Engine cooling system, method for controlling the same and vehicle

Abstract

The application provides an engine cooling system, a control method thereof and a vehicle. The engine cooling system comprises a cylinder, a first water inlet pipe, a first water outlet pipe and a second water outlet pipe. The cylinder comprises a cylinder body. An inlet of the first water inlet pipe is used for receiving cooling liquid for cooling the cylinder body. An outlet of the first water inlet pipe is connected to the cylinder body. The first water outlet pipe is arranged at an upper half of the cylinder body. The second water outlet pipe is arranged at a lower half of the cylinder body. The first water inlet pipe is in communication with the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe, and the communication position is located at the cylinder body. The technical scheme can reduce the non-uniform thermal deformation of the cylinder body, reduce air leakage, and ensure the stable output power of the engine.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of engine technology, and in particular to an engine cooling system, its control method, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] During engine cylinder operation, cooling is required to prevent overheating. However, the upper and lower layers of the cylinder block experience different temperatures during rotation. This uneven heating leads to thermal deformation and can cause poor cylinder sealing. Poor sealing results in air leakage, causing unstable engine output power. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One objective of this application is to provide an engine cooling system, its control method, and a vehicle that can reduce uneven thermal deformation of the upper and lower cylinder blocks, reduce air leakage, and thus ensure stable engine output power.

[0004] According to one aspect of this application, an engine cooling system is provided, the engine cooling system comprising:

[0005] A cylinder, the cylinder including a cylinder body;

[0006] A first water inlet pipe, the inlet of which is used to receive coolant for cooling the cylinder block, and the outlet of which is connected to the cylinder block; and

[0007] A first water outlet pipe and a second water outlet pipe are provided. The first water outlet pipe is located in the upper half of the cylinder body, and the second water outlet pipe is located in the lower half of the cylinder body. The first water inlet pipe is connected to both the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe, and the connection point is located in the cylinder body.

[0008] In one aspect, the engine cooling system further includes: a first flow regulator and a second flow regulator, the first flow regulator being disposed in the first water outlet pipe and the second flow regulator being disposed in the second water outlet pipe.

[0009] In one aspect, the engine cooling system further includes a water tank and a continuously variable water pump, the water tank being connected to the continuously variable water pump, and the continuously variable water pump being connected to the first water inlet pipe.

[0010] In one aspect, the engine cooling system further includes a radiator, one end of which is connected to the first flow regulator and the second flow regulator, and the other end of which is connected to the stepless water pump.

[0011] In one aspect, the engine cooling system includes a thermostatic valve located in a pipe between the first flow regulator and the radiator.

[0012] In one aspect, the engine cooling system includes a return water pipe, one end of which is connected to the first flow regulator, and the other end of which is connected to the stepless water pump.

[0013] In one aspect, the engine cooling system also includes:

[0014] The first water outlet valve is located in the first water outlet pipe and between the first flow regulator and the cylinder body; and

[0015] The second water outlet valve is located in the second water outlet pipe and between the second flow regulator and the cylinder body.

[0016] In one aspect, the cylinder further includes a cylinder head, which covers the upper half of the cylinder body;

[0017] The engine cooling system also includes:

[0018] The second water inlet pipe has its inlet connected to the stepless water pump and its outlet connected to the cylinder head.

[0019] The cover water outlet pipe has one end connected to the cylinder head and communicates with the second water inlet pipe inside the cylinder head, and the other end connected to the first flow regulator.

[0020] In one aspect, the engine cooling system includes:

[0021] Heating device;

[0022] A heating pipe, one end of which is connected to the water outlet pipe of the cover, and the other end of which is connected to the heating device;

[0023] A heating return water pipe, one end of which is connected to the heating device, and the other end of which is connected to the first flow regulator.

[0024] In one aspect, the engine cooling system includes a heating valve disposed in the heater pipe.

[0025] In one aspect, the engine cooling system includes:

[0026] An oil cooler, wherein the oil cooler is used to reduce the temperature of the engine oil;

[0027] A cooler water supply pipe, one end of which is connected to the stepless water pump, and the other end of which is connected to the oil cooler;

[0028] An oil return pipe is provided, with one end connected to the oil cooler and the other end connected to the first flow regulator.

[0029] Furthermore, to address the aforementioned problems, this application also provides a control method for an engine cooling system, the control method being used to control the engine cooling system as described above, the control method comprising:

[0030] Obtain the temperature parameters of the engine;

[0031] The operating stage of the engine is determined based on the temperature parameters;

[0032] The flow rates of coolant in the first and second water outlet pipes are controlled according to the engine's operating stage.

[0033] In one aspect, the cylinder further includes a cylinder head, which covers the upper half of the cylinder body;

[0034] The engine cooling system includes: a first flow regulator, a second flow regulator, a water tank, a continuously variable water pump, a second water inlet pipe, a cover outlet pipe, and a heating valve. The first flow regulator is located in the first water outlet pipe, and the second flow regulator is located in the second water outlet pipe. The water tank is connected to the continuously variable water pump, and the continuously variable water pump is connected to the first water inlet pipe. The inlet of the second water inlet pipe is connected to the continuously variable water pump, and the outlet of the second water inlet pipe is connected to the cylinder head. One end of the cover outlet pipe is connected to the cylinder head and communicates with the second water inlet pipe inside the cylinder head. The other end of the cover outlet pipe is connected to the first flow regulator.

[0035] The engine cooling system further includes: a heater, a heater supply pipe and a heater return pipe. One end of the heater supply pipe is connected to the cover outlet pipe and the other end is connected to the heater. One end of the heater return pipe is connected to the heater and the other end is connected to the first flow regulator. The heating valve is located in the heater supply pipe.

[0036] After determining the engine's operating stage based on the temperature parameters, the process includes:

[0037] When the engine temperature is below a first temperature threshold, it is determined that the engine is operating in the warm-up phase, and the heating valve is closed.

[0038] When the engine temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold and lower than the second temperature threshold, the heating valve is opened in response to heating, wherein the first temperature threshold is less than the second temperature threshold.

[0039] In one aspect, the engine cooling system further includes: a radiator, a return water pipe and a thermostatic valve, one end of the radiator being connected to the first flow regulator and the second flow regulator respectively, the other end of the radiator being connected to the infinitely variable water pump, one end of the return water pipe being connected to the first flow regulator, the other end of the return water pipe being connected to the infinitely variable water pump, and the thermostatic valve being disposed in the pipeline between the first flow regulator and the radiator;

[0040] After the step of determining the engine's operating stage based on the temperature parameter, the method further includes:

[0041] When the engine temperature reaches the second temperature threshold, the thermostat valve is controlled to open.

[0042] In one aspect, the engine cooling system further includes: a first outlet valve and a second outlet valve, wherein the first outlet valve is disposed in the first outlet pipe and located between the first flow regulator and the cylinder block, and the second outlet valve is disposed in the second outlet pipe and located between the second flow regulator and the cylinder block;

[0043] The step of controlling the flow rate of coolant in the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe respectively according to the operating stage of the engine includes:

[0044] When the water temperature in the upper half of the cylinder block is higher than the third temperature threshold, the first water outlet valve is opened.

[0045] When the water temperature in the lower half of the cylinder block is higher than the third temperature threshold, the second water outlet valve is opened, wherein the second temperature threshold is lower than the third temperature threshold.

[0046] In addition, to solve the above problems, this application also provides a vehicle, the vehicle including a frame and an engine cooling system as described above, the frame forming a support space, and the engine cooling system disposed within the support space.

[0047] In this application's technical solution, the coolant for cooling the cylinder block enters through a first inlet pipe and flows out through a first outlet pipe and a second outlet pipe. As the coolant flows through the cylinder block, it carries away heat. Since the first outlet pipe is located in the upper half of the cylinder block, and the second outlet pipe is located in the lower half, the coolant in the first outlet pipe can carry away heat from the upper half of the cylinder block, and the coolant in the second outlet pipe can carry away heat from the lower half. Therefore, this technical solution can further reduce uneven thermal deformation of the cylinder block, reduce air leakage, and thus ensure stable engine output power.

[0048] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0049] The above and other objectives, features and advantages of this application will become more apparent from a detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram showing the coolant flow direction of each component in the engine cooling system of this application.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of the first embodiment of the control method for the engine cooling system in this application.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of the second embodiment of the control method for the engine cooling system in this application.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of the third embodiment of the control method for the engine cooling system in this application.

[0054] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of the fourth embodiment of the control method for the engine cooling system in this application.

[0055] The annotations in the attached figures are explained as follows:

[0056] 10. Cylinder; 21. First water inlet pipe; 22. Second water inlet pipe; 31. First water outlet pipe; 32. Second water outlet pipe; 33. Cover water outlet pipe; 41. First flow regulator; 42. Second flow regulator; 43. First water outlet valve; 44. Second water outlet valve; 51. Water tank; 52. Stepless water pump; 61. Radiator; 62. Thermostatic valve; 70. Return water pipe; 80. Heating unit; 81. Heating supply pipe; 82. Heating return water pipe; 83. Heating valve; 90. Oil cooler; 91. Cooler water supply pipe; 92. Oil return water pipe; 110. Cylinder block; 111. Upper section; 112. Lower section; 120. Cylinder head. Detailed Implementation

[0057] Although this application can be readily embodied in various forms of implementation, only some specific embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail in this specification. It is understood that this specification should be regarded as an exemplary illustration of the principles of this application and is not intended to limit the application to what is described herein.

[0058] Therefore, a feature described in this specification is used to illustrate one feature of one embodiment of this application, and does not imply that every embodiment of this application must have the described feature. Furthermore, it should be noted that this specification describes many features. While certain features may be combined to illustrate possible system designs, these features may also be used in other combinations not explicitly stated. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, the described combinations are not intended to be limiting.

[0059] In the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, the directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, and back) used to explain the structure and movement of the various elements of this application are relative rather than absolute. These descriptions are appropriate when these elements are in the positions shown in the drawings. If the description of the positions of these elements changes, these directional indications also change accordingly.

[0060] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, they are provided to make the description of this application more comprehensive and complete, and to fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The drawings are merely illustrative of this application and are not necessarily drawn to scale. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar parts, and therefore repeated descriptions of them will be omitted.

[0061] The preferred embodiments of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] See Figure 1 As shown, this application provides an engine cooling system. The engine's power source mainly comes from the cylinder, which is a structure that converts the internal energy of fuel into kinetic energy. The cylinder generates a large amount of heat during this conversion. This excessive heat can lead to overheating of the engine, resulting in various adverse effects such as knocking and severe engine deformation. Severe engine deformation can further cause uneven piston-cylinder contact, increased frictional losses, and incomplete fuel combustion, ultimately leading to unstable engine output power. Therefore, an engine cooling system is used to cool the cylinder 10 and prevent overheating.

[0063] The engine cooling system includes: cylinder 10, first water inlet pipe 21, first water outlet pipe 31 and second water outlet pipe 32; the cylinder 10 includes cylinder block 110, the inlet of the first water inlet pipe 21 is used to receive coolant for cooling cylinder block 110, and the outlet of the first water inlet pipe 21 is connected to cylinder block 110; coolant usually refers to water, but also includes a mixture of antifreeze.

[0064] When the engine is running, the upper half 111 and the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 generate different amounts of heat. The upper half 111 and lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 refer to the upper and lower ends parallel to the direction of piston movement during normal engine operation. The end furthest from the piston is the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110, and the end closest to the piston is the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110. To ensure more uniform deformation in the upper half 111 and lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110, a first water outlet pipe 31 is located in the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110, and a second water outlet pipe 32 is located in the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110. A first water inlet pipe 21 is connected to both the first water outlet pipe 31 and the second water outlet pipe 32, and the connection point is located within the cylinder block 110.

[0065] The first water inlet pipe 21, the first water outlet pipe 31, and the second water outlet pipe 32 are typically connected within the cylinder block 110, where heat exchange occurs. To increase the contact area, the first water inlet pipe 21, the first water outlet pipe 31, and the second water outlet pipe 32 are typically arranged around the inner or outer wall of the cylinder block 110. This allows the coolant to flow along the wall of the cylinder block 110, carrying away more heat.

[0066] In this embodiment, the coolant for cooling the cylinder block 110 enters through the first inlet pipe 21 and flows out through the first outlet pipe 31 and the second outlet pipe 32. As the coolant flows through the cylinder block 110, it carries away the heat from the cylinder block 110. Since the first outlet pipe 31 is located in the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110, and the second outlet pipe 32 is located in the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110, the coolant in the first outlet pipe 31 can carry away the heat from the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110, and the coolant in the second outlet pipe 32 can carry away the heat from the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110. Therefore, this technical solution can further reduce uneven thermal deformation of the cylinder block 110, reduce air leakage, and thus ensure stable engine output power. It also further reduces the increased friction loss between the piston and cylinder 10 caused by deformation.

[0067] To allow for more flexible adjustment of the coolant flow rate in the upper half 111 and lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110, the engine cooling system further includes a first flow regulator 41 and a second flow regulator 42. The first flow regulator 41 controls the flow rate in the first outlet pipe 31, and the second flow regulator 42 controls the flow rate in the second outlet pipe 32. The first flow regulator 41 is located in the first outlet pipe 31, and the second flow regulator 42 is located in the second outlet pipe 32.

[0068] When the temperature of the upper section 111 of the cylinder block 110 is too high, the flow rate of the first water outlet pipe 31 is increased through the first flow regulator 41, thereby increasing heat exchange, removing more heat from the upper section 111 of the cylinder block 110, and lowering the temperature of the upper section 111. Conversely, if the temperature of the upper section 111 is too low, the flow rate of the first water outlet pipe 31 is reduced through the first flow regulator 41, thereby reducing heat exchange.

[0069] Similarly, when the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 is too high, the flow rate of the second water outlet pipe 32 is increased through the second flow regulator 42, thereby increasing heat exchange, removing more heat from the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110, and lowering the temperature of the lower half 112. Conversely, if the temperature of the lower half 112 is too low, the flow rate of the second water outlet pipe 32 is reduced through the second flow regulator 42, thereby reducing heat exchange in the lower half 112.

[0070] In addition, to ensure smoother coolant flow regulation, the engine cooling system also includes a water tank 51 and a continuously variable water pump 52. The water tank 51 is connected to the continuously variable water pump 52, which is connected to the first inlet pipe 21. The water tank 51 stores coolant and supplies it to the continuously variable water pump 52. The continuously variable water pump 52 pumps the coolant, generating pressure to draw coolant from the water tank 51 and pump it to the cylinder 10.

[0071] The stepless water pump 52 can achieve stepless speed regulation, making the coolant flow rate change linearly. Therefore, the stepless water pump 52 can flexibly adjust the coolant flow rate within a specified flow range, resulting in smoother coolant flow control and more precise flow control.

[0072] Engines typically generate a significant amount of heat during operation. To more effectively dissipate heat, the engine cooling system also includes a radiator 61. One end of the radiator 61 is connected to a first flow regulator 41 and a second flow regulator 42, while the other end is connected to a continuously variable water pump 52. The radiator 61 is primarily used to dissipate heat and lower the temperature of the coolant.

[0073] After the coolant has cooled the cylinder 10, its temperature is still high. Circulating the coolant back into the cylinder 10 would be ineffective and fail to achieve proper cooling. However, with the radiator 61, the coolant flowing through the cylinder 10 is directed to the radiator 61. As the coolant flows through the radiator 61, it transfers heat to the radiator 61's walls, and through contact with the air, it dissipates the heat into the surrounding air, thus achieving cooling.

[0074] When the engine first starts running, the internal temperature is low. To ensure more complete fuel combustion, the internal temperature of the cylinder 10 must be kept from becoming too low. For this purpose, the engine cooling system includes a thermostatic valve 62, which is located in the pipeline between the first flow regulator 41 and the radiator 61.

[0075] When the engine starts running, the thermostat valve 62 is closed to prevent coolant from flowing through the radiator 61, thus reducing heat dissipation and allowing the cylinder 10 to heat up quickly. After the cylinder 10 has reached a certain temperature, when cooling is required, the thermostat valve 62 is opened to allow the coolant to dissipate heat through the radiator 61.

[0076] Alternatively, when it is necessary to make full use of the heat of cylinder 10, the thermostat valve 62 can be closed to use the heat of cylinder 10 for the operation of other equipment, such as supplying the heating device 80.

[0077] Furthermore, to ensure that the coolant can return to the continuously variable water pump 52 when the thermostat valve 62 is closed, in this embodiment, the engine cooling system includes a return water pipe 70. One end of the return water pipe 70 is connected to the first flow regulator 41, and the other end is connected to the continuously variable water pump 52. When the thermostat valve 62 is closed, the coolant flows directly to the continuously variable water pump 52 after passing through the first flow regulator 41. This direct return method, avoiding the radiator 61, reduces heat dissipation.

[0078] To further flexibly adjust the temperature of the upper and lower layers of the cylinder block 110, the engine cooling system also includes: a first outlet valve 43 and a second outlet valve 44. The first outlet valve 43 is located in the first outlet pipe 31 and between the first flow regulator 41 and the cylinder block 110; the second outlet valve 44 is located in the second outlet pipe 32 and between the second flow regulator 42 and the cylinder block 110. The first outlet valve 43 controls the opening and closing of the first outlet pipe 31, and the second outlet valve 44 controls the opening and closing of the second outlet pipe 32.

[0079] For example, when the temperature of the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110 is low, the connection between the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110 and the first flow regulator 41 is disconnected through the first water outlet valve 43, thereby increasing the temperature of the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110. When the temperature of the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110 is high, the connection between the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110 and the first flow regulator 41 is reconnected through the first water outlet valve 43, thereby decreasing the temperature of the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110.

[0080] When the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 is low, the connection between the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 and the second flow regulator 42 is disconnected through the second water outlet valve 44, thereby increasing the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110. When the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 is high, the connection between the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 and the second flow regulator 42 is reconnected through the second water outlet valve 44, thereby decreasing the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110.

[0081] Of course, the first outlet valve 43 and the second outlet valve 44 can be disconnected or connected at the same time.

[0082] The cylinder 10 also includes a cylinder head 120, which covers the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110. To ensure more uniform deformation of the cylinder 10, the cylinder head 120 also needs to be cooled. Therefore, the engine cooling system includes a second water inlet pipe 22 and a cover outlet pipe 33. The inlet of the second water inlet pipe 22 is connected to a continuously variable water pump 52, and the outlet of the second water inlet pipe 22 is connected to the cylinder head 120. Coolant is pumped into the cylinder head 120 by the pumping pressure of the continuously variable water pump 52.

[0083] One end of the cover water outlet pipe 33 is connected to the cylinder head 120 and communicates with the second water inlet pipe 22 inside the cylinder head 120. The other end of the cover water outlet pipe 33 is connected to the first flow regulator 41. Coolant enters the cylinder head 120 through the second water inlet pipe 22 and flows out from the cover water outlet pipe 33. The coolant carries away the heat of the cylinder head 120 within the cylinder head 120.

[0084] It should be emphasized that the first inlet pipe 21 and the second inlet pipe 22 can share the same section of pipeline, that is, the common pipeline is connected from the outlet end of the infinitely variable water pump 52, and the common pipeline is then separately connected to the first inlet pipe 21 and the second inlet pipe 22. For example, a three-way valve can be used to separate the common pipeline to connect the first inlet pipe 21 and the second inlet pipe 22.

[0085] Generally speaking, the cylinder head 120 has a higher temperature, so the cover water outlet pipe 33 of the cylinder head 120 is directly connected to the first flow regulator 41. No valve is installed in the cover water outlet pipe 33, and the pipe of the cover water outlet pipe 33 is kept in a normally open state.

[0086] To fully utilize the engine's heat, the engine cooling system includes a heater 80, a heater supply pipe 81, and a heater return pipe 82. One end of the heater supply pipe 81 is connected to the cover outlet pipe 33, and the other end is connected to the heater 80. One end of the heater return pipe 82 is connected to the heater 80, and the other end is connected to the first flow regulator 41. The heater 80 is used to heat the vehicle, raising the temperature of the passenger compartment. The heat from the heater 80 comes from the engine, thus fully utilizing the engine's heat, reducing fuel consumption, and achieving energy saving.

[0087] Of course, when the vehicle is first started, the engine generates little heat, which is needed to maintain engine operation and is insufficient to supply the heating system 80. Therefore, the engine cooling system includes a heating valve 83, which is located in the heating pipe 81. When the vehicle is first started and in the warm-up phase, the heating valve 83 is closed. Simultaneously, by opening or closing the heating valve 83, the on / off state of the heating pipe 81 can also be controlled, allowing for better and more flexible control of the engine's heat output.

[0088] To fully utilize the engine's heat, the engine cooling system includes an oil cooler 90, a cooler water supply pipe 91, and an oil return pipe 92. One end of the cooler water supply pipe 91 is connected to a continuously variable water pump 52, and the other end is connected to the oil cooler 90; one end of the oil return pipe 92 is connected to the oil cooler 90, and the other end is connected to a first flow regulator 41.

[0089] The oil cooler 90 has two operating states. One is to warm the engine oil, mainly during the initial start-up phase of the vehicle, when the oil temperature is low. To conserve heat, the thermostat 62 is closed, and the coolant passing through cylinder 10 flows directly back to the continuously variable water pump 52 without passing through radiator 61. This portion of coolant, having passed through the cylinder head, has a higher temperature. The continuously variable water pump 52 pumps this warm coolant to the oil cooler 90, thus warming the oil cooler 90, which then transfers the heat to the engine oil.

[0090] Another operating mode is to cool the engine oil. At this stage, the engine has been running for some time, and the engine oil heats up quickly, reaching a temperature higher than the coolant. Therefore, the engine oil needs to be cooled. The thermostatic valve 62 opens, and the coolant passing through cylinder 10 is cooled by the radiator 61, lowering its temperature. The continuously variable water pump 52 then pumps the coolant to the oil cooler 90, carrying away the heat from the oil cooler and thus cooling the engine oil. It is important to emphasize that the connecting pipes between the oil cooler 90 and the continuously variable water pump 52 remain open.

[0091] In the above embodiments, the first outlet valve 43 and the second outlet valve 44, as well as the thermostatic valve 62 and the heating valve 83, are all valves of the same type, such as ball valves. Using a uniform valve type facilitates installation and reduces the likelihood of installation errors.

[0092] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this application also provides a control method for an engine cooling system. The control method is used to control the engine cooling system in the above embodiments, and the control method includes:

[0093] Step S10: Obtain engine temperature parameters; install temperature sensors on various structural components of the engine, and use these sensors to detect the engine temperature to obtain the engine temperature parameters.

[0094] Step S20: Determine the engine's operating stage based on temperature parameters; for example, the engine has a warm-up stage and a normal operating stage. The engine has different temperature parameters in different operating stages, therefore, the operating stage of the engine can be determined by the temperature parameters.

[0095] Step S30: Based on the engine's operating stage, the flow rates of coolant in the first outlet pipe 31 and the second outlet pipe 32 are controlled respectively. The engine generates different amounts of heat and requires different cooling measures at different operating stages. Therefore, the coolant flow rate control also varies. Controlling the coolant flow rates in the first outlet pipe 31 and the second outlet pipe 32 separately better adapts to the engine's operating conditions and ensures normal engine operation.

[0096] Furthermore, the cylinder 10 also includes a cylinder head 120, which covers the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110; the engine cooling system includes: a first flow regulator 41, a second flow regulator 42, a water tank 51, a continuously variable water pump 52, a second water inlet pipe 22, a cover water outlet pipe 33, and a heating valve 83. The first flow regulator 41 is located in the first water outlet pipe 31, and the second flow regulator 42 is located in the second water outlet pipe 32. The water tank 51 is connected to the continuously variable water pump 52, and the continuously variable water pump 52 is connected to the first water inlet pipe 21. The inlet of the second water inlet pipe 22 is connected to the continuously variable water pump 52, and the outlet of the second water inlet pipe 22 is connected to the cylinder head 120. One end of the cover water outlet pipe 33 is connected to the cylinder head 120 and communicates with the second water inlet pipe 22 inside the cylinder head 120. The other end of the cover water outlet pipe 33 is connected to the first flow regulator 41.

[0097] When the temperature of the upper section 111 of the cylinder block 110 is too high, the flow rate of the first water outlet pipe 31 is increased through the first flow regulator 41, thereby increasing heat exchange, removing more heat from the upper section 111 of the cylinder block 110, and lowering the temperature of the upper section 111. Conversely, if the temperature of the upper section 111 is too low, the flow rate of the first water outlet pipe 31 is reduced through the first flow regulator 41, thereby reducing heat exchange.

[0098] Similarly, when the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 is too high, the flow rate of the second water outlet pipe 32 is increased through the second flow regulator 42, thereby increasing heat exchange, removing more heat from the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110, and lowering the temperature of the lower half 112. Conversely, if the temperature of the lower half 112 is too low, the flow rate of the second water outlet pipe 32 is reduced through the second flow regulator 42, thereby reducing heat exchange in the lower half 112.

[0099] The stepless water pump 52 can achieve stepless speed regulation, making the coolant flow rate change linearly. Therefore, the stepless water pump 52 can flexibly adjust the coolant flow rate within a specified flow range, resulting in smoother coolant flow control and more precise flow control.

[0100] To fully utilize the engine's heat, the engine cooling system also includes: a heater 80, a heater supply pipe 81, and a heater return pipe 82. One end of the heater supply pipe 81 is connected to the cover outlet pipe 33, and the other end is connected to the heater 80. One end of the heater return pipe 82 is connected to the heater 80, and the other end is connected to the first flow regulator 41. A heating valve 83 is located in the heater supply pipe 81. The heater 80 is used to heat the vehicle and raise the temperature of the vehicle's passenger space. The heat from the heater 80 comes from the engine, which can fully utilize the engine's heat, reduce fuel consumption, and achieve energy saving.

[0101] See Figure 3 As shown, after determining the engine's operating stage based on temperature parameters, the steps include:

[0102] Step S40: When the engine temperature is below the first temperature threshold, it is determined that the engine is operating in the warm-up stage, and the heating valve 83 is closed. Generally, when the engine is operating in the warm-up stage, it provides less heat and the temperature is lower. In order to make the engine warm up quickly, the heating valve 83 is closed.

[0103] In step S41, when the engine temperature is higher than a first temperature threshold but lower than a second temperature threshold, the heating valve 83 is opened in response to heating demand, wherein the first temperature threshold is less than the second temperature threshold. When there is a heating demand and the engine temperature is already higher than the first temperature threshold, heat can be supplied to the heating device. At this time, the heating valve 83 opens, and the hotter coolant flows to the heating device, exchanging heat with it. The heating device then transfers the heat to the vehicle's passenger space. This method can improve the engine's thermal efficiency, reduce the direct use of fuel for heating by the heating device, and lower fuel consumption.

[0104] In one aspect, the engine cooling system also includes a radiator 61, a return water pipe 70, and a thermostatic valve 62. One end of the radiator 61 is connected to a first flow regulator 41 and a second flow regulator 42, and the other end of the radiator 61 is connected to a continuously variable water pump 52. One end of the return water pipe 70 is connected to the first flow regulator 41, and the other end of the return water pipe 70 is connected to the continuously variable water pump 52. The thermostatic valve 62 is located in the pipeline between the first flow regulator 41 and the radiator 61.

[0105] The radiator 61 is primarily used to dissipate heat and lower the temperature of the coolant. After cooling the cylinder 10, the coolant is still quite hot. Circulating it back to cool the cylinder 10 would be ineffective and fail to achieve proper cooling. However, with the radiator 61, the coolant flowing through the cylinder 10 flows to the radiator 61. As the coolant flows through the radiator 61, it transfers heat to the walls of the radiator 61, and through contact with the air, it dissipates the heat into the surrounding air, thus achieving cooling.

[0106] See Figure 4 As shown, after determining the engine's operating stage based on temperature parameters, the process also includes:

[0107] In step S50, when the engine temperature reaches the second temperature threshold, the thermostat valve 62 is opened.

[0108] To conserve heat, the thermostat valve 62 is closed, and the coolant passing through cylinder 10 flows directly back to the continuously variable water pump 52 without passing through radiator 61. This portion of coolant, having passed through the cylinder head, is at a higher temperature. The continuously variable water pump 52 pumps this warm coolant to the oil cooler 90, raising its temperature, and the oil cooler 90 then transfers heat to the engine oil. When the engine temperature exceeds the second temperature threshold, it indicates that the engine has generated excess heat that is difficult to utilize and needs to be dissipated promptly. Therefore, the thermostat valve 62 opens, and the warmer coolant flows through radiator 61, where the excess heat is dissipated.

[0109] In this case, if the heating device still has a heating demand, the heating valve 83 can be kept open to continuously transfer the engine heat to the heating device.

[0110] In another aspect, the engine cooling system also includes: a first water outlet valve 43 and a second water outlet valve 44. The first water outlet valve 43 is located in the first water outlet pipe 31 and between the first flow regulator 41 and the cylinder block 110. The second water outlet valve 44 is located in the second water outlet pipe 32 and between the second flow regulator 42 and the cylinder block 110.

[0111] See Figure 5 As shown, the steps for controlling the flow rate of coolant in the first outlet pipe 31 and the second outlet pipe 32 according to the engine's operating stage include:

[0112] Step S31: When the water temperature in the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110 is higher than the third temperature threshold, control the first water outlet valve 43 to open.

[0113] In step S32, when the water temperature in the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 is higher than the third temperature threshold, the second water outlet valve 44 is opened, wherein the second temperature threshold is lower than the third temperature threshold.

[0114] The upper section 111 and the lower section 112 of the cylinder block 110 are controlled separately and independently. When the third temperature threshold is reached, the corresponding valve can be opened to prevent the upper section 111 or the lower section 112 from deforming too severely.

[0115] Specifically, the first outlet valve 43 can control the opening and closing of the first outlet pipe 31, and the second outlet valve 44 can control the opening and closing of the second outlet pipe 32.

[0116] For example, when the temperature of the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110 is low, the connection between the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110 and the first flow regulator 41 is disconnected through the first water outlet valve 43, thereby increasing the temperature of the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110. When the temperature of the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110 is high, the connection between the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110 and the first flow regulator 41 is reconnected through the first water outlet valve 43, thereby decreasing the temperature of the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110.

[0117] When the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 is low, the connection between the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 and the second flow regulator 42 is disconnected through the second water outlet valve 44, thereby increasing the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110. When the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 is high, the connection between the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 and the second flow regulator 42 is reconnected through the second water outlet valve 44, thereby decreasing the temperature of the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110.

[0118] This application also provides a vehicle including a frame and an engine cooling system, the frame forming a support space, and the engine cooling system disposed within the support space. The frame also protects the engine cooling system.

[0119] Specifically, the engine cooling system includes: cylinder 10, first water inlet pipe 21, first water outlet pipe 31 and second water outlet pipe 32; the cooled cylinder 10 includes cylinder block 110, the inlet of the first water inlet pipe 21 is used to receive coolant for cooling cylinder block 110, and the outlet of the first water inlet pipe 21 is connected to cylinder block 110; coolant usually refers to water, but also includes a mixture of antifreeze.

[0120] When the engine is running, the upper half 111 and the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 generate different amounts of heat. The upper half 111 and lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110 refer to the upper and lower ends parallel to the direction of piston movement during normal engine operation. The end furthest from the piston is the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110, and the end closest to the piston is the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110. To ensure more uniform deformation in the upper half 111 and lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110, a first water outlet pipe 31 is located in the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110, and a second water outlet pipe 32 is located in the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110. A first water inlet pipe 21 is connected to both the first water inlet pipe 31 and the second water outlet pipe 32, and the connection point is located within the cylinder block 110.

[0121] The first water inlet pipe 21, the first water outlet pipe 31, and the second water outlet pipe 32 are typically connected within the cylinder block 110, where heat exchange occurs. To increase the contact area, the first water inlet pipe 21, the first water outlet pipe 31, and the second water outlet pipe 32 are typically arranged around the inner or outer wall of the cylinder block 110. This allows the coolant to flow along the wall of the cylinder block 110, carrying away more heat.

[0122] In this embodiment of the vehicle, the coolant cooling the cylinder block 110 enters through the first inlet pipe 21 and flows out through the first outlet pipe 31 and the second outlet pipe 32. As the coolant flows through the cylinder block 110, it carries away the heat from the cylinder block 110. Since the first outlet pipe 31 is located in the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110, and the second outlet pipe 32 is located in the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110, the coolant in the first outlet pipe 31 can carry away the heat from the upper half 111 of the cylinder block 110, and the coolant in the second outlet pipe 32 can carry away the heat from the lower half 112 of the cylinder block 110. Therefore, this technical solution can further reduce uneven thermal deformation of the cylinder block 110, reduce air leakage, and thus ensure stable engine output power. It also further reduces the increased friction loss between the piston and cylinder 10 caused by deformation.

[0123] Although this application has been described with reference to several typical embodiments, it should be understood that the terminology used is illustrative and exemplary, and not restrictive. Since this application can be embodied in many forms without departing from the spirit or essence of the invention, it should be understood that the above embodiments are not limited to any of the foregoing details, but should be interpreted broadly within the spirit and scope defined by the appended claims. Therefore, all variations and modifications falling within the scope of the claims or their equivalents should be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An engine cooling system, characterized in that, The engine cooling system includes: A cylinder, the cylinder including a cylinder body; The first water inlet pipe has an inlet for receiving coolant to cool the cylinder block, and an outlet for connecting to the cylinder block. A first water outlet pipe and a second water outlet pipe, wherein the first water outlet pipe is located in the upper half of the cylinder body and the second water outlet pipe is located in the lower half of the cylinder body, and the first water inlet pipe is connected to both the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe, and the connection point is located in the cylinder body, wherein the first water inlet pipe, the first water outlet pipe and the second water outlet pipe are arranged around the inner wall or the outer wall of the cylinder body. A first flow regulator and a second flow regulator, wherein the first flow regulator is disposed in the first outlet pipe and the second flow regulator is disposed in the second outlet pipe; and A first water outlet valve and a second water outlet valve are provided. The first water outlet valve is located in the first water outlet pipe and between the first flow regulator and the cylinder body. The second water outlet valve is located in the second water outlet pipe and between the second flow regulator and the cylinder body.

2. The engine cooling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The engine cooling system further includes a water tank and a continuously variable water pump, wherein the water tank is connected to the continuously variable water pump, and the continuously variable water pump is connected to the first water inlet pipe.

3. The engine cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The engine cooling system further includes a radiator, one end of which is connected to the first flow regulator and the second flow regulator, and the other end of which is connected to the stepless water pump.

4. The engine cooling system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The engine cooling system includes a thermostatic valve located in the pipeline between the first flow regulator and the radiator.

5. The engine cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The engine cooling system includes a return water pipe, one end of which is connected to the first flow regulator, and the other end of which is connected to the stepless water pump.

6. The engine cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cylinder also includes a cylinder head, which covers the upper half of the cylinder body; The engine cooling system also includes: The second water inlet pipe has its inlet connected to the continuously variable water pump and its outlet connected to the cylinder head; and The cover water outlet pipe has one end connected to the cylinder head and communicates with the second water inlet pipe inside the cylinder head, and the other end connected to the first flow regulator.

7. The engine cooling system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The engine cooling system includes: Heating device; A heating pipe, one end of which is connected to the water outlet pipe of the cover, and the other end of which is connected to the heating device; and A heating return water pipe, one end of which is connected to the heating device, and the other end of which is connected to the first flow regulator.

8. The engine cooling system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The engine cooling system includes a heating valve, which is located in the heater pipe.

9. The engine cooling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The engine cooling system includes: An oil cooler, wherein the oil cooler is used to reduce the temperature of the engine oil; A cooler water supply pipe, one end of which is connected to the stepless water pump, and the other end of which is connected to the oil cooler; An oil return pipe is provided, with one end connected to the oil cooler and the other end connected to the first flow regulator.

10. A control method for an engine cooling system, characterized in that, The control method is used to control the engine cooling system as described in claim 1, and the control method includes: Obtain the temperature parameters of the engine; The operating stage of the engine is determined based on the temperature parameters; The flow rates of coolant in the first and second water outlet pipes are controlled according to the engine's operating stage. The step of controlling the flow rate of coolant in the first outlet pipe and the second outlet pipe according to the engine's operating stage includes: When the water temperature in the upper half of the cylinder block is higher than the third temperature threshold, the first water outlet valve is opened. When the water temperature in the lower half of the cylinder block is higher than the third temperature threshold, the second water outlet valve is opened, wherein the third temperature threshold is greater than the second temperature threshold.

11. The control method for an engine cooling system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The cylinder also includes a cylinder head, which covers the upper half of the cylinder body; The engine cooling system includes: a water tank, a continuously variable water pump, a second water inlet pipe, a cover water outlet pipe, and a heating valve. The water tank is connected to the continuously variable water pump, the continuously variable water pump is connected to the first water inlet pipe, the inlet of the second water inlet pipe is connected to the continuously variable water pump, the outlet of the second water inlet pipe is connected to the cylinder head, one end of the cover water outlet pipe is connected to the cylinder head and communicates with the second water inlet pipe inside the cylinder head, and the other end of the cover water outlet pipe is connected to the first flow regulator. The engine cooling system further includes: a heater, a heater supply pipe and a heater return pipe. One end of the heater supply pipe is connected to the cover outlet pipe and the other end is connected to the heater. One end of the heater return pipe is connected to the heater and the other end is connected to the first flow regulator. The heating valve is located in the heater supply pipe. After determining the engine's operating stage based on the temperature parameters, the process includes: When the engine temperature is below a first temperature threshold, it is determined that the engine is operating in the warm-up phase, and the heating valve is closed. When the engine temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold and lower than the second temperature threshold, the heating valve is opened in response to heating, wherein the first temperature threshold is less than the second temperature threshold.

12. The control method for an engine cooling system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The engine cooling system further includes: a radiator, a return water pipe and a thermostatic valve. One end of the radiator is connected to the first flow regulator and the second flow regulator respectively, and the other end of the radiator is connected to the infinitely variable water pump. One end of the return water pipe is connected to the first flow regulator, and the other end of the return water pipe is connected to the infinitely variable water pump. The thermostatic valve is located in the pipeline between the first flow regulator and the radiator. After the step of determining the engine's operating stage based on the temperature parameter, the method further includes: When the engine temperature reaches the second temperature threshold, the thermostat valve is controlled to open.

13. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a frame and an engine cooling system as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, the frame forming a support space, and the engine cooling system disposed within the support space.

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