Device for processing a fluid in an at least partially electrically powered vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (100) for processing a fluid in an at least partially electrically powered vehicle, the device (100) having a rotary slide valve arrangement (360), the rotary slide valve arrangement (360) comprising a setting element (366) arranged rotatably about a central axis (361), a rotary slide valve wall (363), wherein the setting element (366) is arranged within the rotary slide valve wall (363) and rotatable relative to the rotary slide valve wall (363), wherein the rotary slide valve wall (363) comprises inlet and outlet openings (362A, 362B) arranged in a first plane (360A) and a second plane (360B).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for processing a fluid in an at least partially electrically powered vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0002] Such a device is also known in the prior art as an energy-optimization module or a thermal management device. The thermal management device essentially fulfills the task of optimizing the thermal energy balance in a motor vehicle, with the aim of reducing fuel consumption and emissions, ensuring cooling of the engine at each operating point and optimizing the interior comfort. The aim is to conduct the heat flow (for example, heating and cooling) in the internal combustion engine, the gearbox or the passenger compartment in the best possible way in order to reduce energy consumption and increase interior comfort. Heat is transferred from one object to another by means of a heat transfer medium (for example, coolant or air), usually by forced convection. Heat is transferred from one fluid to another via a heat exchanger (for example, a radiator, a charge air cooler, an EGR cooler or an air conditioning condenser). The mass flow of the fluid is maintained, inter alia, by a pump. An adequate cooling air mass flow is usually ensured by the airflow, so many vehicles are equipped with an electrically driven radiator fan if the airflow is not sufficient.

[0003] Such a thermal management module is sufficiently known in the prior art. For example, an integrated coolant bottle arrangement is known from WO 2017 / 223232 A2. The coolant bottle arrangement comprises a container configured for use in a thermal system. Examples of such thermal systems include cooling / heating systems of battery-powered electric vehicles, generators (for example, engine-based systems), other physical facility equipment, and the like. Such a reservoir comprises a first section and a second section. The second section is connected with the first section at a storage interface to form a reservoir configured to store and / or flow a fluid medium. The first section can comprise an integral channel providing a passageway for flow of the fluid medium. The reservoir can further comprise a component interface configured to facilitate connection of components therewith. Such components include, for example, a pump, a battery pump, a transmission pump, a chiller, a heater, a filter, an aerator, a valve, a connector, a fan, or a cooler.

[0004] Furthermore, a device for processing at least one fluid in a vehicle, in particular an at least partially electrically powered vehicle, is known from DE 10 2018 102 542 A1. The device comprises at least one substantially plate-like first distribution element and at least one second distribution element arranged substantially parallel to the first distribution element, wherein the first distribution element and / or the second distribution element comprise at least one fluid processing element in at least some regions, and wherein the first distribution element and the second distribution element comprise plastic in at least some regions, and a method for producing a device for processing at least one fluid, in particular at least one device according to the invention.

[0005] The problem with known thermal management modules is that several separate components are arranged dispersedly in the motor vehicle and are connected to each other via connection hoses, cables and control units. As a result, the connection hoses, cables and control units are sometimes distributed over long distances and the assembly effort is great. There is also a high risk of electrical leakage and short circuits, which affects the reliability and repair sensitivity of the entire thermal management module. In addition, there is also the problem that frequent leaks occur, for example pressure and voltage losses. Excessively long cable lengths or corrosion can also exacerbate this problem.

[0006] There is also a particular need to reduce the flow losses at the interfaces and fluid valves. This is based on the fact that the flow losses at the valves are caused in particular by deviations from the ideal geometry. These manifest themselves as a pressure difference upstream and downstream of the valve. Due to the pressure losses, it can even be necessary to provide a higher inlet pressure in the system to compensate for the occurring pressure losses. However, the consequence of a higher inlet pressure is an increased risk of leaks.

[0007] In addition, there is a particular need to arrange the connection hoses and control devices as efficiently as possible and to ensure easy control of the fluid in the connection hoses.

[0008] The present application is therefore based on the task of specifying a thermal management module which overcomes the problems from the prior art. SUMMARY

[0009] The solution according to the present application is to provide a device for processing a fluid within an at least partially electrically driven vehicle having a rotary slide valve arrangement. The rotary slide valve arrangement comprises a setting element arranged rotatably about a central axis, a rotary slide valve wall, wherein the setting element is arranged within the rotary slide valve wall and rotatable relative thereto, wherein the rotary slide valve wall comprises inflow and outflow openings arranged in a first plane and a second plane.

[0010] This provides the technical advantage that the double rotary slide valve arrangement according to the present application can operate two rotary slides with only one rotary slide arrangement. The fluid from the connection hose is able to flow in via a first layer into the rotary slide valve arrangement, continue to flow in a second layer within the rotary slide valve arrangement and flow out on the second layer via the connection hose. Thus, the connection hoses can be connected to each other across two different layers, allowing both rotary slide valve arrangements to be operated with only one fluid processing element. Thus, no additional fluid processing elements or additional rotary slides have to be operated with an additional stator-rotor arrangement.

[0011] The first plane and the second plane are arranged orthogonally to the central axis. The rotary slide valve wall is preferably configured as a cylinder, wherein the first plane defines an upper portion of the rotary slide valve wall and the second plane defines a lower portion of the rotary slide valve wall.

[0012] According to another embodiment, the rotary slide valve arrangement according to the present invention is capable of running more than two rotary slide valves simultaneously. For example, a third layer, a fourth layer or more layers can be envisaged. Each layer represents one rotary slide valve, wherein all rotary slide valves can be run by one fluid handling element.

[0013] Fluid in the sense of the present invention can be understood as any form of cooling water, coolant or refrigerant. For example, ethylene glycol or a mixture of ethylene glycol is added to the water-based fluid to lower the freezing point of the fluid. Alternatively, the fluid can be oil-based to eliminate the electrical conductivity of the fluid. This brings the additional advantage that the battery can be cooled directly.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the rotary slide valve arrangement comprises an upper channel connection element and a lower channel connection element. Both the upper channel connection element and the lower channel connection element are associated with the setting element and thus rotatable around the central axis. This provides the technical advantage that, for example, in the first plane as well as in the second plane, a diversion of the incoming fluid in the rotary slide valve arrangement and thus a control of the incoming fluid is possible. The upper channel connection element and the lower channel connection element can be transferred between different positions by a driver, so that the incoming fluid can be controlled.

[0015] According to another embodiment, the upper channel connection element can be connected with both the inflow and outflow openings of the first layer as well as the inflow and outflow openings of the second layer. This provides the technical advantage that, for example, fluid can flow into the rotary slide valve arrangement at the layer of the inflow and outflow openings of the first layer and can be directed by the upper channel connection element to the inflow and outflow openings of the second layer. In other words, the incoming fluid changes the layer within the rotary slide valve arrangement. Furthermore, fluid can flow into the rotary slide valve arrangement at the layer of the inflow and outflow openings of the first plane and be directed by the upper channel connection element to the inflow and outflow openings of the first plane. In other words, the fluid flowing into the rotary slide valve arrangement does not leave the plane. This depends on the switching position of the channel connection elements of the upper channel connection element and the lower channel connection element or the switching position of the entire setting element, respectively.

[0016] According to another embodiment, the upper channel connection element is configured as a T with a total of three channel arms. This provides the technical advantage that, for example, fluid flowing into the upper channel connection element can continue to flow in two different directions. For example, two channel arms extend over the first layer. Here, fluid can flow into the channel connection element at the layer of the inflow and outflow openings of the first plane and be directed to the inflow and outflow openings of the first plane. Here, the inflowing fluid in the upper channel connection element does not leave the plane. One of the channel arms leads from the first plane to the second plane. Here, fluid can flow into the channel connection element at the layer of the inflow and outflow openings of the first layer and be directed by the upper channel connection element to the inflow and outflow openings of the second layer. In other words, the incoming fluid changes the plane within the upper channel connection element.

[0017] To simplify the manufacturing of the setting element, the setting element is configured to divide an inner space into a first partial space and a second partial space, the inner space being defined by a rotating spool wall in radial direction and by two front planes axially delimiting the rotating spool wall. This provides a technical advantage of e.g. low-cost manufacturing of the setting element, as it can be produced using a conventional injection molding process. Despite this advantageous manufacturing, the advantages according to the present application are provided, in that two rotating spool valves can be operated simultaneously with only one rotating spool arrangement thereafter. Fluid from a connection hose can flow via a first layer into the rotating spool arrangement, continue to flow via a second layer within the rotating spool arrangement and out via a connection hose on the second layer. Thus, the connection hoses can be connected to each other across two different layers, allowing two rotating spool arrangements to be operated with only one fluid handling element. This avoids the need for additional fluid handling elements or additional rotating spools that have to be operated with an additional stator-rotor arrangement.

[0018] According to an additional embodiment, the setting element comprises a longitudinal plane, which is arranged parallel to the central axis but spaced apart from the central axis. The longitudinal plane divides the setting element into two different partial spaces. The first partial space connects the first plane and the second plane of the rotating spool arrangement. Thus, fluid can flow into the rotating spool arrangement at the level of the inflow and outflow openings of the first layer and can be guided through the first partial space to the inflow and outflow openings of the first or second layer. The second partial space connects the two port openings within the second plane. Thus, fluid can flow into the rotating spool arrangement at the level of the inflow and outflow openings of the second plane and can be guided through the second partial space to the inflow and outflow openings of the same plane.

[0019] In an alternative embodiment, the second partial space can connect the two port openings of two different layers. Thus, fluid can flow into the rotating spool arrangement at the level of the inlet and outflow openings of the second layer and be guided through the second partial space to the inlet and outflow openings of the first layer.

[0020] To ensure the functionality of the rotating spool arrangement, the distance between the longitudinal plane and the central axis is approximately half the diameter of the respective inflow and outflow openings.

[0021] To ensure the functionality of the rotating spool arrangement, the distance between the longitudinal plane and the central axis is approximately half the diameter of the respective inflow and outflow openings. This spacing is necessary to allow the fluid to flow unhindered into the first partial space of the rotating valve arrangement, in particular at the level of the first plane. This spacing is also necessary to ensure that the fluid can flow unhindered out of the rotating spool arrangement after flowing through the first partial space at the level of the second plane.

[0022] According to a particular embodiment, the setting element comprises an inclined plane enabling a fluid connection at least between the upper inflow and outflow opening and the lower inflow and outflow opening offset by 90°. This provides the technical advantage that, for example, fluid can flow through a first part space of the rotary slide valve arrangement and thus from a first plane to a second plane of the rotary slide valve arrangement. The inclined plane accordingly diverts the fluid and is thus particularly easy to manufacture. In the context of production using a classic injection molding process, it is also possible to ensure demolding properties.

[0023] In order to ensure a flow through the rotary slide valve arrangement while changing planes at the same time, the setting element in the rotary slide valve wall can be aligned in such a way that the upper inlet and outflow opening of the first plane can be fluidically connected with the inlet and outflow opening of the second plane.

[0024] According to a particular embodiment, the inflow and outflow openings are each arranged at a distance of 90° from one another in the circumferential direction of the rotary slide valve wall.

[0025] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the device comprises a device housing having a first housing section and a second housing section, wherein the first housing section and the second housing section are configured to adjoin one another by means of a fluid-impermeable contour wall. The contour wall comprises a side oriented towards the first housing section and a side oriented towards the second housing section. Furthermore, the device comprises at least one fluid handling element, wherein the fluid handling element comprises a means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field arranged in the first housing section and a means in the form of a valve apparatus which is movable by means of the generated magnetic field and is arranged in the second housing section.

[0026] This leads to the technical advantage that, for example, there is only a magnetic coupling between the means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field and the means which is movable by means of the generated magnetic field. This magnetic coupling acts through the fluid-impermeable contour wall and enables the means which is movable by means of the generated magnetic field to be arranged in the second housing section wet-running in the fluid. On the other hand, the means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field is arranged together with the control unit in the "hydraulically decoupled", dry first housing section. The separation between the water-carrying second housing section and the electronics in the first housing section reduces the risk of electric leakage and short circuits. Furthermore, it is not necessary to use dynamic seals. This means that there is no heat loss due to friction and the energy efficiency is improved. Overall, a higher degree of efficiency can thus be achieved. This means that the valve apparatus can be arranged in the second housing section as a whole.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the component for generating the controllable variable magnetic field includes a stator, and the component in the form of a valve device movable by the generated magnetic field includes a rotor. Due to the rotor-stator arrangement, torque can be generated via magnetic coupling through a fluid-impermeable contour wall. Alternatively, the fluid handling element may include, for example, an electric motor, a coil arrangement, or a switching magnet, as a component for generating the controllable variable magnetic field arranged in the first housing section.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the profile wall includes a cylindrical protrusion that at least substantially fills the interior of the stator disposed in the first housing section. This has technical advantages, such as the protrusion of the profile wall determining the precise mounting position of the stator. The profile wall thus has a dual function: on the one hand, fluid impermeability essential for the present invention, and on the other hand, positioning of the stator within the first housing section.

[0029] Another advantageous embodiment of this configuration specifies that the cylindrical protrusion is configured to receive a rotor arranged in the second housing section. This provides the additional advantage of, for example, optimal orientation of the rotor arranged in the second housing section relative to the stator. Furthermore, the cylindrical protrusion can serve as a guide for the rotor during operation, wherein fluid impermeability is not restricted while still ensuring separation between the water-bearing second housing section and the electronics in the first housing section.

[0030] According to another advantageous embodiment, the second housing section is configured to carry fluid and includes at least one connection for fluid inflow and / or outflow. This has technical advantages, for example, the second housing section can be designed without electrical interfaces. The focus is solely on fluid supply, diversion, and discharge, wherein the manufacture of the second housing section is characterized by the selection of inexpensive materials and suitable connection methods. For example, the second housing section can be manufactured using vibration welding or mirror welding, which is problematic due to thermal reasons when integrated with an electronic control unit and can therefore only be implemented separately. Several ports for fluid inflow and / or outflow can also be implemented. Ports represent customer interfaces. The hose diameter, number, and corresponding position of the ports can vary. Depending on customer requirements, the orientation of the ports can also be adjusted, wherein variable adjustability of the ports is also conceivable.

[0031] According to another embodiment, the device includes a second fluid processing element, which includes a fluid pump. Therefore, for example, it can provide the technical advantage that an additional fluid circuit can be controlled by the second fluid pump.

[0032] In a particular embodiment, the rotor axes of the fluid handling elements are arranged parallel to each other. This provides a particular advantage: production and assembly in this arrangement are exceptionally simple. Furthermore, individual components can be easily tested and replaced.

[0033] A further aspect is to provide a device for processing a fluid in an at least partially electrically powered vehicle, wherein the device comprises a device housing, a first housing section and a second housing section, wherein the first housing section and the second housing section are configured to be adjacent to each other by a fluid-impermeable contour wall. Furthermore, the contour wall comprises a side oriented towards the first housing section, a side oriented towards the second housing section and at least one fluid processing element, wherein the fluid processing element comprises a means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field arranged in the first housing section and a means movable by the generated magnetic field arranged in the second housing section.

[0034] This leads to a technical advantage that there is only a magnetic coupling between the means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field and the means movable by the generated magnetic field, for example. This magnetic coupling acts through the fluid-impermeable contour wall and allows the means movable by the generated magnetic field to be arranged to wetly operate in the fluid in the second housing section. On the other hand, the means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field is arranged together with a control unit in the "hydraulically decoupled", dry first housing section. The separation between the water-carrying second housing section and the electronics in the first housing section reduces the risk of electric leakage and short circuits. Furthermore, it is not necessary to use dynamic seals. Thus, there is no heat loss due to friction and the energy efficiency is improved. Overall, a higher efficiency can thus be achieved.

[0035] In the sense of the invention, the fluid-impermeable contour wall is understood to be a continuous separation layer which is configured to be continuous without interruption at least between the means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field and the means movable by the generated magnetic field. Fluid-impermeable in this context means that no fluid exchange can take place through the contour wall. The fluid-impermeable contour wall can be limited to one fluid processing element, for example. Alternatively, the contour wall can also be understood to be a continuous separation layer for accommodating several fluid processing elements. In contrast to known elastomer-based elastically deformable seals, no leakage due to flow around the contour wall occurs. The impermeable contour wall is understood to be like a continuous shell surface. For example, the continuous interface can also be the surface of a plastic body which carries the means movable by the generated magnetic field inside and is controllable by the means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field from the outer surface of the plastic body.

[0036] The fluid in the sense of the invention can be understood to be any form of cooling water, coolant or refrigerant. For example, ethylene glycol or ethylene glycol mixtures are added to the water-based fluid to lower the freezing point of the fluid. Alternatively, the fluid can be oil-based to eliminate the electrical conductivity of the fluid. This brings the additional advantage that the battery can be cooled directly.

[0037] The means for generating a controllable variable magnetic field can be understood as any means suitable for generating a magnetic field with the aid of an electric current. The magnetic field is configured to be controllable by means of an electric current supply, which in the simplest case means at least switching the magnetic field on and off. However, it is also possible to vary the magnetic field strength between switching on and off. For example, an electric coil arrangement, an electromagnet, a stepper motor, a switched magnet, a brushless motor, a claw motor or an electric linear actuator can be envisaged as such a means.

[0038] On the other hand, a permanent magnet, a ferromagnet or an object having a rare earth-based material can be envisaged as a means that can be moved by the generated magnetic field.

[0039] According to an advantageous further embodiment of the application, the means for generating a controllable variable magnetic field comprises a stator and the means that can be moved by the generated magnetic field comprises a rotor. Due to the rotor-stator arrangement, a torque can be generated by the fluid-impermeable contour wall by means of magnetic coupling. Alternatively, the fluid handling element can comprise, for example, an electric motor, a coil arrangement or a switched magnet as a means for generating a controllable variable magnetic field arranged in the first housing section.

[0040] According to a further embodiment, the contour wall comprises a cylindrical protrusion which at least substantially fills the interior of the stator arranged in the first housing section. This has the technical advantage, for example, that the cylindrical protrusion of the contour wall determines the exact mounting position of the stator. The contour wall thus has a dual function. On the one hand the fluid-impermeability which is essential for the application and on the other hand the positioning of the stator in the first housing section.

[0041] According to a further embodiment, the cylindrical protrusion is configured to receive the rotor arranged in the second housing section. This has the additional advantage, for example, that the rotor arranged in the second housing section is optimally oriented with respect to the stator. Furthermore, the cylindrical protrusion can serve as a guide for the rotor during operation, wherein the fluid-impermeability is not restricted and the separation between the second housing section carrying the water and the electronics in the first housing section is still ensured.

[0042] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the second housing section is configured to carry a fluid and comprises at least one connection for the inflow and / or outflow of the fluid. This has the technical advantage that the second housing section can be designed without an electrical interface. The focus is solely on the supply, diversion and discharge of the fluid, wherein the manufacture of the second housing section is characterized by inexpensive material selection and suitable joining methods. For example, the second housing section can be manufactured by means of vibration welding or mirror welding, which is problematic in conjunction with an electronic control unit due to thermal reasons and can therefore only be implemented separately. Several ports for the inflow and / or outflow of the fluid can also be implemented. The ports represent a customer interface. The hose diameter, the number and the respective position of the ports can be varied. Depending on the customer requirements, the direction of the ports can also be adjusted, wherein a variable adjustability of the ports is also conceivable.

[0043] In order to make the entire device as flexible as possible to the specific customer requirements, different functions can be assigned to each fluid handling element in the device. For this purpose, the fluid handling element comprises a fluid pump or a fluid valve. Depending on the intended use, embodiments of the fluid handling element are therefore implemented, wherein in each embodiment the magnetic coupling remains connected with the fluid-impermeable profile wall and the member that can be moved by the generated magnetic field is arranged to wetly operate in the fluid in the second housing section.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the rotor is associated with a member for conveying and / or controlling the fluid. Due to the magnetic coupling between the stator and the rotor, the magnet arranged on the rotor is set in rotation by the stator. In addition, different members can be arranged on the rotor itself, depending on the required function of the respective fluid handling element. For example, a pump with an impeller or with a runner can be used to pump the fluid. In order to control or divert the fluid, for example, a rotary valve or a switch valve can be used.

[0045] According to an alternative embodiment, the member comprises a switching element. This allows, for example, the technical advantage that the switching element can be configured as a rotary slide valve. This makes the device or the fluid handling element suitable for different vehicles and different functions. Different installation spaces and different requirements of vehicle manufacturers make different switching strategies necessary. For example, the fluid can be diverted by means of a rotary slide valve and a variety of ports and switching modes can be implemented.

[0046] According to an alternative embodiment, the member comprises a runner. This has the technical advantage that, for example, the runner can be integrated directly into the fluid circuit. By means of the stator-rotor connection, a pump function can thus be realized from the rotation. For example, the runner is configured as an impeller.

[0047] According to an additional embodiment, a wet-running gear box is associated with the rotor. This provides technical advantages, for example, the torque generated at the rotor can be adapted to the required function. For example, different stages can be used for the transmission. The gear box can be arranged directly in the fluid and thus in the second housing section. This eliminates the need for dynamic sealing. Potential necessary lubrication can be provided directly by the cooling water and any heat losses due to friction are directly dissipated into the cooling fluid.

[0048] In a particular embodiment, an electrical control unit is associated with the first housing section for controlling the device. The electrical control unit is necessary for the operation of the device and can be arranged outside the first housing section or inside the first housing section. It is also conceivable to operate the device with a customer-provided external control unit, for which an interface can be provided on the first housing section. However, alternatively or additionally, the control unit can be arranged within the first housing section.

[0049] On this basis, the electrical control unit is arranged within the first housing section adjacent to the fluid-impermeable contour wall. For example, a technical advantage can be provided that the electrical control unit can be effectively cooled by placing it against the fluid-impermeable contour wall within the first housing section. This cooling takes place without the risk of direct contact with the fluid, thus avoiding short circuits. In addition, the fluid can be heated with the dissipated heat. Another advantage is the large temperature difference between the low coolant temperature and the chip temperature of the power electronics. For example, a temperature sensor can be arranged on one side of the electrical control unit, i.e. in the dry area, to measure the fluid temperature. The sensor would thus measure through the fluid-impermeable contour wall, where the evaluation of the sensor signal can take place directly in the dry area of the first housing section.

[0050] According to a further embodiment, the device comprises a second fluid handling element comprising a fluid pump. Thus, for example, a technical advantage can be provided that an additional fluid circuit can be controlled by a second fluid pump.

[0051] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the device comprises a third fluid handling element comprising a fluid valve. The fluid valve has the function of a rotary slide valve. The rotary valve makes the device suitable for different vehicles, where different installation spaces and different requirements can for example make it necessary to divert the fluid. By means of a switching interface, it is possible to switch from a parallel circuit to a series circuit.

[0052] According to a particular embodiment, the fluid valve comprises a double rotary slide arrangement with a first layer and a second layer. This leads to the technical advantage that for example two switching positions can be arranged and operated simultaneously in one rotary valve with only one fluid handling element. For example, no additional fluid handling element is required, since two switching positions can be controlled with only one rotor-stator arrangement. For example, it can be necessary to supply fluid to different installation spaces on different vehicles. In order to avoid having to replace the entire fluid handling element, it is possible to use a rotary valve assembly with different layers. Thus, depending on the desired purpose, different fluid channels are connected to each other without having to change the entire fluid handling element. For example, the first layer can comprise valve positions that allow a 90° turn, while the second layer can comprise valve positions that allow a 180° turn, i.e. straight ahead. By appropriately utilizing the associated ports of the rotary valve assembly in the first plane or the second plane, the desired functionality is achieved.

[0053] According to a further embodiment, the device comprises an expansion valve for the associated heat exchanger. This provides the technical advantage that for example the heat exchanger can also be integrated into the device and the control of the expansion valve can be performed in a similar way as the other fluid handling elements of the device. The manufacture and assembly of the device are additionally simplified.

[0054] Based thereon, the heat exchanger comprises an associated heating device. Preferably, the heating device can be integrated into the heat exchanger, so that the fluid can be heated directly and can then be used for heating the battery, the engine or the interior of the vehicle. The heat exchanger, also referred to as chiller, would thus have the ability to actively heat or cool.

[0055] Such a heat exchanger is usually brazed from stacked sheet metal. The plates are brazed in such a way that one passage of a first fluid is always alternately in thermal contact with a passage of a second fluid. Due to the large contact area, heat can be optimally transferred. For example, a heat-formed sleeve can be brazed into a package of stacked sheet metal, which can then be filled with an electric heating wire and insulating ceramic, similar to a conventional heating cartridge. The heating device can also be operated in an inductive manner, for example, in which an inductively heatable object is inserted and heated via a circulating induction coil. It is also conceivable to use a combined control unit, which would save additional cables and simplify module integration. Overall, such a heat exchanger saves additional hose connections and makes the device more compact.

[0056] According to a further embodiment, the first housing section comprises a removable first cover element. This provides the technical advantage that for example the components of the dry area and the electronics in the device can be directly accessed for maintenance purposes. Thus, inspection or maintenance is greatly simplified.

[0057] According to an additional embodiment, the second housing section comprises a removable second cover element. This also provides the technical advantage that all wet running components of the device can be directly accessed for maintenance purposes. Inspection or maintenance is also greatly simplified.

[0058] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the device comprises a first fluid circuit associated with the first fluid handling element and a second fluid circuit associated with the second fluid handling element. This makes the device particularly easy to operate. In combination with a double rotary slide valve arrangement, for example, a total of four fluid circuits can be operated with two fluid handling elements, each having two switching positions in the rotary slide valve. In combination with a series or parallel arrangement, additional functionality can be provided.

[0059] According to a particular embodiment, the rotor axes of the fluid handling elements are arranged parallel to each other. This provides the particular advantage that production and assembly in such an arrangement are particularly simple. Moreover, individual components can be easily tested and exchanged.

[0060] In order to improve the flexibility of the device and integration into a vehicle, the ports for fluid inflow and / or outflow are arranged in a plane that is approximately orthogonal to the orientation of the rotor axes of the fluid handling elements. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0061] The application is explained below in more detail by way of a description of examples with reference to the drawings. Other advantageous embodiments and combinations of features of the application result from the following description and all patent claims.

[0062] The drawings used to explain the examples are shown as follows:

[0063] Figure 1 is an exploded view of a device for handling fluids according to a first embodiment;

[0064] Figure 2A is a detailed longitudinal section of a fluid handling element of a device of the application;

[0065] Figure 2B is a detailed longitudinal section of a fluid handling element of a device according to the application according to an alternative embodiment;

[0066] Figure 2C is a detailed longitudinal section of a fluid handling element of a device according to the application according to another embodiment;

[0067] Figure 3 is a longitudinal section of a fluid handling element of a device according to the application;

[0068] Figure 4 is a detailed longitudinal section of a further fluid handling element of a device according to the application;

[0069] Figure 5 is a schematic view of a wet running gear box of a device according to the present invention;

[0070] Fig. 6 is a few schematic views of a rotary valve assembly of a device according to the present invention; and

[0071] Figure 7 is an exploded view of a device for processing a fluid according to the present invention according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] Figure 1 An exploded view of a device 100 for processing a fluid according to a first embodiment according to the present invention is shown. The device 100 is intended for use in a vehicle that is at least partially electrically powered. It can thus be used both in a purely electrically powered vehicle and in a hybrid vehicle.

[0073] The device 100 comprises a first housing section 200 and a second housing section 300, wherein the first housing section 200 and the second housing section 300 are configured to be adjacent to each other by means of a fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. The contour wall 150 is configured as a single piece. In the present embodiment, the contour wall 150 is also an outer wall of the second housing section 300, whereby the outer wall is identical to the side of the second housing section 300 that is oriented towards the first housing section 200.

[0074] On the side facing the first housing section 200, the contour wall 150 comprises a plurality of cylindrical protrusions 152. Applied to these cylindrical protrusions 152 are members in the form of stators (210A, 210B, 210C) for generating a controllably variable magnetic field. The cylindrical protrusions 152 protrude into the interior of each arranged stator and fill this interior in such a way that hollow cylinders are configured on the side of the second housing section 300, into which hollow cylinders members 310A, 310B, 310C designed to be movable by the generated magnetic field can be inserted into the second housing section 300. The members 210A, 210B, 210C, 210D for generating a controllably variable magnetic field are configured as stators of a stepper motor in the present embodiment, but they can also be configured as ordinary electric motors, brushless direct current motors (e.g. claw motors) or solenoid valves.

[0075] On the side of the contour wall 150 which is oriented towards the second housing section 300 (not shown), there are components 310A, 310B, 310C which are configured to be movable by the magnetic field generated by the respective associated components 210A, 210B, 210C for generating a controllably variable magnetic field. The components 310A, 310B, 310C which are configured to be movable by the generated magnetic field each comprise a rotor with an associated magnet. The rotor is caused to rotate by a stator, whereby the components 310A, 310B, 310C which are configured to be movable by the magnetic field are controllable by the stator. The components 310A, 310B, 310C which are movable by the generated magnetic field are each associated with a component for conveying and / or controlling a fluid. For example, the stator of the component 210B for generating a controllably variable magnetic field is associated with a switching element 330 which is configured as a rotary slide. Due to the rotary slide valve, different installation spaces and different requirements can be implemented by different circuit strategies. Fluids can be diverted and different port and switching patterns can be combined.

[0076] The stators of the components 210A, 210C for generating a controllably variable magnetic field are each associated with a runner wheel 340. The runner wheel is configured as, for example, an impeller and is directly integrated into a fluid circuit within the second housing section 300. Torque is generated by the stator via magnetic coupling to the rotor, which causes rotation of the impeller. The impeller can thus be used as a pump for the respective associated fluid circuit.

[0077] The rotors associated with the components 310A, 310B, 310C which are configured to be movable by the magnetic field are each placed in a cylindrical protrusion 152 of the contour wall 150 in the second housing section 300. In other words, the cylindrical protrusion 152 enables both a precise arrangement of the stators in the first housing section 200 and a precise arrangement of the rotors in the second housing section 300, thus enabling a precise association of the rotors with the stators. In other words, the cylindrical protrusion 152 enables both a precise arrangement of the stators in the first housing section 200 and a precise arrangement of the rotors in the second housing section 300, thus enabling a precise association of the rotors with the stators. The cylindrical protrusion thus fulfills a dual function, on the one hand the allocation of the rotors and stators and on the other hand a fluid-tight separation between the first housing section 200 and the second housing section 300, which can be referred to as hydraulic decoupling.

[0078] The combination of the components 210A, 210B, 210C in the form of stators for generating a controllably variable magnetic field which are arranged in the dry first housing section 200, the respective associated components 310A, 310B, 310C which are movable by the generated magnetic field, which are arranged in the wet second housing section 300 and which can be operated by magnetic coupling across the contour wall 152, each describe a fluid handling element 110A, 110B, 110C.

[0079] One exception is the component 210D in the form of a stepper motor for generating a controllable variable magnetic field. This is arranged in the dry first housing section 200. However, the expansion valve 370 is associated with the stepper motor. In contrast to the fluid handling elements 110A, 110B, 110C already described, there is no continuous fluid-impermeable contour wall 150 between the component 210D for generating a controllable variable magnetic field and the component that can be moved by the generated magnetic field. The latter is integrated into the housing of the expansion valve 370 and the expansion valve 370 is arranged only parallel to the other fluid handling elements 110A, 110B, 110C on the housing section of the device 100, wherein the stepper motor is integrated into the dry area of the first housing section 200. In order to seal the necessary openings in the fluid-impermeable contour wall 150 for the expansion valve 370 to pass through, it is advisable to arrange O-rings.

[0080] Overall, in the present embodiment, the device 100 comprises a first fluid handling element 110A which is configured as a fluid pump. Furthermore, the device 100 comprises a second fluid handling element 110C which also comprises a fluid pump. This allows two separate fluid circuits to be operated or allows fluid to be conveyed from two separate fluid circuits. Furthermore, the device 100 comprises a third fluid handling element 110B which comprises a switching element 330 or a fluid valve. The fluid valve is configured with a rotary slide valve and the rotary slide valve adapts the device 100 to different vehicles. Different installation spaces and different requirements of the vehicle can be implemented, for example by diverting the fluid. By switching the rotary slide valve, it is possible to switch from a parallel fluid circuit to a series fluid circuit. Furthermore, a proportional mixing ratio can be provided. Furthermore, the device 100 comprises a component 210D in the form of a stepper motor for generating a controllable variable magnetic field, wherein an expansion valve 370 is associated with the component 210D for operating a heat exchanger 380.

[0081] All fluid handling elements (110A, 110B, 110C) are arranged on the device 100 such that the rotor axes (not shown) of the fluid handling elements 110A, 110B, 110C are arranged parallel to one another. This significantly simplifies the production and assembly of the entire device 100, wherein additional individual components can be easily tested and replaced.

[0082] A plurality of ports 320A, 320B, 320C, 320D are arranged on the second housing section 300 for fluid inflow and / or outflow. These ports serve as a customer interface and can be changed in terms of pipe diameter and respective position as required. The present embodiment comprises a total of four ports 320A, 320B, 320C, 320D, which each laterally discharge fluid from and introduce fluid into the second housing section 300. One port 320D serves as a connection to the heat exchanger 380. The heat exchanger 380 is associated with a component 210D in the form of a stepper motor for generating a controllably variable magnetic field in the dry first housing section 200. The heat exchanger 380 is also associated with the expansion valve 370.

[0083] The device 100 also comprises an electrical control unit 220, which is also arranged in the dry first housing section 200. The electrical control unit 220 is configured as a flat object, which is typically used, for example, as a control board or the like. The control unit 220 is arranged above the components 210A, 210B, 210C, 210D for generating a controllably variable magnetic field in the form of stators. The electrical control unit 220 is necessary for controlling the device 100. For example, the control unit 220 can also be arranged between the individual stators within the first housing section 200, but immediately adjacent to the fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. This would be advantageous, since the electrical control unit 220 can be additionally cooled without the risk of direct contact with the fluid. Furthermore, heating can be provided by the heat losses that occur during operation of the electrical control unit 220.

[0084] The first housing section 200 comprises a removable first cover element 202. This first cover element 202 facilitates access to all electronics, for example the electrical control unit 220 or the components 210A, 210B, 210C, 210D for generating a controllably variable magnetic field, which are installed within the first housing section 200. Thus, the dry area and the components of the electronics in the device 100 can be directly accessed for maintenance, inspection or even testing purposes. Furthermore, the first cover element 202 comprises a connector port 204, which can serve as an additional interface for the customer. For example, the device 100 can be connected and operated with the customer's own control unit.

[0085] The second housing section 300 therefore also has a removable second cover element 302. This second cover element 302 can also be removed for maintenance purposes, thus allowing direct access to all wet-running components of the device 100. For example, defective components can also be replaced without the entire device 100 having to be removed directly from the associated vehicle.

[0086] As already explained, the first housing section 200 and the second housing section 300 are configured to be adjacent to each other by a fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. The contour wall 150 is configured as a single piece. In this embodiment, almost all fluid handling elements 110A, 110B, 110C are arranged on the continuous fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. The continuous fluid-impermeable contour wall 150 is also the outer wall of the second housing section 300.

[0087] Figure 2A A detailed longitudinal section of a fluid handling element 110A of the device 100 according to the present application is shown. The device 100 comprises a first housing section 200 and a second housing section 300, wherein the first housing section 200 and the second housing section 300 are configured to be adjacent to each other by a fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. The contour wall 150 is at the same time the outer wall of the second housing section 300, whereby the outer wall is identical to the side of the second housing section 300 which is oriented towards the first housing section 200.

[0088] The contour wall 150 comprises on the side facing the first housing section 200 a protrusion 152. The protrusion 152 is surrounded by the means 210A for generating a controllably variable magnetic field in the form of a stator and the protrusion 152 protrudes completely through the interior of the stator, almost completely filling it.

[0089] Furthermore, an electrical control unit 220 for controlling the device 100 is located within the first housing section 200. It is arranged above the means 210A for generating a controllably variable magnetic field. The means 210A for generating a controllably variable magnetic field and the electrical control unit 220 for controlling the device 100 are enclosed by the first cover element 202 and are protected from external influences, such as dust, moisture or mechanical effects.

[0090] Within the second housing section 300, which is configured to carry fluid, a member 310A is arranged that is movable by a generated magnetic field. The member 310A that is movable by a generated magnetic field comprises a rotor 314 with associated magnets. The rotor 314 is precisely inserted into the protrusion 152 of the profile wall 150, which ensures a precise alignment between the rotor 314 and the stator. The rotor 314 is arranged to rotate by the stator, whereby the member 310A that is movable by a generated magnetic field is arranged to rotate and can thus be controlled by the stator. To improve the functioning of the rotor-stator arrangement, an insulator (not shown) is arranged between the rotor 314 and the protrusion 152 in the radial direction. For example, a ferrite filling is suitable for this. A runner wheel 340 is arranged below the rotor 314, which runner wheel 340 can be used as a pump for transporting fluid by rotation. The runner wheel 340 is located within a runner wheel housing 342, wherein a fluid inlet opening 344 is located at the lower end of the runner wheel housing 342. Due to the rotation of the runner wheel 340 in the radial direction, fluid thus flows into the runner wheel housing 342 through the fluid inlet opening 344 and out through a fluid outlet opening (not shown). The runner wheel housing 342 can thus be incorporated as a separate component into the second housing section 300, which varies depending on the runner wheel size and / or the desired pump performance. The rotor 314 comprises a rotor axis 312A, with respect to which the member 310A that is movable by a generated magnetic field, comprising the rotor 314 and the runner wheel 340, is arranged rotationally symmetrically.

[0091] Figure 2B A longitudinal cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the fluid handling element 110 of the device 100 according to the application is shown. This embodiment also comprises a first housing section (not shown) and a second housing section (not shown), wherein the first housing section 200 and the second housing section 300 are configured to be adjacent to each other by a fluid impermeable profile wall 150. The profile wall 150 comprises a protrusion 152 on the side that is oriented towards the first housing section 200. The protrusion 152 is surrounded by a member 210 in the form of a stator that generates a controllable variable magnetic field. The stator comprises a first stator 210-1 and a second stator 210-2. The first stator 210-1 and the second stator 210-2 are arranged next to each other in the direction of the rotor axis 312.

[0092] A member that is movable by a generated magnetic field is arranged within the second housing section 300, which is configured to carry fluid. The member that is movable by a generated magnetic field comprises a first member 310-1 that is movable by a generated magnetic field and a second member 310-2 that is movable by a generated magnetic field.

[0093] The first member 310-1 movable by the generated magnetic field is here associated with the magnetic field of the first stator 210-1 and the second member 310-2 movable by the generated magnetic field is associated with the magnetic field of the second stator 210-2.

[0094] Furthermore, the first member 310-1 movable by the generated magnetic field of the first stator 210-1 comprises a first rotor 314A with associated magnets.

[0095] Hence, the second member 310-2 movable by the generated magnetic field of the second stator 210-2 comprises a second rotor 314B with associated magnets.

[0096] Both rotors 314A, 314B are precisely inserted into the protrusion 152 of the profile wall 150 in the second housing section 300. The first rotor 314A is associated with the first stator 210-1. The first rotor 314A is set in rotation by the first stator 210-1, whereby the first member 310-1 movable by the magnetic field of the first stator 210-1 can be set in rotation and can thus be controlled by the first stator 210-1.

[0097] The second rotor 314B is associated with the second stator 210-2. The second rotor 314B is set in rotation by the second stator 210-2, whereby the second member 310-2 movable by the magnetic field of the second stator 210-2 can be set in rotation and can thus be controlled by the second stator 210-2.

[0098] The rotor shaft 316 connects the first rotor 314A with a first runner wheel 340A, which can be rotated to function as a pump to transport fluid. The first runner wheel 340A is located within a runner wheel housing 342A, wherein a fluid inlet opening 344A is located at a lower end of the runner wheel housing 342A. Due to the rotation of the runner wheel 340A in a radial direction, fluid thus flows into the runner wheel housing 342A through the fluid inlet opening 344A and out through a fluid outlet opening 346A.

[0099] The second rotor 314B is connected via a hollow rotor shaft 317 with a second runner wheel 340B, which can function as a pump to transport fluid by rotation. The second runner wheel 340B is located within a runner wheel housing 342B, wherein fluid flows into the runner wheel housing 342B via a laterally arranged fluid inlet port 344B. Rotation of the runner wheel 340B causes fluid to flow out in a radial direction through a fluid outlet opening 346B.

[0100] The first runner housing 342A and the second runner housing 342B are separated from each other by a separator 348. The rotor shaft 316 associated with the first rotor 314A and the first stator 210-1 extends through a hollow rotor shaft 317 and through the second runner housing 342B. The hollow rotor shaft 317 can be fixed directly to the separator element 348, for example.

[0101] The first runner 340A can be operated by selectively controlling the first stator 210-1 by the electrical control unit 220 (not shown). By selectively controlling the second stator 210-2, the second runner 340B can be operated independently of the first runner 340A. Here, the rotors 314A, 314B comprise a common rotor axis 312, both the first member 310-1 movable by the generated magnetic field of the first stator 210-1 and the second member 310-2 movable by the generated magnetic field of the second stator 210-2 are arranged rotationally symmetrical with respect to this common rotor axis 312.

[0102] This means that two different fluid pumps can be arranged and operated in one compact housing. This leads to the additional advantage that two different fluid circuits can be transported separately from each other in the device 100. By separating the stator 210 into the first stator 210-1 and the second stator 210-2, the two pumps can be controlled at different and diverging speeds. This leads to a high degree of flexibility and different operating modes can be followed in the individual fluid circuits without having to consider any dependencies or influences between the fluid circuits.

[0103] In order to improve the functionality of the device 100, an insulation (not shown) can be arranged in radial direction between the first rotor 314A and the fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. Similarly, an insulation (not shown) can be arranged in radial direction between the second rotor 314B and the fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. A ferrite filling is suitable for this, for example.

[0104] Figure 2C A detailed longitudinal section of a fluid handling element 110 of a device 100 according to the invention is shown according to a further embodiment. This embodiment also comprises a first housing section (not shown) and a second housing section (not shown), wherein the first housing section 200 and the second housing section 300 are configured to be adjacent to each other by a fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. The contour wall 150 comprises a protrusion 152 on the side oriented towards the second housing section 300. A member 210 in the form of a stator for generating a controllably variable magnetic field is inserted into the protrusion 152. The stator comprises a first stator 210-1 and a second stator 210-2. The first stator 210-1 and the second stator 210-2 are arranged adjacent to each other in the direction of the rotor axis 312.

[0105] The moveable by generated magnetic field member is arranged in the second housing section 300, which is configured to carry a fluid. The moveable by generated magnetic field member comprises a first rotor 314A and a second rotor 314B.

[0106] The first rotor 314A is associated with the magnetic field of the first stator 210-1 and the second rotor 314B is associated with the magnetic field of the second stator 210-2.

[0107] The two rotors 314A, 314B are arranged in the second housing section 300 around the protrusion 152 of the contour wall 150. The first rotor 314A is here associated with the first stator 210-1 and is caused to rotate by the first stator 210-1 and thus can be controlled by the first stator 210-1.

[0108] The first rotor 314A is connected with a first runner wheel 340A, which can be used as a pump for conveying fluid by rotation. The first runner wheel 340A is arranged radially outside the first rotor 314A and is located in a runner wheel housing 342A.

[0109] Due to the rotation of the runner wheel 340A in the radial direction, fluid enters the runner wheel housing 342A through a fluid inlet port 344A arranged on the side and exits through a fluid outlet port 346A.

[0110] The second rotor 314B is associated with the second stator 210-2. The second rotor 314B is caused to rotate by the second stator 210-2 and thus can be controlled by the second stator 210-2.

[0111] The second rotor 314B is connected with a second runner wheel 340B, which can be used as a pump for pumping fluid by rotation. The second runner wheel 340B is located radially outside the second rotor 314B and is arranged in a runner wheel housing 342B. Fluid flows into the runner wheel housing 342B from below via a fluid inlet port 344B. Due to the rotation of the runner wheel 340B, the fluid is discharged in the radial direction through a fluid outlet opening 346B.

[0112] The first runner wheel housing 342A and the second runner wheel housing 342B are configured to be separated from each other by means of a separating element 348. For example, the separating element 348 is arranged radially outward on the protrusion 152 of the contour wall 150, and the protrusion 152 comprises a holder formed for this purpose.

[0113] The first running wheel 340A can be operated by selectively controlling the first stator 210-1 by the electrical control unit 220 (not shown). By selectively controlling the second stator 210-2, the second running wheel 340B can be operated independently of the first running wheel 340A. Here, the rotors 314A, 314B comprise a common rotor axis 312, both the first stator 210-1 and the second stator 210-2 as well as the first running wheel 340A and the second running wheel 340B are arranged rotationally symmetrical with respect to this common rotor axis 312.

[0114] This means that two different fluid pumps can be arranged and operated in one compact housing. This leads to the additional advantage that two different fluid circuits can be transported separately from each other in the device 100. By separating the stators 210 into a first stator 210-1 and a second stator 210-2, both pumps can be controlled at different and diverging rotational speeds. This leads to a high degree of flexibility and different operating modes can be followed in the individual fluid circuits without having to consider any dependencies or influences between the fluid circuits. In contrast to the embodiment of Figure 2B The fluid handling element 110 of this embodiment requires significantly less axial installation space compared to the embodiment of the application. This is due to the shape of the outer rotor. The stator is arranged inside the rotor and the associated running wheel also lies radially outside the rotor. This significantly increases the outer diameter of this embodiment of the fluid handling element, whereby a higher overall running smoothness and greater resistance to pressure waves can be provided. On the other hand, the internal stator can be configured to be smaller, thus reducing manufacturing costs. In another embodiment, it is also conceivable to implement an outer rotor arrangement with only one stator and only one associated rotor.

[0115] In order to improve the functionality of the device 100, an insulator (not shown) can be arranged between the first rotor 314A and the fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. Similarly, an insulator (not shown) can be arranged between the second rotor 314B and the fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. For example, a ferrite filling is suitable for this.

[0116] Figure 3 A longitudinal sectional view of a fluid handling element 110A of a device 100 according to the application is shown. A component 210A in the form of a stator for generating a controllable variable magnetic field is arranged in a first housing section (not shown). Separated from the contour wall (not shown) and thus in an adjacent second housing section 300 (not shown), a component 310A in the form of a rotor 314 configured to be movable by a magnetic field is arranged. The rotor 314 is surrounded in the radial direction by an insulator (not shown). The rotor 314 also comprises two bearings 313 configured to accommodate a rotor axis. A running wheel 340 for radial outflow of fluid is located in the lower section of the rotor 314.

[0117] In the perspective view, below the runner wheel 340 is a runner wheel housing 342. The runner wheel housing 342 shows a fluid inlet opening 344 which is arranged centrally in a base piece of the runner wheel housing 342. In addition, the runner wheel housing 342 comprises a fluid outflow opening 346 which is arranged in a side wall. Due to the rotation of the runner wheel 340 in radial direction, fluid flows via the fluid inlet port 344 into the runner wheel housing 342 and via the fluid outlet port 346 out. This results in a pumping action of the fluid handling element 110A.

[0118] Figure 4 A detailed longitudinal section of a further fluid handling element 110B of the device 100 according to the present application is shown. The device 100 comprises a first housing section 200 and a second housing section 300, wherein the first housing section 200 and the second housing section 300 are configured to be adjacent to each other by a fluid impermeable contour wall 150. The contour wall 150 is also an outer wall of the second housing section 300, whereby the outer wall is identical to the side of the second housing section 300 which is oriented towards the first housing section 200.

[0119] The contour wall 150 comprises a protrusion 152 on the side facing the first housing section 200. The protrusion 152 is surrounded by the means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field 210B in the form of a stator and the protrusion 152 protrudes completely through the interior of the stator, almost completely filling it.

[0120] Furthermore, an electrical control unit 220 for controlling the device 100 is located within the first housing section 200 and is arranged above the means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field 210B. The means for generating a controllably variable magnetic field 210B and the electrical control unit 220 for controlling the device 100 are enclosed by the first cover element 202 and are protected from external influences, such as dust, moisture or mechanical effects.

[0121] Within the second housing section 300, which is configured to carry a fluid, a member 310B is arranged, which is movable by the generated magnetic field. The member 310B, which is movable by the generated magnetic field, comprises a rotor 314 with associated magnets. The rotor 314 is precisely inserted into the protrusion 152 of the profiled wall 150, which ensures a precise alignment between the rotor 314 and the stator. The rotor 314 is caused to rotate by the stator, whereby the member 310B, which is movable by the magnetic field, can be caused to rotate and thus can be controlled by the stator. In order to improve the function of the rotor-stator arrangement, an insulator (not shown) is arranged between the rotor 314 and the protrusion 152 in radial direction. For example, a ferrite filling is suitable for this. A switching element 330 is arranged below the rotor 314. The switching element can be configured as a rotary slide, whereby the fluid can be diverted depending on the specific position of the rotary slide. The diversion of the fluid allows a variety of port and switching patterns within the device 100. This makes the device 100 or the fluid handling element 110B suitable for different vehicles and the corresponding required functions. A port 320B is arranged laterally to the switching element 330, which is configured for the inflow and / or outflow of the fluid. The fluid handling element 110B comprises a rotor axis 312B, relative to which the member 310B, which is movable by the magnetic field, the rotor 314 and the switching element 330 are arranged rotationally symmetrically.

[0122] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a wet-running gear box 350 of the device 100 according to the present application is shown. The wet-running gear box 350 comprises a drive element 352, which receives the torque of the rotor. The torque causes a drive worm 354 to rotate via the drive element 352. Laterally arranged gears 356 couple associated gear stages 358. A rotary slide opening 359 is located directly at the gear stage 358. In the assembled state, the output element of a rotary slide (not shown) protrudes through the rotary slide opening 359 and directly engages the gear stage 358 in the wet-running gear box 350. This allows the precise position of the switching element 330 to be controlled, which is configured as a rotary slide. Due to the general self-locking of the wet-running gear box 350, no force (magnetic or electrical) is required to keep the rotary slide in place. This brings considerable advantages, for example, for proportional operation. With this wet-running gear box 350, any number of gear stages 358 can be coupled in order to ultimately determine the position of the coupled switching element 330 based on the stator controlled by the electrical control unit 220. The wet gear box 350 is arranged directly in the fluid and thus in the second housing section 300. This means that no dynamic seal is required. The necessary lubrication of the wet-running gear box 350 is carried out directly via the cooling fluid, and the heat losses due to friction are directly dissipated into the cooling fluid.

[0123] Figures 6A to 6GSeveral sketches of a double rotary slide valve arrangement 360 of the device 100 according to the present invention are shown. A simple rotary slide valve arrangement comprises so-called 2x90° deflections. These 2x90° deflections comprise the disadvantage that the channels cannot be connected to each other across two different planes. The double rotary slide valve arrangement 360 according to the present invention comprises a first layer 360A and a second layer 360B. The advantage of this double rotary slide valve arrangement 360 is that two rotary slide valves can be operated simultaneously with only one rotary slide valve arrangement. This saves additional fluid handling elements 110B or additional rotary slide valves that have to be operated with additional stator-rotor arrangements.

[0124] Figure 6A A sketch of a rotary slide valve wall 363 of the double rotary slide valve arrangement 360 is shown. The rotary slide valve wall 363 is part of the housing that accommodates the rotary slide valve - in this embodiment with an upper channel connection element 364 and a lower channel connection element 365. The rotary valve wall 363 comprises a plurality of inlet and outlet openings 362A and 362B arranged in a first plane 360A or a second plane 360B. Here, only one upper inlet and outlet opening 362A is located on the upper first plane 360A, while three lower inlet and outlet openings 362B are located on the lower second plane 360B. The inlet and outlet openings 362A and 362B are arranged at a distance of 90° from each other around the entire circumference of the rotary valve wall 363.

[0125] Figure 6B is a sketch of the double rotary slide valve arrangement 360. The rotary slide valve wall 363 comprises an upper first layer 360A with upper inlet and outlet openings 362A and a lower second layer 360B with a total of three lower inlet and outlet openings 362B. Within the rotary slide valve wall 363 there are an upper channel connection element 364 and a lower channel connection element 365. Both channel connection elements 364, 365 are arranged rotatable with respect to the rotary slide valve wall 363. However, the upper channel connection element 364 and the lower channel connection element 365 cannot be rotated with respect to each other. Thus, they are configured as a common channel connection element.

[0126] The upper channel connection element 364 is configured as a T-shape with a total of three channel arms in a plan view. Two of the three channel arms are located in the first plane 360A and one of the three channel arms extends into the second plane 360B. With this arrangement, the upper channel connection element 364 can be aligned with respect to the rotary valve wall 363 such that the upper inlet and outlet openings 362A of the first plane 360A are connected with the lower inlet and outlet openings 362B. Thus, fluid can flow into the double rotary slide valve arrangement 360 via the upper inflow and outflow openings 362A and out of the lower inflow and outflow openings 362B and vice versa. One of the three channel arms thus remains unused and blind in the rotary slide valve wall 363 without inflow and outflow openings / unreasonable (blindly) End.

[0127] Similar to the upper channel connection element 364, the lower channel connection element 365 is configured in plan view as a T shape with a total of three channel arms. In comparison to the upper channel connection element 364, all three channel arms are located in one plane (second plane 360B). In the present arrangement, two of the three channel arms connect the two lower inlet and outlet openings 362B at an angle of 90°. The third channel arm remains unused and ends blind at the rotary slide wall 363 without a flow in and out opening.

[0128] Figure 6C A double rotary slide arrangement 360 according to Figure 6B is shown in different arrangements. The rotary slide wall 363 comprises an upper first layer 360A with upper inlet and outlet openings 362A and a lower second layer 360B with a total of three lower inlet and outlet openings 362B. Within the rotary slide wall 363 there is an upper channel connection element 364 and a lower channel connection element 365. The upper channel connection element 364 is configured in plan view as a T shape with three channel arms, wherein two of the three channel arms are located in the first plane 360A and one of the three channel arms extends into the second plane 360B. Similar to the upper channel connection element 364, the lower channel connection element 365 is configured in plan view as a T shape with three channel arms. In comparison to the upper channel connection element 364, all three channel arms are located in one plane (second plane 360B).

[0129] In the present arrangement, the two channel connection elements 364, 365 are arranged in a 90° rotational arrangement with respect to the rotary slide wall 363 in comparison to the arrangement in Figure 6B

[0130] With this arrangement, the upper channel connection element 364 is oriented with respect to the rotary slide wall 363 such that the upper flow in and out openings 362A of the first layer 360A are connected with another lower flow in and out opening 362B, i.e. with the flow in and out opening 362B opposite to the upper flow in and out openings 362A. Thus, fluid can flow into the double rotary slide arrangement 360 via the upper flow in and out openings 362A and out of another lower flow in and out opening 362B and vice versa. The third channel arm remains unused here and ends blind at the rotary slide wall 363 without a flow in and out opening.

[0131] ​In this arrangement, the lower channel connection element 365 is oriented relative to the rotating slide valve wall 363 such that the other two lower inflow and outflow openings 362B are connected to each other at an angle of 180°. Thus, fluid can flow into the double rotating slide valve arrangement 360 via the lower inflow and outflow openings 362B and out of the opposite lower inflow and outflow openings 362B and vice versa. The third channel arm remains unused and ends blind at the rotating slide valve wall 363 without inflow and outflow openings.

[0132] Figure 6D A further embodiment of a double rotating slide valve arrangement 360 according to the present application is shown. This double rotating slide valve arrangement 360 also comprises a first layer 360A and a second layer 360B. This embodiment can also run two rotating slides with only one rotating slide valve arrangement at the same time. This also saves additional fluid handling elements 110B or additional rotating slide valves that have to be operated with additional stator-rotor arrangements.

[0133] This double rotating slide valve arrangement 360 comprises the same rotating slide valve wall 363 as in the previous figures. The rotating slide valve wall 363 comprises a plurality of inlet and outlet openings 362A, 362B, of which only one upper inlet and outlet opening 362A is located on the upper first plane 360A, while three lower inlet and outlet openings 362B are located on the lower second plane 360B. The inflow and outflow openings 362A, 362B are arranged around the entire circumference of the rotating slide valve wall 363 at a distance of 90° from each other.

[0134] Within the rotating slide valve wall 363 there is a setting element 366, which is arranged to rotate around the central axis 361. The setting element 366 separates the inner space into a first partial space and a second partial space, which inner space is defined by the rotating slide valve wall 363 in the radial direction and by the two end faces that axially limit the rotating slide valve wall 363. This separation is achieved by several surfaces, which due to their specific arrangement fulfill the function of Figure 6B and Figure 6CThe same functionality as in the embodiment of the double rotary valve arrangement 360 is achieved by the setting element 366. The setting element 366 comprises a longitudinal plane 367 arranged parallel to but spaced apart from the central axis 361. The degree of spacing of the longitudinal plane 367 from the central axis 361 depends on the diameter of the upper inflow and outflow opening 362A and the lower inflow and outflow opening 362B, since the inflow and outflow of fluid through the upper inflow and outflow opening 362A and the lower inflow and outflow opening 362B should take place without restrictions. The longitudinal plane 367 must therefore comprise a distance from the central axis 361 which approximately corresponds to half the diameter of the respective inflow and outflow opening 362A, 362B. The longitudinal plane 367 is continuous with an outer flat plane 368 at the front end of the rotary valve wall 363, wherein the rotary valve wall 363 at its front end outwardly delimits a first plane 360A of the double rotary valve arrangement 360 having the outer flat plane 368. The outer flat plane 368 is arranged perpendicular to the central axis 361 and directly adjacent to the rotary valve wall 363 in radial direction. Furthermore, the setting element 366 comprises an inclined plane 369 which allows fluid communication at least between the upper inflow and outflow opening 362A and the lower inflow and outflow opening 362B which is offset by 90°. The inclined plane 369 intersects the central axis 361 and the longitudinal plane 367. Thus, a first partial space is delimited by a front plane which axially limits the rotary valve wall 363 and comprises the outer flat plane 368, the inclined plane 369 and the longitudinal plane 367. The first partial space can be said to be at least mostly located above the setting element 366 when the setting element 366 is brought into the double rotary valve arrangement 360. The first partial space can be said to be at least mostly located above the setting element 366 when the setting element 366 is brought into the double rotary valve arrangement 360. Thus, a second partial space is at least partially located below the outer flat plane 368 and the inclined plane 369.

[0135] The setting element 366 can be aligned in the rotary valve wall 363 such that the upper inflow and outflow opening 362A and the lower inflow and outflow opening 362B of the first layer 360A are fluidly connected. Thus, fluid is able to flow into the double rotary valve arrangement 360 through the upper inflow and outflow opening 362A and out of the lower inflow and outflow opening 362B and vice versa. In other words, fluid is able to change planes 360A, 360B as it flows through the first partial space.

[0136] In this arrangement of the setting element 366, the second partial space below the setting element 366 fluidly connects the two lower inlet and outlet ports 362B at a 90° angle. Thus, from the time the fluid enters the double rotary valve arrangement 360, the fluid remains in the second plane 360B, turned by 90°, until it exits the double rotary valve arrangement 360.

[0137] Figure 6E It is shown Figure 6DThe double rotary spool arrangement 360 is shown in different configurations in the middle. The rotary spool wall 363 comprises an upper first layer 360A with upper inlet and outlet ports 362A and a lower second layer 360B with a total of three lower inlet and outlet ports 362B. Within the rotary spool wall 363 a setting element 366 is arranged. In this arrangement, the setting element 366 is arranged in a 90° rotational arrangement with respect to the rotary spool wall 363 compared to the arrangement shown in Figure 6D

[0138] The setting element 366 is oriented in the rotary spool wall 363 such that the upper inflow and outflow openings 362A of the first layer 360A are fluidly connected to another lower inflow and outflow opening 362B opposite the upper inflow and outflow openings 362A. Thus, fluid can flow into the double rotary spool arrangement 360 via the upper inlet and outlet openings 362A and out of the other lower inlet and outlet openings 362B and vice versa.

[0139] In this arrangement of the setting element 366, the other two lower inlet and outlet ports 362B arranged opposite to each other are fluidly connected to each other by a second portion of space below the setting element 366. Compared to the arrangement shown in Figure 6D Fluid flows into and out of the double rotary spool arrangement 360 in the same direction. Also, from the time the fluid flows into the double rotary spool arrangement 360 until it flows out of the double rotary spool arrangement 360, the fluid remains in the second plane 360B.

[0140] Figure 6F The setting element 366 is shown in a perspective view with a central axis 361, an inclined plane 369, a longitudinal plane 367 and a flat plane 368. Furthermore, the setting element 366 comprises a short inflow plane 369A which flattens the inclined plane 369 in the upper part. The central axis 361 has an upper part which is suitable for being connected to a wet-running gear box (not shown) and a lower part which is suitable for supporting the setting element 366.

[0141] Figure 6G The setting element 366 according to Figure 6F is shown in an alternative perspective view.

[0142] This setting element 366 is typically manufactured by injection molding. It is less complex in design than e.g. a branched channel arrangement. The injection mold can be configured as a simple “on / off” mold, eliminating the need for additional side sliders. This reduces the design, maintenance and manufacturing costs of the setting element 366.

[0143] Figure 7 ​A disassembly view of a device 100 for processing a fluid according to another embodiment is shown. The device 100 comprises a first housing section 200 and a second housing section 300, wherein the first housing section 200 and the second housing section 300 are configured to be adjacent to each other by a fluid impermeable contour wall 150. The contour wall 150 is configured as a single piece. In this embodiment, the contour wall 150 is also an outer wall of the second housing section 300, whereby the outer wall is identical to the side of the second housing section 300 which is oriented towards the first housing section 200.

[0144] The contour wall 150 comprises cylindrical protrusions 152 on the side which is oriented towards the first housing section 200. Members 210A, 210B, 210C in the form of stators for generating a controllably variable magnetic field are applied to these cylindrical protrusions 152. The cylindrical protrusions 152 each protrude into and completely fill the inner space of each arranged stator. In this embodiment, the members 210A, 210B, 210C, 210D for generating a controllably variable magnetic field are configured as stators of a stepper motor.

[0145] On the side of the contour wall 150 which is oriented towards the second housing section 300 (not shown), there are members 310A, 310B, 310C which are configured to be movable by the generated magnetic field of the respective associated member 210A, 210B, 210C for generating a controllably variable magnetic field. The members 310A, 310B, 310C which are configured to be movable by the generated magnetic field each comprise a rotor with an associated magnet (not shown). The rotor is set in rotation by the stator, whereby the members 310A, 310B, 310C which are configured to be movable by the magnetic field are controllable by the stator. The members 310A, 310B, 310C which are movable by the generated magnetic field are each associated with a member for conveying and / or controlling a fluid. Thus, the stator of the member 210B for generating a controllably variable magnetic field is assigned to a switching element 330 which is configured as a rotary slide. Due to the rotary slide, different installation spaces and different requirements can be realized in each case with different switching strategies. The fluid can be diverted and different ports and switching patterns can be combined.

[0146] A runner wheel 340 (not shown) is associated with each of the stators of the members 210A, 210C for generating a controllably variable magnetic field. The runner wheel 340 is configured as an impeller and is directly integrated into a fluid circuit within the second housing section 300. Torque is generated by the stator which is coupled to the rotor via a magnetic coupling, resulting in the rotation of the impeller. Thus, the impeller can be used as a pump for the respective associated fluid circuit.

[0147] The rotors associated with the members 310A, 310B, 310C, which are configured to be movable by a magnetic field, are each placed in the cylindrical protrusion 152 for receiving the rotors located in the second housing section 300. In other words, the cylindrical protrusion 152 enables an exact arrangement of the stators in the first housing section 200 and an exact arrangement of the rotors in the second housing section 300, thus enabling an exact allocation of the rotors and stators to each other. The cylindrical protrusion 152 thus fulfills a dual function, on the one hand allocating the rotors to the stators and on the other hand providing a fluid-tight separation between the first housing section 200 and the second housing section 300, which can be described as a hydraulic decoupling.

[0148] The combination of members 210A, 210B, 210C in the form of stators for generating a controllably variable magnetic field, which are arranged in the dry first housing section 200, the respective associated members 310A, 310B, 310C, which are movable by the generated magnetic field, each describe a fluid handling element 110A, 110B, 110C, wherein the members 310A, 310B, 310C are arranged in the wet second housing section 300 and are operable by magnetic coupling across the contour wall 152.

[0149] A member 210D in the form of a stepper motor for generating a controllably variable magnetic field is associated with the dry first housing section 200. In addition, a member, which is movable by the generated magnetic field, is associated, which member is configured in the form of an expansion valve 370. In contrast to the fluid handling elements 110A, 110B, 110C described above, there is no continuous fluid-impermeable contour wall between the member 210D for generating a controllably variable magnetic field and the member, which is movable by the generated magnetic field. The latter is integrated into the housing of the expansion valve 370, and the expansion valve 370 is arranged only parallel to the other fluid handling elements 110A, 110B, 110C on the housing sections of the device, wherein the stepper motor is integrated into the dry area of the first housing section 200. A total of four lateral holding members 304 are arranged to stabilize the expansion valve 370 in the device 100.

[0150] In summary, the device 100 in this embodiment has a first fluid handling element 110A configured as a fluid pump. Furthermore, the device 100 comprises a second fluid handling element 110C, which also comprises a fluid pump. This allows to run two separate fluid circuits or to deliver fluid from two separate fluid circuits. Furthermore, the device 100 comprises a third fluid handling element 110B, which comprises a fluid valve or switch element 330. The fluid valve is configured with a rotary slide valve and the rotary slide valve makes the device 100 suitable for different vehicles. Different installation spaces and different requirements of the vehicle can be implemented, for example by diverting the fluid. By switching the rotary slide valve, it is possible to switch from a parallel fluid circuit to a serial fluid circuit. The expansion valve 370 is configured to run the heat exchanger 380. The heat exchanger 380 is fixed laterally to the second housing section 300 by means of flanges 382.

[0151] All fluid handling elements 110A, 110B, 110C are arranged on the device 100 such that the rotor axes (not shown) of the fluid handling elements 110A, 110B, 110C are arranged parallel to each other. This greatly simplifies the production and assembly of the entire device 100, where additional individual components can be easily tested and replaced.

[0152] A plurality of ports 320A, 320B, 320C, 320D is arranged on the second housing section 300 for fluid inflow and outflow. These ports serve as a customer interface and can be changed in terms of hose diameter and respective position as required. The present embodiment comprises a total of four ports 320A, 320B, 320C, 320D, which laterally discharge or introduce fluid from / to the second housing section 300. The port 320D is used to connect with the heat exchanger 380.

[0153] The device 100 comprises an electrical control unit 220, which is also arranged in the dry first housing section 200. The electrical control unit 220 is generally configured as a flat object, for example for a control circuit board or the like. The control unit 220 is arranged above the members 210A, 210B, 210C, 210D formed as stators for generating a controllable variable magnetic field. The electrical control unit 220 is necessary for controlling the device 100. For example, the control unit 220 can also be arranged between the individual stators within the first housing section 200, but in close proximity to the fluid-impermeable contour wall 150. This would be advantageous, since the electrical control unit 220 can be additionally cooled without the risk of direct contact with the fluid. Furthermore, heating can be provided with the heat losses generated during operation of the electrical control unit 220. Alternatively, the electrical control unit 220 can also be arranged outside the device 100. This applies, for example, to an external customer-specific control unit connected to the device 100 via an interface, for example via a connector port 204.

[0154] The first housing section 200 comprises a removable first cover element 202. This first cover element 202 simplifies access to all electronics arranged within the first housing section 200. Thus, the dry area and the components of the electronics in the device 100 can be directly accessed for maintenance, inspection or even testing purposes. For example, the cover element 202 can be connected to the second housing section 300 by means of a threaded connection. However, alternatively, a clamp or snap connection is equally conceivable. In addition, the first cover element 202 comprises a connector port 204 to be used as an additional interface for a customer. For example, the device 100 can be connected and operated by means of a customer's own control unit.

[0155] The second housing section 300 therefore also has a removable second cover element 302. This second cover element 302 can also be removed for maintenance purposes, allowing direct access to all wet-running components of the device 100. For example, defective components can also be replaced without the entire device 100 having to be removed directly from the associated vehicle. The second cover element 302 has a total of three bearings 303, which are configured to receive the respective members 310A, 310B, 310C, which can be moved by the generated magnetic field. For example, the lower part of the central axis 361 (not shown) of the setting element 366 (not shown) can be received by the associated bearings 303 in the second cover element 302.

[0156] All features explained and shown in connection with the various embodiments of the present application can be provided in different combinations in the subject matter according to the present application in order to simultaneously achieve their advantageous effects. The scope of protection of the present application is given by the claims and is not restricted to the features explained in the description or shown in the drawings.

[0157] List of reference signs

[0158] 100 device

[0159] 110 fluid handling element

[0160] 150 contour wall

[0161] 152 cylindrical protrusion

[0162] 200 first housing section

[0163] 202 first cover element

[0164] 204 connector port

[0165] 210 means for generating a controllable variable magnetic field

[0166] 220 control unit

[0167] 300 second housing section

[0168] 302 second cover element

[0169] 303 bearing

[0170] 304 holding means

[0171] 310 magnetic field movable means

[0172] 310-1 first means movable by a magnetic field

[0173] 310-2 second means movable by a magnetic field

[0174] 312 rotor axis

[0175] 313 bearing position

[0176] 314 rotor

[0177] 314A first rotor

[0178] 314B second rotor

[0179] 316 rotor shaft

[0180] 317 hollow rotor shaft

[0181] 320 port

[0182] 330 switching element

[0183] 340 running wheel

[0184] 340A first running wheel

[0185] 340B second running wheel

[0186] 342 runner housing

[0187] 344 fluid inlet port

[0188] 346 fluid outlet port

[0189] 348 separating element

[0190] 349 axial discharge opening

[0191] 350 wet-running gearbox

[0192] 352 drive element

[0193] 354 drive worm

[0194] 356 gearwheel

[0195] 358 gearwheel stage

[0196] 359 rotary vane opening

[0197] 360 double rotary slide arrangement

[0198] 360A first layer

[0199] 360B second layer

[0200] 361 central axis

[0201] 362A upper inlet and outlet opening

[0202] 362B lower inlet and outlet opening

[0203] 363 rotary slide wall

[0204] 364 upper channel connection element

[0205] 365 lower channel connection element

[0206] 366 setting element

[0207] 367 longitudinal plane

[0208] 368 outer flat plane

[0209] 369 inclined plane

[0210] 369 short inflow plane

[0211] 370 expansion valve

[0212] 380 heat exchanger

[0213] 382 flange

Claims

1. An apparatus (100) for processing a fluid in an at least partially electrically powered vehicle, having: a rotary slide valve arrangement (360) comprising: a setting element (366) arranged rotatably about a center axis (361), and a rotary slide valve wall (363), wherein the setting element (366) is arranged within the rotary slide valve wall (363) and rotatable relative to the rotary slide valve wall (363), wherein the rotary slide valve wall (363) comprises inlet and outlet openings (362A, 362B) arranged in a first plane (360A) and a second plane (360B), wherein, in the first plane (360A), one upper inlet and outlet opening (362A) is arranged, wherein, in the second plane (360B), three lower inlet and outlet openings (362B) are arranged, wherein the inlet and outlet openings (362A, 362B) are each arranged at a distance of 90° from each other in a circumferential direction of the rotary slide valve wall (363), wherein the setting element (366) is configured to divide an inner space into a first partial space and a second partial space, the inner space being defined by the rotary slide valve wall (363) in radial direction and by two end faces axially delimiting the rotary slide valve wall (363), wherein the setting element (366) comprises a longitudinal plane (367) arranged parallel to the center axis (361) but spaced apart therefrom and an inclined plane (369) allowing a fluid communication at least between the upper inlet and outlet opening (362A) and the lower inlet and outlet openings (362B) offset by 90°.

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal plane (367) is spaced apart from the center axis (361) by one half of a diameter of the respective inlet and outlet openings (362A, 362B).

3. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the setting element (366) is alignable within the rotary slide valve wall (363) such that the upper inlet and outlet opening (362A) of the first plane (360A) is fluidically connected to the lower inlet and outlet openings (362B) of the second plane (360B).

4. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, having: an apparatus housing comprising a first housing section (200) and a second housing section (300), wherein the first housing section (200) and the second housing section (300) are configured to be adjacent to each other by a fluid-impermeable contour wall (150), wherein the contour wall (150) comprises a side oriented towards the first housing section (200) and a side oriented towards the second housing section (300), at least one fluid processing element, wherein the fluid handling element comprises means for generating a controllable variable magnetic field and arranged in the first housing section (200) and means movable by the generated magnetic field and arranged in the second housing section (300).

5. The apparatus (100) according to claim 4, wherein the means for generating a controllable variable magnetic field comprises a stator and the rotary slide valve arrangement (360) comprises a rotor.

6. The apparatus (100) according to claim 5, wherein the contour wall (150) comprises a cylindrical protrusion (152) filling at least an interior of the stator arranged in the first housing section (200).

7. The apparatus (100) according to claim 6, wherein the cylindrical protrusion (152) is configured to receive the rotor arranged in the second housing section (300).

8. The apparatus (100) according to claim 5, wherein the second housing section (300) is configured to carry a fluid and comprises at least one port (320A, 320B, 320C, 320D) for fluid inflow and / or outflow.

9. The apparatus (100) according to claim 4, wherein the apparatus (100) comprises a second fluid handling element comprising a fluid pump.

10. The apparatus (100) according to claim 5, wherein rotor axes (312A, 312B, 312C) of the fluid handling elements are arranged parallel to each other.

11. The apparatus (100) according to claim 8, wherein the port (320A, 320B, 320C, 320D) for fluid inflow and / or outflow is arranged in a plane orthogonal to an orientation of the rotor axes (312A, 312B, 312C) of the fluid handling elements.

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