阅读说明：本技术 由控制装置执行的用于控制车辆的冷却和加热系统的方法 (Method executed by control device for controlling cooling and heating system of vehicle ) 是由 A·克拉松 P·乔林德 O·哈尔 R·舍丁 L·艾尔利格 于 2019-10-01 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种由控制装置(100)执行的用于控制车辆(2)中的冷却和加热系统(1)的方法。该方法包括确定(s101)至少一个储能装置(6)的温度；确定(s102)用于货物和/或乘客的舱室(8)中的温度；基于该至少一个储能装置(6)的已确定的温度、该至少一个储能装置(6)的预先确定的期望温度、用于货物和/或乘客的舱室(8)中的已确定的温度和用于货物和/或乘客的舱室(8)中的预先确定的期望温度来控制(s103)加热器装置(12)；以及基于该至少一个储能装置(6)的已确定的温度、该至少一个储能装置(6)的预先确定的期望温度、用于货物和/或乘客的舱室(8)中的已确定的温度和用于货物和/或乘客的舱室(8)中的预先确定的期望温度来控制(s104)控制阀(14)。本发明还涉及一种计算机程序(P)、一种计算机可读介质、一种控制装置(100)、一种用于车辆(2)的冷却和加热系统(1)和一种车辆(2)。(The invention relates to a method performed by a control device (100) for controlling a cooling and heating system (1) in a vehicle (2). The method comprises determining (s101) a temperature of at least one energy storage device (6); determining (s102) a temperature in a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers; controlling (s103) a heater device (12) based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the determined temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers; and controlling (s104) the control valve (14) based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the determined temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers. The invention also relates to a computer program (P), a computer-readable medium, a control device (100), a cooling and heating system (1) for a vehicle (2) and a vehicle (2).)

1. A method performed by a control device (100) for controlling a cooling and heating system (1) of a vehicle (2),

wherein the system (1) comprises:

-a first fluid circuit (4) for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device (6) and a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers in a vehicle (2), the first fluid circuit (4) comprising a heater device (12), a control valve (14) and at least one radiator device (16);

wherein the control valve (14) is arranged to direct the first fluid (15) in the first fluid circuit (4) through the at least one radiator arrangement (16) and/or through a bypass conduit (20) in the first fluid circuit (4); and

wherein the at least one radiator arrangement (16) is arranged in connection with a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers,

the method comprises the following steps:

determining (s101) a temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6).

Determining (s102) a temperature in a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers;

controlling (s103) a heater device (12) based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the determined temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers; and

controlling (s104) the control valve (14) based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the determined temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein controlling (s104) the control valve (14) comprises controlling the control valve (14) to direct a first fluid (15) through the bypass conduit (20), and wherein, if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) is below a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) and the determined temperature in the cabin (8) for cargo and/or passengers is above the predetermined desired temperature of the cabin (8) for cargo and/or passengers, controlling (s103) the heater device (12) comprises controlling the heater device (12) to increase the temperature of the first fluid (15) in the first fluid circuit (4) for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6).

3. Method according to claim 1, wherein, if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) is lower than the determined temperature of the cabin (8) for cargo and/or passengers, controlling (s104) the control valve (14) comprises controlling the control valve (14) to direct a first fluid (15) through the at least one radiator device (16) for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6).

4. A method according to claim 3, wherein controlling (s103) the heater device (12) comprises controlling the heater device (12) to increase the temperature of the first fluid (15) in the first fluid circuit (4) for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) and for increasing the temperature of the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers.

5. A method according to claim 1, wherein, if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) is higher than a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), controlling (s104) the control valve (14) comprises controlling the control valve (14) to direct the first fluid (15) through the at least one radiator device (16) for reducing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6).

6. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises the step of:

controlling (s105) at least one fan (24) of the system (1) for generating a forced air flow through the at least one heat sink device (16).

7. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises the step of:

controlling (s106) at least one air guiding device (26) for recirculating air that has passed through the at least one radiator arrangement (16).

8. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises the step of:

determining (s107) an ambient temperature outside the vehicle (2),

wherein the steps of controlling (s103) the heating means (12) and controlling (s104) the control valve (14) are further based on the ambient temperature.

9. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system (1) further comprises:

a heat exchanger (10) arranged in the first fluid circuit (4); and

a second fluid circuit (18) connected to the heat exchanger (10) to exchange heat with the first fluid circuit (4), the second fluid circuit (18) comprising the at least one energy storage device (6);

wherein the method further comprises the steps of:

controlling (s108) circulation of the second fluid in the second fluid circuit (18).

10. A computer program (P) comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer (100; 500), cause the computer (100; 500) to carry out the method according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer (100; 500), cause the computer (100; 500) to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-9.

12. A control device (100) for controlling a cooling and heating system (1) of a vehicle (2),

wherein the system (1) comprises:

a first fluid circuit (4) for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device (6) and a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers in a vehicle (2), the first fluid circuit (4) comprising a heater device (12), a control valve (14) and at least one radiator device (16);

wherein the control valve (14) is arranged to direct the first fluid (15) in the first fluid circuit (4) through the at least one radiator arrangement (16) and/or through a bypass conduit (20) in the first fluid circuit (4); and

wherein the at least one radiator arrangement (16) is arranged in connection with a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers,

the control device (100) is configured to:

determining a temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6);

determining the temperature in a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers; and

controlling a heater device (12) based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the determined temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers; and

the control valve (14) is controlled on the basis of the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6), the determined temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers.

13. The control device (100) according to claim 12, wherein the control device (100) is configured to control the control valve (14) to direct the first fluid (15) through the bypass conduit (20) and to control the heater device (12) to increase the temperature of the first fluid (15) in the first fluid circuit (4) for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) is below a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) and the determined temperature in the cabin (8) for cargo and/or passengers is above the predetermined desired temperature of the cabin (8) for cargo and/or passengers.

14. The control device (100) according to claim 12, wherein the control device (100) is configured to control the control valve (14) to direct a first fluid through the at least one radiator device (16) for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) is lower than the determined temperature in the cabin (8) for cargo and/or passengers.

15. The control device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 14, wherein the control device (100) is configured to control the heater device (12) to increase the temperature of the first fluid (15) in the first fluid circuit (4) for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) and for increasing the temperature of the cabin (8) for cargo and/or passengers.

16. The control device (100) according to claim 12, wherein the control device (100) is configured to control the control valve (14) to direct the first fluid (15) through the at least one radiator device (16) for reducing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6) is higher than a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device (6).

17. The control device (100) according to any one of claims 12-16, wherein the control device (100) is further configured to:

at least one fan (24) of the control system (1) for generating a forced air flow through the at least one heat sink device (16).

18. The control device (100) according to any one of claims 12-17, wherein the control device (100) is further configured to:

controlling at least one air guiding device (26) for recirculating air that has passed through the at least one radiator arrangement (16).

19. The control device (100) according to any one of claims 12-18, wherein the control device (100) is further configured to:

an ambient temperature (2) outside the vehicle is determined, and the heater device (12) and the control valve (14) are further controlled based on the ambient temperature.

20. The control device (100) according to any one of claims 12-19, wherein the system (1) further comprises:

a heat exchanger (10) arranged in the first fluid circuit (4); and

a second fluid circuit (18) connected to the heat exchanger (10) to exchange heat with the first fluid circuit (4), the second fluid circuit (18) comprising the at least one energy storage device (6);

wherein the control device (100) is further configured to:

controlling circulation of the second fluid in the second fluid circuit (18).

21. A cooling and heating system (1) for a vehicle (2),

wherein the system (1) comprises:

a first fluid circuit (4) for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device (6) and a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers in the vehicle (2), the first fluid circuit (4) comprising a heater device (12), a control valve (14) and at least one radiator device (16),

wherein the control valve (14) is arranged to direct the first fluid (15) in the first fluid circuit (4) through the at least one radiator arrangement (16) and/or through a bypass conduit (20) in the first fluid circuit (4); and

wherein the at least one radiator arrangement (16) is arranged in connection with a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers,

the system (1) comprises:

the control device (100) according to any one of claims 12-20.

22. A vehicle (2) with a cabin (8) for goods and/or passengers, the vehicle (2) comprising a cooling and heating system (1) according to claim 21.

23. Vehicle (2) according to claim 22, wherein the vehicle (2) is a modular vehicle comprising a functional module (62) and at least one drive module (60), the at least one drive module (60) comprising:

a pair of wheels (64); and

a propulsion unit (65) connected to the wheels (64);

wherein the drive module (60) is configured to be operated autonomously and to drive the vehicle (2), wherein the functional module (62) and/or the at least one drive module (60) comprises a control device (100).

24. Vehicle (2) according to claim 23, wherein the at least one energy storage device (6) is arranged in a functional module (62).

25. Vehicle according to claim 23 or 24, wherein said at least one energy storage device (6) is arranged in said at least one drive module (60).

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a method performed by a control device for controlling a cooling and heating system of a vehicle. The invention also relates to a computer program, a computer readable medium, a control device, a cooling and heating system and a vehicle according to the appended claims.

Background

The propulsion battery of the vehicle and the power electronics that control the propulsion of the vehicle may be cooled or heated to reach the operating temperature of the propulsion battery and power electronics so that the power propulsion machinery in the vehicle may provide the power needed to propel the vehicle.

The passenger compartment in the vehicle may also be heated or cooled. The system for climatizing a passenger cabin may be adapted to regulate the temperature and humidity in the passenger cabin.

The propulsion battery may be connected to a heat sink for cooling and heating the propulsion battery. The radiator may be arranged in a space in the vehicle, which space may be in communication with the ambient air outside the vehicle, as well as with the passenger compartment. Air guides, such as flaps, may be arranged to open and close openings in the body of the vehicle to direct air through the radiator. Air passing through the heat sink may cool or heat the propulsion battery. The cooling system for the passenger compartment, such as the passenger air conditioning system, may be separate from other components in the vehicle that require cooling.

Document EP3045331a2 discloses a thermal management system for a vehicle comprising a battery thermal control circuit connected to a passenger cabin thermal control circuit by means of a four-way valve.

Today's vehicles are often manufactured for specific purposes, for example buses are manufactured for transporting personnel and trucks are manufactured for transporting goods. Such vehicles are typically manufactured and fully assembled at the factory, or may be partially assembled at the factory and completed at the body manufacturer. Once the vehicle assembly is complete, the vehicle may be used for a specific purpose. Therefore, the bus can be used as a bus, and the garbage truck can be used as a garbage truck. Thus, different vehicles are required for different purposes, which may require a large fleet of vehicles and may be very expensive. Accordingly, it may be desirable to be able to customize the vehicle to different tasks.

For example, there are known solutions in which the truck can be remanufactured by changing the concrete mixer to a loading platform. This increases flexibility and two different functions can be achieved by one vehicle. In addition, document US2016/0129958A discloses a modular electric vehicle using replaceable vehicle assembly modules. The user may thus disassemble and reassemble the vehicle for different applications. However, disassembling and reassembling such a vehicle would be a very cumbersome and time consuming task. Furthermore, when one of the known vehicle modules fails, it may be difficult to replace the failed module, which may result in the vehicle being unusable for a considerable period of time. It can also be cumbersome to bring a replacement module to the vehicle site where the module failed.

Disclosure of Invention

Despite the known solutions in the art, it is desirable to improve the efficiency of an energy storage device in a vehicle by controlling the temperature of the energy storage device to an operating temperature. It is also desirable to effectively control the temperature of a cabin for cargo and/or passengers in a vehicle. It is also desirable to reduce the power required for heating and cooling the at least one energy storage device and the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve the efficiency of an energy storage device in a vehicle by controlling the temperature of the energy storage device to an operating temperature.

It is another object of the present invention to effectively control the temperature of a cabin for cargo and/or passengers in a vehicle.

It is another object of the invention to reduce the power required for heating and cooling the at least one energy storage device and the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

The object described herein is achieved with a method, a method performed by a control arrangement for controlling a cooling and heating system of a vehicle. The objects mentioned herein are also achieved by a computer program, a computer readable medium, a control device, a cooling and heating system and a vehicle according to the appended claims.

According to one aspect of the invention, a method performed by a control device for controlling a cooling and heating system in a vehicle, wherein the system comprises: a first fluid circuit for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device and a cabin for cargo and/or passengers in a vehicle, the first fluid circuit comprising a heater device, a control valve and at least one radiator device; wherein the control valve is arranged to direct the first fluid in the first fluid circuit through the at least one radiator arrangement and/or through a bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit; and wherein the at least one radiator arrangement is arranged in connection with a cabin for goods and/or passengers, the method comprising: determining a temperature of the at least one energy storage device; determining a temperature in a cabin for cargo and/or passengers; controlling a heater arrangement based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers; and controlling the control valve based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a control apparatus for controlling a cooling and heating system in a vehicle, wherein the system comprises: a first fluid circuit for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device and a cabin for cargo and/or passengers in a vehicle, the first fluid circuit comprising a heater device, a control valve and at least one radiator device; wherein the control valve is arranged to direct the first fluid in the first fluid circuit through the at least one radiator arrangement and/or through a bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit; and wherein the at least one radiator arrangement is arranged in connection with a cabin for goods and/or passengers, the control arrangement being configured to: determining a temperature of the at least one energy storage device; determining a temperature in a cabin for cargo and/or passengers; and controlling the heater arrangement based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers; and controlling the control valve based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

By such a method and control device, the efficiency of the at least one energy storage device is increased. Furthermore, the temperature of the cabin for goods and/or passengers is effectively controlled and the power required for heating and cooling the at least one energy storage device and the cabin for goods and/or passengers is reduced.

The at least one energy storage device is effectively cooled or heated to reach an operating temperature so that the power propulsion machinery in the vehicle can provide the power required for propelling the vehicle. The at least one energy storage device may include at least one energy storage device, such as a propulsion battery, for propelling the vehicle. The at least one energy storage device may further comprise power electronics for controlling the at least one energy storage unit and for controlling the propulsion of the vehicle.

The cabin for goods and/or passengers in the vehicle is also effectively heated or cooled by means of the method and the control device. The cooling and heating system in the vehicle may thus be adapted to regulate the temperature in both the cabin for goods and/or passengers and the at least one energy storage device.

Other objects, advantages and novel features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, and by practicing the invention. Although the invention is described below, it should be apparent that the invention may not be limited to the details specifically described. Those skilled in the art, having the benefit of the teachings herein, will recognize additional applications, modifications, and combinations in other fields, which applications, modifications, and combinations are within the scope of the present invention.

Drawings

Preferred embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1a schematically shows a cooling and heating system for a vehicle according to one embodiment;

FIG. 1b schematically shows a cooling and heating system for a vehicle according to one embodiment;

fig. 2 schematically shows a side view of a vehicle provided with a cooling and heating system according to one embodiment;

fig. 3a and 3b schematically show side views of a modular vehicle provided with a cooling and heating system according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4a shows a flow chart of a method performed by a control device for controlling a cooling and heating system in a vehicle according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4b shows a flowchart of a method performed by a control device for controlling a cooling and heating system in a vehicle according to one embodiment; and (c) and (d).

Fig. 5 schematically shows a control device or computer according to an embodiment.

Detailed Description

A vehicle according to the present disclosure may be a bus or a truck provided with a cabin for transporting passengers and/or goods. The chamber may be cooled or heated to achieve a predetermined desired temperature within the chamber. The vehicle further includes at least one energy storage device for propelling the vehicle. The at least one energy storage device may be cooled or heated to reach an operating temperature.

The vehicle may be a modular vehicle that may be operated autonomously. Modular vehicles are typically assembled at the customer's location so that the customer can purchase a set of modules from the manufacturer. The assembled vehicle may comprise at least two modules, including at least one drive module and at least one functional module. Such modular vehicles are suitable for use with a variety of road vehicles and may therefore relate to heavy vehicles such as buses, trucks and the like which may be used on public roads.

The method performed by the control device for controlling a cooling and heating system in a vehicle will effectively heat or cool the cabin for goods and/or passengers. Furthermore, the efficiency of the at least one energy storage device is increased. The power required for heating and cooling the at least one energy storage device and the cabin for goods and/or passengers is reduced. The at least one energy storage device is effectively cooled or heated to reach an operating temperature such that the power propulsion machinery in the vehicle can provide the power required for propelling the vehicle. The at least one energy storage device may include at least one energy storage device, such as a propulsion battery, for propelling the vehicle. The at least one energy storage device may further comprise power electronics for controlling the at least one energy storage unit and for controlling the propulsion of the vehicle.

According to one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method performed by a control device for controlling a cooling and heating system in a vehicle, wherein the system comprises: a first fluid circuit for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device and a cabin for cargo and/or passengers in a vehicle, the first fluid circuit comprising a heater device, a control valve and at least one radiator device; wherein the control valve is arranged to direct the first fluid in the first fluid circuit through the at least one radiator arrangement and/or through a bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit; and wherein the at least one radiator arrangement is arranged in connection with a cabin for goods and/or passengers, the method comprising: detecting a temperature of the at least one energy storage device; determining a temperature in a cabin for cargo and/or passengers; controlling a heater arrangement based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers; and controlling the control valve based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

The first fluid circuit is configured for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device in the vehicle and a cabin for cargo and/or passengers. Heat from the first fluid is transferred to the at least one energy storage device for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device. When the temperature of the at least one energy storage device should be reduced, heat from the at least one energy storage device is transferred to the first fluid.

The heater device in the first fluid circuit is controlled based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. The temperature of the at least one energy storage device may be determined by means of a temperature sensor. The predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device may correspond to an operating temperature for the at least one energy storage device. The operating temperature for the at least one energy storage device is the temperature at which the at least one energy storage device provides power at the most efficient level for propelling the vehicle. The determined temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers can be determined by means of a temperature sensor. The predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers may be about 20 ℃, which is the temperature that many humans find most comfortable.

Heat from the first fluid in the first fluid circuit may be transferred to the cabin for goods and/or passengers by the at least one radiator arrangement for increasing the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers. If the temperature of the first fluid is lower than the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers, the first fluid may absorb heat from the air in the cabin for goods and/or passengers through the at least one radiator device, thereby reducing the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers.

The control valve in the first fluid circuit is arranged to direct the first fluid through the at least one radiator arrangement and/or through a bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit. The control valve is controlled based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. A bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit may direct a first fluid through the at least one radiator device for increasing or decreasing a temperature in a cabin for cargo and/or passengers and/or for increasing or decreasing a temperature of the at least one energy storage device.

Alternatively, if the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers should not be affected by the temperature of the first fluid in the first fluid circuit, the control valve is controlled to direct the first fluid through the bypass conduit to circulate the first fluid back through the at least one energy storage device. The number and size of the radiators may depend on the volume of the cabin for the cargo and/or passengers.

According to one embodiment, if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is below a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device and the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers is above the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, controlling the control valve comprises controlling the control valve to direct a first fluid through the bypass conduit, and wherein controlling the heater device comprises controlling the heater device to increase the temperature of the first fluid in the first fluid circuit for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device.

If the temperature of the energy storage device is below its predetermined desired temperature and the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers is above the predetermined desired temperature, the heated first fluid in the first fluid circuit should not pass through the radiator arrangement in the passenger cabin. Instead, the control valve is controlled to direct the heated first fluid through the bypass conduit and further to the at least one energy storage device. The first fluid in the first fluid circuit will thus bypass the radiator arrangement. Furthermore, if the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers is at a predetermined desired temperature, the control valve may be controlled to direct the first fluid in the first fluid circuit through the bypass conduit, thereby bypassing the radiator arrangement, to avoid a temperature increase in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

According to one embodiment, controlling the control valve comprises controlling the control valve to direct a first fluid through the at least one radiator arrangement for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device, if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is lower than the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

The temperature of the air in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers being higher than the temperature of the energy storage device may be used to increase the temperature of the energy storage device. The control valve may be controlled to direct the first fluid in the first fluid circuit to flow through the radiator arrangement such that warm air in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers will transfer heat to the first fluid in the first fluid circuit through the radiator arrangement. Thus, the temperature in the first fluid will increase after it has passed the heat sink device. Thereafter, the first fluid will transfer heat to the at least one energy storage device.

According to one embodiment, controlling the heater arrangement comprises controlling the heater arrangement to increase the temperature of the first fluid in the first fluid circuit for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device and for increasing the temperature of the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

The first fluid in the first fluid circuit may be heated by a heater arrangement. Thus, heat generated in the heater device is transferred to the first fluid. Since the first fluid is arranged to circulate and pass through the radiator arrangement and the at least one energy storage device, the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers and the temperature of the energy storage device will increase when heat from the first fluid is transferred through the radiator arrangement to the cabin for goods and/or passengers and through the radiator arrangement to the second fluid and further to the energy storage device. In order to increase the temperature of the at least one energy storage device and in order to increase the temperature of the cabin for goods and/or passengers by means of the heat in the first fluid, the control valve may be controlled to direct the first fluid through the radiator arrangement.

According to one embodiment, controlling the control valve comprises controlling the control valve to direct a first fluid through the at least one heat sink device for reducing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is higher than a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device.

The at least one heat sink device may act as a cooler for the first fluid. Thus, when the first fluid passes through the heat sink device, the air passing through the heat sink device may lower the temperature of the first fluid if the temperature of the air passing through the heat sink device is lower than the temperature of the first fluid. The reduced temperature first fluid flows to the at least one energy storage device. At least one energy storage device to which heat will be transferred to the first fluid. The temperature of the energy storage device will decrease as heat from the at least one energy storage device is transferred to the first fluid. The temperature of the air passing through the radiator arrangement may be increased. If the determined temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers is below a predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers, heated air that has passed through the radiator arrangement can be led into the cabin for goods and/or passengers for increasing the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers.

The method also includes controlling at least one fan of the system for generating a forced airflow through the at least one heat sink device.

The forced airflow through the at least one heat sink device may be generated by at least one fan. The fan may be connected to the motor. The speed of the fan may be controlled by controlling the speed of the motor. By increasing the airflow through the at least one heat sink device, the heat transfer through the at least one heat sink device may be increased. By controlling the rotational speed of the fan, the heat transfer through the at least one heat sink device can be controlled. The forced airflow may include ambient air from outside the vehicle and outside the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. The forced air flow may comprise recirculated air that has recently passed through the at least one heat sink device. The number of fans may depend on the number and size of the heat sinks.

The method further comprises controlling at least one air guiding device for recirculating air that has passed through the at least one heat sink device.

The at least one air directing means may be controlled to recirculate air through the at least one heat sink means. If the air is heated by the at least one radiator arrangement, the recirculated air, when recirculated, has a higher temperature than when the previous air passed through the at least one radiator arrangement. The at least one air guide may be controlled to recirculate air mixed with ambient air from outside the vehicle.

The method further includes determining an ambient temperature outside the vehicle, wherein the steps of controlling the heater device and controlling the control valve are further based on the ambient temperature.

The ambient temperature outside the vehicle may have an effect on the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. The predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers may be about 20 c if the passengers should stay in the cabin. However, if the ambient temperature drops below 20 ℃, heat should be transferred to the cabin for the cargo and/or passengers. To transfer heat to the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, the control valve is controlled to direct the first fluid through the at least one radiator. Depending on the temperature of the first fluid, the at least one fan may be activated and controlled to a speed for forcing air through the at least one heat sink. Furthermore, the at least one air guiding device may be controlled for recirculating air through the at least one radiator device and through the cabin for goods and/or passengers. If necessary, the heater may be controlled for increasing the heat of the first fluid. Depending on the temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the temperature of the first fluid having passed the at least one heat sink has to be taken into account. If the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is below the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the temperature of the first fluid that has passed through the at least one heat sink should be high enough to increase the temperature of the at least one energy storage device for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device to the predetermined desired temperature. In case the ambient temperature increases above the predetermined desired temperature of the cabin for goods and/or passengers, the cabin for goods and/or passengers may be cooled by means of the air conditioning device if the temperature of the cabin for goods and/or passengers increases above the predetermined desired temperature of the cabin for goods and/or passengers. In this case, depending on the temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the heater may be turned off and the control valve may be controlled to direct the first fluid through the bypass conduit. However, if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is higher than the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the control valve may be controlled to direct the first fluid through the at least one heat sink for reducing the temperature of the first fluid. The at least one air guiding device may thus be controlled for guiding air that has passed through the at least one radiator device away from the cabin for goods and/or passengers to avoid that the cabin for goods and/or passengers is heated by air that has passed through the at least one radiator.

According to one embodiment, the system further comprises: a heat exchanger disposed in the first fluid circuit; and a second fluid circuit connected to the heat exchanger to exchange heat with the first fluid circuit, the second fluid circuit including the at least one energy storage device; wherein, the method also comprises the following steps: controlling circulation of the second fluid in the second fluid circuit.

The heat exchanger arranged in the first fluid circuit is configured to exchange heat between a first fluid circulating in the first fluid circuit and a second fluid circulating in the second fluid circuit. Thus, the second fluid circuit is also connected to the heat exchanger. Heat from the first fluid is transferred to the second fluid for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device. When the temperature of the at least one energy storage device should be reduced, heat from the second fluid is transferred to the first fluid.

The present disclosure also relates to a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the above disclosed method. The invention also relates to a computer readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the above disclosed method.

Furthermore, the present disclosure also relates to a control device for controlling a cooling and heating system in a vehicle, wherein the system comprises: a first fluid circuit for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device and a cabin for cargo and/or passengers in a vehicle, the first fluid circuit comprising a heater device, a control valve and at least one radiator device; wherein the control valve is arranged to direct the first fluid in the first fluid circuit through the at least one radiator arrangement and/or through a bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit; and wherein the at least one radiator arrangement is arranged in connection with a cabin for goods and/or passengers, the control arrangement being configured to: determining a temperature of the at least one energy storage device; determining a temperature in a cabin for cargo and/or passengers; and controlling the heater arrangement based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers; and controlling the control valve based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

The first fluid circuit is configured for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device in the vehicle and a cabin for cargo and/or passengers. Heat from the first fluid is transferred to the at least one energy storage device for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device. Heat from the at least one energy storage device is transferred to the first fluid for reducing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device.

The control device is configured to control the heater device in the first fluid circuit based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. The control device may be configured to determine the temperature of the at least one energy storage device by means of a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be connected to the control device to provide information to the control device to determine the temperature of the at least one energy storage device. The predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device may correspond to an operating temperature of the at least one energy storage device. The operating temperature of the at least one energy storage device is the temperature at which the at least one energy storage device provides power at the most efficient level for propelling the vehicle. The control device may be configured to determine the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers by means of a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be connected to the control device in order to provide information to the control device in order to determine the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers. The predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers may be about 20 ℃, which is the temperature that many humans find most comfortable.

Heat from the first fluid in the first fluid circuit may be transferred to the cabin for goods and/or passengers by the at least one radiator arrangement for increasing the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers. If the temperature of the first fluid is lower than the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers, the first fluid may absorb heat from the air in the cabin for goods and/or passengers through the at least one radiator device, thereby reducing the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers.

The control device is configured to control the control valve in the first fluid circuit to direct the first fluid through the at least one radiator device and/or through the bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit. The control device is configured to control the control valve based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. A bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit may direct a first fluid through the at least one radiator device for increasing or decreasing the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers and/or increasing or decreasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device. Alternatively, the control device is configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the bypass conduit to circulate the first fluid back through the at least one energy storage device if the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers should not be affected by the temperature of the first fluid in the first fluid circuit.

According to one aspect, the control device is configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the bypass conduit and control the heater device to increase the temperature of the first fluid in the first fluid circuit for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is below a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device and the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers is above the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

If the temperature of the energy storage device is below its predetermined desired temperature and the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers is above the predetermined desired temperature, the heated first fluid in the first fluid circuit should not pass through the radiator arrangement in the passenger cabin. Instead, the control device is configured to control the control valve to direct the heated first fluid through the bypass conduit and further to the at least one energy storage device. The first fluid in the first fluid circuit will thus bypass the radiator arrangement. In addition, if the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers is at a predetermined desired temperature, the control device will control the control valve to direct the first fluid in the first fluid circuit through the bypass conduit, thereby bypassing the radiator arrangement, in order to avoid a temperature increase in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

According to one aspect, the control device is configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the at least one radiator device for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is lower than the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

The temperature of the air in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers being higher than the temperature of the energy storage device may be used to increase the temperature of the energy storage device. The control device is configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid in the first fluid circuit to flow through the radiator arrangement such that warm air in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers will transfer heat to the first fluid in the first fluid circuit through the radiator arrangement. The temperature in the first fluid will thus increase after it has passed the radiator arrangement. Thereafter, the first fluid will transfer heat to the at least one energy storage device.

According to one aspect, the control device is configured to control the heater device to increase the temperature of the first fluid in the first fluid circuit for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device and for increasing the temperature of the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

The first fluid in the first fluid circuit may be heated by a heater arrangement. Thus, heat generated in the heater device is transferred to the first fluid. The control device is configured to control the heater device. The heat in the heater arrangement may be generated by means of an electric heating element. Since the first fluid is arranged to circulate and pass the radiator means and the at least one energy storage means, the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers and the temperature of the energy storage means will increase when heat from the first fluid is transferred through the radiator means to the cabin for goods and/or passengers and to the second fluid and further to the energy storage means through the radiator means. In order to increase the temperature of the at least one energy storage device and in order to increase the temperature of the cabin for goods and/or passengers by means of the heat in the first fluid, the control device may be configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the radiator arrangement.

According to one aspect, the control device is configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the at least one heat sink device for reducing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is higher than a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device.

The at least one heat sink device may act as a cooler for the first fluid. Thus, the control means is configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the radiator means such that the air passing through the radiator means may reduce the temperature of the first fluid if the temperature of the air passing through the radiator means is lower than the temperature of the first fluid. The reduced temperature first fluid flows to the at least one energy storage device. In the at least one energy storage device, heat will be transferred to the first fluid. The temperature of the at least one energy storage device will decrease as heat from the at least one energy storage device is transferred to the first fluid. The temperature of the air passing through the radiator arrangement may increase. The control device may be configured to direct heated air, which has passed through the radiator device, to the cabin for goods and/or passengers for increasing the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers, if the determined temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers is below a predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers.

Furthermore, according to an embodiment, the control device is configured to control at least one fan of the system for generating a forced air flow through the at least one heat sink device.

The forced airflow through the at least one heat sink device may be generated by at least one fan. The fan may be connected to the motor. The control means may be configured to control the speed of rotation of the fan by controlling the speed of the motor. By increasing the air flow through the at least one radiator arrangement, the heat transfer through the at least one radiator arrangement may be increased. By configuring the control means to control the rotational speed of the fan, the heat transfer through the at least one heat sink device may be controlled. The forced airflow may include ambient air from outside the vehicle and outside the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. The forced air flow may comprise recirculated air that has recently passed through the at least one heat sink device.

Furthermore, according to an embodiment, the control device is configured to control the at least one air guiding device for recirculating air that has passed through the at least one heat sink device.

The control means may be configured to control the at least one air-directing means to recirculate air through the at least one heat sink device. If the air is heated by the at least one radiator arrangement, the recirculated air has a higher temperature when recirculated than when the previous air passed through the at least one radiator arrangement. The control device may be configured to control the recirculation air to mix with ambient air from outside the vehicle.

Furthermore, according to one embodiment, the control device is configured to determine an ambient temperature outside the vehicle, and further to control the heater device and control the control valve based on the ambient temperature.

The ambient temperature outside the vehicle may have an effect on the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. The predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers may be about 20 c if the passenger should stay in the cabin. However, if the ambient temperature drops below 20 ℃, heat should be transferred to the cabin for the cargo and/or passengers. To transfer heat to the cargo and/or passenger compartment, the control device is configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the at least one radiator. The control means is configured to activate and control the at least one fan to a speed at which air is forced through the at least one heat sink, dependent on the temperature of the first fluid. Furthermore, the control device is configured to control the at least one air guiding device for recirculating air through the at least one radiator device and through the cabin for goods and/or passengers. The control device is configured to control the heater for increasing the heat of the first fluid, if required. Depending on the temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the temperature of the first fluid having passed the at least one heat sink has to be taken into account. If the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is below the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the temperature of the first fluid that has passed through the at least one heat sink should be high enough to increase the temperature of the at least one energy storage device to the predetermined desired temperature. In case the ambient temperature increases above the predetermined desired temperature of the cabin for goods and/or passengers, the cabin for goods and/or passengers may be cooled by means of the air conditioning device if the temperature of the cabin for goods and/or passengers increases above the predetermined desired temperature of the cabin for goods and/or passengers. In this case, depending on the temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the control device is configured to turn off the heater and control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the bypass conduit. However, the control device is configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the at least one heat sink for reducing the temperature of the first fluid if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device is higher than a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device. The control device may in this case be configured to control the at least one air guiding device to direct air that has passed through the at least one radiator device out of the cabin for goods and/or passengers in order to avoid that the cabin for goods and/or passengers is heated by air that has passed through the at least one radiator.

According to one embodiment, the system further comprises: a heat exchanger disposed in the first fluid circuit; and a second fluid circuit connected to the heat exchanger to exchange heat with the first fluid circuit, the second fluid circuit including the at least one energy storage device; wherein the control device is further configured to control circulation of the second fluid in the second fluid circuit.

The heat exchanger arranged in the first fluid circuit is configured to exchange heat between a first fluid circulating in the first fluid circuit and a second fluid circulating in the second fluid circuit. Thus, the second fluid circuit is also connected to the heat exchanger. Heat from the first fluid is transferred to the second fluid for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device. Heat from the second fluid is transferred to the first fluid for reducing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device.

Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a cooling and heating system for a vehicle, wherein the system comprises a first fluid circuit for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device and a cabin for cargo and/or passengers in the vehicle, the first fluid circuit comprising a heater device, a control valve and at least one radiator device; wherein the control valve is arranged to direct the first fluid in the first fluid circuit through the at least one radiator arrangement and/or through a bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit; and wherein the at least one radiator arrangement is arranged in connection with a cabin for goods and/or passengers, the system comprising the above-mentioned control arrangement.

The first fluid circuit of the cooling and heating system is configured for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device and a cabin for cargo and/or passengers in the vehicle. Heat from the first fluid is transferred to the at least one energy storage device for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device. Heat from the at least one energy storage device is transferred to the first fluid for reducing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device.

The control device of the cooling and heating system is configured to control the heater device in the first fluid circuit based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. The control device may be configured to determine the temperature of the at least one energy storage device by means of a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be connected to the control device to provide information to the control device to determine the temperature of the at least one energy storage device. The predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device may correspond to an operating temperature of the at least one energy storage device. The operating temperature of the at least one energy storage device is the temperature at which the at least one energy storage device provides power at the most efficient level for propelling the vehicle. The control device may be configured to determine the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers by means of a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be connected to the control device in order to provide information to the control device in order to determine the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers. The predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers may be about 20 ℃, which is the temperature that many humans find most comfortable.

The heat from the first fluid in the first fluid circuit may be transferred to the cabin for goods and/or passengers by the at least one radiator arrangement of the cooling and heating system for increasing the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers. If the temperature of the first fluid is lower than the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers, the first fluid may absorb heat from the air in the cabin for goods and/or passengers through the at least one radiator device, thereby reducing the temperature in the cabin for goods and/or passengers.

The control device is configured to control the control valves of the cooling and heating system in the first fluid circuit to direct the first fluid through the at least one radiator device and/or through the bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit. The control device is configured to control the control valve based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers. A bypass conduit in the first fluid circuit may direct a first fluid through the at least one radiator device for increasing or decreasing the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers and/or increasing or decreasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device. Alternatively, the control device is configured to control the control valve to direct the first fluid through the bypass conduit to circulate the first fluid back through the at least one energy storage device if the temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers should not be affected by the temperature of the first fluid in the first fluid circuit.

The disclosure also relates to a vehicle with a cabin for goods and/or passengers, which vehicle comprises the above-mentioned cooling and heating system.

Such a vehicle may be a heavy vehicle, such as a truck or a bus. The vehicle may alternatively be a passenger car. The vehicle may be manually operated, remotely operated, or autonomously operated. The vehicle may be propelled by an electric motor and/or an internal combustion engine.

According to one embodiment, the vehicle is a modular vehicle comprising a functional module and at least one drive module, the at least one drive module comprising a pair of wheels; and a propulsion unit connected to the wheel; wherein the drive module is configured to be operated autonomously and to drive the vehicle, wherein the functional module and/or the at least one drive module comprises a control device.

At least one driver module may be used with different functional modules. The functional module may be designed for a specific purpose. Thus, by combining the drive module with a suitable functional module, the vehicle can be customized depending on different tasks. Functional modules may be prepared to perform specific functions, and autonomously operated drive modules may be connected with the functional modules to achieve an assembled vehicle tailored for specific tasks. For example, the at least one functional module may be provided with a cabin for goods and/or passengers for accommodating passengers and may thus act as a bus when assembled with the at least one drive module. According to another embodiment, the at least one functional module may be provided with a load compartment for accommodating loads and goods and may thus act as a truck when assembled with the at least one drive module.

The at least one drive module, and thus the assembled vehicle, may be configured to be operated autonomously. The control device included in the functional module may be configured to receive commands and instructions from a control center or an off-board system and execute the commands/instructions to drive the vehicle, as well as for controlling the vehicle height relative to the road surface. In this way, the assembled vehicle may be self-propelled based on the received commands and instructions. The control means comprised in any of the modules may also control the assembled vehicle to be driven or operated autonomously, based on data from the at least one sensor element, taking into account what may happen during transport. Autonomous operation of the modular vehicle may thus include determining a temperature of the at least one energy storage device; determining a temperature in a cabin for cargo and/or passengers; controlling a heater arrangement based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers; and controlling the control valve based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device, the determined temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin for cargo and/or passengers.

The functional module is adapted to be releasably connected to the drive module to form an assembled vehicle. The drive module includes a pair of wheels and is configured to be autonomously operated and to drive the assembled vehicle when the drive module and the functional module are connected. The functional module comprises at least one connection member adapted to physically connect the functional module to the drive module. The functional module may also include a wheel.

The connection means may comprise a physical interface for physically connecting and disconnecting the modules. The driver module and the functional module suitably each comprise at least one physical interface for physically connecting and disconnecting the respective module. The physical interfaces on the drive modules are connected to a control device configured to control the physical interfaces on the drive modules to physically connect and disconnect the modules. The functional module may be configured with a recess. The recess may be adapted to the drive module. Due to the presence of the recess, the length of the assembled vehicle will coincide with the length of the functional module. However, the functional module may not be provided with the recess, and the driving module may be directly connected to the front side or the rear side of the functional module.

The control means may be comprised in the drive module. However, the control means may alternatively be comprised in the functional module. Both the drive module and the functional module may be provided with control means. The control device may be connected to the sensor device and the connecting member.

The first fluid circuit of the cooling and heating system may extend through both the drive module and the functional module. The heat exchanger of the cooling and heating system may be arranged in one of the drive modules or in a functional module. The second fluid circuit may extend through both the drive module and the functional module. The control valves of the cooling and heating system may be arranged in one of the drive modules or in a functional module. The interface between the modules may be adapted to interconnect different components, such as the first and second fluid circuits, when the modules are interconnected. Each drive module and functional module may alternatively have separate cooling and heating systems that are not connected to each other.

According to one embodiment, the at least one energy storage device is arranged in the functional module.

Since the second fluid circuit is connected to the at least one energy storage device, the second fluid circuit or at least a part of the second fluid circuit is also arranged in the functional module.

According to one embodiment, the at least one energy storage device is arranged in the at least one drive module.

Since the second fluid circuit is connected to the at least one energy storage device, the second fluid circuit or at least a part of the second fluid circuit is also arranged in the at least one drive module.

The disclosure will now be further explained with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1a schematically shows a cooling and heating system 1 for a vehicle 2 according to one embodiment. The system 1 comprises a first fluid circuit 4 for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device 6 in the vehicle 2 and a cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers. The control valve 14 is arranged to direct the first fluid 15 in the first fluid circuit 4 through the at least one radiator arrangement 16 and/or through a bypass conduit 20 in the first fluid circuit 4. The at least one radiator arrangement 16 is arranged in connection with the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers. The cooling and heating system 1 comprises at least one fan 24 for generating a forced air flow through the at least one heat sink device 16. The cooling and heating system 1 comprises at least one air guiding device 26 for recirculating air that has passed the radiator arrangement 16 through the radiator arrangement 16. The arrows in the first fluid circuits 4, 18 show how the first fluid 15 circulates in the first circuit 4. The energy storage device 6 may be arranged in the cabin 8 of the goods and/or passengers or in a separate energy storage device cabin 27 (fig. 2).

The cooling and heating system 1 comprises a control device 100. The control device 100 is configured to control the control valve 14 to direct the first fluid 15 through the radiator device 16 and/or through the bypass conduit 20. The control device 100 is configured to control the fan 100 of the system for generating the forced air flow. Control device 100 is configured to control air-directing device 26. The fan motor 25 is connected to the fan 24.

In fig. 1a, the direction of the gas flow is schematically illustrated by means of arrows. The first arrow 41 shows how the air flows through the radiator arrangement 16 and into the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers. The second arrow 42 shows how the air from the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers is guided by the air guiding device 26. The air guide 26 may discharge air into the ambient air, as illustrated by the third arrow 43. The recirculated air is illustrated by fourth and fifth arrows 44, 45. The ambient air directed to the radiator arrangement 16 is illustrated by a sixth arrow 46. The air directed to the radiator arrangement 16 may be air mixed with recirculation air and ambient air, which is illustrated by the seventh arrow 47. The at least one air guiding device 26 may be arranged to mix the recirculation air with the ambient air.

The first fluid circuit 4 comprises a first circulation pump 30 for circulating the first fluid 15 in the first fluid circuit 4. The first fluid circuit 4 includes a first expansion tank 32 that absorbs excess fluid pressure caused by thermal expansion in the first fluid circuit 4.

The cooling and heating system 1 comprises a plurality of temperature sensors 40 connected to a control device 100. The temperature sensor 40 may detect the ambient temperature outside the vehicle 2, the temperature of the first fluid 15, the temperature of the energy storage device 6, and the temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers. The control device 100 is configured to determine an ambient temperature outside the vehicle 2, thereby controlling the heater device 12, the control valve 14, the fan 24 and the air guiding device 26 based on the ambient temperature. The control device 100 may also be configured to determine the ambient temperature outside the vehicle 2, the temperature of the first and second fluids 15, 22, the temperature of the energy storage device 6 and the temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers, to control the heater device 12, the control valve 14, the fan 24 and the air guiding device 26 based on said temperatures. Several temperature sensors 40 may be arranged in the first fluid circuit 4 in order to detect the temperature of the first fluid 15 at different positions in the first fluid circuit 4.

The at least one energy storage device 6 may comprise at least one energy storage unit 7, such as a propulsion battery, for propelling the vehicle. The at least one energy storage device may also comprise power electronics 9 for controlling the at least one energy storage unit 7 and for controlling a propulsion unit 65 (fig. 3a) of the vehicle 2. A heat exchange element 38 may be arranged at the energy storage device 6 for transferring heat between the energy storage device 6 and the first fluid 4 in the first fluid circuit 15. Thus, both the at least one energy storage device 7 and the power electronics 9 can transfer heat to and from the first fluid 4 via the heat exchange element 38.

Fig. 1b schematically shows a cooling and heating system 1 for a vehicle 2 according to one embodiment. The system 1 comprises a first fluid circuit 4 for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device 6 in the vehicle 2 and a cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers. The first fluid circuit 4 comprises a heat exchanger 10, a heater arrangement 12, a control valve 14 and at least one radiator arrangement 16. The system 1 further comprises a second fluid circuit 18 connected to the heat exchanger 10 for exchanging heat with the first fluid circuit 4. The second fluid circuit 18 includes the at least one energy storage device 6. The control valve 14 is arranged to direct the first fluid 15 in the first fluid circuit 4 through the at least one radiator arrangement 16 and/or through a bypass conduit 20 in the first fluid circuit 4. The at least one radiator arrangement 16 is arranged in connection with the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers. The second fluid 22 is configured to circulate in the second fluid circuit 18. The cooling and heating system 1 comprises at least one fan 24 for generating a forced air flow through the at least one heat sink device 16. The cooling and heating system 1 comprises at least one air guiding device 26 for recirculating air that has passed the radiator arrangement 16 through the radiator arrangement 16. The arrows in the first and second fluid circuits 4, 18 show how the first and second fluids 15, 22 circulate in the circuits 4, 18. However, the second fluid 18 may circulate in the opposite direction. The energy storage device 6 can be arranged together with the second fluid circuit 18 in the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers or in a separate energy storage device cabin 27 (fig. 2).

The cooling and heating system 1 comprises a control device 100. The control device 100 is configured to control the control valve 14 to direct the first fluid 15 through the radiator device 16 and/or through the bypass conduit 20. The control device 100 is configured to control the fan 100 of the system to generate a forced airflow. Control device 100 is configured to control air-directing device 26. The fan motor 25 is connected to the fan 24.

In fig. 1b, the direction of the gas flow is schematically illustrated by means of arrows. The first arrow 41 shows how the air flows through the radiator arrangement 16 and into the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers. The second arrow 42 shows how the air from the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers is guided by the air guiding device 26. The air guide 26 may discharge air into the ambient air, as illustrated by the third arrow 43. The recirculated air is illustrated by fourth and fifth arrows 44, 45. The ambient air directed to the radiator arrangement 16 is illustrated by a sixth arrow 46. The air directed to the radiator arrangement 16 may be air mixed with recirculation air and ambient air, which is illustrated by the seventh arrow 47. The at least one air guiding device 26 may be arranged to mix the recirculation air with the ambient air.

The first fluid circuit 4 comprises a first circulation pump 30 for circulating the first fluid 15 in the first fluid circuit 4. The first fluid circuit 4 comprises a first expansion tank 32 which absorbs excess fluid pressure caused by thermal expansion in the first fluid circuit 4.

The second fluid circuit 18 comprises a second circulation pump 34 for circulating the second fluid 22 in the second fluid circuit 18. The second fluid circuit 18 includes a second expansion tank 36 that absorbs excess fluid pressure caused by thermal expansion in the second fluid circuit 18.

The at least one energy storage device 6 may comprise at least one energy storage unit 7, such as a propulsion battery, for propelling the vehicle. The at least one energy storage device may also comprise power electronics 9 for controlling the at least one energy storage unit 7 and for controlling a propulsion unit 65 (fig. 3a) of the vehicle 2. A heat exchange element 38 may be arranged at the energy storage device 6 for transferring heat between the energy storage device 6 and the second fluid 22 in the second fluid circuit 18. Thus, both the at least one energy storage device 7 and the power electronics 9 may transfer heat to and from the second fluid 22 via the heat exchange element 38.

The cooling and heating system 1 comprises a plurality of temperature sensors 40 connected to a control device 100. The temperature sensor 40 may detect the ambient temperature outside the vehicle 2, the temperature of the first and second fluids 15, 22, the temperature of the energy storage device 6, and the temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers. The control device 100 is configured to determine an ambient temperature outside the vehicle 2, thereby controlling the heater device 12, the control valve 14, the fan 24 and the air guiding device 26 based on the ambient temperature. The control device 100 may also be configured to determine the ambient temperature outside the vehicle 2, the temperature of the first and second fluids 15, 22, the temperature of the energy storage device 6 and the temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers, to control the heater device 12, the control valve 14, the fan 24 and the air guiding device 26 based on said temperatures. Several temperature sensors 40 may be arranged in the first and second fluid circuits 4, 18 in order to detect the temperature of the first and second fluids 15, 22 at different locations in the first and second fluid circuits 4, 18.

Fig. 2 schematically shows a side view of a vehicle 2 provided with a cooling and heating system 1 according to one embodiment. The system 1 comprising the first and second fluid circuits 4, 18 is only schematically shown in fig. 2. However, the radiator arrangement 16, the fan 24, the energy storage arrangement 6 and the air guiding arrangement 26 of the system 1 are disclosed. The energy storage device 6 may be arranged in the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers or in a separate energy storage device cabin 27.

The vehicle 2 may comprise a partition element 48 arranged between a main body 51 of the vehicle 2 and the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers.

The air guide 52 is arranged to open and close a first body inlet opening 52 in the body 51 and a first compartment outlet opening 54 in the partition wall element 48. The radiator arrangement 16 may be arranged in a space 49 formed between the partition element 48 and the body 51. The air guide 52 is arranged to open and close a first body outlet opening 56 in the body 51. The air guide 52 is also arranged to open and close a second body outlet opening 58 in the body 51.

Fig. 3a schematically shows a side view of a modular vehicle 2 comprising two drive modules 60 and a functional module 62, which vehicle is provided with a cooling and heating system 1 according to one embodiment. The system 1 comprising the first and second fluid circuits 4, 18 is only schematically shown in fig. 3 a. The drive module 60 is adapted to be releasably connected to the function module 62 to form the assembled vehicle 2. In fig. 3a, the drive module 60 and the function module 62 are disconnected from each other. Each drive module 60 includes a pair of wheels 64 and a propulsion unit 65 connected to the wheels 64. When the drive modules 60 and the function modules 62 are connected, each drive module 60 is configured to be operated autonomously and to drive the assembled vehicle 2. The functional module 62 includes at least one connecting member 66 adapted to physically connect the functional module 62 to the drive module 60. The functional module 62 and/or the at least one drive module 60 comprise a control device 100. The energy storage device 6 may be arranged in the functional module 62. The energy storage device 6 may be arranged in at least one drive module 60.

Fig. 3b schematically shows a side view of the modular vehicle 2. The system 1 comprising the first and second fluid circuits 4, 18 is only schematically shown in fig. 3 b. In fig. 3b, the driver module 60 and the function module 62 are connected to each other. The connected drive module 60 and functional modules together form the assembled vehicle 2. The drive module 60 and the function module 62 are connected by means of a connecting member 66.

Fig. 4a shows a flow chart of a method performed by the control device 100 for controlling the cooling and heating system 1 in the vehicle 2 according to one embodiment. The method thus relates to controlling the cooling and heating system 1 in the vehicle disclosed in fig. 1-3. The system 1 comprises a first fluid circuit 4 for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device 6 and a cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers in the vehicle 2, the first fluid circuit 4 comprising a heater device 12, a control valve 14 and at least one radiator device 16; wherein the control valve 14 is arranged to direct the first fluid 15 in the first fluid circuit 4 through the at least one radiator arrangement 16 and/or through a bypass conduit 20 in the first fluid circuit 4; and wherein the at least one radiator arrangement 16 is arranged in connection with the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers. The method comprises determining s101 a temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6; determining s102 a temperature in the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers; controlling s103 the heater device 12 based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, the determined temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers; and controlling s104 the control valve 14 based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, the determined temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers.

Fig. 4b shows a flow chart of a method performed by the control device 100 for controlling the cooling and heating system 1 in the vehicle 2 according to one embodiment. The method thus relates to controlling the cooling and heating system 1 in the vehicle 2 as disclosed in fig. 1-3. The system 1 comprises a first fluid circuit 4 for cooling and heating at least one energy storage device 6 and a cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers in the vehicle 2, the first fluid circuit 4 comprising a heater device 12, a control valve 14 and at least one radiator device 16; wherein the control valve 14 is arranged to direct the first fluid 15 in the first fluid circuit 4 through the at least one radiator arrangement 16 and/or through a bypass conduit 20 in the first fluid circuit 4; and wherein the at least one radiator arrangement 16 is arranged in connection with the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers. The method comprises determining s101 a temperature of at least one energy storage device 6; determining s102 a temperature in the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers; controlling s103 the heater device 12 based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, the determined temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers; and controlling s104 the control valve 14 based on the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, the determined temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers, and the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers.

According to one aspect, controlling s104 the control valve 14 comprises controlling the control valve 14 to direct the first fluid 15 through the bypass conduit 20, and wherein, if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6 is below the predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6 and the determined temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers is above the predetermined desired temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers, controlling s103 the heater device 12 comprises controlling the heater device 12 to increase the temperature of the first fluid 15 in the first fluid circuit 4 for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6. According to one aspect, controlling s104 the control valve 14 comprises controlling the control valve 14 to direct the first fluid 15 through the at least one radiator arrangement 16 for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6 is lower than the determined temperature in the cabin 8 for cargo and/or passengers. According to one aspect, controlling s103 the heater arrangement 12 comprises controlling the heater arrangement 12 to increase the temperature of the first fluid 15 in the first fluid circuit 4 for increasing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6 and for increasing the temperature of the cabin 8 for goods and/or passengers. According to one aspect, controlling s104 the control valve 14 comprises controlling the control valve 14 to direct the first fluid 15 through the at least one radiator arrangement 16 for reducing the temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6, if the determined temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6 is higher than a predetermined desired temperature of the at least one energy storage device 6. According to one aspect, the method further comprises the steps of: at least one fan 24 of the system 1 is controlled s105 for generating a forced air flow through the at least one heat sink device 16. According to one aspect, the method further comprises the steps of: controlling s106 the at least one air guiding device 26 for recirculating air that has passed the at least one radiator arrangement 16 through the at least one radiator arrangement 16. According to one aspect, the method further comprises the steps of: determining s107 an ambient temperature outside the vehicle 2, wherein the steps of controlling s103 the heater means 12 and controlling s104 the control valve 14 are further based on the ambient temperature. According to one aspect, the method further comprises the steps of: controlling s108 the circulation of the second fluid in the second fluid circuit 18.

Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of a version of the apparatus 500. The control device 100 of the cooling and heating system 1 may in one version comprise a device 500. The apparatus 500 comprises a non-volatile memory 520, a data processing unit 510 and a read/write memory 550. The non-volatile memory 520 has a first memory element 530 in which a computer program for controlling the functions of the apparatus 500, for example an operating system, is stored. The device 500 further includes a bus controller, a serial communication port, I/O components, a/D converters, time and date input and transmission units, event counters, and an interrupt controller (not shown). The non-volatile memory 520 also has a second storage element 540.

A computer program P is provided comprising routines for performing the security method. The program P may be stored in the memory 560 and/or the read/write memory 550 in an executable form or in a compressed form.

When the data processing device 510 is described as performing a certain function, it is meant that the data processing device 510 causes certain parts of the program stored in the memory 560 or certain parts of the program stored in the read/write memory 550.

The data processing device 510 may communicate with a data port 599 via a data bus 515. The non-volatile memory 520 is intended to communicate with the data processing device 510 via a data bus 512. The separate memory 560 is intended to communicate with the data processing means 510 via a data bus 511. The read/write memory 550 is adapted for communication with the data-processing unit 510 via a data bus 514.

When data is received on the data port 599, they are temporarily stored in the second storage element 540. When the received input data has been temporarily stored, the data processing unit 510 prepares to implement code execution as described above.

Part of the methods described herein may be implemented by the apparatus 500 by means of a data processing unit 510 running a program stored in a memory 560 or a read/write memory 550. The method described herein is performed when the apparatus 500 runs the program.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles and the practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to understand the embodiments for various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Within the framework of embodiments, the components and features described above can be combined between the different embodiments described.