Energy storage system and control method therefor

Abstract

An energy storage system and a control method therefor. The energy storage system comprises a battery, an energy storage converter, and a thermal management system. The thermal management system comprises: a first heat exchange flow path, comprising a first pump and a first heat exchanger for performing heat exchange with the battery, and configured to form a first heat exchange loop when the first pump is turned on; a second heat exchange flow path, comprising a second pump and a second heat exchanger for performing heat exchange with the energy storage converter, and configured to form a second heat exchange loop when the second pump is turned on; a flow path switching mechanism, the first heat exchange flow path being in operable communication with the second heat exchange flow path by means of the flow path switching mechanism; and a processor, configured to perform on-off control on the first pump and the second pump on the basis of the ambient temperature, and to perform switching control on the flow path switching mechanism to switch the operation mode of the thermal management system.

Description

Energy storage systems and their control methods

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to CN application No. 202411612398.4, filed on November 12, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to the field of energy storage technology, and in particular to an energy storage system and its control method. Background Technology

[0004] With increasing environmental pollution, the new energy industry is attracting more and more attention. Within this industry, battery technology is a crucial factor in its development. Rechargeable batteries, which can be reactivated after discharge, have broad application prospects in large-scale energy storage. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect of this disclosure, an energy storage system is provided, comprising: a battery, an energy storage converter, and a thermal management system, wherein the thermal management system includes:

[0006] The first heat exchange path includes a first pump and a first heat exchanger for exchanging heat with the battery, and is configured to form a first heat exchange loop when the first pump is turned on.

[0007] The second heat exchange path includes a second pump and a second heat exchanger for exchanging heat with the energy storage converter, and is configured to form a second heat exchange loop when the second pump is turned on.

[0008] A flow path switching mechanism, wherein the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path are operably connected via the flow path switching mechanism; and

[0009] The processor is configured to control the opening and closing of the first pump and the second pump according to the ambient temperature, and to control the switching of the flow path switching mechanism to switch the operating mode of the thermal management system.

[0010] In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger in the first heat exchange path and the second heat exchanger in the second heat exchange path can exchange heat with the battery and the energy storage converter, respectively. The first heat exchange path and the second heat exchange path are operably connected through the path switching mechanism. The processor can issue control commands to the first pump in the first heat exchange path, the second pump in the second heat exchange path, and the path switching mechanism according to the ambient temperature, so as to realize the opening and closing control of the first pump and the second pump and the switching control of the path switching mechanism, so as to switch the working mode of the thermal management system, thereby enabling the working mode of the thermal management system to adapt to the ambient temperature and improving the system's energy efficiency and flexibility.

[0011] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to:

[0012] In response to the thermal management system switching to a first operating mode, the first heat exchange circuit and the second heat exchange circuit operate independently;

[0013] In response to the thermal management system switching to a second operating mode, at least a portion of the flow paths of the first heat exchange loop and the second heat exchange flow path form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop.

[0014] In this embodiment, when the thermal management system switches to the first working mode, the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path each form the first heat exchange loop and the second heat exchange loop, respectively, and operate independently. This allows for independent configuration and control based on the thermal management requirements of the battery and the energy storage converter, thus meeting more flexible thermal management needs.

[0015] In some embodiments, the flow path switching mechanism includes:

[0016] At least two connected flow paths, each connected to the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path at both ends, respectively; and

[0017] A control valve, disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths, is configured to switch the on / off state of the connected flow path in which the control valve is disposed;

[0018] The processor is configured as follows:

[0019] In response to the ambient temperature being greater than or equal to a first ambient temperature threshold T th1 This causes both the first pump and the second pump to start, and the control valve to be switched to the off state, so as to switch the thermal management system to the first working mode.

[0020] In response to the ambient temperature being less than or equal to a second ambient temperature threshold T th2This causes the first pump to turn on, the second pump to turn off, and the control valve to switch to the open state, thereby switching the thermal management system to the second operating mode, wherein the first ambient temperature threshold T th1 Greater than the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 .

[0021] In this embodiment, the working mode of the thermal management system is switched according to the comparison result of the ambient temperature relative to the threshold, which can effectively meet the different thermal management needs under different ambient temperatures and save energy.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first ambient temperature threshold T th1 The second ambient temperature threshold T th2 Satisfy: T th1 =T batt -A,T th2 =T batt -B,T th1 >T th2 ;

[0023] Among them, T batt The heat exchange medium temperature within the first heat exchanger is the temperature that allows the battery temperature to be maintained within the operating range. A and B are preset constant values ​​that satisfy 3℃ ≤ A < 5℃. <B≤5℃。

[0024] In this embodiment, the first ambient temperature threshold T is determined by preset constant values ​​A and B, respectively. th1 Second ambient temperature threshold T th2 It can determine the current working mode based on an appropriate ambient temperature threshold, which helps to meet thermal management requirements and save energy.

[0025] In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a compression refrigeration cycle loop, which includes a compressor and an evaporator. A portion of the first heat exchange flow path passes through the evaporator and exchanges heat with the compression refrigeration cycle loop through the evaporator.

[0026] The processor is configured as follows:

[0027] In response to the thermal management system switching to the first operating mode, the compressor is operated at a first operating frequency;

[0028] In response to the thermal management system switching to the second operating mode, the compressor is shut down or operates at a second operating frequency, wherein the second operating frequency is less than the first operating frequency.

[0029] In this embodiment, controlling the start-up and shutdown or operating frequency of the compressor according to the working mode of the thermal management system can meet the thermal management requirements under different ambient temperatures and effectively reduce energy consumption.

[0030] In some embodiments, the flow path switching mechanism includes at least two connected flow paths, with each connected flow path having its two ends connected to the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path, respectively; the thermal management system further includes a heating mechanism, which is disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths and is configured to heat the heat exchange medium flowing through the connected flow path where the heating mechanism is located when the heating function is activated;

[0031] The processor is configured as follows:

[0032] In response to the thermal management system switching to the first operating mode, the heating mechanism shuts off its heating function;

[0033] In response to the thermal management system switching to the second operating mode, the heating mechanism turns the heating function on or off.

[0034] In this embodiment, controlling the opening and closing of the heating mechanism according to the working mode of the thermal management system can meet the thermal management requirements under different ambient temperatures and effectively save energy consumption.

[0035] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to:

[0036] In response to the thermal management system switching to the first operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger in the first heat exchange loop... out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The temperature difference ΔT1 is used to control the output flow rate of the first pump.

[0037] In this embodiment, considering that the temperature difference ΔT1 of the first heat exchanger represents to some extent the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the battery, the output flow of the first pump can be controlled according to the temperature difference ΔT1 in the first working mode of the thermal management system, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the entire system and saving energy.

[0038] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to:

[0039] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This increases the rotational speed of the first pump, thereby increasing the output flow rate of the first pump;

[0040] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2This reduces the rotational speed of the first pump, thereby decreasing the output flow rate of the first pump; and / or

[0041] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 And less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This keeps the rotational speed of the first pump constant;

[0042] Wherein, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 .

[0043] In this embodiment, the temperature difference ΔT1 is based on the first temperature difference threshold ΔT. th1 Second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 By selectively controlling the speed of the first pump according to the relationship between the magnitude of the pump and the pump's speed, it is beneficial to improve heat exchange efficiency, reduce the energy consumption of the first pump, and improve energy-saving effect.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Satisfy: 3.5℃≤ΔT th1 ≤4.5℃; the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 Satisfy: 1℃≤ΔT th2 ≤2.5℃.

[0045] In this embodiment, by setting the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Satisfy: 3.5℃≤ΔT th1 ≤4.5℃, the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 Satisfy: 1℃≤ΔT th2 With a temperature of ≤2.5℃, more effective control of the first pump can be achieved, which can meet the requirements of improving heat exchange efficiency, reducing the energy consumption of the first pump, and improving energy-saving effect.

[0046] In some embodiments, the second heat exchange path further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger connected in series with the second heat exchanger, and the processor is configured to:

[0047] In response to the thermal management system switching to the first operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger and the natural cooling heat exchanger in the second heat exchange loop... out2 With inlet temperature T in2 The temperature difference ΔT2 and the inlet pressure P of the second pump in2 With the inlet pressure P of the first pump in1 The pressure difference ΔP is used to control the output flow of the second pump.

[0048] In this embodiment, a natural cooling heat exchanger is installed in the second heat exchange flow path. This allows the natural cooling heat exchanger to participate in the natural heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the external environment in both the first and second operating modes of the thermal management system, which helps to further reduce system energy consumption. Furthermore, considering that the temperature difference ΔT2 of the second heat exchanger represents, to some extent, the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the energy storage converter, and that the pressure difference between the second and first heat exchange loops cannot be too high (as this could affect the balance between the two loops and cause flow resistance due to a mismatch between the flow rate of the natural cooling heat exchanger in the second loop and the loop itself), the output flow rate of the second pump needs to be controlled based on the temperature difference ΔT2 and the pressure difference ΔP in the first operating mode of the thermal management system.

[0049] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to:

[0050] In response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 And the pressure difference ΔP is less than or equal to the pressure threshold ΔP th This increases the rotational speed of the second pump, thereby increasing its output flow rate.

[0051] In response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being less than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 This reduces the rotational speed of the second pump, thereby decreasing the output flow rate of the second pump; and / or

[0052] In response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than or equal to the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 And less than or equal to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 This keeps the speed of the second pump constant;

[0053] Among them, the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Greater than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 .

[0054] In this embodiment, based on the temperature difference ΔT2 relative to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 and the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 Taking into account the relationship between the magnitudes of the two heat exchange circuits and the pressure difference ΔP between them, selectively controlling the speed of the second pump is beneficial to improving heat exchange efficiency and reducing the energy consumption of the second pump, thereby improving energy-saving effect.

[0055] In some embodiments, the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Satisfy: 6℃≤ΔT th3 ≤7℃; the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 Satisfy: 4℃≤ΔT th4≤5℃; the pressure threshold ΔP th Satisfies: 25 kPa ≤ ΔP th ≤45KPa.

[0056] In this embodiment, by setting the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Satisfy: 6℃≤ΔT th3 ≤7℃, the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 Satisfy: 4℃≤ΔT th4 ≤5℃, the pressure threshold ΔP th Satisfies: 25 kPa ≤ ΔP th With a pressure of ≤45KPa, more effective control of the second pump can be achieved, which can meet the requirements of improving heat exchange efficiency, reducing the energy consumption of the second pump, and improving energy-saving effect.

[0057] In some embodiments, the second heat exchange path further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger connected in series with the second heat exchanger, and the flow path switching mechanism includes:

[0058] At least two connected flow paths, each connected to the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path at both ends, respectively; and

[0059] A control valve, disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths, is configured to switch the on / off state of the connected flow path in which the control valve is disposed;

[0060] The processor is configured to:

[0061] In response to the thermal management system switching to the second operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger and the natural cooling heat exchanger in the second heat exchange flow path. out2 The flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination circuit is controlled.

[0062] In this embodiment, a natural cooling heat exchanger is installed in the second heat exchange flow path. This allows the natural cooling heat exchanger to participate in the natural heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the external environment in both the first and second operating modes of the thermal management system, which helps to further reduce system energy consumption. Furthermore, in the second operating mode of the thermal management system, the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path can form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop. The outlet temperature T of the series flow path section... out2 The level of the value can indicate the heat exchange margin of the natural cooling heat exchanger to a certain extent, thereby allowing for targeted control of the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination loop. This ensures that the natural cooling heat exchanger is fully utilized to meet the thermal management requirements of the thermal management system and helps reduce system energy consumption.

[0063] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to:

[0064] In response to the outlet temperature T out2 Less than the first target temperature threshold T th3 Increase the opening of the control valve to increase the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination circuit;

[0065] In response to the outlet temperature T out2 Greater than the second target temperature threshold T th4 Adjusting the opening of the control valve to reduce the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination circuit; and / or

[0066] In response to the outlet temperature T out2 Less than or equal to the first target temperature threshold T th3 And greater than or equal to the second target temperature threshold T th4 This ensures that the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination circuit remains constant.

[0067] Wherein, the second target temperature threshold T th4 Greater than the first target temperature threshold T th3 .

[0068] In this embodiment, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section out2 Relative to the first target temperature threshold T th3 Second target temperature threshold T th4 By selectively adjusting the opening degree of the control valve according to the size relationship, it is beneficial to meet thermal management requirements, reduce energy consumption, and improve energy-saving effect.

[0069] In some embodiments, the first target temperature threshold T th3 Satisfy: 15℃≤T th3 ≤17℃; the second target temperature threshold T th4 Satisfy: 19℃≤T th4 ≤21℃.

[0070] In this embodiment, by setting the first target temperature threshold T th3 Satisfy: 15℃≤T th3 ≤17℃, the second target temperature threshold T th4 Satisfy: 19℃≤T th4 At ≤21℃, more effective control of the control valve can be achieved, thereby meeting the thermal management requirements of the thermal management system and helping to reduce system energy consumption and improve energy-saving effect.

[0071] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to:

[0072] In response to the thermal management system switching to the second operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger in the first heat exchange loop... out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The temperature difference ΔT1 is used to control the output flow rate of the first pump.

[0073] In this embodiment, considering that the temperature difference ΔT1 of the first heat exchanger represents to some extent the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the battery, the output flow rate of the first pump can be controlled according to the temperature difference ΔT1 in the second working mode of the thermal management system, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the entire system and save energy.

[0074] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to:

[0075] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This increases the rotational speed of the first pump, thereby increasing the output flow rate of the first pump;

[0076] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 This reduces the rotational speed of the first pump, thereby decreasing the output flow rate of the first pump; and / or

[0077] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 And less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This keeps the rotational speed of the first pump constant;

[0078] Wherein, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 .

[0079] In this embodiment, when the thermal management system switches to the second operating mode, it determines the temperature difference ΔT1 relative to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT. th1 Second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 By selectively controlling the speed of the first pump according to the relationship between the magnitude of the pump and the pump's speed, it is beneficial to improve heat exchange efficiency, reduce the energy consumption of the first pump, and improve energy-saving effect.

[0080] In some embodiments, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Satisfy: 3.5℃≤ΔT th1 ≤4.5℃; the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 Satisfy: 1℃≤ΔT th2 ≤2.5℃.

[0081] In this embodiment, by setting the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1Satisfy: 3.5℃≤ΔT th1 ≤4.5℃, the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 Satisfy: 1℃≤ΔT th2 With a temperature of ≤2.5℃, more effective control of the first pump can be achieved, which can meet the requirements of improving heat exchange efficiency, reducing the energy consumption of the first pump, and improving energy-saving effect.

[0082] In one aspect of this disclosure, a control method for the aforementioned energy storage system is provided, wherein the flow path switching mechanism includes at least two connected flow paths and a control valve, wherein the two ends of each connected flow path are respectively connected to the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path, and the control valve is disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths and is configured to switch the on / off state of the connected flow path in which the control valve is disposed.

[0083] The control method includes:

[0084] In response to the ambient temperature being greater than or equal to a first ambient temperature threshold T th1 This allows both the first and second pumps to be turned on, and the control valve to be switched to the off state, thereby switching the thermal management system to the first operating mode, so that the first heat exchange circuit and the second heat exchange circuit can operate independently.

[0085] In response to the ambient temperature being less than or equal to a second ambient temperature threshold T th2 This causes the first pump to turn on, the second pump to turn off, and the control valve to switch to the open state, thereby switching the thermal management system to a second operating mode. This causes at least a portion of the flow paths of the first heat exchange loop and the second heat exchange flow path to form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop, wherein the first ambient temperature threshold T... th1 Greater than the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 .

[0086] In this embodiment, based on the comparison result of the ambient temperature relative to the threshold, the working mode of the thermal management system is switched by controlling the first pump, the second pump and the control valve. This can effectively meet the different thermal management needs at different ambient temperatures and save energy.

[0087] In some embodiments, the first ambient temperature threshold T th1 The second ambient temperature threshold T th2 Satisfy: T th1 =T batt -A,T th2 =T batt -B,T th1 >T th2 ;

[0088] Among them, Tbatt The heat exchange medium temperature within the first heat exchanger is the temperature that allows the battery temperature to be maintained within the operating range. A and B are preset constant values ​​that satisfy 3℃ ≤ A < 5℃. <B≤5℃。

[0089] In this embodiment, the first ambient temperature threshold T is determined by preset constant values ​​A and B, respectively. th1 Second ambient temperature threshold T th2 It can determine the current working mode based on an appropriate ambient temperature threshold, which helps to meet thermal management requirements and save energy.

[0090] In some embodiments, the thermal management system further includes a compression refrigeration cycle loop, which includes a compressor and an evaporator. A portion of the first heat exchange flow path passes through the evaporator and exchanges heat with the compression refrigeration cycle loop through the evaporator.

[0091] The control method further includes:

[0092] In response to the thermal management system switching to the first operating mode, the compressor is operated at a first operating frequency;

[0093] In response to the thermal management system switching to the second operating mode, the compressor is shut down or operates at a second operating frequency, wherein the second operating frequency is less than the first operating frequency.

[0094] In this embodiment, controlling the start-up and shutdown or operating frequency of the compressor according to the working mode of the thermal management system can meet the thermal management requirements under different ambient temperatures and effectively reduce energy consumption.

[0095] In some embodiments, the flow path switching mechanism includes at least two connected flow paths, with each connected flow path having its two ends connected to the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path, respectively; the thermal management system further includes a heating mechanism, which is disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths and is configured to heat the heat exchange medium flowing through the connected flow path where the heating mechanism is located when the heating function is activated;

[0096] The control method further includes:

[0097] In response to the thermal management system switching to the first operating mode, the heating mechanism shuts off its heating function;

[0098] In response to the thermal management system switching to the second operating mode, the heating mechanism turns the heating function on or off.

[0099] In this embodiment, controlling the opening and closing of the heating mechanism according to the working mode of the thermal management system can meet the thermal management requirements under different ambient temperatures and effectively save energy consumption.

[0100] In some embodiments, the control method further includes:

[0101] In response to the thermal management system switching to the first operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger in the first heat exchange loop... out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The temperature difference ΔT1 is used to control the output flow rate of the first pump.

[0102] In this embodiment, considering that the temperature difference ΔT1 of the first heat exchanger represents to some extent the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the battery, the output flow of the first pump can be controlled according to the temperature difference ΔT1 in the first working mode of the thermal management system, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the entire system and saving energy.

[0103] In some embodiments, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger in the first heat exchange loop out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The steps for controlling the output flow rate of the first pump based on the temperature difference ΔT1 include:

[0104] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This increases the rotational speed of the first pump, thereby increasing the output flow rate of the first pump;

[0105] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 This reduces the rotational speed of the first pump, thereby decreasing the output flow rate of the first pump; and / or

[0106] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 And less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This keeps the rotational speed of the first pump constant;

[0107] Wherein, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 .

[0108] In this embodiment, the temperature difference ΔT1 is based on the first temperature difference threshold ΔT. th1 Second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 By selectively controlling the speed of the first pump according to the relationship between the magnitude of the pump and the pump's speed, it is beneficial to improve heat exchange efficiency, reduce the energy consumption of the first pump, and improve energy-saving effect.

[0109] In some embodiments, the second heat exchange path further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger connected in series with the second heat exchanger, wherein the control method further includes:

[0110] In response to the thermal management system switching to the first operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger and the natural cooling heat exchanger in the second heat exchange loop... out2 With inlet temperature T in2 The temperature difference ΔT2 and the inlet pressure P of the second pump in2 With the inlet pressure P of the first pump in1 The pressure difference ΔP is used to control the output flow of the second pump.

[0111] In this embodiment, a natural cooling heat exchanger is installed in the second heat exchange flow path. This allows the natural cooling heat exchanger to participate in the natural heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the external environment in both the first and second operating modes of the thermal management system, which helps to further reduce system energy consumption. Furthermore, considering that the temperature difference ΔT2 of the second heat exchanger represents, to some extent, the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the energy storage converter, and that the pressure difference between the second and first heat exchange loops cannot be too high (as this could affect the balance between the two loops and cause flow resistance due to a mismatch between the flow rate of the natural cooling heat exchanger in the second loop and the loop itself), the output flow rate of the second pump needs to be controlled based on the temperature difference ΔT2 and the pressure difference ΔP in the first operating mode of the thermal management system.

[0112] In some embodiments, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger and the natural cooling heat exchanger in the second heat exchange loop... out2 With inlet temperature T in2 The temperature difference ΔT2 and the inlet pressure P of the second pump in2 With the inlet pressure P of the first pump in1 The steps for controlling the output flow of the second pump based on the pressure difference ΔP include:

[0113] In response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 And the pressure difference ΔP is less than or equal to the pressure threshold ΔP th This increases the rotational speed of the second pump, thereby increasing its output flow rate.

[0114] In response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being less than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 This reduces the rotational speed of the second pump, thereby decreasing the output flow rate of the second pump; and / or

[0115] In response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than or equal to the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 And less than or equal to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 This keeps the speed of the second pump constant;

[0116] Among them, the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Greater than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 .

[0117] In this embodiment, based on the temperature difference ΔT2 relative to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 and the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 Taking into account the relationship between the magnitudes of the two heat exchange circuits and the pressure difference ΔP between them, selectively controlling the speed of the second pump is beneficial to improving heat exchange efficiency and reducing the energy consumption of the second pump, thereby improving energy-saving effect.

[0118] In some embodiments, the second heat exchange path further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger connected in series with the second heat exchanger, wherein the control method further includes:

[0119] In response to the thermal management system switching to the second operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger and the natural cooling heat exchanger in the second heat exchange flow path. out2 The flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination circuit is controlled.

[0120] In this embodiment, a natural cooling heat exchanger is installed in the second heat exchange flow path. This allows the natural cooling heat exchanger to participate in the natural heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the external environment in both the first and second operating modes of the thermal management system, which helps to further reduce system energy consumption. Furthermore, in the second operating mode of the thermal management system, the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path can form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop. The outlet temperature T of the series flow path section... out2 The level of the value can indicate the heat exchange margin of the natural cooling heat exchanger to a certain extent, thereby allowing for targeted control of the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination loop. This ensures that the natural cooling heat exchanger is fully utilized to meet the thermal management requirements of the thermal management system and helps reduce system energy consumption.

[0121] In some embodiments, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger and the natural cooling heat exchanger in the second heat exchange flow path. out2 The step of controlling the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination circuit includes:

[0122] In response to the outlet temperature T out2 Less than the first target temperature threshold Tth3 Increase the opening of the control valve to increase the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination circuit;

[0123] In response to the outlet temperature T out2 Greater than the second target temperature threshold T th4 Adjusting the opening of the control valve to reduce the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination circuit; and / or

[0124] In response to the outlet temperature T out2 Less than or equal to the first target temperature threshold T th3 And greater than or equal to the second target temperature threshold T th4 This ensures that the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path in the heat exchange combination circuit remains constant.

[0125] Wherein, the second target temperature threshold T th4 Greater than the first target temperature threshold T th3 .

[0126] In this embodiment, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section out2 Relative to the first target temperature threshold T th3 Second target temperature threshold T th4 By selectively adjusting the opening degree of the control valve according to the size relationship, it is beneficial to meet thermal management requirements, reduce energy consumption, and improve energy-saving effect.

[0127] In some embodiments, the control method further includes:

[0128] In response to the thermal management system switching to the second operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger in the first heat exchange loop... out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The temperature difference ΔT1 is used to control the output flow rate of the first pump.

[0129] In this embodiment, considering that the temperature difference ΔT1 of the first heat exchanger represents to some extent the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the battery, the output flow rate of the first pump can be controlled according to the temperature difference ΔT1 in the second working mode of the thermal management system, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the entire system and save energy.

[0130] In some embodiments, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger in the first heat exchange loop out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The steps for controlling the output flow rate of the first pump based on the temperature difference ΔT1 include:

[0131] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than the first temperature difference threshold ΔTth1 This increases the rotational speed of the first pump, thereby increasing the output flow rate of the first pump;

[0132] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 This reduces the rotational speed of the first pump, thereby decreasing the output flow rate of the first pump; and / or

[0133] In response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 And less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This keeps the rotational speed of the first pump constant;

[0134] Wherein, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 .

[0135] In this embodiment, when the thermal management system switches to the second operating mode, it determines the temperature difference ΔT1 relative to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT. th1 Second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 By selectively controlling the speed of the first pump according to the relationship between the magnitude of the pump and the pump's speed, it is beneficial to improve heat exchange efficiency, reduce the energy consumption of the first pump, and improve energy-saving effect. Attached Figure Description

[0136] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of this disclosure and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0137] This disclosure will become clearer with reference to the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description, wherein:

[0138] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of some embodiments of the energy storage system according to the present disclosure;

[0139] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of control signal connections according to an embodiment of the energy storage system of this disclosure;

[0140] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the thermal management system according to some embodiments of the energy storage system of this disclosure;

[0141] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the medium circulation in the thermal management system in the first working mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 3;

[0142] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the medium circulation in the thermal management system under the second working mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 3;

[0143] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of another medium circulation in the thermal management system under the second working mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0144] It should be understood that the dimensions of the various parts shown in the accompanying drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Furthermore, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar components.

[0145] The reference numerals in the attached diagrams represent: 10-Battery; 20-Power Conversion System (PCS); 30-Thermal Management System; 31-First Heat Exchange Flow Path; 311-First Pump; 312-First Heat Exchanger; 32-Second Heat Exchange Flow Path; 321-Second Pump; 322-Second Heat Exchanger; 323-First Partial Heat Exchange Flow Path; 324-Second Partial Heat Exchange Flow Path; 325-Natural Cooling Heat Exchanger; 3251-Microchannel Heat Exchanger; 326-One-Way Valve; 327-Fan; 33-Connecting Flow Path; 331-First Connecting Flow Path; 332-Second Connecting Flow Path; 333-Expansion Tank; 34-Flow Path Switching Mechanism; 341-Control Valve; 35-Processor; 36-Compression Refrigeration Cycle Loop; 361-Compressor; 362-Condenser; 363-Throttling Device; 364-Evaporator; 365- Gas-liquid separator; 37-Heating mechanism; 371-Heater; 372-Flow control valve; 381-Third pressure sensor; 382-Fourth temperature sensor; 383-Third temperature sensor; 384-Second pressure sensor; 385-First pressure sensor; 386-Second temperature sensor; 387-Fourth pressure sensor; 388-Fifth pressure sensor; 389-First temperature sensor; p1-First position; p2-Second position; p3-Third position; p4-Fourth position. Detailed Implementation

[0146] The embodiments of the technical solutions disclosed herein will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical solutions disclosed herein and are therefore intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0147] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this disclosure have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains; the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this disclosure; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings of this disclosure are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0148] In the description of the embodiments of this disclosure, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary or secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this disclosure, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0149] In this disclosure, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this disclosure. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this disclosure can be combined with other embodiments.

[0150] In the description of the embodiments of this disclosure, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, if the character " / " appears in this disclosure, it generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0151] In the description of the embodiments of this disclosure, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple groups" refers to two or more (including two groups), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0152] In the description of embodiments of this disclosure, the term "at least one" refers to one or more (including two), similarly, "at least one group" refers to one or more (including two) groups, and "at least one piece" refers to one or more (including two) pieces. In the description of embodiments of this disclosure, the term "at least part" refers to part or all of them.

[0153] Unless otherwise specified, in the description of the embodiments of this disclosure, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this disclosure and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0154] In the description of the embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0155] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the energy storage system may include an energy storage device and an energy storage converter. The energy storage device may include one or more batteries for storing electrical energy, and its structure may be an energy storage container, an energy storage cabinet, etc. The batteries in the energy storage device can be used to store surplus electrical energy during off-peak hours in the power system to supplement electricity consumption during peak hours.

[0156] Energy storage converters control the charging and discharging processes of batteries, converting AC to DC power, and can directly supply power to AC loads even without a power grid. An energy storage converter may include a DC / AC bidirectional converter and a controller. The controller receives control commands from the backend via communication and controls the converter to charge or discharge the battery according to the sign and magnitude of the power command, thereby regulating the active and reactive power of the power grid. The controller can communicate with the battery's battery management system (BMS) via a bus interface to obtain battery status information, enabling protective charging and discharging of the battery and improving battery operation safety.

[0157] In this embodiment of the disclosure, a battery refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. A battery cell is the smallest unit constituting a battery. A battery cell includes electrode components capable of undergoing electrochemical reactions. A battery cell can be a rechargeable battery, meaning a battery cell that can be recharged after discharge to activate its active materials and continue to be used.

[0158] The battery cell can be a lithium-ion battery, sodium-ion battery, sodium-lithium-ion battery, lithium metal battery, sodium metal battery, lithium-sulfur battery, magnesium-ion battery, nickel-metal hydride battery, nickel-cadmium battery, lead-acid battery, etc., and the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to this.

[0159] In some embodiments, the battery may include a housing and individual battery cells, with the individual battery cells housed within the housing. The housing may be made of metal, non-metal, or a combination of materials. Multiple individual battery cells may be arranged along at least one of the length and width directions of the housing. At least one row or column of battery cells may be provided as needed. Alternatively, one or more layers of battery cells may be provided along the height direction of the battery, as required.

[0160] The individual battery cells are electrically connected, such as in series, parallel, or a combination thereof, to achieve the desired electrical performance parameters. A combination thereof refers to multiple battery cells being connected in both series and parallel configurations. Adjacent battery cells can be electrically connected via busbars. Multiple battery cells can be arranged in rows; one or more rows of battery cells can be installed within the enclosure as needed. The enclosure can be made of metal, non-metal, or a mixture of materials.

[0161] In some embodiments, the battery may include a housing and a battery module, the housing providing a space for the battery module, which is installed inside the housing. Multiple battery cells may first be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration to form a battery module, and then the multiple battery modules may be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration to form a whole, which is then housed inside the housing.

[0162] In some embodiments, the battery cell includes an electrode assembly, a housing, and an end cap. The housing has a receiving cavity for receiving the electrode assembly and an open end communicating with the receiving cavity. The end cap closes to the open end.

[0163] The electrode assembly may include a first electrode and a second electrode with opposite polarities, and a separator disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. In some embodiments, the first electrode is a positive electrode and the second electrode is a negative electrode. In other embodiments, the first electrode is a negative electrode and the second electrode is a positive electrode. During the charging and discharging of a single battery cell, active ions (e.g., lithium ions) repeatedly insert and extract between the positive and negative electrode. The separator, disposed between the positive and negative electrode, serves to prevent short circuits between the positive and negative electrodes while allowing active ions to pass through.

[0164] In some embodiments, the positive electrode may include a positive current collector substrate and a positive active material layer disposed on at least one surface of the positive current collector substrate.

[0165] As an example, the positive electrode current collector substrate has two surfaces opposite each other in its own thickness direction, and the positive electrode active material layer is disposed on either or both of the two opposite surfaces of the positive electrode current collector substrate.

[0166] As an example, the positive electrode current collector substrate can be a metal foil or a composite current collector. For example, as a metal foil, silver-treated aluminum or stainless steel, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, carbon electrodes, carbon, nickel, or titanium, etc., can be used. The composite current collector may include a polymer material base layer and a metal layer. The composite current collector can be formed by applying a metal material (aluminum, aluminum alloy, nickel, nickel alloy, titanium, titanium alloy, silver, and silver alloy, etc.) onto a polymer material base material (such as a polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyethylene, etc. base material).

[0167] As an example, the positive electrode active material layer may include at least one of the following materials: lithium phosphate, lithium transition metal oxide, and their respective modified compounds. However, this disclosure is not limited to these materials, and other conventional materials that can be used as positive electrode active material layers in batteries may also be used. These positive electrode active material layers may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Examples of lithium phosphate include, but are not limited to, at least one of lithium iron phosphate (such as LiFePO4 (also referred to as LFP)), lithium iron phosphate and carbon composites, lithium manganese phosphate (such as LiMnPO4), lithium manganese phosphate and carbon composites, lithium iron manganese phosphate, and lithium iron manganese phosphate and carbon composites. Examples of lithium transition metal oxides include, but are not limited to, lithium cobalt oxide (such as LiCoO2), lithium nickel oxide (such as LiNiO2), lithium manganese oxide (such as LiMnO2, LiMn2O4), lithium nickel cobalt oxide, lithium manganese cobalt oxide, lithium nickel manganese oxide, and lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (such as LiNi). 1 / 3 Co 1 / 3 Mn 1 / 3 O2 (also known as NCM) 333 LiNi 0.5 Co 0.2 Mn 0.3 O2 (also known as NCM) 523 LiNi 0.5 Co 0.25 Mn 0.25 O2 (also known as NCM) 211 LiNi 0.6 Co 0.2 Mn 0.2 O2 (also known as NCM) 622 LiNi 0.8 Co 0.1 Mn 0.1 O2 (also known as NCM) 811 ), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (such as LiNi) 0.85 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 At least one of O2 and its modified compounds.

[0168] In some embodiments, the negative electrode sheet may include a negative current collector substrate.

[0169] As an example, the negative electrode current collector substrate can be a metal foil, a foamed metal, or a composite current collector. For example, as a metal foil, it can be silver-treated aluminum or stainless steel, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, carbon electrodes, carbon, nickel, or titanium, etc. Foamed metal can be foamed nickel, foamed copper, foamed aluminum, foamed alloy, or foamed carbon, etc. Composite current collectors can include a polymer material base layer and a metal layer. Composite current collectors can be formed by applying a metal material (copper, copper alloy, nickel, nickel alloy, titanium, titanium alloy, silver and silver alloy, etc.) onto a polymer material base material (such as a base material of polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyethylene, etc.).

[0170] In some embodiments, the negative electrode sheet may include a negative electrode current collector substrate and a negative electrode active material layer disposed on at least one surface of the negative electrode current collector substrate.

[0171] As an example, the negative electrode current collector substrate has two surfaces opposite each other in its own thickness direction, and the negative electrode active material layer is disposed on either or both of the two opposite surfaces of the negative electrode current collector substrate.

[0172] As an example, the negative electrode active material layer may employ a type of negative electrode active material layer known in the art for use in battery cells. As an example, the negative electrode active material layer may include at least one of the following materials: artificial graphite, natural graphite, soft carbon, hard carbon, silicon-based materials, tin-based materials, and lithium titanate, etc. Silicon-based materials may be selected from at least one of elemental silicon, silicon oxide compounds, silicon-carbon composites, silicon-nitrogen composites, and silicon alloys. Tin-based materials may be selected from at least one of elemental tin, tin oxide compounds, and tin alloys. However, this disclosure is not limited to these materials, and other conventional materials that can be used as negative electrode active material layers in batteries may also be used. These negative electrode active material layers may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0173] In some embodiments, the positive electrode current collector substrate can be made of aluminum, and the negative electrode current collector substrate can be made of copper.

[0174] In some embodiments, the separator is a separator membrane. This disclosure does not impose any particular limitation on the type of separator membrane; any known porous separator membrane with good chemical and mechanical stability can be selected.

[0175] As an example, the main material of the separator can be selected from at least one of glass fiber, non-woven fabric, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, and ceramic. The separator can be a single-layer film or a multi-layer composite film, without particular limitation. When the separator is a multi-layer composite film, the materials of each layer can be the same or different, without particular limitation. The separator can be a separate component located between the positive and negative electrode plates, or it can be located between the positive and negative electrode plates while being attached to the surface of the positive electrode plate and / or the surface of the negative electrode plate.

[0176] In some embodiments, the separator is a solid electrolyte. The solid electrolyte is disposed between the positive and negative electrode plates, serving both to transport ions and to isolate the positive and negative electrodes.

[0177] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes an electrolyte, which acts as a conductor of ions between the positive and negative electrodes. This disclosure does not impose specific limitations on the type of electrolyte, which can be selected according to requirements. The electrolyte can be liquid, gel, or solid.

[0178] As an example, liquid electrolytes include electrolyte salts and solvents.

[0179] In some embodiments, the electrolyte salt may be selected from at least one of lithium hexafluorophosphate, lithium tetrafluoroborate, lithium perchlorate, lithium hexafluoroarsenate, lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide, lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate, lithium difluorophosphate, lithium difluorooxalate borate, lithium dioxalate borate, lithium difluorodioxalate phosphate, and lithium tetrafluorooxalate phosphate.

[0180] In some embodiments, the solvent may be selected from at least one of ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, methyl ethyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, dipropyl carbonate, methyl propyl carbonate, ethyl propyl carbonate, butyl carbonate, fluoroethylene carbonate, methyl formate, methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, methyl propionate, ethyl propionate, propyl propionate, methyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, 1,4-butyrolactone, sulfolane, dimethyl sulfone, methyl ethyl sulfone, and diethyl sulfone. The solvent may also be an ether solvent. Ether solvents may include one or more of ethylene glycol dimethyl ether, ethylene glycol diethyl ether, diethylene glycol dimethyl ether, triethylene glycol dimethyl ether, tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether, 1,3-dioxolane, tetrahydrofuran, methyl tetrahydrofuran, diphenyl ether, and crown ethers.

[0181] As an example, gel electrolytes include a polymer-based backbone network combined with an ionic liquid—a lithium salt.

[0182] As an example, solid electrolytes include polymer solid electrolytes, inorganic solid electrolytes, and composite solid electrolytes.

[0183] As an example, polymer solid electrolytes can be polyether (polyoxyethylene), polysiloxane, polycarbonate, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene fluoride, polymethyl methacrylate, monoionic polymers, polyionic liquids-lithium salts, cellulose, etc.

[0184] As an example, inorganic solid electrolytes can be one or more of the following: oxide solid electrolytes (crystalline perovskite, sodium superconducting ion conductor, garnet, amorphous LiPON thin film), sulfide solid electrolytes (crystalline lithium superconducting ion conductor (lithium germanium phosphate sulfide, silver sulfide germanium ore), amorphous sulfides), halide solid electrolytes, nitride solid electrolytes, and hydride solid electrolytes.

[0185] As an example, composite solid electrolytes are formed by adding inorganic solid electrolyte fillers to polymer solid electrolytes.

[0186] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly includes a main body. The main body can be a wound structure formed by winding a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator, or a stacked structure formed by overlapping positive electrode, negative electrode, and a separator. One or more positive and negative electrode sheets can be provided respectively. As an example, multiple positive electrode sheets and multiple negative electrode sheets are alternately arranged along the electrode thickness direction.

[0187] In some embodiments, the main body may be cylindrical, flat, or polygonal. The ends of the main body may be provided with a first tab and a second tab. The first tab can be formed by cutting or trimming the current collector substrate of the first electrode, or it can be welded to the side of the current collector substrate of the first electrode. The second tab can be formed by cutting or trimming the current collector substrate of the second electrode, or it can be welded to the side of the current collector substrate of the second electrode.

[0188] In an embodiment where the first electrode is a positive electrode and the second electrode is a negative electrode, the first electrode includes a positive electrode tab serving as a first electrode tab, and the second electrode includes a negative electrode tab serving as a second electrode tab. In an embodiment where the first electrode is a negative electrode and the second electrode is a positive electrode, the first electrode includes a negative electrode tab serving as a first electrode tab, and the second electrode includes a positive electrode tab serving as a second electrode tab.

[0189] The housing is used to encapsulate electrode components and electrolytes. The housing can be made of steel, aluminum, or composite metals (such as a copper-aluminum composite housing).

[0190] As an example, a battery cell can be a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, a pouch battery cell, or a battery cell of other shapes. Prismatic battery cells include prismatic battery cells, blade-shaped battery cells, and multi-prismatic batteries, such as hexagonal prismatic batteries.

[0191] Pressure relief components may be provided on the end cap or housing. A pressure relief component is an element or part that is activated to release internal pressure or temperature when the internal pressure or temperature of a battery cell reaches a predetermined threshold. This threshold design varies depending on design requirements. The threshold may depend on one or more materials of the positive electrode, negative electrode, electrolyte, and separator in the battery cell. The pressure relief section can take the form of an explosion-proof valve, gas valve, pressure relief valve, or safety valve, and can specifically employ pressure-sensitive or temperature-sensitive elements or structures. That is, when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell reaches the predetermined threshold, the pressure relief section actuates or a weak structure within the pressure relief section is damaged, thereby forming an opening or channel for the release of internal pressure or temperature.

[0192] In the event of thermal runaway or other unforeseen circumstances in the electrode assembly, the resulting high-temperature, high-pressure gas enters the pressure relief chamber. This gas may also contain active materials. When the pressure within the pressure relief chamber exceeds the design threshold, the pressure relief section releases internal pressure, expelling emissions from the battery cells. These emissions from the battery cells include, but are not limited to: electrolyte, dissolved or fragmented positive and negative electrode plates, fragments of the separator, high-temperature, high-pressure gases generated during the reaction (such as CH4, CO, and other combustible gases), flames, etc.

[0193] In some related technologies, in order to meet the cooling requirements of batteries and energy storage converters (PCS) in energy storage systems, a heat exchange circuit for battery heat exchange and an air-cooled circuit for energy storage converter heat exchange are adopted. The heat exchange circuit and the air-cooled circuit are connected by a water valve, and the water valve is switched according to the ambient temperature to achieve different coolant circuit configurations.

[0194] Research has revealed that the relevant technology does not address the control of the pumps in the heat exchange circuit and the air-cooling circuit based on ambient temperature. As a result, under certain switching states of the water valve, the heat exchange circuit and the air-cooling circuit will be connected via the water valve to form an integrated coolant circuit driven by two pumps in series. This circuit will face the problem of matching the flow characteristics of the two pumps, which will affect the independence of the thermal management capabilities of the heat exchange circuit and the air-cooling circuit. Moreover, the dual-pump operation consumes a lot of energy.

[0195] In view of this, the present disclosure provides an energy storage system and its control method, which is beneficial to improving the ability to meet the different thermal management requirements of batteries and energy storage converters in the energy storage system.

[0196] In one aspect of this disclosure, an energy storage system is provided, comprising: a battery, an energy storage converter, and a thermal management system, wherein the thermal management system includes:

[0197] The first heat exchange path includes a first pump and a first heat exchanger for exchanging heat with the battery, and is configured to form a first heat exchange loop when the first pump is turned on.

[0198] The second heat exchange path includes a second pump and a second heat exchanger for exchanging heat with the energy storage converter, and is configured to form a second heat exchange loop when the second pump is turned on.

[0199] A flow path switching mechanism, wherein the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path are operably connected via the flow path switching mechanism; and

[0200] The processor is configured to control the opening and closing of the first pump and the second pump according to the ambient temperature, and to control the switching of the flow path switching mechanism to switch the operating mode of the thermal management system.

[0201] In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger in the first heat exchange path and the second heat exchanger in the second heat exchange path can exchange heat with the battery and the energy storage converter, respectively. The first heat exchange path and the second heat exchange path are operably connected through the path switching mechanism. The processor can issue control commands to the first pump in the first heat exchange path, the second pump in the second heat exchange path, and the path switching mechanism according to the ambient temperature, so as to realize the opening and closing control of the first pump and the second pump and the switching control of the path switching mechanism, so as to switch the working mode of the thermal management system, thereby enabling the working mode of the thermal management system to adapt to the ambient temperature and improving the system's energy efficiency and flexibility.

[0202] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of some embodiments of the energy storage system according to the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a control signal connection schematic diagram of an embodiment of the energy storage system according to the present disclosure. Figure 3 is a structural schematic diagram of the thermal management system of some embodiments of the energy storage system according to the present disclosure.

[0203] Referring to Figures 1-3, this disclosure provides an energy storage system, including a battery 10, an energy storage converter 20, and a thermal management system 30. The thermal management system 30 includes a first heat exchange path 31, a second heat exchange path 32, a path switching mechanism 34, and a processor 35. The first heat exchange path 31 includes a first pump 311 and a first heat exchanger 312 for heat exchange with the battery 10, and is configured to form a first heat exchange loop when the first pump 311 is turned on. The second heat exchange path 32 includes a second pump 321 and a second heat exchanger 322 for heat exchange with the energy storage converter 20, and is configured to form a second heat exchange loop when the second pump 321 is turned on. The first heat exchange path 31 and the second heat exchange path 32 are operably connected via the path switching mechanism 34. The processor 35 is configured to control the opening and closing of the first pump 311 and the second pump 321 according to the ambient temperature, and to control the switching of the flow path switching mechanism 34 to switch the operating mode of the thermal management system 30.

[0204] Battery 10 is used to store and release energy, and energy storage converter 20 is used to connect the power supply source and battery 10. The power supply source may include the power grid or power generation equipment, etc. Energy storage converter 20 has a DC side and an AC side. The DC side is used to be electrically connected to battery 10, and the AC side is used to be connected to the power supply source. When battery 10 is charging, energy storage converter 20 acts as a rectifier to convert electrical energy from AC power from the power grid on the AC side to DC power and store it in battery 10. When battery 10 is discharging, energy storage converter 20 acts as an inverter to convert the electrical energy stored in battery 10 from DC power on the DC side to AC power and supply it to the power grid.

[0205] The thermal management system 30 can be used to perform thermal management on components in an energy storage system, including the battery 10 and the energy storage converter 20, such as cooling or heating the battery 10 and cooling the energy storage converter 20. The thermal management system 30 can be connected to the battery 10 and the energy storage converter 20 to achieve thermal management of the battery 10 and the energy storage converter 20.

[0206] The heat exchange medium running in the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32 can be a liquid, such as water, water-containing coolant or waterless coolant, but is not limited to liquids, and can also be a gas, solid-liquid mixture or gas-liquid mixture, etc.

[0207] A first pump 311 and a first heat exchanger 312 are disposed in a first heat exchange flow path 31. When started, the first pump 311 drives the heat exchange medium to flow within the first heat exchange flow path 31, and the heat exchange medium exchanges heat with the battery 10 in the first heat exchanger 312. The first heat exchanger 312 can transfer heat to the battery 10 through, but not limited to, thermal conduction. For example, the first heat exchanger 312 may include a cooling plate in contact with the battery 10. The cooling plate can be independent of the battery 10 or can be part of the battery 10, for example, disposed at the bottom of the battery housing or between individual battery cells in a battery module.

[0208] A second pump 321 and a second heat exchanger 322 are disposed in a second heat exchange flow path 32. When started, the second pump 321 drives the heat exchange medium to flow within the second heat exchange flow path 32. The heat exchange medium exchanges heat with the energy storage converter 20 in the second heat exchanger 322. The second heat exchanger 322 can transfer heat to the energy storage converter 20 via, but not limited to, heat conduction. For example, the second heat exchanger 322 may include a cooling plate in contact with the energy storage converter 20. The cooling plate may be independent of the energy storage converter 20 or may be part of the energy storage converter 20.

[0209] The flow path switching mechanism 34 enables operable connection between the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32. Through the switching control of the flow path switching mechanism 34, different heat exchange loop configurations in the thermal management system 30 can be achieved. The flow path switching mechanism 34 can be switched to different switching states to match the working mode of the thermal management system.

[0210] The processor 35 can communicate with the first pump 311, the second pump 321, and the flow path switching mechanism 34 via wired or wireless means to receive data and issue instructions. The processor 35 may include one or more processing units, which can be general-purpose processors, such as CPUs, digital signal processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components, capable of implementing or executing the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, or any conventional processor.

[0211] Ambient temperature refers to the temperature of the environment in which the thermal management system 30 is located. The processor 35 can measure the ambient temperature using temperature detection instruments such as thermometers and thermocouples, or it can obtain the temperature data through other means, such as receiving ambient temperature data transmitted from other systems. Research indicates that the ambient temperature can affect the thermal management requirements of both the battery 10 and the energy storage converter 20.

[0212] The processor 35 can control the opening and closing of the first pump 311 and the second pump 321, and control the switching of the flow path switching mechanism 34, based on the acquired ambient temperature. This control process may include control commands issued by the processor 35 to the first pump 311, the second pump 321, or the flow path switching mechanism 34 to switch the current state, or it may include control commands issued by the processor 35 to the first pump 311, the second pump 321, or the flow path switching mechanism 34 to maintain the current state.

[0213] In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 312 in the first heat exchange path 31 and the second heat exchanger 322 in the second heat exchange path 32 can exchange heat with the battery and the energy storage converter, respectively. The first heat exchange path 31 and the second heat exchange path 32 are operably connected through the path switching mechanism 34. The processor 35 can issue control commands to the first pump 311 in the first heat exchange path 31, the second pump 321 in the second heat exchange path 32, and the path switching mechanism 34 according to the ambient temperature, so as to realize the opening and closing control of the first pump 311 and the second pump 321 and the switching control of the path switching mechanism 34, so as to switch the working mode of the thermal management system 30, thereby enabling the working mode of the thermal management system 30 to adapt to the ambient temperature and improving the system energy efficiency and flexibility.

[0214] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the medium circulation in the thermal management system in the first operating mode of the embodiment shown in Figure 3. In Figure 4, solid arrows indicate the second heat exchange loop operating independently in the first operating mode of the thermal management system, hollow arrows indicate the first heat exchange loop operating independently in the first operating mode of the thermal management system, and linear arrows indicate the operating compression refrigeration cycle loop. Figure 4 also shows, in bold, that the first pump 311, the second pump 321, and the compressor 361 are all in the on state.

[0215] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the medium circulation in the second operating mode of the thermal management system in the embodiment shown in Figure 3. In Figure 5, hollow arrows indicate the heat exchange combination circuit operating in the second operating mode of the thermal management system, and straight arrows indicate the operating compression and refrigeration cycle circuit. Figure 5 uses bold to indicate that the first pump 311 and compressor 361 are both in the on state, and dashed lines indicate that the second pump 321 is in the off state.

[0216] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of another media circulation in the second operating mode of the thermal management system shown in Figure 3. In Figure 6, hollow arrows indicate the heat exchange combination circuit of the thermal management system operating in the second operating mode. Figure 6 shows the first pump 311 in the on state in bold, and the second pump 321 and compressor 361 in the off state in dashed lines. At this time, the compression refrigeration cycle circuit is in a non-operating state.

[0217] Referring to Figures 4-6, in some embodiments, the processor 35 is configured to: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to a first operating mode, cause the first heat exchange loop and the second heat exchange loop to operate independently; and in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to a second operating mode, cause at least a portion of the flow paths of the first heat exchange loop and the second heat exchange flow path 32 to form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop.

[0218] The thermal management system may have multiple operating modes, including but not limited to a first operating mode and a second operating mode. The form of the heat exchange medium loop in the first operating mode shown in Figure 4 is different from the form of the heat exchange medium loop in the second operating mode shown in Figure 5 or Figure 6.

[0219] In this embodiment, when the thermal management system 30 switches to the first working mode, the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32 each form the first heat exchange loop and the second heat exchange loop, which operate independently. This allows for independent configuration and control according to the thermal management needs of the battery 10 and the energy storage converter 20, thus meeting more flexible thermal management requirements.

[0220] When the thermal management system 30 switches to the second operating mode, at least a portion of the flow paths of the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32 form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop. In this way, the thermal management requirements of the battery 10 and the energy storage converter 20 are met by a single pump drive, so as to avoid the first pump 311 and the second pump 321 affecting the independence of the thermal management capabilities achieved by the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32 respectively due to the need for flow characteristic matching. In addition, the single pump drive can also reduce system energy consumption and simplify control complexity.

[0221] Referring to Figures 3-6, in some embodiments, the flow path switching mechanism 34 includes at least two connected flow paths 33 and a control valve 341. Each of the at least two connected flow paths 33 is connected at both ends to the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32, respectively. The control valve 341 is disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths 33 and is configured to switch the on / off state of the connected flow path 33 with the control valve 341. Accordingly, the processor 35 is configured to respond to an ambient temperature greater than or equal to a first ambient temperature threshold T. th1 This causes both the first pump 311 and the second pump 321 to start, and switches the control valve 341 to the off state, thereby switching the thermal management system 30 to the first operating mode; in response to the ambient temperature being less than or equal to the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 This causes the first pump 311 to turn on, the second pump 321 to turn off, and the control valve 341 to switch to the open state, thereby switching the thermal management system 30 to the second operating mode, wherein the first ambient temperature threshold T th1 Greater than the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 .

[0222] In the thermal management system 30, multiple connecting flow paths 33 can be connected between the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32. This allows the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32 to form a loop through at least two connecting flow paths 33. A control valve 341 is disposed in at least one of the at least two connecting flow paths 33. That is, the control valve 341 can be disposed in one of the at least two connecting flow paths 33, or in some or all of the at least two connecting flow paths 33.

[0223] The control valve 341 can be located at one or both of the connection ends of the connecting flow path 33 with the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32, or it can be located within the connecting flow path 33. The structure of the control valve 341 is not limited, as long as it can switch the flow path 33 on and off; for example, it can be a solenoid valve, a pneumatic valve, or a hydraulic valve. In some embodiments, the control valve 341 can achieve flow control in addition to on / off control.

[0224] First ambient temperature threshold T th1 Second ambient temperature threshold T th2 The temperature of the battery 10 can be maintained at the operating temperature T by the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger 312. batt This is determined by setting the threshold temperature based on the required temperature of the heat exchange medium for the battery. Thus, the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first ambient temperature threshold T. th1 This indicates that the current ambient temperature is relatively high, which to some extent increases the cooling requirements of battery 10 and energy storage converter 20. At this time, both the first pump 311 and the second pump 321 are turned on, and the control valve 341 is switched to the off state, thereby switching the thermal management system 30 to its first operating mode, so that the first heat exchange circuit and the second heat exchange circuit can operate independently to meet the cooling requirements of battery 10 and energy storage converter 20 respectively.

[0225] Ambient temperature less than or equal to the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 This indicates that the current ambient temperature is relatively low, which reduces the cooling requirements of battery 10 and energy storage converter 20 to some extent. Even when the ambient temperature is too low, the heating requirements of battery 10 still need to be considered. At this time, the first pump 311 is turned on, the second pump 321 is turned off, and the control valve 341 is switched to the open state, thereby switching the thermal management system 30 to its second operating mode to form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop including the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second partial heat exchange flow path 324. This heat exchange combination loop, driven by the first pump 311, can meet the relatively low cooling requirements of battery 10 and energy storage converter 20. Moreover, the heat exchange medium after heat exchange with battery 10 can continue to cool the higher-temperature energy storage converter 20, which helps reduce energy consumption.

[0226] In this embodiment, the working mode of the thermal management system 30 is switched according to the comparison result of the ambient temperature relative to the threshold, which can effectively meet the different thermal management needs under different ambient temperatures and save energy.

[0227] In some embodiments, the first ambient temperature threshold T th1 The second ambient temperature threshold Tth2 satisfy:

[0228] T th1 =T batt -A,T th2 =T batt -B,T th1 >T th2 ;

[0229] Among them, T batt The heat exchange medium temperature within the first heat exchanger 312 is the temperature that allows the battery 10 to maintain its operating temperature within the working range. A and B are preset constant values ​​that satisfy 3℃ ≤ A < 5℃. <B≤5℃。

[0230] First ambient temperature threshold T th1 Second ambient temperature threshold T th2 All can be accessed via T batt Determined by subtracting a preset constant value.

[0231] For example, the temperature T batt The optimal temperature range is 16–20°C, with 18°C ​​being the preferred value. Considering that lower ambient temperatures are beneficial for battery cooling, a preset constant of 3–5°C can be subtracted from this range, for example, the first ambient temperature threshold T. th1 Equals 18℃ - 3℃ = 15℃, second ambient temperature threshold T th2 The value is 18℃ - 3.5℃ = 14.5℃. Therefore, when the ambient temperature is 16℃, which is greater than 15℃, the thermal management system 30 will switch to the first working mode; when the ambient temperature is 14℃, which is less than 14.5℃, the thermal management system 30 will switch to the second working mode.

[0232] In this embodiment, the first ambient temperature threshold T is determined by preset constant values ​​A and B, respectively. th1 Second ambient temperature threshold T th2 It can determine the current working mode based on an appropriate ambient temperature threshold, which helps to meet thermal management requirements and save energy.

[0233] Referring to Figures 3-6, in some embodiments, the thermal management system 30 further includes a compression refrigeration cycle loop 36, which includes a compressor 361 and an evaporator 364. A portion of the first heat exchange flow path 31 passes through the evaporator 364 and exchanges heat with the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 through the evaporator 364. The processor 35 is configured to: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the first operating mode, cause the compressor 361 to operate at a first operating frequency; and in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the second operating mode, cause the compressor 361 to shut down or operate at a second operating frequency, wherein the second operating frequency is less than the first operating frequency.

[0234] The compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 circulates the refrigerant fluid, achieving heat transfer through the condensation and evaporation of the refrigerant. The refrigerant may include, but is not limited to, water, ammonia, carbon dioxide, and halogenated hydrocarbon refrigerants. The refrigerant in the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 operates independently of the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchange path 31, achieving heat transfer through heat exchange. The processor 35 can be signal-connected to the compressor 361 in the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 to control the compressor 361's on / off state, operating frequency, etc.

[0235] Compressor 361 compresses the intake low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. In Figure 3, the compression refrigeration cycle 36 may further include a condenser 362, a throttling device 363, and a gas-liquid separator 365. The condenser 362 cools and at least partially converts the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant output from compressor 361 into a liquid state by releasing heat. The throttling device 363 may include a capillary tube, a thermostatic expansion valve, or an electronic expansion valve, which cools and depressurizes the refrigerant output from condenser 362 by throttling. The evaporator 364 heats the refrigerant passing through throttling device 363 by absorbing heat, at least partially converting it into a gaseous state. The gas-liquid separator 365 separates the refrigerant output from evaporator 364 into a gaseous state and inputs the separated low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant into compressor 361.

[0236] Additionally, in Figure 3, the thermal management system 30 may also include a fan 327, which can provide air cooling for the condenser 362 to improve its efficiency. The fan 327 may include axial flow, centrifugal, mixed flow, or other types of fans.

[0237] A portion of the first heat exchange flow path 31 passes through the evaporator 364, allowing it to exchange heat with the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 364. This enables the first heat exchange flow path 31 to receive cooling energy from the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36, thereby cooling the flowing heat exchange medium. In Figure 3, dashed lines drawn within the evaporator 364 indicate the portion of the first heat exchange flow path 31 passing through the evaporator 364, as well as the portion of the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 passing through the evaporator 364. The evaporator 364 can be a plate heat exchanger evaporator or other types of evaporators, such as a shell-and-tube evaporator.

[0238] The heat exchange between the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 and the first heat exchange flow path 31 provides cooling to the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchange flow path 31, which helps to improve the thermal management efficiency achieved by the first heat exchange flow path 31 and increases the configuration flexibility for different thermal management needs. Furthermore, the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 can achieve high cooling efficiency, and by exchanging heat with the first heat exchange flow path 31, it can effectively reduce the temperature of the heat exchange medium flowing in the first heat exchange flow path 31, thereby improving the cooling capacity of the loop containing the first heat exchange flow path 31.

[0239] As mentioned earlier, ambient temperature affects the thermal management requirements of both battery 10 and energy storage converter 20. To meet stronger cooling demands, when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to a first operating mode, in which the compressor 361 operates at a higher first operating frequency. This allows the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 to transfer more cooling capacity to the first heat exchange path 31, improving cooling efficiency. When the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the second ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to a second operating mode, in which the compressor 361 is either turned off or operates at a lower second operating frequency. Figure 5 shows the state where the compressor 361 operates at a lower second operating frequency, and Figure 6 shows the state where the compressor 361 is turned off. This reduces or eliminates the energy consumption of the compressor 361.

[0240] In this embodiment, controlling the start-up and shutdown or operating frequency of the compressor according to the working mode of the thermal management system can meet the thermal management requirements under different ambient temperatures and effectively reduce energy consumption.

[0241] Referring to Figures 3-6, in some embodiments, the flow path switching mechanism 34 includes at least two connected flow paths 33, each connected to the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32 at its two ends, respectively. The thermal management system 30 further includes a heating mechanism 37, which is disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths 33 and configured to heat the heat exchange medium flowing through the connected flow path 33 where the heating mechanism 37 is located when the heating function is activated. The processor 35 is configured to: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the first operating mode, cause the heating mechanism 37 to turn off the heating function; and in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the second operating mode, cause the heating mechanism 37 to turn on or off the heating function.

[0242] The heating mechanism 37 heats the heat exchange medium flowing through its connecting flow path 33 to increase its temperature, enabling it to be used for heating and maintaining the temperature of the battery 10, thus meeting the heating requirements of the battery 10. When the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to a first operating mode, at which point the heating mechanism 37 shuts off its heating function. This saves energy consumption and avoids the impact of heating on the cooling efficiency of the heat exchange circuit. When the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the second ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to a second operating mode, at which point the heating mechanism 37 is turned on or off according to the heating or cooling requirements of the battery 10. The processor 35 can be signal-connected to the heating mechanism 37 to control the on / off state of its heating function.

[0243] In Figures 4 and 5, the at least two connecting flow paths 33 include: a first connecting flow path 331 and a second connecting flow path 332. One end of the first connecting flow path 331 is connected to a first position p1 of the first heat exchange flow path 31, and the other end is connected to a second position p2 of the second heat exchange flow path 32. One end of the second connecting flow path 332 is connected to a third position p3 of the first heat exchange flow path 31, and the other end is connected to a fourth position p4 of the second heat exchange flow path 32. The heating mechanism 37 is disposed in the second connecting flow path 332 and is configured to heat the heat exchange medium flowing through the second connecting flow path 332 where the heating mechanism 37 is located when the heating function is activated. In some embodiments, the heating mechanism 37 may be disposed in the first connecting flow path 331 and is configured to heat the heat exchange medium flowing through the first connecting flow path 331 where the heating mechanism 37 is located when the heating function is activated.

[0244] When the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to the first operating mode. Both the battery 10 and the energy storage converter 20 require cooling. At this time, the heating mechanism 37 does not need to activate its heating function, and no heat exchange medium flows through the second connecting flow path 332 where the heating mechanism 37 is located, or only a small amount of heat exchange medium flows through it before stable circulation. Considering that the flow rate achievable by the heating mechanism 37 may differ from that of the first or second heat exchange circuit, placing the heating mechanism 37 in the first or second heat exchange flow path 31 eliminates the risk of flow resistance in either the independently operating first or second heat exchange circuit, and also eliminates the need to limit the thermal management capability of the thermal management system to match the allowable flow rate of the heating mechanism 37. Furthermore, it eliminates the risk of surface condensation caused by placing the heating mechanism 37 in the first heat exchange flow path 31, where the heat exchange medium temperature is relatively low, at higher ambient temperatures.

[0245] When the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the second ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to the second operating mode, and the battery 10 may need to be cooled or heated. During the establishment of the heat exchange combination loop, the heat exchange medium is split and merged at the first position p1 and the third position p3. At this time, a portion of the heat exchange medium flows through the heating mechanism 37, and heating or de-heating of the heat exchange medium is achieved according to the activation and deactivation of the heating function of the heating mechanism 37. Thus, even if the flow rate achievable by the heating mechanism 37 is inconsistent with that of the first heat exchange loop, the risk of flow resistance forming in the heating mechanism 37 can be reduced through flow distribution during splitting.

[0246] In Figure 5, when the battery 10 needs to be heated, the heating mechanism 37 is positioned in the second connecting flow path 332, and the heating function of the heating mechanism 37 is activated. The heat exchange medium, passing through the second part of the heat exchange flow path 324 in the second heat exchange flow path 32, enters the second connecting flow path 332 from the fourth position p4, and its temperature increases under the heating action of the heating mechanism 37. The heated heat exchange medium enters the first heat exchange flow path 31 and exchanges heat with the battery 10 in the first heat exchanger 312, thereby achieving the heating of the battery 10.

[0247] In this embodiment, the opening and closing of the heating mechanism 37 is controlled according to the working mode of the thermal management system, which can meet the thermal management requirements under different ambient temperatures and effectively save energy consumption.

[0248] In Figure 3, the heating mechanism 37 may include a heater 371 and a flow control valve 372 connected in parallel with the heater 371. The heater 371 is configured to turn the heating function on or off according to instructions from the processor 35. The flow control valve 372 is configured to control the flow rate of the heat exchange medium passing through the flow control valve 372 according to instructions from the processor 35.

[0249] Heater 371 may be an electric heater, a steam heater, or any other available heater. For example, heater 371 may be a safe and efficient positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater.

[0250] Considering that there may be a difference between the flow rate of the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange combination loop and the allowable flow rate of the heater 371, which may create flow resistance at the location of the heater 371, the flow distribution can be controlled by using a flow control valve 372 connected in parallel with the heater 371. This can reduce the risk of flow resistance forming in the heater 371, improve the circulation efficiency of the heat exchange medium, and improve the energy efficiency of thermal management.

[0251] Referring to Figures 2 and 4, in some embodiments, the processor 35 is configured to: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the first operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger 312 in the first heat exchange loop... out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The temperature difference ΔT1 is used to control the output flow of the first pump 311.

[0252] In Figure 4, the thermal management system 30 may further include a first temperature sensor 389 and a second temperature sensor 386. The first temperature sensor 389 is disposed on the outlet side of the first heat exchanger 312 and is configured to sense the outlet temperature T. out1 A second temperature sensor 386 is disposed on the inlet side of the first heat exchanger 312 and is configured to sense the inlet temperature T. in1 The processor can be connected to the first temperature sensor 389 and the second temperature sensor 386 to calculate the outlet temperature T. out1 and the inlet temperature T in1 The difference is taken as the temperature difference ΔT1.

[0253] In this embodiment, considering that the temperature difference ΔT1 of the first heat exchanger 312 represents to some extent the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the battery 10, the output flow rate of the first pump 311 can be controlled according to the temperature difference ΔT1 in the first working mode of the thermal management system 30, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the entire system and save energy.

[0254] In some embodiments, the processor 35 is configured to: respond to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than a first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This increases the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to improve its output flow rate; in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2This reduces the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to decrease its output flow rate; and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT. th2 And less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This keeps the rotational speed of the first pump 311 constant; wherein, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 .

[0255] If the temperature difference ΔT1 is greater than the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs a significant amount of heat from battery 10, resulting in a higher cooling demand for battery 10. Therefore, the processor can increase the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to increase its output flow rate, thereby increasing the amount of heat exchange medium exchanging heat with battery 10 and improving heat exchange efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT1 is less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs relatively little heat from battery 10, and battery 10 has a high cooling requirement. Therefore, the processor can reduce the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to decrease its output flow rate. This reduces the energy consumption of the first pump 311 while meeting the cooling requirements of the battery, thus improving energy efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT1 is within the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 and the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Between these points, the heat exchange of the first heat exchanger 312 is relatively stable, and there is no need to adjust the speed of the first pump 311.

[0256] In this embodiment, the temperature difference ΔT1 is based on the first temperature difference threshold ΔT. th1 Second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 By selectively controlling the speed of the first pump 311 according to the size relationship, it is beneficial to improve the heat exchange efficiency and reduce the energy consumption of the first pump 311, thereby improving the energy-saving effect.

[0257] In some embodiments, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Satisfy: 3.5℃≤ΔT th1 ≤4.5℃; the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 Satisfy: 1℃≤ΔT th2 ≤2.5℃.

[0258] First temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 The acceptable value is greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 The possible values ​​are such that, when the temperature difference ΔT1 is compared to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT... th1At a higher temperature, by controlling the rotational speed of the first pump 311, the amount of heat exchange medium exchanging heat with the battery 10 can be effectively increased, thereby reducing the temperature difference ΔT1, and compared with the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 When the temperature is lower, by controlling the rotational speed of the first pump 311, the amount of heat exchange medium that exchanges heat with the battery 10 can be reduced, thereby making the temperature difference ΔT1 tend to a more suitable range.

[0259] In this embodiment, by setting the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Satisfy: 3.5℃≤ΔT th1 ≤4.5℃, the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 Satisfy: 1℃≤ΔT th2 With a temperature of ≤2.5℃, more effective control of the first pump 311 can be achieved, which can meet the requirements of improving heat exchange efficiency, reducing the energy consumption of the first pump 311, and improving energy-saving effect.

[0260] Referring to Figures 2 and 4, in some embodiments, the second heat exchange path 32 further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger 325 connected in series with the second heat exchanger 322, and the processor 35 is configured to: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the first operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path segment of the second heat exchange loop containing the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325... out2 With inlet temperature T in2 The temperature difference ΔT2 and the inlet pressure P of the second pump 321 in2 The inlet pressure P of the first pump 311 in1 The pressure difference ΔP controls the output flow of the second pump 321.

[0261] The natural cooling heat exchanger 325 utilizes the cooling capacity of the natural environment to exchange heat with the heat exchange medium passing through it, effectively saving energy consumption. If needed, a fan 327 can be installed near the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 to guide airflow from the environment to exchange heat with the heat exchanger 325, improving heat exchange efficiency. The fan 327 can also provide air cooling for the condenser 362, further enhancing its efficiency.

[0262] The natural cooling heat exchanger 325 may include a microchannel heat exchanger 3251, which typically includes a flat tube with multiple microchannels and a manifold communicating with the flat tube. The equivalent diameter of the microchannels in the flat tube can be 10-1000 μm. The manifold may have baffles inside to divide the flow channels of the heat exchanger into multiple channels.

[0263] The series flow path of the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 refers to the heat exchange flow path of the second heat exchange flow path 32 in which the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 are located. In this case, along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium, the second heat exchanger 322 can be located upstream of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 or downstream of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325.

[0264] In Figure 4, the thermal management system 30 further includes: a third temperature sensor 383, a fourth temperature sensor 382, ​​a first pressure sensor 385, and a second pressure sensor 384. The third temperature sensor 383 is disposed on the outlet side of the series flow path and is configured to sense the outlet temperature T of the series flow path. out2 A fourth temperature sensor 382 is disposed on the inlet side of the series flow path and is configured to sense the inlet temperature T of the series flow path. in2 The processor 35 can be connected to the third temperature sensor 383 and the fourth temperature sensor 382, ​​and can calculate the outlet temperature T of the series flow path. out2 and the inlet temperature T of the series flow section in2 The difference is taken as the temperature difference ΔT2.

[0265] A first pressure sensor 385 is disposed on the inlet side of the first pump 311 and is configured to sense the inlet pressure P. in1 A second pressure sensor 384 is disposed on the inlet side of the second pump 321 and is configured to sense the inlet pressure P. in2 The processor 35 can be connected to the first pressure sensor 385 and the second pressure sensor 384, and calculate the inlet pressure P of the second pump 321. in2 and the inlet pressure P of the first pump 311 in1 The difference is taken as the pressure difference ΔP.

[0266] In this embodiment, a natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is installed in the second heat exchange flow path 324. This allows the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 to participate in the natural heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the external environment in both the first and second operating modes of the thermal management system 30, which helps to further reduce system energy consumption. Furthermore, considering that the temperature difference ΔT2 of the second heat exchanger 322 represents, to some extent, the amount of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the energy storage converter 20, and that the pressure difference between the second and first heat exchange loops cannot be too high (as this could affect the balance between the two loops and cause flow resistance due to a mismatch between the flow rate of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 and the loop flow), the output flow rate of the second pump 321 needs to be controlled based on the temperature difference ΔT2 and the pressure difference ΔP in the first operating mode of the thermal management system 30.

[0267] In some embodiments, the processor 35 is configured to: respond to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than a third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 And the pressure difference ΔP is less than or equal to the pressure threshold ΔP th This increases the rotational speed of the second pump 321 to improve its output flow rate; in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being less than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 This reduces the rotational speed of the second pump 321 to decrease its output flow rate; and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than or equal to the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT. th4 And less than or equal to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 This keeps the rotational speed of the second pump 321 constant; wherein, the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Greater than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 .

[0268] If the temperature difference ΔT2 is greater than the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 And the pressure difference ΔP is less than or equal to the pressure threshold ΔP th This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs a significant amount of heat from the energy storage converter 20, resulting in a high cooling demand for the energy storage converter 20. Furthermore, there is no excessive pressure difference between the two heat exchange loops, allowing for further increases in the rotational speed of the second pump 321. Therefore, the processor can increase the rotational speed of the second pump 321 to improve its output flow rate, thereby increasing the amount of heat exchange medium exchanged with the energy storage converter 20 and improving heat exchange efficiency. If the pressure difference ΔP is greater than the pressure threshold ΔP... th Since there is no room to increase the speed of the second pump 321, other measures need to be taken to improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0269] If the temperature difference ΔT2 is less than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs relatively little heat from the energy storage converter 20, resulting in a high cooling demand for the energy storage converter 20. Therefore, the processor can reduce the rotational speed of the second pump 321 to decrease its output flow rate. This satisfies the cooling requirements of the energy storage converter 20 while reducing the energy consumption of the second pump 321, thus improving energy efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT2 is within the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT... th4 and the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Between these points, the heat exchange of the second heat exchanger 322 is relatively stable, and there is no need to adjust the speed of the second pump 321.

[0270] In this embodiment, based on the temperature difference ΔT2 relative to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 and the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 Taking into account the relationship between the magnitudes of the two heat exchange circuits and the pressure difference ΔP between them, selectively controlling the speed of the second pump 321 is beneficial to improving heat exchange efficiency and reducing the energy consumption of the second pump 321, thereby improving energy-saving effect.

[0271] In some embodiments, the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Satisfy: 6℃≤ΔT th3 ≤7℃; the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 Satisfy: 4℃≤ΔT th4 ≤5℃; the pressure threshold ΔP th Satisfies: 25 kPa ≤ ΔP th ≤45KPa.

[0272] Third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 The acceptable value is greater than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT. th4 The possible values ​​are such that the temperature difference ΔT2 is compared to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT. th3 Larger, and the pressure difference is less than or equal to the pressure threshold ΔP th At the same time, by controlling the speed of the second pump 321, the amount of heat exchange medium exchanging heat with the energy storage converter 20 can be effectively increased, thereby reducing the temperature difference ΔT2, and compared with the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT... th4 When the temperature is lower, by controlling the speed of the second pump 321, the amount of heat exchange medium that exchanges heat with the energy storage converter 20 can be reduced, thereby making the temperature difference ΔT2 tend to a more suitable range.

[0273] In this embodiment, by setting the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Satisfy: 6℃≤ΔT th3 ≤7℃, the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 Satisfy: 4℃≤ΔT th4≤5℃, the pressure threshold ΔP th Satisfies: 25 kPa ≤ ΔP th With a pressure of ≤45KPa, more effective control of the second pump 321 can be achieved, which can meet the requirements of improving heat exchange efficiency, reducing the energy consumption of the second pump 321, and improving energy-saving effect.

[0274] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the second heat exchange flow path 32 further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger 325 connected in series with the second heat exchanger 322. The flow path switching mechanism 34 includes at least two connecting flow paths 33 and a control valve 341. Each of the at least two connecting flow paths 33 has its two ends connected to the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32, respectively. The control valve 341 is disposed in at least one of the at least two connecting flow paths 33 and is configured to switch the on / off state of the connecting flow path 33 with the control valve 341. The processor 35 is configured to, in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the second operating mode, adjust the flow path based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path segment of the second heat exchange flow path 32 containing the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325. out2 The flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination circuit is controlled.

[0275] The natural cooling heat exchanger 325 can utilize the cooling energy of the natural environment to exchange heat with the heat exchange medium passing through it, effectively saving energy consumption. The natural cooling heat exchanger 325 may include a microchannel heat exchanger 3251, which typically comprises a flat tube with multiple internal microchannels and a manifold connected to the flat tube. The equivalent diameter of the microchannels in the flat tube can be 10-1000 μm. The manifold may contain baffles to divide the heat exchanger's channels into multiple flow paths.

[0276] The series flow path segment of the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 refers to the heat exchange flow path segment in the second heat exchange flow path 32 where the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 are located. Along the flow direction of the heat exchange medium, the second heat exchanger 322 can be located upstream or downstream of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325. In Figures 5 and 6, the thermal management system 30 also includes a third temperature sensor 383. The third temperature sensor 383 is disposed on the outlet side of the series flow path segment and is configured to sense the outlet temperature T of the series flow path segment. out2 .

[0277] In this embodiment, a natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is installed in the second heat exchange flow path 324. This allows the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 to participate in the natural heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the external environment in both the first and second operating modes of the thermal management system 30, which helps to further reduce system energy consumption. Furthermore, in the second operating mode of the thermal management system, the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 324 can form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop. The outlet temperature T of the series flow path section... out2 The level of the flow rate can indicate the heat exchange margin of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 to a certain extent, thereby allowing for targeted control of the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination loop. This ensures that the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is fully utilized to meet the thermal management requirements of the thermal management system and helps reduce system energy consumption.

[0278] In some embodiments, the processor 35 is configured to: respond to the outlet temperature T out2 Less than the first target temperature threshold T th3 Increase the opening of the control valve 341 to increase the flow rate into the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination circuit; in response to the outlet temperature T out2 Greater than the second target temperature threshold T th4 Adjusting the opening of the control valve 341 to reduce the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination circuit; and / or in response to the outlet temperature T out2 Less than or equal to the first target temperature threshold T th3 And greater than or equal to the second target temperature threshold T th4 This ensures that the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination loop remains constant; wherein, the second target temperature threshold T th4 Greater than the first target temperature threshold T th3 .

[0279] In the second operating mode of the thermal management system, the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second partial heat exchange flow path 324 can form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop. At this time, the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section... out2If the value is low, it indicates that the heat exchange margin of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is large. The flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 and exchanging heat with the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 can be increased by increasing the opening of the control valve 341. This effectively reduces the demand on other cooling sources, such as reducing the demand on the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36. This can reduce the load on the compressor 361, allowing it to shut down, operate at a lower frequency, or operate for a shorter time. This can further improve the reliability of the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 and help improve the overall lifespan of the energy storage system.

[0280] If the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section out2 A higher temperature indicates insufficient heat exchange margin in the natural cooling heat exchanger 325. In this case, the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 and exchanging heat with the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 can be reduced by decreasing the opening of the control valve 341. This allows more flow to receive additional cooling capacity in the first heat exchange path 31, such as increasing the cooling capacity received from the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36, so that the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section can be kept higher. out2 Adjust to a suitable temperature range. If the outlet temperature T of the series flow section... out2 First target temperature threshold T th3 Second target temperature threshold T th4 If the flow rate is between 325 and 341, it indicates that the heat exchange margin of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is suitable. At this time, it is sufficient to keep the flow rate entering the second heat exchange flow path 32 in the heat exchange combination circuit constant, without adjusting the opening of the control valve 341.

[0281] In this embodiment, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section out2 Relative to the first target temperature threshold T th3 Second target temperature threshold T th4 The size relationship allows for selective adjustment of the opening degree of control valve 341, which helps meet thermal management requirements, reduce energy consumption, and improve energy-saving effects.

[0282] In some embodiments, the first target temperature threshold T th3 Satisfy: 15℃≤T th3 ≤17℃; the second target temperature threshold T th4 Satisfy: 19℃≤T th4 ≤21℃.

[0283] First target temperature threshold T th3 The acceptable value is less than the second target temperature threshold T. th4 The acceptable value is such that the outlet temperature T in the series flow section is... out2 Compared to the second target temperature threshold T th4At higher temperatures, the outlet temperature T of the series flow path can be controlled by adjusting the opening of control valve 341. out2 Adjust to a suitable temperature range to meet the cooling requirements of the energy storage converter 20; and at the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section. out2 Compared to the first target temperature threshold T th3 When the temperature is lower, controlling the opening of the control valve 341 can effectively reduce the demand on other cooling sources, which helps to reduce system power consumption and make it more energy-efficient.

[0284] In this embodiment, by setting the first target temperature threshold T th3 Satisfy: 15℃≤T th3 ≤17℃, the second target temperature threshold T th4 Satisfy: 19℃≤T th4 At ≤21℃, more effective control of control valve 341 can be achieved, thereby meeting the thermal management requirements of the thermal management system and helping to reduce system energy consumption and improve energy-saving effect.

[0285] In some embodiments, the processor 35 is configured to: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the second operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger 312 in the first heat exchange loop. out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The temperature difference ΔT1 is used to control the output flow of the first pump 311.

[0286] In Figure 4, the thermal management system 30 may further include a first temperature sensor 389 and a second temperature sensor 386. The first temperature sensor 389 is disposed on the outlet side of the first heat exchanger 312 and is configured to sense the outlet temperature T. out1 A second temperature sensor 386 is disposed on the inlet side of the first heat exchanger 312 and is configured to sense the inlet temperature T. in1 The processor is capable of calculating the outlet temperature T. out1 and the inlet temperature T in1 The difference is taken as the temperature difference ΔT1.

[0287] In this embodiment, considering that the temperature difference ΔT1 of the first heat exchanger 312 represents to some extent the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the battery 10, the output flow rate of the first pump 311 can be controlled according to the temperature difference ΔT1 in the second working mode of the thermal management system 30, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the entire system and save energy.

[0288] In some embodiments, the processor 35 is configured to: respond to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than a first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1This increases the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to improve its output flow rate; in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 This reduces the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to decrease its output flow rate; and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT. th2 And less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This keeps the rotational speed of the first pump 311 constant; wherein, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 .

[0289] If the temperature difference ΔT1 is greater than the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs a significant amount of heat from battery 10, resulting in a higher cooling demand for battery 10. Therefore, the processor can increase the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to increase its output flow rate, thereby increasing the amount of heat exchange medium exchanging heat with battery 10 and improving heat exchange efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT1 is less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs relatively little heat from battery 10, and battery 10 has a high cooling requirement. Therefore, the processor can reduce the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to decrease its output flow rate. This reduces the energy consumption of the first pump 311 while meeting the cooling requirements of the battery, thus improving energy efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT1 is within the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 and the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Between these points, the heat exchange of the first heat exchanger 312 is relatively stable, and there is no need to adjust the speed of the first pump 311.

[0290] In this embodiment, when the thermal management system 30 switches to the second operating mode, it determines the temperature difference ΔT1 relative to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT. th1 Second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 By selectively controlling the speed of the first pump 311 according to the size relationship, it is beneficial to improve the heat exchange efficiency and reduce the energy consumption of the first pump 311, thereby improving the energy-saving effect.

[0291] In some embodiments, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Satisfy: 3.5℃≤ΔT th1 ≤4.5℃; the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 Satisfy: 1℃≤ΔT th2 ≤2.5℃.

[0292] First temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 The acceptable value is greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2The possible values ​​are such that, when the temperature difference ΔT1 is compared to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT... th1 At a higher temperature, by controlling the rotational speed of the first pump 311, the amount of heat exchange medium exchanging heat with the battery 10 can be effectively increased, thereby reducing the temperature difference ΔT1, and compared with the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 When the temperature is lower, by controlling the rotational speed of the first pump 311, the amount of heat exchange medium that exchanges heat with the battery 10 can be reduced, thereby making the temperature difference ΔT1 tend to a more suitable range.

[0293] In this embodiment, by setting the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Satisfy: 3.5℃≤ΔT th1 ≤4.5℃, the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 Satisfy: 1℃≤ΔT th2 With a temperature of ≤2.5℃, more effective control of the first pump 311 can be achieved, which can meet the requirements of improving heat exchange efficiency, reducing the energy consumption of the first pump 311, and improving energy-saving effect.

[0294] Based on the energy storage system of the above embodiments of this disclosure, referring to Figures 3-6, in one aspect of this disclosure, a control method for the energy storage system of any of the foregoing embodiments is also provided. The flow path switching mechanism 34 includes at least two connected flow paths 33 and a control valve 341. Each connected flow path 33 has its two ends connected to the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32, respectively. The control valve 341 is disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths 33 and is configured to switch the on / off state of the connected flow path 33 with the control valve 341. Accordingly, the control method includes: responding to the ambient temperature being greater than a first ambient temperature threshold T... th1 This causes both the first pump 311 and the second pump 321 to start, and switches the control valve 341 to the off state, thereby switching the thermal management system 30 to a first operating mode, allowing the first heat exchange circuit and the second heat exchange circuit to operate independently; in response to the ambient temperature being less than the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 This causes the first pump 311 to turn on, the second pump 321 to turn off, and the control valve 341 to switch to the open state, thereby switching the thermal management system 30 to a second operating mode. This allows at least a portion of the flow paths of the first heat exchange loop and the second heat exchange flow path 32 to form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop, wherein the first ambient temperature threshold T... th1 Greater than the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 .

[0295] Each step in the control method can be implemented by the processor 35 of the thermal management system 30 running instructions in the memory. The processor 35 can communicate with the first pump 311, the second pump 321 and the control valve 341 via wired or wireless means to realize the switching control of the first pump 311, the second pump 321 and the control valve 341.

[0296] First ambient temperature threshold T th1 Second ambient temperature threshold T th2 The temperature of the battery 10 can be maintained at the operating temperature T by the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger 312. batt This is determined by setting the threshold temperature based on the required temperature of the heat exchange medium for the battery. Thus, the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first ambient temperature threshold T. th1 This indicates that the current ambient temperature is relatively high, which to some extent increases the cooling requirements of battery 10 and energy storage converter 20. At this time, both the first pump 311 and the second pump 321 are turned on, and the control valve 341 is switched to the off state, thereby switching the thermal management system 30 to its first operating mode, so that the first heat exchange circuit and the second heat exchange circuit can operate independently to meet the cooling requirements of battery 10 and energy storage converter 20 respectively.

[0297] Ambient temperature less than or equal to the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 This indicates that the current ambient temperature is relatively low, which reduces the cooling requirements of battery 10 and energy storage converter 20 to some extent. Even when the ambient temperature is too low, the heating requirements of battery 10 still need to be considered. At this time, the first pump 311 is turned on, the second pump 321 is turned off, and the control valve 341 is switched to the open state, thereby switching the thermal management system 30 to its second operating mode to form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop including the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second partial heat exchange flow path 324. This heat exchange combination loop, driven by the first pump 311, can meet the relatively low cooling requirements of battery 10 and energy storage converter 20. Moreover, the heat exchange medium after heat exchange with battery 10 can continue to cool the higher-temperature energy storage converter 20, which helps reduce energy consumption.

[0298] In this embodiment, based on the comparison result of the ambient temperature relative to the threshold, the working mode of the thermal management system 30 is switched by controlling the first pump 311, the second pump 321 and the control valve 341, which can effectively meet the different thermal management needs under different ambient temperatures and save energy.

[0299] In some embodiments, the first ambient temperature threshold T th1 The second ambient temperature threshold T th2Satisfy: T th1 =T batt -A,T th2 =T batt -B,T th1 >T th2 ;

[0300] Among them, T batt The heat exchange medium temperature within the first heat exchanger 312 is the temperature that allows the battery 10 to maintain its operating temperature within the working range. A and B are preset constant values ​​that satisfy 3℃ ≤ A < 5℃. <B≤5℃。

[0301] In this embodiment, the first ambient temperature threshold T is determined by preset constant values ​​A and B, respectively. th1 Second ambient temperature threshold T th2 It can determine the current working mode based on an appropriate ambient temperature threshold, which helps to meet thermal management requirements and save energy.

[0302] In some embodiments, the thermal management system 30 further includes a compression refrigeration cycle loop 36, which includes a compressor 361 and an evaporator 364. A portion of the flow path of the first heat exchange flow path 31 passes through the evaporator 364 and exchanges heat with the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 through the evaporator 364. Accordingly, the control method further includes: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the first operating mode, causing the compressor 361 to operate at a first operating frequency; and in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the second operating mode, causing the compressor 361 to shut down or operate at a second operating frequency, wherein the second operating frequency is less than the first operating frequency.

[0303] Ambient temperature affects the thermal management requirements of both battery 10 and energy storage converter 20. To meet stronger cooling demands, when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to a first operating mode, in which the compressor 361 operates at a higher first operating frequency. This allows the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 to transfer more cooling capacity to the first heat exchange path 31, improving cooling efficiency. When the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the second ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to a second operating mode, in which the compressor 361 is shut down or operates at a lower second operating frequency. This reduces or eliminates the energy consumption of the compressor 361.

[0304] In this embodiment, controlling the start-up and shutdown or operating frequency of the compressor according to the working mode of the thermal management system can meet the thermal management requirements under different ambient temperatures and effectively reduce energy consumption.

[0305] In some embodiments, the flow path switching mechanism 34 includes at least two connected flow paths 33, each connected to the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 32 at its two ends, respectively; the thermal management system 30 further includes a heating mechanism 37, which is disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths 33 and configured to heat the heat exchange medium flowing through the connected flow path 33 where the heating mechanism 37 is located when the heating function is activated. Accordingly, the control method further includes: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the first operating mode, causing the heating mechanism 37 to turn off the heating function; and in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the second operating mode, causing the heating mechanism 37 to turn on or off the heating function.

[0306] The heating mechanism 37 heats the heat exchange medium flowing through its connecting flow path 33 to increase its temperature, enabling it to be used for heating and maintaining the temperature of the battery 10, thus meeting the heating requirements of the battery 10. When the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to the first operating mode, at which point the heating mechanism 37 is turned off, thus saving energy consumption and avoiding the impact of heating on the cooling efficiency of the heat exchange circuit. When the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the second ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to the second operating mode, at which point the heating mechanism 37 is turned on or off according to the heating or cooling requirements of the battery 10.

[0307] When the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to the first operating mode. Both the battery 10 and the energy storage converter 20 require cooling. At this time, the heating mechanism 37 does not need to activate its heating function, and no heat exchange medium flows through the second connecting flow path 332 where the heating mechanism 37 is located, or only a small amount of heat exchange medium flows through it before stable circulation. Considering that the flow rate achievable by the heating mechanism 37 may differ from that of the first or second heat exchange circuit, placing the heating mechanism 37 in the first or second heat exchange flow path 31 eliminates the risk of flow resistance in either the independently operating first or second heat exchange circuit, and also eliminates the need to limit the thermal management capability of the thermal management system to match the allowable flow rate of the heating mechanism 37. Furthermore, it eliminates the risk of surface condensation caused by placing the heating mechanism 37 in the first heat exchange flow path 31, where the heat exchange medium temperature is relatively low, at higher ambient temperatures.

[0308] When the ambient temperature is less than or equal to the second ambient temperature threshold, the thermal management system 30 switches to the second operating mode, and the battery 10 may need to be cooled or heated. During the establishment of the heat exchange combination loop, the heat exchange medium is split and merged at the first position p1 and the third position p3. At this time, a portion of the heat exchange medium flows through the heating mechanism 37, and heating or de-heating of the heat exchange medium is achieved according to the activation and deactivation of the heating function of the heating mechanism 37. Thus, even if the flow rate achievable by the heating mechanism 37 is inconsistent with that of the first heat exchange loop, the risk of flow resistance forming in the heating mechanism 37 can be reduced through flow distribution during splitting.

[0309] In Figure 5, when the battery 10 needs to be heated, the heating mechanism 37 is positioned in the second connecting flow path 332, and the heating function of the heating mechanism 37 is activated. The heat exchange medium, passing through the second part of the heat exchange flow path 324 in the second heat exchange flow path 32, enters the second connecting flow path 332 from the fourth position p4, and its temperature increases under the heating action of the heating mechanism 37. The heated heat exchange medium enters the first heat exchange flow path 31 and exchanges heat with the battery 10 in the first heat exchanger 312, thereby achieving the heating of the battery 10.

[0310] In this embodiment, the opening and closing of the heating mechanism 37 is controlled according to the working mode of the thermal management system, which can meet the thermal management requirements under different ambient temperatures and effectively save energy consumption.

[0311] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the first operating mode, adjusting the control method according to the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger 312 in the first heat exchange loop. out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The temperature difference ΔT1 is used to control the output flow of the first pump 311.

[0312] In this embodiment, considering that the temperature difference ΔT1 of the first heat exchanger 312 represents to some extent the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the battery 10, the output flow rate of the first pump 311 can be controlled according to the temperature difference ΔT1 in the first working mode of the thermal management system 30, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the entire system and save energy.

[0313] In some embodiments, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger 312 in the first heat exchange loop out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The step of controlling the output flow rate of the first pump 311 based on the temperature difference ΔT1 includes: responding to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than a first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This increases the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to improve its output flow rate; in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔTth2 This reduces the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to decrease its output flow rate; and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT. th2 And less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This keeps the rotational speed of the first pump 311 constant; wherein, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 .

[0314] If the temperature difference ΔT1 is greater than the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs a significant amount of heat from battery 10, resulting in a higher cooling demand for battery 10. Therefore, the processor can increase the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to increase its output flow rate, thereby increasing the amount of heat exchange medium exchanging heat with battery 10 and improving heat exchange efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT1 is less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs relatively little heat from battery 10, and battery 10 has a high cooling requirement. Therefore, the processor can reduce the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to decrease its output flow rate. This reduces the energy consumption of the first pump 311 while meeting the cooling requirements of the battery, thus improving energy efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT1 is within the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 and the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Between these points, the heat exchange of the first heat exchanger 312 is relatively stable, and there is no need to adjust the speed of the first pump 311.

[0315] In this embodiment, the temperature difference ΔT1 is based on the first temperature difference threshold ΔT. th1 Second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 By selectively controlling the speed of the first pump 311 according to the size relationship, it is beneficial to improve the heat exchange efficiency and reduce the energy consumption of the first pump 311, thereby improving the energy-saving effect.

[0316] In some embodiments, the second heat exchange path 32 further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger 325 connected in series with the second heat exchanger 322. Accordingly, the control method further includes: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the first operating mode, adjusting the control method based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path segment of the second heat exchange loop containing the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325. out2 With inlet temperature T in2 The temperature difference ΔT2 and the inlet pressure P of the second pump 321 in2 The inlet pressure P of the first pump 311 in1 The pressure difference ΔP controls the output flow of the second pump 321.

[0317] In this embodiment, a natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is installed in the second heat exchange flow path 324. This allows the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 to participate in the natural heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the external environment in both the first and second operating modes of the thermal management system 30, which helps to further reduce system energy consumption. Furthermore, considering that the temperature difference ΔT2 of the second heat exchanger 322 represents, to some extent, the amount of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the energy storage converter 20, and that the pressure difference between the second and first heat exchange loops cannot be too high (as this could affect the balance between the two loops and cause flow resistance due to a mismatch between the flow rate of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 and the loop flow), the output flow rate of the second pump 321 needs to be controlled based on the temperature difference ΔT2 and the pressure difference ΔP in the first operating mode of the thermal management system 30.

[0318] In some embodiments, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 in the second heat exchange loop... out2 With inlet temperature T in2 The temperature difference ΔT2 and the inlet pressure P of the second pump 321 in2 The inlet pressure P of the first pump 311 in1 The step of controlling the output flow rate of the second pump 321 based on the pressure difference ΔP includes: responding to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than a third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 And the pressure difference ΔP is less than or equal to the pressure threshold ΔP th This increases the rotational speed of the second pump 321 to improve its output flow rate; in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being less than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 This reduces the rotational speed of the second pump 321 to decrease its output flow rate; and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than or equal to the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT. th4 And less than or equal to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 This keeps the rotational speed of the second pump 321 constant; wherein, the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Greater than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 .

[0319] If the temperature difference ΔT2 is greater than the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 And the pressure difference ΔP is less than or equal to the pressure threshold ΔP thThis indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs a significant amount of heat from the energy storage converter 20, resulting in a high cooling demand for the energy storage converter 20. Furthermore, there is no excessive pressure difference between the two heat exchange loops, allowing for further increases in the rotational speed of the second pump 321. Therefore, the processor can increase the rotational speed of the second pump 321 to improve its output flow rate, thereby increasing the amount of heat exchange medium exchanged with the energy storage converter 20 and improving heat exchange efficiency. If the pressure difference ΔP is greater than the pressure threshold ΔP... th Since there is no room to increase the speed of the second pump 321, other measures need to be taken to improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0320] If the temperature difference ΔT2 is less than the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs relatively little heat from the energy storage converter 20, resulting in a high cooling demand for the energy storage converter 20. Therefore, the processor can reduce the rotational speed of the second pump 321 to decrease its output flow rate. This satisfies the cooling requirements of the energy storage converter 20 while reducing the energy consumption of the second pump 321, thus improving energy efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT2 is within the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT... th4 and the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 Between these points, the heat exchange of the second heat exchanger 322 is relatively stable, and there is no need to adjust the speed of the second pump 321.

[0321] In this embodiment, based on the temperature difference ΔT2 relative to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 and the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 Taking into account the relationship between the magnitudes of the two heat exchange circuits and the pressure difference ΔP between them, selectively controlling the speed of the second pump 321 is beneficial to improving heat exchange efficiency and reducing the energy consumption of the second pump 321, thereby improving energy-saving effect.

[0322] In some embodiments, the second heat exchange flow path 32 further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger 325 connected in series with the second heat exchanger 322. Accordingly, the control method further includes: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the second operating mode, adjusting the control method based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path segment of the second heat exchange flow path 32 containing the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325. out2 The flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination circuit is controlled.

[0323] In this embodiment, a natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is installed in the second heat exchange flow path 324. This allows the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 to participate in the natural heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the external environment in both the first and second operating modes of the thermal management system 30, which helps to further reduce system energy consumption. Furthermore, in the second operating mode of the thermal management system, the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second heat exchange flow path 324 can form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop. The outlet temperature T of the series flow path section... out2 The level of the flow rate can indicate the heat exchange margin of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 to a certain extent, thereby allowing for targeted control of the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination loop. This ensures that the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is fully utilized to meet the thermal management requirements of the thermal management system and helps reduce system energy consumption.

[0324] In some embodiments, the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger 322 and the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 in the second heat exchange flow path 32 is used. out2 The step of controlling the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination loop includes: responding to the outlet temperature T out2 Less than the first target temperature threshold T th3 Increase the opening of the control valve 341 to increase the flow rate into the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination circuit; in response to the outlet temperature T out2 Greater than the second target temperature threshold T th4 Adjusting the opening of the control valve 341 to reduce the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination circuit; and / or in response to the outlet temperature T out2 Less than or equal to the first target temperature threshold T th3 And greater than or equal to the second target temperature threshold T th4 This ensures that the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 in the heat exchange combination loop remains constant; wherein, the second target temperature threshold T th4 Greater than the first target temperature threshold T th3 .

[0325] In the second operating mode of the thermal management system, the first heat exchange flow path 31 and the second partial heat exchange flow path 324 can form a single-pump driven heat exchange combination loop. At this time, the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section... out2If the value is low, it indicates that the heat exchange margin of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is large. The flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 and exchanging heat with the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 can be increased by increasing the opening of the control valve 341. This effectively reduces the demand on other cooling sources, such as reducing the demand on the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36. This can reduce the load on the compressor 361, allowing it to shut down, operate at a lower frequency, or operate for a shorter time. This can further improve the reliability of the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36 and help improve the overall lifespan of the energy storage system.

[0326] If the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section out2 A higher temperature indicates insufficient heat exchange margin in the natural cooling heat exchanger 325. In this case, the flow rate entering the second heat exchange path 32 and exchanging heat with the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 can be reduced by decreasing the opening of the control valve 341. This allows more flow to receive additional cooling capacity in the first heat exchange path 31, such as increasing the cooling capacity received from the compression refrigeration cycle loop 36, so that the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section can be kept higher. out2 Adjust to a suitable temperature range. If the outlet temperature T of the series flow section... out2 First target temperature threshold T th3 Second target temperature threshold T th4 If the flow rate is between 325 and 341, it indicates that the heat exchange margin of the natural cooling heat exchanger 325 is suitable. At this time, it is sufficient to keep the flow rate entering the second heat exchange flow path 32 in the heat exchange combination circuit constant, without adjusting the opening of the control valve 341.

[0327] In this embodiment, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section out2 Relative to the first target temperature threshold T th3 Second target temperature threshold T th4 The size relationship allows for selective adjustment of the opening degree of control valve 341, which helps meet thermal management requirements, reduce energy consumption, and improve energy-saving effects.

[0328] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: in response to the thermal management system 30 switching to the second operating mode, adjusting the control method according to the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger 312 in the first heat exchange loop. out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The temperature difference ΔT1 is used to control the output flow of the first pump 311.

[0329] In this embodiment, considering that the temperature difference ΔT1 of the first heat exchanger 312 represents to some extent the degree of heat absorbed by the heat exchange medium from the battery 10, the output flow rate of the first pump 311 can be controlled according to the temperature difference ΔT1 in the second working mode of the thermal management system 30, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the entire system and save energy.

[0330] In some embodiments, based on the outlet temperature T of the first heat exchanger 312 in the first heat exchange loop out1 With inlet temperature T in1 The step of controlling the output flow rate of the first pump 311 based on the temperature difference ΔT1 includes: responding to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than a first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This increases the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to improve its output flow rate; in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 This reduces the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to decrease its output flow rate; and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT. th2 And less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This keeps the rotational speed of the first pump 311 constant; wherein, the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Greater than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 .

[0331] If the temperature difference ΔT1 is greater than the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs a significant amount of heat from battery 10, resulting in a higher cooling demand for battery 10. Therefore, the processor can increase the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to increase its output flow rate, thereby increasing the amount of heat exchange medium exchanging heat with battery 10 and improving heat exchange efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT1 is less than the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 This indicates that the heat exchange medium absorbs relatively little heat from battery 10, and battery 10 has a high cooling requirement. Therefore, the processor can reduce the rotational speed of the first pump 311 to decrease its output flow rate. This reduces the energy consumption of the first pump 311 while meeting the cooling requirements of the battery, thus improving energy efficiency. If the temperature difference ΔT1 is within the second temperature difference threshold ΔT... th2 and the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 Between these points, the heat exchange of the first heat exchanger 312 is relatively stable, and there is no need to adjust the speed of the first pump 311.

[0332] In this embodiment, when the thermal management system 30 switches to the second operating mode, it determines the temperature difference ΔT1 relative to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT. th1 Second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2By selectively controlling the speed of the first pump 311 according to the size relationship, it is beneficial to improve the heat exchange efficiency and reduce the energy consumption of the first pump 311, thereby improving the energy-saving effect.

[0333] This specification describes multiple embodiments in a progressive manner, with each embodiment having a different focus. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. For the control method embodiments, since their overall structure and content correspond to those in the system embodiments, the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to in the descriptions of the system embodiments.

[0334] The embodiments of this disclosure have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this disclosure, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein based on the above description.

[0335] While specific embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the examples are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An energy storage system, comprising: A battery (10), an energy storage converter (20) and a thermal management system (30), wherein the thermal management system (30) comprises: a first heat exchange circuit (31) comprising a first pump (311) and a first heat exchanger (312) for heat exchange with the battery (10), and configured to form a first heat exchange loop when the first pump (311) is turned on; a second heat exchange circuit (32) comprising a second pump (321) and a second heat exchanger (322) for heat exchange with the energy storage converter (20), and configured to form a second heat exchange loop when the second pump (321) is turned on; a circuit switching mechanism (34), the first heat exchange circuit (31) and the second heat exchange circuit (32) being operatively communicated through the circuit switching mechanism (34); and a processor (35) configured to control the first pump (311) and the second pump (321) to be turned on or turned off according to an ambient temperature, and to control the circuit switching mechanism (34) to be switched to switch a working mode of the thermal management system (30).

2. The energy storage system of claim 1, wherein, The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the thermal management system (30) being switched to a first working mode, make the first heat exchange loop and the second heat exchange loop run independently; in response to the thermal management system (30) being switched to a second working mode, make at least part of the first heat exchange circuit (31) and the second heat exchange circuit (32) form a single-pump-driven heat exchange combined loop.

3. The energy storage system of claim 2, wherein, The circuit switching mechanism (34) comprises: at least two communication circuits (33), both ends of each communication circuit (33) being communicated with the first heat exchange circuit (31) and the second heat exchange circuit (32) respectively; and a control valve (341) arranged in at least one of the at least two communication circuits (33), and configured to switch on or off the communication circuit (33) provided with the control valve (341) in the at least two communication circuits (33); The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the ambient temperature being greater than a first ambient temperature threshold T th1 switching both the first pump (311) and the second pump (321) on and switching the control valve (341) to an open state to switch the thermal management system (30) to the second operating mode. in response to the ambient temperature being less than or equal to a second ambient temperature threshold T th2 opening the first pump (311), closing the second pump (321), and switching the control valve (341) to an open state to switch the thermal management system (30) to the second operating mode, wherein the first ambient temperature threshold T th1 is greater than the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 .

4. The energy storage system of claim 3, wherein, said first ambient temperature threshold T th1 , said second ambient temperature threshold T th2 satisfies: T th1 = T batt -A, T th2 = T batt -B, T th1 > T th2 ; wherein T batt is a heat exchange medium temperature in the first heat exchanger (312) capable of maintaining the temperature of the battery (10) in an operating range, A and B are preset constant values, and satisfy 3℃≤A<5℃ and 3℃<B≤5℃.

5. The energy storage system of any of claims 2-4, wherein, The thermal management system (30) further comprises a compression refrigeration cycle circuit (36) comprising a compressor (361) and an evaporator (364), and part of the first heat exchange circuit (31) passes through the evaporator (364) and exchanges heat with the compression refrigeration cycle circuit (36) through the evaporator (364); The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the thermal management system (30) being switched to the first working mode, make the compressor (361) run at a first running frequency; in response to the thermal management system (30) being switched to the second working mode, make the compressor (361) be turned off or run at a second running frequency, wherein the second running frequency is less than the first running frequency.

6. The energy storage system of any of claims 2-5, wherein, The flow path switching mechanism (34) includes at least two connected flow paths (33), and the two ends of each connected flow path (33) are respectively connected to the first heat exchange flow path (31) and the second heat exchange flow path (32); the thermal management system (30) further includes a heating mechanism (371), which is disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths (33) and is configured to heat the heat exchange medium flowing through the connected flow path (33) where the heating mechanism (371) is located when the heating function is turned on; The processor (35) is configured as follows: In response to the thermal management system (30) switching to the first working mode, the heating mechanism (371) shuts off its heating function; In response to the thermal management system (30) switching to the second working mode, the heating mechanism (371) turns the heating function on or off.

7. The energy storage system of any of claims 2-6, wherein, The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the heat management system (30) switching to the first operating mode, controlling the output flow of the first pump (311) according to a temperature difference ΔT1 of the import temperature T out1 and the outlet temperature T in1 of the first heat exchanger (312) in the first heat exchange circuit.

8. The energy storage system of claim 7, wherein, The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than a first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 increasing the rotational speed of the first pump (311) to increase the output flow rate of the first pump (311); in response to the temperature difference ΔΤ1 being less than a second temperature difference threshold ΔΤ2 th2 decrease the rotational speed of the first pump (311) to reduce the output flow rate of the first pump (311); and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 , and less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 , the rotational speed of the first pump (311) is kept unchanged; wherein the first temperature difference threshold AT th1 greater than the second temperature difference threshold AT th2 .

9. The energy storage system according to claim 8, wherein, said first temperature difference threshold AT th1 satisfies: 3.5°C ≤ AT th1 ≤ 4.5°C; said second temperature difference threshold AT th2 satisfies: 1 °C ≤ AT th2 ≤ 2.5 °C.

10. The energy storage system of any of claims 2-9, wherein, The second heat exchange path (32) further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger (325) connected in series with the second heat exchanger (322), and the processor (35) is configured to: In response to the thermal management system (30) switching to the first operating mode, based on the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger (322) and the natural cooling heat exchanger (325) in the second heat exchange loop. out2 With inlet temperature T in2 The temperature difference ΔT2 and the inlet pressure P of the second pump (321) in2 The inlet pressure P of the first pump (311) in1 The pressure difference ΔP controls the output flow of the second pump (321).

11. The energy storage system of claim 10, wherein, The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than a third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 and the pressure difference ΔP being less than or equal to a pressure threshold ΔP th increasing the rotational speed of the second pump (321) to increase the output flow rate of the second pump (321); in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being less than a fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 decrease the rotational speed of the second pump (321) to reduce the output flow rate of the second pump (321); and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than or equal to the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 and less than or equal to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 , the rotational speed of the second pump (321) is kept unchanged; wherein the third temperature difference threshold AT th3 greater than the fourth temperature difference threshold AT th4 .

12. The energy storage system according to claim 11, wherein, said third temperature difference threshold AT th3 satisfies: 6°C ≤ AT th3 ≤ 7°C; said fourth temperature difference threshold AT th4 satisfies: 4°C ≤ AT th4 ≤ 5°C; said pressure threshold ΔP th satisfies: 25 KPa ≤ ΔP th ≤ 45 KPa.

13. The energy storage system of any of claims 2-6, wherein, The second heat exchange path (32) further includes a natural cooling heat exchanger (325) connected in series with the second heat exchanger (322), and the path switching mechanism (34) includes: At least two connected flow paths (33), each connected flow path (33) having its two ends connected to the first heat exchange flow path (31) and the second heat exchange flow path (32), respectively; and A control valve (341) is disposed in at least one of the at least two connecting flow paths (33) and is configured to switch the on / off state of the connecting flow path (33) in which the control valve (341) is disposed; The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the thermal management system (30) switching to the second operating mode, controlling the flow rate into the second heat exchange flow path (32) in the heat exchange combination circuit in accordance with the outlet temperature T out2 controlling the flow rate into the second heat exchange flow path (32) in the heat exchange combination circuit.

14. The energy storage system of claim 13, wherein, The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the outlet temperature T out2 less than a first target temperature threshold T th3 , increase the opening degree of the control valve (341) to increase the flow rate increase into the second heat exchange flow path (32) in the heat exchange combined circuit; in response to the outlet temperature T out2 greater than a second target temperature threshold T th4 , and adjusting the opening degree of the control valve (341) to reduce the flow rate into the second heat exchange flow path (32) in the heat exchange combined circuit; and / or in response to the outlet temperature T out2 being less than or equal to the first target temperature threshold T th3 and greater than or equal to the second target temperature threshold T th4 , the flow rate in the heat exchange combined circuit into the second heat exchange flow path (32) is kept unchanged; wherein the second target temperature threshold T th4 greater than the first target temperature threshold T th3 .

15. The energy storage system according to claim 14, wherein, said first target temperature threshold T th3 satisfies: 15°C ≤ T th3 ≤ 17°C; said second target temperature threshold T th4 satisfies: 19°C ≤ T th4 ≤ 21°C.

16. The energy storage system of claim 14 or 15, wherein, The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the heat management system (30) switching to the second operating mode, controlling the output flow rate of the first pump (311) in accordance with a temperature difference ΔT1 of the import temperature T out1 and the outlet temperature T in1 of the first heat exchanger (312) in the first heat exchange circuit.

17. The energy storage system of claim 16, wherein, The processor (35) is configured to: in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than a first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 increasing the rotational speed of the first pump (311) to increase the output flow rate of the first pump (311); in response to the temperature difference ΔΤ1 being less than a second temperature difference threshold ΔΤ2 th2 decrease the rotational speed of the first pump (311) to reduce the output flow rate of the first pump (311); and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔΤ1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔΤ th2 , and less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔΤ th1 , the rotational speed of the first pump (311) is kept unchanged; wherein the first temperature difference threshold AT th1 greater than the second temperature difference threshold AT th2 .

18. The energy storage system according to claim 17, wherein, said first temperature difference threshold AT th1 satisfies: 3.5°C ≤ AT th1 ≤ 4.5°C; said second temperature difference threshold AT th2 satisfies: 1 °C ≤ AT th2 ≤ 2.5 °C.

19. A control method for an energy storage system according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein the flow path switching mechanism (34) includes at least two connected flow paths (33) and a control valve (341), wherein the two ends of each connected flow path (33) are respectively connected to the first heat exchange flow path (31) and the second heat exchange flow path (32), and the control valve (341) is disposed in at least one of the at least two connected flow paths (33) and is configured to switch the on / off state of the connected flow path (33) in which the control valve (341) is disposed; wherein The control method includes: in response to the ambient temperature being greater than a first ambient temperature threshold T th1 turning on the first pump (311) and the second pump (321) and switching the control valve (341) to an off state to switch the thermal management system (30) to a first working mode, so that the first heat exchange circuit and the second heat exchange circuit operate independently; in response to the ambient temperature being less than or equal to a second ambient temperature threshold T th2 switching the first pump (311) to be on, the second pump (321) to be off, and the control valve (341) to be switched to an open state, so as to switch the thermal management system (30) to a second working mode, so that the first heat exchange circuit and at least part of the second heat exchange circuit (32) form a single-pump-driven heat exchange combined circuit, wherein the first ambient temperature threshold T th1 is greater than the second ambient temperature threshold T th2 .

20. The control method according to claim 19, wherein said first ambient temperature threshold T th1 , said second ambient temperature threshold T th2 satisfies: T th1 = T batt - A, T th2 = T batt - B, T th1 > T th2 ; wherein T batt is a temperature of the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchanger (312) capable of maintaining the temperature of the battery (10) in the working interval, A and B are preset constant values satisfying 3℃≤A<5℃ and 3℃<B≤5℃.

21. The control method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein The heat management system (30) further comprises a compression refrigeration cycle circuit (36) comprising a compressor (361) and an evaporator (364), a part of the first heat exchange flow path (31) passing through the evaporator (364) and exchanging heat with the compression refrigeration cycle circuit (36) through the evaporator (364); The control method further comprises: in response to the heat management system (30) switching to the first working mode, operating the compressor (361) at a first operating frequency; in response to the heat management system (30) switching to the second working mode, closing or operating the compressor (361) at a second operating frequency, wherein the second operating frequency is less than the first operating frequency.

22. The control method according to any one of claims 19-21, wherein, The flow path switching mechanism (34) comprises at least two communication flow paths (33), both ends of each communication flow path (33) being in communication with the first heat exchange flow path (31) and the second heat exchange flow path (32) respectively; The heat management system (30) further comprises a heating mechanism (371) arranged in at least one of the at least two communication flow paths (33) and configured to heat the heat exchange medium flowing through the communication flow path (33) where the heating mechanism (371) is arranged when the heating function is turned on. The control method further comprises: in response to the heat management system (30) switching to the first working mode, closing the heating function of the heating mechanism (371); in response to the heat management system (30) switching to the second working mode, turning on or closing the heating function of the heating mechanism (371).

23. The control method according to any one of claims 19-22, further comprising: in response to the heat management system (30) switching to the first operating mode, controlling the output flow of the first pump (311) according to a temperature difference ΔT1 of the import temperature T out1 and the outlet temperature T in1 of the first heat exchanger (312) in the first heat exchange circuit.

24. The control method according to claim 23, wherein controlling the output flow rate of the first pump (311) in accordance with the temperature difference ΔT1 between the outlet temperature T out1 of the first heat exchanger (312) in the first heat exchange circuit and the inlet temperature T in1 of the second heat exchanger (313) in the second heat exchange circuit. in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than a first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 increasing the rotational speed of the first pump (311) to increase the output flow rate of the first pump (311); in response to the temperature difference ΔΤ1 being less than a second temperature difference threshold ΔΤ2 th2 decrease the rotational speed of the first pump (311) to reduce the output flow rate of the first pump (311); and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔT th2 , and less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 , the rotational speed of the first pump (311) is kept unchanged; wherein the first temperature difference threshold AT th1 greater than the second temperature difference threshold AT th2 .

25. The control method according to any one of claims 19-24, wherein, The second heat exchange flow path (32) further comprises a natural cooling heat exchanger (325) connected in series with the second heat exchanger (322), wherein the control method further comprises: in response to the heat management system (30) switching to the first operating mode, controlling the output flow rate of the second pump (321) according to the temperature difference ΔT2 between the outlet temperature T out2 of the series connection flow path section of the second heat exchanger (322) and the natural cooling heat exchanger (325) in the second heat exchange circuit, and the pressure difference ΔP between the inlet pressure P in2 of the second pump (321) and the inlet pressure P in2 of the first pump (311). in1 of the second pump (321) and the inlet pressure P in2 of the first pump (311).

26. The control method according to claim 25, wherein controlling the output flow rate of the second pump (321) based on the temperature difference ΔT2 between the outlet temperature T out2 of the series connection flow path section of the second heat exchanger (322) and the natural cooling heat exchanger (325) in the second heat exchange circuit and the inlet temperature T in2 of the second heat exchanger (322), and the pressure difference ΔP between the inlet pressure P in2 of the second pump (321) and the inlet pressure P in1 of the first pump (311) in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than a third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 and the pressure difference ΔP being less than or equal to a pressure threshold ΔP th increasing the rotational speed of the second pump (321) to increase the output flow rate of the second pump (321); in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being less than a fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 decrease the rotation speed of the second pump (321) to reduce the output flow rate of the second pump (321); and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔT2 being greater than or equal to the fourth temperature difference threshold ΔT th4 and less than or equal to the third temperature difference threshold ΔT th3 , the rotational speed of the second pump (321) is kept unchanged; wherein the third temperature difference threshold AT th3 greater than the fourth temperature difference threshold AT th4 .

27. The control method according to any one of claims 19-26, wherein, The second heat exchange flow path (32) further comprises a natural cooling heat exchanger (325) connected in series with the second heat exchanger (322), wherein the control method further comprises: in response to the thermal management system (30) switching to the second operating mode, controlling the flow rate into the second heat exchange flow path (32) in the heat exchange combination circuit in accordance with the outlet temperature T out2 controlling the flow rate into the second heat exchange flow path (32) in the heat exchange combination circuit.

28. The control method according to claim 27, wherein According to the outlet temperature T of the series flow path section of the second heat exchanger (322) and the natural cooling heat exchanger (325) in the second heat exchange flow path (32) out2 The step of controlling the flow rate into the second heat exchange flow path (32) in the heat exchange combination circuit includes: in response to the outlet temperature T out2 less than a first target temperature threshold T th3 , increase the opening degree of the control valve (341) to increase the flow rate increase into the second heat exchange flow path (32) in the heat exchange combined circuit; in response to the outlet temperature T out2 greater than a second target temperature threshold T th4 , and adjusting the opening degree of the control valve (341) to reduce the flow rate into the second heat exchange flow path (32) in the heat exchange combined circuit; and / or in response to the outlet temperature T out2 being less than or equal to the first target temperature threshold T th3 and greater than or equal to the second target temperature threshold T th4 , the flow rate in the heat exchange combined circuit into the second heat exchange flow path (32) is kept unchanged; wherein the second target temperature threshold T th4 greater than the first target temperature threshold T th3 .

29. The control method according to claim 28, further comprising: in response to the heat management system (30) switching to the second operating mode, controlling the output flow rate of the first pump (311) in accordance with a temperature difference ΔT1 of the import temperature T out1 and the outlet temperature T in1 of the first heat exchanger (312) in the first heat exchange circuit.

30. The control method according to claim 29, wherein controlling the output flow rate of the first pump (311) in accordance with the temperature difference ΔT1 between the outlet temperature T out1 of the first heat exchanger (312) in the first heat exchange circuit and the inlet temperature T in1 of the second heat exchanger (313) in the second heat exchange circuit. in response to the temperature difference ΔT1 being greater than a first temperature difference threshold ΔT th1 increasing the rotational speed of the first pump (311) to increase the output flow rate of the first pump (311); in response to the temperature difference ΔΤ1 being less than a second temperature difference threshold ΔΤ2 th2 decrease the rotational speed of the first pump (311) to reduce the output flow rate of the first pump (311); and / or in response to the temperature difference ΔΤ1 being greater than or equal to the second temperature difference threshold ΔΤ th2 , and less than or equal to the first temperature difference threshold ΔΤ th1 , the rotational speed of the first pump (311) is kept unchanged; wherein the first temperature difference threshold AT th1 greater than the second temperature difference threshold AT th2 .

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