Liquid storage box

Abstract

The present invention provides a liquid storage tank comprising: a tank body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe for supplying coolant into the tank body; an outlet pipe for discharging coolant from the tank body; and a columnar member erected inside the tank body. The inlet pipe is connected to the tank body on a lower side in the vertical direction than the surface of the coolant stored inside the tank body. Furthermore, when viewed along the centerline of the inlet pipe, the columnar member extends in a substantially vertical direction, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the centerline of the inlet pipe.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-162929 filed with the Japan Patent Office on September 29, 2020 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-169517 filed with the Japan Patent Office on October 7, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to liquid storage tanks. Background Technology

[0004] Liquid cooling systems are flexibly applied to the cooling of internal combustion engines, electrical components, and electronic circuit boards. In a liquid cooling system, heat is collected from the components being cooled by circulating coolant, and dissipated through radiators, thereby cooling the components. In liquid cooling systems, a coolant tank, or reservoir, is sometimes installed in the coolant path for circulation. The reservoir compensates for coolant loss due to vaporization and absorbs volume changes caused by temperature variations. Furthermore, if air bubbles are generated in the coolant, cooling efficiency can sometimes decrease. Therefore, the reservoir is sometimes used to separate air bubbles from the coolant, i.e., gas-liquid separation is performed.

[0005] For example, in the technology disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-248753, a rectangular baffle is arranged in a windmill-like manner with a specific orientation in the main body of the liquid reservoir. Patent Document 1 discloses that, according to this liquid reservoir, there is no increase in water flow resistance or structural complexity, and air bubbles can be separated from the coolant. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The coolant reservoir includes: a main body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe for supplying coolant into the main body; an outlet pipe for discharging coolant from the main body; and a columnar member erected inside the main body. The inlet pipe is connected to the main body on a lower side in the vertical direction than the surface of the coolant stored inside the main body. When viewed along the centerline of the inlet pipe, the columnar member extends in a generally vertical direction, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the centerline of the inlet pipe. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the structure of the liquid storage tank in the first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the liquid storage tank in the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the function of the liquid storage tank in the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the function of the liquid storage tank in the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure and function of the liquid storage tank in the first modified example.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the structure of the liquid storage tank in the second embodiment.

[0013] Figures 7A to 7F It is a cross-sectional view showing the shape of a modified example of a columnar component.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the structure of the liquid storage tank in the third embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the function of the liquid storage tank in the reference example.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the structure of the liquid storage tank in the fourth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0017] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are presented for illustrative purposes and to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, it will be apparent that one or more embodiments can be implemented without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and apparatuses are shown schematically for the purpose of simplifying the drawings.

[0018] In recent years, in order to further improve the performance of cooling systems, there has been a demand to further increase the flow rate of coolant in the reservoir as described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-248753. However, it is known that in the reservoir as described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-248753, if the flow rate of coolant through the reservoir is increased, the coolant flowing into the interior of the reservoir body tends to surge and swirl like waves. Therefore, the coolant is prone to generating bubbles due to air being entrained in the reservoir, making it difficult to achieve the desired level of gas-liquid separation.

[0019] In particular, in recent years, with the increasing demand for miniaturization of liquid storage tanks, the coolant inside the tank body is prone to malfunction.

[0020] One object of this disclosure is to suppress the disturbance of the liquid level inside the body of the liquid storage tank and the generation of air bubbles inside the liquid storage tank.

[0021] The inventors conducted in-depth research and discovered that by causing the coolant flowing out of the inlet pipe to flow into the coolant inside the tank body from a position lower than the surface of the coolant in the vertical direction, and by providing a columnar component inside the tank body and arranging a portion of the columnar component on the extension line of the center line of the coolant flowing out of the inlet pipe, it is possible to suppress the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body, thus completing the technology disclosed herein.

[0022] One aspect of the liquid storage tank disclosed herein includes: a tank body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe for supplying coolant into the tank body; an outlet pipe for discharging coolant from the tank body; and a columnar member erected inside the tank body, wherein the inlet pipe is connected to the tank body on a vertically lower side than the surface of the coolant stored inside the tank body, and, when viewed along the centerline of the inlet pipe, the columnar member extends in a generally vertical direction, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the centerline of the inlet pipe (first aspect).

[0023] In the first embodiment, it is preferred that the reservoir has a plurality of columnar members, including a first columnar member and a second columnar member, the plurality of columnar members being configured such that the flow of coolant flowing from the inlet pipe into the reservoir body is diverted in a generally horizontal direction by the first columnar member, and the diverted coolant flow is further diverted in a generally horizontal direction by the second columnar member (second embodiment). Furthermore, in the first embodiment, it is preferred that the position where the extension of the centerline of the inlet pipe intersects the columnar member is located vertically lower than the surface of the coolant (third embodiment). Furthermore, in the third embodiment, it is preferred that the centerline of the inlet pipe extends in a generally horizontal direction, and the columnar member extends in a generally vertical direction (fourth embodiment).

[0024] Furthermore, in any of the first to fourth embodiments, it is preferable that the columnar member is configured to connect the top and bottom surfaces of the main body of the tank (fifth embodiment). Furthermore, in any of the first to fourth embodiments, it is preferable that the cross-sectional shape of the columnar member at its horizontal plane is a shape convex towards the upstream side of the coolant flow (sixth embodiment). Furthermore, in any of the first to fourth embodiments, it is preferable that the width of the columnar member, when viewed along the centerline of the inflow pipe, is at least 0.5 times and less than 3 times the diameter of the inflow pipe (seventh embodiment).

[0025] Furthermore, another embodiment of the liquid storage tank disclosed herein includes: a tank body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe for supplying coolant into the tank body; an outlet pipe for discharging coolant from the tank body; and a columnar member erected inside the tank body, wherein the inlet pipe extends into the interior of the tank body and opens vertically downward toward the interior space of the tank body at a level lower than the surface of the coolant stored inside the tank body; and, when viewed along the centerline of the inlet pipe in the open portion of the inlet pipe, the columnar member extends in a substantially vertical direction, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the centerline of the inlet pipe in the open portion of the inlet pipe (eighth embodiment).

[0026] According to the first and eighth embodiments of the present disclosure, the liquid storage tank can suppress the generation of bubbles inside the liquid storage tank because it can suppress the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body.

[0027] Furthermore, according to the second to fourth methods, the effects of suppressing surface disturbance and bubble generation are further improved.

[0028] Furthermore, according to the fifth method, the vibration of the columnar component is suppressed. As a result, abnormal sounds generated from the reservoir can be suppressed.

[0029] Furthermore, according to the sixth and seventh methods, the effects of suppressing surface disturbances and bubble generation are further enhanced.

[0030] Furthermore, according to the eighth method, the flexibility of the configuration of the inflow pipe in the storage tank can also be increased.

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, taking the reservoir of a liquid-cooled cooling system installed in an internal combustion engine of an automobile as an example. The technology of the present disclosure is not limited to the individual embodiments shown below, and may also be implemented in modified versions of the following embodiments. The application of the liquid-cooled cooling system is not limited to internal combustion engines; it can be used to cool electrical components such as power components and inverters, as well as electrical components such as electronic circuit boards, or for other purposes.

[0032] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The structure of the liquid storage tank 10 in the first embodiment is shown. Figure 1 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the liquid storage tank 10. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the liquid storage tank 10. Figure 1 The longitudinal section view is passed Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of XX section cut by the vertical plane of line XX. Furthermore, Figure 2 The cross-sectional view is obtained by passing through Figure 1The YY cross-section diagram obtained by cutting the YY line horizontally.

[0033] The reservoir 10 is configured to have a hollow tank body 17 and an inlet pipe 15 and an outlet pipe 16 connected to the tank. The reservoir 10 used in the coolant path of a liquid-cooled cooling system is configured and connected in the coolant path of the liquid-cooled cooling system so that coolant flows from the inlet pipe 15 into the hollow tank body 17 and flows out from the hollow tank body 17 through the outlet pipe 16.

[0034] exist Figure 1 In the longitudinal cross-sectional view, the upper side of the figure represents the upper side in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the lower housing 11 and the upper housing 12 are integrally formed to constitute the liquid storage tank 10. The lower housing 11 and the upper housing 12 are integrally formed to constitute a hollow tank body 17. In this embodiment, the inlet pipe 15 and the outlet pipe 16 are integrally formed with the lower housing 11. In this regard, the inlet pipe 15 and the outlet pipe 16 may also be integrally formed with the tank body 17 by other methods different from integral forming.

[0035] Coolant L is stored in the main body 17. Air is stored in the upper vertical direction of the main body 17.

[0036] The inlet pipe 15 is connected to the tank body 17 on the lower side in the vertical direction than the liquid level S of the coolant stored inside the tank body 17. With this structure, the coolant supplied from the inlet pipe 15 flows directly (i.e., without passing through the air) into the coolant stored in the tank.

[0037] Although not mandatory, in this embodiment, the inflow pipe 15 is provided as a straight pipe on the outside of the box body 17. For example, as in the fourth embodiment described later, the inflow pipe may extend to the inside of the box body.

[0038] The drain pipe 16 is also connected to the tank body 17 on the lower side in the vertical direction than the liquid level S of the coolant stored inside the tank body 17. With this structure, the coolant is effectively discharged from the tank body 17 through the drain pipe 16.

[0039] A columnar member 14 is erected inside the main body 17. In this embodiment, one columnar member 14 is erected so as to extend in a generally vertical direction. Multiple columnar members may also be provided, as shown in the variations described later. Furthermore, the columnar member may be inclined relative to the vertical direction, as in other embodiments described later.

[0040] Viewed along the centerline m of the inlet pipe 15, the columnar member 14 extends in a generally vertical direction. The columnar member 14 does not need to extend strictly in the vertical direction. As long as the columnar member 14 is inclined at approximately 30 degrees or less from the vertical direction, it can be said to extend in a generally vertical direction. Furthermore, if the inlet pipe 15 is a curved or bent pipe, the centerline m of the inlet pipe 15 can be considered as the portion of the pipe near the connection point with the housing body 17 (the portion of the inlet pipe 15 where coolant flows into the housing body 17).

[0041] A portion of a columnar member 14 is disposed on the extension of the centerline m of the inlet pipe 15. With this structure, the jet of coolant flowing from the inlet pipe 15 into the tank body 17 flows in a manner that collides with a portion of the columnar member 14, and flows in a generally horizontal direction, bypassing the columnar member 14. Figure 3 ).

[0042] While not strictly necessary, in this embodiment, the cross-section (the section at the horizontal plane) of the columnar member 14 has a hollow shape that is approximately D-shaped. Furthermore, the columnar member 14 is positioned such that one side of the columnar member 14, which is curved in an arc, faces the side of the inflow pipe 15. As will be described later, the columnar member 14 may also have other shapes.

[0043] While not strictly necessary, it is preferable, as in this embodiment, that the intersection of the extension of the centerline m of the inflow pipe 15 and the columnar member 14 is located vertically lower than the coolant surface S. Alternatively, the intersection of the extension of the centerline m of the inflow pipe 15 and the columnar member 14 may be at substantially the same vertical height as the coolant surface S. More preferably, the intersection of the extension of the centerline m of the inflow pipe 15 and the columnar member 14 is located vertically lower than the point where the inflow pipe 15 connects to the housing body 17.

[0044] Furthermore, although not mandatory, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the centerline m of the inflow pipe 15 extends in a generally horizontal direction and the columnar member 14 extends in a generally vertical direction.

[0045] Furthermore, although not mandatory, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the columnar member 14 is configured to connect the top surface and the bottom surface of the housing body 17. As in this embodiment, it is particularly preferable that the columnar member 14 is formed by dividing it into a component on the lower housing side and a component on the upper housing side, and that the components of these divided columnar members 14 are joined together (preferably welded).

[0046] Furthermore, although not mandatory, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the cross-sectional shape of the columnar member 14 at the horizontal plane is a shape that bulges towards the upstream side of the coolant flow.

[0047] Furthermore, although not strictly necessary, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the width D2 of the columnar member 14, when viewed along the centerline m of the inflow pipe 15, is at least 0.5 times and less than 3 times the diameter d1 of the inflow pipe 15 (the inner diameter of the side opening towards the inside of the housing body 17), that is, 0.5 * d1 ≤ D2 ≤ 3 * d1. Particularly preferred is 1 * d1 ≤ D2 ≤ 1.5 * d1. In this embodiment, D2 = 1.3 * d1. If 0.5 * d1 ≤ D2, the flow diversion effect brought about by the columnar member can be fully utilized. Furthermore, if D2 ≤ 3 * d1, it is possible to suppress the flow of coolant from colliding with the columnar member 14 and flowing upwards in the vertical direction. As a result, it is possible to more effectively suppress the disturbance of the coolant surface.

[0048] As long as the tank body 17, columnar component 14, inlet pipe 15, and outlet pipe 16 of the liquid storage tank 10 can be constituted, there is no particular limitation on how the above-described structure of the liquid storage tank 10 is specifically divided into components (how the liquid storage tank 10 is set as an assembly of constituent components). In this embodiment, the above-described structure of the liquid storage tank 10 is achieved by dividing the liquid storage tank 10 into two shells, a lower shell 11 and an upper shell 12, and combining them. In this regard, the above-described structure of the liquid storage tank 10 can also be achieved by other constituent components. For example, the above-described structure of the liquid storage tank 10 can also be achieved by forming the tank body 17 into two vertically divided components and combining them.

[0049] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, the materials constituting the reservoir 10 and the manufacturing method of the reservoir 10 are not particularly limited. The reservoir 10 can be manufactured using known materials and known manufacturing methods. Typically, the reservoir 10 is formed primarily of thermoplastic resins such as polyamide resin. The materials and reinforcing structures of the reservoir 10 are determined according to the type, temperature, and pressure of the coolant used. In addition, typically, the reservoir 10 can be manufactured by injection molding components corresponding to the lower shell 11 and the upper shell 12, and these components can be integrated by vibration welding or hot plate welding.

[0050] In this case, it is preferable that the inlet pipe 15, the outlet pipe 16, and the columnar component 14 are integrally formed with the lower housing 11 or the upper housing 12, respectively. Alternatively, the inlet pipe 15, the outlet pipe 16, and the columnar component 14 may also be formed as components different from the lower housing 11 or the upper housing 12, and then integrated with the lower housing 11 or the upper housing 12 through subsequent assembly.

[0051] The function and effects of the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment described above will be explained. According to the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment described above, it is possible to suppress the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body 17 and to suppress the generation of bubbles.

[0052] exist Figure 9 The flow of coolant inside the tank body of a reservoir without columnar components is shown as a reference example. Figure 9 The structure of the reference example is the same as that of the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment, except that it does not have the columnar component 14.

[0053] In the reference example's reservoir 99, when coolant flows violently in from the inlet pipe (the flow Q of the incoming coolant is indicated by a hollow arrow), the coolant flows directly into the reservoir body and violently collides with the reservoir wall opposite the inlet pipe. As a result, the coolant also diffuses upwards. Due to this upward flow, the coolant level inside the reservoir body fluctuates violently. This violent fluctuation causes air to be drawn into the coolant. Consequently, bubbles are generated.

[0054] Air bubbles in the coolant reduce its circulation efficiency and the efficiency of heat transfer. Therefore, the formation of air bubbles in the coolant leads to a decrease in the cooling performance of the cooling system.

[0055] In contrast, in the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment described above, the inflow pipe 15 is connected to the tank body 17 on the side lower in the vertical direction than the liquid surface S of the coolant. Furthermore, a columnar member 14 is erected inside the tank body 17. Viewed along the centerline m of the inflow pipe 15, this columnar member 14 extends in a generally vertical direction. Moreover, a portion of the columnar member 14 is arranged on the extension line of the centerline m of the inflow pipe 15. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the agitation of the liquid surface inside the tank body 17. As a result, it is possible to suppress the generation of air bubbles inside the liquid storage tank 10.

[0056] That is, in the storage tank 10 of the first embodiment, the flow Q of the coolant flowing in from the inlet pipe 15 flows directly into the coolant stored in the tank body 17. Furthermore, the coolant flowing in from the inlet pipe 15 flows in a manner that collides with the columnar member 14, and as... Figure 3 As shown, the flow is split horizontally to avoid the columnar component 14. This splitting weakens the strong flow of coolant entering from the inlet pipe 15, which is dispersed by the columnar component 14. As a result, the weakened flow of coolant L collides with the wall of the tank body 17. Therefore, it is possible to suppress… Figure 9 The reference example shows a violent fluctuation of the liquid surface S. Therefore, in the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment, the agitation of the liquid surface inside the tank body 17 can be suppressed. As a result, the generation of bubbles inside the liquid storage tank 10 can be suppressed. Figure 4 ).

[0057] From the viewpoint of better suppressing the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body 17 and better suppressing the generation of air bubbles inside the storage tank, it is possible to use Figure 5 The reservoir 19 shown in the first modified example has such a structure. The reservoir 19 has a plurality of columnar components 14a, 14b, 14b. Preferably, these plurality of columnar components 14a, 14b, 14b are configured such that the flow of coolant flowing from the inlet pipe 15 into the reservoir body 17 is split into two streams in a generally horizontal direction by the first columnar component 14a, and the flow of the split coolant is further split into two streams in a generally horizontal direction by the second columnar component 14b. Two, three, or four or more columnar components can be provided. In addition, the plurality of columnar components can be configured to split the flow of coolant into two streams, or to split the flow of coolant into three or more streams.

[0058] According to the structure of the reservoir 19 in the first modified example, the flow of coolant is further diffused and diverted to become a stable flow. Therefore, the effect of suppressing the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body 17 and the effect of suppressing the generation of air bubbles inside the reservoir 19 are further improved. In addition, when multiple columnar components are provided, it is preferable to arrange the multiple columnar components in a manner similar to the arrangement of bowling pins relative to the flow direction of coolant from the inlet pipe 15.

[0059] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of better suppressing the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body 17 and better suppressing the generation of air bubbles inside the reservoir, it is preferable that the extension of the centerline m of the inflow pipe 15 intersects the columnar member 14 at a position that is lower in the vertical direction than the liquid surface S of the coolant. In this case, it is possible to prevent the coolant flowing in from the inflow pipe 15 from violently blowing upwards from the liquid surface of the coolant. Therefore, it is possible to better suppress the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body.

[0060] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of further suppressing the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body 17 and thus better suppressing the generation of air bubbles inside the reservoir, it is preferable that the centerline m of the inlet pipe 15 extends in a generally horizontal direction, and the columnar member 14 extends in a generally vertical direction. With this structure, the flow of coolant flowing in from the inlet pipe 15 is well diverted in a generally horizontal direction by the columnar member 14, making it difficult for it to flow in the upward or downward direction. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively suppress the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body.

[0061] Furthermore, when the columnar member 14 is configured to connect the top and bottom surfaces of the tank body 17, as in the first embodiment described above, the vibration of the columnar member 14 is suppressed, thus also suppressing abnormal sounds generated from the tank 10. The coolant is jetted and collides with the columnar member 14. Therefore, when the columnar member 14 is erected in a cantilever beam shape, it is prone to vibration, potentially generating abnormal sounds from the tank 10. When the columnar member 14 is configured as a double-support beam connecting the top and bottom surfaces of the tank body 17, the rigidity of the portion of the columnar member 14 that is collided with by the flow of coolant is increased. As a result, the vibration of the columnar member 14 can be suppressed, thus suppressing abnormal sounds generated from the tank 10.

[0062] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made to implement it. Other embodiments of this disclosure are described below. In the following description, the focus is on the parts that differ from the embodiments described above, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts, and detailed descriptions of them are omitted. Furthermore, these embodiments can be implemented by combining parts of each other or by replacing parts of each other.

[0063] Figure 6 The storage tank 20 represents the second embodiment. Figure 6 It is the same as the first embodiment. Figure 1 The corresponding longitudinal cross-sectional view of the liquid storage tank 20. Compared with the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment, the direction of the inflow pipe 25 and the shape of the columnar component 24 of the liquid storage tank 20 of the second embodiment are different. The other structures in the liquid storage tank 20 are the same as those in the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment.

[0064] In the liquid storage tank 20 of the second embodiment, the inlet pipe 25 is inclined downwards in the vertical direction as it moves from the outside to the inside of the tank body 27. Slightly tilting the inlet pipe 25 downwards can sometimes better suppress disturbances in the liquid level inside the tank body 27. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the outlet pipe 26 is also arranged from the bottom surface of the tank body 27 downwards. However, the position and direction of the outlet pipe 26 can be changed.

[0065] Furthermore, in the liquid storage tank 20 of the second embodiment, the columnar component 24 has Figure 7A The mountain-shaped cross-section is shown. Even such a columnar component 24, like the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment, is able to suppress the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body 27 and suppress the generation of bubbles inside the liquid storage tank 20.

[0066] Figures 7A to 7F Examples illustrating the cross-sectional shape of the columnar member at the horizontal plane in other embodiments. Additionally, in Figures 7A to 7FIn the diagram, the hollow arrow indicates the direction of coolant flow from the inlet pipe 25.

[0067] The columnar component 24 can also be... Figure 7A The columnar member 24 has a mountain-shaped cross-section (V-shaped cross-section) as shown. Alternatively, the columnar member may also have... Figure 7B The columnar component 24b shown has a circular cross-section (hollow cylindrical cross-section). Alternatively, the columnar component can be a solid component, such as a columnar component with a solid cylindrical cross-section. Furthermore, the columnar component can also be a prism-shaped component, an elliptical columnar component, a conical component, or a pyramidal component.

[0068] In addition, the columnar component can be having Figure 7C The columnar component 24c shown has a C-shaped (or U-shaped) cross-section. Furthermore, the columnar component may have... Figure 7D The columnar member 24d shown has a cross-shaped cross-section (forming a stepped cross-section on the upstream side). Furthermore, the columnar member can have... Figure 7E The columnar member 24e shown is a flat plate-shaped cross-section opposite to the flow. Furthermore, the columnar member may have... Figure 7F The columnar component 24f shown has a mountain-shaped cross-section with a slit in the central part.

[0069] like Figure 2 , Figure 5 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 7C and Figure 7D As shown, the preferred cross-sectional shape of the columnar member at its horizontal plane is a shape that bulges upstream of the coolant flow. This bulging shape allows the coolant jet from the inlet pipe to be effectively diverted and diffused horizontally. Furthermore, it also prevents the coolant jet from the inlet pipe from colliding with the columnar member and bouncing vertically upwards. As a result, the effect of suppressing coolant surface disturbances is improved.

[0070] Furthermore, from the perspective of suppressing bubble breakage by making the coolant flow more smoothly, such as Figure 7A and Figure 7C As shown, it is more preferable to apply an R-shape (a rounded corner on the outer peripheral surface) to the corner of the columnar member facing the flow of coolant. For example, it is preferable to apply an R-shape to the corner of the upstream portion of the columnar member and / or to the two ends of the columnar member. Figures 7A-7CAn radius (R) is applied to the upper and lower ends of the columnar component. When an R is applied to these parts (which are rounded), even if the coolant flow is separated due to the collision of the coolant jet with the columnar component, vortices around the columnar component can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the formation of small bubbles in the coolant that are difficult to separate due to vortices.

[0071] In addition, such as Figure 2 , Figure 5 , Figure 7A , Figure 7C and Figure 7F As shown, preferably, in the columnar component, the cross-sectional shape at the horizontal plane of the columnar component is formed such that the width of the columnar component on the upstream side of the coolant flow (the width of the columnar component when viewed along the centerline of the inflow pipe) is smaller than the width of the columnar component on the downstream side of the coolant flow. Furthermore, it is particularly preferable that the cross-sectional shape at the horizontal plane of the columnar component is such that the width of the columnar component further increases towards the downstream side. When the columnar component has such a cross-sectional shape, the coolant diversion and diffusion effect brought about by the columnar component is more significant. Therefore, the effect of suppressing coolant surface disturbance can be improved.

[0072] like Figure 7C , Figure 7D and Figure 7E As shown, the columnar component can also have a surface that is substantially orthogonal to the jet of coolant from the inlet pipe. However, such a surface also becomes the main reason for the jet to bounce vertically upward, causing the coolant surface to fluctuate. Therefore, it is preferable to minimize the width of such a surface as much as possible.

[0073] In addition, such as Figure 7F As shown, when the columnar component is a columnar component 24f with a slit in the center, the coolant jet from the inlet pipe can be substantially split and diffused in three directions by the columnar component 24f. Therefore, the effect of coolant splitting and diffusion brought about by the columnar component is more significant. Therefore, the effect of suppressing coolant surface disturbance can be improved. The size of the slit is adjusted to a fineness that appropriately weakens the jet passing through the slit.

[0074] Figure 8 The storage tank 30 represents the third embodiment. Figure 8 It is the same as the first embodiment. Figure 1 The corresponding longitudinal cross-sectional view of the liquid storage tank 30. In the liquid storage tank 30 of the third embodiment, compared with the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment, the shape of the tank body 37, the shape and arrangement of the columnar member 24c, and the position of the discharge pipe 36 are different. The other structures in the liquid storage tank 30 are the same as those in the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment.

[0075] exist Figure 1In the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment shown, the tank body 17 is rectangular in shape. On the other hand, in the liquid storage tank 30 of the third embodiment, the tank body 37 is spherical in shape. In addition, the shape of the tank body 37 is not particularly limited, and can be other shapes such as cylindrical, elliptical, or elliptical.

[0076] Furthermore, in the liquid storage tank 30 of the third embodiment, the columnar component 24c has Figure 7C The cross-section is C-shaped (arc-shaped). The columnar member 24c is configured such that its cross-section protrudes towards the upstream side of the coolant flow. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the columnar member 24c is erected in the form of a cantilever beam.

[0077] and Figure 1 Similarly, in the reservoir 10 of the first embodiment shown, in the reservoir 30 of the third embodiment, when viewed along the centerline m of the inflow pipe 35, the columnar member 24c also extends in a generally vertical direction. Therefore, the jet of coolant from the inflow pipe is substantially diverted and diffused in a generally horizontal direction. Consequently, the effect of suppressing coolant surface disturbance is significant.

[0078] Furthermore, in the storage tank 30 of the third embodiment, such as Figure 8 As shown, the columnar member 24c is arranged such that, when viewed from a direction orthogonal to both the centerline m of the inflow pipe 35 and the vertical direction, the columnar member 24c is inclined relative to the centerline m of the inflow pipe 35. More specifically, the columnar member 24c is inclined in such a way that the distance between the inflow pipe 35 and the columnar member 24c, measured in the direction along the centerline m of the inflow pipe 35, gradually shortens away from the base of the lower side of the columnar member 24c (the joint between the columnar member 24c and the box body 37).

[0079] If the columnar component 24c is tilted in this way, when the coolant jet collides with the columnar component 24c, the jet tends to be slightly downward in the vertical direction. Therefore, the effect of suppressing the disturbance of the coolant surface is more significant.

[0080] Figure 10 The storage tank 40 represents the fourth embodiment. Figure 10 It is the same as the first embodiment. Figure 1 The corresponding longitudinal cross-sectional view of the liquid storage tank 40. In the liquid storage tank 40 of the fourth embodiment, the position and shape of the inflow pipes (outer pipe 451 and inner pipe 452) and the shape of the columnar member 44 are different from those of the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment. The position of the discharge pipe 46 and other structures in the liquid storage tank 40 are the same as those of the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment.

[0081] In the liquid storage tank 40 of the fourth embodiment, the inflow pipe extends into the interior of the tank body 47. That is, in this embodiment, the inflow pipe has an outer pipe 451 disposed on the outside of the tank body 47 and an inner pipe (extension) 452 disposed on the inside of the tank body 47. The outer pipe 451 and the inner pipe 452 are connected to each other to form a pipeline. In addition, the inner pipe 452 may also share a portion of the wall surface with the tank body 17.

[0082] The extended portion of the inflow pipe, namely the internal pipe 452, opens vertically downwards into the interior space of the tank body 47 compared to the surface S of the coolant stored inside the tank body 47. With this structure, the coolant flowing in from the inflow pipe flows directly (i.e., without passing through air) into the coolant stored in the tank. Therefore, the effect of suppressing coolant surface disturbance becomes reliable. As in this embodiment, the internal pipe 452 may also have a portion extending in a generally vertical direction.

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when viewed along the centerline m of the inflow pipe (internal pipe 452) in the portion open towards the interior space of the casing, the columnar member 44 extends in a generally vertical direction. Moreover, a portion of the columnar member 44 is disposed on the extension line of the centerline m of the inflow pipe in the open portion of the inflow pipe (internal pipe 452). That is, the internal pipe 452 is configured such that the flow of coolant through the pipe is directed toward the columnar member 44. While not strictly necessary, in this embodiment, it is preferable that the centerline m of the inflow pipe (internal pipe 452) in the portion open towards the interior of the casing body extends in a generally horizontal direction. In this case, the coolant flowing from the inflow pipe (internal pipe 452) into the interior of the casing body flows toward the columnar member 44 in a generally horizontal direction.

[0084] In the storage tank 40 of the fourth embodiment, the inflow pipe extends into the interior of the tank body 47. Furthermore, the inflow pipe opens into the interior space of the tank body 47 at a point vertically lower than the surface S of the coolant stored inside the tank body 47. In this case, unlike the first to third embodiments, it is not necessary for the inflow pipe to be connected to the tank body 47 at a point vertically lower than the surface S of the coolant stored inside the tank body 47. The reason for this is that, in the fourth embodiment, the internal pipe 452 functions as an extension of the external pipe 451; that is, the inflow pipe having the internal pipe 452 functions in the same way as the inflow pipe connected to the tank body 47 at a point lower than the surface S of the coolant.

[0085] and Figure 1 Similarly, in the reservoir 10 of the first embodiment shown, in the reservoir 40 of the fourth embodiment, the coolant flows along the columnar member 44. Figure 10Observing from the direction of the centerline m, the columnar component 44 also extends in a generally vertical direction. Therefore, the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe collides with the columnar component 44. As a result, the jet of coolant from the inlet pipe is substantially split and diffused in a generally horizontal direction. Thus, the effect of suppressing the disturbance of the coolant surface is achieved.

[0086] Furthermore, in the reservoir 40 of the fourth embodiment, the inflow pipe extends into the interior of the reservoir. This increases the flexibility in the arrangement of the portion of the inflow pipe located outside the reservoir body 47 (outer pipe 451) and suppresses fluctuations in the coolant level. In other words, according to the reservoir 40 of the fourth embodiment, the inflow pipe (outer pipe 451) can be positioned vertically higher than the coolant level S. Therefore, the layout flexibility of the reservoir is increased.

[0087] The reservoir of the present disclosure may also have other structures. For example, a removable cover may be provided on the reservoir. Coolant can be filled into the reservoir or coolant path through such a cover. Furthermore, a pressure relief valve may be provided on the cover. Additionally, as needed, a support strip or boss component for mounting the reservoir to a vehicle body or similar component may be integrated into the reservoir. Furthermore, depending on the required pressure resistance, a reinforcing structure such as ribs may be provided on the reservoir.

[0088] Industrial utilization potential

[0089] The liquid reservoir of this disclosure can be used in the coolant path of a cooling system. The liquid reservoir of this disclosure can suppress the generation of air bubbles in the coolant, and therefore has high industrial applicability.

[0090] Furthermore, the liquid storage tank in the embodiments of this disclosure may be a first liquid storage tank and a second liquid storage tank as described below.

[0091] The first reservoir is a reservoir installed in the coolant path of a liquid-cooled cooling system, comprising: a reservoir body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe for supplying coolant into the reservoir body; an outlet pipe for discharging coolant from the reservoir body; and a columnar member erected inside the reservoir body. The inlet pipe is connected to the reservoir body on a lower side in the vertical direction than the surface of the coolant stored inside the reservoir body. When viewed along the centerline of the inlet pipe, the columnar member extends in a generally vertical direction, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the centerline of the inlet pipe.

[0092] The second reservoir is a reservoir installed in the coolant path of a liquid-cooled cooling system, comprising: a reservoir body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe for supplying coolant into the reservoir body; an outlet pipe for discharging coolant from the reservoir body; and a columnar member erected inside the reservoir body. The inlet pipe extends into the interior of the reservoir body and opens vertically downward toward the interior space of the reservoir body at a level lower than the surface of the coolant stored inside the reservoir body. When viewed along the centerline of the inlet pipe in the open portion of the inlet pipe, the columnar member extends in a substantially vertical direction, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the centerline of the inlet pipe in the open portion of the inlet pipe.

[0093] The detailed description has been given for illustrative and explanatory purposes. Many variations and modifications are possible in accordance with the teachings above. The detailed description is not without omissions or intended to limit the subject matter described herein. Although the subject matter has been described in words with particular structural features and / or methodological processes, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or processes described. Rather, the specific features and processes described are illustrated as examples of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A liquid storage tank, characterized in that, have: The main body of the tank stores coolant; An inlet pipe is used to deliver coolant into the tank body; A drain pipe for discharging coolant from the tank body; and The columnar component is erected inside the main body of the box. The inflow pipe is connected to the tank body on the lower side in the vertical direction than the surface of the coolant stored inside the tank body, and... Viewed along the centerline of the inflow pipe, the columnar component extends in a generally vertical direction. A portion of the columnar component is disposed on the extension line of the centerline of the inflow pipe. The cross-sectional shape of the columnar component at its horizontal plane is convex towards the upstream side of the coolant flow, and... The cross-sectional shape is either a D-shaped cross-section or a circular cross-section, or the columnar component is an elliptical columnar component, a conical component, or a cylindrical component.

2. The liquid storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid storage tank has a plurality of columnar components, including a first columnar component and a second columnar component. The plurality of columnar components are configured such that the flow of coolant flowing from the inlet pipe into the tank body is diverted in a generally horizontal direction by the first columnar component, and the diverted coolant flow is further diverted in a generally horizontal direction by the second columnar component.

3. The liquid storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The point where the extension of the centerline of the inflow pipe intersects the columnar component is located vertically lower than the surface of the coolant.

4. The liquid storage tank according to claim 3, characterized in that, The centerline of the inflow pipe extends in a generally horizontal direction, and, The columnar component extends in a generally vertical direction.

5. The liquid storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The columnar component is configured to connect the top and bottom surfaces of the box body.

6. The liquid storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, When viewed along the centerline of the inflow pipe, the width of the columnar component is more than 0.5 times and less than 3 times the diameter of the inflow pipe.

7. A liquid storage tank, characterized in that, have: The main body of the tank stores coolant; An inlet pipe is used to deliver coolant into the tank body; A drain pipe for discharging coolant from the tank body; and The columnar component is erected inside the main body of the box. The inflow pipe extends into the interior of the tank body and opens vertically downwards into the interior space of the tank body at a level lower than the surface of the coolant stored inside the tank body. Viewed along the centerline of the inflow pipe in the open portion of the inflow pipe, the columnar member extends in a generally vertical direction. A portion of the columnar component is disposed on the extension line of the centerline of the inflow pipe in the open portion of the inflow pipe. The cross-sectional shape of the columnar component at its horizontal plane is convex towards the upstream side of the coolant flow, and... The cross-sectional shape is either a D-shaped cross-section or a circular cross-section, or the columnar component is an elliptical columnar component, a conical component, or a cylindrical component.

Images