DE102015214452A1 - Thermal management system for a vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

Thermal management system for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle, with a control unit, a gas exchange unit for exchanging gas, in particular air, between the vehicle and a vehicle external thermal energy supply device and a communication unit for signal-based control of the vehicle external thermal energy supply device. In this case, the control unit is configured to determine, with at least one input variable, whether a transport of thermal energy to and from the vehicle is to take place, and if this is the case, to cause the communication unit to send a signal to the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device. This signal identifies the request to transport thermal energy. As a result, in the case of the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device, a delivery or intake of gas for transporting thermal energy to and from the vehicle is requested.

Description

The present invention relates to a thermal management system for a vehicle, a vehicle having such a thermal management system and a coupling device for energy exchange between a thermal management system and an external thermal power supply.

Vehicles, in particular motor vehicles, usually have vehicle components in which thermal energy is generated or used or is to be transported away or transported to it. A thermal management system regulates the flows of thermal energy in a vehicle. Generally, vehicle components have a temperature range in which they can operate and an optimum operating temperature range. Via a thermal management system, vehicle components can be brought or held in their, preferably optimal, operating temperature range. Thus, in a passenger car with an internal combustion engine, the vehicle interior should have a temperature that is comfortable for the passengers, and thermal energy from the internal combustion engine must be removed with a coolant. In this case, the removal of the thermal energy from the internal combustion engine is controlled by a coolant through the thermal management system, wherein the optimum operating temperature range of the internal combustion engine is usually present at a coolant temperature between 85 ° C and 110 ° C. On the one hand, this thermal energy can be released via a radiator of the vehicle to the vehicle surroundings and, on the other hand, be used to heat the vehicle interior.

When a vehicle is put into operation, most of the vehicle components have not yet reached their optimum operating temperature range, in particular their temperature may be lower, requiring thermal energy to reach the optimum operating temperature range. This requires an additional energy requirement, especially in a vehicle with an internal combustion engine usually an additional fuel consumption. In addition, the friction is usually increased as the internal combustion engine and the transmission due to the suboptimal lubricating properties of the engine or transmission oil at low temperatures. Additionally, vehicle components that are not operated to their optimum operating temperature range due to low or high temperatures may experience increased wear and reduced performance. In an electrically powered vehicle, generally less thermal energy is generated than in a vehicle with an internal combustion engine. If vehicle components, in particular the passenger compartment, are to be heated, then the thermal energy required for this purpose must first be generated. This often requires an additional current drain from the traction battery, so a shorter range. After operation of the vehicle, the vehicle components then usually have excess thermal energy, which is usually released passively to the vehicle environment. By coupling a parked vehicle to an external heat source, the vehicle components can be supplied with thermal energy from the external heat source, thus reducing the energy consumption during operation of the vehicle; By coupling to an external heat sink, on the other hand, thermal energy can be transported from the vehicle components to the external heat sink and this thermal energy, in particular for heating buildings, can be used, thereby reducing the overall energy requirement.

From the German patent application DE 10 2009 024 497 A1 A method of cogeneration, a combined heat and power system, a connection system for the cogeneration system, a vehicle for the cogeneration system and a heat storage is known. In this case, heat energy is exchanged via a distribution point between a vehicle and an external heat sink or heat source, such as a solar system. To ensure a sufficient temperature, a heat pump can additionally be used. Moreover, the vehicle preferably has a heat storage, and the heat energy is at least partially not directly the movement of the vehicle.

The German patent application DE 10 2010 051 868 A1 describes a method for controlling a heat pump system for air conditioning of a vehicle. In an associated flow control module, a plurality of connection pairs for connecting a plurality of heat transfer medium circuits for the use of different primary energies is provided. The mass flows or volume flows of the individual heat carrier streams are thereby permanently regulated independently of one another and in dependence on the current supply of the respective primary energies used, solar heat used in particular as the primary source or the exhaust air of a ventilation system.

The invention has for its object to provide an improved thermal management system for a vehicle, a vehicle with such a thermal management system and a coupling device for the exchange of energy between a thermal management system and an external thermal energy supply device. In particular, it is desirable that To facilitate coupling between the external thermal energy source and the vehicle or the thermal management system both for the user and from a technical point of view and to enable a reduction in the total energy demand.

The object is achieved by a thermal management system according to the teaching of independent claim 1, by a vehicle according to the teaching of independent claim 12, by a coupling device according to the teaching of independent claim 13 and by an energy transport system according to the teaching of independent claim 15. Further developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

A first aspect of the invention relates to a thermal management system for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising a control unit, a gas exchange unit for exchanging gas, in particular air, between the vehicle and a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device and a communication unit for signal-based control of the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device. In this case, the control unit is configured to determine, with at least one input variable, whether a transport of thermal energy to and from the vehicle is to take place, and if this is the case, to cause the communication unit to send a signal to the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device. This signal identifies the request to transport thermal energy. As a result, in the case of the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device, a delivery or intake of gas for transporting thermal energy to and from the vehicle is requested.

A "vehicle" in the sense of the invention means any type of vehicle by means of which one or more persons and / or payload can be transported. Preferably, the vehicle is a land vehicle that only or predominantly moves on land. In particular, a passenger car (PKW), a truck (truck), a motorcycle, a bus or a trailer to one of the vehicles mentioned above is a vehicle according to the invention. Moreover, for the purposes of the invention, a vehicle which is moved by engine power and in particular has a motor is referred to as a motor vehicle.

In the context of the invention, a "vehicle-external thermal energy supply device" is to be understood as meaning a thermal device which, if appropriate in addition to another object, also supplies a vehicle with thermal energy, wherein it is not part of the vehicle itself, ie external to the vehicle is. In particular, a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device additionally, even primarily, for supplying a building with thermal energy, so in particular serve to heat the building. Preferably, the vehicle external thermal energy supply device is a solar thermal system, a heat pump, a small power plant, which is preferably operated with biogas, or a combined heat and power plant. In particular, a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device may have a storage for thermal energy and a heat transport medium.

The vehicle-external thermal energy supply device may also preferably be a combination of the aforementioned devices. Thus, in particular, a solar power system with a solar thermal system and an electric heat pump can be advantageously combined to generate an electric current and to receive other thermal energy first through the solar thermal system and further thermal energy by means of the electric heat pump, in particular via the current from the Solar power system can be operated to win or increase the temperature of the heat transport medium.

Moreover, in a vehicle external thermal energy supply device, a heat surplus occur, in particular by increased solar radiation or, especially in combined heat and power plant, with an increased demand for electrical power and simultaneous relatively low demand for thermal energy or even with favorable availability of electrical energy, such as an excess of electrical Energy from wind power. This heat surplus can usually not be used and must be removed to avoid overheating, to the environment. Preferably, a solar thermal system is configured to signal such a heat surplus or a heat demand and, in particular by means of a communication device, to send a signal which characterizes the heat surplus or heat demand.

A "communication device" within the meaning of the invention means an apparatus for sending data to a remote party. In this case, the transmission of the data can be based on one or more different transmission technologies, and in particular be wired, optical, wireless or by means of capacitive or inductive coupling. In particular, the communication device may be capable of data with a far side via a short-range radio link change. Moreover, the communication device may also be able to receive data from a far end itself. For the other terms "communication device" or "communication unit" the same applies as for the term "communication device".

For the purposes of the invention, "configured" means that the corresponding device is already set up or can be set - d. H. configurable - is to fulfill a specific function. The configuration can take place, for example, via a corresponding setting of parameters of a process sequence or of switches or the like for activating or deactivating functionalities or settings.

A "thermal management system" in the sense of the invention means a system for controlling the flows of thermal energy via heat transfer means. In particular, when using liquid or gaseous heat transfer media as heat transport means, the thermal management system controls the flow of thermal energy through the streams of heat transfer medium.

Thus, components of a system that are thermally contacted with the thermal management system may be brought into or held within their optimum operating temperature range. A thermal management system may preferably have a sensor for determining the transport of thermal energy that has already taken place or a temperature sensor. This allows a feedback for the regulation of the transport of thermal energy can be achieved. In this way, the control of the temperature of components of a system can take place in a smaller temperature window, be energetically more efficient, or ensure compliance with upper and / or lower temperature limits.

A "heat transport medium" in the context of the invention means a means for transporting thermal energy. In particular, a heat transport medium can store thermal energy. The thermal energy is present in particular as sensible heat or latent heat and can be spatially transported together with the heat transport medium from a first spatial area to a second spatial area. In this case, thermal energy is thus removed from the first spatial area and introduced into the second spatial area. In particular, the first room area is thus cooled and the second room area is heated. Depending on the considered direction of transport of the thermal energy, a heat transport medium is also a "cold transport agent". As a heat transport medium preferably liquid or gaseous heat transfer media are used. In this way, the transport of thermal energy can be controlled via the flow of the liquid or gaseous heat transport medium, wherein in particular a substantially closed circuit can be used for the heat transport medium, which is usually referred to as a heat cycle. Finally, a coolant, such as is used in the cooling circuit in motor vehicles, may be a heat transfer medium. The coolant is preferably a liquid or gaseous cooling medium.

A "regulation" and a "control" or "control" and "rules" in the context of the invention means the same thing. A controller of a system determines at least one output based on at least one input. In this case, the control or regulation aims to influence a value of the system via the determined output variable. In particular, the system may have an actual value and a setpoint value and the control may aim to approximate the actual value to the setpoint value, wherein the achievable degree of approaching or reaching the setpoint value usually depends on further factors. Thus, while a controller is aimed at influencing a value of the system, the influence itself usually depends on further factors and thus can not be realized in any operating state of the system. In particular, a temperature control that delivers surplus heat energy of a system to the environment of the system can only cause a sufficient flow of thermal energy from the system into the environment for a certain, not too high temperature range of the environment.

A "heat surplus" of a device in the context of the invention is to be understood as meaning that a device has more thermal energy, is transported to it or is generated in it than it requires for its function. In particular, with a heat surplus, the temperature of a device may be above the optimum operating temperature range of the device. Also, but not limited to, in a thermal energy storage, the capacity of the memory may be at least substantially depleted. So that when further thermal energy is transported to this storage for thermal energy, it can at least essentially not be stored and then there is a heat surplus in the sense of the invention.

A "heat demand" of a device in the context of the invention means that a device requires thermal energy for its function or can absorb more thermal energy in its function, without then having a heat surplus. In particular, at a heat requirement, the temperature of a device are below the optimum operating temperature range of the device. Also, with a thermal energy storage, additional capacity may be present so that additional thermal energy may be stored in the thermal energy storage. Also, the use of thermal energy, such as for heating, can result in a heat demand.

Whether a heat requirement or a heat surplus of a device is present, can preferably be determined via a temperature sensor in thermal contact with it. In particular, the values of a signal of the temperature sensor can be divided into at least one value range in which a heat requirement or a heat surplus exists, and another range. Specifically, values of a signal from the temperature sensor that may be associated with heat demand will be at temperatures that are below the optimum operating temperature range of the device. Conversely, values of a signal of the temperature sensor that may be associated with excess heat will result especially at temperatures that are above the optimum operating temperature range of a device. It is preferred that the ranges of values for a heat demand and a heat surplus do not substantially overlap. However, in the sense of a fuzzy logic or a regulation by means of hysteresis, a certain overlap is conceivable.

In addition to heat surplus and heat demand can analogously also the terms cold surplus and cooling demand are used, with the signs for the required transport or for the thermal energy itself reverse.

A "temperature sensor" in the sense of the invention means a sensor in which the values of its signal depend on a temperature. In this case, the temperature sensor can in particular be in thermal contact with a device and thus measure the temperature of the device. Preferably, when the device does not have a spatially constant temperature, the temperature sensor can measure at least the temperature of that part of the device with which it is in thermal contact. The values of the signal of the temperature sensor may in particular be absolute or relative temperatures. Furthermore, the values can only correlate with absolute or relative temperatures. Thus, in particular, the voltage noise of a resistor or the forward voltage of a diode can be considered. Also, features that are secondary to temperature, such as catalyst exhaust emissions or lubricating properties of oil, may be used to measure such signals. Furthermore, the temperature can be measured by the properties or the temperature of a heat transfer medium. For example, in a vehicle with an internal combustion engine and a cooling circuit, the temperature of the coolant circulating in the cooling circuit is measured and used for controlling the cooling and / or displayed.

A "gas exchange unit" in the sense of the invention is to be understood as an apparatus which enables the exchange of gas between a first space area and a second space area. For this purpose, the gas exchange unit has at least one spatial area, in particular an opening, through which gas can enter the first spatial area and exit from the second spatial area or vice versa. The spatial area through which gas enters or exits may be referred to as the replacement area. In particular, in a vehicle, the gas exchange unit can be designed as an air inlet. In particular, this air inlet can also be designed for cooling and for supplying air to the radiator of the vehicle.

The use of air as gas for gas exchange is preferred. In addition, the heat capacity of air can be increased in particular by moistening. Also preferred is the use of a gas, such as water vapor or carbon dioxide, having a volume specific heat capacity that is higher than the volume specific heat capacity of air.

An advantage of the thermal management system according to the invention is, in particular when using air as a gas for exporting thermal energy, a simple coupling between the thermal management system and the vehicle external thermal energy supply device. In particular, the air intakes present in a vehicle in general for the existing cooling can also be used for the coupling. Thus, the technical complexity can be reduced and / or avoid an additional weight of the vehicle, which could be required for a coupling via other Ankoppelungsarten. Moreover, an advantage may be that the user does not need to connect hoses or pipes, such as liquid heat transfer media, to the thermal management system for coupling. In particular, such a thermal management system can enable a vehicle equipped therewith to be coupled to a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device already by heating the ambient air of the vehicle and by the vehicle receiving the heated ambient air via the gas exchange unit.

Another advantage comes from the potential use of excess energy. In the sense of the invention, such "excess energy" is in particular a heat surplus of the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device or electrical energy from wind energy, which can not be stored. As stated above, such excess energy remains unused or even needs to be released to the environment without transportation to the vehicle. A vehicle may also be a source of excess energy, especially thermal energy. Thus, especially in motor vehicles, the excess thermal energy is usually discharged unused to the environment. In particular, by means of the thermal management system according to the invention, the excess energy can be used where there is a heat demand. Thus, a reduction in energy consumption can be achieved.

Finally, by using the thermal energy of the vehicle external thermal energy supply device through the thermal management system, the energy demand of a vehicle with such a thermal management system can be reduced, thereby increasing its range, reducing its fuel requirements or reducing its emissions.

Hereinafter, preferred developments of the thermal management system will be described, each of which, as far as is technically possible and is not expressly excluded, can be combined as desired.

According to a first preferred embodiment of the thermal management system, the control unit is further configured to predictively determine whether a transport of thermal energy to the vehicle or away from the vehicle should take place. In this case, the at least one input variable is selected from the following group: meteorological data, solar irradiation on the vehicle or in its surroundings, vehicle outside temperature, temperature of a vehicle component, precipitation such as rain or snow, precipitation rate, time, previous request for the transport of thermal energy or user input. As a result, the transport of thermal energy can be initiated in advance in an advantageous manner. It follows, in particular, a gain in comfort, since the transport of thermal energy has already taken place, at least in part, when the vehicle is to be used. Thus, in winter, the vehicle may in particular already be preheated by means of transport of thermal energy to the vehicle. The weather-related input variables from the above-mentioned group allow conclusions about the temperatures of the vehicle of its vehicle components or a prediction of the development of temperatures. With the time and / or at least one previous request for the transport of thermal energy can be about the analysis of the previous requirements and their temporal patterns to achieve a prediction, at which time the transport of thermal energy is to be requested. Finally, with a user input or with a user input in combination with another above-mentioned input variable, the probability of occurrence of the predictive determination of whether a transport of thermal energy between the vehicle and the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device should take place can be increased. For example, before a user-planned trip, the vehicle can already be preheated or after a trip, if the user no further trip is planned, transported the remaining thermal energy away from the vehicle and stored in the vehicle external thermal energy supply device and / or used become.

According to a further preferred development of the thermal management system, the control unit is further configured to selectively determine, with the at least one input variable, whether a transport of thermal energy to at least one vehicle component is to take place or away from the at least one vehicle component and, based thereon, a transport of thermal energy between the at least one vehicle component and the vehicle external thermal energy supply device to request. In this advantageous manner, the transport of thermal energy can not only be generally requested between the vehicle and the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device, but also specifically for individual vehicle components.

Thus, the internal combustion engine of the vehicle can be preheated before a drive and thus reduces fuel consumption and its life can be extended. In particular, by heating the catalytic converter prior to a drive, its effectiveness can be increased or a function of its function earlier relative to the start of the journey can be achieved, thus reducing pollutant emissions. By supplying thermal energy to the starter battery and the fuel tank, an improvement in the operational capability of the vehicle, especially at low outside temperatures, such as below -10 ° C, possible. In a vehicle with electric drive, thermal energy is preferably transported to the traction battery, which also improves the operational capability, especially at low ambient temperatures, and the range is increased. In addition, needs-based heating of the vehicle interior and the vehicle window means a gain in comfort for the driver, for example, by preventing the fogging of the vehicle windows. In particular, in a vehicle with electric drive while the range can be increased, otherwise a part, such as more than 10% of the stored electrical energy for heating the vehicle interior and / or the vehicle window would have to be used. After a journey, thermal energy can be transported from the internal combustion engine to the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device and thus use this thermal energy for the thermal energy supply, in particular for heating a building. Finally, thermal energy can also be transported in particular away from the vehicle interior if its temperature exceeds a comfortable level for the passengers or if the thermal energy stored there, for example after a journey, is no longer needed.

For the purposes of the invention, a "vehicle component" is to be understood as part of a vehicle. In particular, a vehicle component can be selected from the following group: internal combustion engine, electric motor, fuel tank, passenger compartment, transmission, cooling system, heating system, latent heat accumulator, starter battery, traction battery, catalytic converter, vehicle window or exterior mirror. Moreover, a vehicle component may have an operating temperature and, in particular, an optimum operating temperature range. In particular, the respective operating temperature can be determined by means of a temperature sensor. Thus, in an internal combustion engine, the operating temperature is usually determined via the temperature of the coolant, it being known to the person skilled in the art that other temperatures are present in the combustion chamber itself.

According to a further preferred development, the thermal management system further comprises at least one temperature sensor, the signal of which depends on the heat surplus and / or the heat requirement of the vehicle or the at least one vehicle component. The signal of the temperature sensor serves as the at least one input variable or as a further input variable, on the basis of which the control unit determines whether a transport of thermal energy should take place between the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device and the vehicle or the at least one vehicle component. In this advantageous manner, a control of the transport of thermal energy can be achieved. In particular, it is thus possible to conclude a heat surplus or heat requirement of the vehicle or of the at least one vehicle component via the signal of the temperature sensor. In particular, based on this, if there is a heat surplus of the vehicle or of the at least one vehicle component, then the transport of thermal energy from or away from it and / or, in the case of a heat requirement, the transport to or from this can be requested. Continuous use of the temperature sensor signal as an input variable allows a control loop to be achieved, thus transporting the thermal energy as needed. This makes it possible, in particular, to use the existing sources of thermal energy efficiently. Moreover, by means of the control loop, it is possible to achieve or at least selectively approach the optimum operating temperature range for the at least one vehicle component. An approach to the optimum operating temperature range is in particular possible even when the vehicle is in a parked or stationary state, especially in a motor vehicle in a state with the engine off. Finally, it is also possible in this way to further improve the, in particular predictive, determination as to whether and in which direction a transport of thermal energy should take place. This may represent a comfort gain for the user and / or a simplified use of the thermal management system.

According to a further preferred development of the thermal management system, the latter furthermore has an air flap for controlling the gas exchange via the gas exchange unit. The air damper is controlled by the control unit so that by opening the air damper gas is interchangeable with the vehicle via the gas exchange unit, if, according to determination of the control unit, a transport of thermal energy between the vehicle and vehicle external thermal energy supply device. In particular, such a sufficient gas exchange for the transport of thermal energy can be achieved. It is also possible to avoid unnecessary gas exchange by closing the air flap, which can improve the aerodynamics and / or reduce the energy requirement, especially when driving.

In a preferred variant, the air flap is designed to direct the air flowing in via the gas exchange unit to one or at least one vehicle component. In this way, a targeted air flow to achieve this vehicle component and in particular achieve sufficient transport of thermal energy.

According to a further preferred development, the thermal management system further comprises a cooling circuit with a heat exchange unit for a coolant and a gas movement device. In this case, thermal energy is exchangeable between the gas and the coolant by means of the heat exchange unit, in addition to and for the exchange of gas between the Vehicle and the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device, the gas by means of the gas movement device to the heat exchange unit and / or away from it is movable.

A "heat exchange unit" within the meaning of the invention is a device for exchanging thermal energy between a first heat transport means and a second heat transport means. In particular, the radiator of a motor vehicle is a heat exchange unit. The radiator of a motor vehicle generally exchanges thermal energy between the coolant of the motor vehicle and the ambient air. In particular, a radiator of a heating system may be a heat exchange unit in the context of the invention.

In a preferred variant, the gas is time cyclically to the heat exchange unit and then away from this again movable. In a further preferred variant, to transport thermal energy from the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device to the vehicle, the gas can be moved by means of the gas movement device from the gas exchange unit to the heat exchange unit. In a further preferred variant, to transport thermal energy away from the vehicle to the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device, the gas can be moved away from the heat exchange unit to the gas exchange unit by means of the gas movement device and in particular can be moved through the heat exchange unit.

By means of the thermal management system according to the invention, the amount of transportable thermal energy per unit of time can be increased by the active movement of the gas in comparison to a passive embodiment. Moreover, it is possible to reduce the required temperature difference for the transport of the thermal energy.

According to a further preferred development of the thermal management system, the coolant can be moved by means of a coolant pump through the cooling circuit and through the heat exchange unit. In this case, a thermal contact of at least one vehicle component with the coolant can be produced over a part of the cooling circuit. In addition, the control unit is further configured to regulate the part of the cooling circuit, via which the thermal contact with this vehicle component can be produced, so that the coolant can be moved depending on the quantity of thermal energy to be transported in order to transport the thermal energy. An advantage of this embodiment may be that the coolant in the respective part of the cooling circuit is moved only to the extent required to transport the thermal energy. Preferably, the coolant in the respective part of the cooling circuit is not moved when despite heat surplus of at least one vehicle component no transport of thermal energy into the coolant is possible, ie in particular the coolant is not cooler than the at least one vehicle component. Preferably, the coolant in the respective part of the cooling circuit is also not moved, despite heat demand of at least one vehicle component no transport of thermal energy from the coolant to this vehicle component is possible, ie in particular the coolant is not hotter than the at least one vehicle component.

According to a further preferred development of the thermal management system, the part of the cooling circuit, which makes the thermal contact with the at least one vehicle component, further comprises a valve and / or a further coolant pump, whereby the movement of the coolant in this part of the cooling circuit can be controlled by the control unit is. In particular, such a valve allows a simple and cost-effective control of the coolant flow.

In particular, such a coolant pump allows targeted control and even increase of the coolant flow beyond the otherwise achievable level, with which an improved transport thermal energy can be achieved, ie an increased cooling or increased heating of the at least one vehicle component.

A further preferred development of the thermal management system furthermore has a coolant flow control, which allows the coolant to flow only from a temperature above 30 ° C., preferably above 50 ° C. and particularly preferably above 80 ° C., to the heat exchange unit and / or to the at least one vehicle component. In addition, the development has a coolant flow control bypass, which is designed to guide the coolant around the coolant flow control if, according to determination of the control unit, a transport of thermal energy to the at least one vehicle component is to take place, and thus also the coolant flow to the at least one vehicle component Allow temperatures below the above values. With the aid of the coolant flow control, the respective vehicle components can reach their optimum operating temperature range more quickly if they have a heat requirement and generate their own thermal energy. If thermal energy from the vehicle external thermal energy supply device is supplied to the vehicle, however, it is preferable to bypass this coolant flow control by means of the coolant flow control bypass, since then at a heat demand of the vehicle or the Vehicle component external thermal energy can be supplied. It is also preferable to bypass the coolant flow control in order to be able to remove still existing and, in particular after a journey, thermal energy that is no longer required and to be able to transport it to the external thermal energy supply device if the temperature of the coolant has already fallen below the above-mentioned temperatures Has.

A further preferred development of the thermal management system has a secondary cooling circuit and a further vehicle component. In this case, thermal energy between the other vehicle component and the cooling circuit via the secondary cooling circuit is interchangeable. In addition, the control unit is further configured to determine whether to transfer thermal energy to the one or more vehicle components, and based thereon transport thermal energy between the another vehicle component and the vehicle external thermal power supply to regulate demand-dependent by means of the secondary cooling circuit. With the aid of the thermal management system according to the invention, the transport of thermal energy between the one further vehicle component and the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device can be improved. In this advantageous manner can be achieved in a vehicle with electric drive supply the traction battery with thermal energy. Also, an advantage may be that the catalyst of the vehicle can be heated, whereby this already works earlier relative to the start of the journey and so the pollutant emissions are reduced. In particular, the transmission can also be preheated in this way before driving and thus its running properties can be improved and its service life can be extended, with the transmission oil preferably being used as the secondary coolant.

According to a further preferred development, the thermal management system further comprises a power transmission unit and an exchange area formed on the gas exchange unit. The exchange of gas between the vehicle and the vehicle external thermal energy supply device takes place in this development by the exchange area. In addition, the power transmission unit is formed in the exchange region or at least less than 10 cm, preferably less than 5 cm, more preferably less than 1 cm away from this. In this case, the power transmission unit is configured to transmit electrical energy to the on-board network of the vehicle and so to provide an electrical power in the range of 1 W to 1000 W, preferably from 50 W to 500 W and more preferably from 100 W to 200 W for the vehicle , By supplying electrical energy by means of the power transmission unit, the battery of the vehicle, in particular the starter battery or the traction battery, can preferably be relieved of thermal energy during the transport. This is particularly important if the thermal energy is transported with the engine off, since in this case the thermal management system gets the electrical energy it needs from the electrical system and thus from the battery. In this case, the removal of electrical energy from the battery, in particular their lifetime and in the case of a traction battery and the later achievable range of the vehicle would decrease. Thus, the supply of electrical energy via the power transmission unit in particular increases the service life of the battery and possibly also the range of the vehicle. Another advantage of the further preferred development is in particular in the design of the power transmission unit in the exchange area, whereby the use of the thermal management system and in particular the coupling of the vehicle external thermal energy supply device, such as a coupling device is facilitated and preferably can be done in one step.

A "power transmission unit" within the meaning of the invention means a device which transmits electrical energy directly as electric current or indirectly as another form of energy. In particular, the power transmission unit may have at least two electrical contacts. Preferably, the power transmission unit is designed as an induction coil, wherein the transmission of electrical energy by means of electromagnetic fields. In addition, such a power transmission unit may comprise a magnetic material in order to conduct the electromagnetic fields in the reception to the induction coil or to guide it during the transmission thereof. The power transmission unit preferably has electrical circuits for conditioning the supplied electrical energy for the dispatch or conditioning of the received electrical energy for further use. Finally, it is preferred that the power transmission unit has an electrical energy store. This can provide the electrical energy to be transmitted, at least temporarily, or temporarily store received electrical energy for further use.

In the context of the invention, a "magnetic material" is to be understood in particular as meaning a material which conducts or intensifies a magnetic flux. It is preferably a permanent magnet, a ferromagnetic or ferromagnetic Material such as iron, soft magnetic ferrites or hard magnetic ferrites.

According to a further preferred development of the thermal management system, the control unit is further configured to request the transport of thermal energy between the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device and the vehicle only when the engine is switched off.

According to a further preferred development of the thermal management system, this regulates the transport of thermal energy to and from vehicle components, as well as the exchange of thermal energy with the vehicle environment. In particular, it is thus advantageously possible for thermal energy to be transported from one vehicle component to another and used there, to be released to the vehicle environment when there is a heat surplus of the vehicle, or to be absorbed by the vehicle environment, in particular by a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device, when the vehicle requires heat. In a preferred variant, the thermal management system aims to bring or keep the vehicle components in their respective optimal operating temperature range.

According to a further preferred development of the thermal management system, the control unit is further configured to predictively determine the period of time required to bring at least one vehicle component into its, preferably optimal, operating temperature range. In a preferred variant, the determination of the time period is based on the at least one input variable. In a further preferred variant, the determination of the time period is based on the thermal data of a vehicle component, in particular on the heat capacity of the vehicle component or its predetermined temperature profile when supplying thermal energy from an initial temperature. In a further preferred variant, the control unit is further configured to cause the communication unit to send a signal identifying the predictively determined period of time. In particular, this signal can be sent to a mobile device of a user. In this advantageous manner, in particular the transport of thermal energy can be controlled in a time-dependent manner. In particular, based on the predictively determined period of time, the user can request the transport of thermal energy via a user input. In addition, it is also possible, especially in the case of an already occurring transport of thermal energy, to signal the predictively determined period of time to the user and thus enable the user to adapt his time schedule, ie in particular the time of commencement of the use of the vehicle.

A "mobile device" in the sense of the invention is to be understood as meaning a device having an energy store, a communication unit, a display unit and a control unit which is configured and whose size and weight are so low that a user can carry it and use it mobile , In particular, a mobile phone, a smartphone or a tablet computer are mobile devices within the meaning of the invention.

A second aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, with a thermal management system according to the first aspect of the invention. The previously mentioned possible advantages of the first aspect of the invention apply correspondingly also for the vehicle according to the invention.

A third aspect of the invention relates to a coupling device for the energy exchange between a vehicle, in particular a vehicle according to the second aspect of the invention, and a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device. The coupling device according to the invention has a gas exchange device and a coupling region formed on the gas exchange device. In this case, the coupling region is shaped or malleable such that gas is exchangeable between the gas exchange device and the vehicle or the gas exchange unit of the thermal management system. Furthermore, the coupling device in a first variant has a power transmission device, wherein the power transmission device is formed in the coupling region and is configured to transmit electrical energy into the electrical system of the vehicle and so an electrical power in the range of 1 W to 1000 W, preferably from 50W to 500W, more preferably 100W to 200W for the vehicle. Furthermore, in a second variant, the coupling device has a heat exchange device for a heat transport medium for transporting thermal energy between the coupling device and the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device, wherein gas in the coupling device can be heated or cooled by means of the heat exchange device by exchanging thermal energy with the heat transport medium. In a third variant, the features of the first variant and the second variant are combined.

A "gas exchange device" in the sense of the invention is to be understood as meaning a gas exchange unit for a coupling device. In this case, the spatial region through which gas enters or exits can be referred to as a coupling region. Preferably, in a system having a gas exchange unit and a gas exchange device, the exchange area of the gas exchange unit and the coupling area of the gas exchange apparatus are shaped so that when the system is in the coupled state, they are adjacent to each other and substantially prevent leakage of gas into the environment at least there. In particular, in a heating system or a vehicle external thermal energy supply device, the gas exchange device may be formed as an outlet for exhaust air.

A "power transmission device" in the sense of the invention is understood to mean a power transmission unit for a coupling device. Preferably, in a system comprising a power transmission unit and a power transmission device which transmits energy via electromagnetic fields, at least one of the two may comprise a magnetic material for directing the electromagnetic fields to the other. In particular, both can have a magnetic material for guiding the magnetic fields to one another and thus for improving the electromagnetic coupling.

An advantage of the coupling device according to the invention lies in the targeted coupling for the transport of thermal energy from a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device and a vehicle or its thermal management system. This allows the use of existing thermal energy of the vehicle and / or the vehicle external thermal energy supply device and can thus reduce the total energy demand. The transport of thermal energy via gas facilitates in particular the coupling to vehicles. Vehicles according to the invention preferably require no additional connections for further, if appropriate, fluid heat transfer media and can therefore be produced safely and cost-effectively. In particular, vehicles that have not been specially provided for such a coupling in their production, can be coupled to such a coupling device.

Furthermore, in particular the advantages which are described with regard to the further preferred development of the first aspect of the invention with a current transmission unit result.

Moreover, a simple coupling of the coupling device to the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device via the heat transport means can be achieved with the heat exchange device. In particular, existing vehicle-external thermal energy supply devices can be retrofitted with such a coupling device. In particular, an off-vehicle thermal power supply device having such a coupling device can exchange thermal energy with a vehicle or a thermal management system. Especially with a heat surplus of the vehicle external thermal energy supply device, the excess thermal energy can be transported to the vehicle.

Finally, with a coupling device according to the invention, it is possible to achieve a simple and / or material-saving expansion of already existing external thermal energy supply devices.

In the following, preferred developments of the coupling device will be described which, if this is technically possible and is not expressly excluded, can each be combined as desired.

The first preferred development of the coupling device further comprises a signal receiver. In this case, the signal receiver is configured to receive a signal that indicates a request for the transport of thermal energy and / or depends on a user input or a heat surplus or heat demand of the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device. In response to receipt of the signal, the signal receiver causes the gas exchange interface device to the vehicle or gas exchange unit of the thermal management system to carry thermal energy. An advantage of this via the signal receiver initiated transport of thermal energy is in particular that thermal energy can be transported as needed and targeted and distributed. This increases the comfort for the user or driver and reduces the overall energy requirement.

In a preferred variant, the transport of thermal energy takes place as a function of the respective heat requirement or excess heat. Thus, thermal energy is preferably transported by the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device, which in particular has a heat surplus, to the vehicle, which has a heat requirement. Also preferably, thermal energy is transported in a heat surplus of the vehicle from this to the vehicle external thermal energy supply device.

A "signal receiver" in the sense of the invention essentially refers to a communication device, wherein the signal receiver is in particular configured to generate a signal receive. A user input can preferably be done directly on the signal receiver or via another device with a communication device. Such a further device is preferably a mobile telephone, a smartphone, a computer or a remote control.

According to a further preferred development of the coupling device, the coupling region is shaped or so formable that the coupling device can adjoin the air inlets of a vehicle without larger open areas. As a result, in particular, the heated gas is conducted substantially into the vehicle or to the heat exchange device and substantially prevents the release of thermal energy to the environment in which no use is made by the vehicle or the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device.

According to a further preferred development, the coupling device has a storage device for gas in order to store the gas exchanged via the gas exchange device and not to deliver it to the environment. In a preferred variant, the storage device is designed for a time-cyclical gas exchange, that is, an alternating entry and exit of gas. The cyclic exchange is particularly advantageous in order not to lose gas to the environment and / or actively induced properties, such as in particular the gas temperature or the gas humidity or the air temperature or humidity, or to change only as far as it is for the function of the overall system, such as in a desired transport of thermal energy via the gas is required.

A fourth aspect of the invention relates to an energy transfer system for thermal energy exchange with a vehicle according to the second aspect of the invention. The energy transport system according to the invention has a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device and a coupling device connected or connectable therewith for exchanging gas according to the third aspect of the invention. Finally, by means of the exchange of the gas thermal energy between the vehicle external thermal energy supply device and the vehicle or the thermal management system can be transported. This results in particular the above-mentioned advantages from a coupling of a vehicle or a thermal management system and a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device according to one of the preceding aspects of the invention.

Further advantages, features and possible applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the figures.

It shows

1 schematically a system with an embodiment of the vehicle according to the invention, an embodiment of the coupling device according to the invention and a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device;

2 schematically an embodiment of the vehicle according to the invention; and

3 schematically an embodiment of the coupling device according to the invention, which couples a vehicle external thermal energy supply device to a vehicle.

First, it will open 1 Reference is made to the schematic of a system 27 with a vehicle external thermal power supply device 6 , a building 37 , An embodiment of the vehicle according to the invention 1 and an embodiment of the coupling device according to the invention 18 is shown. The vehicle external thermal energy supply device 6 has a storage for thermal energy 28 , a solar thermal collector 29 and a combined heat and power plant 32 on.

The coupling device 18 can about the heat cycle 38 with the thermal energy storage 28 exchange thermal energy and transfer it to the vehicle 1 about the gas 5 transport or thermal energy via the gas 5 received from the vehicle. About the heat cycle 36 gets thermal energy from the store for thermal energy 28 to the building 37 transported, the building 37 so heated, or the other way around. The solar thermal collector 29 receives heat radiation from the sun 30 , and this accumulated thermal energy is transmitted through the heat cycle 31 to the thermal energy store 28 transported. In addition, a heat transfer from the storage for thermal energy 28 to the solar thermal collector 29 be provided, in particular in order to free the solar thermal collector of dew, frost or snow at low outdoor temperatures. The combined heat and power plant 32 wins over an internal combustion engine 33 together with a generator 34 thermal energy and electrical energy. About the heat cycle 35 can the thermal energy to the store for thermal energy 28 be transported.

Preferably, the memory 28 be designed as latent heat storage. Also, the memory can 28 preferably configured to determine whether it has a heat surplus, and in particular its degree of filling with determine thermal energy. The determination is based in particular on an optical measurement, an acoustic measurement or on a measurement of the temperature. Preferably signals, if the degree of filling of the memory 28 lies in a predefined range, in particular the latent heat storage 28 filled or nearly filled and about the temperature in the latent heat storage 28 rises sharply, this or the vehicle external thermal energy supply device 6 a heat surplus. In particular, the vehicle 1 , the coupling device 18 , the building 37 , the solar thermal collector 29 or the combined heat and power plant 32 can be configured to withstand the excess heat in the store 28 to receive distinctive signal and to request the delivery of thermal energy in excess heat or at least not to transport thermal energy to the memory.

In 2 is an embodiment of the vehicle according to the invention 1 together with a vehicle external thermal power supply 6 outlined as a side view. In particular, the vehicle is 1 with switched off internal combustion engine 11 in the vicinity of the vehicle external thermal energy supply device 6 , The vehicle 1 is with an embodiment of the thermal management system according to the invention 2 fitted. The control unit 3 represents by the temperature measurement with the temperature sensor 10 determines whether there is a heat requirement or excess heat of the vehicle 1 is present. Thus, the control unit can in particular determine a heat demand if the measured temperature is below a predefined threshold, about 20 ° C. In addition, the control unit receives 3 via the communication unit 7 meteorological data 9 , If there is a heat requirement and at the same time, due to the received meteorological data, no adequate heating, in particular due to heat radiation of the sun, is predicted, then the control unit can 3 determine, in particular, that a transport of thermal energy to the vehicle should follow.

In this case, the control unit sends 3 via the communication unit 7 a signal 8th , which identifies the request for the transport of thermal energy, and thus demands of the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device 6 thermal energy. The vehicle external thermal energy supply device 6 heats gas 5 passing through the exchange area 16 the gas exchange unit 4 in the vehicle 1 arrives. Preferably serves as a gas exchange unit 4 the air intake of the vehicle 1 and as gas 5 the ambient air is used. The heated ambient air 5 , or briefly air, is preferably active by means of the gas movement device 14 sucked into the vehicle, wherein the gas movement device 14 as usual in a vehicle, can be designed as a fan. The in the vehicle 1 sucked in air 5 flows through the heat exchange unit 13 , which is designed in particular as usual in a vehicle as a radiator, and thus heats the coolant of the cooling circuit 12 , The coolant in the cooling circuit 12 is by means of a coolant pump 15 moves and transports the thermal energy. In particular, the internal combustion engine 11 to the cooling circuit 12 connected and can be warmed so. Preferably, further vehicle components may enter through the vehicle 1 sucked in, warmed air also be warmed; a coupling via the coolant circuit 12 this can increase the achievable transport of thermal energy, but is not absolutely necessary.

In addition, the vehicle external thermal energy supply device transmits 6 by means of the power transmission device 26 , which is preferably formed as at least one induction coil, magnetic fields from the vehicle 1 by means of the power transmission unit 17 be received. The power transmission unit 17 supplies the vehicle via the vehicle electrical system 1 and in particular the control unit 3 , the communication unit 7 , the gas movement device 14 and the coolant pump 15 with electrical energy. For clarity, a representation of the electrical system in 2 waived. In this way, for the transport of thermal energy into the vehicle 1 whose starter battery will not be charged or at least to a lesser extent.

3 shows a vehicle 1 and a vehicle external thermal power supply 6 , The Ober an embodiment of the coupling device according to the invention 18 coupled together. The vehicle is preferably in the vicinity of the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device 6 or at least the coupling device 18 parked. The vehicle 1 has a gas exchange unit 4 with exchange area 16 and one at the exchange area 16 trained power transmission unit 17 on. The coupling device 18 has a gas exchange device 19 with a coupling area 20 and one at the coupling area 20 trained power transmission device 26 on. The coupling area 20 is shaped and in the exchange area 16 arranged that the gas 5 between the gas exchange device 19 and the gas exchange unit 4 can be replaced and thereby preferably a leakage of gas 5 in the environment is substantially avoided. In addition, the power transmission unit 17 and the power transmission device 20 each formed as induction coils and arranged so that these, when the coupling region 20 and the exchange area 16 are arranged as described above, also together can be adjacent and transmit electrical energy as an alternating magnetic field.

The signal receiver 23 is configured according to different signals 25 to cause the transport of thermal energy. In this case, thermal energy between the vehicle external thermal energy supply device 6 and the heat exchange device 22 via the heat transport medium 21 transported, which in particular is hot water that circulates through a heat cycle. By means of the heat exchange device 22 is thermal energy between the heat transport medium 21 and the gas 5 replaced. Preference is given as gas 5 Air, especially from the environment, used. The air 5 can be moved by thermal convection or preferably by a, not shown here, active gas moving device, preferably a fan.

In the embodiment shown here, the signal receiver receives 23 a user input 24 from a mobile device as well as a signal 25 , which is a heat surplus of the vehicle external thermal energy supply device 6 features. Here, the user input signals 24 a planned trip with the vehicle 1 , which should take place in about 15 minutes. Moreover, out of the signal 25 known that there is a heat surplus. As a result, the signal receiver causes 23 the coupling device 18 for gas exchange with the vehicle 1 and thus transports thermal energy from the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device 6 to the vehicle 1 , During the planned journey, approximately in 15 minutes, the car is then already warmed up and it results in particular better driving characteristics and increased comfort for the user.

Also, the period from the initiation of the gas exchange to heating, in particular until complete heating d. H. depending on the outside temperature, to achieve optimum driving characteristics as well as user comfort. For example, at outside temperatures below 0 ° C, a period of 30 minutes may be required for complete heating. If heating takes place there for only 15 minutes by transporting thermal energy, the vehicle is only partially heated or preheated. This can already result in better driving characteristics and increased comfort for the user; However, in this case they have not reached their optimum after 15 minutes. Finally, the amount of time required for heating may depend on the heat capacity of the vehicle or components and the available power in the transport of thermal energy.

While at least one exemplary embodiment has been described above, it should be understood that a large number of variations exist. It should also be understood that the described exemplary embodiments are nonlimiting examples only and are not intended to thereby limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the devices and methods described herein. Rather, the foregoing description will provide those skilled in the art with guidance for implementing at least one example embodiment, it being understood that various changes in the operation and arrangement of the elements described in an exemplary embodiment may be made without departing from the appended claims Derogated from the requirements of the respective subject matter as well as its legal equivalents.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

vehicle

2

Thermal Management System

3

control unit

4

Gas exchange unit

5

Gas, especially air

6

Power supply means

7

communication unit

8th

signal

9

Meteorological data

10

temperature sensor

11

internal combustion engine

12

Cooling circuit

13

Heat exchange unit

14

Gas movement device, in particular designed as a fan

15

Coolant pump

16

exchange area

17

Current transfer unit

18

coupling device

19

Gas exchange device

20

coupling region

21

Heat transport medium

22

Heat exchange device

23

signal receiver

24

user input

25

From a heat surplus or heat demand of the vehicle external thermal energy supply device dependent signal

26

Power transmission device

27

System with vehicle, coupling device, building and external thermal energy supply device

28

Storage for thermal energy, in particular designed as latent heat storage

29

Solar thermal collector

30

Sun

31, 35, 36, 38

Heat cycles for solar thermal collector, combined heat and power plant, building or coupling device

32

CHP

33

Internal combustion engine of the combined heat and power plant

34

generator

37

building

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102009024497 A1 [0004]
• DE 102010051868 A1 [0005]

Claims (15)

Thermal Management System ( 2 ) for a vehicle ( 1 ), in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising: a control unit ( 3 ); a gas exchange unit ( 4 ) for the exchange of gas ( 5 ), in particular air, between the vehicle ( 1 ) and a vehicle external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ); and a communication unit ( 7 ) for signal-based control of the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ); the control unit ( 3 ) is configured: with at least one input to determine whether a transport of thermal energy to the vehicle ( 1 ) or from the vehicle ( 1 ) should be done away; and if so, the communication unit ( 7 ), a signal ( 8th ) to the vehicle external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ), which identifies the request for the transport of thermal energy in order to be able to be detected at the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ) a discharge or uptake of gas ( 5 ) for transporting thermal energy to the vehicle ( 1 ) or from this to request. Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to claim 1, wherein the control unit ( 3 ) is further configured to predictively determine whether a transport of thermal energy to the vehicle ( 1 ) or from the vehicle ( 1 ), the at least one input variable being selected from the following group: meteorological data ( 9 ), Solar radiation to the vehicle or its surroundings, vehicle outside temperature, temperature of a vehicle component, precipitation such as rain or snow, precipitation rate, time, previous request for the transport of thermal energy, user input. Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit ( 3 ) is further configured to selectively determine, with the at least one input variable, whether to transfer thermal energy to at least one vehicle component or away from the at least one vehicle component and, based thereon, transport thermal energy between the at least one vehicle component and the vehicle external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ) to request. Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one temperature sensor ( 10 ); where the signal of the temperature sensor ( 10 ) of the heat surplus and / or the heat demand of the vehicle ( 1 ) or the at least one vehicle component depends; and wherein the signal of the temperature sensor ( 10 ) serves as the at least one input variable or as a further input quantity, on the basis of which the control unit ( 3 ) determines whether a transport of thermal energy between the vehicle external thermal energy supply device and the vehicle ( 1 ) or the at least one vehicle component is to take place. Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an air flap for controlling the gas exchange via the gas exchange unit ( 4 ); the air damper being controlled by the control unit ( 3 ) is controllable so that by opening the damper gas ( 5 ) with the vehicle ( 1 ) via the gas exchange unit ( 4 ) is replaceable if, as determined by the control unit ( 3 ) a transport of thermal energy between the vehicle ( 1 ) and vehicle external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ). Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a cooling circuit ( 12 ) with a heat exchange unit ( 13 ) for a coolant; and a gas movement device ( 14 ); wherein thermal energy by means of the heat exchange unit ( 13 ) between the gas ( 5 ) and the coolant is replaceable; and in addition and for the replacement of gas ( 5 ) between the vehicle ( 1 ) and the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ) the gas ( 5 ) by means of the gas movement device ( 14 ) to the heat exchange unit ( 13 ) and / or is movable away from it. Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to claim 6, wherein the coolant by means of a coolant pump ( 15 ) through the cooling circuit ( 12 ) and by the heat exchange unit ( 13 ) is movable; wherein a thermal contact of at least one vehicle component with the coolant over a part of the cooling circuit ( 12 ) can be produced; and wherein the control unit ( 3 ) is further configured to control the part of the refrigeration cycle ( 12 ), via which the thermal contact with this vehicle component can be produced, to be regulated so that the transport of the thermal energy, the coolant is movable depending on the amount of thermal energy to be transported. Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to claim 7, wherein the part of the cooling circuit ( 12 ), which makes the thermal contact with the at least one vehicle component, further comprises a valve and / or a further coolant pump ( 15 ), whereby the movement of the coolant in this part of the cooling circuit ( 12 ) by the control unit ( 3 ) is controllable. Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to any one of claims 7 or 8, further comprising a coolant flow control, which the coolant until a temperature above 30 ° C, preferably above 50 ° C and more preferably above 80 ° C for heat exchange unit ( 13 ) and / or to flow to the at least one vehicle component; and a coolant flow control bypass configured to direct the coolant around the coolant flow control when, in accordance with detection of the control unit ( 3 ) a transport of thermal energy to the at least one vehicle component is to take place, and thus to allow the flow of coolant to the at least one vehicle component even at temperatures below the values indicated above. Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to one of claims 6 to 9, further comprising: a secondary cooling circuit; and another vehicle component; wherein thermal energy between the another vehicle component and the cooling circuit ( 12 ) is interchangeable via the secondary cooling circuit; the control unit ( 3 ) is further configured to determine whether a transfer of thermal energy to the one or more vehicle components is to occur, and based thereon, the transport of thermal energy between the another vehicle component and the off-board thermal energy supply device ( 6 ) To regulate by means of the secondary cooling circuit demand-dependent. Thermal Management System ( 2 ) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a power transmission unit ( 17 ); and an exchange area ( 16 ) attached to the gas exchange unit ( 4 ) is trained; whereby the exchange of gas ( 5 ) between the vehicle ( 1 ) and the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ) through the exchange area ( 16 ) he follows; wherein the power transmission unit ( 17 ) in the exchange area ( 16 ) is formed or at least less than 10 cm, preferably less than 5 cm, more preferably less than 1 cm away from this; and wherein the power transmission unit ( 17 ) is configured to supply electrical energy to the vehicle electrical system ( 1 ) and thus an electric power in the range of 1 W to 1000 W, preferably from 50 W to 500 W and more preferably from 100 W to 200 W for the vehicle ( 1 ). Vehicle ( 1 ), in particular a motor vehicle, with a thermal management system ( 2 ) according to any one of the preceding claims. Coupling device ( 18 ) for the energy exchange between a vehicle ( 1 ), in particular a vehicle ( 1 ) according to claim 12, and a vehicle-external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ), comprising: a gas exchange device ( 19 ); a coupling area ( 20 ) attached to the gas exchange device ( 19 ) and is shaped or malleable such that gas between the gas exchange device ( 19 ) and the gas exchange unit ( 4 ) of the thermal management system ( 2 ) of the vehicle is interchangeable; and at least one of the following further elements: a power transmission device ( 26 ) in the coupling area ( 20 ) and is configured to supply electrical energy to the electrical system of the vehicle ( 1 ) and thus to provide an electric power in the range of 1 W to 1000 W, preferably from 50 W to 500 W, particularly preferably from 100 W to 200 W for the vehicle; or a heat exchange device ( 22 ) for a heat transport medium ( 21 ) for transporting thermal energy between the coupling device ( 18 ) and the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ), whereby gas ( 5 ) in the coupling device ( 18 ) by means of the heat exchange device ( 22 ) by the exchange of thermal energy with the heat transport medium ( 21 ) can be heated or cooled; or both. Coupling device ( 18 ) according to claim 13, further comprising: a signal receiver ( 23 ) that is configured: a signal ( 25 ), which identifies a request for the transport of thermal energy and / or from a user input ( 24 ) or a heat surplus or heat demand of the vehicle-external thermal energy supply device ( 6 ) depends; and in response to receiving the signal, the coupling device ( 18 ) for gas exchange with the vehicle ( 1 ) or the gas exchange unit ( 4 ) of the thermal management system ( 2 ) to transport thermal energy. Energy transport system for thermal energy exchange with a vehicle ( 1 ) according to claim 12 comprising: an external vehicle thermal energy supply device ( 6 ); and a gas exchange device connected thereto or connectable according to claim 13 or 14.

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