Liquid storage box

Abstract

The present invention provides a coolant reservoir comprising: a reservoir body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe configured to deliver coolant into the reservoir body; an outlet pipe configured to discharge coolant from the reservoir body; a columnar member erected inside the reservoir body; and a guide member disposed inside the reservoir body. The inlet pipe is connected to the reservoir body on a side vertically lower than the surface of the coolant stored inside the reservoir body. The guide member is configured to guide the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe into the reservoir body toward the columnar member and toward a substantially horizontal direction. The columnar member extends in a substantially vertical direction when viewed along the flow of coolant toward the columnar member, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the flow of coolant toward the columnar member.

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, Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-168813 filed with the Japan Patent Office on October 6, 2020, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-169517 filed with the Japan Patent Office on October 7, 2020, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated 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 liquid storage tank of this disclosure includes: a tank body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe configured to deliver coolant into the tank body; an outlet pipe configured to discharge coolant from the tank body; a columnar member erected inside the tank body; and a guide member disposed inside the tank body. The inlet pipe is connected to the tank body on a side lower in the vertical direction than the surface of the coolant stored inside the tank body. The guide member is configured to guide the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe into the tank body toward the columnar member and toward a substantially horizontal direction. The columnar member extends in a substantially vertical direction when viewed along the flow of coolant toward the columnar member, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the flow of coolant toward the columnar member. 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 These are longitudinal and cross-sectional views 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 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 coolant reservoirs, the coolant inside the reservoir body is more prone to turbulence. Furthermore, due to space constraints, it is sometimes impossible to position the inlet and outlet pipes of the reservoir in a location that optimizes the cooling flow within the reservoir. One object of this disclosure is to suppress turbulence of the liquid surface inside the reservoir body and the generation of air bubbles within the reservoir. Another object of this disclosure is to improve coolant flow within the reservoir and increase the flexibility in configuring the inlet pipes of the reservoir.

[0020] The inventors conducted in-depth research and discovered that when coolant flows directly from the inlet pipe into the coolant stored inside the tank body, a guiding component installed within the tank body can direct the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe toward the columnar component and in a generally horizontal direction. Furthermore, if a portion of the columnar component is positioned along the extension of the coolant flow line, disturbances in the liquid level inside the tank body can be suppressed, thereby increasing the flexibility in the configuration of the inlet pipe. Based on this insight, the liquid storage tank of this disclosure was completed.

[0021] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a reservoir comprising: a reservoir body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe configured to deliver coolant into the reservoir body; an outlet pipe configured to discharge coolant from the reservoir body; a columnar member erected inside the reservoir body; and a guide member disposed inside the reservoir body. The inlet pipe is connected to the reservoir body on a side vertically lower than the surface of the coolant stored inside the reservoir body. The guide member is configured to guide the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe into the reservoir body toward the columnar member and toward a substantially horizontal direction. The columnar member extends in a substantially vertical direction when viewed along the flow of coolant toward the columnar member, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the flow of coolant toward the columnar member (first embodiment).

[0022] In the first embodiment, it is preferable 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 from the guide member toward the columnar members is diverted in a generally horizontal direction through the first columnar member, and the diverted flow of coolant is further diverted in a generally horizontal direction through the second columnar member (second embodiment). Furthermore, in the first embodiment, it is preferable that the position where the extension line of the coolant flow toward the columnar member intersects the columnar member is located vertically lower than the surface of the coolant (third embodiment). Furthermore, in the first embodiment, it is preferable that the guide member has a curved guide surface, and the central axis of the inflow pipe forms an angle of 30 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less with respect to the horizontal plane (fourth embodiment).

[0023] 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 that bulges upstream toward the flow of the coolant (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 flow of coolant toward the columnar member, is 0.5 times or more and 3 times or less the diameter of the inflow pipe (seventh embodiment).

[0024] Furthermore, another embodiment of the liquid storage tank disclosed herein includes: a tank body for storing coolant; an inflow pipe configured to deliver coolant into the tank body; an outlet pipe configured to discharge coolant from the tank body; a columnar member erected inside the tank body; and a guide member disposed inside the tank body, forming a conduit through the guide member and the wall of the tank body. One end of the conduit is connected to the inflow pipe, and the other end opens towards the interior space of the tank body at a vertically lower side than the surface of the coolant stored inside the tank body. The conduit is configured to guide the flow of coolant from the inflow pipe into the interior of the tank body towards the columnar member and in a substantially horizontal direction. The columnar member extends in a substantially vertical direction when viewed along the flow of coolant toward the columnar member, and a portion of the columnar member is disposed on the extension line of the flow of coolant toward the columnar member (eighth embodiment).

[0025] According to the first and eighth embodiments of the present disclosure, the liquid storage tank can suppress the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body, thereby suppressing the generation of air bubbles inside the liquid storage tank. Furthermore, since a guiding member is provided, the degree of freedom in the position and angle of the inflow pipe can be increased. In particular, according to the eighth embodiment, the degree of freedom in the position and angle of the inflow pipe is significantly improved.

[0026] Furthermore, according to the second to fourth methods, the effects of suppressing liquid surface disturbance and bubble generation are further improved. In addition, according to the fourth method, the freedom of setting the position and angle of the inflow pipe is particularly improved. According to the fifth method, vibration of the columnar component can be suppressed. As a result, noise generated from the storage tank can be suppressed. Furthermore, according to the sixth and seventh methods, the effects of suppressing liquid surface disturbance and bubble generation are further improved.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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 1 The YY cross-sectional view is obtained by cutting the YY line horizontally. 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.

[0029] exist Figure 1In 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.

[0030] Coolant L is stored in the tank body 17. Air is stored in the upper vertical direction of the tank body 17. An inlet pipe 15 is connected to the tank body 17 on the lower vertical side 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] A columnar member 14 is erected inside the main body 17. In this embodiment, one columnar member 14 is erected and extends in a generally vertical direction. Multiple columnar members may also be erected, as in the variations described later. Furthermore, the columnar member may be inclined relative to the vertical direction.

[0033] A guide member 13 is provided inside the main body 17. In this embodiment, a plate-shaped guide member 13 with a curved guide surface is provided. Typically, the guide member is provided such that it is entirely submerged in coolant. The guide member 13 guides the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe 15 into the main body of the main body toward the columnar member 14 and toward a generally horizontal direction. That is, the jet of coolant flowing from the inlet pipe 15 flows along the guide surface of the guide member 13. At this time, the direction of flow changes. Therefore, the coolant flows toward the columnar member 14 approximately horizontally.

[0034] Observing the flow of coolant from guide member 13 toward columnar member 14, columnar member 14 extends in a generally vertical direction. Columnar member 14 does not need to extend strictly in a vertical direction. It can be said to extend in a generally vertical direction as long as columnar member 14 is inclined within a range of about 30 degrees or less from the vertical direction.

[0035] Furthermore, a portion of the columnar member 14 is positioned on the extension line n of the coolant flow toward the columnar member 14. With this structure, the jet of coolant, guided by the guide member 13 in a generally horizontal direction toward the columnar member, flows in a manner that collides with a portion of the columnar member 14, and is diverted in a generally horizontal direction to avoid the columnar member 14. Figure 3 ).

[0036] 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 generally D-shaped. Furthermore, the columnar member 14 is arranged such that one side of its curved side faces the guide member 13. As will be described later, the columnar member 14 may also be in other forms.

[0037] While not strictly necessary, as in this embodiment, the point where the extension line n of the coolant flow toward the columnar member 14 intersects with the columnar member 14 is preferably located vertically lower than the coolant surface S. Alternatively, the point where the extension line n of the coolant flow toward the columnar member 14 intersects with the columnar member 14 may be at substantially the same height vertically as the coolant surface S. More preferably, the point where the extension line n of the coolant flow toward the columnar member 14 intersects with the columnar member 14 is located vertically lower than the point where the inlet pipe 15 connects to the tank body 17.

[0038] Furthermore, although not mandatory, it is preferable that the coolant flows substantially horizontally toward the columnar member 14, as in this embodiment, and that the columnar member 14 extends in a generally vertical direction.

[0039] 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).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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 flow of coolant toward the columnar member 14, is at least 0.5 times and less than 3 times the diameter (inner diameter) d1 of the inflow pipe 15, 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 by the columnar member can be fully utilized. Furthermore, if D2 ≤ 3 * d1, the flow of coolant colliding with the columnar member 14 and flowing upwards in the vertical direction can be suppressed. As a result, the disturbance of the coolant surface can be suppressed more effectively.

[0042] As long as the tank body 17, guide member 13, columnar member 14, inflow pipe 15, and discharge 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 constituent components that divide the tank body 17 into two vertical planes and combining them.

[0043] 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. Furthermore, typically, the reservoir 10 can be manufactured by injection molding components equivalent to the lower housing 11 and the upper housing 12, and by integrating these components together using vibration welding or hot plate welding. In this case, it is preferable that the inlet pipe 15, the outlet pipe 16, the guide member 13, and the columnar member 14 are integrally formed with the lower housing 11 or the upper housing 12, respectively. Alternatively, the inlet pipe 15, the outlet pipe 16, the guide member 13, and the columnar member 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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 reference example has the same structure as the storage tank 10 of the first embodiment, except that it lacks the guide member 13 and the column member 14 and the configuration of the inflow pipe is different.

[0046] 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 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.

[0047] In particular, when the coolant flows into the tank from the inlet pipe in a vertically upward direction due to constraints such as the surrounding layout, the coolant level inside the tank body fluctuates violently. As a result, air bubbles are generated. Therefore, in a reservoir like the reference example, the arrangement of the inlet pipe is subject to many constraints.

[0048] Air bubbles in the coolant can reduce its circulation efficiency or the efficiency of heat transfer. As a result, the cooling performance of the cooling system is reduced.

[0049] In the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment described above, the inflow pipe 15 is connected to the tank body at a lower position in the vertical direction than the liquid surface S of the coolant. Furthermore, a guide member and a columnar member are erected inside the tank body. Therefore, the coolant flowing into the tank body from the inflow pipe is guided towards the columnar member 14 and in a generally horizontal direction by the guide member 13 provided inside the tank body. Moreover, when viewed along the flow of coolant towards the columnar member 14, the columnar member 14 extends in a generally vertical direction. Furthermore, a portion of the columnar member 14 is positioned on the extension line n of the coolant flow towards the columnar member, thus suppressing agitation of the liquid surface inside the tank body and thereby suppressing the generation of air bubbles inside the liquid storage tank.

[0050] That is, in the reservoir 10 of the first embodiment, the coolant flowing in from the inlet pipe flows directly into the stored coolant without passing through the air. Simultaneously, the coolant flowing in from the inlet pipe 15 is guided by the guide member 13 and flows approximately horizontally toward the columnar member 14. Then, the coolant flows in a manner that collides with the columnar member 14, and, as... Figure 3As shown, the coolant flow is diverted in a generally horizontal direction to avoid the columnar component 14. This diversion weakens the strong momentum of the coolant flow from the inlet pipe 15 by dispersing it with the columnar component 14. As a result, the weakened flow of coolant L collides with the wall of the tank body 17. Therefore, as... Figure 9 As shown in the reference example, it is possible to suppress violent fluctuations in the liquid surface S. Therefore, in the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment, it is possible to suppress disturbances in the liquid surface inside the tank body 17. As a result, it is possible to suppress the generation of bubbles inside the liquid storage tank 10. Figure 4 ).

[0051] Furthermore, the configuration of the inflow pipe is usually constrained by the surrounding layout. Therefore, it is sometimes difficult to arrange the columnar member in a way that smoothly diverts the flow from the inflow pipe. In the reservoir 10 of the first embodiment, the guide member 13 can guide the jet of coolant flowing from the inflow pipe to flow in a generally horizontal direction toward the columnar member. Therefore, by adjusting the position, shape, and angle of the guide member, the flow of coolant inside the tank can be smoothly controlled even if constrained by the layout of the inflow pipe, and the generation of air bubbles can be suppressed. Therefore, the degree of freedom in the layout of the inflow pipe is increased.

[0052] The specific form of the guide member 13 is not particularly limited as long as it has a guide surface that directs the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe 15 toward the columnar member 14 and in a generally horizontal direction. The guide member can be plate-shaped, or in particular, rib-shaped, protruding from the housing body. Alternatively, the guide member can be block-shaped. Or, as in the second embodiment described later, it can be part of the peripheral wall of the deformed housing body 17.

[0053] Furthermore, in the guide member 13, the shape of the guide surface for guiding the coolant can also be planar. Preferably, the shape is a curved guide surface. As a preferred example, a curved plate-shaped guide member can be given. In addition, the guide member can also be provided as a groove or a tube to prevent the coolant jet from spreading upward in the vertical direction. An example of providing a tubular guide member will be described later as a fourth embodiment.

[0054] 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 storage tank, it is also possible to use... Figure 5The reservoir 19 shown in the first modified example has a structure similar to that of the liquid storage tank 19. The liquid storage tank 19 has a plurality of columnar members 14a, 14b, 14b. Preferably, these plurality of columnar members 14a, 14b, 14b are configured such that the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe 15 into the tank body 17 is bent toward the columnar members 14 by the guide member 13, split into two streams in a generally horizontal direction by the first columnar member 14a, and the flow of the split coolant is further split into two streams in a generally horizontal direction by the second columnar member 14b. Two, three, or more columnar members can be provided. Furthermore, the flow splitting based on the columnar members can be a splitting into two flows or a splitting into three or more flows.

[0055] 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 members are provided, it is preferable to arrange the multiple columnar members in a manner similar to the arrangement of bowling pins, relative to the flow direction of coolant from the guide member 13 toward the columnar members 14.

[0056] 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 position where the extension line of the coolant flow toward the columnar member intersects the columnar member 14 is located vertically lower than the coolant surface S. In this case, it is possible to prevent the coolant flow toward the columnar member from violently blowing upwards from the coolant surface. Therefore, it is possible to better suppress the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body.

[0057] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of further suppressing the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body and suppressing the generation of air bubbles inside the reservoir, it is preferable that the coolant flowing toward the columnar member is substantially horizontal, and that the columnar member 14 extends in a generally vertical direction. With this structure, the flow of coolant toward the columnar member is reliably diverted in a generally horizontal direction by the columnar member 14. Therefore, since the coolant is difficult to flow vertically, disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body can be suppressed.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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 storage tank 20 (above figure), and the view of the first embodiment. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the corresponding reservoir 20 (see below). In the reservoir 20 of the second embodiment, the position and direction of the inflow pipe 25, the shape of the guide member 23, and the shape of the columnar member 24 are different from those of the reservoir 10 of the first embodiment. Other structures are generally the same as those of the reservoir 10 of the first embodiment.

[0061] In the liquid storage tank 20 of the second embodiment, the inflow pipe 25 is provided on the bottom surface of the tank body 27 in a generally vertical direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, the discharge pipe 26 is provided from the bottom surface of the tank downwards. However, the position and direction of the discharge pipe can be changed.

[0062] Furthermore, in the liquid storage tank 20 of the second embodiment, a portion of the peripheral wall of the tank body 27 forms a guide member. That is, the peripheral wall of the tank body 27 is formed in a curved cylindrical shape, so that the direction of the coolant flowing from the inlet in the vertical direction is changed by approximately 90 degrees, flowing towards the columnar member 24 in a generally horizontal direction. This curved portion functions as a guide member 23. That is, the guide member 23 has a curved guide surface.

[0063] Furthermore, in the liquid storage tank 20 of the second embodiment, the columnar component 24 is Figure 7A The columnar member with a mountain-shaped cross-section is shown. Furthermore, in the liquid storage tank of the second embodiment, the columnar member 24 is configured as a cantilever beam, protruding from the top surface of the tank body toward the bottom surface of the tank.

[0064] Even the liquid storage tank 20 of the second embodiment, like the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment, can divert and diffuse the flow of cooling water in a generally horizontal direction through the guide member 23 and the columnar member 24. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the disturbance of the liquid surface inside the tank body and to suppress the generation of air bubbles inside the liquid storage tank.

[0065] Furthermore, as with the reservoir 20 of the second embodiment, the central axis of the inflow pipe 25 can also be at an angle of 30 degrees or more but less than 90 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. In this case, the coolant can be guided by the guide member 23 in a manner that allows the coolant to flow in a generally horizontal direction and toward the columnar member 24. Therefore, the generation of air bubbles inside the reservoir can be suppressed. Thus, even when the central axis of the inflow pipe 25 is at an angle of 30 degrees or more but less than 90 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, the generation of air bubbles can be suppressed. Therefore, the degree of freedom in the arrangement of the inflow pipe, etc., is particularly improved.

[0066] Figures 7B to 7F Examples illustrating the cross-sectional shape of the columnar member at the horizontal plane in other embodiments. Additionally, in Figures 7A to 7F In the diagram, the hollow arrow indicates the direction of coolant flow toward the columnar component. The columnar component 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.

[0067] In addition, columnar components can be those with 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.

[0068] like Figure 2 , Figure 5 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 7C and Figure 7D As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the preferred columnar component at its horizontal plane is a shape that bulges upstream toward the flow of coolant. By making the cross-sectional shape of the columnar component at its horizontal plane bulge upstream toward the flow of coolant, the jet of coolant from the inlet pipe can be effectively diverted and diffused horizontally. Furthermore, it can also prevent the jet of coolant from the guide component from colliding with the columnar component and bouncing vertically upwards. As a result, the effect of suppressing coolant surface disturbance can be improved.

[0069] In addition, 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-7C An 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.

[0070] 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 towards the columnar component 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.

[0071] like Figure 7C , Figure 7D and Figure 7E As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the horizontal plane of the columnar component can also have a surface that is substantially orthogonal to the jet of coolant toward the columnar component. However, such a surface also becomes the main reason for the jet to bounce vertically upward, causing the surface of the coolant to fluctuate. Therefore, it is preferable to minimize the width of such a surface as much as possible.

[0072] In addition, such as Figure 7FAs shown, when the columnar component is a columnar component 24f with a slit in the center, the coolant jet directed toward the columnar component can be substantially split and diffused in three directions through the columnar component 24f. Therefore, the effect of coolant splitting and diffusion brought about by the columnar component is more significant. Thus, 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.

[0073] Figure 8 The storage tank 30 represents the third embodiment. Figure 8 It is the same as the first embodiment. Figure 2 The corresponding cross-sectional view. 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 of the guide member 33, and the shape and arrangement of the columnar member 24c are different, but the other structures in the liquid storage tank 30, such as the position of the discharge pipe 36, are the same as those in the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment.

[0074] exist Figure 1 In 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.

[0075] Furthermore, in the reservoir 30 of the third embodiment, the guide member 33 is a flat plate extending in a generally vertical direction. Thus, the guide member can also be a guide member having a non-bent guide surface. That is, the guide member 33 only needs to be configured such that the jet of coolant flowing in from the inlet pipe 35 flows toward the columnar member in a generally horizontal direction.

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

[0077] and Figure 1 Similar to the reservoir 10 of the first embodiment, in the reservoir 30 of the third embodiment, when observing the coolant flow towards the columnar member, the columnar member 24c extends in a generally vertical direction. As a result, the generally horizontal flow from the guide member 33 collides with the columnar member 24c. Consequently, the jet of coolant from the guide member 33 is substantially diverted and diffused in a generally horizontal direction. Therefore, a significant effect on suppressing coolant surface disturbance is obtained. Furthermore, by providing the guide member 33, the freedom of configuration of the inlet can be increased, and a coolant surface disturbance suppression effect is obtained.

[0078] Furthermore, in the liquid storage tank described in the above embodiments, the direction (or perpendicular to both the extension line n of the flow toward the columnar member and the vertical direction) Figure 1 Viewed from a direction orthogonal to the plane of the paper, the columnar member extends in a generally vertical direction. However, it is not necessary for the columnar member to extend in a generally vertical direction. The columnar member can also be arranged so that, when viewed from a direction orthogonal to both the extension line n of the cooling water flow toward the columnar member and the vertical direction, it is inclined relative to the vertical direction. In this case, more specifically, it is preferable to arrange the columnar member at an inclination such that, when viewed from a direction orthogonal to both the extension line n of the cooling water flow toward the columnar member and the vertical direction, the columnar member tends to move downstream of the cooling water flow toward the columnar member as it moves downward in the vertical direction.

[0079] When the columnar component is tilted in this way, when the coolant jet collides with the columnar component, the flow tends to be slightly downward in the vertical direction. Therefore, a more significant effect on suppressing coolant surface disturbance can be obtained.

[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. In the liquid storage tank 40 of the fourth embodiment, the shape of the guide member 43, the shape of the columnar member 44, and the position of the inflow pipe 45 are different from those of the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment. The position of the discharge pipe 46 and the shape of the tank body 47, and other structures are the same as those of the liquid storage tank 10 of the first embodiment.

[0081] In the reservoir 40 of the fourth embodiment, the guide member 43 is, for example, tubular. That is, a substantial conduit is formed by the guide member 43 and a portion of the wall of the reservoir body 47. This conduit is connected to the inlet pipe 45 at one end and opens toward the interior space of the reservoir body 47 at the other end. Furthermore, the tubular guide member 43 guides the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe 45 into the interior of the reservoir body toward the columnar member 44 and toward a generally horizontal direction. A portion of the conduit formed by the guide member 43 may also extend in a generally vertical direction.

[0082] The tubular guide member only needs to be configured to guide the jet of coolant flowing from the inlet pipe 45 toward the columnar member 44 in a generally horizontal direction. For example, the guide member 43 can also be configured such that the pipe is oriented toward the columnar member 44 at the other end. Figure 10 (The axis n extends in the direction of n).

[0083] The other end of the pipe formed by the guide component 43 is vertically lower than the surface S of the coolant stored inside the tank body, opening towards the interior space of the tank body. With this structure, the coolant flows directly from the pipe into the coolant stored inside the tank. Therefore, a reliable effect of suppressing coolant level fluctuations can be achieved.

[0084] According to the fourth embodiment of the liquid storage tank 40, a pipe formed by the guide member 43 is connected to an inflow pipe 45 at one end, and opens into the tank body at the other end, vertically downwards from the surface S of the coolant. In this case, unlike the first to third embodiments, it is not necessary for the inflow pipe 45 to be connected to the tank body vertically downwards from the surface S of the coolant stored inside the tank body. In the fourth embodiment, the pipe formed by the guide member 43 functions as an extension of the inflow pipe 45. Therefore, it is possible to obtain substantially the same effect as when the inflow pipe is connected to the tank body at a lower level than the surface S of the coolant.

[0085] and Figure 1 The liquid reservoir 10 shown in the first embodiment is the same as that in the liquid reservoir 40 of the fourth embodiment, the coolant flows along the columnar member. Figure 10 Observed along the axis n, the columnar member 44 also extends in a generally vertical direction. As a result, the generally horizontal flow from the guide member 43 collides with the columnar member 44. Thus, the jet of coolant from the pipe is substantially diverted and diffused in a generally horizontal direction. As a result, a significant effect on suppressing the disturbance of the coolant surface can be obtained. Furthermore, by providing the guide member 43, the freedom of configuration of the inlet can be particularly improved, and the effect on suppressing the disturbance of the coolant surface can be obtained. That is, according to the reservoir 40 of the fourth embodiment, the inlet pipe 45 can also be connected at a position higher in the vertical direction than the coolant surface S. Therefore, the freedom of layout can be particularly improved.

[0086] 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.

[0087] The liquid storage tank in the embodiments of this disclosure may also be the first to eighth liquid storage tanks listed below.

[0088] The aforementioned 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; and an outlet pipe for discharging coolant from the reservoir body. The inlet pipe is connected to the reservoir body on a side that is vertically lower than the surface of the coolant stored inside the reservoir body, and a columnar member is erected inside the reservoir body. A guide member is also installed inside the reservoir body to guide the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe into the reservoir body into a flow that is approximately horizontal toward the columnar member. Observing along the flow of coolant toward the columnar member, the columnar member extends in a approximately vertical direction, and a portion of the columnar member is arranged on the extension line of the coolant flow toward the columnar member.

[0089] The second reservoir, based on the first reservoir, has a plurality of columnar components configured such that the flow of coolant from the guide component toward the columnar components is diverted in a generally horizontal direction by the first columnar component, and the flow of the diverted coolant is further diverted in a generally horizontal direction by the second columnar component.

[0090] Based on the first liquid storage tank, the third liquid storage tank is positioned such that the extension line of the coolant flow toward the columnar component intersects the columnar component at a position that is lower in the vertical direction than the surface of the coolant.

[0091] Based on the first liquid storage tank, the fourth liquid storage tank has a curved guide surface, and the central axis of the inflow pipe forms an angle of more than 30 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0092] The fifth liquid storage tank, based on any one of the first to fourth liquid storage tanks, has a columnar component configured to connect the top and bottom surfaces of the tank body.

[0093] The sixth liquid storage tank, based on any one of the first to fourth liquid storage tanks, has a cross-sectional shape at the horizontal plane of the columnar component that protrudes towards the upstream side of the coolant flow.

[0094] Based on any one of the first to fourth liquid storage tanks, the width of the columnar component when viewed along the flow of coolant toward the columnar component in the seventh liquid storage tank is more than 0.5 times and less than 3 times the diameter of the inflow pipe.

[0095] The aforementioned eighth reservoir is a reservoir installed in the coolant path of a liquid-cooled cooling system. It includes: a reservoir body for storing coolant; an inlet pipe for supplying coolant into the reservoir body; and a outlet pipe for discharging coolant from the reservoir body. Furthermore, a columnar member is erected inside the reservoir body, and a guide member is also installed inside the reservoir body. The guide member is tubular and is connected to the inlet pipe at one end, guiding the flow of coolant flowing from the inlet pipe into the reservoir body into a flow toward the columnar member in a generally horizontal direction. The other end of the guide member is open toward the interior space of the reservoir body at a vertically lower position than the surface of the coolant stored inside the reservoir body. When viewed along the flow of coolant toward the columnar member, the columnar member extends in a generally vertical direction, and a portion of the columnar member is arranged along the extension line of the coolant flow toward the columnar member.

[0096] 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, thus having high industrial applicability.

[0097] 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 it has: The main body of the tank stores coolant; An inflow pipe is configured to deliver coolant into the tank body; The discharge pipe is configured to discharge the coolant from the main body of the tank. A columnar component is erected inside the main body of the box; as well as Guide components are disposed 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 liquid level of the coolant stored inside the tank body. The guiding component is configured to guide the flow of coolant from the inflow pipe into the interior of the tank body toward the columnar component and in a generally horizontal direction. 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 any one of a D-shaped cross-section, a mountain-shaped cross-section, a circular cross-section, and a C-shaped cross-section, or the columnar component is an elliptical columnar component or a conical component. The columnar component, viewed along the flow of coolant toward the columnar component, extends in a generally vertical direction, and... A portion of the columnar component is positioned on the extension of the flow path of the coolant toward the columnar 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 from the guide component toward the columnar component is diverted in a generally horizontal direction through the first columnar component, and the diverted flow of coolant is further diverted in a generally horizontal direction through the second columnar component.

3. The liquid storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The point where the extension line of the coolant flow toward the columnar component intersects the columnar component is located on the lower side in the vertical direction than the surface of the coolant.

4. The liquid storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guiding component has a curved guiding surface. The central axis of the inflow pipe forms an angle of more than 30 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane.

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 observed along the flow of coolant toward the columnar component, 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 inflow pipe is configured to deliver coolant into the tank body; The discharge pipe is configured to discharge the coolant from the main body of the tank. Columnar components, erected inside the main body of the box; and Guide components are disposed inside the main body of the box. Pipelines are formed through the guiding components and the walls of the main body of the box. The pipeline is connected to the inflow pipe at one end, and at the other end opens vertically downward toward the interior space of the tank body, relative to the surface of the coolant stored inside the tank body. The piping is configured to guide the flow of coolant from the inlet pipe into the interior of the tank body toward the columnar member and in a generally horizontal direction. 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 any one of a D-shaped cross-section, a mountain-shaped cross-section, a circular cross-section, and a C-shaped cross-section, or the columnar component is an elliptical columnar component or a conical component. The columnar component, viewed along the flow of the coolant toward the columnar component, extends in a generally vertical direction, and... A portion of the columnar component is positioned on the extension of the flow path of the coolant toward the columnar component.

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