WO2025165091A1 - Heat exchanger, manufacturing method therefor, and apparatus including heat exchanger - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed are a heat exchanger, a manufacturing method therefor, and an apparatus including the heat exchanger. The disclosed heat exchanger comprises at least one heat exchange channel that performs heat exchange with a heat exchange object in a predetermined heat exchange area. The heat resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange object in a first region of the heat exchange area is different from the heat resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange object in a second region of the heat exchange area.

Description

Heat exchanger and method for manufacturing the same, and device including the heat exchanger

The present invention relates to a heat exchanger, a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, and a device including a heat exchanger.

Battery packs in electric vehicles, central processing units (CPUs) in computing devices, and graphic processing units (GPUs) consume significant amounts of power, inevitably generating significant amounts of heat. Heat exchangers can play a key role in maintaining optimal operating temperatures for various devices, including batteries, power electronics, and motors. The performance and lifespan of electric vehicle batteries and computer electronics depend heavily on efficient thermal management, and heat exchangers can play a crucial role in this process.

One of the most important considerations in heat exchanger design is improving the uniformity of heat distribution. Uneven cooling can lead to hot spots, negatively impacting the performance and durability of various components, including batteries (e.g., lithium-ion batteries) in electric vehicles (EVs). Therefore, a heat exchanger technology capable of achieving uniform heat distribution while also enabling efficient heat exchange is required.

The technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a heat exchanger that can improve the uniformity of heat distribution and increase the efficiency of heat exchange.

In addition, the technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a heat exchanger that can increase space efficiency and maximize heat exchange performance for a heat exchange target (a non-limiting example, a battery) in a flat type.

In addition, the technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to apply flow resistance evenly by allowing the heat transfer fluid to pass through a flow path of the same length regardless of which heat exchange channel it passes through.

In addition, the technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a heat exchanger that can be easily manufactured at a relatively low manufacturing cost.

In addition, a technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing the above-mentioned heat exchanger.

In addition, a technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a device including the above-described heat exchanger.

The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

According to embodiments of the present invention, a heat exchanger can be implemented that can improve the uniformity of heat distribution and enhance the efficiency of heat exchange. Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, a heat exchanger can be implemented that can increase space efficiency and maximize heat exchange performance for a heat exchange target (a non-limiting example, a battery) in a flat form. Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, a heat exchanger that can be easily manufactured at a relatively low manufacturing cost can be implemented.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a heat transfer fluid introduced into an inlet channel section can branch into a plurality of heat exchange channels and then merge into an outlet channel section. Even though the heat transfer fluid branches into a plurality of heat exchange channels, the flow path length and flow path resistance are applied consistently, thereby ensuring that the amount of heat transfer fluid passing through each of the branched heat exchange channels is uniform.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, by using heat exchange channels to which close counterflow (i.e., counterflow) is applied, which can improve the uniformity of heat distribution, it is possible to overcome the problem that could not be solved in conventional heat exchange devices, that is, the difficult problem of ensuring heat management uniformity for a heating element that has a large area and uniformly generates heat, and to obtain the effect of optimizing the uniformity of heat exchange.

In conventional technology, in order to manage a heating element placed over a wide area at a uniform temperature, a complex control system including various sensors and control actuators was required to manage the temperature uniformly. However, in the embodiment of the present invention, this is possible with a single heat exchanger (e.g., a cooler) that can be manufactured at low cost, thereby reducing management costs and lowering the initial investment cost of the equipment.

According to an exemplary embodiment, when a double-sided cooling structure is applied for thermal management of a battery pack, the thermal resistance distance of the battery cell is halved compared to the application of a single-sided cooling structure, so that the maximum temperature can be lowered by, for example, about 60%, and the maximum temperature and average temperature of each battery cell are mechanically managed uniformly, so that the thermal durability and lifespan of the battery pack are extended, thermal runaway is easily prevented, the energy efficiency of the battery pack is improved, and the charging time of the battery pack can be shortened, thereby achieving the effect of relieving inconvenience to users of electric vehicles (EVs).

In addition, when a heat exchanger according to the embodiment is applied, the reliability of the safety of electric transportation means (electric vehicles, electric-powered ships, electric-powered aircraft, electric bicycles, electric wheels, electric motorcycles, etc.) can be increased due to high mechanical reliability, and thus, it can be advantageous for eco-friendly/energy policies and electric vehicle distribution policies being promoted in many countries.

By applying the heat exchanger according to the above-described embodiments, the performance, durability, and safety of various devices can be greatly improved.

However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to the above effects, and can be expanded in various ways without departing from the technical spirit and scope of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from the top.

Fig. 2 is a plan view of a heat exchanger according to the embodiment of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of the heat exchanger of Fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of the heat exchanger of Fig. 2.

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' of the heat exchanger of Fig. 3.

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' of the heat exchanger of Fig. 4.

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate cases where the cross-sectional areas of the first connection channel portion, the second connection channel portion, the third connection channel portion, and the fourth connection channel portion change.

Figures 9 and 10 are perspective views showing a heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention viewed from below.

Figures 12 and 13 are perspective views showing a heat exchanger according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 14 to 16 are perspective views showing a heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger shown in Figs. 14 to 16 when viewed from the front.

Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger described with reference to Figs. 1 to 17.

Figures 19 to 22 are drawings showing a process of forming a plurality of first heat exchange channels and a plurality of second heat exchange channels.

Fig. 23 is a drawing showing a heat exchanger according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 24 is a perspective view showing the heat exchanger shown in Fig. 23.

Fig. 25 is a drawing showing the heat exchanger shown in Fig. 23 and a cross-section (bottom) along line A-A' of the heat exchanger.

Figures 26 to 29 are drawings showing examples of controlling thermal resistance.

Fig. 30 is a drawing showing a heat exchanger according to another exemplary embodiment.

Figure 31 is a table that summarizes examples of applying thermal resistance to various heat exchangers.

A heat exchanger is provided that performs heat exchange using a flow of a heat transfer fluid. The heat exchanger includes at least one heat exchange channel that performs heat exchange with a heat exchange target in a predetermined heat exchange region, and a thermal resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target in a first region of the heat exchange region may be different from a thermal resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target in a second region of the heat exchange region.

The heat exchanger comprises: a first port connection channel portion formed with a first port into which the heat transfer fluid is injected; a first connection channel portion extended from a first portion of the first port connection channel portion; a second connection channel portion extended from a second portion of the first port connection channel portion; a second port connection channel portion formed with a second port through which the heat transfer fluid is discharged; a third connection channel portion extended from the first portion of the second port connection channel portion; The second port connection channel portion further includes a fourth connection channel portion extending from a second portion of the second port connection channel portion, wherein the at least one heat exchange channel includes a plurality of first heat exchange channels arranged to connect one of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion with the first connection channel portion, and a plurality of second heat exchange channels arranged to connect the other of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion with the second connection channel portion, wherein the first port connection channel portion is connected to a first side end of the first connection channel portion and the second connection channel portion, and the second port connection channel portion can be connected to a second side end of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion, which is different from the first side.

The heat exchanger further includes a first rail channel; and a second rail channel, wherein the at least one heat exchange channel is connected to the first rail channel and the second rail channel and includes channels having at least one shape of a “U” shape and a “W” shape, and a heat transfer fluid introduced from a port formed on one side of the first rail channel can be branched into channels having at least one shape of a “U” shape and a “W” shape and then discharged through a port formed on the other side of the second rail channel.

The plurality of first heat exchange channels may connect between the first connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion, and the plurality of second heat exchange channels may connect between the second connection channel portion and the third connection channel portion.

At least a portion of the plurality of first heat exchange channels and at least a portion of the plurality of second heat exchange channels may be arranged alternately to provide counterflow characteristics of the heat transfer fluid.

The heat transfer fluid flowing into the first connection channel section may be branched into the plurality of first heat exchange channels, then joined at the fourth connection channel section, and discharged through the second port, and the heat transfer fluid flowing into the second connection channel section may be branched into the plurality of second heat exchange channels, then joined at the third connection channel section, and discharged through the second port.

The plurality of first heat exchange channels may connect between the first connection channel portion and the third connection channel portion, and the plurality of second heat exchange channels may connect between the second connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion.

Each of the plurality of first heat exchange channels may have a “U”-shaped structure that extends from the first connection channel portion and then bends and extends toward the third connection channel portion, and each of the plurality of second heat exchange channels may have a “U”-shaped structure that extends from the second connection channel portion and then bends and extends toward the fourth connection channel portion.

The heat transfer fluid flowing into the first connection channel section may be branched into the plurality of first heat exchange channels, then joined at the third connection channel section, and discharged through the second port, and the heat transfer fluid flowing into the second connection channel section may be branched into the plurality of second heat exchange channels, then joined at the fourth connection channel section, and discharged through the second port.

A plurality of third heat exchange channels arranged to connect one of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion with the first connection channel portion; and a plurality of fourth heat exchange channels arranged to connect the other of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion with the second connection channel portion; wherein the plurality of first heat exchange channels and the plurality of second heat exchange channels are arranged to define a first heat exchange area, and the plurality of third heat exchange channels and the plurality of fourth heat exchange channels are arranged to define a second heat exchange area at a different location from the first heat exchange channels, and a predetermined heat exchange target may be arranged between the first heat exchange area and the second heat exchange area.

The cross-sectional area of the flow path of the first connecting channel portion and the second connecting channel portion may decrease from the first side end toward the second side end, and the cross-sectional area of the flow path of the third connecting channel portion and the fourth connecting channel portion may increase from the first side end toward the second side end.

An insulating material having a higher thermal resistance than the second region may be inserted into the first region.

The at least one heat exchange channel may have a surface area in the first region that is smaller than a surface area in the second region.

A heat conduction control member is provided between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target, and the heat conduction control member may have a relatively high thermal resistance in the first region and a relatively low thermal resistance in the second region.

A thermal resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target in a first region among the heat exchange regions is higher than a thermal resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target in a second region among the heat exchange regions, and the first region may be adjacent to a region into which the heat transfer fluid is introduced.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

The embodiments of the present invention described below are provided to more clearly explain the present invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the following embodiments, and the following embodiments can be modified in various other forms.

The terminology used herein is used to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. The singular forms used herein may include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, the terms "comprise" and/or "comprising" used herein specify the presence of a stated feature, step, number, operation, element, element, and/or group thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, numbers, operations, elements, elements, and/or groups thereof. In addition, the term "connected" used herein not only means that certain elements are directly connected, but also includes a concept that indirectly connects elements by interposing another element between them.

In addition, when it is said in this specification that a certain element is located "on" another element, this includes not only cases where a certain element is in contact with another element, but also cases where another element exists between the two elements. The term "and/or" as used in this specification includes any one of the listed items and any and all combinations of one or more of them. In addition, terms of degree such as "about", "substantially", etc. as used in this specification are used to mean a range of or close to the numerical value or degree, taking into account inherent manufacturing and material tolerances, and are used to prevent infringers from unfairly using the disclosure that mentions exact or absolute numbers provided to help the understanding of this specification.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The sizes and thicknesses of areas or parts illustrated in the attached drawings may be somewhat exaggerated for clarity and convenience of explanation. Like reference numbers designate like components throughout the detailed description.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from the top.

Referring to FIG. 1, a heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention may be a device that performs heat exchange using the flow of a heat transfer fluid (heat exchange medium). The heat transfer fluid may be, for example, a cooling fluid, and the cooling fluid may be, for example, cooling water or cooling oil. Accordingly, the heat exchanger may be a type of cooling device. The heat exchanger may be a device that performs cooling on a predetermined exothermic heat exchange target (a type of heating element). However, the specific type of the heat transfer fluid is not limited to that described above.

The heat exchanger may include a first channel structure (CS10), a second channel structure (CS20), and a plurality of heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2). The first channel structure (CS10), the second channel structure (CS20), and the plurality of heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) are connected to each other and may have a pipe structure through which the heat transfer fluid flows.

The first channel structure (CS10) may include a first port connection channel portion (CC1) connected to a first port (first port) (P1) corresponding to an inlet into which the heat transfer fluid is injected, and first and second connection channel portions (CN1, CN2) extending from first and second portions of the first port connection channel portion (CC1), respectively. The first port (P1) may be an injection port.

The first port (P1) may be formed in the first port connection channel portion (CC1). The first and second connection channels (CN1, CN2) may extend from both ends of the first port connection channel portion (CC1), respectively. The first connection channel portion (CN1) may be connected to the first part (11) of the first port connection channel portion (CC1). The first connection channel portion (CN1) may extend in the second lateral direction from the first part (11) of the first port connection channel portion (CC1). The first port connection channel portion (CC1) may be connected to the first side end of the first connection channel portion (CN1). The first port connection channel portion (CC1) may be connected to the first side end of the second connection channel portion (CN2). The second connection channel portion (CN2) may be connected to the second part (12) of the first port connection channel portion (CC1). The second connection channel portion (CN2) can extend in the second lateral direction from the second portion (12) of the first port connection channel portion (CC1).

The first and second connecting channel sections (CN1, CN2) may be referred to as a type of inlet rail channel section. The first channel structure (CS10) may be a pipe structure having a bent structure.

The second channel structure (CS20) may include a second port connection channel portion (CC2) connected to a second port (first port) (P2) corresponding to an outlet through which the heat transfer fluid is discharged, and first and fourth connection channel portions (CT1, CT2) extending from first and second portions of the second port connection channel portion (CC2), respectively. The second port (P2) may be a discharge port.

The second port (P2) may be formed in the second port connection channel portion (CC2). The first and fourth connection channels (CT1, CT2) may extend from both ends of the second port connection channel portion (CC2), respectively. The third connection channel portion (CT1) may be connected to the first part (21) of the second port connection channel portion (CC2). The second port connection channel portion (CC2) may be connected to the second side end of the third connection channel portion (CT1). The second port connection channel portion (CC2) may be connected to the second side end of the fourth connection channel portion (CT2). The third connection channel portion (CT1) may extend in the first side direction from the first part (21) of the second port connection channel portion (CC2). The fourth connection channel portion (CT2) may be connected to the second part (22) of the second port connection channel portion (CC2). The fourth connection channel portion (CT2) can extend in the first lateral direction from the second portion (22) of the second port connection channel portion (CC2).

The first lateral direction and the second lateral direction can be determined by the positions of the first port (P1) and the second port (P2). The first lateral direction can be the same as or similar to the direction looking from the second port (P2) to the first port (P1), and the second lateral direction can be the same as or similar to the direction looking from the first port (P1) to the second port (P2).

The first and fourth connecting channel sections (CT1, CT2) may be considered as a type of outflow rail channel section. The second channel structure (CS20) may be a pipe structure having a bent structure.

The plane on which the second port connection channel portion (CC2) and the first and fourth connection channel portions (CT1, CT2) are arranged may be different from the plane on which the first port connection channel portion (CC1) and the first and second connection channel portions (CN1, CN2) are arranged. For example, the second port connection channel portion (CC2) and the first and fourth connection channel portions (CT1, CT2) may be arranged at a lower position (height) than the first port connection channel portion (CC1) and the first and second connection channel portions (CN1, CN2).

The second channel structure (CS20) and the first channel structure (CS10) may be disposed at different positions. For example, the second channel structure (CS20) may be disposed at a position (height) lower than the first channel structure (CS10). The first channel structure (CS10) may be disposed horizontally or substantially horizontally, and the second channel structure (CS20) may also be disposed horizontally or substantially horizontally, and the second channel structure (CS20) may be disposed at a position (height) lower than the first channel structure (CS10). In addition, the third connection channel portion (CT1) may be disposed closer to the first connection channel portion (CN1) than to the second connection channel portion (CN2), and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) may be disposed closer to the second connection channel portion (CN2) than to the first connection channel portion (CN1).

The heat exchanger may include a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) arranged to connect one of the third connection channel portion (CT1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) with the first connection channel portion (CN1). The heat exchanger may include a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) arranged to connect the other of the third connection channel portion (CT1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) with the second connection channel portion (CN2).

FIGS. 1 to 11 relate to an embodiment in which a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) connect between a first connection channel section (CE1) and a fourth connection channel section (CT2), and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) connect between a second connection channel section (CN2) and a third connection channel section (CT1).

FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 relate to an embodiment in which a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) connect between a first connection channel section (CE1) and a third connection channel section (CT1), and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) connect between a second connection channel section (CN2) and a fourth connection channel section (CT2).

Referring to FIG. 1, the heat exchanger may include a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) arranged to connect a first connection channel portion (CN1) and a fourth connection channel portion (CT2), and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) arranged to connect a second connection channel portion (CN2) and a third connection channel portion (CT1). At least some of the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and at least some of the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may be arranged alternately to provide counterflow characteristics of the heat transfer fluid. The plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may be arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction (extension direction) of the first and fourth connection channel portions (CT1, CT2). In addition, the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may be alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction (extension direction) of the first and second connecting channel portions (CN1, CN2). The main areas (most areas) of the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the main areas (most areas) of the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may be arranged side by side and alternately on one plane. The plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may be arranged to provide a planar heat exchange area.

The first and second heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) may be effective heat exchange channels that substantially generate heat exchange. Through the first heat exchange channel (CE1), a heat transfer fluid may flow in a first direction from the first connection channel portion (CN1) toward the fourth connection channel portion (CT2), and through the second heat exchange channel (CE2), a heat transfer fluid may flow in a second direction from the second connection channel portion (CN2) toward the third connection channel portion (CT1). The first direction and the second direction may be opposite directions. Therefore, the first and second heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) that are alternately and repeatedly arranged may provide a counterflow characteristic in which the heat transfer fluid flows in the opposite direction in the adjacent heat exchange channels.

According to one embodiment, in the first channel structure (CS10), the first port connection channel portion (CC1) and the first and second connection channel portions (CN1, CN2) may form a first T-shaped structure. In addition, in the second channel structure (CS20), the second port connection channel portion (CC2) and the first and fourth connection channel portions (CT1, CT2) may form a second T-shaped structure. The first channel structure (CS10) may be arranged above the second channel structure (CS20).

According to one embodiment, the first T-shaped structure may have an arrangement direction that is rotated by about 180° with respect to the second T-shaped structure. That is, the open portion of the T-shaped structure of the first channel structure (CS10) and the open portion of the T-shaped structure of the second channel structure (CS20) may be arranged on opposite sides. In this case, the first port (P1) and the second port (P2) may be arranged on opposite sides. When viewed from above, a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may be arranged between the first port (P1) and the second port (P2).

According to one embodiment, the first connection channel portion (CN1) may be arranged directly above or in an area adjacent to the third connection channel portion (CT1), and the second connection channel portion (CN2) may be arranged directly above or in an area adjacent to the fourth connection channel portion (CT2). In other words, the third connection channel portion (CT1) may be arranged directly below or in an area adjacent to the first connection channel portion (CN1), and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) may be arranged directly below or in an area adjacent to the second connection channel portion (CN2). When viewed from above, the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the third connection channel portion (CT1) may be arranged on the same vertical line. Additionally, when viewed from above, the second connection channel portion (CN2) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) may be arranged on the same vertical line. However, in some cases, when viewed from above, the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the third connection channel portion (CT1) may not be arranged on the same vertical line but may be arranged horizontally misaligned. Similarly, when viewed from above, the second connection channel portion (CN2) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) may not be arranged on the same vertical line but may be arranged horizontally misaligned.

According to one embodiment, the heat exchanger may be configured to provide a planar heat exchange area. Accordingly, the heat exchanger may be a type of planar heat exchanger. For example, the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may have a piping structure in which at least one of the upper surface and the lower surface is flat (generally flat), and the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may be arranged to extend in parallel and adjacent to each other to provide a flat heat exchange area.

In the present embodiment, a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may have a structure that is bent downward and extended with respect to the first channel structure (CS10). In this case, a heat exchange area may be defined on the upper surface of the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2), and the heat exchange area may perform heat exchange with respect to the lower surface of a heat exchange target. A predetermined heat exchange target may be placed on the heat exchange area, and heat exchange may occur on the lower surface of the heat exchange target. Therefore, the heat exchanger of FIG. 1 may be a device for lower surface heat exchange.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the heat exchange object may include, but is not limited to, a battery. The battery may include a battery cell, a battery module, or a battery pack. The battery may have at least a partially planar structure. The battery may be applied to electric vehicles (electric vehicles, electric-powered ships, electric-powered aircraft, electric bicycles, electric wheels, electric motorcycles, etc.) or may have other uses. However, the type of the heat exchange object is not limited to a battery and may vary depending on the case. For example, the heat exchange object may include a CPU, GPU, etc. of a computing device, other power/electronic devices, or an electric motor (i.e., a motor).

Fig. 2 is a plan view of a heat exchanger according to the embodiment of Fig. 1.

Referring to FIG. 2, a heat exchange area (A1) in which a predetermined heat exchange target is placed can be defined on one surface (upper surface) of a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2).

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of the heat exchanger of Fig. 2.

Referring to FIG. 3, a cross-sectional structure of a first heat exchange channel (CE1) of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment can be confirmed. A heat transfer fluid can flow in a first direction from a first connection channel portion (CN1) toward a fourth connection channel portion (CT2) through the first heat exchange channel (CE1). When the heat transfer fluid is a cooling fluid, the temperature of the cooling fluid can increase by heat exchange with a heat exchange target as it moves from the first connection channel portion (CN1) to the fourth connection channel portion (CT2). Therefore, the heat exchange performance by the heat transfer fluid can decrease as it moves from the first connection channel portion (CN1) to the fourth connection channel portion (CT2).

Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of the heat exchanger of Fig. 2.

Referring to FIG. 4, a cross-sectional structure of a second heat exchange channel (CE2) of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment can be confirmed. A heat transfer fluid can flow in a second direction from a second connection channel portion (CN2) toward a third connection channel portion (CT1) through the second heat exchange channel (CE2). The second direction may be an opposite direction to the first direction. When the heat transfer fluid is a cooling fluid, the temperature of the cooling fluid may increase by heat exchange with a heat exchange target as it moves from the second connection channel portion (CN2) to the third connection channel portion (CT1). Therefore, the heat exchange performance by the heat transfer fluid may decrease as it moves from the second connection channel portion (CN2) to the third connection channel portion (CT1).

Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the first and second heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) that are alternately and repeatedly arranged can provide a counterflow characteristic in which the heat transfer fluid flows in the opposite direction in the adjacent heat exchange channels.

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' of the heat exchanger of Fig. 3.

Referring to FIG. 5, the flow of heat transfer fluid in the first channel structure (CS10) of the heat exchanger according to the embodiment can be confirmed. The heat transfer fluid injected into the first port (P1) can flow through the first port connection channel portion (CC1) to the first and second connection channel portions (CN1, CN2). In the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the second connection channel portion (CN2), the heat transfer fluid can flow from the first side to the second side.

The heat transfer fluid may flow from the first and second connection channel sections (CN1, CN2) to a plurality of first and second heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2). When the heat transfer fluid is a cooling fluid, a low-temperature cooling fluid may be supplied toward the heat exchange area from both sides of the heat exchange area. The first port (P1) may be arranged in the center of the first port connection channel section (CC1) or in an area adjacent thereto.

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' of the heat exchanger of Fig. 4.

Referring to FIG. 6, the flow of the heat transfer fluid in the second channel structure (CS20) of the heat exchanger according to the embodiment can be confirmed. The heat transfer fluid that has passed through the plurality of first and second heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2), i.e., the heat transfer fluid that has passed through the heat exchange region, can flow to the first and fourth connection channel portions (CT1, CT2), and can flow from the first and fourth connection channel portions (CT1, CT2) through the second port connection channel portion (CC2) to the second port (P2). The second port (P2) can be arranged in the center of the second port connection channel portion (CC2) or an area adjacent thereto. When the heat transfer fluid is a cooling fluid, the cooling fluid, whose temperature has increased while passing through the heat exchange region, can be discharged to the second port (P2).

Regardless of which of the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) the heat transfer fluid passes through, the sum of the length of the section through which the heat transfer fluid passes through the first connection channel portion (CN1), the length of the section through which the heat transfer fluid passes through the first heat exchange channel (CE1), and the length of the section through which the heat transfer fluid passes through the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) can be maintained the same. Regardless of which of the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) the heat transfer fluid passes through, the sum of the length of the section through which the heat transfer fluid passes through the second connection channel portion (CN2), the length of the section through which the heat transfer fluid passes through the second heat exchange channel (CE2), and the length of the section through which the heat transfer fluid passes through the third connection channel portion (CT1) can be maintained the same.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, since the first and second heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) that are alternately and repeatedly arranged can provide a counterflow characteristic in which the heat transfer fluid flows in the opposite direction in the adjacent heat exchange channels, the uniformity of heat distribution can be improved throughout the heat exchange area and the efficiency of heat exchange can be increased. As the heat transfer fluid flows in the first direction through the first heat exchange channel (CE1), the heat exchange performance can gradually decrease, and as the heat transfer fluid flows in the second direction opposite to the first direction through the second heat exchange channel (CE2), the heat exchange performance can gradually decrease, so that the uniformity of heat distribution and the uniformity of heat exchange performance can be improved overall by the counterflow. Therefore, when cooling a heat exchange target such as a battery, a uniform cooling characteristic can be secured so that hot spots do not occur, and as a result, the safety, durability, and lifespan of the battery can be improved. In particular, the effect of maximizing the heat exchange performance for a flat-type battery surface can be obtained.

In one embodiment, the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) can all share one first port (P1) and one second port (P2). For each of the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2), a heat transfer fluid can be injected into one first port (P1) and discharged through one second port (P2). Furthermore, in one embodiment, the flow path lengths from the first port (P1) to the second port (P2) for the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) can all be the same or substantially the same. Since the lengths of the branch channels can all be the same or substantially the same, the flow rates can be the same or substantially the same in all channels. In addition, since the inlet (i.e., P1) and the outlet (i.e., P2) are the same, the forward flow resistance (i.e., flow pressure) can be the same or substantially the same for all heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2). The pressure difference between the inlet (i.e., P1) and the outlet (i.e., P2) can be the same or substantially the same for all heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2). Therefore, the same flow rate can flow in all channels, and the uniformity of heat distribution and heat exchange characteristics due to counterflow can be improved.

Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, a highly space-efficient heat exchanger can be realized. In other words, it is possible to secure excellent heat exchange performance with a planar heat exchanger having a relatively small volume. Therefore, the heat exchange performance for a heat exchange target (a non-limiting example, a battery) can be maximized in a flat form. Furthermore, the heat exchanger according to embodiments of the present invention has the advantage of being easy to manufacture at a relatively low manufacturing cost.

The cross-sectional areas of the first connection channel portion (CN1), the second connection channel portion (CN2), the third connection channel portion (CT1), and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) may vary. Of course, for ease of manufacturing, the cross-sectional areas of the first connection channel portion (CN1), the second connection channel portion (CN2), the third connection channel portion (CT1), and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) may be maintained constant.

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate cases where the cross-sectional area of the first connection channel portion (CN1), the second connection channel portion (CN2), the third connection channel portion (CT1), and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) changes.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the cross-sectional areas of the flow paths of the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the second connection channel portion (CN2) may decrease from the first side end to the second side end. In the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the second connection channel portion (CN2), the amount of heat transfer fluid passing from the first side end to the second side end may decrease. Since the cross-sectional areas of the flow paths of the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the second connection channel portion (CN2) decrease from the first side end to the second side end, the change in the flow velocity of the heat transfer fluid in the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the second connection channel portion (CN2) may not be large.

The cross-sectional areas of the flow paths of the third connection channel portion (CT1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) may decrease from the second side end to the first side end. In the third connection channel portion (CT1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2), the amount of heat transfer fluid passing from the first side end to the second side end may increase. Since the cross-sectional areas of the flow paths of the third connection channel portion (CT1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) decrease from the second side end to the first side end, the change in the flow velocity of the heat transfer fluid in the third connection channel portion (CT1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) may not be large.

As described above, by controlling the cross-sectional area of the first connection channel portion (CN1), the second connection channel portion (CN2), the third connection channel portion (CT1), and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2), the amount of heat transfer fluid flowing through each of the first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the second heat exchange channels (CE2) can be maintained substantially constant.

Figures 9 and 10 are perspective views showing a heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the heat exchanger viewed from above, and Figure 10 is a perspective view of the heat exchanger viewed from below.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the heat exchanger according to the present embodiment may have a similar configuration and characteristics as those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. Reference numerals in FIGS. 9 and 10 may be the same as or correspond to those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.

The heat exchanger of FIGS. 9 and 10 may be, as a non-limiting example, a heat exchanger for cooling a battery pack. In the heat exchanger, a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may be arranged to form a plurality of groups, and the plurality of groups may be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction. The plurality of groups may be arranged in a row, and a predetermined empty space may be provided between the plurality of groups. A relatively large-sized battery pack or the like may be cooled by the heat exchanger. However, the specific structure of the heat exchanger illustrated in FIG. 11 is merely exemplary, and the heat exchange target applied thereto is not limited to a battery pack.

Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a heat exchanger according to an embodiment of the present invention viewed from below.

Referring to FIG. 11, a heat exchanger according to the present embodiment may include a first channel structure (CS10), a second channel structure (CS20), and a plurality of heat exchange channels (CE1', CE2'). The first channel structure (CS10) and the second channel structure (CS20) may have the same structure as the first channel structure (CS10) and the second channel structure (CS20) described in FIG. 1, respectively. The first channel structure (CS10) may include a first port connection channel portion (CC1) connected to a first port (P1) corresponding to an inlet into which the heat transfer fluid is injected, and first and second connection channel portions (CN1, CN2) extending from first and second portions, respectively, of the first port connection channel portion (CC1). The second channel structure (CS20) may include a second port connection channel portion (CC2) connected to a second port (P2) corresponding to an outlet through which the heat transfer fluid is discharged, and first and fourth connection channel portions (CT1, CT2) extending from first and second portions of the second port connection channel portion (CC2), respectively. The heat exchanger may include a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1') arranged to connect the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2), and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2') arranged to connect the second connection channel portion (CN2) and the third connection channel portion (CT1). At least some of the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1') and at least some of the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2') may be arranged alternately to provide counterflow characteristics of the heat transfer fluid.

In the present embodiment, a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1') and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2') may have a structure that is bent upward and extended with respect to the second channel structure (CS20). A heat exchange area may be defined on the lower surface of the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1') and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2'), and the heat exchange area may perform heat exchange with respect to the upper surface of a heat exchange target. A predetermined heat exchange target may be disposed below the heat exchange area, and heat exchange may occur on the upper surface of the heat exchange target. Therefore, the heat exchanger of FIG. 11 may be a device for upper surface heat exchange.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a heat exchanger according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 12, a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) may connect between a first connection channel portion (CN1) and a third connection channel portion (CT1). A plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may connect between a second connection channel portion (CN2) and a fourth connection channel portion (CT2). Each of the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) may have a "U" shape. For example, each of the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) may extend in a first direction from the first connection channel portion (CN1) and then bend near the center of the heat exchanger to extend in a second direction (toward the third connection channel portion (CT1). Each of the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may have a "U" shape. For example, each of the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may extend in the second direction from the second connection channel portion (CN2) and then bend near the center of the heat exchanger to extend in the first direction (toward the fourth connection channel portion (CT2)).

The heat transfer fluid flowing into the first connection channel unit (CN1) may be branched into a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1), then joined at the third connection channel unit (CT1) and discharged through the second port (P2). The heat transfer fluid flowing into the second connection channel unit (CN2) may be branched into a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2), then joined at the fourth connection channel unit (CT2), and then discharged through the second port (P2).

Fig. 13 shows an example of a modified heat exchanger shown in Fig. 12.

Referring to FIG. 13, each of the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and the second heat exchange channel (CE2) may have a 'W' shape. The first heat exchange channel (CE1) may be connected to the first connection channel portion (CN1) at two points and connected to the third connection channel portion (CT1) at one point. The first heat exchange channel (CE1) may be connected to the first connection channel portion (CN1) at one point and connected to the third connection channel portion (CT2) at two points. The second heat exchange channel (CE2) may be connected to the second connection channel portion (CN2) at two points and connected to the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) at one point. The second heat exchange channel (CE2) may be connected to the second connection channel portion (CN2) at one point and connected to the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) at two points.

According to an embodiment, the flow path lengths from the first port (P1) to the second port (P2) for the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may all be the same or substantially the same. Since the lengths of the branch channels may all be the same or substantially the same, the flow rates may be the same or substantially the same in all channels. Furthermore, since the inlet (i.e., P1) and the outlet (i.e., P2) are the same, the forward flow path resistance (i.e., flow path pressure) may be the same or substantially the same for all heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2).

Figures 14 to 16 are perspective views showing a heat exchanger according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 is a perspective view of the heat exchanger viewed from above, and Figures 15 and 16 are perspective views viewed from below.

Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, the heat exchanger according to the present embodiment may be a double-sided heat exchange device. In other words, the heat exchanger may be configured to perform double-sided heat exchange (e.g., double-sided cooling) on a heat exchange target.

The heat exchanger may include a first channel structure (CS10), a second channel structure (CS20), a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1), and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2). The first channel structure (CS10), the second channel structure (CS20), the plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1), and the plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) may be the same as or similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, respectively.

The heat exchanger may further include a plurality of third heat exchange channels (CE3) arranged to connect the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) and a plurality of fourth heat exchange channels (CE4) arranged to connect the second connection channel portion (CN2) and the third connection channel portion (CT1). At least some of the plurality of third heat exchange channels (CE3) and at least some of the plurality of fourth heat exchange channels (CE4) may be arranged alternately to provide counterflow characteristics of the heat transfer fluid. The plurality of third heat exchange channels (CE3) and the plurality of fourth heat exchange channels (CE4) may be arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction (extension direction) of the first and fourth connection channel portions (CT1, CT2). Additionally, a plurality of third heat exchange channels (CE3) and a plurality of fourth heat exchange channels (CE4) may be alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction (extension direction) of the first and second connecting channel portions (CN1, CN2). A main area (most area) of the plurality of third heat exchange channels (CE3) and a main area (most area) of the plurality of fourth heat exchange channels (CE4) may be arranged side by side and alternately on one plane. The plurality of third heat exchange channels (CE3) and the plurality of fourth heat exchange channels (CE4) may be arranged to provide a planar heat exchange area.

A plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) can be arranged to define a first heat exchange area at a position lower than a first channel structure (CS10), and a plurality of third heat exchange channels (CE3) and a plurality of fourth heat exchange channels (CE4) can be arranged to define a second heat exchange area at a position higher than a second channel structure (CS20). The first and second heat exchange areas may be planar heat exchange areas. A predetermined heat exchange target may be disposed between the first and second heat exchange areas. The heat exchanger can perform heat exchange with respect to a lower surface and an upper surface of the heat exchange target.

Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger shown in Figs. 14 to 16 when viewed from the front.

Referring to Fig. 17, the second heat exchange channel (CE2) connects between the second connection channel portion (CN2) and the third connection channel portion (CT1), and can perform heat exchange in the first heat exchange area on the lower surface of the heat exchanger. The fourth heat exchange channel (CE4) connects between the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2), and can perform heat exchange in the second heat exchange area on the lower surface of the heat exchanger. Through this, the heat exchanger can have a double-sided cooling structure.

If the heat exchanger shown in Fig. 17 further includes a third heat exchange channel and a fourth heat exchange channel that perform heat exchange in the second heat exchange region on the upper surface of the heat exchanger, double-sided heat exchange can be performed. In this case, the third heat exchange channel may be arranged on the upper surface of the heat exchanger while connecting between the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the third connection channel portion (CT1), and the fourth heat exchange channel may be arranged on the upper surface of the heat exchanger while connecting between the second connection channel portion (CN2) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2).

According to an embodiment of the present invention, when a double-sided cooling structure is applied for thermal management of a battery pack, the thermal resistance distance of the battery cell is halved compared to when a single-sided cooling structure is applied, so that the maximum temperature can be lowered by, for example, about 60%, and the maximum temperature and average temperature of each battery cell are mechanically managed uniformly, so that the thermal durability and lifespan of the battery pack are extended, thermal runaway is easily prevented, the energy efficiency of the battery pack is improved, and the charging time of the battery pack can be shortened, thereby relieving inconvenience to users of electric vehicles (EVs), etc.

Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger described with reference to Figs. 1 to 17.

Referring to FIG. 18, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger may include a step (S10) of forming a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2). Although not shown in the drawing, a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger capable of double-sided heat exchange may further include a step of forming a plurality of third heat exchange channels (CE3) and a plurality of fourth heat exchange channels (CE4).

Hereinafter, a process of forming a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) by step S10 of FIG. 18 will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 to 22.

Figures 19 to 22 are drawings showing a process of forming a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) and a plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2).

Referring to Fig. 19, a structure can be prepared in which a plurality of channel members (CE10) are arranged side by side and adjacent to each other. Each of the plurality of channel members (CE10) can be arranged side by side so as to extend in a predetermined direction. The plurality of channel members (CE10) can be arranged so as to be adjacent to each other in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction. The plurality of channel members (CE10) can be arranged on a single plane. The structure of Fig. 19 can be a type of extruded product (extruded material). In other words, the structure of Fig. 19 can be manufactured through an extrusion process.

Referring to Fig. 20, a gap between the channel members (CE10) can be formed by processing a portion between the plurality of channel members (CE10). Accordingly, a gap space between the channel members (CE10) can be secured. As a result, the plurality of channel members (CE10) can be made capable of bending.

Referring to Fig. 21, bending processing (primary bending processing) can be performed on some of the channels (CE11) among the plurality of channel members (CE10). The first group of channels (CE11) can be bent. The first group of channels (CE11) can include odd-numbered (or even-numbered) channels on one side and even-numbered (or odd-numbered) channels on the other side.

Referring to Fig. 22, bending processing (secondary bending processing) can be performed on some other channels (CE12) among the plurality of channel members (CE10). The second group of channels (CE12) can be bent. The second group of channels (CE12) can include even-numbered (or odd-numbered) channels on one side and odd-numbered (or even-numbered) channels on the other side. As a non-limiting example, the odd-numbered channels can correspond to the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and the even-numbered channels can correspond to the second heat exchange channel (CE2).

A heat exchange channel structure including a plurality of first heat exchange channels and a plurality of second heat exchange channels described with reference to FIG. 1, etc., can be manufactured through the processes of FIGS. 19 to 22.

Referring again to FIG. 18, in step S20, a plurality of first heat exchange channels (CE1) can be connected to one of the third connection channel unit (CT1) and the fourth connection channel unit (CT2) and the first connection channel unit (CN1). The plurality of second heat exchange channels (CE2) can be connected to the other of the third connection channel unit (CT1) and the fourth connection channel unit (CT2) and the first connection channel unit (CN1).

For example, the heat exchanger illustrated with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 can be manufactured by connecting the first heat exchange channel (CE1) to the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2) at step S20 and connecting the second heat exchange channel (CE2) to the second connection channel portion (CN2) and the third connection channel portion (CT1). As another example, the heat exchanger illustrated with reference to FIG. 9 can be manufactured by connecting the first heat exchange channels (CE1) to the first connection channel portion (CN1) and the third connection channel portion (CT1) at step S20 and connecting the second heat exchange channels (CE2) to the second connection channel portion (CN2) and the fourth connection channel portion (CT2).

At step S30, the first part (11) of the first port connection channel part (CC1) and the first side end of the first connection channel part (CN1) can be connected. The second part (12) of the first port connection channel part (CC1) and the first side end of the second connection channel part (CN2) can be connected.

The first part (21) of the second port connection channel part (CC2) and the first side end of the third connection channel part (CT1) can be connected. The second part (22) of the first port connection channel part (CC1) and the second side end of the fourth connection channel part (CT2) can be connected.

This manufacturing method can be similarly applied to manufacturing the heat exchangers described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 17.

Below, an embodiment of controlling heat exchange characteristics by varying the thermal resistance of a heat exchanger depending on the area is described.

Fig. 23 is a drawing showing a heat exchanger according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 24 is a perspective view showing the heat exchanger shown in Fig. 23.

Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, the heat exchanger may include at least one heat exchange channel (CE1, CE2) that performs heat exchange with a heat exchange target in a predetermined heat exchange area (A1). According to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the heat exchanger may include two heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2). With reference to FIG. 23, in the first heat exchange channel (CE1), the heat transfer fluid may flow in a left-to-right direction. In the second heat exchange channel (CE2), the heat transfer fluid may flow in a right-to-left direction.

The thermal resistance between the heat exchange channel (CE1, CE2) and the heat exchange target in the first region (R1) of the heat exchange region (A1) may be smaller than the thermal resistance between the heat exchange channel (CE1, CE2) and the heat exchange target in the second region (R2) of the heat exchange region (A1).

Thermal resistance can be a parameter that quantifies the degree to which heat is transferred (or the degree to which heat transfer is impeded). The thermal resistance between two different points (or regions) can be proportional to the temperature difference between the two points (or regions) divided by the heat flow (the amount of heat flowing per unit time) between the two points (or regions). Thermal resistance can also be proportional to the inverse of thermal conductivity. A lower thermal resistance indicates relatively good heat exchange, while a higher thermal resistance indicates relatively poor heat exchange.

Heat exchange between the heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) and the heat exchange target can occur more effectively in the second region (R2) than in the first region (R1). When the heat transfer fluid functions as a cooling fluid, the heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) in the second region (R2) can cool the heat exchange target more effectively than in the first region (R1).

Based on Fig. 23, the heat transfer fluid can flow in a left-to-right direction in the first heat exchange channel (CE1). The temperature difference between the heat transfer fluid and the heat exchange target may be relatively large on the left side of the first heat exchange channel (CE1) where the heat transfer fluid is introduced. On the other hand, the temperature difference between the heat transfer fluid and the heat exchange target may be relatively small on the right side of the first heat exchange channel (CE1) where the heat transfer fluid is discharged. Therefore, when the thermal resistance between the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and the heat exchange target is constant, relatively more heat exchange may occur on the left side of the first heat exchange channel (CE1), and relatively less heat exchange may occur on the right side of the first heat exchange channel (CE1).

Likewise, on the left side of the second heat exchange channel (CE2), the temperature difference between the heat exchange fluid and the heat exchange target may be relatively small, and on the right side of the second heat exchange channel (CE2), the temperature difference between the heat exchange fluid and the heat exchange target may be relatively large. When the thermal resistance between the second heat exchange channel (CE2) and the heat exchange target is constant, relatively little heat exchange may occur on the left side of the second heat exchange channel (CE2), and relatively much heat exchange may occur on the right side of the second heat exchange channel (CE2).

If heat exchange occurs unevenly, heat exchange efficiency decreases, and temperature deviations can occur in the heat exchange target, potentially reducing its durability. If the heat exchange target is a battery, uneven heat exchange can prevent the temperature of the battery cells from being controlled evenly, potentially leading to thermal runaway or a shortened battery life.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, heat exchange can occur relatively more uniformly by making the thermal resistances of the first region (R1) and the second region (R2) different. The first region (R1) can be adjacent to a region in the heat exchange region (A1) into which a heat transfer fluid is introduced. For example, in a region in the heat exchange region (A1) where the first heat exchange channel (CE1) is arranged, the heat transfer fluid can be introduced from the left and discharged to the right. Accordingly, in the region where the first heat exchange channel (CE1) is arranged, the first region (R1) can be located on the left, and the second region (R2) can be located on the right.

In the area where the second heat exchange channel (CE2) is arranged among the heat exchange areas (A1), the heat transfer fluid can be introduced from the right side and discharged to the left side. Accordingly, in the area where the second heat exchange channel (CE2) is arranged, the first area (R1) can be located on the right side and the second area (R2) can be located on the left side.

In a first region (R1) in a heat exchange area (A1) where the temperature difference between at least one of the heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) and a heat exchange target is large, the thermal resistance may be relatively large. In a second region (R2) in a heat exchange area (A1) where the temperature difference between at least one of the heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) and a heat exchange target is small, the thermal resistance may be relatively small. By controlling the thermal resistance, heat exchange can occur uniformly in the heat exchange area (A1). According to an embodiment of the present invention, the uniformity of heat distribution can be improved throughout the heat exchange area, and the efficiency of heat exchange can be increased. Therefore, when cooling a heat exchange target such as a battery, uniform cooling characteristics can be secured so that hot spots do not occur, and as a result, the safety, durability, and lifespan of the battery can be improved.

In the first region (R1), an insulating material capable of increasing thermal resistance between the heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) and the heat exchange target may be disposed. The insulating material may be disposed in a manner of being coated on the surface of the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and/or the second heat exchange channel (CE2). As another example, the insulating material may be disposed on a portion of a heat conduction control member provided between the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and/or the second heat exchange channel (CE2) and the heat exchange target. The heat conduction control member may include a heat conduction medium layer that conducts heat between the heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) and the heat exchange target. A metal having a relatively high thermal conductivity may be disposed in the second region (R2) of the heat conduction medium layer. Materials having a high thermal conductivity include metals such as copper, aluminum, silver, and iron, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. An insulating material having a relatively low thermal conductivity may be disposed in the first region (R1) of the heat conduction medium layer. Materials for insulation include, but are not limited to, glass fiber, aerogel, silicone foam, and mineral wool.

Fig. 25 is a drawing showing a heat exchanger and a cross-section (lower side) taken along line A-A' of the heat exchanger shown in Fig. 23. The lower cross-section of Fig. 25 shows a heat exchange target (B10), a heat conduction control member (L10), and a first heat exchange channel (CE1).

Referring to FIG. 25, a heat conduction control member (L10) may be provided between a first heat exchange channel (CE1) and a heat exchange target (B10). The heat conduction control member (L10) may serve as a passage through which heat energy moves between the heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) and the heat exchange target (B10). The heat conduction control member (L10) may include a heat conduction medium layer. The thermal resistance of the heat conduction control member (L10) may be relatively high in the first region (R1). The thermal resistance of the heat conduction control member (L10) may be relatively low in the second region (R2). In the first region (R1), the temperature difference between the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and the heat exchange target (B10) may be relatively large, while the thermal resistance of the heat conduction control member (L10) may be relatively high. In the second region (R2), the temperature difference between the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and the heat exchange target (B10) may be relatively small, while the thermal resistance of the heat conduction control member (L10) may be relatively small.

In the first region (R1), an insulating material with high thermal resistance may be placed, and in the second region (R2), a metal material with low thermal resistance may be placed.

As another example, a metal material with low thermal resistance (high thermal conductivity) may be placed in the second region (R2), and a gap (air medium) may be formed in the first region (R1). Since the thermal resistance of air is generally higher than that of a metal such as copper, forming the first region (R1) as a gap may result in the thermal resistance of the first region (R1) being greater than that of the second region (R2).

Thermal resistance can be controlled in a variety of ways.

Figures 26 to 29 are drawings showing examples of controlling thermal resistance.

Referring to FIGS. 26 to 29, in a first heat exchange channel (CE1) through which a heat transfer fluid flows from left to right, a first region (R1) may be formed on the left and a second region (R2) may be formed on the right. In a second heat exchange channel (CE2) through which a heat transfer fluid flows from right to left, a first region (R1) may be formed on the right and a second region (R2) may be formed on the left.

Referring to Fig. 26, an insulating material may be arranged in the first region (R1). The insulating material may have a shape that at least partially narrows in the direction in which the heat transfer fluid flows. By having the insulating material having a shape that narrows in width, the thermal resistance can gradually change in the direction of the flow of the heat transfer fluid even within the first region (R1). The effect of the temperature of the heat transfer fluid gradually changing within the first region (R1) can be offset using the thermal resistance. By having the insulating material having a shape that narrows in width, heat exchange can be more uniform.

Referring to FIG. 27, the width (or heat exchange cross-sectional area) of the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and the second heat exchange channel (CE2) in the first region (R1) may be smaller than that in the second region (R2). Since the width (or heat exchange cross-sectional area) of the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and the second heat exchange channel (CE2) in the first region (R1) is relatively small, heat exchange may be limited accordingly. As a result, the thermal resistance of the first region (R1) may be greater than the thermal resistance of the second region (R2).

Referring to Fig. 28, the method using the insulation material shown in Fig. 5a and the method using the width (or heat exchange cross-sectional area) of the heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) can be used together. The method using the insulation material can also be replaced with the method using the gap described above. Referring to Fig. 5c, in the first region (R1), the width (or heat exchange cross-sectional area) of the heat exchange channels (CE1, CE2) is relatively small, and a material having a relatively high thermal resistance can be used for the heat conduction control member.

Referring to FIG. 29, a first heat exchange channel (CE1) and a second heat exchange channel (CE2) can perform heat exchange for a plurality of battery cells (C10). A first region with high thermal resistance may be formed in a region where a heat exchange fluid flows into the first heat exchange channel (CE1). An insulating material (H10) may be arranged in the region where the heat exchange fluid flows into the first heat exchange channel (CE1). A first region with high thermal resistance may be formed not only in the region where the heat exchange fluid flows into the first heat exchange channel (CE1) but also at an end where the heat exchange fluid is discharged. That is, an insulating material (H11) may be arranged in the region where the heat exchange fluid is discharged from the first heat exchange channel (CE1). Similarly, an insulating material may be arranged in the second heat exchange channel (CE2) not only in the region where the heat exchange fluid flows into but also at an end where the heat exchange fluid is discharged. Additionally, insulation (H13) may be added to the area between the first heat exchange channel (CE1) and the second heat exchange channel (CE2).

The insulation (H10) may be another form of thermal resistance structure implemented by reducing the cross-sectional area of the air gap or the first heat exchange channel (CE1) to increase thermal resistance.

As shown in Fig. 29, by distributing the thermal resistance structure in the vertical direction of Fig. 29, the vertical temperature deviation of the battery cells (C10) can be reduced.

A heat exchanger including a thermal resistance is described with reference to FIGS. 26 to 29. The shape of the heat exchanger to which the thermal resistance is applied can be varied in various ways.

For example, according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, a heat transfer fluid may be introduced from a first connection channel portion (CN1) into a first heat exchange channel (CE1), and a heat transfer fluid may be introduced from a second connection channel portion (CN2) into a second heat exchange channel (CE2). Accordingly, a portion adjacent to a portion connected to the first connection channel portion (CN1) among the first heat exchange channel (CE1) having a 'U' shape may become a first region (R1). In addition, a portion adjacent to a portion connected to the second connection channel portion (CN2) among the second heat exchange channel (CE2) having a 'U' shape may become a first region (R1).

According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 13, a heat transfer fluid may be introduced into a first heat exchange channel (CE1) from a first connection channel portion (CN1), and a heat transfer fluid may be introduced into a second heat exchange channel (CE2) from a second connection channel portion (CN2). Accordingly, a portion adjacent to both end portions connected to the first connection channel portion (CN1) among the first heat exchange channel (CE1) having a 'W' shape may become a first region (R1). In addition, a portion adjacent to both end portions connected to the second connection channel portion (CN2) among the second heat exchange channel (CE2) having a 'W' shape may become a first region (R1).

Fig. 30 is a drawing showing a heat exchanger according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 30, the heat exchanger may include an inlet rail channel (101) through which heat transfer fluid is introduced from the outside, an outlet rail channel (102) through which heat transfer fluid is discharged to the outside, a heat exchange channel (103) which is a tubular passage branching from the inlet rail channel (101) and connected to the outlet rail channel (102), and a heat exchange area (104) which is a portion through which heat transfer fluid moves and exchanges heat, and which is composed of a plurality of heat exchange channels (103).

Heat transfer fluid can be introduced from outside the heat exchanger through the inlet rail channel (101).

For example, a heat transfer fluid may be introduced into a port (P11) of an inlet rail channel (101). The heat transfer fluid introduced into the port (P11) may move along the inlet rail channel (101) and then branch into a plurality of heat exchange channels (103).

The heat transfer fluid introduced into the inlet rail channel (101) may be transferred to the heat exchange channel (103). A plurality of heat exchange channels (103) may be formed between the inlet rail channel (101) and the outlet rail channel (102). The heat exchange channels (103) may extend from the inlet rail channel (101) and be connected to the outlet rail channel (102) while having a U-turn shape by bending. Although the heat exchange channels (103) are shown as having a 'U' shape in FIG. 30, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the heat exchange channels (103) may have an 'm' shape or a 'W' shape as shown in FIG. 13. For example, each of the heat exchange channels (103) may be connected to the inlet rail channel (101) through one line, branch off at an edge, and then branch off into two pipes to be connected to the outlet rail channel (103) at two places. As another example, each of the heat exchange channels (103) may be connected to the inlet rail channel (101) through two lines, and then joined at the edges and connected to the outlet rail channel (103) at one point.

In Fig. 30, heat exchange channels (130) are shown formed on both sides of the inlet rail channel (101). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The heat exchange channels (130) may be formed on only one side (or one direction) of the inlet rail channel (101).

The heat transfer fluids that pass through the heat exchange channels (103) formed on both sides of the inlet rail channel (101) can join in the outlet rail channel (103). The heat transfer fluids that join in the outlet rail channel (103) can be discharged through the port (P14).

As another example, a heat transfer fluid may be introduced into a port (P12) of an inlet rail channel (101). The heat transfer fluids that have passed through heat exchange channels (103) formed on both sides of the inlet rail channel (101) may merge in an outlet rail channel (103). The heat transfer fluids that have merged in the outlet rail channel (103) may also be discharged through a port (P13).

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 30, an area close to the portion of the heat exchange channels (103) connected to the inlet rail channel (101) may correspond to the first area (R1).

According to the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 30, heat transfer fluid introduced through a port formed on one side of an inlet rail channel can perform heat exchange while passing through the heat exchange channels. The flow of heat exchange fluids in the heat exchange channels forms a counterflow, thereby achieving uniform heat exchange. Additionally, the heat transfer fluid can be discharged through the other side of the outlet rail channel (103).

Figure 31 is a table that summarizes examples of applying thermal resistance to various heat exchangers.

Referring to Fig. 31, regardless of the structural change of the heat exchanger, a region with a large temperature difference between the heat transfer fluid and the heat exchange target can be set as a first region (R1) to ensure uniformity of heat exchange. By making the thermal resistance of the first region (R1) greater than that of the second region (R2), heat exchange can be made uniform.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, parallel heat exchange channels can be easily manufactured using an extruded material (extruded material) with low manufacturing costs. Conventional battery coolers are manufactured using large press molds and large brazing furnaces, making them difficult to manufacture and significantly expensive. However, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a heat exchange channel structure can be manufactured through machining an extruded material (extruded material) with significantly low manufacturing costs for mass production, thereby facilitating the manufacture of a heat exchanger.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a heat exchanger capable of overcoming the problems of the conventional heat exchanger as described above and realizing uniform and excellent heat distribution and heat exchange characteristics can be implemented. According to the embodiment of the present invention described above, a heat exchanger capable of improving the uniformity of heat distribution and increasing the efficiency of heat exchange can be implemented. In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a heat exchanger capable of increasing space efficiency and maximizing heat exchange performance for a heat exchange target (a non-limiting example, a battery) in a flat type can be implemented. In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a heat exchanger capable of being easily manufactured at a relatively low manufacturing cost can be implemented.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, by using heat exchange channels to which close counterflow (i.e., counterflow) is applied, which can improve the uniformity of heat distribution, it is possible to overcome the problem that could not be solved in conventional heat exchange devices, that is, the difficult problem of ensuring heat management uniformity for a heating element that has a large area and uniformly generates heat, and to obtain the effect of optimizing the uniformity of heat exchange.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the uniformity of heat distribution and heat exchange performance can be improved by utilizing thermal resistance. Therefore, when cooling a heat exchange target such as a battery, uniform cooling characteristics can be secured to prevent hot spots, thereby improving the safety, durability, and lifespan of the battery. In particular, the effect of maximizing heat exchange performance for a flat-type battery surface can be achieved.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, when a double-sided cooling structure is applied for thermal management of a battery pack, the thermal resistance distance of a battery cell is halved compared to when a single-sided cooling structure is applied, so that the maximum temperature can be lowered by, for example, about 60%, and the maximum temperature and average temperature of each battery cell are mechanically managed uniformly, so that the thermal durability and lifespan of the battery pack are extended, thermal runaway is easily prevented, the energy efficiency of the battery pack is improved, and the charging time of the battery pack can be shortened, thereby achieving the effect of relieving inconvenience to users of electric vehicles (EVs).

In this specification, preferred embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed, and although specific terms have been used, they have been used in a general sense only to easily explain the technical contents of the present invention and to help the understanding of the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other modifications based on the technical idea of the present invention are possible in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the heat exchanger according to the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 30, the manufacturing method thereof, and the device including the heat exchanger can be variously modified. Therefore, the scope of the invention should not be defined by the described embodiments, but should be defined by the technical idea described in the claims.

Claims (15)

A heat exchanger that performs heat exchange using the flow of heat transfer fluid, It includes at least one heat exchange channel that performs heat exchange with a heat exchange target and a predetermined heat exchange area, In the first region of the above heat exchange regions, the thermal resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target is A heat exchanger having a different thermal resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target in the second region among the above heat exchange regions. In the first paragraph, A first port connection channel section in which a first port into which the heat transfer fluid is injected is formed A first connection channel portion extending from a first portion of the first port connection channel portion; A second connection channel portion extending from a second portion of the first port connection channel portion; A second port connecting channel section in which a second port through which the heat transfer fluid is discharged is formed; A third connection channel portion extending from the first portion of the second port connection channel portion; Further comprising a fourth connection channel portion extending from the second portion of the above second port connection channel portion. The at least one heat exchange channel includes a plurality of first heat exchange channels arranged to connect the first connection channel portion with one of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion, and a plurality of second heat exchange channels arranged to connect the other of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion with the second connection channel portion, The first port connection channel portion is connected to the first side end of the first connection channel portion and the second connection channel portion, A heat exchanger in which the second port connection channel portion is connected to a second side end different from the first side of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion. In the first paragraph, First rail channel; and Includes a second rail channel, The at least one heat exchange channel is connected to the first rail channel and the second rail channel, and includes channels having at least one shape among a “U” shape and a “W” shape, A heat exchanger in which a heat transfer fluid flowing in from a port formed on one side of the first rail channel is branched into channels having at least one shape among the “U” shape and the “W” shape and then discharged through a port formed on the other side of the second rail channel. In the second paragraph, The plurality of first heat exchange channels connect between the first connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion, A heat exchanger in which the plurality of second heat exchange channels connect between the second connection channel section and the third connection channel section. In paragraph 4, A heat exchanger, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of first heat exchange channels and at least a portion of the plurality of second heat exchange channels are arranged alternately to provide counterflow characteristics of the heat transfer fluid. In paragraph 4, The heat transfer fluid introduced into the first connection channel section is branched into the plurality of first heat exchange channels, then joins in the fourth connection channel section and is discharged through the second port. A heat exchanger in which the heat transfer fluid introduced into the second connection channel section is divided into the plurality of second heat exchange channels, then joined in the third connection channel section and discharged through the second port. In the second paragraph, The plurality of first heat exchange channels connect between the first connection channel portion and the third connection channel portion, A heat exchanger in which the plurality of second heat exchange channels connect between the second connection channel section and the fourth connection channel section. In paragraph 7, Each of the plurality of first heat exchange channels has a “U”-shaped structure that extends from the first connection channel portion and then bends to extend toward the third connection channel portion. A heat exchanger in which each of the plurality of second heat exchange channels has a “U”-shaped structure extending from the second connection channel portion and then bending to extend in the direction of the fourth connection channel portion. In paragraph 7, The heat transfer fluid introduced into the first connection channel section is divided into the plurality of first heat exchange channels, then joins in the third connection channel section and is discharged through the second port. A heat exchanger in which the heat transfer fluid introduced into the second connection channel section is divided into the plurality of second heat exchange channels, then joins in the fourth connection channel section and is discharged through the second port. In the second paragraph, A plurality of third heat exchange channels arranged to connect the first connection channel portion with one of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion; and Further comprising a plurality of fourth heat exchange channels arranged to connect the second connection channel portion with another one of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion; The plurality of first heat exchange channels and the plurality of second heat exchange channels are arranged to define a first heat exchange area, The plurality of third heat exchange channels and the plurality of fourth heat exchange channels are arranged to define a second heat exchange area at a different location from the first heat exchange channel, A heat exchanger in which a predetermined heat exchange target is placed between the first heat exchange area and the second heat exchange area. In the second paragraph, The cross-sectional area of the first connecting channel portion and the second connecting channel portion decreases from the first side end toward the second side end, A heat exchanger in which the cross-sectional area of the flow path of the third connection channel portion and the fourth connection channel portion increases from the first side end toward the second side end. In the first paragraph, A heat exchanger in which an insulating material having a higher thermal resistance than that of the second region is inserted into the first region. In the first paragraph, A heat exchanger wherein at least one of the heat exchange channels has a surface area in the first region that is smaller than a surface area in the second region. In the first paragraph, A heat conduction control member is provided between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target, The heat exchanger in which the above heat conduction control member has a relatively high thermal resistance in the first region and a relatively low thermal resistance in the second region. In the first paragraph, In the first region of the heat exchange region, the thermal resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target is higher than the thermal resistance between the at least one heat exchange channel and the heat exchange target in the second region of the heat exchange region, The above first region is a heat exchanger adjacent to the region into which the heat transfer fluid is introduced.