Electric Vehicle Battery Coolant Thermal Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pure electric vehicles face 'range anxiety' due to unpredictable battery range and slow progress in increasing energy density, limiting the acceptance of these vehicles in the market, as conventional charging methods do not efficiently manage heat generated during rapid charging, which can lead to battery damage.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dual charging method with a first period of standard overnight charging and a second period of high-power roadside charging, utilizing coolant to manage heat during the high-power charging phase, which can exceed 300 kW, to efficiently and safely recharge batteries to a high capacity within a short time, such as 50% in ten minutes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high-power rapid charging is used to reduce recharging time, then charging speed is improved, but battery temperature increases causing heat damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces coolant as an intermediary substance between the battery and the environment. The coolant circulates through channels in the battery pack, absorbing excess heat generated during rapid charging and transferring it away from the battery, thereby enabling high-power charging without causing dangerous temperature increases
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a liquid cooling system where coolant is pumped through hydraulic channels integrated into the battery structure. This hydraulic approach allows efficient heat removal during rapid charging by circulating fluid through the battery pack, managing thermal loads that would otherwise damage the battery
2Use of energy by moving object
If battery energy is increased to extend vehicle range, then range is improved, but energy density progress is slow limiting the improvement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous operation by providing rapid recharging capability during vehicle stops or overnight parking. The dual charging approach (standard charging plus rapid top-up) ensures the battery is continuously replenished, effectively extending operational range without requiring larger battery capacity
3Reliability
If standard charging is used to avoid heat issues, then battery safety is improved, but recharging time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic cooling cycles during rapid charging, where coolant flow is activated in pulses or continuously during high-power charging intervals. This periodic thermal management allows the battery to accept high-power charging intermittently while maintaining safe temperatures, combining the benefits of fast charging and safety
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces range anxiety by providing rapid and efficient recharging, minimizing battery damage from heat, and increasing the convenience and appeal of pure electric vehicles, potentially reducing costs and environmental impact by promoting broader acceptance and economies of scale.
Implementation Method 1
delivering coolant to the electric vehicle to cool the electric battery during the second period
Data Source
AI summary
A method for recharging an electric vehicle having an electric battery for powering a vehicle drive system is provided. The method includes recharging the electric vehicle during a first period at a first electrical power and recharging the electric vehicle during a second period shorter than the first period at a second electrical power higher than the first electrical power. The recharging includes delivering coolant to the electric vehicle to cool the electric battery during the second period. Other methods of recharging an electric vehicle are also provided.