Component housing unit and vehicle thermal management system comprising a component housing unit

Abstract

Component housing unit (1) for a vehicle thermal management system (S) and vehicle thermal management system (S) comprising the component housing unit (1). The component housing unit (1) is configured for attachment to an outer surface (2a) of an expansion tank (2) having an inner surface (2b) defining an inner volume (2c). The component housing unit (1) is configured for connection to a first thermal control circuit (3a) and a second thermal control circuit (3b) and for connecting the inner volume (2c) of the expansion tank (2) to the first thermal control circuit (3a) and the second thermal control circuit (3b), respectively. The component housing unit (1) comprises a first component interface (4a) for direct attachment of a first system component (5a) connected to the first thermal control circuit (3a) and a second component interface (4b) for direct attachment of a second system component (5b) connected to the second thermal control circuit (3b).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a component housing unit for a vehicle thermal management system. The component housing unit is configured to attach to the outer surface of an expansion tank having an inner surface defining an internal volume. This disclosure also relates to a vehicle thermal management system including the component housing unit, an expansion tank, a first thermal control loop, and a second thermal control loop. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle thermal management systems are widely used in today's vehicles to control the temperature ranges of various vehicle units, such as power electronics units and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, as well as other types of vehicle units or components that are part of the vehicle's structure. In new energy vehicles, such as hybrid or electric vehicles (including battery electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles), temperature control is required for the high-voltage battery components and power electronics components that supply energy to the motor. Temperature control may depend on factors such as the vehicle's driving conditions, ambient temperature, and the type of components used in the vehicle system. Vehicle thermal management is configured to cool or heat the corresponding vehicle systems.

[0003] For new energy vehicles, thermal management systems need to be redesigned compared to those used in traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines. These systems are typically complex in design and construction, involving numerous components that occupy space within the vehicle and increase its structural weight. This leads to component packaging and weight issues, and further results in thermal management systems often being expensive and structurally inflexible.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for an improved thermal management system that is simpler in design and construction and has fewer components compared to the systems currently in use. Furthermore, such a system should be designed to have reduced weight and minimize its packaging issues. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One object of this disclosure is to provide a component housing unit for a vehicle thermal management system and a vehicle thermal management system that avoid the aforementioned problems. This object is achieved at least in part by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims cover further improvements to the component housing unit and the vehicle thermal management system.

[0006] This disclosure relates to a component housing unit for a vehicle thermal management system. The component housing unit is configured to attach to the outer surface of an expansion tank having an inner surface defining an internal volume. The component housing unit is configured to connect to a first thermal control circuit and a second thermal control circuit, and is configured to connect the internal volume of the expansion tank to the first thermal control circuit and the second thermal control circuit, respectively. The component housing unit includes a first component interface and a second component interface, the first component interface being configured to directly attach to a first system component connected to the first thermal control circuit, and the second component interface being configured to directly attach to a second system component connected to the second thermal control circuit.

[0007] The advantage of these features is that, through the design and construction of the component housing unit, the thermal management system can be manufactured in a compact design with a lighter weight compared to conventional systems. By attaching system components to component interfaces, the number of system components occupying vehicle space is reduced, making it possible to manufacture these systems with less complex designs and constructions. The component housing unit thus simplifies component packaging and provides a flexible and less expensive system construction. This solution is simpler in design and has fewer components, resulting in a lighter weight compared to currently used systems. The component housing simplifies the integration of different components with each other, and the efficient integration of system components is increasingly important for simplifying the removal, attachment, and replacement of system components when needed.

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the component housing unit includes a first flow channel connected to a first component interface and a second flow channel connected to a second component interface. This configuration of the component housing unit allows system components to be integrated into corresponding thermal control loops in a highly efficient manner by connecting to the flow channels. System components can be integrated into thermal control loops by attaching to the component interfaces of the component housing unit.

[0009] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the first flow channel and the second flow channel are arranged separately from each other within the component housing unit. If desired, the separately arranged flow channels allow the heat transfer fluid flows in the respective thermal control loops to be relatively separated from each other.

[0010] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a first flow channel includes a first tank fluid port, and a second flow channel includes a second tank fluid port. The first tank fluid port is configured to connect the first flow channel to the internal volume of the expansion tank via a first inlet / outlet flow opening of the expansion tank, and the second tank fluid port is configured to connect the second flow channel to the internal volume of the expansion tank via a second inlet / outlet flow opening of the expansion tank. The flow channels efficiently distribute heat transfer fluid within the component housing unit, allowing the heat transfer fluid to expand into and out of the expansion tank through the configuration of the tank fluid port and the inlet / outlet flow opening when needed.

[0011] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a first component interface is configured to attach a first circulating pump to a component housing unit, and a second component interface is configured to attach a second circulating pump to the component housing unit. The circulating pumps can be efficiently integrated into the system by connecting to the component interfaces, enabling a compact and weight-reduced system design. The circulating pumps distribute heat transfer fluid in a corresponding thermal control loop, and direct attachment of the circulating pumps to the component housing unit provides a simple solution.

[0012] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the component housing unit includes a first housing fluid port and a second housing fluid port. The first housing fluid port is configured to connect the component housing unit to a first thermal control loop and / or a second thermal control loop, and the second housing fluid port is configured to connect the component housing unit to a second thermal control loop and / or the first thermal control loop. A first flow channel extends between the first housing fluid port and a first component interface, and a second flow channel extends between the second housing fluid port and the second component interface. The flow channels efficiently distribute heat transfer fluid within the component housing unit, allowing the heat transfer fluid to expand from the flow channels in the component housing unit into an expansion tank and flow out of the expansion tank when needed.

[0013] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the component housing unit includes a valve unit. Integrating the valve unit within the component housing unit simplifies the system construction, thereby reducing weight and package size. The valve unit ensures efficient distribution of heat transfer fluid to the corresponding thermal control loop, and the valve unit can be positioned differently depending on the system requirements for heat transfer fluid distribution.

[0014] According to one aspect of this disclosure, when the valve unit is in a first position, the thermal control loops are arranged in parallel, and when the valve unit is in a second position, the thermal control loops are arranged in series. This configuration ensures that the heat transfer fluid is efficiently distributed to the corresponding thermal control loop. In the first position, the valve unit is arranged to distribute the heat transfer fluid to the control loops in parallel, and when the thermal control loops are arranged in parallel, the heat transfer fluid flow in the first thermal control loop is separate from the heat transfer fluid flow in the second thermal control loop. In the second position, the valve unit is arranged to distribute the heat transfer fluid to the control loops in series, and when the thermal control loops are arranged in series, the heat transfer fluid flow in the first thermal control loop is connected to the heat transfer fluid flow in the second thermal control loop.

[0015] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the valve unit includes a valve housing formed within a component housing unit, and a first valve inlet fluid port and a second valve inlet fluid port connected to the valve housing. The first valve inlet fluid port is configured to connect the valve unit to a first thermal control loop, and the second inlet fluid port is configured to connect the valve unit to a second thermal control loop. The valve housing is also connected to the first and second housing fluid ports. The valve unit is configured to connect the first valve inlet fluid port to a first flow channel and / or a second flow channel, and to connect the second valve inlet fluid port to the second flow channel and / or the first flow channel. The valve housing formed within the component housing unit provides a compact system design while efficiently distributing heat transfer fluid to the respective thermal control loops.

[0016] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the first flow channel includes a first air separator configured to guide separated air to the expansion tank, and / or, the second flow channel includes a second air separator configured to guide separated air to the expansion tank. Integrating the air separators into the component housing unit ensures an efficient and compact design of the system, reducing the number of individual components used.

[0017] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the component housing unit includes one or more additional component interfaces configured for direct attachment of one or more corresponding additional system components. These additional component interfaces allow for the addition of additional system components to the system, enabling efficient system designs with reduced weight and size.

[0018] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the component housing unit is configured for connection to one or more additional thermal control loops, wherein the component housing unit is configured to connect the internal volume of the expansion tank to the one or more additional thermal control loops. The integration of additional thermal control loops, through the simple integration of the component housing unit, provides flexibility in system configuration.

[0019] This disclosure also relates to a vehicle thermal management system including the component housing unit as described above. The system further includes an expansion tank, a first thermal control circuit, a second thermal control circuit, a first system component, and a second system component. The expansion tank is arranged to have an outer surface and an inner surface defining an internal volume. The component housing unit is attached to the outer surface of the expansion tank, and the first and second thermal control circuits are connected to the component housing unit. The component housing unit connects the internal volume of the expansion tank to the first and second thermal control circuits, respectively. The component housing unit includes a first component interface and a second component interface. The first system component is connected to the first thermal control circuit, and the second system component is connected to the second thermal control circuit, wherein the first system component is directly attached to the first component interface, and the second system component is directly attached to the second component interface.

[0020] The advantage of these features is that, through the design and construction of the component housing units and expansion tank, the thermal management system can be manufactured with a compact design that is significantly lighter than conventional systems. By attaching system components to component interfaces, the number of system components occupying vehicle space is reduced, enabling the system to be manufactured with a simple design and construction. The component housing units also simplify component packaging and provide a flexible and less expensive system construction. The component housing with component interfaces simplifies the integration of different system components with each other, where components can be easily removed, attached, and replaced when needed.

[0021] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the component housing unit includes a first flow channel connected to a first component interface and a second flow channel connected to a second component interface. The first flow channel includes a first tank fluid port, and the second flow channel includes a second tank fluid port, wherein the first tank fluid port connects the first flow channel to the internal volume of the expansion tank via a first inlet / outlet flow opening of the expansion tank, and wherein the second tank fluid port connects the second flow channel to the internal volume of the expansion tank via a second inlet / outlet flow opening of the expansion tank. The flow channels efficiently distribute heat transfer fluid within the component housing unit, allowing the heat transfer fluid to expand into and out of the expansion tank when needed.

[0022] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the component housing unit also includes a valve unit. The integration of the valve unit further simplifies the system construction, thereby reducing weight and size. The valve unit ensures efficient distribution of heat transfer fluid to the corresponding thermal control loop.

[0023] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a valve unit includes a valve housing formed within a component housing unit, and a first valve inlet fluid port and a second valve inlet fluid port are connected to the valve housing. The first valve inlet fluid port connects the valve unit to a first thermal control circuit, and the second inlet fluid port connects the valve unit to a second thermal control circuit. The valve housing is also connected to the first housing fluid port and the second housing fluid port. The valve unit connects the first valve inlet fluid port to a first flow channel and / or a second flow channel, and connects the second valve inlet fluid port to the second flow channel and / or the first flow channel.

[0024] According to another aspect of this disclosure, when the valve unit is in the first position, the thermal control loops are arranged in parallel, and when the valve unit is in the second position, the thermal control loops are arranged in series. The valve unit is arranged in the first position to distribute the heat transfer fluid in parallel to the control loops, and when the thermal control loops are arranged in parallel, the heat transfer fluid flow in the first thermal control loop and the heat transfer fluid flow in the second thermal control loop are separate from each other. The valve unit is arranged in the second position to distribute the heat transfer fluid in series to the control loops, and when the thermal control loops are arranged in series, the heat transfer fluid flow in the first thermal control loop and the heat transfer fluid flow in the second thermal control loop are connected.

[0025] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the component housing unit includes one or more additional component interfaces, and the system also includes corresponding one or more additional system components. The one or more additional system components are directly attached to the one or more additional component interfaces. The component interfaces simplify the integration of different system components with each other, and the attachment of system components to their corresponding component interfaces provides a compact and efficient system construction with a lighter weight compared to conventional systems.

[0026] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the system also includes one or more additional thermal control loops. The component housing unit connects the internal volume of the expansion tank to one or more additional thermal control loops. The integration of additional thermal control loops provides flexibility in system construction.

[0027] According to another aspect of this disclosure, system components are attached to their corresponding component interfaces in a removable manner. These component interfaces simplify the integration of different system components with each other, allowing components to be easily removed, attached, and replaced when needed. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which...

[0029] Figures 1a-1b The component housing unit and expansion tank according to this disclosure are schematically shown in front and rear perspective views.

[0030] Figure 2 The following perspective views schematically illustrate the component housing unit according to this disclosure.

[0031] Figures 3a-3b The previous cross-sectional view schematically showed the component housing unit and expansion tank according to this disclosure.

[0032] Figure 4 An embodiment of a vehicle thermal management system having a component housing unit and an expansion tank according to the present disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0033] Figure 5 An alternative embodiment of a vehicle thermal management system having a component housing unit and an expansion tank, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated schematically. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Various aspects of this disclosure will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in order to illustrate and not limit the disclosure, wherein similar reference numerals denote similar elements, and variations of the described aspects are not limited to the embodiments specifically shown, but are other variations that can be applied to the disclosure.

[0035] Figure 4 A schematic structure of a vehicle thermal management system S according to this disclosure is shown, wherein the system S is used in a vehicle and for controlling the temperature range of different vehicle units. The system S can also be used to control the temperature range of the vehicle's passenger compartment or similar structure. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle thermal management system has a dual thermal control loop configuration, comprising a first thermal control loop 3a and a second thermal control loop 3b. The first thermal control loop 3a and the second thermal control loop 3b are connected to the component housing unit 1, and the component housing unit 1 is connected to the expansion tank 2.

[0036] The vehicle thermal management system S controls the temperature range of the vehicle unit by means of a heat transfer fluid or coolant circulating in a first thermal control loop 3a and a second thermal control loop 3b, wherein the temperature range of each thermal control loop depends, for example, on the vehicle's driving conditions and variations in ambient temperature. The heat transfer fluid can be of any suitable type for vehicle applications.

[0037] exist Figure 4In the illustrated embodiment, a first thermal control loop 3a is connected to a first vehicle unit A, and a second thermal control loop 3b is connected to a second vehicle unit B. The first vehicle unit A may be, for example, a battery temperature regulation unit, and the second vehicle unit B may be, for example, a power electronics temperature regulation unit. For example, the battery temperature regulation unit may be used to control the temperature of one or more batteries containing related components used in the vehicle system. For example, the power electronics temperature regulation unit may be used to control the temperature of power electronic components (such as motors and other electronic components that are part of a power electronic system).

[0038] The thermal control loop components and parts can be of any conventional type for vehicle purposes, which will not be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that, depending on the design and construction of the vehicle and vehicle systems, system S can be used to heat or cool other types of vehicle units or parts besides those described above. It should be understood that the corresponding control loop can include any suitable number of components for controlling the temperature range and flow of the heat transfer fluid, such as, for example, heat exchangers, coolers, heaters, filters, air separators, connectors, fans, valves, circulation pumps, and / or any other components known in the art related to such a thermal system.

[0039] The system may also include a control unit for controlling system components, temperature ranges, and the flow of heat transfer fluids. A thermal control loop connects the component housing unit 1 to the vehicle unit or component via conduits, pipes, or other suitable connecting devices. The vehicle thermal management system S according to this disclosure is designed and constructed such that it is suitable for operation in different operating modes controlled by the control unit, wherein the heat transfer fluid is efficiently circulated to the vehicle unit or component.

[0040] Figure 2 A component housing unit 1 for a vehicle thermal management system S is schematically shown. For example... Figures 1a-1b As schematically shown in 3a-3b, component housing unit 1 is configured for attachment to the outer surface 2a of expansion tank 2. Expansion tank 2 has an inner surface 2b defining an internal volume 2c. Figure 4 As shown, component housing unit 1 is configured to connect to the first thermal control loop 3a and the second thermal control loop 3b via suitable connecting means described in further detail below, and component housing unit 1 is configured to connect the internal volume 2c of expansion tank 2 to the first thermal control loop 3a and the second thermal control loop 3b, respectively. Expansion tanks are typically used in vehicle thermal management systems to handle fluid expansion. Expansion tank 2 can have any suitable configuration for cooperating with the corresponding thermal control loop and allows the heat transfer fluid circulating in the system to expand into and out of expansion tank 2.

[0041] exist Figures 1a-1b In the embodiments shown in 3a-3b, the expansion tank 2 is made of a first tank section 2d and a second tank section 2e, which are connected by a suitable attachment device. The first tank section 2d is arranged to have a filling opening 2f for heat transfer fluid. The filling opening 2f may be provided with a lid or other suitable closing device, such as... Figures 1a-1b The expansion tank 2 is schematically illustrated. It can have other suitable constructions, and can alternatively be made of a single piece of material or of two or more connected segments. The expansion tank 2 can be made of any suitable material, such as plastic, composite, or metallic materials. The multiple segments forming the expansion tank 2 can be joined together, for example by gluing, welding, threading, or alternatively by other suitable fastening devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the internal volume 2c forms a single compartment for heat transfer fluid. However, it should be understood that, depending on the structure and design of system S, the internal volume 2c can be divided into two or more compartments. Multiple compartments can be separated from each other to support different thermal control loops, and / or multiple compartments can alternatively be connected to each other.

[0042] like Figures 1a-1b As shown in Figures 2 and 3a-3b, component housing unit 1 includes a first component interface 4a configured for direct attachment of a first system component 5a. The first system component 5a is connected to a first thermal control loop 3a. The first system component 5a can be any type of component used in system S, such as, for example, a circulating pump, valve, heat exchanger, or air separator. Component housing unit 1 includes a second component interface 4b configured for direct attachment of a second system component 5b. The second system component 5b is connected to a second thermal control loop 3b. The second system component 5b can be any type of component used in system S, such as, for example, a circulating pump, valve, heat exchanger, or air separator. The first component interface 4a and the second component interface 4b are provided with suitable connection means for direct attachment of the corresponding first system component 5a and second system component 5b. The connection means of the component interfaces are designed to mate with corresponding mating connection means arranged on the system components, and any suitable type of connection means can be used, such as, for example, screw or threaded connectors, bayonet connectors, and insert connectors with locking devices for maintaining the system component connected to the corresponding component interface. The system components 5a and 5b are removably connected to their corresponding component interfaces 4a and 4b via the connection device, so that the components can be easily maintained or replaced.

[0043] exist Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the first component interface 4a has a set of first threads 16a, and the first system component 5a has a corresponding set of mating second threads 16b. The first system component 5a is threaded into the first component interface 4a, thereby efficiently attaching the first system component 5a to the component housing unit 1 and efficiently removing the first system component 5a from the component housing unit 1. The second component interface 4b and the second system component 5b may have similar mating threads to efficiently attach the second system component 5b to the component housing unit 1 and efficiently remove the second system component 5b from the component housing unit 1. Figure 2 In this configuration, the second system component 5b is directly attached to the component housing unit 1 via the second component interface 4b. Direct attachment means that the system component is directly attached to the component interface of the component housing unit 1 without any intermediate hoses or other types of intermediate components. This direct attachment allows for the design of systems with fewer components, saving space and weight. However, it should be understood that gaskets or similar sealing components can be arranged to connect to the component housing unit 1 at the point between the system component and the corresponding component interface.

[0044] In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the first system component 5a is a first circulation pump 10a, and the second system component 5b is a second circulation pump 10b. The first circulation pump 10a pumps heat transfer fluid from the component housing unit 1 to the first thermal control loop 3a, and the second circulation pump 10b pumps heat transfer fluid from the component housing unit 1 to the second thermal control loop 3b. A first component interface 4a is configured to attach the first circulation pump 10a to the component housing unit 1, and a second component interface 4b is configured to attach the second circulation pump 10b to the component housing unit 1, for example via mating threads as described above. The first circulation pump 10a and the second circulation pump 10b can be any conventional type suitable for circulating heat transfer fluid in a vehicle thermal system, and can be different types and configurations depending on the size and design of the system. Figures 1a-1b and Figure 2 As shown, the first component interface 4a may have a first pump outlet 10c, which allows heat transfer fluid to flow from the first circulating pump 10a into the first thermal control loop 3a. The second component interface 4b may have a second pump outlet 10d, which allows heat transfer fluid to flow from the second circulating pump 10b into the second thermal control loop 3b. In embodiments not shown, the pump outlet may alternatively be directly disposed on the respective circulating pump.

[0045] like Figures 3a-3bAs schematically shown, the component housing unit 1 includes a first flow channel 6a and a second flow channel 6b for heat transfer fluid. The first flow channel 6a is connected to a first component interface 4a, and the second flow channel 6b is connected to a second component interface 4b, thereby allowing heat transfer fluid to flow from the respective flow channels 6a, 6b via component interfaces 4a, 4b to circulation pumps 10a, 10b. In the illustrated embodiment, the first flow channel 6a and the second flow channel 6b are arranged separately from each other within the component housing unit 1. However, in other embodiments, the first flow channel 6a and the second flow channel 6b may be directly or indirectly connected to each other within the component housing unit 1.

[0046] like Figures 3a-3b As schematically shown, a first flow channel 6a includes a first tank fluid port 8a, and a second flow channel 6b includes a second tank fluid port 8b. The expansion tank 2 includes a first inlet / outlet flow opening 9a and a second inlet / outlet flow opening 9b. The first tank fluid port 8a is configured to connect the first flow channel 6a to the internal volume 2c of the expansion tank 2 via the first inlet / outlet flow opening 9a. Therefore, the first flow channel 6a is in fluid communication with the internal volume 2c of the expansion tank 2 via the first tank fluid port 8a and the first inlet / outlet flow opening 9a. For example, the first tank fluid port 8a may be arranged as a channel section of the first flow channel 6a or an opening in the first flow channel 6a. The first inlet / outlet flow opening 9a may be arranged as a channel section of the expansion tank 2, an opening in the expansion tank 2, or a similar device in the expansion tank 2, allowing fluid communication with the first tank fluid port 8a. Figures 3a-3b As shown, the first tank fluid port 8a is arranged to overlap with the first inlet / outlet flow opening 9a, and the heat transfer fluid can expand from the first flow channel 6a into the expansion tank 2, or flow out of the expansion tank 2 into the first flow channel 6a. The second tank fluid port 8b is configured to connect the second flow channel 6b to the internal volume 2c of the expansion tank 2 via the second inlet / outlet flow opening 9b. Therefore, the second flow channel 6b is in fluid communication with the internal volume 2c of the expansion tank 2 via the second tank fluid port 8b and the second inlet / outlet flow opening 9b. For example, the second tank fluid port 8b can be arranged as a channel section of the first flow channel 6a or an opening in the first flow channel 6a. The second inlet / outlet flow opening 9b can be arranged as a channel section of the expansion tank 2, an opening in the expansion tank 2, or a similar device in the expansion tank 2, which allows fluid communication with the second tank fluid port 8b. Figures 3a-3b As shown, the second tank fluid port 8b is arranged to overlap with the second inlet / outlet flow opening 9b, and the heat transfer fluid can expand from the second flow channel 6b into the expansion tank 2, or flow out from the expansion tank 2 into the second flow channel 6b.

[0047] Using the described system S configuration, component housing unit 1 includes a first flow channel 6a connected to a first component interface 4a and a second flow channel 6b connected to a second component interface 4b. The first flow channel 6a includes a first tank fluid port 8a, and the second flow channel 6b includes a second tank fluid port 8b. The first tank fluid port 8a efficiently connects the first flow channel 6a to the internal volume 2c of the expansion tank 2 via a first inlet / outlet flow opening 9a, and the second tank fluid port 8b efficiently connects the second flow channel 6b to the internal volume 2c of the expansion tank 2 via a second inlet / outlet flow opening 9b.

[0048] like Figures 3a-3b As schematically shown, component housing unit 1 includes a first housing fluid port 7a configured to connect component housing unit 1 to a first thermal control circuit 3a and / or a second thermal control circuit 3b. Component housing unit 1 also includes a second housing fluid port 7b configured to connect component housing unit 1 to a second thermal control circuit 3b and / or the first thermal control circuit 3a. A first flow channel 6a extends between the first housing fluid port 7a and a first component interface 4a, and a second flow channel 6a extends between the second housing fluid port 7b and the second component interface 4b.

[0049] The component housing unit 1 may also include one or more valve units. The valve unit 11 may have any suitable configuration that serves to distribute the heat transfer fluid flow entering the component housing unit 1 from the first thermal control circuit 3a to the first flow channel 6a and / or the second flow channel 6b, and to distribute the heat transfer fluid flow entering the component housing unit 1 from the second thermal control circuit 3b to the second flow channel 6b and / or the first flow channel 6a.

[0050] exist Figures 1a-1bIn the embodiments shown in 2 and 3a-3b, the component housing unit 1 further includes a valve unit 11. The valve unit 11 includes a valve housing 11c formed within the component housing unit 1, a first valve inlet fluid port 11a connected to the valve housing 11c, and a second valve inlet fluid port 11b. The first valve inlet fluid port 11a is configured to connect the valve unit 11 to a first thermal control circuit 3a, and the second inlet fluid port 11b is configured to connect the valve unit 11 to a second thermal control circuit 3b. The valve housing 11c is also connected to the first housing fluid port 7a and the second housing fluid port 7b, respectively. With this design, the valve unit 11 is configured to connect the first valve inlet fluid port 11a to a first flow channel 6a and / or a second flow channel 6b, and to connect the second valve inlet fluid port 11b to a second flow channel 6b and / or a first flow channel 6a. The valve unit 11 also includes a valve component 11d movable between different valve positions, such as... Figures 3a-3b As illustrated in the diagram. Figure 2 As shown, a movable valve component 11d is connected to a valve actuator 11e, and the valve actuator 11e is arranged to move the valve component 11d between different valve positions. The valve actuator 11e can have any suitable construction and design, and as an example, a motor can be used as the valve actuator 11e. The valve component 11d includes a first valve flow passage 11f and a second valve flow passage 11g for the heat transfer fluid, and the valve unit 11 has a four-way valve configuration through the first and second valve flow passages. As will be further described below, in this way, the system S includes the valve unit 11, which is used for connection to the first flow passage 6a and / or the second flow passage 6b via the first valve inlet fluid port 11a and for connection to the second flow passage 6b and / or the first flow passage 6a via the second valve inlet fluid port 11b, thereby efficiently distributing the heat transfer fluid.

[0051] exist Figure 3a In this configuration, valve unit 11 is arranged at the first valve position. At the first valve position, valve unit 11 distributes the heat transfer fluid in the first valve flow channel 11f from the first valve inlet fluid port 11a to the first flow channel 6a, and distributes the heat transfer fluid in the second valve flow channel 11g from the second valve inlet fluid port 11b to the second flow channel 6b. In this manner, the thermal control loops are arranged in parallel, wherein the heat transfer fluid flow in the first thermal control loop 3a and the heat transfer fluid flow in the second thermal control loop 3b are separate.

[0052] exist Figure 3bIn this configuration, valve unit 11 is arranged at the second valve position. At the second valve position, valve unit 11 distributes the heat transfer fluid in the second valve flow channel 11g from the first valve inlet fluid port 11a to the second flow channel 6b, and distributes the heat transfer fluid in the first valve flow channel 11f from the second valve inlet fluid port 11b to the first flow channel 6a. In this manner, the thermal control loops are arranged in series, wherein the heat transfer fluid flow in the first thermal control loop 3a is connected to the heat transfer fluid flow in the second thermal control loop 3b.

[0053] The vehicle thermal management system S with the described configuration can be arranged with fewer components, wherein the system S includes a component housing unit 1, an expansion tank 2, a first thermal control circuit 3a, a second thermal control circuit 3b, a first system component 5a, and a second system component 5b. As described above, the expansion tank 2 is arranged to have an outer surface 2a and an inner surface 2b defining an internal volume 2c. The component housing unit 1 is attached to the outer surface 2a of the expansion tank 2 by suitable attachment means. The component housing unit 1 and the expansion tank 2 can be made of any suitable material, such as, for example, plastic, composite, or metallic materials. The component housing unit 1 can be attached to the expansion tank 2 by, for example, gluing or welding, or alternatively by using screws, rivets, or other suitable alternative fastening means. The first thermal control circuit 3a and the second thermal control circuit 3b are connected to the component housing unit 1, and the thermal control circuits connect the component housing unit 1 to the respective vehicle unit via conduits, pipes, or other suitable connecting means. The valve inlet fluid port and pump outlet of the component housing unit 1 can be arranged with suitable connections for conduits or pipes for the system. The component housing unit 1 connects the internal volume 2c of the expansion tank 2 to the first thermal control circuit 3a and the second thermal control circuit 3b, respectively, and allows the heat transfer fluid in the thermal control circuit to expand into and out of the expansion tank 2. The component housing unit 1 includes a first component interface 4a and a second component interface 4b. A first system component 5a is directly attached to the first component interface 4a and is connected to the first thermal control circuit 3a via attachment to the first component interface 4a. A second system component 5b is directly attached to the second component interface 4b and is connected to the second thermal control circuit 3b via attachment to the second component interface 4b.

[0054] In an embodiment not shown, in addition to the first valve flow channel 11f and the second valve flow channel 11g, the valve unit 11 may also be arranged to have a third valve flow channel for the heat transfer fluid. If the third valve flow channel has an X-shaped configuration where all ports of the first valve inlet fluid port 11, the second valve inlet fluid port 11b, the first housing fluid port 7a, and the second housing fluid port 7b are interconnected, then the valve unit 11 is arranged as a five-way valve. The third valve flow channel can be used to mix the heat transfer fluid to further distribute the mixed heat transfer fluid into the corresponding first flow channel 6a and second flow channel 6b, which enters the component housing unit 1 from the first thermal control circuit 3a via the first valve inlet fluid port 11a and from the second thermal control circuit 3b via the second valve inlet fluid port 11b.

[0055] In an alternative embodiment not shown, depending on the design and construction of system S, the component housing unit 1 may be arranged without valve units, if appropriate. In yet another alternative embodiment not shown, the component housing unit may be arranged to have two or more valve units integrated within the housing structure in the same manner as described in the embodiments above. One or more valve units may also be arranged to connect to a thermal control loop, rather than being integrated within the component housing unit 1.

[0056] The first flow passage 6a may include a first air separator 12a configured to guide separated air to the expansion tank 2, and / or the second flow passage 6b may include a second air separator 12b configured to guide separated air to the expansion tank 2. The respective air separators may be connected to the internal volume 2c of the expansion tank 2 via the tank fluid port of the component housing unit 1 and the inlet / outlet flow opening of the expansion tank 2.

[0057] exist Figures 1a-1b In the embodiments shown in 2 and 3a-3b, the first flow channel 6a includes a first air separator 12a, which is arranged to connect to a first tank fluid port 8a of the component housing unit 1. The second flow channel 6b includes a second air separator 12b, which is arranged to connect to a second tank fluid port 8b of the component housing unit 1. The air separators can have any construction and design.

[0058] Some vehicle thermal control systems are configured with two or more thermal control loops, each of which is used to heat and / or cool a specific vehicle unit or vehicle component.

[0059] exist Figure 5The diagram schematically illustrates an exemplary vehicle thermal management system S, which has a configuration of three thermal control loops. In this embodiment, system S includes a first thermal control loop 3a, a second thermal control loop 3b, and another thermal control loop 15. The first thermal control loop 3a, the second thermal control loop 3b, and the other thermal control loop 15 are connected to a component housing unit 1, and the component housing unit 1 is connected to an expansion tank 2 in a manner similar to that described in the above embodiments. The first thermal control loop 3a and the second thermal control loop 3b may have the same configuration as described in the above embodiments. In this embodiment, the component housing unit 1 may include one or more valve units for distributing heat transfer fluid in the respective thermal control loops.

[0060] The component housing unit 1 may include one or more additional component interfaces 13, configured to directly attach corresponding one or more additional system components 14. The one or more additional component interfaces 13 may have the same configuration as the first component interface 4a and the second component interface 4b described above. The one or more additional system components 14 may be any type of component used in the system S, such as, for example, a circulating pump, valve, heat exchanger, or air separator. In this way, the component housing unit 1 is configured to connect to one or more additional thermal control loops 15, and the component housing unit 1 is configured to connect the internal volume 2c of the expansion tank 2a to one or more additional thermal control loops 15. For this system configuration, the component housing unit 1 includes one or more additional component interfaces 13, and the system S also includes corresponding one or more additional system components 14, wherein the one or more additional system components 14 are directly attached to the one or more additional component interfaces 13. Direct attachment means that the system component is directly attached to the component interface of the component housing unit 1 without any intermediate hoses or other types of intermediate components. With this direct attachment, the system can be designed with fewer components to save space and weight. However, it should be understood that gaskets or similar sealing components may be arranged to connect to the component housing unit 1 at a location between the system component and the corresponding component interface.

[0061] exist Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment, in addition to the first thermal control loop 3a and the second thermal control loop 3b, system S includes an additional thermal control loop 15, and an additional system component 14 is connected to this additional thermal control loop 15. Therefore, component housing unit 1 connects the internal volume 2c of expansion tank 2 to this additional thermal control loop 15. The additional system component 14 can be any type of component used in system S, such as, for example, a circulating pump, valve, heat exchanger, or air separator. The additional component interface 13 is provided with suitable connection means for direct attachment of the additional system component 14. The connection means of the additional component interface 13 is designed, as described above, to mate with corresponding mating connection means arranged on the additional system component, and any suitable type of connection means can be used, such as, for example, screw or threaded connectors, bayonet connectors, and insert connectors with locking devices for retaining the system component connected to the corresponding component interface. Through these connection means, system components 5a, 5b, 14 are removably attached to their corresponding component interfaces 4a, 4b, 13 for easy maintenance or replacement of components. For example, each component interface may be provided with a first set of threads, and each of the system components may be provided with a corresponding set of mating second threads. With this configuration, the system components can be threaded into their corresponding component interfaces to efficiently attach the system components to the component housing unit 1 and efficiently remove the system components from the component housing unit 1.

[0062] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, a first thermal control loop 3a is connected to a first vehicle unit A, a second thermal control loop 3b is connected to a second vehicle unit B, and a further thermal control loop 15 is connected to a third vehicle unit C. The first vehicle unit A may be, for example, a battery temperature regulation unit, the second vehicle unit B may be, for example, a power electronics temperature regulation unit, and the third vehicle unit C may be, for example, an internal combustion engine in a hybrid vehicle powertrain. The battery temperature regulation unit may be used, for example, to control the temperature of one or more batteries having associated components used in the vehicle system. The power electronics temperature regulation unit may be used, for example, to control the temperature of power electronic components (such as a motor and other electronic components that are part of a power electronic system). The further thermal control loop 15 is used to control the temperature of the internal combustion engine constituting the third vehicle unit C.

[0063] The thermal control loop components and parts can be of any conventional type for vehicle purposes and will not be described in detail. However, it should be understood that, depending on the design and construction of the vehicle and vehicle systems, system S can be used to heat or cool other types of vehicle units or parts besides those described above. It should be understood that the corresponding control loop can include any suitable number of components for controlling the temperature range and flow of the heat transfer fluid, such as, for example, heat exchangers, coolers, heaters, filters, air separators, connectors, fans, valves, circulation pumps, and / or any other components known in the art related to such a thermal system.

[0064] It should be understood that the above description is exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the present disclosure or its application or use. Although specific examples have been described in the specification and shown in the drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the claims. Furthermore, modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its essential scope. Therefore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific examples disclosed as the best mode of implementation currently conceived for carrying out the teachings of the present disclosure, which are depicted in the drawings and described in the specification; rather, the scope of the present disclosure will include any implementation falling within the scope of the foregoing description and the appended claims. Reference numerals used in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the subject matter protected by the claims; their sole purpose is to facilitate the understanding of the claims.

[0065] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0066] 1: Component housing unit

[0067] 2: Expansion tank

[0068] 2a: Outer surface

[0069] 2b: Inner surface

[0070] 2c: Internal volume

[0071] 2d: First tank section

[0072] 2e: Second tank section

[0073] 2f: Fill the opening

[0074] 3a: First thermal control loop

[0075] 3b: Second thermal control loop

[0076] 4a: First component interface

[0077] 4b: Second component interface

[0078] 5a: First system component

[0079] 5b: Second system component

[0080] 6a: First flow channel

[0081] 6b: Second flow channel

[0082] 7a: First housing fluid port

[0083] 7b: Second housing fluid port

[0084] 8a: First tank fluid port

[0085] 8b: Second tank fluid port

[0086] 9a: First inlet / outlet flow opening

[0087] 9b: Second inlet / outlet flow opening

[0088] 10a: First circulation pump

[0089] 10b: Second circulation pump

[0090] 10c: First pump outlet

[0091] 10d: Second pump outlet

[0092] 11: Valve Unit

[0093] 11a: First valve inlet fluid port

[0094] 11b: Second valve inlet fluid port

[0095] 11c: Valve body

[0096] 11d: Valve component

[0097] 11e: Valve actuator

[0098] 11f: First valve flow channel

[0099] 11g: Second valve flow channel

[0100] 12a: First air separator

[0101] 12b: Second air separator

[0102] 13: Other component interfaces

[0103] 14: Other system components

[0104] 15: Additional thermal control loop

[0105] 16a: First thread

[0106] 16b: Second thread

[0107] A: First vehicle unit

[0108] B: Second Vehicle Unit

[0109] C: Third Vehicle Unit

[0110] S: Vehicle Thermal Management System

Claims

1. A component housing unit (1) for a vehicle thermal management system (S), wherein, The component housing unit (1) is configured to be attached to the outer surface (2a) of the expansion tank (2), which has an inner surface (2b) defining an internal volume (2c); The component housing unit (1) is characterized in that it is configured to connect to a first thermal control circuit (3a) and a second thermal control circuit (3b), and wherein the component housing unit (1) is configured to connect the internal volume (2c) of the expansion tank (2) to the first thermal control circuit (3a) and the second thermal control circuit (3b) respectively; The component housing unit (1) includes a first component interface (4a) and a second component interface (4b). The first component interface (4a) is configured for direct attachment to a first system component (5a) connected to the first thermal control circuit (3a). The second component interface (4b) is configured for direct attachment to a second system component (5b) connected to the second thermal control circuit (3b). The component housing unit (1) includes a valve unit (11), wherein when the valve unit (11) is in the first position, the thermal control circuits (3a, 3b) are arranged in parallel, and when the valve unit (11) is in the second position, the thermal control circuits (3a, 3b) are arranged in series. The component housing unit (1) includes a first flow channel (6a) connected to the first component interface (4a) and a second flow channel (6b) connected to the second component interface (4b), wherein the first flow channel (6a) and the second flow channel (6b) are arranged inside the component housing unit (1); The first flow channel (6a) includes a first tank fluid port (8a), and the second flow channel (6b) includes a second tank fluid port (8b). The first tank fluid port (8a) is configured to connect the first flow channel (6a) to the internal volume (2c) of the expansion tank (2) via a first inlet / outlet fluid opening (9a). The second tank fluid port (8b) is configured to connect the second flow channel (6b) to the internal volume (2c) of the expansion tank (2) via a second inlet / outlet fluid opening (9b). The first tank fluid port (8a) is arranged to overlap with the first inlet / outlet flow opening (9a), and the second tank fluid port (8b) is arranged to overlap with the second inlet / outlet flow opening (9b).

2. The component housing unit (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first flow channel (6a) and the second flow channel (6b) are arranged separately within the component housing unit (1).

3. The component housing unit (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first component interface (4a) is configured to attach a first circulation pump (10a) to the component housing unit (1), and the second component interface (4b) is configured to attach a second circulation pump (10b) to the component housing unit (1).

4. The component housing unit (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The component housing unit (1) includes a first housing fluid port (7a) and a second housing fluid port (7b), the first housing fluid port (7a) being configured to connect the component housing unit (1) to the first thermal control circuit (3a) and / or the second thermal control circuit (3b), and the second housing fluid port (7b) being configured to connect the component housing unit (1) to the second thermal control circuit (3b) and / or the first thermal control circuit (3a); The first flow channel (6a) extends between the first housing fluid port (7a) and the first component interface (4a), and the second flow channel (6a) extends between the second housing fluid port (7b) and the second component interface (4b).

5. The component housing unit (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The valve unit (11) includes a valve housing (11c) formed within the component housing unit (1) and a first valve inlet fluid port (11a) and a second valve inlet fluid port (11b) connected to the valve housing (11c); The first valve inlet fluid port (11a) is configured to connect the valve unit (11) to the first thermal control circuit (3a), and the second valve inlet fluid port (11b) is configured to connect the valve unit (11) to the second thermal control circuit (3b). The valve housing (11c) is also connected to the first housing fluid port (7a) and the second housing fluid port (7b), wherein the valve unit (11) is configured to connect the first valve inlet fluid port (11a) to the first flow channel (6a) and / or the second flow channel (6b), and to connect the second valve inlet fluid port (11b) to the second flow channel (6b) and / or the first flow channel (6a).

6. The component housing unit (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first flow channel (6a) includes a first air separator (12a) configured to guide separated air to the expansion tank (2), and / or the second flow channel (6b) includes a second air separator (12b) configured to guide separated air to the expansion tank (2).

7. The component housing unit (1) according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The component housing unit (1) includes one or more additional component interfaces (13) configured to directly attach to one or more corresponding additional system components (14).

8. The component housing unit (1) according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The component housing unit (1) is configured to connect to one or more additional thermal control circuits (15), wherein the component housing unit (1) is configured to connect the internal volume (2c) of the expansion tank (2) to the one or more additional thermal control circuits (15).

9. A vehicle thermal management system (S) comprising a component housing unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The system (S) also includes an expansion tank (2), a first thermal control circuit (3a), a second thermal control circuit (3b), a first system component (5a), and a second system component (5b); The expansion tank (2) is arranged to have an outer surface (2a) and an inner surface (2b) defining an internal volume (2c), wherein the component housing unit (1) is attached to the outer surface (2a) of the expansion tank (2); The first thermal control circuit (3a) and the second thermal control circuit (3b) are connected to the component housing unit (1), wherein the component housing unit (1) connects the internal volume (2c) of the expansion tank (2) to the first thermal control circuit (3a) and the second thermal control circuit (3b) respectively; The component housing unit (1) includes a first component interface (4a) and a second component interface (4b), wherein the first system component (5a) is connected to the first thermal control circuit (3a), and the second system component (5b) is connected to the second thermal control circuit (3b), wherein the first system component (5a) is directly attached to the first component interface (4a), and the second system component (5b) is directly attached to the second component interface (4b); The component housing unit (1) further includes a valve unit (11), wherein when the valve unit (11) is in the first position, the thermal control circuits (3a, 3b) are arranged in parallel, and when the valve unit (11) is in the second position, the thermal control circuits (3a, 3b) are arranged in series.

10. The vehicle thermal management system (S) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The component housing unit (1) includes a first flow channel (6a) connected to the first component interface (4a) and a second flow channel (6b) connected to the second component interface (4b). The first flow channel (6a) includes a first tank fluid port (8a), and the second flow channel (6b) includes a second tank fluid port (8b). The first tank fluid port (8a) connects the first flow channel (6a) to the internal volume (2c) of the expansion tank (2) via a first inlet / outlet fluid opening (9a) of the expansion tank (2). The second tank fluid port (8b) connects the second flow channel (6b) to the internal volume (2c) of the expansion tank (2) via a second inlet / outlet fluid opening (9b) of the expansion tank (2).

11. The vehicle thermal management system (S) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The valve unit (11) includes a valve housing (11c) formed within the component housing unit (1) and a first valve inlet fluid port (11a) and a second valve inlet fluid port (11b) connected to the valve housing (11c); The first valve inlet fluid port (11a) connects the valve unit (11) to the first thermal control circuit (3a), and the second valve inlet fluid port (11b) connects the valve unit (11) to the second thermal control circuit (3b). The valve housing (11c) is also connected to a first housing fluid port (7a) and a second housing fluid port (7b). The valve unit (11) connects the first valve inlet fluid port (11a) to the first flow channel (6a) and / or the second flow channel (6b), and connects the second valve inlet fluid port (11b) to the second flow channel (6b) and / or the first flow channel (6a).

12. The vehicle thermal management system (S) according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The component housing unit (1) includes one or more additional component interfaces (13), and the system (S) also includes one or more corresponding additional system components (14), wherein the one or more additional system components (14) are directly attached to the one or more additional component interfaces (13).

13. The vehicle thermal management system (S) according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The system (S) also includes one or more additional thermal control loops (15), wherein the component housing unit (1) connects the internal volume (2c) of the expansion tank (2a) to the one or more additional thermal control loops (15).

14. The vehicle thermal management system (S) according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The system components (5a, 5b, 14) are attached to their respective component interfaces (4a, 4b, 13) in a removable manner.

Images