Control device, thermal management system and energy storage apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of batteries. Provided are a control device, a thermal management system and an energy storage apparatus. The thermal management system comprises a control device, a refrigerant unit and a heat exchange unit. A heat exchange fluid in a heat exchange flow path can exchange heat with a refrigerant in a refrigerant flow path. The control device comprises a box body, a control module and a heat exchange structure, wherein the box body is provided with a placement cavity and an assembly port, the assembly port being in communication with the placement cavity; the control module is arranged in the placement cavity; and the heat exchange structure closes the assembly port, and the heat exchange structure comprises a fluid channel, the fluid channel being in communication with the heat exchange flow path, and the heat exchange flow path being configured to exchange heat with a battery cell.

Description

A control device, a thermal management system, and an energy storage device

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This disclosure is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411737894.2, filed on November 29, 2024, entitled “A Control Device, Thermal Management System and Energy Storage Device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of battery technology, and more particularly to a control device, a thermal management system, and an energy storage device. Background Technology

[0004] Battery cells can be used to store or provide electrical energy, and they can be used in electrical devices, such as vehicles or energy storage devices.

[0005] In related technologies, thermal management systems are used to regulate the temperature of individual battery cells. The thermal management system includes a control device. During the operation of the thermal management system, the electronic components in the control module of the control device will generate heat, and the control device has a heat dissipation requirement. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure aim to provide a control device, a thermal management system, and an energy storage device capable of dissipating heat from the control module.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this disclosure embodiment is implemented as follows:

[0008] This disclosure provides a thermal management system, which includes a control device, a refrigerant unit, and a heat exchanger unit. The refrigerant unit includes a refrigerant flow path for circulating refrigerant, and the heat exchanger unit includes a heat exchange flow path for circulating heat exchange fluid. The heat exchange fluid in the heat exchange flow path can exchange heat with the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path. The control device includes:

[0009] The box body forms a placement cavity and an assembly port, with the assembly port communicating with the placement cavity;

[0010] The control module is located inside the placement cavity and is configured to control the operation of the thermal management system.

[0011] The heat exchange structure has a closed assembly port and includes a fluid channel that is connected to a heat exchange flow path for heat exchange with the battery cells.

[0012] The thermal management system provided in this embodiment allows the heat exchange fluid to flow through a fluid channel, facilitating heat exchange between the heat exchange fluid and the control module to cool or heat the control module. Compared to air, the heat exchange fluid has a larger heat capacity, better long-term temperature stability, higher reliability, and longer lifespan. The temperature difference between the heat exchange fluid and the control module is greater than the temperature difference between ambient air and the control module, resulting in better heat exchange. The heat exchange fluid can meet the heat dissipation and heating requirements of the control module. This eliminates the need for fans and ventilation holes on the side walls of the housing, improving its waterproof and dustproof performance. It also eliminates the need for heat dissipation fins within the housing, saving space. The heat exchange structure has a closed assembly port, minimizing its footprint in the placement cavity. Furthermore, the heat exchange structure not only provides heat exchange but also replaces part of the housing wall, achieving multiple functions and reducing costs.

[0013] In some embodiments, the heat exchange structure includes a heat spreader and heat exchange tubes, the heat spreader encloses the assembly port, and the heat exchange tubes are disposed on the heat spreader; the heat exchange tubes form a fluid channel or the heat exchange tubes and the heat spreader together define a fluid channel.

[0014] In this embodiment, the heat exchange plate can balance the temperature difference and increase the heat exchange area. The heat exchange plate can not only quickly transfer heat to the refrigerant, but also transfer some heat to the ambient air. In this way, the heat exchange structure is not limited to heat exchange on the surface of the heat exchange tube, and has the advantages of strong heat dissipation capacity, small layout space, low cost and high reliability.

[0015] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tubes extend in a curved manner along the outer surface of the heat exchange plate.

[0016] In this embodiment, the heat exchange tubes are disposed on the outer surface of the heat exchange plate. The heat exchange tubes can contact the ambient air for heat exchange, improving the heat exchange effect and avoiding the heat exchange tubes occupying space inside the box. The heat exchange tubes bend and extend along the outer surface of the heat exchange plate, which not only effectively increases the length of the heat exchange tubes and the contact area with the heat exchange plate, thereby extending the heat exchange time of the refrigerant and increasing the heat exchange capacity, but also allows for free arrangement according to the spatial layout of the control module, and can be compatible with the heat dissipation requirements of various spatially arranged electronic components.

[0017] In some embodiments, the heat exchange plate includes a first heat exchange section, a second heat exchange section, and a connecting section. The first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section are both perpendicular to a first direction. The height of the first heat exchange section in the first direction is higher than the height of the second heat exchange section. The connecting section connects the first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section. A heat exchange tube is disposed in at least one of the first heat exchange section, the connecting section, and the second heat exchange section.

[0018] In this embodiment, the first heat-spreading section and the second heat-spreading section have a height difference in the first direction. The heat-spreading plate is roughly Z-shaped. Without significantly increasing the installation space occupied by the control device, the area of ​​the heat-spreading plate can be increased by utilizing its spatial shape, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency.

[0019] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube includes a first heat exchange section, a second heat exchange section, and a transition section. The first heat exchange section is disposed on the outer surface of the first heat equalization section, the second heat exchange section is disposed on the outer surface of the second heat equalization section, and the transition section is disposed on the outer surface of the connecting section and connects the first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section.

[0020] In this embodiment, heat exchange tubes are distributed on the outer surfaces of the first heat exchange section, the connecting section, and the second heat exchange section. The heat exchange tubes can be arranged in three-dimensional space, which can improve the maintenance convenience of the heat exchange structure. The length of the heat exchange tubes can be relatively long, and the contact area between the heat exchange tubes and the heat exchange plate can be relatively large, which can also improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0021] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tubes are in contact with the heat spreader; or,

[0022] The heat exchange structure includes a heat-conducting element, which is disposed between the heat exchange tube and the heat spreader.

[0023] In this embodiment, the heat exchange tube contacts the heat spreader. That is, the surface of the heat exchange tube is in direct contact with the surface of the heat spreader. In this way, the heat spreader can directly conduct heat to the heat exchange tube. The use of a thermally conductive component minimizes the thermal resistance at the heat exchange interface between the heat exchange tube and the heat spreader, so that heat can be transferred between the heat exchange tube and the heat spreader through thermal conduction.

[0024] In some embodiments, the housing has a sealing portion surrounding the assembly port, and a sealed connection is formed between the heat exchange structure and the sealing portion.

[0025] In this embodiment, the heat exchange structure seals the assembly opening. For example, the heat spreader and the sealing part are sealed together. This prevents impurities such as dust and wastewater from entering the placement cavity through the assembly gap between the heat exchange structure and the housing.

[0026] In some embodiments, the heat exchange structure includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, both of which are in communication with the fluid channel. The fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are both located outside the housing and are connected to the heat exchange flow path.

[0027] In this embodiment, both the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are located outside the casing. This not only facilitates the connection of the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet to the heat exchange flow path, but also minimizes the need to disassemble the casing when maintaining the heat exchange structure, thus improving maintenance convenience.

[0028] This disclosure provides a control device, including:

[0029] The box body forms a placement cavity and an assembly port, with the assembly port communicating with the placement cavity;

[0030] The control module is located inside the placement cavity and is configured to control the operation of the thermal management system.

[0031] The heat exchange structure has a closed assembly port and includes a fluid channel that is connected to the heat exchange flow path of the thermal management system. The heat exchange flow path is used to circulate heat exchange fluid and to exchange heat with the battery cells.

[0032] This disclosure also provides an energy storage device, including:

[0033] At least two battery units, each battery unit comprising a single battery cell;

[0034] The cabinet has a battery compartment, in which the battery device is housed;

[0035] The thermal management system of any of the above is used to regulate the temperature of individual battery cells. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the control device in one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 3 is an explosion diagram of the control device shown in Figure 2;

[0039] Figure 4 is an exploded view of the heat exchange structure and the first seal in one embodiment of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first thermal management system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second thermal management system in one embodiment of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a third thermal management system in one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fourth thermal management system in one embodiment of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an energy storage device in some embodiments of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0045] 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.

[0046] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments disclosed herein, 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 indicating the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features.

[0048] In this document, the term "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 herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0049] It should be noted that in this disclosure, "at least two" includes two or more. "Multiple" includes two or more. The first direction is represented by X.

[0050] Please refer to Figure 1. To facilitate understanding of the battery cell, battery device 100, energy storage device, and electrical device provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, some basic structures of the battery cell, battery device 100, energy storage device, and electrical device provided in the embodiments of this disclosure will be introduced first.

[0051] The battery device 100 provided in the embodiments of this disclosure includes the battery cell in any of the embodiments of this disclosure. The thermal management system provided in the embodiments of this disclosure can be used in electrical appliances and energy storage devices.

[0052] The number of battery cells can be one or more, and the battery cells are used to provide voltage and capacity. Multiple battery cells can be connected in series, parallel, or mixed connections through a busbar. The busbar is used to achieve electrical connection between at least two battery cells.

[0053] For example, hybrid connection refers to at least two battery cells that are connected in both series and parallel. At least two battery cells can be directly connected in series, parallel, or hybrid connections; of course, at least two battery cells can also be first connected in series, parallel, or hybrid connections to form a module, and the module can then be connected in series, parallel, or hybrid connections to form a whole.

[0054] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the battery cell can be a secondary battery, which refers to a battery cell that can be recharged to activate the active materials and continue to be used after the battery cell has been discharged.

[0055] The battery cell can be a lithium-ion battery cell, a sodium-ion battery cell, a sodium-lithium-ion battery cell, a lithium metal battery cell, a sodium metal battery cell, a lithium-sulfur battery cell, a magnesium-ion battery cell, a nickel-metal hydride battery cell, a nickel-cadmium battery cell, or a lead-acid battery cell, etc., and the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to this.

[0056] A single battery cell typically includes an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator, with the separator positioned between the positive and negative electrodes. During the charging and discharging process of a single battery cell, active ions (such as lithium ions) repeatedly insert and extract between the positive and negative electrodes. The separator, positioned between the positive and negative electrodes, prevents short circuits while allowing active ions to pass through.

[0057] In some embodiments, the positive electrode can be a positive electrode sheet, which may include a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode active material disposed on at least one surface of the positive electrode current collector.

[0058] As an example, the positive current collector has two surfaces opposite each other in its own thickness direction, and the positive active material is disposed on either or both of the two opposite surfaces of the positive current collector.

[0059] As an example, the positive current collector can be a metal foil, a conductive polymer material, a carbon material, or a composite current collector. For example, as a metal foil, pure metals, alloys, or surface-treated metals can be used, including but not limited to stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, titanium, or silver. The composite current collector may include a polymer material base layer and a metal layer. The composite current collector can be formed by forming a metal material (aluminum, aluminum alloys, nickel, nickel alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, silver, and silver alloys, etc.) on a polymer material substrate (such as a substrate of polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyethylene, etc.).

[0060] As an example, the positive electrode active material 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 battery positive electrode active materials may also be used. These positive electrode active materials 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) 0.8 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 At least one of O2 and its modified compounds. Modified compounds refer to substances obtained by modification methods such as doping or coating based on the above-mentioned substances.

[0061] In some embodiments, the negative electrode can be a negative electrode sheet, which may include a negative electrode current collector.

[0062] As an example, the negative electrode current collector can be a metal foil, a conductive polymer material, a carbon material, or a composite current collector. For example, as a metal foil, pure metals, alloys, or surface-treated metals can be used, including but not limited to stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, titanium, or silver. The composite current collector may include a polymer material substrate and a metal layer. The composite current collector can be formed by forming a metal material (copper, copper alloys, nickel, nickel alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, silver, and silver alloys, etc.) on a polymer material substrate (such as a substrate of polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyethylene, etc.).

[0063] As an example, the negative electrode sheet may include a negative electrode current collector and a negative electrode active material disposed on at least one surface of the negative electrode current collector.

[0064] As an example, the negative electrode current collector has two surfaces opposite each other in its own thickness direction, and the negative electrode active material is disposed on either or both of the two opposite surfaces of the negative electrode current collector.

[0065] As an example, the negative electrode active material may be a negative electrode active material known in the art for use in battery cells. As an example, the negative electrode active material 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 materials for battery cells may also be used. These negative electrode active materials may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0066] In some embodiments, the negative electrode can be a foamed metal. The foamed metal can be foamed nickel, foamed copper, foamed aluminum, foamed alloy, or foamed carbon, etc. When foamed metal is used as the negative electrode sheet, the surface of the foamed metal may or may not have a negative electrode active material.

[0067] As an example, negative electrode active materials can be filled or / and deposited within the negative electrode current collector.

[0068] In some embodiments, the positive current collector can be made of aluminum, and the negative current collector can be made of copper.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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 single component located between the positive and negative electrodes, or it can be attached to the surfaces of the positive and negative electrodes. An inorganic particle coating, an organic particle coating, or an organic / inorganic composite coating can also be applied to the surface of the separator.

[0071] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes an electrolyte, which is housed within the casing of the battery cell. The electrolyte serves to conduct active 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.

[0072] Liquid electrolytes include electrolyte salts and solvents.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] In some embodiments, the electrolyte may optionally include additives. For example, additives may include negative electrode film-forming additives, positive electrode film-forming additives, and additives that can improve certain properties of the battery cell, such as additives that improve the overcharge / fast charge performance of the battery cell, additives that improve the high-temperature performance of the battery cell, and additives that improve the low-temperature performance of the battery cell.

[0076] The gel electrolyte includes a polymer as a backbone network and can be used in conjunction with an ionic liquid-lithium salt.

[0077] Solid electrolytes include polymer solid electrolytes, inorganic solid electrolytes, and composite solid electrolytes.

[0078] As an example, the polymers of polymeric solid electrolytes may include polyethers (polyoxyethylene), polysiloxanes, polycarbonates, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene fluoride, polymethyl methacrylate, monoionic polymers, polyionic liquids, cellulose, etc.

[0079] 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 phosphorus sulfide, silver sulfide germanium ore), amorphous sulfides), halide solid electrolytes, nitride solid electrolytes, and hydride solid electrolytes.

[0080] As an example, composite solid electrolytes are formed by adding inorganic solid electrolyte fillers to polymer solid electrolytes.

[0081] The electrode assembly can be a wound structure, a stacked structure, or a hybrid structure of wound and stacked.

[0082] In some implementations, the electrode assembly is a wound structure. The positive and negative electrode sheets are wound into a wound structure.

[0083] In some implementations, the electrode assembly is a stacked structure.

[0084] As an example, multiple positive and negative electrodes can be set, and multiple positive and multiple negative electrodes can be stacked alternately.

[0085] As an example, multiple positive electrode plates can be provided, and negative electrode plates can be folded to form multiple stacked folded segments, with a positive electrode plate sandwiched between adjacent folded segments.

[0086] As an example, both the positive and negative electrode plates are folded to form multiple stacked folded segments.

[0087] As an example, multiple separators can be provided, each positioned between any adjacent positive or negative electrode plates.

[0088] As an example, the separators can be continuously arranged, either by folding or rolling between any adjacent positive or negative electrode plates.

[0089] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly can be cylindrical, flat, or polygonal, etc.

[0090] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly is provided with tabs that allow current to be drawn from the electrode assembly. The tabs include a positive tab and a negative tab.

[0091] In some embodiments, the battery cell may include a casing. The casing may be a steel casing, an aluminum casing, a plastic casing (such as a polypropylene casing), a composite metal casing (such as a copper-aluminum composite casing), or an aluminum-plastic film, etc. In some embodiments, the casing may be a sealed structure or a non-sealed structure. As an example, when the casing is a non-sealed structure, the casing serves to protect the electrode assembly, and a sealing bag is included between the casing and the electrode assembly to encapsulate the electrode assembly and electrolyte. Specifically, the sealing bag may be a bag-shaped insulating component or an aluminum-plastic film. When the casing is a sealed structure, it is used to encapsulate components such as the electrode assembly and electrolyte.

[0092] As an example, the 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. This disclosure does not impose any particular limitations.

[0093] In some embodiments, the housing includes an end cap and a housing, the housing having an opening, and the end cap covering the opening. The housing may have one or more openings. The end cap may also have one or more.

[0094] In some embodiments, at least one electrode terminal is provided on the housing, and the electrode terminal is electrically connected to the tab. The electrode terminal can be directly connected to the tab, or it can be indirectly connected to the tab through a current collector. The electrode terminal can be provided on the end cap or on the housing.

[0095] In some embodiments, a pressure relief mechanism is provided on the casing. The pressure relief mechanism is used to release the internal gas of the battery cell.

[0096] As an example, the internal pressure or temperature of a battery cell is actuated to release the internal pressure or temperature when it reaches a predetermined threshold. When the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell reaches the predetermined threshold, the pressure relief mechanism is activated or a weak structure in the pressure relief mechanism is broken, thereby creating an opening or channel for the internal pressure or temperature to be released. The threshold design varies depending on the design requirements. The threshold may depend on the materials of one or more of the positive electrode, negative electrode, electrolyte, and separator in the battery cell.

[0097] In some embodiments, a battery cell assembly is typically formed by arranging multiple battery cells.

[0098] The battery device 100 mentioned in the embodiments of this disclosure may include one or more battery cell assemblies for providing voltage and capacity.

[0099] As an example, a battery cell assembly can be a battery module, which is formed by arranging and fixing multiple battery cells together to form an independent module. As another example, a battery module can be formed by bundling multiple battery cells together with cable ties.

[0100] In some embodiments, the battery device 100 may be a battery pack, which includes a housing and one or more individual battery cell assemblies housed within the housing.

[0101] As an example, the battery cell assembly can be a battery module, which can be housed in a housing by fixing the battery module in the housing.

[0102] As an example, battery cell assemblies can also be housed in a housing by directly fixing multiple battery cells to the housing.

[0103] As an example, the enclosure may include a first enclosure and a second enclosure. The first enclosure and the second enclosure are fastened together to form a closed space inside the enclosure to house the individual battery cells. Here, "closed" refers to covering or closing, and can be either sealed or unsealed. The first enclosure may be a top cover or a bottom plate.

[0104] As an example, the enclosure may include a top cover, a frame, and a bottom plate. The top cover and bottom plate are connected to the frame, creating an enclosed space inside the enclosure to house the individual battery cells.

[0105] Please refer to Figures 5 to 8. This disclosure provides an electrical device, including a battery cell and a thermal management system 400 in any embodiment of this disclosure. The battery cell is used to store or provide electrical energy.

[0106] Electrical equipment includes, but is not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, electric toys, power tools, vehicles, ships, or spacecraft. Vehicles can include electric vehicles and electric cars, electric toys can include electric vehicles and electric cars, etc., and there are stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Spacecraft can include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc.

[0107] Referring to Figure 9, this disclosure provides an energy storage device, including a cabinet 210, at least two battery devices 100, and a thermal management system according to any embodiment of this disclosure. Each battery device 100 includes a single battery cell, the cabinet 210 has a battery compartment, and the battery device 100 is housed within the battery compartment; the thermal management system is used to regulate the temperature of the single battery cell.

[0108] The cabinet 210 can provide protection for the battery device. The shape of the cabinet 210 is not limited; for example, the cabinet 210 can be hexahedral, such as cuboid or cube, etc.

[0109] At least two battery devices 100 can form a battery cluster, and the energy storage device includes one or more battery clusters to increase the voltage and capacity of the energy storage device. Multiple battery devices 100 are connected in series via a busbar to increase the voltage of the energy storage device. When the energy storage device includes multiple battery clusters, the multiple battery clusters are connected in parallel to increase the capacity of the energy storage device.

[0110] Energy storage devices can be used in energy storage power stations, wind power generation systems, solar power generation systems, mobile power systems, or temporary power supply systems. Energy storage devices can store electrical energy as needed and output it when appropriate. For example, energy storage devices can store electrical energy during off-peak hours and provide power to relevant users or electrical equipment during peak hours. The energy storage system provided in this disclosure embodiment can be any power system that requires energy storage devices.

[0111] In some embodiments, the energy storage device is an energy storage container or an energy storage cabinet.

[0112] In some embodiments, the energy storage device may include modules such as a main control module, a central control module, a power distribution module, and a fire protection module.

[0113] As an example, the main control module can act as the battery management unit for the battery cluster, configured to monitor and manage the battery cluster. The main control module can monitor information such as the current, voltage, power, or temperature of the battery cluster. For instance, it can control the charging and discharging current and voltage of the battery cluster. The main control module includes modules such as an auxiliary battery management unit (SBMU) and a fusion switch.

[0114] As an example, the central control module can serve as the battery management unit for an energy storage device, configured to monitor and manage the device. The central control module can monitor information such as the device's current, voltage, power, state of charge, or temperature. For instance, it can control the charging and discharging current and voltage of the energy storage device. As an example, the central control module includes modules such as an Insulation Monitoring Module (IMM), a Master Battery Management Unit (MBMU), an Ethernet (ETH) module, and a fiber optic conversion module.

[0115] As an example, the fire protection module includes a control panel, detectors, alarm devices, etc., and is configured to detect, alarm, or extinguish fires in energy storage devices.

[0116] As an example, the power distribution module can be configured to distribute power to the power supply module of the energy storage device.

[0117] Please refer to Figure 1. An example of an embodiment of this disclosure using a vehicle 1000 as the electrical device will be described below. The description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0118] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a vehicle 1000 provided in some embodiments of this disclosure. The vehicle 1000 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. As shown in Figure 1, a battery device 100 is disposed inside the vehicle 1000. The battery device 100 can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 1000. The battery device 100 can be used to power the vehicle 1000; for example, the battery device 100 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000. The vehicle 1000 may also include a controller 200 and a motor 300. The controller 200 is used to control the battery device 100 to supply power to the motor 300, for example, to meet the power requirements of the vehicle 1000 during starting, navigation, and driving.

[0119] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery device 100 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0120] In related technologies, to dissipate heat from the electronic components of the control module, fans and ventilation holes are typically installed on the side walls of the control device's housing, and fins are installed on the control module to increase the heat dissipation area. The fan's rotation causes airflow between the inside of the housing and the external environment to achieve heat dissipation. However, this fan-and-fin air-cooling method has low heat dissipation efficiency and is greatly affected by ambient temperature. Especially in high-temperature environments, the control device dissipates a large amount of heat, but the high ambient temperature reduces the heat dissipation effect, causing the operating temperature of the electronic components in the control module to rise continuously or the thermal equilibrium temperature to become too high, affecting the lifespan of the electronic components. Furthermore, the fan and fins occupy a large space inside the housing, and the fan's short lifespan leads to frequent fan replacements and high maintenance costs.

[0121] In view of this, the present disclosure provides a thermal management system, which includes a control device, a refrigerant unit, and a heat exchanger unit. The refrigerant unit includes a refrigerant flow path for circulating refrigerant, and the heat exchanger unit includes a heat exchange flow path for circulating heat exchange fluid. The heat exchange fluid in the heat exchange flow path can exchange heat with the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path. The control device includes a housing, a control module, and a heat exchange structure. The housing forms a placement cavity and an assembly port, and the assembly port is connected to the placement cavity. The control module is disposed in the placement cavity and configured to control the operation of the thermal management system. The heat exchange structure closes the assembly port and includes a fluid channel that is connected to the heat exchange flow path, which is used for heat exchange with individual battery cells.

[0122] The thermal management system provided in this embodiment allows the heat exchange fluid to flow through a fluid channel, facilitating heat exchange between the heat exchange fluid and the control module to cool or heat the control module. Compared to air, the heat exchange fluid has a larger heat capacity, better long-term temperature stability, higher reliability, and longer lifespan. The temperature difference between the heat exchange fluid and the control module is greater than the temperature difference between ambient air and the control module, resulting in better heat exchange. The heat exchange fluid can meet the heat dissipation and heating requirements of the control module. This eliminates the need for fans and ventilation holes on the side walls of the housing, improving its waterproof and dustproof performance. It also eliminates the need for heat dissipation fins within the housing, saving space. The heat exchange structure has a closed assembly port, minimizing its footprint in the placement cavity. Furthermore, the heat exchange structure not only provides heat exchange but also replaces part of the housing wall, achieving multiple functions and reducing costs.

[0123] The control device 1 and thermal management system 400 provided in the embodiments of this disclosure are further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Please refer to Figures 2 to 8. The control device 1 is used in the thermal management system 400.

[0124] The thermal management system 400 is used to regulate the temperature of the battery cells. In other words, the thermal management system 400 exchanges heat with the battery cells through a heat exchange fluid to cool or heat the battery cells.

[0125] Please refer to Figures 2 to 8. This disclosure provides a thermal management system 400, which includes a refrigerant unit 2, a heat exchange unit 3, and a control device 1 in any embodiment of this disclosure. The refrigerant unit 2 includes a refrigerant flow path 2a for circulating refrigerant, and the heat exchange unit 3 includes a heat exchange flow path 3a for circulating heat exchange fluid. The heat exchange fluid in the heat exchange flow path 3a can exchange heat with the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 2a.

[0126] Refrigerant is a flowable fluid. It can be a fluid that easily absorbs heat to become a gas and easily releases heat to become a liquid. Refrigerant can undergo phase changes after absorbing or releasing heat. For example, refrigerants include, but are not limited to, fluorides (such as HFC refrigerants) or HC hydrocarbon refrigerants, etc.

[0127] The refrigerant can circulate in the refrigerant flow path 2a, and the heat exchange fluid can circulate in the heat exchange flow path 3a. The thermal management system 400 uses the refrigerant and the heat exchange fluid as intermediate media to regulate the temperature of the battery cells. For example, by using the refrigerant and the heat exchange fluid as intermediate media, the heat of the battery cells can be released to the ambient air or the heat of the ambient air can be transferred to the battery cells.

[0128] Please refer to Figures 2 to 4. The control device 1 includes a housing 11, a control module 12, and a heat exchange structure 13. The housing 11 forms a placement cavity 11b and an assembly port 11a, which communicates with the placement cavity 11b. The control module 12 is disposed within the placement cavity 11b. The heat exchange structure 13 closes the assembly port 11a and includes a fluid channel 13a, which communicates with the heat exchange flow path 3a of the thermal management system 400. The heat exchange flow path 3a is used to circulate heat exchange fluid and to exchange heat with the battery cells.

[0129] The control module 12 is housed within the placement cavity 11b. The housing 11 protects the control module 12 from contact with external objects.

[0130] The control module 12 is configured to control the operation of the thermal management system 400. Specifically, the control module 12 has a control circuit structure and can be configured to control the operation of at least one electronically controlled device in the thermal management system 400. The electronically controlled device is a device whose operation is controlled by electrical signals.

[0131] The heat exchange structure 13 closes the assembly port 11a. That is, the heat exchange structure 13 is disposed on the housing 11, and the heat exchange structure 13 can replace part of the wall surface of the housing 11.

[0132] Heat exchange flow path 3a is used to circulate heat exchange fluid and exchange heat with the battery cells. Heat exchange flow path 3a refers to the flow path of the heat exchange fluid, which can exchange heat with the battery cells to regulate their temperature. The heat exchange unit 3 is used to regulate the temperature of the battery cells and control module 12. The structure of the heat exchange unit 3 is simpler than that of the refrigerant unit 2, reducing the complexity of the piping layout.

[0133] The fluid channel 13a is connected to the heat exchange flow path 3a, so that the heat exchange fluid in the heat exchange flow path 3a can flow through the fluid channel 13a, so that the heat exchange fluid can exchange heat with the control module 12, thereby cooling or heating the control module 12.

[0134] For example, when the control module 12 is running, the battery cells are in a working state. During charging and discharging, the battery cells typically require heat dissipation. When heat dissipation is needed, heat exchange fluid flows through heat exchange path 3a, and this heat exchange fluid also flows through fluid channel 13a. In this way, the heat exchange fluid can absorb the heat generated by the battery cells and the control module 12, achieving the purpose of heat dissipation for both the battery cells and the control module 12. When the battery cells are at a low ambient temperature, they need to be heated before entering a working state. In this case, the control module 12 also needs to be heated to start. Therefore, when heating is needed, heat exchange fluid flows through heat exchange path 3a, and this heat exchange fluid also flows through fluid channel 13a. In this way, the heat exchange fluid can release heat to the battery cells and the control module 12, achieving the purpose of heating both the battery cells and the control module 12. In other words, the heating or heat dissipation needs of the battery cells and the control module 12 are generally consistent, and the heat exchange fluid can meet these needs. The above are merely examples; those skilled in the art can understand the specific control modes of the thermal management system 400 based on the above examples, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0135] It is understandable that heat exchange can occur when there is a temperature difference between the heat exchange fluid and the battery cell, and heat exchange can also occur when there is a temperature difference between the heat exchange fluid and the control module 12.

[0136] The thermal management system 400 provided in this embodiment allows the heat exchange fluid of the heat exchange flow path 3a to flow through the fluid channel 13a, facilitating heat exchange between the heat exchange fluid and the control module 12 to cool or heat the control module 12. Compared to air, the heat exchange fluid has a larger heat capacity, better long-term temperature stability control, higher reliability, and longer lifespan. The temperature difference between the heat exchange fluid and the control module 12 is greater than the temperature difference between the ambient air and the control module 12, resulting in better heat exchange. The heat exchange fluid can meet the heat dissipation and heating requirements of the control module 12. This eliminates the need for fans and ventilation holes on the side walls of the housing 11, improving the waterproof and dustproof performance of the housing 11. It also eliminates the need for heat dissipation fins inside the housing 11, saving space. The heat exchange structure 13 encloses the assembly port 11a, minimizing its footprint in the placement cavity 11b. The heat exchange structure 13 not only provides heat exchange but also replaces part of the wall surface of the housing 11, achieving multiple uses and reducing costs.

[0137] The heat exchange fluid is a flowable fluid used to absorb or release heat to heat or dissipate heat from the battery cells and control module 12. The heat exchange fluid can remain in a liquid state after absorbing or releasing heat; that is, it can maintain its phase unchanged. Examples of heat exchange fluids include, but are not limited to, pure water or aqueous ethylene glycol solutions.

[0138] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 5 to 8. The refrigerant unit 2 includes a first heat exchanger 21 and a second heat exchanger 22. Both the first heat exchanger 21 and the second heat exchanger 22 can be used to circulate refrigerant. The heat exchange flow path 3a can exchange heat with the first heat exchanger 21.

[0139] Both the first heat exchanger 21 and the second heat exchanger 22 are devices used for heat exchange between the refrigerant and other fluids. One of the first heat exchanger 21 and the second heat exchanger 22 is a condenser, and the other of the first heat exchanger 21 and the second heat exchanger 22 is an evaporator.

[0140] The condenser releases heat, causing the refrigerant to change from a gaseous state to a liquid state. The evaporator absorbs heat, causing the refrigerant to change from a liquid state to a gaseous state.

[0141] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 5 to 8. The refrigerant unit 2 includes a compressor 23 and a throttling device 24. The compressor 23, the first heat exchanger 21, the throttling device 24 and the second heat exchanger 22 are connected by a pipe to form a refrigerant flow path 2a.

[0142] The working principle of refrigerant unit 2 is as follows: Compressor 23 draws in low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and compresses it into high-pressure output; the discharged high-pressure refrigerant enters the condenser, where it transfers heat to other fluids to condense into a high-pressure liquid; the high-pressure liquid refrigerant flows through throttling device 24 to reduce pressure, becoming a low-pressure, low-temperature gas-liquid two-phase mixture that enters the evaporator; the refrigerant in the evaporator absorbs heat from other fluids and becomes low-pressure gas; the low-pressure gaseous refrigerant is then drawn back into compressor 23; this cycle repeats continuously, achieving heat exchange. It is understood that the other fluids here include ambient air and the heat exchange fluid.

[0143] In some embodiments, the thermal management system 400 may include at least a cooling mode and a heating mode; in the cooling mode, the first heat exchanger 21 is an evaporator and the second heat exchanger 22 is a condenser; in the heating mode, the first heat exchanger 21 is a condenser and the second heat exchanger 22 is an evaporator.

[0144] Cooling mode refers to the mode that cools down the battery cells and control module 12, while heating mode refers to the mode that heats up the battery cells and control module 12.

[0145] In cooling mode, the heat exchange fluid absorbs heat from the battery cells and control module 12 to reduce their temperature. The heat exchange fluid flows through the first heat exchanger 21 and releases heat to the refrigerant. The compressor 23 draws in low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and compresses it into high pressure before discharging. The discharged high-pressure refrigerant enters the second heat exchanger 22, where it releases heat to the ambient air and condenses into a high-pressure liquid. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant flows through the throttling device 24 and is reduced in pressure, becoming a low-pressure, low-temperature gas-liquid two-phase mixture that enters the first heat exchanger 21. The refrigerant in the first heat exchanger 21 absorbs heat from the heat exchange fluid again and becomes low-pressure gas. The low-pressure gaseous refrigerant is then drawn in by the compressor 23 again. This cycle repeats, achieving cooling of the battery cells and heat dissipation of the control module 12.

[0146] In heating mode, the heat exchange fluid flows through the first heat exchanger 21 to absorb heat from the refrigerant and then releases the heat to the battery cells and control module 12 to raise their temperature. The compressor 23 draws in low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and compresses it into high-pressure refrigerant before discharging it. The discharged high-pressure refrigerant enters the first heat exchanger 21, where it transfers heat to the heat exchange fluid to condense into high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant flows through the throttling device 24 to reduce pressure and becomes a low-pressure, low-temperature gas-liquid two-phase mixture that enters the second heat exchanger 22. The refrigerant in the second heat exchanger 22 absorbs heat from the ambient air and becomes low-pressure gaseous refrigerant. The low-pressure gaseous refrigerant is then drawn back into the compressor 23, and this cycle repeats to heat the battery cells and control module 12.

[0147] In some embodiments, the refrigerant unit 2 may include a four-way valve disposed in the refrigerant flow path 2a, which can be used to change the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 2a.

[0148] As an example, the throttling device 24 includes, but is not limited to, an electronic expansion valve.

[0149] In some embodiments, the second heat exchanger 22 may include a refrigerant flow pipe and fins. The fins are disposed on the refrigerant flow pipe, which is used to flow refrigerant, and the fins are used to increase the heat exchange area of ​​the refrigerant flow pipe. That is, the second heat exchanger 22 may be a finned tube heat exchanger.

[0150] In some embodiments, the first heat exchanger 21 may include multiple stacked heat exchange plates, with adjacent heat exchange plates assembled to form a hollow channel. Part of the hollow channel serves as a refrigerant channel for refrigerant flow, while the other part serves as a heat exchange channel for heat exchange fluid flow. In other words, the first heat exchanger 21 can be a plate heat exchanger. Heat conduction between the refrigerant in the refrigerant channel and the heat exchange fluid in the heat exchange channel can occur through the heat exchange plates.

[0151] The manufacturing method of the heat exchange fins is not limited. The heat exchange fins can be made of metal material pressed into a plate-like structure with grooves. The grooves of two heat exchange fins are spliced ​​together to form a hollow channel. The heat exchange fins can be fastened together with screws or bolts.

[0152] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 5 to 8, the heat exchange unit 3 includes a power pump 31, which is disposed in the heat exchange flow path 3a to drive the flow of the heat exchange fluid. The power pump 31 is a device capable of providing power to drive the flow of the heat exchange fluid.

[0153] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 5 to 8, the heat exchange unit 3 includes a heat exchange plate 32, which is thermally connected to the battery cells. As an example, the battery cells can be bonded to the heat exchange plate 32 using thermally conductive adhesive. The heat exchange fluid within the heat exchange plate 32 exchanges heat with the battery cells through the heat exchange plate 32 and the thermally conductive adhesive.

[0154] As an example, the heat exchange plate 32 has internal channels for the flow of heat exchange fluid, which are part of the heat exchange flow path 3a. For example, the flow path of the heat exchange plate 32, the heat exchange channel of the first heat exchanger 21, and the inlet and outlet of the power pump 31 can be connected in sequence by a pipe. The flow path of the heat exchange plate 32, the heat exchange channel of the first heat exchanger 21, and the power pump 31 can constitute the heat exchange flow path 3a.

[0155] It is understood that there is a temperature difference between the heat exchange fluid within the heat exchange plate 32 and the battery cell to achieve heat exchange. The heat transfer method between the heat exchange plate 32 and the battery cell is not limited; for example, the heat transfer methods include, but are not limited to, heat conduction and / or heat radiation, etc.

[0156] In some embodiments, the heat exchange plate 32 may be part of the housing of the battery device 100. For example, the heat exchange plate 32 may serve as the bottom plate of the housing of the battery device 100.

[0157] In some embodiments, the fluid channel 13a can be connected in series with the heat exchange flow path 3a. That is, the heat exchange fluid flows through the heat exchange flow path 3a and the fluid channel 13a in sequence, and the heat exchange fluid does not need to be split.

[0158] The location of the fluid channel 13a connected in series with the heat exchange flow path 3a is not limited. For example, referring to Figure 6, in some embodiments, the fluid channel 13a can be connected in series with the pipe in the heat exchange flow path 3a located between the heat exchange plate 32 and the first heat exchanger 21. In some embodiments, referring to Figure 5, the fluid channel 13a can be connected in series with the pipe in the heat exchange flow path 3a located between the first heat exchanger 21 and the power pump 31. In some embodiments, referring to Figure 7, the fluid channel 13a can be connected in series with the pipe in the heat exchange flow path 3a located between the power pump 31 and the heat exchange plate 32.

[0159] In some embodiments, the fluid channel 13a may be connected in parallel with the heat exchange flow path 3a. That is, the heat exchange fluid splits into two streams at the location of the fluid channel 13a, one of which continues to flow along the heat exchange flow path 3a, while the other stream enters the fluid channel 13a, and the other heat exchange fluid flows out of the fluid channel 13a and then merges back into the heat exchange flow path 3a.

[0160] The location where the fluid channel 13a is connected in parallel with the heat exchange flow path 3a is not limited. For example, please refer to Figure 8. In some embodiments, the fluid channel 13a can be connected in parallel with the flow channel of the heat exchange plate 32. That is, the two ends of the fluid channel 13a can be connected to the two ends of the flow channel of the heat exchange plate 32, respectively.

[0161] In some embodiments, the heat exchange structure 13 can seal the assembly port 11a. This can improve the sealing performance of the housing 11.

[0162] The connection method between the heat exchange structure 13 and the housing 11 is not limited. For example, the heat exchange structure 13 and the housing 11 can be non-detachably connected or detachably linked.

[0163] Non-detachable connections include, but are not limited to, bonding or welding.

[0164] The specific type of welding is not limited. For example, welding includes, but is not limited to, laser welding, friction welding, or brazing.

[0165] Detachable connections include, but are not limited to, snap-fit, screw connections, or bolt connections.

[0166] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 2 to 4. The heat exchange structure 13 includes a heat spreader 131 and a heat exchange tube 132. The heat spreader 131 closes the assembly port 11a, and the heat exchange tube 132 is disposed on the heat spreader 131. The heat exchange tube 132 forms a fluid channel 13a, or the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131 together define the fluid channel 13a.

[0167] Please refer to Figure 4. The formation of fluid channel 13a by heat exchange tube 132 means that heat exchange tube 132 independently encloses fluid channel 13a without needing to cooperate with other structural components. In this way, heat exchange tube 132 has good sealing performance and reduces the assembly difficulty between heat exchange tube 132 and heat spreader 131.

[0168] The heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131 jointly define the fluid channel 13a, meaning that the surfaces of the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131 together enclose the fluid channel 13a. In this way, the heat spreader 131 is in contact with the refrigerant, which facilitates the rapid transfer of heat from the heat spreader 131 to the refrigerant.

[0169] In this embodiment, the heat exchange plate 131 can balance the temperature difference and increase the heat exchange area. The heat exchange plate 131 can not only quickly transfer heat to the refrigerant, but also transfer some heat to the ambient air. In this way, the heat exchange structure 13 is not limited to heat exchange on the surface of the heat exchange tube 132, and has the advantages of strong heat dissipation capacity, small arrangement space, low cost and high reliability.

[0170] The heat spreader 131 and the housing 11 can be detachably or non-detachably connected.

[0171] In some embodiments, the heat spreader 131 can seal the assembly port 11a, which improves the dustproof and waterproof performance of the housing 11.

[0172] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 2 through 4, the heat exchange tube 132 extends in a curved manner along the outer surface of the heat spreader 131. Exemplarily, the heat exchange tube 132 can be manufactured into a curved pipe by a bending process.

[0173] In this embodiment, the heat exchange tube 132 is disposed on the outer surface of the heat spreader 131. The heat exchange tube 132 can exchange heat with the ambient air, improving the heat exchange effect, and also avoiding the heat exchange tube 132 occupying space inside the housing 11. The heat exchange tube 132 bends and extends along the outer surface of the heat spreader 131, which not only effectively increases the length of the heat exchange tube 132 and the contact area with the heat spreader 131, thereby extending the heat exchange time of the refrigerant and increasing the heat exchange capacity, but also allows for free arrangement according to the spatial layout of the control module 12, and can be compatible with the heat dissipation requirements of various spatially arranged electronic components.

[0174] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 2 to 4. The heat exchange plate 131 includes a first heat exchange section 1311, a second heat exchange section 1312, and a connecting section 1313. The first heat exchange section 1311 and the second heat exchange section 1312 are both perpendicular to the first direction X. The height of the first heat exchange section 1311 in the first direction X is higher than the height of the second heat exchange section 1312. The connecting section 1313 connects the first heat exchange section 1311 and the second heat exchange section 1312. The heat exchange tube 132 is disposed in at least one of the first heat exchange section 1311, the connecting section 1313, and the second heat exchange section 1312.

[0175] The height of the first heat-spreading section 1311 in the first direction X is greater than the height of the second heat-spreading section 1312, meaning that the distance between the first heat-spreading section 1311 and the second heat-spreading section 1312 in the first direction X is greater than zero.

[0176] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube 132 is disposed in one of the first heat distribution section 1311, the connecting section 1313, and the second heat distribution section 1312. For example, the heat exchange tube 132 is distributed in the first heat distribution section 1311. As another example, the heat exchange tube 132 is distributed in the second heat distribution section 1312.

[0177] In some embodiments, heat exchange tubes 132 are disposed in two of the first heat-spreading section 1311, the connecting section 1313, and the second heat-spreading section 1312. For example, heat exchange tubes 132 are distributed in both the first heat-spreading section 1311 and the connecting section 1313.

[0178] In some embodiments, heat exchange tubes 132 are disposed in three of the first heat-spreading section 1311, the connecting section 1313, and the second heat-spreading section 1312. That is, heat exchange tubes 132 are distributed in all three of the first heat-spreading section 1311, the connecting section 1313, and the second heat-spreading section 1312.

[0179] In this embodiment, the first heat-spreading section 1311 and the second heat-spreading section 1312 have a height difference in the first direction X. The heat-spreading plate 131 is roughly Z-shaped. Without significantly increasing the installation space occupied by the control device 1, the area of ​​the heat-spreading plate 131 can be increased by utilizing the spatial shape of the heat-spreading plate 131, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency.

[0180] In some embodiments, referring to FIG4, the first heat spreader 1311 may have a generally flat plate structure. The first heat spreader 1311 has a simple shape and is easy to manufacture.

[0181] A flat plate structure refers to a structure in which the two surfaces along the thickness direction are approximately planar.

[0182] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the connecting portion 1313 may have a generally flat plate structure. For example, the connecting portion 1313 may be generally parallel to the first direction X. The connecting portion 1313 has a simple shape and is easy to manufacture.

[0183] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the second heat dissipation section 1312 may have a generally flat plate structure. The second heat dissipation section 1312 has a simple shape and is easy to manufacture.

[0184] In some embodiments, the heat spreader 131 can be a one-piece molded structure. That is, the heat spreader 131 can be manufactured using a one-piece molding process. For example, the heat spreader 131 can be formed using sheet metal processing or casting processes, etc.

[0185] In some embodiments, the heat spreader 131 may be made of a material with good heat transfer performance. For example, the heat spreader 131 may be made of a metal material or a non-metal material with a high thermal conductivity, such as stainless steel, copper, aluminum alloy and / or aluminum.

[0186] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 2 to 4. The heat exchange tube 132 includes a first heat exchange section 1321, a second heat exchange section 1322, and a transition section 1323. The first heat exchange section 1321 is disposed on the outer surface of the first heat equalization section 1311, the second heat exchange section 1322 is disposed on the outer surface of the second heat equalization section 1312, and the transition section 1323 is disposed on the outer surface of the connecting section 1313 and connects the first heat exchange section 1321 and the second heat exchange section 1322.

[0187] In this embodiment, heat exchange tubes 132 are distributed on the outer surfaces of the first heat exchange portion 1311, the connecting portion 1313, and the second heat exchange portion 1312. The heat exchange tubes 132 can be arranged in three-dimensional space, which can improve the maintenance convenience of the heat exchange structure 13. The length of the heat exchange tubes 132 can be relatively long, and the contact area between the heat exchange tubes 132 and the heat exchange plate 131 can be relatively large, which can also improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0188] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube 132 includes at least two straight tubes and at least two bends. A portion of the straight tubes extends along a first direction X, a portion extends along a second direction, and a portion extends along a third direction. The straight tubes are connected by bends to form a curved heat exchange tube 132. The second and third directions intersect, and both are perpendicular to the first direction X. With this design, the heat exchange tube 132 can be arranged as a continuously extending pipe in a three-dimensional configuration.

[0189] In some embodiments, the straight tubes and bends can be manufactured separately and then assembled into heat exchange tube 132. For example, they can be connected by welding, bonding or joints.

[0190] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the heat exchange tube 132 can be a one-piece molded structure. That is, the heat exchange tube 132 can be manufactured using a one-piece molding process; for example, straight tubes and bent tubes can be manufactured using a one-piece molding process. In this way, the assembly process of the heat exchange tube 132 can be reduced, and the heat exchange tube 132 can also have good sealing performance.

[0191] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 2 to 4. The heat exchange tube 132 can be an integrally formed pipe. The first and last ends of the heat exchange tube 132 can have through holes. Two plugs 136 can respectively seal the two through holes of the heat exchange tube 132.

[0192] The specific type of one-piece molding process is not limited, and it can be manufactured using extrusion processes or other methods depending on the material of the heat exchange tube 132.

[0193] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube 132 may be made of a material with good heat transfer performance. For example, the heat exchange tube 132 may be made of a metal material or a non-metal material with high thermal conductivity, such as stainless steel, copper, aluminum alloy and / or aluminum.

[0194] It is understandable that the heat exchange tube 132 may be made of the same material or a different material as the heat spreader 131.

[0195] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2 to 4, the heat exchange tube 132 is a flat tube. A flat tube refers to a tube whose cross-sectional shape in one direction is larger than its dimensions in other directions. The shape of the cross-sectional shape of a flat tube includes, but is not limited to, elliptical or rectangular shapes. In this way, the heat exchange tube 132 occupies a small space, but the heat exchange area between the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131 is large.

[0196] The flow cross-section of the flat tube is the surface perpendicular to the flow velocity cluster, such as the heat exchange fluid, and also refers to the cross-section of the fluid channel 13a.

[0197] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube 132 contacts the heat spreader 131. That is, the surface of the heat exchange tube 132 is in direct contact with the surface of the heat spreader 131. In this way, the heat spreader 131 can directly conduct heat to the heat exchange tube 132.

[0198] As an example, the heat exchange tube 132 can be welded to the heat spreader 131. No heat-conducting element 133 is provided between the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131.

[0199] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the heat exchange structure 13 includes a heat-conducting element 133, which is disposed between the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131. That is, the surface of the heat exchange tube 132 and the surface of the heat spreader 131 are not in direct contact, and heat is conducted between the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131 through the heat-conducting element 133.

[0200] As an example, the heat-conducting component 133 can be a thermally conductive adhesive. The thermally conductive adhesive can both bond the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131, and also play a role in heat conduction.

[0201] As an example, the heat-conducting component 133 can be a heat-conducting pad. The heat-conducting pad can be a separate component, that is, the heat-conducting pad can be manufactured separately and then assembled between the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131.

[0202] In this embodiment, the thermal resistance of the heat exchange interface between the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131 is minimized by using the heat conduction element 133, so that heat can be transferred between the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat spreader 131 in the form of thermal conduction.

[0203] The method of fixing the thermal pad is not limited. The thermal pad can be fixed to the heat exchange plate 131 by glue or buckles, or the thermal pad can be fixed by the clamping force between the heat exchange tube 132 and the heat exchange plate 131.

[0204] The heat-conducting component 133 can be made of a material with good heat transfer performance. For example, the heat-conducting component 133 can be made of a metal material or a non-metal material with a high thermal conductivity, such as stainless steel, copper, aluminum alloy and / or aluminum.

[0205] In some embodiments, the housing 11 has a sealing portion surrounding the assembly port 11a, and the heat exchange structure 13 and the sealing portion are sealed together. That is, the heat exchange structure 13 seals and closes the assembly port 11a. Exemplarily, the heat spreader 131 and the sealing portion are sealed together. In this way, impurities such as dust and sewage can be prevented from entering the placement cavity 11b through the assembly gap between the heat exchange structure 13 and the housing 11.

[0206] In some embodiments, the heat exchange structure 13 and the sealing portion are welded or bonded together. As an example, the heat spreader 131 is welded or bonded to the sealing portion. This achieves a sealed connection between the heat exchange structure 13, such as the heat spreader 131, and the sealing portion.

[0207] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the control device 1 includes a first seal 14, which is clamped between the heat spreader 131 and the sealing portion. The first seal 14 may be closed-loop in shape and surround the assembly opening 11a. Thus, the elastic deformation of the first seal 14 achieves a sealed connection between the heat spreader 131 and the sealing portion.

[0208] The material of the first seal 14 is not limited. For example, the first seal 14 can be made of a flexible material, which refers to a material that can undergo tensile deformation and / or bending deformation and can recover its deformation. For example, the first seal 14 can be made of silicone, rubber and / or foam, etc.

[0209] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 2 to 4. The heat exchange structure 13 includes a fluid inlet 134 and a fluid outlet 135, both of which are connected to the fluid channel 13a. The fluid inlet 134 and the fluid outlet 135 are both located outside the housing 11, and both the fluid inlet 134 and the fluid outlet 135 are connected to the heat exchange flow path 3a.

[0210] The fluid inlet 134 is used to introduce the heat exchange fluid of the heat exchange flow path 3a into the fluid channel 13a, and the fluid outlet 135 is used to discharge the heat exchange fluid in the fluid channel 13a to the heat exchange flow path 3a.

[0211] In this embodiment, both the fluid inlet 134 and the fluid outlet 135 are located outside the housing 11. This not only facilitates the connection of the fluid inlet 134 and the fluid outlet 135 with the heat exchange flow path 3a, but also minimizes the need to disassemble the housing 11 when maintaining the heat exchange structure 13, thus improving maintenance convenience.

[0212] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the control module 12 includes a first circuit board 121 and a second circuit board 122. Both the first circuit board 121 and the second circuit board 122 are perpendicular to a first direction X. The height of the first circuit board 121 in the first direction X is greater than the height of the second circuit board 122. Taking the plane perpendicular to the first direction X as the projection plane, the projection of the first circuit board 121 and the projection of the first heat dissipation part 1311 at least partially overlap, and the projection of the second circuit board 122 and the projection of the second heat dissipation part 1312 at least partially overlap.

[0213] The first circuit board 121 and the second circuit board 122 are separate from each other, that is, the first circuit board 121 and the second circuit board 122 are two separable boards.

[0214] In this embodiment, the height of the first circuit board 121 in the first direction X is higher than the height of the second circuit board 122. In this way, the first circuit board 121 and the second circuit board 122 can be arranged with different types of electronic components separately, realizing the partitioned arrangement of electronic components.

[0215] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the second circuit board 122 can be thermally connected to the second heat spreader 1312. That is, heat is mainly transferred between the second circuit board 122 and the second heat spreader 1312 through thermal conduction.

[0216] A heat transfer connection refers to two structural components that are in direct contact or indirectly connected through a heat-conducting structure, so that heat can be conducted between the two structural components.

[0217] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 2 to 4. The control module 12 includes a target device 123, which may be disposed on the first circuit board 121 or the second circuit board 122.

[0218] The target device 123 includes, but is not limited to, frequency converters, capacitors integrated on DC-DC converters, CPUs (Central Processing Units), switching components, IGBTs (Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistors), etc.

[0219] In this embodiment, the target device 123 is a device that generates a lot of heat during operation. The target device 123 is set on the first circuit board 121 or the second circuit board 122, which is beneficial for heat exchange.

[0220] The first circuit board 121 can house the target device 123 for low-voltage driving, and the second circuit board 122 can house the target device 123 for high-voltage driving. For example, the frequency converter, DC-DC converter, IGBT, switching components, and CPU can all be housed on the second circuit board 122. Resistors and other components in the control circuit can be housed on the first circuit board 121. With this arrangement, the target device 123 for low-voltage driving and the target device 123 for high-voltage driving are separately housed on the separate first circuit board 121 and second circuit board 122. This not only reduces signal interference but also facilitates the arrangement of the target device 123 within the limited space of the housing 11, meeting the miniaturization requirements of the control device 1.

[0221] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 5 and 6, the thermal management system 400 includes a fan 25 for driving airflow through a second heat exchanger 22. The fan 25 facilitates heat exchange between the refrigerant in the second heat exchanger 22 and the ambient air.

[0222] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 2 to 4. The box body 11 includes a box body 111 and a cover 112. The box body 111 forms an assembly port 11a and an installation port on two opposite sidewalls along the first direction X, respectively. The cover 112 seals and closes the installation port to jointly define the placement cavity 11b.

[0223] In some exemplary embodiments, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the control device 1 includes a second seal 15, which is sealed and clamped between the cover 112 and the box body 111. Thus, the elastic deformation of the second seal 15 achieves a sealed connection between the cover 112 and the box body 111.

[0224] The material of the second seal 15 is not limited. For example, the second seal 15 can be made of a flexible material, which refers to a material that can undergo tensile deformation and / or bending deformation and can recover its deformation. For example, the second seal 15 can be made of silicone, rubber and / or foam, etc.

[0225] The box body 111 and the cover 112 can be detachably connected. This facilitates the maintenance and repair of the control module 12. For example, the box body 111 and the cover 112 can be connected by at least one of the following methods: snap-fit, screw connection, and bolt connection.

[0226] In one specific embodiment, referring to Figures 2 to 5, the thermal management system 400 includes a control device 1, a refrigerant unit 2, and a heat exchange unit 3. The refrigerant unit 2 includes a refrigerant flow path 2a for circulating refrigerant. The heat exchange unit 3 includes a heat exchange flow path 3a for circulating heat exchange fluid, which can exchange heat with the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 2a. The control device 1 includes a housing 11, a control module 12, and a heat exchange structure 13. The housing 11 forms a placement cavity 11b and an assembly port 11a, which communicates with the placement cavity 11b. The heat exchange structure 13 includes a heat spreader 131 and heat exchange tubes 132. The heat spreader 131 seals and closes the assembly port 11a, and the heat exchange tubes 132 are disposed on the heat spreader 131 and extend along the outer surface of the heat spreader 131 in a curved manner. The control module 12 is disposed within the placement cavity 11b. The control module 12 includes a first circuit board 121, a second circuit board 122, and a target device 123. The target device 123 includes, but is not limited to, a frequency converter, a DC-DC converter, a CPU, switching components, and an IGBT. The frequency converter, DC-DC converter, IGBT, switching components, and CPU can all be disposed on the second circuit board 122. The second circuit board 122 can be heat-transfer connected to the second heat dissipation section 1312.

[0227] In this embodiment, the heat exchange tube 132 is disposed on the outer surface of the heat spreader 131. The heat exchange tube 132 can exchange heat with the ambient air, improving the heat exchange effect and avoiding the heat exchange tube 132 occupying space inside the housing 11. The heat exchange tube 132 bends and extends along the outer surface of the heat spreader 131, which not only effectively increases the length of the heat exchange tube 132 and the contact area with the heat spreader 131, thereby extending the heat exchange time of the refrigerant and increasing the heat exchange capacity, but also allows for free arrangement according to the spatial layout of the control module 12, and can be compatible with the heat dissipation requirements of various spatially arranged electronic components. The heat exchange unit 3 is used to regulate the temperature of the battery cells and the control module 12. The structure of the heat exchange unit 3 is simpler than that of the refrigerant unit 2, which can reduce the difficulty of pipeline layout.

[0228] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this disclosure, and are not intended to limit it. Although this disclosure has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in each embodiment can be combined in any way.

Claims

1. A thermal management system, comprising a control device, a refrigerant unit, and a heat exchanger unit, wherein the refrigerant unit includes a refrigerant flow path for flowing refrigerant, and the heat exchanger unit includes a heat exchange flow path for flowing heat exchange fluid, wherein the heat exchange fluid in the heat exchange flow path is capable of exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path, and the control device comprises: The box body forms a placement cavity and an assembly port, wherein the assembly port is connected to the placement cavity; A control module is disposed within the placement cavity, and the control module is configured to control the operation of the thermal management system; A heat exchange structure is provided to close the assembly port. The heat exchange structure includes a fluid channel that is connected to the heat exchange flow path, which is used for heat exchange with the battery cell.

2. The thermal management system according to claim 1, wherein, The heat exchange structure includes a heat spreader and heat exchange tubes. The heat spreader closes the assembly port, and the heat exchange tubes are disposed on the heat spreader. The heat exchange tubes form the fluid channel, or the heat exchange tubes and the heat spreader together define the fluid channel.

3. The thermal management system according to claim 2, wherein, The heat exchange tube extends and bends along the outer surface of the heat spreader.

4. The thermal management system according to claim 2, wherein, The heat exchange plate includes a first heat exchange section, a second heat exchange section, and a connecting section. The first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section are both perpendicular to a first direction. The height of the first heat exchange section in the first direction is higher than the height of the second heat exchange section. The connecting section connects the first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section. The heat exchange tube is disposed in at least one of the first heat exchange section, the connecting section, and the second heat exchange section.

5. The thermal management system according to claim 4, wherein, The heat exchange tube includes a first heat exchange section, a second heat exchange section, and a transition section. The first heat exchange section is disposed on the outer surface of the first heat equalization section, the second heat exchange section is disposed on the outer surface of the second heat equalization section, and the transition section is disposed on the outer surface of the connecting section and connects the first heat exchange section and the second heat exchange section.

6. The thermal management system according to claim 2, wherein, The heat exchange tube is in contact with the heat spreader plate.

7. The thermal management system according to claim 2, wherein, The heat exchange structure includes a heat-conducting element, which is disposed between the heat exchange tube and the heat spreader.

8. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The housing has a sealing portion surrounding the assembly port, and the heat exchange structure and the sealing portion are sealed together.

9. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The heat exchange structure includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, both of which are connected to the fluid channel. The fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are both located outside the housing and are connected to the heat exchange flow path.

10. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The refrigerant unit includes a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger, both of which can be used to circulate refrigerant. The heat exchange flow path can exchange heat with the first heat exchanger.

11. The thermal management system according to claim 10, wherein, The refrigerant unit includes a compressor and a throttling device. The compressor, the first heat exchanger, the throttling device, and the second heat exchanger are connected by a pipeline to form the refrigerant flow path.

12. The thermal management system according to claim 10, wherein, The second heat exchanger includes a refrigerant flow pipe and fins, the fins being disposed on the refrigerant flow pipe, which is used to flow refrigerant.

13. The thermal management system according to claim 10, wherein, The first heat exchanger includes a plurality of stacked heat exchange plates, with two adjacent heat exchange plates assembled to form a hollow channel, wherein part of the hollow channel is a refrigerant channel for flowing refrigerant, and the other part of the hollow channel is a heat exchange channel for flowing heat exchange fluid.

14. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The refrigerant unit includes a four-way valve installed in the refrigerant flow path, which can be used to change the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path.

15. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The heat exchange unit includes a power pump, which is located in the heat exchange flow path to drive the flow of heat exchange fluid.

16. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The heat exchange unit includes a heat exchange plate, which is heat-transfer connected to the battery cell.

17. The thermal management system according to claim 16, wherein, The heat exchange plate has internal channels for the flow of heat exchange fluid, and these channels are part of the heat exchange flow path.

18. The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, The fluid channel is connected in series or in parallel with the heat exchange flow path.

19. A control device, comprising: The box body forms a placement cavity and an assembly port, wherein the assembly port is connected to the placement cavity; A control module is disposed within the placement cavity, and the control module is configured to control the operation of the thermal management system; A heat exchange structure is provided to close the assembly port. The heat exchange structure includes a fluid channel that is connected to the heat exchange flow path of the thermal management system. The heat exchange flow path is used to circulate heat exchange fluid and to exchange heat with the battery cells.

20. An energy storage device, comprising: At least two battery devices, each of which includes a single battery cell; The cabinet has a battery compartment, and the battery device is housed within the battery compartment; The thermal management system according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the thermal management system is used to regulate the temperature of the battery cell.

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