Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter relates in general to an energy storage unit. More particularly but not exclusively the present subject matter relates to a thermal management system for the energy storage unit and a method thereof.
BACKGROUND 5
[0002] Energy storage units such as battery packs having high energy capacities have critical concerns of safety associated with them. During operation of energy storage units, there is a concomitant increase in temperature perceived in the energy storage unit. In the event the heat generated during operation of the energy storage units exceeds a safe operational threshold, the energy storage unit is termed to have progressed into thermal runaway. 10
[0003] During operation of energy storage units, the continuous exposure of the plurality of cells of the energy storage units to elevated temperatures results in deterioration of the cell parameters such as state of health, leading to loss of cycle life, loss in performance of the plurality of cells and requirement of longer charging duration. Thereby an imperative need arises for ensuring thermal regulation in the energy storage units whereby deciphering 15 effective heat dissipation methods from the plurality of cells becomes indispensable.
[0004] In a thermal runaway, the heat generated by the energy storage units exceed the heat dissipation rates whereby inducing various side reactions between components inside the energy storage units. When the energy storage unit is in thermal runaway the heat generation and consequently the pressure and the temperature of the energy storage units may increase 20 sharply, which may further lead to inflammation and/or explosion of the energy storage units.
[0005] Lithium-ion batteries (hereinafter referred to as LIBs), have features such as high energy density, high power density, excellent cycle performance and environmental friendliness, and are widely used in energy storage systems for electric vehicles and other electrical or electronic machinery. However, LIBs have great propensity of catastrophic 25 failure in events of thermal runaway as the heat energy released from a single failing LIB cell during thermal runaway can cause a chain reaction in the neighboring LIB cells.
[0006] In conventional energy storage units or systems deployed in equipment and vehicles, a battery management system (hereinafter referred to as BMS) is provided which senses abnormal rises in temperatures inside the energy storage system. However, the operation of 30 the BMS is limited is a passive role pertaining to mere monitoring and alerting, whereby the BMS fails to take upon an active mechanism in diagnosing or coping with the abnormality occurring in the energy storage system.
[0007] Presently, the commonly used thermal management technologies used for energy storage units can be classified as air-cooling heat management technology and liquid cooling heat management technology. In air-cooling heat management technology, the cold external air flows through the surface of the energy storage unit for heat exchange and cooling.
[0008] The air-cooling heat management technology is further divided into natural cooling 5 and forced cooling (using a fan, etc.). This technology uses natural wind or a fan to cool the energy storage unit with the evaporator owned by the vehicle itself together. The liquid-cooling thermal management technology uses a water-cooling method for heat exchange of the battery pack. When the battery is subject to heat exchange, the battery exchanges heat with the coolant in the pipeline. 10
[0009] The existing air-cooling thermal management technology has high requirements on the ambient temperature of the inlet air which is difficult to control. Further, incorporation of forced cooling techniques employing fans would lead to higher cost associated with implementation. An inherent limitation of air-cooling thermal management technology is the low heat transfer coefficient associated with gases and the inability to maintain a 15 homogenous heat distribution across the energy storage unit.
[00010] In existing liquid-cooling thermal management technology, typically a liquid-cooling pipe with various structures is interposed between energy storage units, or a liquid-cooling plate is added between the surfaces of the energy storage unit. In operation, the heat generated during charging and discharging of the energy storage unit cannot be directly 20 transferred to the cooling liquid. Therefore, the benefits associated with heat dissipation and cooling of the energy storage unit are not ideal under air-cooling as well as liquid-cooling thermal management technology.
[00011] Considering frequently witnessed fire incidents and overheating concerns in electrical energy storage units, there is a dire need for the development of improved thermal 25 management in the energy storage unit which can effectively dissipate the heat as well as have an economic feasibility in implementation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[00012] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, 30 further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.
[00013] According to embodiments illustrated herein, the present invention provides a
thermal management system for an energy storage unit, the thermal management system comprising the energy storage unit, thermal medium and a control unit. The energy storage unit comprises a plurality of cells and the plurality of cells is enclosed in an external casing. The plurality of cells is immersed in the thermal medium inside the external casing. The 5 control unit is configured to: determine an operating state of the energy storage unit. The operating state if the energy storage unit being associated with one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells. The control unit further monitors one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells associated with the determined operating state. The control unit performs a set of pre-defined operations associated with the determined operating state. 10
[00014] In an aspect, the set of pre-defined operations comprises control of one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium and control of the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells.
[00015] According to embodiments illustrated herein, the present invention additionally provides a method for thermal management of the energy storage unit. The method 15 comprises: determining, by a control unit, an operating state of the energy storage unit. The operating state is associated with one or more cell related parameters of plurality of cells of the energy storage unit. The method then proceeds to detecting, by the control unit, the one or more flow characteristics of a thermal medium. The method then proceeds to monitoring, by the control unit, the one or more cell related parameters associated with the determined 20 operating state. In an aspect, the plurality of cells is immersed in the thermal medium. The method concludes with performing, by the control unit, a set of pre-defined operations associated with the determined operating state.
[00016] In another aspect, the set of pre-defined operations comprises control of the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium and control of the one or more cell related 25 parameters of the plurality of cells.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[00017] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the present invention, and therein. 30
[00018] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures, which is related to a vehicle. However, the present subject matter is not limited to the
depicted embodiment(s). In the figures, the same or similar numbers are used throughout to reference features and components.
[00019]
Figure 1 exemplarily illustrates a thermal management system for an energy storage unit in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00020] Figure 2 exemplarily illustrates an exploded view of the thermal management system 5 for the energy storage unit in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00021] Figure 3 exemplarily illustrates a method for thermal management of the energy storage unit in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00022] Figure 4 exemplarily illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a control unit performing a sequence of operations in the thermal management system in accordance with 10 some other embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00023] The present disclosure may be best understood with reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. Various embodiments are discussed below with reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed 15 descriptions given herein with respect to the figures are simply for explanatory purposes as the embodiments may extend beyond the described embodiments. For example, the teachings presented and the needs of a particular application may yield multiple alternative and suitable approaches to implement the functionality of any detail described herein. Therefore, any approach may extend beyond the particular implementation choices in the following 20 embodiments described and shown.
[00024] References to “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one example,” “an example,” “for example,” and so on indicate that the embodiment(s) or example(s) may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation but that not every embodiment or example necessarily includes that particular 25 feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in an embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.
[00025] The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with different embodiments. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather those 30 embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
[00026] The present subject matter is further described with reference to accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, 5 as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[00027] Various features and embodiments of the present subject matter here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder. It is contemplated that the concepts of the present subject matter may be applied to any kind of vehicle within the scope of this subject matter. The detailed explanation of the constitution of 10 parts other than the present subject matter which constitutes an essential part has been omitted at suitable places.
[00028] The present invention is illustrated with an energy storage unit. However, a person skilled in the art would appreciate that the present invention is not limited to an energy storage unit as illustrated and represented in the figures and detailed description and certain 15 features, aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present invention can be extended to various types of energy storage devices such as battery packs.
[00029] It is an object of the present subject matter to provide a system and method for thermal management of an energy storage unit.
[00030] In accordance with the present configuration, the system comprises a plurality of 20 cells enclosed in an external casing, with the plurality of cells being immersed in a thermal medium. The present disclosure provides an active type cooling method for the energy storage unit where direct contact between the plurality of cells and the thermal medium is maintained. Implementation of immersive methods for thermal regulation in energy storage units have been concluded to be more effective than traditional air-cooled or liquid cooled 25 methods. The immersion of the plurality of cells in the thermal medium ensures that maximum surface area of the plurality of cells is in direct contact with the thermal medium for effective heat dissipation. The drawbacks elucidated in the background with reference to exposure of the plurality of cells of the energy storage unit to elevated temperatures is addressed by ensuring immersion of the plurality of cells of the energy storage unit in the 30 thermal medium.
[00031] It is an object of the present subject matter to effectively thermally regulate the energy storage units under various operating states of the energy storage unit to enhance the flexibility of applicability.
[00032] To this end, the present subject matter comprises a control unit which is in communication with a heat exchanger and one or more pumping units of the present system. The control unit receives one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells to determine an operating state of the energy storage unit and consequently monitor the same. The control unit is configured to perform a set of pre-defined operations associated with the 5 determined operating state to effectively regulate the thermal equilibrium in the energy storage unit. The operating states of the energy storage unit may comprise a charging state or cycle, a discharging state or cycle and an idle state or cycle. The thermal requirements associated with each of the operating states varies. Consequently, to effectively address the anomalies associated with the respective operating state, the control unit is configured to 10 control the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium accordingly.
[00033] To further enhance the efficiency of the present thermal management system proposed, the control unit comprises a look-up table. The look-up table comprises the rate of change of temperature of each operating state associated with the requisite one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium. The disclosed configuration ensures effective and 15 efficient employment of the thermal medium in regulating the temperature of the energy storage unit.
[00034] It is an object of the present subject matter to protect the functionality of a battery management system (hereinafter referred to as BMS) associated with the energy storage unit.
[00035] To this end, for each of the determined operating states of the energy storage unit, 20 the control unit is configured to control one or more cell parameters of the plurality of cells including turning ON or cutting OFF connection between the plurality of cells and the BMS in the event of thermal runaway. The configuration of turning ON or cutting OFF connection between the plurality of cells and the BMS is provided as a fail-safe mode to protect the complex electronics associated with the BMS and isolate any electrical, functional anomaly 25 the BMS may be undergoing.
[00036] In an embodiment, the configuration of the control unit performing the set of pre-defined operations associated with the determined operating state is provided in the BMS of the energy storage unit. The disclosed configuration further reduces the complex electronic and electrical circuits involved in the thermal management system and negates the 30 requirement of an additional control unit being integrated onto the thermal management system.
[00037] In an embodiment, the present subject matter when used in a vehicle is integrated with existent cooling circuits provided in the vehicle such as radiators, thermoelectric coolers
or any other circuit configured to modulate a temperature of the thermal medium. The disclosed configuration reduces the overall weight of the thermal management system without affecting the effectiveness and efficiency of the present subject matter. [00038] In an embodiment, the thermal management system comprises a reservoir configured to store the thermal medium. During operation, due to the flow cycles of the thermal medium 5 and some clearances existing between the plurality of channels of the thermal management system, there is a possibility of leakage of the thermal medium from the flow circuit of the thermal management system. In order to address potential leakage of the thermal medium, a reservoir is provided to provide the amount of thermal medium lost in transit.
[00039] In an embodiment, the thermal management system comprises an alert unit 10 communicatively coupled to the control unit. The control unit may be configured to transmit an alert signal to the alert unit to apprise the concerned authorities on the onset of thermal runaway when the rate of change of temperature exceeds the values defined in the look-up table of the control unit. The alert unit may comprise a personal digital assistant of the user, an external server communicatively connected to safety authorities such as hospitals, police 15 stations and even service providers for the energy storage unit.
[00040] The present subject matter is further described with reference to accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, 20 all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[00041] The present subject matter may be implemented in any form of energy storage unit. However, for the purpose of explanation and by no limitation, the present invention, and corresponding additional advantages and features are described through the following 25 embodiments depicting an energy storage unit or a combination of energy storage units including battery packs.
[00042] Figure 1 exemplarily illustrates a thermal management system for an energy storage unit in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00043] With reference to Figure 1, 100 denotes a thermal management system, 102 denotes 30 an energy storage unit, 104 denotes an external casing of the energy storage unit, 106 denotes a heat exchanger, 108 denotes one or more pumping units, 110a and 110b denotes a plurality
of channels, 112a denotes an ingress port of the external casing and 112b denotes an egress port of the external casing. [00044] In an aspect, the thermal management system 100 comprises the energy storage unit 102, the heat exchanger 106 and one or more pumping units 108. A thermal medium is configured to flow through the thermal management system 100 through a plurality of
5 channels 110a, 110b connecting the heat exchanger 106, the one or more pumping units 108 and the energy storage unit 102.
[00045] The thermal management system 100 in accordance with the present configuration refers to a heat regulating system for the energy storage unit 102 configured to maintain optimal operating temperatures of the energy storage unit 102 to prevent thermal runaway, 10 efficient operation and an optimal service life of the energy storage unit 102. With particular reference to energy storage unit 102, the incorporation of a thermal management system 100 is deemed imperative. The energy storage unit 102 when subjected to prolong exposure to high temperature have an evidential deterioration in charging and discharging characteristics which adversely affects the life cycle and durability of the energy storage unit 102. In pursuit 15 of maintenance of safe and durable operating conditions of the energy storage unit 102, a mechanism to regulate the operational temperature of the energy storage unit 102 is essential.
[00046] The energy storage unit 102 refers to any storage device capable of storing energy, supplying the stored energy to one or more external loads upon requirement and receiving energy from an energy reservoir for storage purposes. In an exemplary embodiment, the 20 energy storage unit 102 refers to a device configured to receive electrical energy during a charging cycle, store the electrical energy during an idle cycle and supply the electrical energy to one or more external loads in a discharge cycle. In an exemplary embodiment, the energy storage unit 102 is a battery pack.
[00047] In an aspect, the energy storage unit 102 may comprise of a plurality of cells or a 25 plurality of modules electrically connected in a series configuration, a parallel configuration or a combination of series and parallel configuration. The electrical connection between the plurality of cells and the plurality of modules is based on the requisite current characteristics, the requisite voltage and the requisite power to be supplied to one or more external loads. The energy storage unit 102 additionally comprises one or more cell holders configured to 30 maintain inter-cell spacing and structurally support the plurality of cells or a plurality of modules of the energy storage unit 102. The energy storage unit 102 also comprises one or
more interconnectors configured to establish an electrical connection between the plurality of cells or a plurality of modules. In an embodiment, the energy storage unit 102 comprises a plurality of cells. [00048] In an aspect, the plurality of cells or a plurality of modules of the energy storage unit 102 is immersed in a thermal medium. The thermal medium refers to a dielectric fluid
5 configured to be electrically insulating while thermally conducting. The thermal medium offers a heat exchange medium between itself and the plurality of cells or a plurality of modules of the energy storage unit. During operation, the direct contact existent between the plurality of cells or a plurality of modules and the thermal medium effectuates higher rate of heat exchange between the energy storage unit 102 and the thermal medium. 10
[00049] In an aspect, the plurality of cells or a plurality of modules of the energy storage unit 102 along with the thermal medium is enclosed in an external casing 104. The external casing 104 may be composed of a metal or plastic and is configured to protect the energy storage unit 102 against external environmental factors and impact loads.
[00050] In an aspect, the thermal management system 100 comprises a heat exchanger 106. 15 The heat exchanger 106 may comprise a plurality of metal pipes, a heating coil, a cooling circuit, a plurality of heat radiating surfaces, a thermostat, a thermoelectric heater-cooler unit or a combination thereof. The heat exchanger 106 is configured to serve the purpose of heating the thermal medium as well as cooling the thermal medium as and when required. The heat exchanger 106 regulates the temperature of the thermal medium to ensure optimal 20 operating temperature of the energy storage unit 102.
[00051] In an aspect, the thermal management system 100 comprises one or more pumping unit 108. The one or more pumping unit 108 is configured to alter one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium. In an embodiment, the one or more pumping unit 108 refers to a fluidic pump configured to alter the pressure of the thermal medium. In another 25 embodiment, the one or more pumping unit 108 may be a valve configured to alter the velocity and discharge rate of the thermal medium flowing into the energy storage unit 102. In an aspect, the one or more pumping unit 108 employed may be a mechanical pump, a hydraulic pump, a positive displacement pump, a dynamic pump or any electrical, mechanical or electronic device configured to alter one or more flow characteristics of the 30 thermal medium.
[00052] The one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium comprises at least one of a pressure, a velocity, a discharge rate and a temperature of the thermal medium at ingress into the external casing 104 and egress from the external casing 104. While the heat exchanger 106 is configured to alter the temperature of the thermal medium, the one or more pumping units 108 is configured to alter at least one of the pressure, the velocity and the
5 discharge rate of the thermal medium. The thermal medium can be chosen from a group consisting of coolants, hydrants, suppressants, fire hydrant materials, heat transfer fluids and nanofluids.
[00053] The thermal management system 100 comprises a plurality of channels 110a, 110b. The plurality of channels 110a, 110b permit movement of the thermal medium in the thermal 10 management system 100. The plurality of channels 110a, 110b ensure a flow path between the energy storage unit 102, the heat exchanger 106 and the one or more pumping units 108. The plurality of channels 110a, 110b comprises one or more inlet channels 110b and one or more outlet channels 110a.
[00054] The one or more inlet channels 110b are configured to permit ingress of the thermal 15 medium inside the external casing 104 through an ingress port 112a of the external casing 104. The one or more inlet channels 110b connects the one or more pumping units 108 to the ingress port 112a of the external casing 104. The thermal medium with altered one or more flow characteristics is supplied to the plurality of cells or plurality of modules of the energy storage unit 102 through the one or more inlet channels 110b. 20
[00055] Further, the one or more outlet channels 110a are configured to permit egress of the thermal medium from the external casing 104. An egress port 112b is provided in a pre-set location of the external casing 104, the one or more outlet channels 110a is connected to the egress port 112b of the external casing 104 at one end and to the heat exchanger 106 at the other end. The one or more outlet channels 110a is configured to provide the thermal medium 25 exiting the external casing to the flow through the heat exchanger 106 in which the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium is altered.
[00056] In an embodiment, the external casing 104 comprises an ingress port 112a to which the one or more inlet channels 110b is connected to permit ingress of the thermal medium inside the energy storage unit 102. Additionally, the external casing 104 comprises an egress 30 port 112b to which the one or more outlet channels 110a is connected to permit egress of the thermal medium from the energy storage unit 102. The ingress port 112a and the egress port
112b are provided in an external surface of the external casing 104 and extends through the material thickness of the external casing 104 to permit the movement of the thermal medium to and from the energy storage unit 102. [00057] In an exemplary embodiment, the ingress port 112a of the external casing 104 is disposed in a bottom region of the external casing 104. The bottom region being below a
5 central axis of the external casing 104 extending horizontally and dividing the external casing 104 into a bottom region and a top region. The egress port 112b of the external casing 104 is disposed in a top region of the external casing 104. During operation, the heated thermal medium tends to accumulate towards the top region, thereby the egress port 112b can facilitate ease of movement of the thermal medium from the energy storage unit 102 and to 10 other components of the thermal management system 100. In an embodiment, the ingress port 112a and the egress port 112b of the external casing 104 are disposed on opposite faces sides of the external casing 104.
[00058] The one or more inlet channels 110b and one or more outlet channels 110a in connection with the external casing 104 and through the one or more pumping units 108 and 15 the heat exchanger 106 define the flow path of the thermal medium in the thermal management system 100. The plurality of channels 110a, 110b may comprise one or more ducts, pipes, tubes, integrated passages, hoses and a combination thereof.
[00059] In an embodiment, the thermal management system 100 comprises a heat exchanger 106 configured to modify the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium. The 20 heat exchanger 106 is connected to the energy storage unit 102 by the plurality of channels 110a, 110b. The one or more outlet channels 110a are connected to an inlet of the heat exchanger 106, and the one or more inlet channels 110b are connected to an outlet of the heat exchanger (106). In an aspect, the one or more flow characteristics being modified by the heat exchanger 106 comprising at least a temperature of the thermal medium. 25
[00060] Figure 2 exemplarily illustrates an exploded view of the thermal management system for the energy storage unit in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00061] With reference to figure 2, 202 denotes a plurality of cells. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the energy storage unit 102 comprises a plurality of cells 202, where the thermal medium is configured to immerse the plurality of cells 202 30 which is enclosed by an external casing 104. The immersion of the plurality of cells 202 in the thermal medium ensures direct contact between the surface area of each cell and the
thermal medium for effective heat exchange between the plurality of cells 202 and the thermal medium. [00062] As depicted in figure 2, the plurality of cells 202 is supported by one or more cell holders disposed in a top portion and a bottom portion of the energy storage unit 102 to provide structural support to the plurality of cells 202. The plurality of cells 202 may be
5 connected in series, in parallel or a combination thereof by way of interconnectors and busbars.
[00063] In operation, the plurality of cells 202 comprises an operating state, the operating state comprises of a charging state, a discharging state and an idle state. The present subject matter in accordance with the present configuration is intended to actively regulate the 10 thermal equilibrium of the energy storage unit under charging, discharging as well as idle states of operation of the energy storage unit 102.
[00064] In an aspect, the plurality of cells 202 of the energy storage unit 102 are conferred to be in a charging state when electrical energy from an external energy source is supplied to the plurality of cells 202. Under the charging state, there is a continuous in-flow of energy into 15 the plurality of cells 202 leading to an increasing state of charge or level of charge in relation to the capacity of the energy storage unit 102. The external energy source in an embodiment may be a charging station. In another embodiment, the external energy source may comprise an AC-to-DC converter in conjunction with an external charging station. The one or more cell related parameters associated with the plurality of cells 202 during the charging state are 20 unique. For instance, the pre-defined maximum charging threshold in terms of temperature is 35 to 40°C.
[00065] In an aspect, the plurality of cells 202 of the energy storage unit 102 are conferred to be in a discharging state when the energy storage unit 102 is connected to one or more external loads and the energy storage unit 102 supplies its stored energy to the one or more 25 loads. The one or more loads may be a motor, a plurality of lighting units, a plurality of controllers or control units or other concomitant devices adapted to draw energy from the energy storage unit 102. During the discharging state of the energy storage unit 102, the state of charge of the energy storage unit 102 decreases. Additionally, there are a different set of one or more cell related parameters associated with the plurality of cells 202 during 30 discharging state. For instance, the pre-defined maximum discharging threshold during the discharging state in terms of temperature is 55 to 60°C.
[00066] In an aspect, the plurality of cells 202 of the energy storage unit 102 are conferred to be in an idle state when the energy storage unit 102 is neither in a charging state and nor in a discharging state. In the idle state, the energy storage unit 102 is neither supplying energy to one or more external loads and nor receiving energy from an external energy source. Additionally, there are a different set of one or more cell related parameters associated with 5 the plurality of cells 202 during the idle state as well, making all the operating states of the energy storage unit 102 different from each other. For instance, the pre-defined maximum idle threshold during the idle state is associated with a pre-defined optimum charging threshold and a pre-defined maximum discharging threshold.
[00067] In an embodiment, the energy storage unit 102 is employed in a vehicle (not shown), 10 where the energy storage unit 102 is configured to operate in conjunction with a motor to propel the vehicle. The energy storage unit 102 is electrically connected to one or more loads in the vehicle. The one or more loads comprises at least one of a motor driving the one or more wheels of the vehicle through a transmission system, lighting units of the vehicle, instrument cluster and control units disposed in the vehicle. In a discharging state of the 15 energy storage unit 102, the energy storage unit 102 supplies electrical energy to the one or more loads. In a charging state of the energy storage unit 102, an electrical charger port disposed in the vehicle is connected to an output charging port of a charger unit, whereby electrical energy is supplied to the energy storage unit 102. In an idle state of the energy storage unit 102, the energy storage unit 102 is neither involved in supplying energy to the 20 one or more loads, nor receiving any energy from the charger unit. The idle state of the energy storage unit 102, is represented as an idle state of the vehicle when it is stationary without any energy consumption being involved.
[00068] The thermal management system 100 in accordance with the present disclosure comprises a control unit. The control unit is configured to: determine an operating state of the 25 energy storage unit 102, wherein the operating state being associated with one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202. In an aspect, the control unit is communicatively coupled to one or more sensors of the energy storage unit 102 configured to measure the one or more cell related parameters. As each of the operating states of the energy storage unit 102 is associated with a different set of one or more cell related parameters, the 30 control unit based on a pre-set reference can determine the appropriate operating state of the energy storage unit.
[00069] The control unit is further configured to monitor the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 associated with the determined operating state. The
monitoring of the one or more cell parameters by the control unit is essential to the ensure safe operationality of the thermal management system 100. In an aspect, each of the operating states have a pre-defined optimum value of one or more cell parameters indicative of safe operation of the energy storage unit 102 in a safe condition. Further, each operating state has a pre-defined maximum value of one or more cell parameters indicative that the energy
5 storage unit 102 being operating in an unsafe condition beyond the maximum limits. [00070]
The control unit is further configured to perform a set of pre-defined operations associated with the determined operating state. In an aspect, the set of pre-defined operations comprises control of one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium and control of the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202. 10
[00071] At the outset, for the purposes of the present disclosure without an intent of being limitative the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium being at least one of a pressure, a velocity, a discharge rate and a temperature of the thermal medium at ingress into the external casing 104 and egress from the external casing 104. Additionally, the one or more cell related parameters being at least one of a temperature, a rate of change of 15 temperature, a discharging rate, a charging rate of the plurality of cells 202, a turning on and cutting off of a battery management system of the plurality of cells 202. The control unit can be further modified to incorporate other aspects of cell parameters such as state of health and a state of charge.
[00072] In an aspect, the control unit is communicatively connected to one or more pumping 20 units 108 to control the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium. In an embodiment, the control unit modulates the power sent to the one or more pumping units 108 to accordingly control the flowrate of the thermal medium. Further, the control unit is communicatively connected to the heat exchanger 106 to control the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium. 25
[00073] In another embodiment, the thermal management system 100 comprises one or more valve disposed at the ingress port 112a and egress port 112b of the external casing 104 , whereby the control unit is communicatively connected to the one or more vale to control a pressure, a discharge and a flowrate of the thermal medium entering and leaving the external casing 104 enclosing the plurality of cells 202. 30
[00074] In an aspect, upon the determined operating state being the charging state of the energy storage unit 102, the set of pre-defined operations comprises controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium upon the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 being beyond a pre-defined optimum charging threshold
associated with the charging state. Further, the control unit controls the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 upon the one or more cell related parameters being beyond the pre-defined optimum charging threshold. The one or more cell related parameters being controlled is a charging rate of the plurality of cells 202. Additionally, the control unit controls the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 upon
5 the one or more cell related parameters being beyond a pre-defined maximum charging threshold. The one or more cell related parameters being controlled is the cutting off the battery management system of the plurality of cells 202 and stopping the charging operation of the plurality of cells 202. [00075]
As an illustration, during the charging state of the energy storage unit 102 the control 10 unit continuously monitors the one or more cell parameters of the energy storage unit 102 against a pre-defined optimum charging threshold and a pre-defined maximum charging threshold. In an exemplary embodiment, the pre-defined optimum charging threshold with reference to temperature of the plurality of cells 202 of the energy storage unit 102 is in the range of up to 35°C. During the operation of the energy storage unit 102 being beyond the 15 pre-defined optimum charging threshold, based on the one or more cell parameters such as, but not limited to, temperature, rate of change of temperature and a charging rate, the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium is modified. The control unit being in communication with the one or more pumping units 108 and the heat exchanger 106, controls at least one of a pressure, a velocity, a discharge rate and a temperature of the thermal 20 medium at the ingress port 112a and the egress port 112b of the external casing 104 to associatively control the heat transfer rate existent between the plurality of cells 202 and the thermal medium. Further, the control unit in communication with the BMS of the energy storage unit control one or more cell related parameters such as a charging rate of the plurality of cells 202. Additionally, upon the monitored one or more cell related parameters 25 exceeding the pre-defined maximum charging threshold, the control unit is configured to cut off the connection between the BMS and the charging source and consequently stop the charging operation. The cutting off of the BMS is essential to protect the functionality of the BMS and the energy storage unit 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the pre-defined maximum charging threshold is 40°C. 30
[00076] For instance, a higher flow rate of the thermal medium at a temperature lower than the temperature than the plurality of cells 202 would facilitate more efficient heat transfer and better cooling of the plurality of cells 202 in the event the energy storage unit 102 requires cooling.
[00077]
In some tropical countries, the ambient temperature existent may be around 50°C, however in view of the thermal management system 100 in accordance with the present disclosure, the thermal properties of the energy storage unit 102 is maintained as per the supplier suggestions by employing a heat exchanger 106.
[00078] In another aspect, upon the determined operating state being the discharging state, 5 the set of pre-defined operations comprising controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium upon the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 being beyond a pre-defined optimum discharging threshold associated with the discharging state. Further, the control unit controls the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 upon the one or more cell related parameters being beyond a pre-10 defined maximum discharging threshold, where the one or more cell related parameters being controlled is cutting off of the battery management system of the plurality of cells 202.
[00079] As an illustration, during the discharging state of the energy storage unit 102 the control unit continuously monitors the one or more cell parameters of the energy storage unit 102 against a pre-defined optimum discharging threshold and a pre-defined maximum 15 discharging threshold. In an exemplary embodiment, the pre-defined optimum discharging threshold is 60°C while the pre-defined maximum discharging threshold is 65°C. During the operation of the energy storage unit 102 being beyond the pre-defined optimum discharging threshold, based on the one or more cell parameters such as, but not limited to, temperature, rate of change of temperature and a discharging rate, the one or more flow characteristics of 20 the thermal medium is modified. The control unit being in communication with the one or more pumping units 108 and the heat exchanger 106, controls at least one of a pressure, a velocity, a discharge rate and a temperature of the thermal medium at the ingress port 112a and the egress port 112b of the external casing 104 to associatively control the heat transfer rate existent between the plurality of cells 202 and the thermal medium with reference to 25 discharging state of the energy storage unit 102. Further, upon the monitored one or more cell related parameters exceeding the pre-defined maximum discharging threshold, the control unit is configured to cut off the connection to the BMS. The cutting off of the BMS is essential to protect the functionality of the BMS and the energy storage unit 102 from prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures. 30
[00080] In another aspect, upon the determined operating state being the idle state, the set of pre-defined operations comprising controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium upon the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 being beyond a pre-defined maximum idle threshold associated with the idle state.
[00081]
As an illustration, during the idle state of the energy storage unit 102 the control unit continuously monitors the one or more cell parameters of the energy storage unit 102 against a pre-defined maximum idle threshold. During the operation of the energy storage unit 102 being beyond the pre-defined maximum idle threshold, based on the one or more cell parameters such as, but not limited to, temperature and a rate of change of temperature, the 5 one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium is modified. The control unit being in communication with the one or more pumping units 108 and the heat exchanger 106, controls at least one of a pressure, a velocity, a discharge rate and a temperature of the thermal medium at the ingress port 112a and the egress port 112b of the external casing 104 to associatively control the heat transfer rate existent between the plurality of cells 202 and the 10 thermal medium with reference to the idle state. Since, during the idle state intervention of the BMS is not required, the control unit does not control or modify one or more cell parameters.
[00082] In an aspect, the control unit comprises a look-up table based on which the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium and control of one or more cell related 15 parameters of the plurality of cells 202 is performed. In an embodiment, the look-up table comprises the rate of change of temperature for each operating state of the energy storage unit 102 determined in real-time associated with required one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium.
[00083] In operation, the control unit upon determination of the operating state of the energy 20 storage unit, fetches a look-up table comprising at least a rate of change of temperature, a temperature and other associated one or more cell parameters with the determined operating state. The look-up table links the one or more cell parameters with the determined operating state with the requisite one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium which would be sufficient to alleviate the onset of thermal runaway or even overheating of the energy 25 storage unit 102 due to some abnormalities.
[00084] The control unit comprises of suitable logic, circuitry interfaces, and/or code that is configured to receive one or more cell related parameters. The control unit may be configured to detect an operating state of the energy storage unit 102 based on the one or more cell related parameters. 30
[00085] In an embodiment, the control unit comprises a processor unit (not shown), a memory unit (not shown), an input/output unit (not shown) and a transceiver (not shown). In
an aspect, the processor unit may be communicatively coupled to the memory, the transceiver, and the input/output unit. [00086] In an aspect, the processor unit of the control unit may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and/or code that may be configured to execute a set of instructions stored in the memory. The processor unit may be implemented based on a number of processor
5 technologies known in the art. The processor unit may work in coordination with the transceiver, the input/output unit to receive one or more vehicle related parameters. Examples of the processor unit include, but not limited to, an X86-based processor, a Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) processor, an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) processor, a Complex Instruction Set Computing (CIBC) processor, and/or other 10 processor.
[00087] The control unit may be configured to include a memory may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and/or code that may be configured to store the set of instructions, which are executed by a processor of the control unit. In an embodiment, the memory may be configured to store one or more programs, routines, or scripts that may be executed in 15 coordination with the processor. The memory may be implemented based on a Random Access Memory (RAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), a storage server, and/or a Secure Digital (SD) card for storing various one or more cell related parameters. The control unit may additionally comprise one or more processor units configured to enable arithmetic and logical applications of the control unit. 20
[00088] The transceiver of the control unit may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and/or code that may be configured to transmit and receive one or more data from the energy storage unit 102 or even an external server communicatively connected to the control unit. The transceiver may implement one or more known technologies to support wired or wireless communication with the communication network. In an embodiment, the transceiver may 25 include, but is not limited to, an antenna, a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, one or more amplifiers, a tuner, one or more oscillators, a digital signal processor, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device, a coder-decoder (CODEC) chipset, a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, and/or a local buffer. The transceiver may communicate via wireless communication with networks, such as the Internet, an Intranet and/or a wireless network, such as a cellular 30 telephone network, a wireless local area network (LAN) and/or a metropolitan area network (MAN). The wireless communication may use any of a plurality of communication standards, protocols and technologies, such as: Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM),
Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), wideband code division multiple access (W-CDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) (e,g., IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g and/or IEEE 802.11n), voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Wi-MAX, a protocol for email, instant messaging, and/or Short Message Service (SMS).
5 [00089] Figure 3 exemplarily illustrates a method for thermal management of the energy storage unit in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00090] The method 300 for thermal management system 100 starts at step 302 and then proceeds to step 304. At step 304, the control unit is configured to determine 304 an operating state of the energy storage unit 102. The operating state being associated with one 10 or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 of the energy storage unit 102. The control unit is configured to receive one or more cell parameters of the plurality of cells 202 based on which it is configured to determine the operating state of the energy storage unit 102. In an aspect, the operating state of the energy storage unit 102 being one of a charging state, a discharging state and an idle state of the energy storage unit 102. The one or more cell 15 related parameters being at least one of a temperature, a rate of change of temperature, a discharging rate, a charging rate of the plurality of cells 202, a turning on and cutting off of a battery management system of the plurality of cells 202. Upon determination 304 of the operating state, the method 300 proceeds to step 306.
[00091] At step 306, the control unit is configured to detect 306, one or more flow 20 characteristics of a thermal medium. In an embodiment, the plurality of cells 202 is immersed in the thermal medium. The one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium being at least one of a pressure, a velocity, a discharge rate and a temperature of the thermal medium. Upon detection 306 of the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium, the method 300 proceeds to step 308. 25
[00092] At step 308, the control unit is configured to monitor the one or more cell related parameters associated with the determined operating state. In an aspect, each operating state of the energy storage unit 102 has an associated value of the one or more cell parameters and accordingly an associated optimal threshold and a maximum threshold. The configuration of each operating state having a pre-defined optimal threshold and a pre-defined maximum 30 threshold is imperative to accurately determine the indication of any abnormality or miscellaneous nature in the performance or operation of the energy storage unit 102. The
monitoring configuration of the control unit is essential as it ensures provision of an active thermal management system 100. During monitoring 306 of the one or more cell parameters in case an abnormality is detected, the method 300 proceeds to step 310. [00093] At step 310, the control unit is configured to perform a set of pre-defined operations associated with the determined operating state. The set of pre-defined operations comprises
5 control of the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium and control of the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202.
[00094] In the event, the determined operating state being the charging state, the set of pre-defined operations comprising: controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium to and the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 upon the 10 one or more cell related parameters being beyond an optimum charging threshold associated with the charging state. In an aspect, the one or more cell related parameters being controlled is a charging rate of the plurality of cells 202. Further, the control unit controls the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 upon the one or more cell related parameters being beyond a maximum charging threshold associated with the charging state,. 15 In an aspect, the one or more cell related parameters being controlled is the cutting off of the battery management system of the plurality of cells 202 and stopping the charging operation of the plurality of cells 202.
[00095] In the event the determined operating state being the discharging state, the set of pre-defined operations comprising: controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal 20 medium upon the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 being beyond an optimum discharging threshold associated with the discharging state. Further, the control unit is configured to control the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 upon the one or more cell related parameters being beyond a maximum discharging threshold associated with the discharging state. In an aspect, the one or more cell related 25 parameters being controlled is the cutting off of the battery management system of the plurality of cells 202.
[00096] In the event, the determined operating state being the idle state, the set of pre-defined operations comprising: controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium upon the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 202 being 30 beyond a maximum idle threshold associated with the idle state. The method 300 ends at step 312.
[00097]
Figure 4 exemplarily illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a control unit performing a sequence of operations in the thermal management system in accordance with some other embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00098] Figure 4 illustrates a flowchart 400 illustrating the sequence of operations performed by the control unit in the thermal management system 100. The flowchart 400 illustrates an 5 exemplary embodiment of the control unit performing the pre-defined set of operation, where the one or more cell parameters dictating the sequence of operations being temperature of the plurality of cells 202 of the energy storage unit 102. The flowchart 400 is provided for illustrative purposes and shall not be construed as limitative to only a temperature aspect of the plurality of cells 202 of the energy storage unit 102. 10
[00099] The flowchart starts at step 402 and proceeds to 404. At step 404, the control unit is configured to determine an operating state of the energy storage unit 102. The operating state of the energy storage unit 102 may be one of a charging state, a discharging state and an idle state. The operating state of the energy storage unit 102 is determined based on one or more cell parameters of the plurality of cells 202 of the energy storage unit 102. In an aspect, each 15 operating state of the energy storage unit 102 is associated with a different set of values of the one or more cell parameters, making the determination of the operating state by the control unit precise.
[000100] At step 406, the one or more cell parameters of the plurality of cells 202 measured in real-time is compared against a pre-set value of one or more cell parameters 20 associated with the charging state. In an aspect, the pre-set value of one or more cell parameters associated with the charging state comprises a pre-defined optimum charging threshold and a pre-defined maximum charging threshold. Upon the affirmation of the plurality of cells 202 being in charging state, the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 406a.
[000101] At step 406a, the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is compared to a pre-25 defined optimum charging threshold (Tcop). The pre-defined optimum charging threshold (Tcop) is indicative of an acceptable optimum temperature of the plurality of cells 202 while undergoing charging. In the event the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is less than the pre-defined optimum charging threshold (Tcop), the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 412. In the event the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is beyond the pre-defined optimum 30 charging threshold (Tcop), the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 406b.
[000102] At step 406b, the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is compared to a pre-defined maximum charging threshold (Tcmax). The pre-defined maximum charging threshold (Tcmax) is indicative of the absolute highest value of temperature associated with
the charging state. In the event, the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is below the pre-defined maximum charging threshold (Tcmax) but exceeding the pre-defined optimum charging threshold (Tcop) the flowchart 400 proceeds to 406d where the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium such as the flow rate is increased. Further, the one or more cell parameters comprising the charging rate of the plurality of cells 202 is decreased. 5 However, if the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is beyond the pre-defined maximum charging threshold (Tcmax) the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 406c the BMS is cut off and the charging operation is ceased. [000103] After step 406d, the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 406a where the control unit is configured to monitor and compare the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 against 10 the pre-defined optimum charging threshold (Tcop).
[000104] In the event, the one or more cell parameters at step 406 are not indicative of a charging state of the plurality of cells 202, the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 408.
[000105] At step 408, the control unit is configured to compare the one or more cell parameters of the plurality of cells 202 measured in real-time against a pre-set value of one or 15 more cell parameters associated with the discharging state. In an aspect, the pre-set value of one or more cell parameters associated with the discharging state comprises a pre-defined optimum discharging threshold and a pre-defined maximum discharging threshold. Upon the affirmation of the plurality of cells 202 being in a discharging state, the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 408a. 20
[000106] At step 408a, the control unit is configured to compare the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 to a pre-defined optimum discharging threshold (Tdop). The pre-defined optimum discharging threshold (Tdop) is indicative of a permissible optimum temperature of the plurality of cells 202 while undergoing discharging. In the event the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is less than the pre-defined optimum discharging threshold (Tdop), the 25 flowchart 400 proceeds to step 412. In the event the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is beyond the pre-defined optimum discharging threshold (Tdop), the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 408b.
[000107] At step 408b, the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is compared to a pre-defined maximum discharging threshold (Tdmax). The pre-defined maximum 30 discharging threshold (Tdmax) is indicative of the absolute highest value of temperature associated with the discharging state. In the event, the temperature of the plurality of cells is less than the pre-defined maximum discharging threshold (Tdop), the flowchart 400 proceeds
to step 408c where the control unit is configured to increase the flow rate of the thermal medium to the plurality of cells 202. [000108] In the event, the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is beyond the pre-defined maximum discharging threshold (Tdmax) the flow chart 400 proceeds to step 408d, the control unit is configured to cut-off the BMS. Proceeding step 408d, the flowchart 5 proceeds to step 408c where the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium such as the flow rate is increased to better facilitate heat transfer rate between the plurality of cells 202 and the thermal medium.
[000109] Further, proceeding step 408c, the control unit is configured to continuously evaluate whether the temperature of the plurality of cells is less than the pre-defined optimum 10 discharging threshold (Tdop) at step 408a to ensure safe monitoring.
[000110] In the event the one or more cell parameters at step 406 and step 408 are neither indicative of a charging state nor a discharging state of the plurality of cells 202, the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 410.
[000111] At step 410, the control unit is configured to compare the one or more cell 15 parameters of the plurality of cells 202 measured in real-time against a pre-set value of one or more cell parameters associated with the idle state. In an aspect, the pre-set value of one or more cell parameters associated with the idle state comprises a pre-defined maximum idle threshold. Upon affirmation that the plurality of cells 202 are in the idle state, the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 410a. 20
[000112] At step 410a, the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is compared to a pre-defined optimum idle threshold (Tiop). The pre-defined optimum idle threshold (Tiop) is indicative of an acceptable optimum temperature of the plurality of cells 202 under idle state. The pre-defined optimum idle threshold (Tiop) is a function of the pre-defined optimum charging threshold (Tcop) and the pre-defined maximum discharging threshold (Tdmax). 25
[000113] In the event, the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is less than the pre-defined optimum idle threshold (Tiop), the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 412. In the event the temperature of the plurality of cells 202 is beyond the pre-defined optimum idle threshold (Tiop), the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 410b.
[000114] At step 410b, the control unit is configured to control one or more flow 30 characteristics of the thermal medium such as increasing the flow rate od the thermal medium for effective heat transfer between the plurality of cells 202 and the thermal medium.
[000115] In the event, the one or more cell parameters are not indicative of the charging state, the discharging state and the idle state, the flowchart 400 proceeds to step 402. The
flowchart 400 illustrating the sequence of operations performed by the control unit in the thermal management system 100 ends at step 412. [000116] In an embodiment, the heat exchanger 106 in accordance with the present configuration is integrated with the existent air conditioning system of a vehicle in which the energy storage unit 102 is employed. The integration of the heat exchanger 106 with existent
5 air conditioning system eliminates the requirement of an additional heat exchanger. However, in this embodiment, the present subject matter would be limited onto to ensure cooling of the energy storage unit during charging state, discharge state and idle state. The existent air conditioning system may be a thermoelectric cooler or a radiator.
[000117] The terms “an embodiment”, “embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the embodiment”, 10 “the embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments”, and “one embodiment” mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the invention(s)” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including”, “comprising”, “having” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to”, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise. 15
[000118] The disclosed claimed limitations and the disclosure provided herein provides an energy storage unit 102. The claimed invention in an aspect provides a thermal management system for an energy storage unit and a method thereof.
[000119] Known thermal management systems fail to address specific requirements of temperature and pressure associated with these specific states of operation of the energy 20 storage unit, and merely employ a coolant being triggered upon a generic temperature threshold being surpassed.
[000120] For instance, in known thermal management systems using a phase change material, until the plurality of cells reach the phase transition temperature of the plurality of cells, the thermal management system cannot be deemed active. Further, owing to different 25 temperature aspects of the charging state, discharging state and the idle state, the known systems fail to effectively regulate temperature of the energy storage unit.
[000121] The present disclosure provides an active thermal management system comprising a control unit configured to control one or more flow characteristics of a thermal medium as well as one or more cell parameters of the plurality of cell 202 to effectively 30 regulate the energy storage unit 102 thermally. The present subject matter addresses the exact drawback of the known arts by providing a control unit configured to correlate specific cell requirements associated with each of the charging, the discharging and the idle states of
operation. The present configuration thus ensures optimal thermal regulation of the energy storage unit 102. [000122] In an aspect, teachings derived from the present configuration of the thermal management system for an energy storage unit and a method thereof, the present configuration can be extended to controlling one or more flow characteristics of a thermal 5 medium being circulated through a motor component or other external loads of the energy storage unit subjected to heating, whereby the external surface of the motor component for instance is subjected to heat transfer by the same thermal medium.
[000123] A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with another does not imply that all such components are required, On the contrary, a variety of 10 optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the invention,
[000124] Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter and is therefore intended that the scope of the 15 invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based here on. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present invention are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention, which is set forth in the following claims.
[000125] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects 20 and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
[000126] A person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the systems, modules, and sub-modules have been illustrated and explained to serve as examples and should not be 25 considered limiting in any manner. It will be further appreciated that the variants of the above disclosed system elements, modules, and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined to create other different systems or applications.
[000127] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be 30 made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or
material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
5 , Claims:We claim,
1. A thermal management system (100) for an energy storage unit (102), the thermal management system (100) comprising:
the energy storage unit (102) comprising a plurality of cells (202) and the plurality of cells (202) being enclosed in an external casing (104); 5
a thermal medium, wherein the plurality of cells (202) being immersed in the thermal medium inside the external casing (104); and
a control unit, the control unit being configured to:
determine an operating state of the energy storage unit (102), wherein the operating state being associated with one or more cell 10 related parameters of the plurality of cells (202),
monitor the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) associated with the determined operating state, and
perform a set of pre-defined operations associated with the determined operating state, 15
wherein the set of pre-defined operations comprises control of one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium and control of the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202).
20
2. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium being at least one of a pressure, a velocity, a discharge rate and a temperature of the thermal medium at ingress into the external casing (104) and egress from the external casing (104). 25
3. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more cell related parameters being at least one of a temperature, a rate of change of temperature, a discharging rate, a charging rate of the plurality of cells (202), a turning on and cutting off of a battery management system 30 of the plurality of cells (202).
4. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the thermal management system (100) comprising a plurality of channels (110a, 110b) to permit movement of the thermal medium in the thermal management system (100), wherein the plurality of channels (110a, 110b) comprising:
one or more inlet channels (110b) connected to an ingress port (112a) of the 5 external casing (104) and configured to permit ingress of the thermal medium inside the energy storage unit (102); and
one or more outlet channels (110a) connected to an egress port (112b) of the external casing (104) and configured to permit egress of the thermal medium from the energy storage unit (102). 10
5. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the thermal management system (100) comprises a heat exchanger (106), the heat exchanger (106) being configured to modify the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium, 15
wherein the one or more outlet channels (110a) being connected to an inlet of the heat exchanger (106), and the one or more inlet channels (110b) being connected to an outlet of the heat exchanger (106),
wherein the one or more flow characteristics being modified by the heat exchanger (106) comprising at least a temperature of the thermal medium. 20
6. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the operating state of the energy storage unit (102) being one of a charging state, a discharging state and an idle state of the energy storage unit (102).
25
7. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 6, wherein upon the determined operating state being the charging state, the set of pre-defined operations comprising:
controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium upon the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) being beyond a 30 pre-defined optimum charging threshold associated with the charging state;
controlling the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) upon the one or more cell related parameters being beyond the pre-defined optimum charging threshold,
wherein the one or more cell related parameters being controlled is a charging rate of the plurality of cells (202); and
controlling the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) upon the one or more cell related parameters being beyond a pre-defined maximum charging threshold, 5
wherein the one or more cell related parameters being controlled is the cutting off the battery management system of the plurality of cells (202) and stop the charging operation of the plurality of cells (202).
8. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in 10 claim 6, wherein upon the determined operating state being the discharging state, the set of pre-defined operations comprising:
controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium upon the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) being beyond a pre-defined optimum discharging threshold associated with the discharging state; and 15
controlling the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) upon the one or more cell related parameters being beyond a pre-defined maximum discharging threshold,
wherein the one or more cell related parameters being controlled is cutting off of the battery management system of the plurality of cells (202). 20
9. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 6, wherein upon the determined operating state being the idle state, the set of pre-defined operations comprising:
controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium upon 25 the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) being beyond a pre-defined maximum idle threshold associated with the idle state.
10. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit comprises a look-up table based on which the one or 30 more flow characteristics of the thermal medium and control of one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) is performed,
wherein the look-up table comprises the rate of change of temperature for each operating state of the energy storage unit (102) determined in real-time associated with required one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium
11. The thermal management system (100) for the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in 5 claim 1, wherein the control unit being communicatively connected to one or more pumping units (108) to control the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium.
12. A method (300) for thermal management (100) of an energy storage unit (102), the 10 method (300) comprising:
determining (304), by a control unit, an operating state of the energy storage unit (102),
wherein the operating state being associated with one or more cell related parameters of plurality of cells (202) of the energy storage unit (102); 15
detecting (306), by the control unit, the one or more flow characteristics of a thermal medium,
wherein the plurality of cells (202) being immersed in the thermal medium;
monitoring (308), by the control unit, the one or more cell related parameters 20 associated with the determined operating state;
performing (310), by the control unit, a set of pre-defined operations associated with the determined operating state,
wherein the set of pre-defined operations comprises control of the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium and control of the one or 25 more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202).
13. The method (300) for thermal management (100) of the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium being at least one of a pressure, a velocity, a discharge rate and a temperature of the thermal medium; and 30
the one or more cell related parameters being at least one of a temperature, a rate of change of temperature, a discharging rate, a charging rate of the plurality of cells (202), a turning on and cutting off of a battery management system of the plurality of cells (202).
5
14. The method (300) for thermal management (100) of the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the operating state of the energy storage unit (102) being one of a charging state, a discharging state and an idle state of the energy storage unit (102).
10
15. The method (300) for thermal management (100) of the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 14, wherein upon the determined operating state being the charging state, the set of pre-defined operations comprising:
controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium and the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) upon the one or 15 more cell related parameters being beyond an optimum charging threshold associated with the charging state;
wherein the one or more cell related parameters being controlled is a charging rate of the plurality of cells (202); and
controlling the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells 20 (202) upon the one or more cell related parameters being beyond a maximum charging threshold associated with the charging state,
wherein the one or more cell related parameters being controlled is the cutting off of the battery management system of the plurality of cells (202) and stop the charging operation of the plurality of cells (202). 25
16. The method (300) for thermal management of the energy storage unit (102) as claimed in claim 14, wherein upon the determined operating state being the discharging state, the set of pre-defined operations comprising:
controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium upon 30 the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) being beyond an optimum discharging threshold associated with the discharging state; and
controlling the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202)upon the one or more cell related parameters being beyond a maximumdischarging threshold associated with the discharging state,
wherein the one or more cell related parameters being controlled is the cutting off of the battery management system of the plurality of cells 5 (202).
17.The method (300) for thermal management of the energy storage unit (102) asclaimed in claim 14, wherein upon the determined operating state being the idle state,the set of pre-defined operations comprising:10
controlling the one or more flow characteristics of the thermal medium upon the one or more cell related parameters of the plurality of cells (202) being beyond a maximum idle threshold associated with the idle state.
15
Dated this: 31st August, 2023.