Low-temperature cooling circulation system and method, and vehicle

Abstract

A low-temperature cooling circulation system passing through an engine (102). A gas circulation circuit (10) is coupled to a first coolant circulation circuit (20) by means of a first heat exchanger (101), and the first coolant circulation circuit (20) is coupled to a second coolant circulation circuit (30) by means of a second heat exchanger (201). The gas circulation circuit (10) is configured to circulate gas entering the engine (102), the first heat exchanger (101) is an apparatus configured for heat exchange between a coolant in a coolant pipeline of the first coolant circulation circuit (20) and gas in the gas circulation circuit (10), and the second heat exchanger (201) is an apparatus configured for heat exchange between at least part of the coolant in the coolant pipeline of the first coolant circulation circuit (20) and a coolant in the second coolant circulation circuit (30). The low-temperature cooling circulation system can increase the temperature of the coolant in the first coolant circulation circuit (20), thereby preventing the normal operation of the engine (102) from being affected by the generation of a large amount of condensed water in the gas circulation circuit (10) after the coolant passes through the first heat exchanger (101). Further provided are a low-temperature cooling circulation method and a vehicle.

Description

A cryogenic cooling cycle system, method, and vehicle

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410497679.3, filed on April 23, 2024, entitled “A Cryogenic Cooling Cycle System, Method and Vehicle”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of vehicle technology, and more particularly to a cryogenic cooling cycle system, method, and vehicle. Background Technology

[0004] As internal combustion engines face increasingly stringent requirements for fuel consumption and emissions, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) technology has become more widely used. The EGR system re-introduces the exhaust gases produced by engine combustion into the cylinder for further combustion. The main components of the exhaust gases are water and carbon dioxide with high specific heat, so the use of EGR can significantly reduce engine fuel consumption and emissions.

[0005] However, due to the limitations of the existing engine and vehicle cooling system, the cooling capacity of the low-temperature radiator is too strong in the low-temperature environment of winter. After using the EGR intercooler, the outlet temperature of the intercooler is too low, which will produce more condensate and cause the engine to misfire. Therefore, the engine cannot use EGR technology in low-temperature environment and the overall fuel consumption of the vehicle increases. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this disclosure provides a cryogenic cooling cycle system, method, and vehicle.

[0007] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides a cryogenic cooling cycle system passing through an engine, comprising: a gas circulation loop, a first coolant circulation loop for cooling, and a second coolant circulation loop for heating;

[0008] The gas circulation loop includes a first heat exchanger; the gas circulation loop is coupled to the first coolant circulation loop through the first heat exchanger;

[0009] The first coolant circulation loop includes a second heat exchanger; the first coolant circulation loop is coupled to the second coolant circulation loop through the second heat exchanger.

[0010] The gas circulation loop is used to circulate gas entering the engine; wherein the gas includes air and exhaust gas; the first heat exchanger is a device for exchanging heat between the coolant in the coolant pipe of the first coolant circulation loop and the gas in the gas circulation loop; the second heat exchanger is a device for exchanging heat between at least a portion of the coolant in the coolant pipe of the first coolant circulation loop and the coolant in the second coolant circulation loop.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first coolant circulation loop further includes a low-temperature radiator;

[0012] The low-temperature radiator is connected in parallel with the second heat exchanger in the first coolant circulation loop.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first coolant circulation loop further includes a proportional three-way valve;

[0014] The proportional three-way valve is located on the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator, and between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger.

[0015] The proportional three-way valve is used to open or close the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator, and to open or close the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second coolant circulation loop is disposed on the engine side; the second coolant circulation loop is disposed on the coolant pipe between the coolant inlet and coolant outlet of the engine.

[0017] In some embodiments, the gas circulation loop further includes an exhaust gas recirculation cooler;

[0018] The exhaust gas recirculation cooler is disposed between the exhaust port and the intake port of the engine; the exhaust gas recirculation cooler is used to cool a portion of the exhaust gas discharged from the engine exhaust port.

[0019] In some embodiments, the gas recirculation loop further includes: an exhaust gas recirculation regulating valve, a compressor, a turbine, a throttle valve, an intake manifold, and a catalyst;

[0020] The exhaust gas recirculation cooler, the exhaust gas recirculation regulating valve, the compressor, the turbine, the throttle valve, the intake manifold, the catalytic converter, and the gas recirculation pipeline of the first heat exchanger are connected to form a gas recirculation loop.

[0021] Secondly, this disclosure also provides a cryogenic cooling cycle method applicable to any of the cryogenic cooling cycle systems described in the first aspect, the method comprising:

[0022] To obtain the target temperature required for the engine intake;

[0023] Based on the target temperature, the first coolant circulation loop and the second coolant circulation loop are activated.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first coolant circulation loop further includes a low-temperature radiator and a proportional three-way valve; the step of activating the first coolant circulation loop and the second coolant circulation loop based on the target temperature includes:

[0025] The proportional three-way valve controls the opening or closing of the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator, as well as the opening or closing of the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger.

[0026] In some embodiments, before controlling the proportional three-way valve to open or close the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator, and before opening or closing the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger, the method further includes:

[0027] The coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the low-temperature radiator and the coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the second heat exchanger are obtained.

[0028] The opening degree of the proportional three-way valve is determined based on the coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the low-temperature radiator, the coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the second heat exchanger, and the target temperature.

[0029] Thirdly, this disclosure also provides a vehicle including a cryogenic cooling cycle system as described in any of the claims of the first aspect.

[0030] The technical solution provided in this disclosure has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0031] The cryogenic cooling circulation system disclosed herein, passing through an engine, includes: a gas circulation loop, a first coolant circulation loop for cooling, and a second coolant circulation loop for heating. The gas circulation loop includes a first heat exchanger and is coupled to the first coolant circulation loop via the first heat exchanger. The first coolant circulation loop includes a second heat exchanger and is coupled to the second coolant circulation loop via the second heat exchanger. The gas circulation loop is used to circulate gas entering the engine; wherein the gas includes air and exhaust gas. The first heat exchanger is a device for exchanging heat between the coolant in the coolant pipes of the first coolant circulation loop and the gas in the gas circulation loop. The second heat exchanger is a device for exchanging heat between at least a portion of the coolant in the coolant pipes of the first coolant circulation loop and the coolant in the second coolant circulation loop. In this embodiment, heat exchange is performed between the first coolant circulation loop and the gas circulation loop to provide the required cooling capacity to the gas in the gas circulation loop. When the ambient temperature is too low, the coolant temperature in the first coolant circulation loop is too low, and after passing through the first heat exchanger, a large amount of condensate will be generated in the gas circulation loop, thereby affecting the normal operation of the engine. Therefore, to avoid excessively low coolant temperature in the first coolant circulation loop, this embodiment incorporates a second coolant circulation loop for heating. The second coolant circulation loop is coupled to the first coolant circulation loop via a second heat exchanger. The high-temperature coolant in the second coolant circulation loop exchanges heat with at least a portion of the low-temperature coolant in the first coolant circulation loop at the second heat exchanger, increasing the temperature of at least a portion of the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop, thereby increasing the temperature of the coolant exchanging heat with the gas circulation loop. This embodiment can increase the coolant temperature in the first coolant circulation loop, thus preventing the coolant from generating a large amount of condensate in the gas circulation loop after passing through the first heat exchanger, which would affect the normal operation of the engine. Attached Figure Description

[0032] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0033] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0034] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a cryogenic cooling cycle system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0035] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the working principle of a cryogenic cooling cycle system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 3 is a schematic flowchart of a cryogenic cooling cycle method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 4 is a schematic flowchart of another cryogenic cooling cycle method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0038] The attached figures are labeled as follows: 10, gas circulation loop; 20, first coolant circulation loop; 30, second coolant circulation loop; 101, first heat exchanger; 102, engine; 103, exhaust gas recirculation cooler; 104, exhaust gas recirculation regulating valve; 105, compressor; 106, turbine; 107, throttle valve; 108, intake manifold; 109, catalytic converter; 201, second heat exchanger; 202, cryogenic radiator; 203, proportional three-way valve; 204, electric water pump. Specific Implementation

[0039] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this disclosure, the solutions disclosed herein will be further described below. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described herein can be combined with each other.

[0040] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of this disclosure, but this disclosure may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein; obviously, the embodiments in the specification are only some, and not all, of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0041] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrates an embodiment of a cryogenic cooling cycle system, method, and vehicle provided in this disclosure.

[0042] This disclosure provides a cryogenic cooling cycle system that passes through an engine, including: a gas circulation loop 10, a first coolant circulation loop 20 for cooling, and a second coolant circulation loop 30 for heating.

[0043] The gas circulation loop 10 includes a first heat exchanger 101; the gas circulation loop 10 is coupled to the first coolant circulation loop 20 through the first heat exchanger 101. The first coolant circulation loop 20 includes a second heat exchanger 201; the first coolant circulation loop 20 is coupled to the second coolant circulation loop 30 through the second heat exchanger 201.

[0044] The gas circulation loop 10 is used to circulate gas entering the engine 102; wherein the gas includes air and exhaust gas; the first heat exchanger 101 is a device for exchanging heat between the coolant in the coolant pipe of the first coolant circulation loop 20 and the gas in the gas pipe of the gas circulation loop; the second heat exchanger 201 is a device for exchanging heat between at least a portion of the coolant in the coolant pipe of the first coolant circulation loop 20 and the coolant in the coolant pipe of the second coolant circulation loop 30.

[0045] The cryogenic cooling circulation system includes a gas circulation loop 10, which includes a gas pipe. Gas entering the engine 102 flows through the gas pipe; for example, fresh air from the outside enters the engine 102 and burns in the cylinders to generate kinetic energy. The exhaust gas after combustion is at a relatively high temperature. Some of the exhaust gas is discharged, while the remaining exhaust gas continues to flow through the gas circulation loop 10, entering the engine 102 together with the fresh air from the outside for further combustion. This reduces exhaust emissions, achieves the recycling of exhaust gas, and can reduce fuel consumption. However, the gas temperature in the gas pipe of the gas circulation loop is relatively high and needs to be cooled before entering the engine 102. Therefore, this embodiment provides a first coolant circulation loop 20 for cooling. The first coolant circulation loop 20 is coupled to the gas circulation loop 10 through a first heat exchanger 101. The first heat exchanger 101 includes a gas pipe and a coolant pipe, wherein the gas pipe is connected to the gas circulation loop 10, and the coolant circulation loop is connected to the first coolant circulation loop 20. For example, the first heat exchanger 101 in the gas circulation loop 10 is a water-cooled intercooler and adopts a counter-flow design, that is, the gas flow direction in the gas pipe is opposite to the coolant flow direction in the coolant pipe, so that the outlet gas temperature of the first heat exchanger 101 is basically the same as the inlet water temperature in a low-temperature environment. The coolant in the coolant pipe of the first coolant circulation loop 20 is a low-temperature coolant, while the gas in the gas pipe of the gas circulation loop 10 is a high-temperature gas. At the first heat exchanger 101, the low-temperature coolant in the coolant pipe of the first coolant circulation loop 20 exchanges heat with the high-temperature gas in the gas pipe of the gas circulation loop, thereby reducing the temperature of the gas in the gas circulation loop 10. The cooled gas can then enter the engine 102 for combustion.

[0046] The coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20 exchanges temperature with the external environment to lower its temperature. In low-temperature environments, the coolant temperature in the first coolant circulation loop 20 becomes too low, leading to excessively low gas temperature in the gas circulation loop 10 that exchanges heat with the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20. This results in both the outlet and inlet water temperatures of the first heat exchanger 101 being too low, and the gas containing excessive moisture generating a large amount of condensate, affecting the normal operation of the engine. Therefore, this embodiment also provides a second coolant circulation loop 30 for heating. The second coolant circulation loop 30 is coupled to the first coolant circulation loop 20 via a second heat exchanger 201. The second heat exchanger 201 includes two coolant pipes: one connected to the first coolant circulation loop 20, and the other connected to the second coolant circulation loop 30. The coolant temperatures in the two pipes are different. Specifically, the coolant in the coolant pipes of the second coolant circulation loop 30 is a high-temperature coolant, while the coolant in the coolant pipes of the first coolant circulation loop is a low-temperature coolant. At the second heat exchanger 201, at least a portion of the low-temperature coolant in the coolant pipes of the first coolant circulation loop 20 exchanges heat with the high-temperature coolant in the coolant pipes of the second coolant circulation loop 30, thereby increasing the temperature of this portion of the low-temperature coolant. Correspondingly, after this heated portion of coolant mixes with the low-temperature coolant, the temperature of the low-temperature coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20 will increase accordingly, providing the inlet water temperature for the first heat exchanger. This prevents the outlet temperature of the first heat exchanger 101 from being too low when exchanging heat with the high-temperature gas in the gas circulation loop, thus preventing the generation of excessive condensate due to low coolant temperature.

[0047] This embodiment of the invention exchanges heat between a first coolant circulation loop and a gas circulation loop to provide the necessary cooling for the gas in the gas circulation loop. When the ambient temperature is too low, the coolant temperature in the first coolant circulation loop is too low. After passing through the first heat exchanger, this causes a large amount of condensation to form in the gas circulation loop, thus affecting the normal operation of the engine. Therefore, to avoid the coolant temperature in the first coolant circulation loop becoming too low, this embodiment of the invention incorporates a second coolant circulation loop for heating. The second coolant circulation loop is coupled to the first coolant circulation loop via a second heat exchanger. The high-temperature coolant in the second coolant circulation loop exchanges heat with at least a portion of the low-temperature coolant in the first coolant circulation loop at the second heat exchanger, increasing the temperature of at least a portion of the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop, thereby increasing the temperature of the coolant exchanging heat with the gas circulation loop. This embodiment of the invention can increase the temperature of the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop, thus preventing the coolant from forming a large amount of condensation in the gas circulation loop after passing through the first heat exchanger, which would affect the normal operation of the engine.

[0048] In some embodiments, continuing to refer to FIG1, the first coolant circulation loop 20 further includes a low-temperature radiator 202; the low-temperature radiator 202 and the second heat exchanger 201 are arranged in parallel in the first coolant circulation loop 20.

[0049] A low-temperature radiator 202 and a second heat exchanger 201 are connected in parallel on the first coolant circulation loop 20. The low-temperature radiator 202 exchanges heat with the outside air to lower the temperature of the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20. After the second heat exchanger 201 is installed, the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20 that has passed through the second heat exchanger 201 exchanges heat with the high-temperature coolant in the second coolant circulation loop 30 to raise the temperature of this portion of the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20. In the first coolant circulation loop 20, before the coolant reaches the first heat exchanger 101, it is divided into two coolant streams. One stream passes through the low-temperature radiator 202 and flows out as coolant with a lower temperature. The other stream passes through the second heat exchanger 201 and flows out as coolant with a higher temperature. After the two streams of coolant are mixed, the coolant temperature will not be too low. Then, it flows into the coolant pipe of the first heat exchanger 101 and exchanges heat with the gas in the gas pipe of the gas circulation loop 10 to cool the gas. The temperature of the cooled gas will decrease, but it will not be too low to form condensate, so it will not affect the normal operation of the engine 102.

[0050] In some embodiments, continuing to refer to FIG1, the first coolant circulation loop 20 further includes a low-temperature radiator 202; the low-temperature radiator 202 and the second heat exchanger 201 are arranged in parallel in the first coolant circulation loop 20.

[0051] A low-temperature radiator 202 and a second heat exchanger 201 are connected in parallel on the first coolant circulation loop 20. The low-temperature radiator 202 exchanges heat with the outside air to lower the temperature of the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20. After the second heat exchanger 201 is installed, the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20 that has passed through the second heat exchanger 201 exchanges heat with the high-temperature coolant in the second coolant circulation loop 30 to raise the temperature of this portion of the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20. In the first coolant circulation loop 20, before the coolant reaches the first heat exchanger 101, it is divided into two coolant streams. One stream passes through the low-temperature radiator 202 and flows out as coolant with a lower temperature. The other stream passes through the second heat exchanger 201 and flows out as coolant with a higher temperature. After the two streams of coolant are mixed, the coolant temperature will not be too low. Then, it flows into the coolant pipe of the first heat exchanger 101 and exchanges heat with the gas in the gas pipe of the gas circulation loop 10 to cool the gas. The temperature of the cooled gas will decrease, but it will not be too low to form condensate, so it will not affect the normal operation of the engine 102.

[0052] In some embodiments, continuing to refer to FIG1, the first coolant circulation loop 20 further includes a proportional three-way valve 203. The proportional three-way valve 203 is located on the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator 202, and between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger 201.

[0053] The proportional three-way valve 203 is used to open or close the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator 202, and to open or close the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger 201.

[0054] The first coolant circulation loop 20 also includes a proportional three-way valve 203. The proportional three-way valve 203 has three ports: the first port is connected to the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10; the second port is connected to the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator 202; and the third port is connected to the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger 201. The coolant flowing from the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 reaches the first port of the proportional three-way valve 203. By controlling the opening and closing of the proportional three-way valve 203, the second heat exchanger 201 can be selectively connected to the first coolant circulation loop 20.

[0055] For example, Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the working principle of a cooling circulation system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Referring to Figure 2, all three ports of the proportional three-way valve 203 are open. At this time, the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator 202 is open, and the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger 201 is also open. Accordingly, the coolant flowing out of the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 enters the first port of the proportional three-way valve 203 and is divided into two paths. One path of coolant flows into the low-temperature radiator 202 through the coolant inlet and flows out of the low-temperature radiator 202 through the coolant outlet. This path of coolant has a lower temperature. The other path of coolant flows into the coolant pipe connected to the second heat exchanger 201 and the proportional three-way valve 203 through the coolant inlet and flows out of the outlet of the coolant pipe. This path of coolant has a higher temperature. The temperature of the mixed coolant is neither too high nor too low, and it flows to the coolant inlet of the gas circulation loop 10, where it exchanges heat with the high-temperature gas in the first heat exchanger 101. By controlling the flow rates at the second and third ports of the proportional three-way valve 203, the coolant temperature in the first coolant circulation loop 20 can be adjusted to prevent the coolant flowing into the gas circulation loop 10 from being too low. For example, when the ambient temperature is too low, the coolant temperature passing through the low-temperature radiator 202 will also be too low, causing a large amount of condensation to form when the gas exchanges heat at the first heat exchanger 101, affecting the normal operation of the engine 102. In this case, the flow rate at the second port of the proportional three-way valve 203 can be reduced to decrease the coolant flow rate in the coolant pipe where the low-temperature radiator 202 is located, i.e., reduce the flow rate of the coolant with a lower temperature, and the flow rate at the third port of the proportional three-way valve 203 can be increased to increase the coolant flow rate in the coolant pipe connected to the second heat exchanger 201 and the proportional three-way valve 203, i.e., increase the flow rate of the coolant with a higher temperature. In this way, the temperature of the mixed coolant will not be too low, which can prevent the generation of a large amount of condensate in the gas circulation loop 10 and ensure the normal operation of the engine.

[0056] In some optional embodiments, the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the cryogenic radiator 202 can also be controlled to be open, and the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger 201 can be controlled to be closed. The first and second ports of the proportional three-way valve 203 are open, and the third port of the proportional three-way valve 203 is closed. At this time, the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the cryogenic radiator 202 is in a connected state, and the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger 201 is also in a connected / closed state. Accordingly, after the coolant flowing out of the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 enters the first port of the proportional three-way valve 203, all the coolant flows in through the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator 202 and then flows out through the coolant outlet of the low-temperature radiator 202, entering the coolant pipe of the gas circulation loop 10, where it exchanges heat with the high-temperature gas at the first heat exchanger 101. For example, when the ambient temperature is not low, the coolant temperature after heat exchange with the low-temperature radiator 202 will not be too low. When the first heat exchanger 101 is exchanging heat with the high-temperature gas, excessive condensate will not be produced. Therefore, it will not affect the normal operation of the engine, and there is no need to introduce higher-temperature coolant to adjust the coolant temperature after passing through the low-temperature radiator 202. The third port of the proportional three-way valve can be closed, and the second coolant circulation loop 30 does not need to be involved.

[0057] In some other embodiments, the first coolant circulation loop 20 further includes an electronic water pump 204, which is connected in series in the first coolant circulation loop 20. The electronic water pump 204 is used to provide the power required for the coolant flow, driving the coolant to flow in the loop. For example, as shown in FIG1, the electronic water pump 204 is located between the outlet end of the first coolant circulation loop 20 and the inlet end of the proportional three-way valve 203. The specific position can be set according to actual needs. This embodiment is only for illustrative purposes.

[0058] In some embodiments, referring to FIG1, the second coolant circulation loop 30 is disposed on one side of the engine 102; the second coolant circulation loop 30 is disposed on the coolant pipe between the coolant inlet and the coolant outlet of the engine 102.

[0059] When the engine 102 is running, it generates high temperatures from combustion gases, so it requires coolant to cool it down and ensure normal operation. Therefore, this embodiment also includes a second coolant circulation loop 30, which is located on the coolant pipe between the coolant inlet and outlet of the engine 102, for example, on the cylinder side of the engine 102. The high-temperature coolant passing through the engine 102 is introduced into the second coolant circulation loop 30. The high-temperature coolant then passes through the coolant pipe connected to the engine 102 in the second heat exchanger 201, where it exchanges heat with the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20, increasing the temperature of the first coolant circulation loop 20. This not only avoids the problem of the coolant temperature in the first coolant circulation loop 20 being too low, which could prevent the engine 102 from operating normally, but also recovers and utilizes the heat generated during the engine 102's operation.

[0060] In some embodiments, continuing to refer to FIG1, the gas circulation loop 10 further includes an exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103. The exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103 is disposed between the exhaust port and the intake port of the engine 102; the exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103 is used to cool a portion of the exhaust gas discharged from the exhaust port of the engine 102.

[0061] An exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103 is installed between the exhaust port and the intake port of the engine 102. The intake port of the exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103 is connected to the intake port of the engine 102 through a gas pipe of the first heat exchanger 101, and the exhaust port of the exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103 is connected to the exhaust port of the engine 102. Part of the exhaust gas discharged from the engine 102 can be discharged into the external environment, while the other part enters the exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103 for cooling, preventing excessively high temperatures from causing knocking or other problems when it subsequently enters the engine 102. After being cooled, the exhaust gas mixes with the outside air and then re-enters the first heat exchanger 101 for further cooling. Since the main components of the exhaust gas are water and carbon dioxide, introducing a portion of the exhaust gas into the engine 102 can reduce the combustion temperature to a certain extent, thereby reducing exhaust emissions and fuel consumption.

[0062] In some embodiments, continuing to refer to FIG1, the gas recirculation loop 10 further includes: an exhaust gas recirculation regulating valve 104, a compressor 105, a turbine 106, a throttle valve 107, an intake manifold 108, and a catalyst 109.

[0063] The exhaust gas recirculation regulating valve 104, compressor 105, turbine 106, throttle valve 107, intake manifold 108, catalytic converter 109, and gas recirculation pipeline of first heat exchanger 101 are connected to form gas recirculation loop 10.

[0064] In addition to the exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103, the gas recirculation circuit 10 also includes an exhaust gas recirculation regulating valve 104. The regulating valve 104 is connected to the exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103. By controlling the opening of the regulating valve 104, the amount of exhaust gas entering the engine 102 can be controlled to ensure that the amount of exhaust gas in the cylinders of the engine 102 meets the usage requirements. This prevents excessive exhaust gas in the cylinders and maintains combustion stability. The gas recirculation circuit 10 also includes a compressor 105 and a turbine 106, which together provide turbocharging. The compressor 105 introduces fresh air from the outside environment into the engine 102. The compressor 105 is connected to the turbine 106, which in turn is connected to the exhaust port of the engine 102. This effectively turbocharges the fresh air on the intake side of the compressor 105, resulting in more fresh air in the cylinders of the engine 102 and more complete combustion. A throttle valve 107 is also provided at the outlet end of the gas pipe of the first heat exchanger 101. The throttle valve 107 is connected to the engine 102 through the intake manifold 108. The engine 102 includes multiple cylinders. By controlling the throttle valve 107, the amount of gas entering the engine 102 through the intake manifold 108 can be controlled. The gas enters different cylinders through the intake manifold 108 and participates in the combustion of the fuel mixture in the cylinder to provide power to the vehicle. After combustion, a large amount of exhaust gas is produced. Part of it is catalyzed by the catalytic converter 109 and discharged into the external environment after meeting emission requirements. Another part enters the exhaust gas recirculation cooler 103, is cooled, mixes with fresh air, and re-enters the engine 102 to participate in combustion.

[0065] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein do not limit the specific structure of the cryogenic cooling cycle system, nor do they limit the connection method of each structure in the gas circulation loop. Similarly, they do not limit the specific structure of the gas circulation loop, the first coolant circulation loop, and the second coolant circulation loop. The above embodiments are only illustrative examples and can be set according to actual needs.

[0066] Figure 3 is a schematic flowchart of a cryogenic cooling cycle method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 3, this embodiment of the disclosure also provides a cryogenic cooling cycle method applicable to any of the cryogenic cooling cycle systems described in the above embodiments. The method includes steps S100-S200:

[0067] S100: Obtain the target temperature required for the engine intake.

[0068] S200: Based on the target temperature, start the first coolant circulation loop and the second coolant circulation loop.

[0069] Based on the aforementioned low-temperature cooling cycle system setup, the target temperature required for the engine intake can first be obtained. This target temperature refers to the ideal outlet temperature of the gas entering the engine intake in the gas circulation loop. At this target temperature, no condensation will occur, and it can be calculated based on environmental conditions. If the outlet temperature is too low, it means the temperature in that location of the gas circulation loop is too low. Excessively low temperatures will cause a large amount of condensation to form, affecting the normal operation of the engine.

[0070] For example, this embodiment of the disclosure aims to reduce condensate generated within the first heat exchanger to prevent it from affecting engine operation. When the relative humidity within the first heat exchanger is less than 100%, no condensate is generated. Therefore, by adjusting the relative humidity within the first heat exchanger, the purpose of reducing condensate can be achieved. Relative humidity is related to gas pressure and gas temperature. In the structure provided in this embodiment, the gas pressure is constant, so it is necessary to adjust the gas temperature to reduce condensate. Gas temperature refers to the outlet temperature of the gas in the gas circulation loop when it enters the engine intake port; the adjusted gas temperature is the target temperature required for the engine intake port.

[0071] Therefore, based on the target temperature, the first and second coolant circulation loops are activated. Specifically, after obtaining the target temperature required for the engine intake, it is determined whether the current outlet temperature of the gas circulation loop meets the target temperature. If it does, there is no need to adjust the low-temperature cooling circulation system, the gas in the gas circulation loop will not produce a large amount of condensate, and the engine can operate normally. If the outlet temperature of the gas circulation loop does not meet the target temperature, the outlet temperature of the gas circulation loop needs to be adjusted. The coolant flowing in the first coolant circulation loop is a low-temperature coolant, while the coolant in the second coolant circulation loop is a high-temperature coolant. The first coolant circulation loop is coupled to the second coolant circulation loop through the second heat exchanger, increasing the temperature of a portion of the low-temperature coolant in the first coolant circulation loop, thus raising the temperature of the coolant flowing into the first heat exchanger. Since the inlet temperature of the first heat exchanger is equal to its outlet temperature, the outlet temperature of the first heat exchanger can be increased, correspondingly increasing the temperature of the engine intake to meet the target temperature, preventing the outlet temperature of the first heat exchanger from being too low, which would produce a large amount of condensate and affect engine operation.

[0072] For example, the target temperature can be obtained based on the molar mass of the gas in the gas circulation loop. First, the gas circulation loop includes fresh air and exhaust gas. The molar mass of water in the fresh air and the molar mass of water in the exhaust gas are calculated respectively, thereby obtaining the total molar mass of water in the gas. The target temperature is then calculated using the ideal gas law. Specifically, it can be calculated based on parameters such as intake air humidity, engine intake pressure, target exhaust gas flow rate, and relative humidity.

[0073] Specifically, the molar mass n of water in the air air水 It can be calculated using the following formula:

[0074] Where, n air水 P represents the molar mass of water in the air; atm Indicates intake pressure; m air Indicates air intake volume; RH indicates intake humidity; P sat1水 This represents the saturated vapor pressure of water at the intake temperature.

[0075] The ideal combustion equation for gasoline in air is as follows:

[0076] Based on the above formula, the molar mass M of the exhaust gas can be calculated. egr :

[0077] The proportion of water C in the exhaust gas can be obtained from the above formula:

[0078] Therefore, the molar mass n of water in the exhaust gas egr水 It can be calculated using the following formula:

[0079] Where, n egr水 P represents the molar mass of water in the exhaust gas. atm Indicates intake pressure; RH indicates intake humidity; P sat1水 This represents the saturated vapor pressure of water at the intake temperature.

[0080] Based on the molar mass n of water in the air air水 and the molar mass n of water in the exhaust gas egr水 This allows us to obtain the total molar mass of water in the gas circulation loop, and thus determine the required target temperature T1.

[0081] Among them, P max水 The saturated vapor pressure of water is expressed in m when the humidity RHmix is ​​100%. air Indicates air intake volume, m egr Indicates the target exhaust gas EGR flow rate; nair水 n represents the molar mass of water in the air. egr水 R represents the molar mass of water in the exhaust gas; ρ represents the gas constant; ρ represents the air density at pressure Pin, which can be obtained by looking up a table; Pin represents the intake pressure.

[0082] The target temperature T1 can be calculated using the above formula, which is the outlet temperature of the gas in the gas circulation loop when it enters the engine intake under ideal conditions. In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger in the gas circulation loop adopts a counter-flow design, meaning the gas flow direction in the gas pipe is opposite to the coolant flow direction in the coolant pipe, so that in low-temperature environments, the outlet temperature of the first heat exchanger is the same as the coolant inlet temperature. The outlet temperature of the first heat exchanger is also the outlet temperature of the gas in the gas circulation loop when it enters the engine intake, as mentioned in this embodiment.

[0083] In some other scenarios, the target temperature required for the engine intake will also be related to the current operating conditions. For example, when the vehicle's speed or torque increases, the target temperature required for the engine intake needs to be adjusted accordingly, such as by increasing it. At this time, the temperature of the coolant in the first circulation coolant loop can also be adjusted to meet the engine's requirements.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first coolant circulation loop further includes a low-temperature radiator and a proportional three-way valve; based on the target temperature, activating the first coolant loop and the second coolant loop includes:

[0085] The coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator is controlled by a proportional three-way valve to open or close the gas circulation loop, and the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger is controlled by a proportional three-way valve to open or close the gas circulation loop.

[0086] For example, continuing to refer to Figure 2, when it is necessary to adjust the low-temperature cooling circulation system based on the target temperature, the flow of coolant in the first coolant circulation loop can be controlled by controlling the proportional three-way valve. For instance, if the outlet temperature of the gas circulation loop does not meet the target temperature and is lower than the target temperature, then all three ports of the proportional three-way valve 203 can be opened.

[0087] The coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator 202 is in a conductive state, as is the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger 201. The coolant flowing from the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 enters the first port of the proportional three-way valve 203 and splits into two paths. One path flows into the low-temperature radiator 202 through its coolant inlet and out through its coolant outlet; this path has a lower coolant temperature. The other path flows into the second heat exchanger 201 through the coolant inlet of the pipe connecting the proportional three-way valve 203 and out through the outlet of that pipe; this path exchanges heat with the second coolant circulation loop 30, so its coolant temperature is higher. The temperature of the mixed coolant is neither too high nor too low, and it flows to the coolant inlet of the gas circulation loop 10. The inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger 101 is increased, and heat exchange occurs with the high-temperature gas at the first heat exchanger 101, preventing excessive condensation due to low temperature. Correspondingly, the outlet gas temperature of the first heat exchanger gas circulation loop 10 is also increased.

[0088] In some other scenarios, if the outlet temperature of the gas circulation loop 10 meets the target temperature, then the first and second ports of the proportional three-way valve 203 can be opened, and the third port of the proportional three-way valve 203 can be closed. The coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator 202 is in a connected state, and the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger 201 is also in a connected and disconnected state.

[0089] Since the outlet temperature of the gas circulation loop 10 meets the target temperature, and the outlet temperature is equal to the inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger 101, the current inlet water temperature of the first heat exchanger 101 will not produce a large amount of condensate, and there is no need to increase the temperature of the coolant in the first coolant circulation loop 20. Therefore, the coolant flowing out of the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop 10 enters the first port of the proportional three-way valve 203, and can flow into the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator 202, and out of the coolant outlet of the low-temperature radiator 202, entering the coolant pipe of the gas circulation loop 10. It exchanges heat with the high-temperature gas at the first heat exchanger 101, and will not produce too much condensate. Therefore, it will not affect the normal operation of the engine, and there is no need to introduce higher-temperature coolant to adjust the temperature of the coolant passing through the low-temperature radiator 202. The third port of the proportional three-way valve can be closed.

[0090] In some embodiments, before the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator, which controls the proportional three-way valve to open or close, and the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger, the system further includes:

[0091] The coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the low-temperature radiator and the coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the second heat exchanger are obtained.

[0092] The opening degree of the proportional three-way valve is determined based on the coolant temperature at the outlet of the low-temperature radiator, the coolant temperature at the outlet of the second heat exchanger, and the target temperature.

[0093] In this embodiment, before controlling the opening and closing of the coolant pipeline via the proportional three-way valve, it is necessary to determine the opening degree of the proportional three-way valve, and then adjust the coolant flow rate in the coolant pipeline containing the low-temperature coolant and the coolant pipeline containing the second heat exchanger. Different coolant flow rates in the two pipelines result in different inlet water temperatures entering the first heat exchanger, and correspondingly, different outlet air temperatures.

[0094] Since the coolant ultimately entering the first heat exchanger is a mixture of two coolants, it is necessary to obtain the temperature of the coolant outlet from both the low-temperature radiator and the second heat exchanger. To obtain the coolant temperature, temperature detection devices can be installed at the coolant outlets of both the low-temperature radiator and the second heat exchanger, allowing for direct temperature measurement. This method is more convenient and provides a faster way to obtain the required temperature.

[0095] In some other implementations, coolant temperature can also be obtained indirectly. For example, since the coolant passing through the low-temperature radiator's coolant pipes exchanges heat with the external environment, the ambient temperature can be detected, for instance, using the vehicle's existing ambient temperature detection device, combined with the performance of the low-temperature radiator itself, to obtain the coolant temperature at the radiator's outlet. Similarly, the coolant passing through the second heat exchanger's coolant pipes exchanges heat with the coolant in the second coolant circulation loop, for instance, using a temperature detection device in the engine to obtain the coolant temperature in the second coolant circulation loop, combined with the performance of the second heat exchanger itself, to obtain the coolant temperature at the second heat exchanger's outlet. This method eliminates the need for additional detection devices, saving costs.

[0096] Based on the coolant temperature at the outlet of the low-temperature radiator, the coolant temperature at the outlet of the second heat exchanger, and the required target temperature, the opening degree of the proportional three-way valve is calculated and determined as follows:

[0097] Where T1 represents the target temperature, T2 represents the coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the low-temperature radiator, T3 represents the coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the second heat exchanger, and N% represents the opening degree of the proportional three-way valve.

[0098] Therefore, after obtaining the above three temperature values, the opening degree of the proportional three-way valve can be calculated. The flow rate of different ports of the proportional three-way valve can be adjusted according to this opening degree to control the flow rate of coolant through the coolant pipe of the low-temperature radiator and the flow rate of coolant through the coolant pipe of the second heat exchanger.

[0099] For example, Figure 4 is a schematic flowchart of another low-temperature cooling cycle method provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4, the intake air humidity RH, engine intake pressure Pin, and target exhaust gas flow rate megr are first obtained. Based on a relative humidity RHmix of 100%, the target temperature T1 required for the engine intake is obtained. Other parameters and calculation methods can be referred to the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. The coolant temperature T2 at the outlet of the low-temperature radiator is calculated based on the performance of the low-temperature radiator and the ambient temperature. The coolant temperature T3 at the outlet of the second heat exchanger is calculated based on the engine water temperature and the performance of the second heat exchanger. Based on the target temperature T1, the coolant temperature T2 at the outlet of the low-temperature radiator, and the coolant temperature T3 at the outlet of the second heat exchanger, the opening degree N% of the proportional three-way valve is calculated to ensure that the final outlet temperature is T1, preventing condensation and ensuring normal engine operation.

[0100] In addition to the cryogenic cooling cycle method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, the embodiments of this disclosure also provide a cryogenic cooling cycle device, which includes a target temperature acquisition module and a control module.

[0101] The target temperature acquisition module is used to acquire the target temperature required by the engine intake. The control module is used to activate the first and second coolant circulation loops based on the target temperature.

[0102] The cryogenic cooling cycle apparatus disclosed in the above embodiments can perform the cryogenic cooling cycle methods disclosed in the above embodiments and have the same or corresponding beneficial effects. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0103] This disclosure also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the cryogenic cooling cycle method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0104] It should be noted that examples of readable storage media include, but are not limited to, electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatuses, or devices, or any combination thereof. More specific examples of readable storage media (a non-exhaustive list) include: electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), optical fibers, portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof. In this document, a readable storage medium can be any tangible medium that contains or stores a program that can be used by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0105] The storage medium provided in the above embodiments of this disclosure and the low-temperature cooling cycle method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure are based on the same inventive concept and have the same beneficial effects as the methods adopted, run or implemented by the applications or instructions stored therein.

[0106] This disclosure also provides a vehicle that includes any of the cryogenic cooling cycle systems provided in this disclosure, which have the same or corresponding beneficial effects. To avoid repetition, these will not be described again here.

[0107] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0108] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this disclosure, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement it. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A cryogenic cooling cycle system, passing through an engine, comprising: Gas circulation loop, a first coolant circulation loop for refrigeration, and a second coolant circulation loop for heating; The gas circulation loop includes a first heat exchanger; the gas circulation loop is coupled to the first coolant circulation loop through the first heat exchanger; The first coolant circulation loop includes a second heat exchanger; the first coolant circulation loop is coupled to the second coolant circulation loop through the second heat exchanger. The gas recirculation loop is used to circulate the gas entering the engine; wherein the gas includes air and exhaust gas; The first heat exchanger is a device for exchanging heat between the coolant in the coolant pipe of the first coolant circulation loop and the gas in the gas pipe of the gas circulation loop; the second heat exchanger is a device for exchanging heat between at least a portion of the coolant in the coolant pipe of the first coolant circulation loop and the coolant in the coolant pipe of the second coolant circulation loop.

2. The cryogenic cooling cycle system according to claim 1, wherein, The first coolant circulation loop also includes a low-temperature radiator; The low-temperature radiator is connected in parallel with the second heat exchanger in the first coolant circulation loop.

3. The cryogenic cooling cycle system according to claim 2, wherein, The first coolant circulation loop also includes a proportional three-way valve; The proportional three-way valve is located on the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator, and between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger. The proportional three-way valve is used to open or close the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator, and to open or close the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger.

4. The cryogenic cooling cycle system according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The second coolant circulation loop is located on the engine side; the second coolant circulation loop is located on the coolant pipe between the coolant inlet and coolant outlet of the engine.

5. The cryogenic cooling cycle system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The gas circulation loop also includes an exhaust gas recirculation cooler; The exhaust gas recirculation cooler is disposed between the exhaust port and the intake port of the engine; the exhaust gas recirculation cooler is used to cool a portion of the exhaust gas discharged from the engine exhaust port.

6. The cryogenic cooling cycle system according to claim 5, wherein, The gas recirculation loop also includes: an exhaust gas recirculation regulating valve, a compressor, a turbine, a throttle valve, an intake manifold, and a catalytic converter; The exhaust gas recirculation cooler, the exhaust gas recirculation regulating valve, the compressor, the turbine, the throttle valve, the intake manifold, the catalytic converter, and the gas recirculation pipeline of the first heat exchanger are connected to form a gas recirculation loop.

7. A cryogenic cooling cycle method, applicable to the cryogenic cooling cycle system as described in any one of claims 1-6, the method comprising: To obtain the target temperature required for the engine intake; Based on the target temperature, the first coolant circulation loop and the second coolant circulation loop are activated.

8. The cryogenic cooling cycle method according to claim 7, wherein, The first coolant circulation loop also includes a low-temperature radiator and a proportional three-way valve; the step of activating the first coolant circulation loop and the second coolant circulation loop based on the target temperature includes: The proportional three-way valve controls the opening or closing of the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator, as well as the opening or closing of the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger.

9. The cryogenic cooling cycle method according to claim 8, wherein, Before controlling the proportional three-way valve to open or close the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the low-temperature radiator, and before opening or closing the coolant pipe between the coolant outlet of the gas circulation loop and the coolant inlet of the second heat exchanger, the method further includes: The coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the low-temperature radiator and the coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the second heat exchanger are obtained. The opening degree of the proportional three-way valve is determined based on the coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the low-temperature radiator, the coolant temperature at the coolant outlet of the second heat exchanger, and the target temperature.

10. A vehicle, wherein, Includes the cryogenic cooling cycle system as described in any one of claims 1-6.

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