IT202000031469A1 - THERMAL REGULATION DEVICE - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

Field of application

[0001] The present invention relates to a thermal regulation device. In particular, the present invention relates to a device for regulating the temperature of a battery group of an electric and/or hybrid powered vehicle. Furthermore, the present invention relates to an electric and/or hybrid power supply system of a vehicle which comprises said thermal regulation device.

[0002] In particular, the present invention is placed in the automotive sector.

[0003] The thermal regulation device object of the present invention finds, in fact, specific application in an electric and/or hybrid powered vehicle since it can be engaged (i.e. coupled) to a battery group to regulate and control its temperature.

State of the art

[0004] In the state of the art solutions of thermal regulation devices are known which can be coupled to a battery unit of a vehicle to regulate its temperature by means of heat exchange. The battery packs also depending on the operating conditions of the vehicle and the charging conditions can be subject to high and sudden temperature variations which need to be managed and regulated by means of special thermal regulation devices in which the working fluid flows, typically water and glycol : the battery groups are, in fact, coupled or mounted on said thermal regulation devices or vice versa.

[0005] In the currently known embodiments, these thermal regulation devices have a substantially planar shape, resulting in bulkiness exclusively along two main directions and in such a way as to present two ?faces?, wherein on at least one face ? a battery pack can be coupled or mounted.

[0006] A problem encountered in said thermal regulation devices? that of not presenting an effective heat exchange in all of its portions. Furthermore, known thermal regulation devices have limited surfaces available for heat exchange with the cooling fluid.

[0007] In particular, in the solutions of known thermal regulation devices ? It has been observed that the temperature measured at the interface surface between the thermal regulating device and the battery pack lacks uniformity. In fact, important temperature variations have been found on said interface surface. In other words, ? A non-uniform temperature distribution on the interface surface has been verified and a consequent inadequate thermal regulation of the battery pack.

[0008] With the aim of overcoming this problem, have been proposed in the state of the art a variety of of solutions of thermal regulation devices with complex geometries, such as to identify complex fluidic paths for the working liquid. These thermal regulation devices have a particularly complex geometry and layout, thus causing a complex, and therefore even more inefficient, mode of operation. coupling with the battery packs.

Solution of the invention

[0009] ? therefore the need to provide a thermal regulation device which solves the aforementioned problems is strongly felt.

[00010] The purpose of the present invention? that of providing a thermal regulation device which has an effective heat exchange in all its portions, i.e. presenting a temperature on the interface surface of the battery pack which is the lowest? uniform as possible. At the same time said thermal regulation device has an extremely simplified shape and an optimal, effective coupling with the battery packs.

[00011] This purpose? achieved by means of the thermal regulation device claimed in claim 1. Furthermore, this aim is also achieved by the electric and/or hybrid power supply system comprising said thermal regulation device according to claim 18. The dependent claims refer to preferred embodiment variants, having further advantageous aspects.

Description of the drawings

[00012] Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear from the following description of preferred embodiments thereof, given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the attached figures in which:

[00013] ? Figure 1 shows a perspective view with separate parts of the thermal regulation device in accordance with the present invention, according to a variant embodiment;

[00014] ? Figure 2 is a top view of the thermal regulation device of Figure 1;

[00015] ? figures 3a, 3b and 3c show three sectional views along longitudinal planes A-A, B-B and C-C of figure 2;

[00016] ? figures 3d and 3e show two sectional views along transverse planes D-D and E-E of figure 2;

[00017] ? Figure 4 shows a perspective view with separate parts of the thermal regulation device in accordance with the present invention, according to a further embodiment;

[00018] ? figure 5 is a top view of the thermal regulation device of figure 4;

[00019] ? figures 6a, 6b and 6c show three sectional views along longitudinal planes A-A, B-B and C-C of figure 5;

[00020] ? figures 6d and 6e show two sectional views along transverse planes D-D and E-E as in figure 5;

[00021] ? figure 7 shows a perspective view with separate parts of the thermal regulation device in accordance with the present invention, according to a still further embodiment;

[00022] ? Figure 8 illustrates an electric and/or hybrid power supply system of a vehicle comprising a battery group and a thermal regulation device 1 in accordance with the present invention;

[00023] ? Figure 9 illustrates a thermal regulation device in accordance with the present invention, according to yet another embodiment variant. Detailed description

[00024] With reference to the attached figures, with the number 1 ? indicated a thermal regulation device in accordance with the present invention.

[00025] In particular, the thermal regulation device 1 finds specific application coupled to a battery group 800 of an electric and/or hybrid powered vehicle.

[00026] ? object of the present invention, also an electric and/or hybrid power system 900 of a vehicle comprising a battery group 800 and a thermal regulation device 1 in accordance with the present invention. In this 900 electric and/or hybrid power supply system, does the 800 battery group ? coupled to said thermal regulation device 1 in such a way that the latter regulates (controls) its temperature by means of heat exchange. In other words, through the coupling between the battery group 800 and the thermal regulation device 1 ? possible the transfer of thermal power from the coils to the working fluid and/or vice versa.

[00027] It should be emphasized that the shape of the battery pack does not limit the object of the present invention in any way, apart from any characteristics possibly described below.

[00028] In accordance with the present invention, the thermal regulation device 1 has a substantially planar shape.

[00029] In particular, the thermal regulation device 1 identifies a longitudinal axis X-X, a transversal axis Y-Y and a vertical axis V-V. Preferably, the longitudinal axis X-X and the transversal axis Y-Y lie on the same imaginary plane.

[00030] In accordance with the present invention, the thermal regulation device 1 has a prevalent development along the longitudinal axis X-X and along the transversal axis Y-Y, while along the vertical axis V-V the thermal regulation device 1 extends in height .

[00031] In particular, the thermal regulation device 1 comprises a plurality essentially planar elements. Preferably, said substantially planar elements are obtained starting from subsequently worked sheets or plates.

[00032] Specifically, the thermal regulation device 1 in accordance with the present invention comprises an upper plate 2, an intermediate plate 3 and a lower plate 4.

[00033] Note that the terms ?upper? and ?inferior? are used for convenience, in accordance with the enclosed figures representing a preferred embodiment of the thermal regulation device 1, in which the upper plate 2 is? positioned with respect to the vertical axis V-V at a higher height than the lower plate 4. Preferably, the embodiment shown in the enclosed figures is the one in accordance with which the thermal regulation device 1 is preferably positioned in the vehicle, below the battery pack 800. However, they are also possible embodiments in which the thermal regulation device 1 ? mounted in the vehicle in other locations, such as above the 800 battery pack.

[00034] In accordance with the present invention, the thermal regulation device 1 comprises an inlet port 11 of the working fluid, from which the working fluid enters, and an outlet port 12 of the working fluid, from which the working fluid.

[00035] According to a preferred embodiment, the inlet port 11 and the outlet port 12 are positioned substantially proximal to each other.

[00036] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the inlet port 11 and/or the outlet port 12 have respective connecting portions to which appropriate fluid ducts of the vehicle can be connected. Preferably, but not necessarily, the inlet mouth 11 and the outlet mouth 12 extend with their respective connecting portions 110, 120 parallel to the vertical axis. Preferably, but not necessarily, the inlet port 11 and the outlet port 12 are positioned on the same face of the thermal regulation device 1. Preferably, the inlet port 11 and the outlet port 12 are positioned on the plate which engages the unit batteries 800, extending vertically therefrom parallel to said battery pack 800.

[00037] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the thermal regulation device 1 comprises an operating chamber 5 in which the working fluid flows.

[00038] Said operating chamber 5? defined between the upper plate 2 and the lower plate 4. In particular, said operating chamber 5 ? defined by the coupling of the two plates, i.e. by the presence, above, of the upper plate 2 and, below, of the lower plate 4.

[00039] Preferably, the upper plate 2 and the lower plate 4 are perimetrically engaged with each other in a sealed manner.

[00040] According to the present invention, the upper plate 2 comprises upper perimeter edges 20 and the lower plate 4 comprises lower perimeter edges 40.

[00041] Preferably, the perimeter edges consist in the alignment along the perimeter of several? of a perimeter edge. Each perimeter edge corresponds to a section of the perimeter. In the present description reference is therefore made to ?perimeter edges? when indicating the perimeter in its entirety, while referring to ?perimeter edge? when indicating a single stroke.

[00042] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, said mutual sealing engagement between the plates ? located in a region proximal to the upper perimeter edges 20 and to the lower perimeter edges 40.

[00043] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper perimeter edges 20 and the lower perimeter edges 40 are reciprocally engaged in a sealed manner, delimiting the operating chamber 5 within themselves.

[00044] As shown by way of example, in the attached figures, the upper plate 2? entirely planar (as in figures 4, 5 and 6), or substantially planar (as in figures (1, 2 and 3), while the lower plate 4 has such a shape as to include, and therefore define, a housing in which, in its entirety, the operating chamber 5 is defined.

[00045] According to a preferred embodiment, the lower perimeter edges 40 project vertically parallel to the vertical axis V-V, resulting in being engageable by the upper perimeter edges 20.

[00046] In accordance with the present invention, the operating chamber 5 comprises a specific working region 500 for thermal regulation operations and a fluid connection region 550 for fluid connection with the vehicle's cooling fluid supply circuit. In other words, in the thermal regulation device 1 object of the present invention, two regions are distinguished in the operating chamber 5: the working region 500 suitable for heat exchange, and the fluid connection region 550 (for connection to the circulation system of the vehicle's coolant).

[00047] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the inlet port 11 and the outlet port 12 are located in the fluid connection region 550. Preferably, the working region 500 and the fluid connection region 550 are juxtaposed along the ?Y-Y transversal axis.

[00048] According to the present invention, at least one intermediate plate 3? placed between the upper plate 2 and the lower plate 4.

[00049] According to a preferred embodiment, said intermediate plate 3? sandwiched between the upper plate 2 and the lower plate 4.

[00050] According to a preferred embodiment, said intermediate plate 3? housed entirely inside the lower plate 4.

[00051] In accordance with the present invention, said intermediate plate 3 divides the operating chamber 5 into an upper chamber 52 and a lower chamber 54, respectively fluidically connected with the inlet mouth 11 and with the outlet mouth 12 or vice versa.

[00052] In other words, the intermediate plate 3 divides, along the vertical axis V-V, both the working region 500 and the fluid connection region 550 into an upper circulation region and a lower circulation region, i.e. in a chamber upper chamber 52 and a lower chamber 54.

[00053] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper chamber 52 and the lower chamber 54, mutually separated by the presence of the intermediate plate 3, have substantially the same height.

[00054] In accordance with the present invention, the thermal regulation device 1 comprises, within said operating chamber 5, in particular within the working region 500, at least one slit 6 suitable for putting the chamber into fluid communication upper chamber 52 and the lower chamber 54.

[00055] According to a preferred embodiment, the slit 6 is positioned in a region proximal to a perimeter edge of the device.

[00056] According to a preferred embodiment, the slit 6 is positioned in a region proximal to a plurality? of sections that make up the perimeter edges of the device.

[00057] Preferably, slot 6 ? positioned in a region proximal to pi? of a perimeter edge.

[00058] For example, preferably, the slot extends parallel to the transverse axis Y-Y, in other words, transversely to the longitudinal axis X-X, preferably orthogonal to the axis X-X.

[00059] According to a preferred embodiment, the slit 6 is obtained in the intermediate plate 3.

[00060] According to a preferred embodiment, the slit 6 is obtained in a delimited space between an edge of the intermediate plate 3 and the lower perimeter edge 40.

[00061] Furthermore, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, the intermediate plate 3 also comprises an auxiliary opening 350, positioned in the region of fluid connection 550. Preferably, said auxiliary opening 350 has the purpose of allowing the passage of fluid through a region planar connection 35 fully described below.

[00062] Preferably, one of the inlet mouth 11 and the outlet mouth 12 are fluidically connected with said auxiliary opening 350 to communicate fluidly with the lower chamber 54. Preferably, ? the outlet mouth 12 to be fluidically connected with said auxiliary opening 350.

[00063] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the intermediate plate 3? housed entirely in the lower plate 4. In other words, the intermediate plate 3 ? which can be inserted vertically in the space delimited in the lower plate 4 by the lower perimeter edge 40.

[00064] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the intermediate plate comprises an intermediate peripheral edge 30. Preferably, the intermediate peripheral edge 30? complementary to the subjacent space in the lower chamber 54. In other words, the intermediate perimeter edge 30 is complementary to the vertical walls of the lower perimeter edge 40.

[00065] According to a preferred embodiment, the lower plate 4 comprises a lower step 48 positioned proximal to the lower perimeter edge 40.

[00066] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the lower step 48 extends perimetrically in the working region 500, comprising a lower opening 480 adapted to fluidically connect the working region 500 with the fluid connection region 550.

[00067] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the lower step 48 extends perimetrically in the working region 500, comprising a lower opening 480 adapted to fluidically connect the working region 500 with the fluid connection region 550 in the lower chamber 54 .

[00068] According to a preferred embodiment, said lower opening 480 takes the form of an interruption of the development profile of the lower step 48.

[00069] Preferably, the lower step 48 ? engageable, in support, by the intermediate plate 3. Preferably, the intermediate perimeter edge 30, at least in part, engages said lower step 48 in the work region 500.

[00070] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the upper plate 2 comprises a protruding upper step 28, positioned proximal to the upper perimeter edge 20.

[00071] Preferably, the upper step 28 engages the intermediate plate 3. Preferably, the intermediate perimeter edge 30, at least in part, engages said upper step 28 in the work region 500.

[00072] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper step 28 extends perimetrically in the working region 500, comprising an upper opening 280 adapted to fluidically connect the working region 500 with the fluid connection region 550.

[00073] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper step 28 extends perimetrically in the working region 500, comprising an upper opening 280 adapted to fluidically connect the working region 500 with the fluid connection region 550 in the upper chamber 52.

[00074] According to a preferred embodiment, said upper opening 280 takes the form of an interruption of the development profile of the upper step 28.

[00075] In accordance with this preferred embodiment, the upper step 28 is the only protrusion with respect to the perfect flatness? of the top plate 2.

[00076] Preferably, said upper step 28 extends in the same way as the lower step 48 so to be substantially aligned with said lower step 48 along the vertical direction V-V.

[00077] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the upper step 28 is housed in the lower plate 4. Preferably, the upper step 28, engaging the lower perimeter edge 40? suitable to favor the vertical stacking of the upper plate 2 in the lower plate 4.

[00078] Preferably the upper step 28 and the lower step 48 are suitable for sandwiching the intermediate plate 3, preferably by pinching.

[00079] According to the present invention, the intermediate plate 3 is specifically adapted to present circulation portions which direct and/or favor the flow of the working fluid in a preferred direction.

[00080] In accordance with the present invention, in the working region 500, the intermediate plate 3 comprises a sliding planar portion 36 which extends parallel to the slot 6 and axially spaced from it.

[00081] That is to say that said planar sliding portion 36 favors the sliding of the working fluid. Indeed, the planar sliding portion 36 lacks having specific components or protruding elements which hinder the flow of the working fluid.

[00082] In other words, the planar sliding portion 36 ? adapted to locate two flow conduits, the upper flow conduit 520 and the lower flow conduit 540, one in the upper chamber 52 and one in the lower chamber 54 in which the working fluid flows undisturbed from the connection region 550 to the working region 500 or vice versa. In other words, the sliding planar portion 36 is suitable for identifying two flow ducts 520, 540 in which the working fluid flows undisturbed from or towards the inlet port 11 and/or the outlet port 12.

[00083] In still further other words, the sliding planar portion 36 ? without elements of obstacle but ? substantially planar by identifying a preferential direction of flow for the working fluid.

[00084] That is to say that the planar sliding portion 36 ? a portion of the intermediate plate 3 "unmachined", i.e. planar which therefore identifies both in the upper chamber 52 and in the lower chamber 54 respective zones of distribution, or flow, preferential for the working fluid.

[00085] According to a preferred embodiment, the inlet mouth 11 and the outlet mouth 12 are axially spaced apart from the planar sliding portion 36.

[00086] Furthermore, always in accordance with the present invention, in the working region 500, the intermediate plate 3 comprises a circulation portion 31, positioned between the planar sliding portion 36 and the slot 6, comprising vertical protruding elements 312, 314 .

[00087] Differently from the planar sliding portion 36, the circulation portion 31 comprises protruding elements 312, 314 having the purpose of forcing, directing, modifying the flow direction of the working fluid.

[00088] Preferably, in the circulation portion 31, is the working fluid ? instead forced, directed, directed, in such a way as to follow a specific direction of flow and therefore favor the heat exchange.

[00089] Preferably, the circulation portion 31, by means of the vertical protruding elements 312, 314, comprises a plurality of of fluidic channels 310 in which the working fluid circulates.

[00090] Preferably, the circulation portion 31 by means of the vertical protruding elements 312, 314 increases the exchange surface and the turbulence of the cooling fluid. Thanks to the presence of the vertical protruding elements 312, 314, the thermal power that can be managed by the thermal regulation device 1 is increased.

[00091] According to a preferred embodiment, said fluid channels 310 extend axially between the planar sliding portion 36 and the slot 6. Preferably, the fluid channels extend longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X and are mutually spaced along the length of the axis. Y-Y cross axis. Alternatively, the fluidic channels extend parallel to the Y-Y transverse axis and are mutually spaced along the X-X longitudinal axis. In further other words, the location of the fluidic channels 310 is function of the position of the slit 6.

[00092] Preferably, the fluid ducts are alternated in such a way as to present, along the Y-Y transversal axis, a fluid duct 310 belonging to the upper chamber 52 and a fluid duct 310 belonging to the lower chamber 54.

[00093] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the upper protruding elements 312 extend in height along the vertical axis V-V engaging the upper plate 2. Furthermore, the lower protruding elements 314 preferably extend in height along the axis vertical V-V engaging the lower plate 4.

[00094] In accordance with a variant embodiment, the protruding elements are dimples, arranged in a matrix manner with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X and with respect to the transversal axis Y-Y.

[00095] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the intermediate plate 3 is in contact on both faces with the working fluid circulating respectively in the upper chamber 52 and in the lower chamber 54, favoring the transmission of thermal power between the fluid working fluid circulating in the upper chamber 52 and in the lower chamber 54 (i.e. favoring the transmission of heat between the working fluid circulating in the chamber connected to the inlet port 11 and the working fluid circulating in the chamber connected to the outlet port 12) .

[00096] For example, in the case of upper elements 312 and lower elements 314 of conical/pyramidal shape (or in general flared, i.e. dimple) part of the upper chamber 52 and of the lower chamber 54 interpenetrate, remaining separated by the presence of the intermediate plate 3. This interpenetration further favors the heat exchange between the working fluid circulating in the upper chamber 52 and the working fluid circulating in the lower chamber 54.

[00097] In accordance with the above, the circulation portion 31 has the purpose of distributing the working fluid in a homogeneous manner, avoiding that it concentrates only in specific regions of the respective chambers. Furthermore, the circulation portion has the purpose of increasing the available exchange surface and the internal turbulence of the thermal regulation device.

[00098] In accordance with the present invention, in the fluid connection region 550, the intermediate plate 3 comprises a planar connection portion 35.

[00099] That is to say that said planar connection portion 35 determines the flow of the working fluid within the fluidic connection region 550. In fact, the planar connection portion 35 identifies specific regions of flow for the fluid respectively in the upper chamber 52 and in the lower chamber 54 in which the working fluid flows undisturbed from or towards the inlet port 11 and/or the outlet port 12.

[000100] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the thermal regulation device 1, in the fluid connection region 550 comprises a lower connection duct, housed in the lower chamber 52 and an upper connection duct, housed in the upper chamber 54, suitable for fluidly connecting the inlet port 11 and the outlet port 12 with the working region 500.

[000101] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the thermal regulation device 1 comprises a lower element 74 housed below the intermediate plate 3.

[000102] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the thermal regulation device 1 comprises an upper element 72 housed above the intermediate plate 3.

[000103] According to a preferred embodiment, the thermal regulation device 1 comprises a lower element 74, housed in the fluid connection region 550.

[000104] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the lower element 74 is a component in itself? standing in relation to the intermediate plate 3.

[000105] In accordance with a variant embodiment, the lower element 74 is housed and included in the planar connecting portion 35.

[000106] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, moreover, the thermal regulation device 1 comprises an upper element 72 housed in the fluid connection region 550.

[000107] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the upper element 72 is a component in itself? standing in relation to the intermediate plate 3.

[000108] In accordance with a variant embodiment, the upper element 72 is housed and included in the planar connecting portion 35.

[000109] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the lower element 74 and the upper element 72 comprise a lower channel 740 and an upper channel 720 suitable for fluidly connecting the inlet port 11 and with the outlet port 12 with the working region 500.

[000110] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the lower element 74 and the upper element 72 comprise a lower channel 740 and an upper channel 720 suitable for fluidly connecting the planar sliding portion 36 with the inlet mouth 11 and with the outlet mouth 12.

[000111] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the lower element 74 and the upper element 72 are two plate-like elements, preferably cut in such a way as to identify the lower channel 740 and the upper channel 720.

[000112] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the lower element 74 and the upper element 72 are two plates having dimensions substantially complementary to the space in the lower chamber 54 and in the upper chamber 52 of the fluid connection region 550.

[000113] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the upper element 72 comprises a connecting opening 725 able to fluidically connect the auxiliary opening 350 of the intermediate plate (communicating with the lower chamber 54) with the respective mouth, preferably with the outlet 12.

[000114] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, in which the upper plate 2 preferably fails to include the upper step 28, the upper element 72 comprises an upper perimeter bead 728 which extends perimetrically into the working region 500.

[000115] Preferably, the upper perimeter cord 728 comprises an upper opening 7280 suitable for fluidically connecting the working region 500 with the fluid connection region 550, in particular with the upper channel 720.

[000116] In accordance with this preferred embodiment, the upper perimeter cord 728 performs the same role and the same functions as the upper step 28 by sandwiching the intermediate plate 3 with the lower step 48.

[000117] In accordance with a further preferred embodiment, in which the lower plate 4 preferably does not include the lower step 48, the lower element 74 comprises a lower perimeter bead 748 which extends perimetrically in the working region 500.

[000118] Preferably, the lower perimeter cord 748 comprises a lower opening 7480 suitable for fluidly connecting the working region 500 with the fluid connection region 550, in particular with the lower channel 740.

[000119] In accordance with this preferred embodiment, the lower perimeter cord 748 performs the same role and the same functions as the lower step 48 by sandwiching the intermediate plate 3 with the upper plate 2, preferably with the upper step 28 or with the upper perimeter cordon 728 (if present).

[000120] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the steps/cords described above are suitable for fluidically identifying the working region 500, dividing it from the fluidic connection region 550.

[000121] According to the present invention, the working fluid flows in the upper chamber 52 in a first direction while, the working fluid flows in the lower chamber 54 in a second direction opposite to the first direction, so as to flow in counterflow.

[000122] Preferably, the incoming working fluid flows into the upper chamber 52, this being fluidly connected to the inlet mouth 11.

[000123] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the thermal regulation device 1 comprises two work regions 500 suitable for heat exchange with two battery groups 800 and a fluid connection region 550 fluidly connected with the inlet port 11 and with the outlet mouth 12, fluidly connected with both working regions 500, wherein each working region 500 comprises a respective planar sliding portion 36.

[000124] Preferably, the two planar sliding portions 36 are proximal to each other, while the two slots 6 are axially distal to each other.

[000125] Preferably the two planar sliding portions 36 are positioned in the central portion of the thermal regulation device 1 while the two slits 6 are positioned close to the of the perimeter edge.

[000126] Preferably, the two planar sliding portions 36 are connected by respective intermediate connecting portions suitable for fluidly connecting the two working portions both in the upper chamber and in the lower chamber.

[000127] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper plate 2, the intermediate plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are made of metal. Preferably, the upper plate 2, the intermediate plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are made of aluminum (or aluminum alloy) sheets.

[000128] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper plate 2 is in aluminum alloy.

[000129] According to a preferred embodiment, the lower plate 4? in aluminum alloy.

[000130] According to a preferred embodiment, the intermediate plate 3 is in an aluminum alloy. In accordance with some variant embodiments, the intermediate plate 3 is in the same aluminum alloy as the lower plate 4.

[000131] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the upper plate 2, the intermediate plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are mutually joined by brazing.

[000132] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the upper plate 2, the intermediate plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are mutually joined by means of structural adhesives.

[000133] As mentioned, the object of the present invention is also an electric and/or hybrid power supply system 900 of a vehicle comprising a thermal regulation device 1 with the characteristics described above and a battery pack 800 engaged to the thermal regulation device 1 , preferably to its upper plate 2, in correspondence with the working region 500.

[000134] Preferably, the electric and/or hybrid power system 900 of a vehicle comprises a thermal regulation device 1 with two working regions 500 and therefore the system comprises two battery groups 800.

[000135] Preferably, the electric and/or hybrid power supply system 900 of a vehicle comprises a thermal regulation device 1 with a plurality of of 500 work regions (for example 4) and therefore the plant comprises a plurality? of 800 battery packs.

[000136] Innovatively, the thermal regulation device and the electric and/or hybrid power supply system which comprises it, object of the present invention largely fulfill the predetermined purpose, overcoming the typical problems of the prior art.

[000137] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device has an extremely simplified structure.

Advantageously, the thermal regulation device has a simple geometry and a simple fluidic layout which allows easy coupling with the battery group and effective thermal management thereof.

[000138] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device makes it possible to connect the inlet and outlet mouths to the internal circulation regions using plate-like elements which are substantially planar and therefore simple to produce.

[000139] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device allows the internal circulation chambers to be connected to the inlet and outlet mouths by means of suitable shaped channels provided on plate-like elements, substantially planar and simple to manufacture.

[000140] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device object of the present invention ? extremely versatile in its design and placement in the vehicle.

[000141] Advantageously, the manufacturing costs of the thermal regulation device are extremely low.

[000142] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device has a marked structural resistance.

Advantageously, the presence of the intermediate plate, and in particular of its circulation portion, gives high load bearing capacity. Advantageously, the planarity? of the thermal regulation device ? guaranteed over time.

[000143] Advantageously, the presence of the intermediate plate, in particular of the planar connection portion, allows the upper chamber to be separated from the lower chamber in the fluidic connection region in a simple and effective way, favoring the obtainment of an adjustment device characterized by a planar configuration also in the working fluid supply region.

[000144] Advantageously, the presence of the intermediate plate, in particular of the planar connection portion, makes it possible to manage the development of the inlet and outlet supply ducts in the plane rather than in height, favoring the achievement of a compact thermal regulation device, with limited overall height.

[000145] Advantageously, the presence of the intermediate plate, in particular of the planar connection portion, makes it possible to adequately control the passage section of the supply ducts present in the fluidic connection region, both in the upper chamber and in the lower chamber, thus reducing the pressure drops imposed on the circuit, in particular in the region where the fluid enters the working region.

[000146] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device exploits the auxiliary plate-like elements, ie the lower element and the upper element, to increase the structural strength of the thermal regulation device.

[000147] Advantageously, the coupling between plates, and in particular the coupling of the intermediate plate in the lower plate, is extremely simplified and error-proof.

[000148] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device exploits the perimetric edges of the upper plate and of the lower plate to define the operating chamber, and in particular the working region and the fluid connection region, minimizing the sealing surfaces and increasing the reliability of the component and of the system in which ? installed.

[000149] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device has high dimensional tolerances, particularly with regard to flatness.

[000150] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device makes it possible to reduce the thickness of the filling materials (gap filler, thermal pad) usually positioned between the battery pack and the thermal regulation device to ensure uniform contact between the two components. Advantageously, the thermal regulation device makes it possible to simplify the assembly operations of the system and reduce the costs associated with the production of the vehicles on which they are installed.

[000151] Advantageously, the fluid passages have controlled dimensions, in particular the fluid passages have uniform widths.

[000152] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device comprises a suitably sized fluidic connection region which allows minimizing the impact of the pressure drops caused by the circulation ducts inside the device on the cooling fluid supply circuit.

[000153] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device comprises a fluid connection region which allows the design of the thermal regulation device to be managed flexibly according to the layout of the vehicle's cooling circuit and the available dimensions.

[000154] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device comprises a region of fluidic connection which allows to maintain a specific orientation between the planar sliding portion, the slot, the circulation portion and the cells of the battery group, maximizing the heat exchange with the fluid of work on the supply circuit in which the device is installed.

[000155] Advantageously, the fluidic connection region allows the fluidic connection of the inlet and outlet mouths to be adequately managed with the planar sliding portion, allowing the double-chamber device solution to be adapted to power supply systems with different layouts and/or to systems in which, for example, the position of the inlet and outlet mouths cannot? be obtained in the vicinity? of the planar sliding portion.

[000156] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device comprises a fluid connection region in fluid connection with a plurality of of regions of work by means of a plurality? of planar portions of sliding thus allowing? to adapt the double-chamber solution also to complex fuel systems and/or including a plurality? of battery packs such as for example in the case of power supply systems for large vehicles? powers (truck ? bus ? work machines).

[000157] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device has an effective thermal exchange with the battery pack. Advantageously, each portion of the battery group coupled to it receives and subjected to the same effective heat exchange. Advantageously, the thermal regulating device has a wider temperature distribution. uniform at the interface surface with the battery pack.

[000158] Advantageously, said structure makes it possible to increase the uniformity of the temperature in correspondence with the plate positioned in correspondence with the interface between the thermal regulation device and the battery group, ensuring compliance with optimal temperature conditions for battery operation, as well as for their duration and stability.

[000159] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device has a cavity operative divided into more? separate rooms in the vertical direction, thus obtaining? a reciprocal heat exchange also between the portions of fluid which flow inside the thermal regulation device itself.

[000160] Advantageously, the thermal regulation device allows maintaining the temperature at the interface with the battery pack within a limited range (about 3? 5?C) which is in turn lower than the temperature difference measured between the working fluid at the inlet and the working fluid at the outlet of the device itself.

[000161] Advantageously, the available exchange surface is increased in the working region and ? detected an increase in the heat transfer coefficient (HTC - W/m<2>K) of the thermal regulation device. A higher value? high of this coefficient allows to effectively transfer the thermal power from the battery to the working fluid (or vice versa) both in nominal load conditions and in overload conditions in which the power to be transferred can? increase significantly.

[000162] Advantageously, for example in the presence of working conditions which require cooling of the coils, the increase in the heat exchange coefficient makes it possible to guarantee compliance with a specific exchange temperature at the interface between the coils and the thermal regulation device even for values more? high temperatures of the working fluid entering the thermal regulation device. From this effect derive consequent advantages on the circuit used for cooling the working fluid. In fact, this effect makes it possible to simplify or remove components installed on the working fluid circulation circuit (e.g. evaporators, compressors, condensers) and used to regulate (preferably lower) the temperature of the working fluid entering the thermal regulation device.

[000163] ? it is clear that a technician in the sector, in order to satisfy contingent needs, could make modifications to the thermal regulation device, to the electric power supply system and/or described above, all contained in the scope of protection as defined by the following claims.

Reference number list:

[000164]

1 thermal regulation device

11 inlet

12 outlet mouth

2 top plate

20 upper perimeter border

28 top step

280 top opening

3 intermediate plate

30 intermediate perimeter edge

31 circulation portion

310 fluidic channels

312 upper projecting element

314 lower projecting member

35 connecting planar portion

350 auxiliary opening

36 planar portion of scroll

4 bottom plate

40 lower perimeter edge

48 lower step

480 bottom opening

5 operating room

52 upper chamber

520 top flow duct

54 lower chamber

540 bottom flow duct

500 working region

550 fluidic link region

72 top element

720 upper channel

725 fitting opening

728 upper perimeter cord

7280 top opening

74 lower element

740 bottom channel

748 lower perimeter cordon

7480 bottom opening

800 battery pack

900 electric and/or hybrid fuel system X-X longitudinal axis Y-Y transversal axis V-V vertical axis.

Claims (19)

1. A thermal regulation device (1) of a battery pack (800) of an electric and/or hybrid powered vehicle, having a substantially planar shape identifying a longitudinal axis (X-X), a transversal axis (Y-Y) and a vertical axis (V-V); wherein the thermal regulation device (1) comprises along the vertical axis (V-V) an upper plate (2), comprising upper perimetric edges (20) and a lower plate (4) comprising lower perimetric edges (40), in which the thermal regulation device (1) ? perimetrically sealed in a region proximal to the upper peripheral edges (20) and to the lower peripheral edges (40) comprising an operating chamber (5); wherein the thermal regulation device (1) comprises an inlet port (11) and an outlet port (12) of the working fluid; wherein the operating chamber (5) comprises a working region (500) specific for thermal regulation operations and a fluid connection region (550) in which the inlet port (11) and the outlet port (12) are positioned ); wherein the thermal regulation device (1) further comprises an intermediate plate (3) which divides the operating chamber (5) into an upper chamber (52) and a lower chamber (54) respectively fluidically connected with the inlet port (11 ) and with the outlet (12) or vice versa; wherein the thermal regulation device (1), inside the working region (500) comprises at least one slit (6), preferably positioned proximally to a perimeter edge, suitable for putting the upper chamber (52) into fluid communication and the lower chamber (54); wherein, in the working region (500), the intermediate plate (3) comprises a sliding planar portion (36) extending parallel to the slot (6) and axially spaced therefrom, and a circulation portion (31), positioned between the sliding planar portion (36) and the slot (6), comprising vertical protruding elements (312, 314); wherein, in the fluid connection region (550), the intermediate plate (3) comprises a connection planar portion (35). 2. A thermal regulating device (1) according to claim 1, further comprising, in the fluid connection region (550), a lower duct, housed in the lower chamber (52) and an upper duct, housed in the upper chamber (54), suitable for fluidly connecting the inlet port (11) and the outlet port (12) with the working region (500). 3. A thermal regulation device (1) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, further comprising, in the fluid connection region (550), a lower element (74), housed below the intermediate plate (3) and an element upper (72) housed above the intermediate plate (3); wherein the lower element (74) and the upper element (72) comprise a lower channel (740) and an upper channel (720) suitable for fluidly connecting the planar sliding portion (36) with the inlet mouth (11) and with the outlet (12). 4. A thermal regulation device (1) in accordance with claim 3, wherein the lower element (74) and the upper element (72) are two plate-like elements, preferably two platelets, preferably cut, identifying the lower channel ( 740) and the upper channel (720). 5. A thermal regulating device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the slot (6) is? obtained in the intermediate plate (3). 6. A thermal regulation device (1) in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lower plate (4) comprises vertically protruding lower perimeter edges (40), to house the intermediate plate (3) inside it, engageable by the upper plate (2), and the lower chamber (54) and the upper chamber (52). 7. Thermal regulation device (1) in accordance with claim 5, wherein the upper chamber (52) and the lower chamber (54), mutually separated by the presence of the intermediate plate (3), have substantially the same height. 8. Thermal regulating device (1) in accordance with any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the bottom plate (4) comprises a bottom step (48) positioned proximal to the bottom perimeter edges (40), wherein said bottom step (48) ? engageable by the intermediate plate (3). 9. Thermal regulating device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the lower step (48) extends perimetrically in the working region (500), comprising a lower opening (480) adapted to fluidically connect the working region (500) with the fluidic link region (550), in the lower chamber (54). 10. Thermal regulation device (1) in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper plate (2) comprises a protruding upper step (28), positioned proximal to the upper perimeter edges (20), wherein said upper step (28) engages the intermediate plate (3), in which the upper step (28) extends perimetrically in the working region (500), comprising an upper opening (280) adapted to fluidically connect the working region (500) with the fluidic connection region (550), in the upper chamber (52). 11. Thermal regulating device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 in combination with claims 3 and 4, wherein the upper element (72) comprises an upper perimeter bead (728) which extends perimetrically in the working region (500), comprising an upper opening (780) adapted to fluidically connect the working region (500) with the fluidic connection region (550), in particular with the upper channel (720). 12. Thermal regulation device (1) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein the circulation portion (31), by means of the vertical protruding elements (312, 314), comprises a plurality of of fluidic channels (310) in which the working fluid circulates, in which said fluidic channels (310) extend axially between the planar sliding portion (36) and the slot (6). 13. Thermal regulating device (1) in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper protruding elements (312) extend in height along the vertical axis (V-V) engaging the upper plate (2), wherein the lower protruding elements (314) extend in height along the vertical axis (V-V) engaging the lower plate (4). 14. Thermal regulating device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet port (11) and the outlet port (12) are axially spaced apart from the sliding planar portion (36). The thermal regulating device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the working fluid flows in the upper chamber (52) in a first direction while, the working fluid flows in the lower chamber (54) in a second direction opposite to the first direction, so as to flow in counterflow. 16. Thermal regulation device (1) in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, comprising two working regions (500) suitable for heat exchange with two battery groups (800) and a fluid connection region (550) fluidically connected with the inlet mouth (11) and with the outlet mouth (12), fluidly connected with both working regions (500), wherein each working region (500) comprises a respective planar sliding portion (36). 17. Thermal regulation device (1) according to claim 15, wherein the two planar sliding portions (36) are proximal to each other, while the two slits (6) are axially distal to each other. 18. Electric and/or hybrid power system (900) of a vehicle comprising a thermal regulating device (1) in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 15, and a battery pack (800) engaged to the thermal regulating device (1), preferably to the upper plate (2), in correspondence with the working region (500). 19. Electric and/or hybrid power supply system (900) of a vehicle comprising a thermal regulation device (1) in accordance with any one of claims 15 to 16, and two battery packs (800) engaged to the thermal regulation device (1), preferably to the upper plate (2), in correspondence with the two work regions (500).