External Thermal Management for Battery Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lithium-ion battery systems in electric vehicles face challenges with temperature regulation, leading to issues like leakage and condensation due to internal temperature management systems, which are not efficient and can cause operational problems.
Innovation Solution
An external thermal management system is implemented, using a heat transfer device with inbound and outbound passageways to manage heat through a thermal management fluid, which can be air or liquid, and is designed to be external to the battery housing to prevent fluid leakage and improve thermal efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If internal temperature regulating systems are included within the battery system, then temperature regulation capability is improved, but leakage and condensation-related operational challenges occur
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal management system is extracted from the internal battery housing and positioned externally. The housing remains sealed and intact, while thermal management components (coolant channels, heat exchangers) are located outside the battery enclosure, connected through thermal interfaces on the housing exterior. This eliminates the risk of coolant leakage into the battery interior and condensation formation.
Solution Approach 2:
A thermal interface (such as a heat sink or thermal coupling plate) acts as an intermediary between the battery housing and the external thermal management system. Heat is transferred from the battery through the housing walls to the external coolant channels, enabling thermal regulation without direct internal coolant contact.
2Temperature
If internal temperature regulating systems are used, then temperature control is achieved, but the system complexity and potential for harmful factors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coolant circulation system is completely extracted from the battery interior and relocated to the exterior environment. Coolant channels are formed in the housing walls or attached to the external surface, allowing thermal management without introducing harmful fluids into the battery enclosure where leakage and condensation could occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery interior is maintained as a sealed, inert environment free from coolant exposure. By positioning all thermal management fluid pathways externally, the battery interior remains protected from harmful factors associated with coolant presence, such as leakage, corrosion, and condensation.
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 solution effectively regulates battery temperature, reduces the risk of leakage, and enhances the operational efficiency and longevity of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles by providing efficient heat transfer and management without compromising the internal integrity of the battery system.
Implementation Method 1
manage heat through a thermal management fluid
Implementation Method 2
heat transfer device with inbound and outbound passageways
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
Battery systems and modules having external thermal management systems are provided. In one embodiment, a battery module includes a housing and at least one electrochemical cell disposed within the housing. The battery module also includes a thermal interface having a first side in contact with the at least one electrochemical cell. The battery module also includes a heat sink in contact with a second side of the thermal interface. The thermal interface is adapted to enable heat transfer from the at least one electrochemical cell to the heat sink.