battery including at least one battery cell, the heat exchange unit being configured to exchange heat with the battery cell, the heat exchange unit being provided with a heat exchange medium port for entering and exiting a heat exchange medium, the heat exchange medium port being connected to the heat exchange medium main line via the self-sealing joint unit.

[0010] Since the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium main line via the self-sealing joint unit, when the heat exchange unit is disconnected from the heat exchange medium main line, the self-sealing joint unit can be mainly operated. Moreover, due to the self-sealing effect of the self-sealing joint unit, the heat exchange medium will not flow out from the heat exchange unit side and the heat exchange medium main line side. Therefore, when one or more batteries and the heat exchange units (also referred to as "heat exchange units to be removed") that perform heat exchange with them have to be removed from the energy storage system for the purpose of maintenance, replacement, transportation, etc., it is not necessary to waste time and effort to discharge all the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange unit to be removed and the heat exchange units connected to the heat exchange unit to be removed, or even the entire battery cluster. Instead, the heat exchange unit to be removed can be removed with the heat exchange medium sealed inside. As a result, the operation step of discharging the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange unit can be appropriately omitted, and the operation step of refilling the heat exchange unit with the heat exchange medium can also be omitted, simplifying the operation. In addition, the time required for disassembly and assembly operations, including discharging and refilling the heat exchange medium, is greatly reduced. Moreover, when transporting an energy storage system such as an energy storage container, a portion of the batteries and heat exchange units can be removed from the energy storage container by simply and easily disconnecting the self-sealing joint unit, thereby reducing the overall transportation weight. This can easily solve the problem of the energy storage container exceeding the load limit of the transportation vehicle and being difficult to transport.

[0011] In some embodiments, the self-sealing joint unit includes a self-sealing joint and a branch pipeline connected to the self-sealing joint.

[0012] Since the self-sealing joint unit includes a self-sealing joint and a branch pipe connected to the self-sealing joint, the flexibility of the installation position of the self-sealing joint can be improved, and the operating space around the self-sealing joint can be adjusted through the branch pipe to facilitate operation.

[0013] In some embodiments, the self-sealing joint includes a first joint and a second joint that can be connected and separated from each other, and is configured to allow the heat exchange medium to pass through when the first joint and the second joint are connected to each other, and when the first joint and the second joint are separated from each other, the first joint and the second joint respectively block the heat exchange medium.

[0014] Since the first joint and the second joint of the self-sealing joint can be switched between a state of allowing the heat exchange medium to pass through and a state of respectively blocking the heat exchange medium by simply connecting and separating, the operation is simple.

[0015] In some embodiments, either the first joint or the second joint is an insertion end joint, and the other is a receiving end joint. The self-sealing joint is configured to allow the heat exchange medium to flow through when the insertion end joint is inserted into the receiving end joint, and when the insertion end joint and the receiving end joint are separated from each other, the insertion end joint and the receiving end joint respectively block the heat exchange medium from flowing through.

[0016] Since the self-sealing joint has a simple structure and the connection and separation of the first joint and the second joint can be achieved by plugging and pulling, it is easy to operate and saves time, which helps to reduce the operation time required for disassembly and assembly and helps to improve work efficiency.

[0017] In some embodiments, the branch conduit comprises a conduit formed from a flexible tube.

[0018] Thus, the self-sealing joint can be connected to the main heat exchange medium line and / or the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit via a flexible tube. Because the flexible tube is bendable, the installation location flexibility of the heat exchange unit, the self-sealing joint, and the like can be greatly improved. The shape and length of the flexible tube can be designed to accommodate the installation location of the heat exchange unit within a wide range of spaces. Furthermore, a larger space can be left between the heat exchange unit and the main heat exchange medium line, and between adjacent heat exchange units, facilitating operation.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first joint is integrated into the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit; the second joint is installed at one end of the branch pipeline; and the other end of the branch pipeline is connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline.

[0020] Because the first joint of the self-sealing joint can be integrated into the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit, the number of parts and the corresponding installation steps can be reduced. Furthermore, the self-sealing joint can be easily fixed in position, which can also reduce the number of pipes arranged in the space around the heat exchange unit. In addition, because the second joint is connected to the main heat exchange medium line via a branch line, the installation location of the heat exchange unit is more flexible and it is convenient to retain operating space between the heat exchange unit and the main heat exchange medium line, as well as between adjacent heat exchange units, facilitating operation.

[0021] In some embodiments, the self-sealing joint unit also includes a quick-connect joint, the first joint is installed on the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit via the quick-connect joint; the second joint is installed at one end of the branch pipeline; the other end of the branch pipeline is connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline.

[0022] Because the first joint of the self-sealing joint is connected to the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit via a quick-connect joint that can be quickly and easily installed there, the first joint can be installed more reliably and easily removed from the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit. Furthermore, the use of a quick-connect joint helps improve the efficiency of assembly between the quick-connect joint and the heat exchange unit.

[0023] In some embodiments, the branch pipeline includes a first branch pipeline and a second branch pipeline, the first joint is connected to the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit via the first branch pipeline; the second joint is connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline via the second branch pipeline.

[0024] Since the first joint and the second joint are connected through a branch pipe, the flexibility of the installation position of the self-sealing joint, etc. can be greatly improved; the setting position of the heat exchange unit can be adapted within a larger spatial range by designing the shape and length of the branch pipe; and a larger space can be left between the heat exchange unit and the main heat exchange medium line, and between the heat exchange units to facilitate operation.

[0025] In some embodiments, the second branch pipeline is composed of a three-way joint having a first port, a second port and a third port, the first port and the second port are connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline, and the second joint of the self-sealing joint is integrated into the third port of the three-way joint.

[0026] Since the second branch pipeline is composed of a three-way joint connected to the main heat exchange medium pipeline, the second joint of the self-sealing joint is integrated into the three-way joint, so the number of parts can be reduced; it is also convenient to fix the position of the self-sealing joint, and the pipelines arranged in the space around the main heat exchange medium pipeline can be reduced.

[0027] In some embodiments, the heat exchange medium main line includes a heat exchange medium supply main line and a heat exchange medium return main line, and the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit includes a heat exchange medium inlet and a heat exchange medium outlet, the heat exchange medium inlet is connected to the heat exchange medium supply main line through the self-sealing joint unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet is connected to the heat exchange medium return main line through the self-sealing joint unit.

[0028] Since self-sealing joint units are provided between the heat exchange medium inlet and the heat exchange medium supply main line, as well as between the heat exchange medium outlet and the heat exchange medium return main line, when the heat exchange unit is disassembled and installed simultaneously for the purpose of removing or replacing the battery pack, the self-sealing joints on the heat exchange medium inlet side and the self-sealing joints on the heat exchange medium outlet side can be operated separately, without discharging the heat exchange medium inside the heat exchange unit to be disassembled, and the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange medium supply main line and the heat exchange medium return main line, thus simplifying the operation. Moreover, for the heat exchange unit to be disassembled, the heat exchange medium can be sealed from both its inlet and outlet sides, reducing the risk of heat exchange medium leakage.

[0029] In some embodiments, there are multiple heat exchange units, including a first heat exchange unit and a second heat exchange unit. The first heat exchange unit and the second heat exchange unit are arranged to be connected in a manner that the heat exchange medium flows through the heat exchange medium inlet of the first heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium outlet of the first heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium inlet of the second heat exchange unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of the second heat exchange unit in sequence. The heat exchange medium inlet of the first heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of the second heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium return pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit.

[0030] In this way, two or more heat exchange units can be connected in series. When several heat exchange units are connected in series, self-sealing joint units can be installed at the heat exchange medium inlet of the upstream heat exchange unit and the heat exchange medium outlet of the downstream heat exchange unit in the heat exchange unit series. This can reduce the number of self-sealing joints used while suppressing the amount of heat exchange medium leakage and correspondingly shortening operation time compared to the past, helping to reduce system flow resistance, and also helping to reduce the number of parts and corresponding weight.

[0031] In some embodiments, among the multiple heat exchange units, at least one third heat exchange unit is also included, and the first heat exchange unit, the third heat exchange unit, and the second heat exchange unit are arranged to be connected in a manner that the heat exchange medium flows through the heat exchange medium inlet of the first heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium outlet of the first heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium inlet of the third heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium outlet of the third heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium inlet of the second heat exchange unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of the second heat exchange unit in sequence, the heat exchange medium inlet of the first heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of the second heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium return pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit.

[0032] Therefore, when several heat exchange units are connected in series, self-sealing joint units can be set at the heat exchange medium inlet of the upstream heat exchange unit and the heat exchange medium outlet of the downstream heat exchange unit in the heat exchange unit string. Therefore, when disassembling and assembling, the self-sealing joint units on the upstream and downstream sides can be operated. Therefore, the number of self-sealing joints used can be reduced while suppressing the discharge of heat exchange medium and reducing the operation time accordingly compared with the past, which helps to reduce the flow resistance of the system. In addition, there can be multiple heat exchange units between the upstream heat exchange unit and the downstream heat exchange unit in the heat exchange unit string, which can be connected in series with each other, in parallel with each other, or in a mixture of serial and parallel. Thereby, the layout flexibility of the heat exchange unit can be improved. In addition, it is also possible to choose to disassemble the entire heat exchange unit string or part of it according to the specific situation.

[0033] In some embodiments, among the multiple heat exchange units, multiple fourth heat exchange units are included, and the heat exchange medium inlet of each fourth heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline in parallel through the self-sealing joint unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of each fourth heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium return pipeline in parallel through the self-sealing joint unit.

[0034] Because several heat exchange units can be connected in parallel, disassembling one unit eliminates the need to disassemble or assemble other parallel units. This simplifies operations, saves time, and minimizes the flow of heat exchange medium in as few units as possible. Furthermore, when battery packs are removed to reduce the overall weight of the energy storage system for easier transportation, the battery packs can be flexibly selected based on the desired weight reduction.

[0035] In some embodiments, the heat exchange unit includes a cooling plate for cooling the battery, and the heat exchange medium port includes a heat exchange medium port for a cooling plate provided on the cooling plate.

[0036] This makes it widely applicable in battery cooling scenarios. Furthermore, when used in battery cooling scenarios, the cooling plate in the battery can be directly used as a heat exchange unit, resulting in a simple energy storage system structure and less space occupation.

[0037] In some embodiments, the heat exchange unit is provided in plurality, and the plurality of heat exchange units are connected to form a heat exchange unit aggregate. The heat exchange unit aggregate is provided with a heat exchange medium port for the aggregate shared by the heat exchange unit aggregate, and the heat exchange medium port for the aggregate is connected with a self-sealing joint for the aggregate.

[0038] Since a common heat exchange medium port and a self-sealing joint for the heat exchange unit assembly can be set for the heat exchange unit assembly, the heat exchange unit assembly can be disassembled and assembled as a whole, which is easy to operate and does not require the discharge of the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange unit assembly. This helps to reduce operation time and improve operation efficiency. For example, it is suitable for scenarios where the battery cluster is disassembled and assembled as a whole.

[0039] In some embodiments, the connection method between the self-sealing joint and the branch pipeline includes interference fit connection, hot melt connection, welding, and snap connection.

[0040] As a result, the connection of the self-sealing connection to the branch line can be easily realized in a simple manner.

[0041] A second aspect of the present disclosure provides an energy storage module, configured as the energy storage system described in the first aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the energy storage system includes a main heat exchange medium line, and the energy storage module includes a heat exchange unit, a self-sealing joint unit, and at least one battery cell. The heat exchange unit is configured to exchange heat with the battery cell, and the heat exchange unit is provided with a heat exchange medium port for entering and exiting the heat exchange medium. The self-sealing joint unit is configured to connect the heat exchange medium port with the main heat exchange medium line.

[0042] Since the self-sealing joint unit is configured to connect the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit to the heat exchange medium main line, the heat exchange unit in the energy storage module and the heat exchange medium main line can be connected and disconnected mainly by operating the self-sealing joint unit. Moreover, due to the self-sealing effect of the self-sealing joint unit, the heat exchange medium will not flow out from the heat exchange unit side and the heat exchange medium main line side. Therefore, when considering disassembling the energy storage system for the purpose of maintenance, replacement, transportation, etc., one or some energy storage modules can be disassembled and assembled in a targeted manner, and the disassembly and assembly operation is simple and time-saving. In addition, the overall weight of the energy storage system can be reduced for easy transportation by easily disassembling one or some energy storage modules, thereby solving the problem of the overall weight of the energy storage system exceeding the load limit of the transportation vehicle and being difficult to transport in a simple way.

[0043] A third aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrical device, characterized in that it includes the energy storage system described in the first aspect of the present disclosure or the energy storage module described in the second aspect of the present disclosure, and the battery cells are used to provide electrical energy to the electrical device.

[0044] As a result, electrical devices can utilize the energy stored in the energy storage system or module, improving the stability of their power usage. Furthermore, energy can be stored during off-peak hours or when the device is idle, allowing the energy storage system or module to power the device during peak hours or when the device is in use. This improves the rationality and economy of electricity use.

[0045] Utility model effect

[0046] The present disclosure can provide an energy storage system, an energy storage module, and an electrical device that help reduce the time required for disassembly and assembly operations and facilitate disassembly and assembly operations. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the detailed description of the preferred embodiments below. The accompanying drawings are for illustration purposes only and are not to be considered as limiting the present disclosure. The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to denote the same components. In the drawings:

[0048] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of an energy storage system provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0049] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of an energy storage system provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0050] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of a self-sealing joint unit and its surrounding structures provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0051] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of a self-sealing joint unit and its surrounding structures provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0052] FIG5 is a schematic diagram of a self-sealing joint unit and its surrounding structures provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0053] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of a self-sealing joint unit and its surrounding structures provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0054] FIG7 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of an energy storage system provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0055] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of an energy storage system provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0056] FIG9 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a self-sealing joint in a disconnected state provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0057] FIG10 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a connected state of a self-sealing joint provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0058] FIG11 is a schematic flow chart of a method for disassembling and assembling a heat exchange unit in an energy storage system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0059] FIG12 is a schematic structural diagram of a battery-powered vehicle provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0060] DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS: 1000 - Energy Storage System; P - Liquid Cooling Unit; L - Pipeline; 100 - Main Heating Medium Line; 101 - Heat Exchange Medium Supply Line; 102 - Heat Exchange Medium Return Line; 200 - Battery Cluster; 201 - Battery Pack; 202A - Energy Storage Compartment; 202B - Electrical Equipment Compartment; 203 - Self-Sealing Joint for Assembly; 204 - Heat Exchange Medium Port for Assembly; 210 - Heat Exchange Unit; 211 - Self-Sealing Joint; 211a - First Joint; 211b - Second Joint; 2111a - First Valve Core Spring; 2111b - Second Valve Core Spring; 2112a - First Valve Core; 2112b - second valve core; 2113a - first valve core sealing ring; 2113b - second valve core sealing ring; 2114a - first valve body; 2114b - second valve body; 2115b - valve stem; 2116a - first connector terminal; 2116b - second connector terminal; 2117b - second connector sleeve; 2118b - operating rod; 2119b - valve stem sealing ring; 2120b - second valve core end sealing ring; 2121a - annular protrusion; 2121b - annular raised portion; 2122a - first terminal sealing ring; 2122b - second terminal sealing ring; 212-Self-sealing joint unit; 213-Branch pipeline; 213a-First branch pipeline; 213b-Second branch pipeline; 214-Heat exchange medium port; 214a-Heat exchange medium inlet; 214b-Heat exchange medium outlet; 215-Quick connector; 216-Tee connector; 216a-First port; 216b-Second port; 216c-Third port; 2000-Vehicle; 2001-Battery; 2002-Controller; 2003-Motor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The following embodiments of the technical solution of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present disclosure and are therefore only examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0062] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs; the terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure; the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification and claims of the present disclosure and the above-mentioned figure descriptions are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions.

[0063] In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, technical terms such as "first," "second," "third," and "fourth" are used solely to distinguish different objects and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or to implicitly specify the quantity, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the technical features indicated. In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, "plurality" means more than two, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0064] References herein to "embodiments" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it constitute an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive of other embodiments. It is understood, both explicitly and implicitly, by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments.

[0065] In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the term "and / or" is simply a description of the association relationship between associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0066] In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installed", "connected", "connected", "fixed" and the like should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integrated connection; it can also be a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a flow connection; it can be a direct connection, or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements. In addition, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the technical term "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. It can be the direct internal connection of two elements, or the indirect connection of two elements through other pathways. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present disclosure can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0067] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail.

[0068] Currently, new energy batteries are increasingly being used in everyday life and industry. They are not only used in energy storage systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but are also widely used in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric vehicles, as well as in military equipment and aerospace. As the application of power batteries continues to expand, market demand is also growing.

[0069] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery may be a battery cell (sometimes also referred to as a battery cell), or a battery module or battery pack comprising a plurality of battery cells. A battery cell refers to a basic unit that can realize the mutual conversion of chemical energy and electrical energy, and can be used to make a battery module or battery pack, thereby being used to supply power to electrical devices. A battery cell may be a secondary battery, which refers to a battery cell that can be activated by charging the active material after the battery cell is discharged and can continue to be used. The battery cell may be a lithium-ion battery, a sodium-ion battery, a sodium-lithium-ion battery, a lithium metal battery, a sodium metal battery, a lithium-sulfur battery, a magnesium-ion battery, a nickel-hydrogen battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a lead-acid battery, etc., and the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0070] In energy storage systems such as energy storage containers, batteries comprising a large number of battery cells are arranged, for example, multiple battery packs. Because the battery packs generate a large amount of heat during operation, the energy storage system typically includes cooling pipes for heat exchange with the battery cells to cool each battery cell. These cooling pipes are typically connected to a main coolant line, which is connected to a liquid cooling unit for refrigerating the coolant in the pipes.

[0071] When one or more battery packs in an energy storage system fail and need to be replaced, the current method is to prepare a container for receiving coolant in advance and place the container in a lower position; then open the coolant quick release valve of the battery cluster where the battery pack to be removed is located, and release the coolant in the entire battery cluster into the above-mentioned container for receiving coolant; then, use the compressed air of the liquid cooling unit to blow air on the cooling pipes of each battery pack one by one to drain all the remaining liquid at the bottom of the cooling pipes in each battery pack; then, remove the battery pack to be removed and install another battery pack as a replacement; refill the coolant for the entire battery cluster including the reinstalled battery pack. It should be noted here that in this specification, a battery cluster includes multiple battery packs whose cooling pipes are connected (including serial connection, parallel connection, and mixed connection of both serial and parallel connection). In the field of energy storage, a battery cluster is also called an electrical cabinet, and a battery pack is also called an electrical box.

[0072] The existing method mentioned above suffers from the time-consuming draining and refilling of coolant, the time-consuming and tedious battery pack replacement process, and other issues. Furthermore, since the entire battery cluster must be refilled with coolant, the amount of coolant used is high, resulting in high costs. Furthermore, to completely drain the cooling lines, the liquid cooling unit must be activated during the replacement process, which requires specialized procedures and is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

[0073] Furthermore, when transporting energy storage systems, such as energy storage containers, there is sometimes a challenge to overcome, as the containers exceed the weight limits of the transport vehicle. Therefore, finding a simple and feasible way to reduce the weight of energy storage containers is another challenge the industry is eager to address.

[0074] The present disclosure addresses the aforementioned issues with the existing technology and proposes a design concept: by employing self-sealing joints in the cooling piping system of an energy storage system, the cooling piping is simultaneously blocked while being cut. This allows for the elimination of the coolant draining and refilling steps, reducing the amount of coolant drained, thereby saving time required for replacing or reinstalling the battery pack and its heat exchange unit, and improving operational efficiency. Furthermore, this design concept is suitable for achieving a simple and easy weight reduction to meet transportation requirements.

[0075] Based on this design concept, the present disclosure proposes an energy storage system, which includes a heat exchange medium main line, a heat exchange unit, a self-sealing joint unit and at least one battery, the battery including at least one battery cell, the heat exchange unit configured to exchange heat with the battery cell, the heat exchange unit provided with a heat exchange medium port for the heat exchange medium to enter and exit, and the heat exchange medium port is connected to the heat exchange medium main line via the self-sealing joint unit.

[0076] In this way, the operation time required for removing the battery pack and its heat exchange unit from the energy storage system and reinstalling the battery pack and its heat exchange unit can be shortened, the disassembly and reinstallation operations can be simplified, thereby improving the operation efficiency, and is also suitable for weight reduction in order to meet transportation requirements.

[0077] The energy storage system provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can be used, but is not limited to, in the field of energy storage and in battery-powered electrical devices such as vehicles, ships, aircraft, or spacecraft.

[0078] The energy storage system provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can be configured as an energy storage box, an energy storage cabinet, an energy storage container, etc.

[0079] The energy storage system provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can be used in commercial energy storage power stations, in household energy storage scenarios, and in battery storage and transportation scenarios.

[0080] In the following embodiments, an energy storage system 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is taken as an example for description, and the following description is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0081] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an energy storage system 1000 provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG1 , energy storage system 1000 includes a heat exchange medium main line 100, a heat exchange unit 210, a self-sealing joint unit 212, and at least one battery. The battery includes at least one battery cell. The heat exchange unit 210 is configured to exchange heat with the battery cell. The heat exchange unit 210 is provided with a heat exchange medium port 214 for the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange medium. The heat exchange medium port 214 is connected to the heat exchange medium main line 100 via the self-sealing joint unit 212.

[0082] The battery referred to in the embodiments of the present disclosure is a single physical module that may include one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. The battery cell (not shown) can be one or more, and multiple battery cells can be connected in series, parallel, or in a hybrid configuration. A hybrid configuration refers to multiple battery cells connected in both series and parallel.

[0083] In some embodiments, the battery may be a battery module. When there are multiple battery cells, the multiple battery cells are arranged and fixed to form a battery module.

[0084] In some embodiments, the battery can be a battery pack. Multiple battery cells can be directly connected in series, parallel, or hybrid, and then the entire battery pack can be housed in a storage space for use as a battery pack. Alternatively, the battery pack can be a battery module formed by first connecting multiple battery cells in series, parallel, or hybrid, and then connecting multiple battery modules in series, parallel, or hybrid to form a complete battery pack. Of course, a battery pack also includes a single battery module. In the following embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the battery is described as a battery pack 201.

[0085] The battery pack 201 may further include other structures, for example, a busbar component for achieving electrical connection between multiple battery cells. In addition, the battery pack 201 may further include a heat exchange unit 210 for performing heat exchange with each battery cell.

[0086] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery cell may be a secondary battery. A secondary battery refers to a battery cell that can be continuously used by activating active materials by charging after the battery cell is discharged.

[0087] The battery cells may be lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, lithium metal batteries, sodium metal batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, magnesium-ion batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lead-acid batteries, etc., which are not limited in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0088] Although not shown, a battery cell generally includes an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. During the charge and discharge process of the battery cell, active ions (such as lithium ions) are inserted and removed between the positive and negative electrodes. The separator is placed between the positive and negative electrodes to prevent short circuits between the positive and negative electrodes while allowing active ions to pass through.

[0089] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly is provided with tabs (not shown) that can conduct current from the electrode assembly. The tabs include a positive tab and a negative tab.

[0090] In some embodiments, a battery cell may include a housing. The housing is used to encapsulate components such as the electrode assembly and the electrolyte. The housing may be a steel housing, an aluminum housing, a plastic housing (e.g., polypropylene), a composite metal housing (e.g., a copper-aluminum composite housing), or an aluminum-plastic film.

[0091] As an example, the battery cell can be a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, a soft-pack battery cell or a battery cell of other shapes. The prismatic battery cell includes a square-shell battery cell, a blade-shaped battery cell, a polygonal battery, such as a hexagonal battery, etc. There is no special limitation in the present disclosure.

[0092] The heat exchange medium mentioned in the embodiments of the present disclosure is a fluid used to perform heat exchange with battery cells in a pipeline. The so-called heat exchange refers to the use of the temperature difference between the heat exchange medium and the surroundings of each battery cell to achieve heat transfer so as to reduce the temperature difference between the heat exchange medium and the battery cell. It can be used to heat up the battery cell or to cool down the battery cell. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the case of regulating the temperature of the battery cell by using the temperature difference between the liquid heat exchange medium and the surroundings of each battery cell is used as an example. In some embodiments, the heat exchange medium is called a coolant or refrigerant, which is mainly used to cool the battery cell. As a coolant, a suitable coolant can be selected according to the specific situation. As specific examples, ethylene glycol solutions, water, etc. can be cited.

[0093] In some embodiments, although not shown, the energy storage system may be a regular rectangular parallelepiped structure, wherein the six faces of the rectangular parallelepiped are the six outer walls of the energy storage system. Configuring the energy storage system as a rectangular parallelepiped structure facilitates the fixed placement and transportation of the energy storage system.

[0094] The interior of the rectangular energy storage system is a hollow structure, which can be divided into multiple functional compartments according to actual needs. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the energy storage system 1000 may include an energy storage compartment 202A and an electrical equipment compartment 202B. The energy storage compartment 202A can be used to accommodate batteries to store and provide electrical energy, for example, it can accommodate multiple battery packs 201. The electrical equipment compartment 202B can be used to accommodate thermal management components to regulate the temperature inside the energy storage system, and can also accommodate control equipment to manage or assist in the operation of parts of the energy storage system. In some embodiments, the battery equipment compartment 202B can be further divided into a thermal management compartment for accommodating the above-mentioned thermal management components and a control compartment for accommodating the above-mentioned control equipment.

[0095] In some embodiments, the locations of the energy storage compartment 202A and the electrical equipment compartment 202B of the energy storage system 1000 can be configured based on actual applications. For example, as shown in FIG2 , the energy storage compartment 202A can be located on one side of the energy storage system 1000, and the electronic equipment compartment 202B can be located on the other side. Of course, different configurations than those shown in FIG2 can also be employed, such as utilizing the upper space within the energy storage system 1000 to accommodate the electrical equipment compartment 202B or at least one of the thermal management compartment and the control compartment.

[0096] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 8 .

[0097] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of an energy storage system 1000 provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 2 is a partial structural schematic diagram of an energy storage system 1000 provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a self-sealing joint unit 212 and its surrounding structure provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a self-sealing joint unit 212 and its surrounding structure provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a self-sealing joint unit 212 and its surrounding structure provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a self-sealing joint unit 212 and its surrounding structure provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 7 is a partial structural schematic diagram of an energy storage system provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 8 is a partial structural schematic diagram of an energy storage system provided in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0098] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide an energy storage system 1000, which includes a heat exchange medium main line 100, a heat exchange unit 210, a self-sealing joint unit 212, and at least one battery. The battery includes at least one battery cell (not shown). The heat exchange unit 210 is configured to exchange heat with the battery cell and is provided with a heat exchange medium port 214 for the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange medium. The heat exchange medium port 214 communicates with the heat exchange medium main line 100 via the self-sealing joint unit 212.

[0099] As the battery in the energy storage system 1000 , as shown in FIG1 , the battery pack 201 is taken as an example for description.

[0100] The main heat exchange medium line 100 serves as the flow path for the heat exchange medium and is divided into a heat exchange medium supply line 101 and a heat exchange medium return line 102, depending on the flow direction of the heat exchange medium. The main line is relative to each heat exchange unit 210 through which the heat exchange medium flows. The heat exchange medium supply line 101 is located at the upstream end relative to all heat exchange units 210 to which it supplies heat exchange medium, while the heat exchange medium return line 102 is located at the downstream end relative to all heat exchange units 210 from which it recovers heat exchange medium.

[0101] It should be noted that the arrangement positions of the heat exchange medium supply pipeline 101 and the heat exchange medium return pipeline 102 relative to the heat exchange unit 210 are not particularly limited. However, in some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, in order to facilitate centralized operation from one side of the energy storage system (e.g., an energy storage container), the heat exchange medium supply pipeline 101 and the heat exchange medium return pipeline 102 are arranged on the same side relative to the heat exchange unit 210. Of course, they can also be located on both sides of the connected heat exchange unit 210, as shown in Figures 7 and 8. In addition, the material of the heat exchange medium main pipeline 100 can be metal or resin, and of course other suitable materials can also be used.

[0102] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in FIG1 , the heat exchange medium flowing in the main heat exchange medium line 100 is a coolant used to cool the battery cells in the battery pack 201 . FIG1 shows three sets of heat exchange medium supply lines 101 and heat exchange medium return lines 102 . Each set of heat exchange medium supply lines 101 and heat exchange medium return lines 102 is connected to a liquid cooling unit P via a pipeline L. Heat exchange medium cooled by the liquid cooling unit P flows through pipeline L into each heat exchange medium supply line 101 . Heat exchange medium that has undergone heat exchange flows back through each heat exchange medium return line 102 and re-enters the liquid cooling unit P through pipeline L for cooling, thus forming a heat exchange medium cycle. It should be understood that the number of "three sets" here is merely an example and is not intended to limit the number of heat exchange medium supply lines 101 and heat exchange medium return lines 102 . Furthermore, the pipelines L and liquid cooling unit P in FIG1 are schematic elements for the purpose of illustrating the embodiment and are not intended to limit their actual structure. In addition, Figure 1 shows that three groups of heat exchange medium supply pipelines 101 and heat exchange medium return pipelines 102 share a set of pipelines L in parallel, but each group of heat exchange medium supply pipelines 101 and heat exchange medium return pipelines 102 can also be connected to the liquid cooling unit P through a set of pipelines L (each set of pipelines L is independent of each other). In addition, Figure 1 shows that three groups of heat exchange medium supply pipelines 101 and heat exchange medium return pipelines 102 share a set of liquid cooling unit P, but each group of heat exchange medium supply pipelines 101 and heat exchange medium return pipelines 102 can also use a set of liquid cooling unit P. The embodiment of the present disclosure does not limit the number of liquid cooling units P, which can be selected according to the situation. In addition, in some embodiments, heaters, etc. can also be additionally provided to achieve two-way heat exchange for heating and cooling the battery cells.

[0103] The heat exchange unit 210 is configured to exchange heat with each battery cell in the battery pack 201. The specific structure and location of the heat exchange unit 210 are not particularly limited. In some embodiments, the heat exchange unit 210 may be a cooling plate located at the bottom of the battery pack 201 with internal heat exchange medium flow channels. In other embodiments, the heat exchange unit 210 may also be a cooling plate located at the bottom or side of the battery pack with internal heat exchange medium flow channels. Of course, the heat exchange unit 210 is not limited to the above configuration.

[0104] As shown in Figures 1, 3, and 8, each heat exchange unit 210 is provided with a heat exchange medium port 214 for the entry and exit of heat exchange medium. Depending on the flow direction of the heat exchange medium, the heat exchange medium port 214 includes a heat exchange medium inlet 214a and a heat exchange medium outlet 214b. The heat exchange medium port 214 is a collective term for the heat exchange medium inlet 214a and the heat exchange medium outlet 214b. The heat exchange medium inlet 214a is the port provided on the heat exchange unit 210 through which the heat exchange medium flows into the heat exchange unit 210; the heat exchange medium outlet 214b is the port provided on the heat exchange unit 210 through which the heat exchange medium flows out of the heat exchange unit 210.

[0105] The self-sealing joint unit 212 shown in the dotted box in Figures 3 to 6 has the function of a joint and the function of self-sealing the flow path in which it is located, that is, when the self-sealing joint unit 212 remains in a connected state as a joint, the self-sealing joint unit 212 keeps the flow path unobstructed; when the self-sealing joint unit 212 becomes a disconnected state as a joint, the self-sealing joint unit 212 seals the end portions of the disconnected pipeline to inhibit the heat exchange medium from flowing out from the disconnected place.

[0106] As shown in Figures 1, 3 to 6, the self-sealing joint unit 212 is provided in the flow path between the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 and the heat exchange medium main line 100. It can be provided in the flow path between the heat exchange medium inlet 214a and the heat exchange medium supply line 101, or it can be provided in the flow path between the heat exchange medium outlet 214b and the heat exchange medium return line 102. As shown in Figure 1, in some embodiments, two self-sealing joint units 212 can be provided for each heat exchange unit 210 (only the self-sealing joint 211 is shown in the figure). As shown in Figures 7 and 8, in some embodiments, adjacent heat exchange units 210 can also share one self-sealing joint unit 212 (only the self-sealing joint 211 is shown in the figure). It is also possible to provide one self-sealing joint unit 212 on the upstream side and the downstream side of multiple heat exchange units 210 (only the self-sealing joint 211 is shown in the figure). Thus, for each heat exchange unit 210, the heat exchange medium port 214 is connected to the heat exchange medium main line 100 via the self-sealing joint unit 212. Of course, some self-sealing joint units 212 can be appropriately omitted. For example, in Figure 7, the self-sealing joint unit between the heat exchange unit 210a and the heat exchange unit 210b (only the self-sealing joint 211 is shown in the figure) can be omitted, and the heat exchange unit 210a and the heat exchange unit 210b can be connected by a pipeline. At this time, when the heat exchange unit 210a and the heat exchange unit 210b are removed as a whole as a heat exchange unit string, the self-sealing joint unit on the upstream side of the heat exchange unit 210a and the self-sealing joint unit on the downstream side of the heat exchange unit 210b can also be used to achieve self-sealing at the point where the pipeline is disconnected.

[0107] Since the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 is connected to the heat exchange medium main line 100 via the self-sealing joint unit 212, when the heat exchange unit 210 is disconnected from the heat exchange medium main line 100, the self-sealing joint unit 212 can be mainly operated, and due to the self-sealing effect of the self-sealing joint unit 212, the heat exchange medium will not flow out from the heat exchange unit 210 side and the heat exchange medium main line 100 side. Therefore, when the battery pack together with the heat exchange unit 210 for cooling it (also referred to as the "heat exchange unit 210 to be removed") has to be removed from the energy storage system for the purpose of maintenance, replacement, transportation, etc., it is not necessary to waste time and effort in discharging all the heat exchange unit 210 to be removed and the heat exchange units 210 connected to the heat exchange unit 210 to be removed, or even the heat exchange medium in the entire battery cluster as in the previous method. Instead, the heat exchange medium can be sealed inside the heat exchange unit 210 to be removed through the self-sealing joint unit 212 connected to the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 to be removed. At the same time, the self-sealing joint unit 212 will also seal the disconnection of the pipeline adjacent to the heat exchange unit 210 to be removed, and the heat exchange medium in the pipeline outside the heat exchange unit 210 to be removed will hardly flow out from the disconnection. Therefore, since there is little leakage of the heat exchange medium, the step of draining the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange unit 210 can be omitted, and the step of refilling the heat exchange medium in the reinstalled heat exchange unit 210 can also be omitted, simplifying the operation. In addition, the time required for disassembly and assembly operations, including draining and refilling the heat exchange medium, is greatly reduced. Moreover, when transporting the energy storage system 1000, such as an energy storage container, a portion of the battery pack 201 and the heat exchange unit 210 can be removed from the energy storage container by simply and easily disconnecting the self-sealing joint unit 212, thereby reducing the overall transportation weight. This can easily solve the problem of energy storage containers exceeding the load limit of the transportation vehicle and being difficult to transport.

[0108] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3 to FIG. 6 , the self-sealing joint unit 212 includes a self-sealing joint 211 and a branch pipeline connected to the self-sealing joint 211 .

[0109] Here, the self-sealing joint 211 and the branch pipeline connected thereto are referred to as a self-sealing joint unit 212. Here, the branch pipeline is relative to the main heat exchange medium pipeline 100, and includes a branch pipe that connects the main heat exchange medium pipeline 100 with the heat exchange unit 210, and also includes a branch pipe that constitutes the flow path between adjacent heat exchange units 210. The branch pipeline can be connected to the main heat exchange medium pipeline 100 through a joint or the like. In addition, the branch pipeline can be an inflexible rigid pipe, a flexible flexible pipe, or a hose. The material of the branch pipeline can be resin. The branch pipeline and the main heat exchange medium pipeline 100 can be connected by hot welding.

[0110] Since the self-sealing joint unit 212 includes a self-sealing joint 211 and a branch pipe connected to the self-sealing joint, the flexibility of the installation position of the self-sealing joint can be improved, and the operating space around the self-sealing joint can be adjusted by the length and direction of the branch pipe to facilitate operation.

[0111] In some embodiments, the self-sealing joint 211 includes a first joint 211a and a second joint 211b that can be connected and separated from each other, and is configured to allow the heat exchange medium to pass through when the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b are connected to each other, and when the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b are separated from each other, the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b respectively block the heat exchange medium.

[0112] The self-sealing joint 211 includes a first joint 211a and a second joint 211b that can be connected and separated from each other. When the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b are connected to each other, a connecting cavity is formed inside the two, allowing the heat exchange medium to flow smoothly; when the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b are disconnected from each other, the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b each block the end of the pipe in which they are located, inhibiting the outflow of the heat exchange medium. In the case where two adjacent heat exchange units 210 share a self-sealing joint 211, the first joint 211a of the shared self-sealing joint 211 and the second joint 211b adapted to the first joint 211a are each connected to one heat exchange unit 210.

[0113] Self-sealing joint 211 can be made of metal or plastic, or other materials as long as it meets its basic function. There are no specific limitations on the structure of self-sealing joint 211, as long as it can achieve the joint function and self-seal when disconnected. A specific example of the structure of self-sealing joint 211 will be described later with reference to Figures 9 and 10.

[0114] Since the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b of the self-sealing joint 211 can be switched between a state of allowing the heat exchange medium to pass through and a state of respectively blocking the heat exchange medium by simply connecting and separating, the operation is simple.

[0115] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, either the first connector 211a or the second connector 211b is an insertion end connector, and the other is a receiving end connector. The self-sealing connector 211 is configured to allow the heat exchange medium to flow through when the insertion end connector is inserted into the receiving end connector, and to block the heat exchange medium from flowing through when the insertion end connector and the receiving end connector are separated from each other.

[0116] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a self-sealing connector 211 in a disconnected state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a self-sealing connector 211 in a connected state according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The structures of the inserting end connector and the receiving end connector will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 9 and 10.

[0117] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 , the first connector 211 a serves as an insertion end connector (also referred to as a “male end”), and the second connector 211 b serves as a receiving end connector (also referred to as a “female end”).

[0118] As shown in Figure 9, the first connector 211a, which serves as an insert-end connector, includes a first valve core spring 2111a, a first valve core 2112a, a first valve core sealing ring 2113a, a first valve body 2114a, and a first connector terminal 2116a. In the state shown in Figure 8, the first valve core 2112a is disposed in the first valve body 2114a and is configured to slide relative to the first valve body 2114a. The first valve core sealing ring 2113a is sleeved on the first valve core 2112a. The first valve core spring 2111a is disposed between the first valve body 2114a and the first valve core 2112a and is configured to apply a pushing force to the first valve core 2112a, thereby pushing the first valve core 2112a against the port of the first valve body 2114a. The first valve core sealing ring 2113a seals the gap between the first valve core 2112a and the first valve body 2114a.

[0119] The first connector terminal 2116a is used to connect with the heat exchange medium port 214 or the branch pipeline 213, etc. As a connection method, interference fit connection, hot melt connection, welding, snap-on connection, etc. can be used. In a specific example, for example, the branch pipeline 213 sleeved on the outer periphery of the first connector terminal 2116a can be interference fit with the first connector terminal 2116a, thereby achieving a reliable connection. In addition, as shown in Figure 9, a protrusion protruding radially outward is also provided on the outer periphery of the first connector terminal 2116a, thereby further increasing the fitting force between the branch pipeline 213. As shown in Figure 9, a first terminal sealing ring 2122a is also sleeved on the outer periphery of the first connector terminal 2116a, which is used to seal between the first connector terminal 2116a and the branch pipeline 213 (not shown in Figure 9) to which the terminal is connected.

[0120] As shown in Figure 9, the second connector 211b serving as a receiving end connector includes a second valve core spring 2111b, a second valve core 2112b, a second valve core sealing ring 2113b, a second valve body 2114b, a valve stem 2115b, a second connector terminal 2116b, a second connector sleeve 2117b, an operating rod 2118b, a valve stem sealing ring 2119b and a second valve core end sealing ring 2120b. In the state shown in Figure 9, the second valve core 2112b is disposed within the second valve body 2114b and is configured to slide relative to the second valve body 2114b. A second valve core spring 2111b is disposed between the second valve core 2112b and the second valve body 2114b. One end of the second valve core spring 2111b is connected to the outer circumference of the second valve core 2112b, and the other end abuts the end surface of the second connector terminal 2116b facing the second valve body 2114b. The second valve core 2112b abuts the port of the second valve body 2114b under the thrust of the second valve core spring 2111b. An annular groove is defined on the inner circumference of the second valve body 2114b near the port, and a second valve core sealing ring 2113b is mounted in this groove. This second valve core sealing ring 2113b seals the gap between the second valve core 2112b and the second valve body 2114b. The second valve core 2112b is further surrounded by a valve stem 2115b, which is fixedly mounted relative to the second valve body 2114b and the second connector terminal 2116b. A valve stem seal 2119b is sleeved on the valve stem 2115b to seal the gap between the second valve core 2112b, which abuts against the port of the second valve body 2114b, and the valve stem 2115b.

[0121] The second connector terminal 2116b is used to connect with the heat exchange medium port 214 or the branch pipeline 213, etc. As a connection method, interference fit connection, hot melt connection, welding, snap-on connection, etc. can be used. In a specific example, for example, the branch pipeline 213 sleeved on the outer periphery of the second connector terminal 2116b can be interference fit with the second connector terminal 2116b, thereby achieving a reliable connection. In addition, as shown in Figure 9, a protrusion protruding radially outward is also provided on the outer periphery of the second connector terminal 2116b, thereby further increasing the fitting force between the branch pipeline 213. As shown in Figure 9, a second terminal sealing ring 2122b is also sleeved on the outer periphery of the second connector terminal 2116b, which is used to seal between the second connector terminal 2116b and the branch pipeline 213 (not shown in Figure 9) to which the terminal is connected.

[0122] In addition, a second joint sleeve 2117b is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second valve body 2114b, and the inner peripheral surface of the second joint sleeve 2117b is provided with an annular protrusion 2121b facing radially inward, which is used to engage with the annular protrusion 2121a facing radially outward provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first valve body 2114a in the state shown in Figure 10, thereby limiting the length of the first valve body 2114a inserted into the second valve body 2114b.

[0123] A second valve core end sealing ring 2120b is installed between the end of the second valve body 2114b and the annular protrusion of the second joint sleeve 2117b. The second valve core end sealing ring 2120b is used to seal the gap between the first valve body 2114a and the second valve body 2114b.

[0124] As shown in Figure 10, when the first connector 211a is inserted into the second connector 211b, the first valve body 2114a of the first connector 211a pushes the second valve core 2112b of the second connector 211b against the second valve core spring 2111b, thereby compressing the second valve core spring 2111b. As a result, the first valve body 2114a of the first connector 211a is inserted between the second connector sleeve 2117b, the second valve core seal 2113b, the second valve core end seal 2120b, and the valve stem 2115b. Because there is a gap between the inner circumference of the first valve body 2114a and the outer circumference of the valve stem 2115b, the first connector 211a and the second connector 211b form a structure in which the inner cavities are connected to each other.

[0125] Furthermore, operating lever 2118b is used to release the locking engagement between first connector 211a and second connector 211b. For example, by pressing operating lever 2118b radially inward, the engagement between second connector sleeve 2117b and first valve body 2114a can be released, thereby removing first connector 211a from second connector 211b. Furthermore, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the cross-sections shown in FIG9 and FIG10 are not cross-sections at the same location, and some structural details are omitted in both FIG9 and FIG10.

[0126] As described above, since the self-sealing joint has a simple structure and the connection and separation of the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b can be achieved by plugging and unplugging, it is easy to operate, helps to reduce the time required for disassembly and assembly, and helps to improve work efficiency.

[0127] In some embodiments, the branch line 213 comprises a line formed of a flexible tube.

[0128] Flexible tubes generally refer to tubes that are bendable but have a certain shape retention, for example, tubes that can bend under external force and maintain the bent shape, and examples include stainless steel tubes, aluminum alloy tubes, and plastic tubes.

[0129] Thus, the self-sealing joint 211 can be connected to the heat exchange medium main line 100 and / or the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 via a flexible tube. Because the flexible tube can bend and maintain its bent shape, the flexibility of the installation position of the heat exchange unit 210, the self-sealing joint 211, etc. can be greatly improved. The shape and length of the flexible tube can be designed to adapt the installation position of the heat exchange unit 210 to a larger spatial range. It can also leave a larger space between the heat exchange unit 210 and the heat exchange medium main line 100, and between adjacent heat exchange units 210, to facilitate operation.

[0130] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG3 , the first connector 211 a is integrated into the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 ; the second connector 211 b is installed at one end of the branch pipe 213 ; the other end of the branch pipe 213 is connected to the heat exchange medium main pipe 100 .

[0131] Figure 3 shows a partial schematic diagram of the battery pack 201. As shown in Figure 3, the first connector 211a is integrated with the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210. This means that the first connector 211a and the heat exchange medium port 214 are connected to form a single piece, and this single piece functions as both the heat exchange medium port and the first connector.

[0132] In addition, the heat exchange medium port 214 shown in FIG3 can be either the heat exchange medium inlet 214a or the heat exchange medium outlet 214b. When the heat exchange medium port 214 is the heat exchange medium inlet 214a, the branch pipe 213, one end of which is connected to the second connector 211b, is connected to the heat exchange medium supply pipe 101 at the other end. When the heat exchange medium port 214 is the heat exchange medium outlet 214b, the other end of the branch pipe 213 is connected to the heat exchange medium return pipe 102. The connection between the branch pipe 213 and the heat exchange medium main pipe 100 can be that the branch pipe 213 extends all the way to the vicinity of the heat exchange medium main pipe 100 and connects thereto, or the branch pipe 213 also passes through other heat exchange units 210 and / or other intermediate flow paths to connect to the heat exchange medium main pipe 100.

[0133] For the self-sealing joint 211 shown in Figure 3, an operator simply holds or uses a tool to hold the second joint 211b relative to the first joint 211a and connects or disconnects it. When the self-sealing joint 211 is disconnected, the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 is sealed due to its integration with the first joint 211a; the second joint 211b seals the end of the branch pipeline 213.

[0134] In addition, the heat exchange unit 210 has two heat exchange medium ports 214 , and the first connector 211 a may be integrated into both heat exchange medium ports 214 or only into one of the two heat exchange medium ports 214 .

[0135] Because the first joint 211a of the self-sealing joint 211 can be integrated with the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210, the number of parts and components can be reduced, and the number of installation steps can be correspondingly reduced. Furthermore, the self-sealing joint 211 can be easily fixed in position, and the number of pipes arranged in the space around the heat exchange unit 210 can be reduced. Furthermore, because the second joint 211b is connected to the main heat exchange medium line 100 via the branch line 213, the installation position of the heat exchange unit 210 can be more flexible, and operating space can be reserved between the heat exchange unit 210 and the main heat exchange medium line 100, as well as between adjacent heat exchange units 210, thereby facilitating operation.

[0136] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, the self-sealing joint unit 212 also includes a quick-connect joint 215, and the first joint 211a is installed on the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 via the quick-connect joint 215; the second joint 211b is installed at one end of the branch pipeline 213; the other end of the branch pipeline 213 is connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline 210.

[0137] As shown in FIG3 , a quick-connect connector 215 is installed at the heat exchange medium port 214, the first connector 211a is installed on the quick-connect connector 215, and the second connector 211b is connected to the branch pipe 213. The quick-connect connector 215 can be a connector that can connect or disconnect the pipes even without the use of tools. For example, it can be a connector structure that can be connected and engaged with the other connector only by insertion. It can be made of metal or resin. There is no special limitation on the specific form of the quick-connect connector 215. As an example, as shown in FIG3 , the quick-connect connector 215 can have an elbow. The use of such a quick-connect connector facilitates the adjustment of the position of the first connector 211a and the second connector 211b connected thereto, improves the flexibility of the layout, and can easily leave operating space around the first connector 211a and the second connector 211b connected thereto.

[0138] In addition, for the two heat exchange medium ports 214 of the heat exchange unit 210, both can adopt the structure of the first joint 211a shown in Figure 4 installed on the heat exchange medium port 214 via the quick-connect joint 215, or only one of the two heat exchange medium ports 214 can adopt the joint shown in Figure 4, and the other can adopt the structure of the first joint 211a shown in Figure 3 integrated into the heat exchange medium port 214.

[0139] Because the first joint 211a of the self-sealing joint 211 is mounted to the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 via the quick-connect joint 215, the reliability of the installation and the ease of assembly and disassembly of the first joint 211a relative to the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 211 can be improved. Specifically, because the first joint 211a is mounted to the heat exchange medium port 214 via the quick-connect joint 215, the quick-connect joint 215 can provide protection for the heat exchange medium port 214, preventing the risk of breakage, wear, or poor sealing of the heat exchange medium port 214 caused by repeated connection and disconnection of the first joint 211a.

[0140] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5, the branch pipeline 213 includes a first branch pipeline 213a and a second branch pipeline 213b, the first joint 211a is connected to the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 via the first branch pipeline 213a; the second joint 211b is connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline 100 via the second branch pipeline 213b.

[0141] As shown in Figure 4, the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b of the self-sealing joint can also be connected to the main heat exchange medium line 100 through branch pipes. The first branch pipe 213a and the second branch pipe 213b can constitute the pipeline between the self-sealing joint 211 and the main heat exchange medium line 100, or constitute the pipeline between two adjacent heat exchange units 210.

[0142] Since the first joint 211a and the second joint 211b are both connected through the branch pipe 213, the flexibility of the installation position of the self-sealing joint 211, etc. can be greatly improved; the shape, length, etc. of the branch pipe 213 can be designed to adapt the setting position of the heat exchange unit 210 within a larger spatial range; and a larger space can be left between the heat exchange unit 210 and the heat exchange medium main line 100, and between the heat exchange units 210 to facilitate operation.

[0143] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5, the second branch pipeline is composed of a three-way joint 216 having a first port 216a, a second port 216b and a third port 216c. The first port 216a and the second port 216b are connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline 100, and the second joint 211b of the self-sealing joint 211 is integrated into the third port 216c of the three-way joint 216.

[0144] As shown in FIG6 , the second branch pipeline can also be composed of a three-way joint 216. The first port 216a and the second port 216b of the three-way joint 216 are connected to the heat exchange medium main line 100, for example, by heat welding. The third port 216c extends outward relative to the heat exchange medium main line 100, and the second joint 211b of the self-sealing joint 211 is integrated in the third port 216c. When connecting or disconnecting the self-sealing joint 211, it is only necessary to connect or disconnect the first joint 211a relative to the third port 216c integrated with the second joint 211b. When the first joint 211a is disconnected from the second joint 211b, the second joint 211b performs a self-sealing function and closes the third port 216c of the three-way joint 216. As a result, the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange medium main line 100 will not flow out of the three-way joint 216 and flow in the pipeline.

[0145] Since the second branch pipeline is connected to the three-way joint 216 in the heat exchange medium main pipeline 100, the second joint 211b of the self-sealing joint 211 is integrated into the three-way joint 216, so the number of parts can be reduced; it is also convenient to fix the position of the self-sealing joint 211, and the pipelines arranged in the space around the heat exchange medium main pipeline 100 can also be reduced.

[0146] Furthermore, in an energy storage system comprising multiple heat exchange units 210, all self-sealing joint units may use any of the self-sealing joint units 212 shown in Figures 3 to 6, or a combination of two or more. For the two heat exchange medium ports 214 of the same heat exchange unit 210, both may use any of the self-sealing joint units 212 shown in Figures 3 to 6, or a combination of two or more. The self-sealing joint unit 212 shown in Figures 3 to 6 may be selected based on the specific situation.

[0147] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1, 2, 7, and 8, the heat exchange medium main line 100 includes a heat exchange medium supply main line 101 and a heat exchange medium return main line 102, and the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210 includes a heat exchange medium inlet 214a and a heat exchange medium outlet 214b, the heat exchange medium inlet 214a is connected to the heat exchange medium supply main line 101 through a self-sealing joint unit 212, and the heat exchange medium outlet 214b is connected to the heat exchange medium return main line 102 through the self-sealing joint unit 212.

[0148] Since self-sealing joint units 212 are provided between the heat exchange medium inlet 214a and the heat exchange medium supply main line 101, and between the heat exchange medium outlet 214b and the heat exchange medium return main line 102, when the heat exchange unit 210 is disassembled and assembled for the temporary removal or replacement of the battery pack, the self-sealing joint on the heat exchange medium inlet 214a side and the self-sealing joint on the heat exchange medium outlet 214b side can be operated respectively, and the heat exchange medium inside the heat exchange unit 210 to be removed, the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange medium supply main line 101 and the heat exchange medium return main line 102 do not need to be discharged, so the operation is simple; and for the heat exchange unit 210 to be removed, the heat exchange medium can be sealed from both its inlet side and outlet side to reduce the risk of heat exchange medium leakage.

[0149] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG7 , a plurality of heat exchange units 210 are provided. The plurality of heat exchange units 210 include a first heat exchange unit 210a and a second heat exchange unit 210b. The first heat exchange unit 210a and the second heat exchange unit 210b are arranged to communicate with each other so that heat exchange medium flows sequentially through a heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the first heat exchange unit 210a, a heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the first heat exchange unit 210a, a heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the second heat exchange unit 210b, and a heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the second heat exchange unit 210b. The heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the first heat exchange unit 210a is connected to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline 101 via a self-sealing joint unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the second heat exchange unit 210b is connected to the heat exchange medium return pipeline 102 via a self-sealing joint unit.

[0150] As shown in FIG7 , in an energy storage system, multiple heat exchange units 210 can be connected in series. In this case, a self-sealing joint unit (self-sealing joint 211) can be configured for each heat exchange unit 210 as shown in FIG7 ; one or more of the self-sealing joints 211 shown in FIG7 can also be omitted. For example, the self-sealing joint 211 located between the first heat exchange unit 210a and the second heat exchange unit 210b in FIG7 can be omitted, and the heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the first heat exchange unit 210a and the heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the second heat exchange unit 210b can be connected by a pipeline. Appropriately reducing the number of self-sealing joints helps reduce resistance in the flow path.

[0151] After the self-sealing joint 211 between the first heat exchange unit 210a and the second heat exchange unit 210b in FIG7 is omitted, when one of the heat exchange unit strings including the first heat exchange unit 210a and the second heat exchange unit 210b in FIG7 is to be removed, the self-sealing joint 211 closest to the heat exchange unit 210 to be removed can be first cut, for example, the self-sealing joint 211 on the heat exchange medium inlet side of the first heat exchange unit 210a and the self-sealing joint 211 on the heat exchange medium outlet side of the second heat exchange unit 210b in FIG7 can be cut, and the first heat exchange unit 210a and the second heat exchange unit 210b can be removed from the energy storage system as a whole. At this time, the heat exchange medium can be discharged only from the removed heat exchange unit string, which greatly reduces the time required for heat exchange medium discharge and the amount of heat exchange medium discharged and refilled compared to the case of discharging the heat exchange medium from the heat exchange units of the entire battery cluster.

[0152] In addition, the first heat exchange unit 210a and the second heat exchange unit 210b may be temporarily removed from the energy storage system to reduce weight. In this case, the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchange unit 210a and the second heat exchange unit 210b does not need to be discharged.

[0153] Thus, two or more heat exchange units 210 can be connected in series. When multiple heat exchange units 210 are connected in series, self-sealing joint units can be provided at the heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the upstreammost heat exchange unit and the heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the downstreammost heat exchange unit in the heat exchange unit series. This can reduce the number of self-sealing joints used while suppressing the amount of heat exchange medium leakage and correspondingly shortening operation time compared to the past, thereby helping to reduce system flow resistance, the number of components, and the corresponding weight.

[0154] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG8 , the plurality of heat exchange units further includes at least one third heat exchange unit 210c. The first heat exchange unit 210a, the third heat exchange unit 210c, and the second heat exchange unit 210b are arranged to communicate with each other in such a manner that the heat exchange medium sequentially flows through the heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the first heat exchange unit 210a, the heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the first heat exchange unit 210a, the heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the third heat exchange unit 210c, the heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the third heat exchange unit 210c, the heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the second heat exchange unit 210b, and the heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the second heat exchange unit 210b. The heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the first heat exchange unit 210a is connected to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline 101 through a self-sealing joint unit (the self-sealing joint 211 is shown in Figure 8), and the heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the second heat exchange unit 210b is connected to the heat exchange medium return pipeline 102 through a self-sealing joint unit (the self-sealing joint 211 is shown in Figure 8).

[0155] As shown in Figure 8 , in an energy storage system, three or more heat exchange units 210 can be connected in series. In this case, a self-sealing joint unit (self-sealing joint 211) can be configured for each heat exchange unit 210, as shown in Figure 8 . Alternatively, one or more of the self-sealing joints 211 shown in Figure 7 can be omitted. Reducing the number of self-sealing joints helps reduce resistance in the flow path.

[0156] In addition, as shown in FIG8 , in some embodiments, the plurality of heat exchange units 210 connected in series may also include some heat exchange units connected in parallel. Such a mixed connection of serial and parallel is a type of mixed connection. In the embodiment shown in FIG8 , the plurality of third heat exchange units 210c connected in parallel share a self-sealing joint 211 on both the heat exchange medium inlet side and the heat exchange medium outlet side. In addition, FIG8 schematically shows a first heat exchange unit 210a, a second heat exchange unit 210b, and a third heat exchange unit 210c. An example with one or three third heat exchange units 210c is also schematically shown. However, a person skilled in the art knows that the number of heat exchange units here is only used to schematically illustrate the embodiment, and does not limit the specific number of heat exchange units in the embodiment. The specific number of heat exchange units can be specifically designed according to the scale of the energy storage system, the number of battery packs, etc.

[0157] Therefore, when several heat exchange units are connected in series, a self-sealing joint unit 212 can be set at the heat exchange medium inlet 214a of the upstream heat exchange unit and the heat exchange medium outlet 214b of the downstream heat exchange unit in the heat exchange unit string. Therefore, when disassembling and assembling, the self-sealing joint units 212 on the upstream side and the downstream side can be operated. Therefore, the number of self-sealing joints used can be reduced while suppressing the discharge of heat exchange medium and reducing the operation time accordingly compared with the past, which helps to reduce the flow resistance of the system.

[0158] Furthermore, the heat exchange unit 210 between the upstream and downstream heat exchange units of the heat exchange unit string can be multiple, and they can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel. This increases the flexibility of the arrangement of the heat exchange units 210. Furthermore, the heat exchange unit string can be disassembled entirely or partially, depending on the specific situation.

[0159] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1, among the multiple heat exchange units, there are multiple fourth heat exchange units 210d, and the heat exchange medium inlet 214a of each fourth heat exchange unit 210d is connected in parallel to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline 101 through a self-sealing joint unit (the self-sealing joint 211 is shown in the figure), and the heat exchange medium outlet of each fourth heat exchange unit 210d is connected in parallel to the heat exchange medium return pipeline 102 through a self-sealing joint unit (the self-sealing joint 211 is shown in the figure).

[0160] Figure 1 shows that the fourth heat exchange unit 210d is connected to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline 101 and the heat exchange medium return pipeline 102 via a self-sealing joint unit (the self-sealing joint 211 is shown in the figure), but other flow paths or components with flow paths, such as other heat exchange units, may also be connected in each parallel flow path.

[0161] Because several heat exchange units 210 can be connected in parallel, when installing or removing a heat exchange unit, it is not necessary to install or remove other heat exchange units 210 connected in parallel. This simplifies the operation, saves time for operations including draining the heat exchange medium, and minimizes the flow of heat exchange medium in heat exchange units 210. Furthermore, when removing battery packs to reduce the overall weight of the energy storage system for easier transportation, the battery packs to be removed can be flexibly selected based on the desired weight reduction.

[0162] In addition, the connection methods for the multiple heat exchange units 210 shown in Figures 7, 8, and 1 can be mixed. Furthermore, for the multiple heat exchange units 210 shown in Figures 7, 8, and 1, the self-sealing joint unit 212 may not be connected to every heat exchange unit 210, but rather only to one or some heat exchange units 210 (e.g., heat exchange units 210 located in easily removable locations). This reduces the risk of weight increase due to numerous self-sealing joint units 212 when some battery packs and their heat exchange units 210 are removed for weight reduction. As a specific example, in the three battery clusters shown in Figure 1, each heat exchange unit 201 in each battery cluster is connected to a self-sealing joint unit. However, it is also possible that only a portion of the heat exchange units 201 in a portion of the battery clusters (e.g., one or two) are connected to a self-sealing joint unit, or it is possible that only a portion of the heat exchange units 201 in a portion of the battery clusters (e.g., one or two) are connected to a self-sealing joint unit.

[0163] In some embodiments, although not shown, the heat exchange unit 210 includes a cooling plate for cooling the battery, and the heat exchange medium port 214 includes a heat exchange medium port for a cooling plate provided on the cooling plate.

[0164] This makes it widely applicable in battery cooling scenarios. Moreover, when used in battery cooling scenarios, the cooling plate in the battery pack can be directly used as the heat exchange unit, resulting in a simple energy storage structure and less space occupied.

[0165] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG2 , a plurality of heat exchange units 210 are provided, and the plurality of heat exchange units 210 are connected (the illustration of the connecting pipes between the plurality of heat exchange units 210 is omitted in FIG2 ) to form a heat exchange unit aggregate, and a heat exchange medium port 204 for the aggregate shared by the heat exchange unit aggregate is provided for the heat exchange unit aggregate, and a self-sealing joint 203 for the aggregate is connected to the heat exchange medium port for the aggregate.

[0166] FIG2 shows an energy storage system 1000 including two battery clusters 200. The heat exchange units 210 in each battery cluster 200 form a heat exchange unit assembly. As shown in the upper battery cluster 200 in FIG2 , a heat exchange medium port 204 for the assembly is provided for the heat exchange unit assembly in the battery cluster 200. The heat exchange medium port 204 for the assembly can be divided into an inlet port and an outlet port. In some embodiments, the battery cluster 200 is configured as an electrical cabinet, and the heat exchange medium ports 204 for the assembly on the inlet and outlet sides can be provided on the cabinet body of the electrical cabinet. When the battery cluster 200 (electrical cabinet) needs to be removed from the system, it is only necessary to disconnect the self-sealing joints 203 for the assembly connected to the heat exchange medium ports 204 for the assembly.

[0167] Figure 2 shows two battery clusters 200, but only one of them is provided with a heat exchange medium port 204 and connected to a self-sealing joint 203. It should be understood that the number "two" is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit the number of battery clusters 200.

[0168] In some embodiments, the energy storage system 1000 includes multiple battery clusters 200. A self-sealing joint 203 for the assembly can be configured for one, some, or all of these battery clusters 200. For example, to reduce the weight of the energy storage system 1000, one battery cluster 200 can be removed from the system 1000. This allows the remaining battery cluster 200 to meet the load requirements of a transport vehicle and thus be transported. The removed battery cluster 200 can then be transported separately.

[0169] In addition, the self-sealing joint 203 for the assembly can adopt the same structure as the self-sealing joint 211 shown in Figures 9 and 10; it can also include a first self-sealing joint for the assembly and a second self-sealing joint for the assembly (not shown in the figures), and adopt a connection method similar to the first self-sealing joint 211a and the second self-sealing joint 211b shown in Figures 3 to 6, except that, in Figures 3 to 6, the first self-sealing joint 211a is connected to the heat exchange medium port 214 of the heat exchange unit 210, and the first self-sealing joint for the assembly is connected to the heat exchange medium port 204 for the assembly.

[0170] Since a common heat exchange medium port 204 and a self-sealing joint 203 for the heat exchange unit assembly can be provided for the heat exchange unit assembly, the heat exchange unit assembly can be disassembled and assembled as a whole, which is easy to operate and does not require the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange unit assembly to be discharged, thus helping to reduce operation time and improve operation efficiency. For example, it is applicable to the scenario of disassembling and assembling the entire battery cluster. In the example shown in Figure 2, the multiple heat exchange units 210 in the battery cluster 200 can be regarded as a heat exchange unit assembly. When disassembling and assembling the battery cluster 200 as a whole, only the self-sealing joint 203 for the assembly is required, and there is no need to operate the self-sealing joint 211 for each heat exchange unit 210 in the battery cluster 200 one by one.

[0171] Next, a specific example of the energy storage system will be described.

[0172] In the prior art, before replacing an electrical box (e.g., consisting of battery pack 201), the coolant of the entire battery cluster must be drained, and the coolant in the pipes and each electrical box must be drained cleanly using the pressure of the liquid cooling unit. This operation has the following problems: the entire process of replacing the electrical box requires draining the coolant first and then refilling the coolant, which is time-consuming and may lead to high labor costs for replacement; after replacing the new electrical box, the entire battery cluster needs to be refilled with coolant, which may increase the cost of replacing the electrical box; the liquid cooling unit must be operated during the replacement process, and using the pressure of the liquid cooling unit to drain the coolant in the pipes and each electrical box requires a separate work program to be written and flashed, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

[0173] In a specific example of the energy storage system disclosed in the present invention, a self-sealing joint 211 is added between the electrical box (for example, composed of a battery pack 201) and the pipeline to prevent the coolant from being lost after the electrical box is removed. The self-sealing joint 211 can be connected to the pipeline at both ends, or it can be connected to the electrical box at one end. In the separated state of the self-sealing joint 211, as shown in Figure 8, the male end of the self-sealing joint (for example, composed of a first joint 211a) presses against the first valve core 2112a through the first valve core spring 2111a so that the first valve core 2112a and the first valve core sealing ring 2113a are in close contact with the first valve body 2114a to achieve sealing. The female end of the self-sealing joint (for example, composed of a second joint 211b) presses against the second valve core 2112b through the second valve core spring 2111b so that the second valve core 2112b and the second valve core sealing ring 2113b are in close contact with the second valve body 2114b and the valve stem 2115 to achieve sealing. In the assembled state of the self-sealing joint 211, as shown in FIG9, the male end and the female end separate the valve core and the valve core sealing gasket by compressing the sealing spring, thereby realizing the connection between the male end and the female end. The self-sealing joint can be made of plastic or metal.

[0174] In addition, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, when two or more electrical boxes are connected in series, only one set of self-sealing connectors 211 can be used, one at the liquid cooling input of the first electrical box in the series and one at the liquid cooling output of the last electrical box in the series. As shown in Figure 1, when two electrical boxes are connected in parallel, self-sealing connectors 211 can be added to the liquid cooling output and input of each electrical box.

[0175] In addition, in the scenario where the entire electrical cabinet is disassembled, a self-sealing joint (e.g., composed of a self-sealing joint 203 for the assembly) can be connected only to the liquid cooling input and output ports of the battery cluster 200 (e.g., composed of a heat exchange medium port 204 for the assembly) as shown in Figure 2.

[0176] Figure 11 is a flow chart of a method for disassembling and assembling a heat exchange unit in an energy storage system provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure. When replacing the heat exchange unit 210 in the energy storage system provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure, the operation steps include: making the first connector and the second connector of the heat exchange unit to be disassembled respectively disconnected from the second connector and the first connector to which they are connected (S100); placing the heat exchange unit to be installed, which is filled with a specified amount of heat exchange medium, at a specified position (step S200). The specified position here can be the position where the disassembled heat exchange unit was originally located. This step can be placing another heat exchange unit at this position to replace the disassembled heat exchange unit (for example, a heat exchange unit that has failed), or it can be installing the temporarily disassembled heat exchange unit back to its original position; making the first connector and the second connector of the heat exchange unit to be installed respectively connected to the second connector and the first connector adjacent to them in a disconnected state (step S300). In this way, the battery pack and its heat exchange unit can be disassembled and assembled in a simple and quick manner.

[0177] When disassembling and assembling the battery cluster, similar steps to the above operation steps are adopted, except that it is the battery cluster to be disassembled, and the connector to be disconnected and reconnected is the self-sealing connector 203 for the battery cluster.

[0178] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, some embodiments of the present disclosure also provide an energy storage module configured as an energy storage system 1000. The energy storage system 1000 includes a heat exchange medium main line 1000. The energy storage module includes a heat exchange unit 210, a self-sealing joint unit 212, and at least one battery cell (not shown in the figure). The heat exchange unit 210 is configured to exchange heat with the battery cell. The heat exchange unit 210 is provided with a heat exchange medium port 214 for the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange medium. The self-sealing joint unit 212 is configured to connect the heat exchange medium port 214 to the heat exchange medium main line 100.

[0179] As shown in Figure 1 , energy storage system 1000 includes an energy storage module. This energy storage module can be a battery pack 201 and a self-sealing joint unit 212 connected to its heat exchange medium port 214, or a battery cluster 200 including a battery pack 201 and a self-sealing joint unit 212 connected to its heat exchange medium port 214.

[0180] Some embodiments of the present disclosure also provide an electrical device, which includes the energy storage system or energy storage module provided by the above embodiments, and the battery cells in the energy storage system or energy storage module are used to provide electrical energy to the electrical device.

[0181] The electrical device can be an object powered by a battery in an energy storage system or a battery cell in an energy storage module, such as electrical equipment in a commercial energy storage power station, such as a server in a large data center equipped with an energy storage system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; it can also be electrical equipment in a household energy storage scenario; it can also be a vehicle, ship, aircraft or spacecraft equipped with an energy storage system or energy storage module.

[0182] FIG12 illustrates a vehicle 2000 as an example of an electrical device. Vehicle 2000 includes a battery 2001, a controller 2002, and a motor 2003. Battery 2001 can be a battery in an energy storage system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, or a single cell in an energy storage module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Battery 2001 provides electrical energy to vehicle 2000, which in turn provides power to vehicle 2000 in whole or in part.

[0183] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present disclosure, rather than to limit them. Although the present disclosure has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, and they should all be included in the scope of the claims and description of the present disclosure. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way. The present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions that fall within the scope of the claims. Industrial Applicability

[0184] The disclosed embodiments provide an energy storage system, an energy storage module for the energy storage system, and an electrical device that help reduce the time required for disassembly and assembly operations and facilitate disassembly and assembly operations. The operating step of discharging the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange unit can be appropriately omitted, and the operating step of refilling the heat exchange medium in the reinstalled heat exchange unit can also be omitted, thereby simplifying the operation. In addition, the time required for disassembly and assembly operations, including discharging and refilling the heat exchange medium, is greatly reduced. Moreover, when transporting an energy storage system such as an energy storage container, a portion of the batteries and heat exchange units can be removed from the energy storage container by a simple and easy operation such as disconnecting the self-sealing joint unit, thereby reducing the overall transportation weight, thereby easily solving the problem that the energy storage container exceeds the load limit of the transportation vehicle and is difficult to transport.

Claims

1. An energy storage system, comprising a heat exchange medium main circuit, a heat exchange unit, a self-sealing joint unit and at least one battery, The battery comprises at least one battery cell, The heat exchange unit is configured to exchange heat with the battery cell. The heat exchange unit is provided with a heat exchange medium port for the heat exchange medium to enter and exit. The heat exchange medium port is connected to the heat exchange medium main line via the self-sealing joint unit.

2. The energy storage system according to claim 1, wherein: The self-sealing joint unit comprises a self-sealing joint and a branch pipeline connected to the self-sealing joint.

3. The energy storage system according to claim 2, wherein: The self-sealing joint includes a first joint and a second joint that can be connected and separated from each other, and is configured to allow the heat exchange medium to pass through when the first joint and the second joint are connected to each other, and when the first joint and the second joint are separated from each other, the first joint and the second joint respectively block the heat exchange medium.

4. The energy storage system according to claim 3, wherein: Either the first connector or the second connector is an insertion end connector, and the other is a receiving end connector. The self-sealing joint is configured to allow the heat exchange medium to flow through when the insertion end joint is inserted into the receiving end joint, and to respectively block the heat exchange medium from flowing through when the insertion end joint and the receiving end joint are separated from each other.

5. The energy storage system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The branch pipeline includes a pipeline formed of a flexible tube.

6. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The first joint is integrated into the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit; the second joint is installed at one end of the branch pipeline; and the other end of the branch pipeline is connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline.

7. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The self-sealing joint unit also includes a quick-connect joint, the first joint is installed on the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit via the quick-connect joint; the second joint is installed on one end of the branch pipeline; the other end of the branch pipeline is connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline.

8. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The branch pipeline includes a first branch pipeline and a second branch pipeline. The first joint is connected to the heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit via the first branch pipeline; the second joint is connected to the heat exchange medium main pipeline via the second branch pipeline.

9. The energy storage system according to claim 8, wherein: The second branch pipeline is composed of a three-way joint having a first port, a second port and a third port, the first port and the second port are connected to the main heat exchange medium pipeline, and the second joint of the self-sealing joint is integrated with the third port of the three-way joint.

10. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The heat exchange medium main line includes a heat exchange medium supply main line and a heat exchange medium return main line. The heat exchange medium port of the heat exchange unit includes a heat exchange medium inlet and a heat exchange medium outlet. The heat exchange medium inlet is connected to the heat exchange medium supply main line through the self-sealing joint unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet is connected to the heat exchange medium return main line through the self-sealing joint unit.

11. The energy storage system according to claim 10, wherein: The heat exchange unit is provided with a plurality of The plurality of heat exchange units include a first heat exchange unit and a second heat exchange unit, The first heat exchange unit and the second heat exchange unit are arranged to be connected in a manner that the heat exchange medium flows through the heat exchange medium inlet of the first heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium outlet of the first heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium inlet of the second heat exchange unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of the second heat exchange unit in sequence. The heat exchange medium inlet of the first heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of the second heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium return pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit.

12. The energy storage system according to claim 11, wherein: Among the plurality of heat exchange units, at least one third heat exchange unit is also included. The first heat exchange unit, the third heat exchange unit, and the second heat exchange unit are configured such that the heat exchange medium flows sequentially through the heat exchange medium inlet of the first heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium outlet of the first heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium outlet of the third heat exchange unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of the third heat exchange unit. The heat exchange medium inlet of the heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium outlet of the third heat exchange unit, the heat exchange medium inlet of the second heat exchange unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of the second heat exchange unit are connected in a manner of The heat exchange medium inlet of the first heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of the second heat exchange unit is connected to the heat exchange medium return pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit.

13. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein: Among the plurality of heat exchange units, a plurality of fourth heat exchange units are included, The heat exchange medium inlet of each of the fourth heat exchange units is connected in parallel to the heat exchange medium supply pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit, and the heat exchange medium outlet of each of the fourth heat exchange units is connected in parallel to the heat exchange medium return pipeline through the self-sealing joint unit.

14. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The heat exchange unit includes a cooling plate for cooling the battery, and the heat exchange medium port includes a heat exchange medium port for a cooling plate provided on the cooling plate.

15. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The heat exchange unit is provided with a plurality of A plurality of the heat exchange units are connected to form a heat exchange unit assembly. The heat exchange unit assembly is provided with an assembly heat exchange medium port common to the heat exchange unit assemblies. An assembly self-sealing joint is connected to the assembly heat exchange medium port.

16. The energy storage system according to any one of claims 2 to 15, wherein: The connection method between the self-sealing joint and the branch pipeline includes interference fit connection, hot melt connection, welding, and snap connection.

17. An energy storage module configured as the energy storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, the energy storage system comprising a main heat exchange medium line, the energy storage module comprising a heat exchange unit, a self-sealing joint unit and at least one battery cell, The heat exchange unit is configured to exchange heat with the battery cell, and is provided with a heat exchange medium port for heat exchange medium to enter and exit, and the self-sealing joint unit is configured to connect the heat exchange medium port with the heat exchange medium main line.

18. An electrical device, comprising the energy storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 16 or the energy storage module according to claim 17, wherein the battery cells are used to provide electrical energy for the electrical device.

Images