System and apparatus for fluid heat exchanger including venturi flow channel

Abstract

A fluid heat exchanger includes a first plate, an inlet port, an outlet port, and a plurality of diverters. The diverter is arranged orthogonally to the first plate and is arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port. The diverter and the first plate form a plurality of venturi flow channels arranged in parallel. The diverters are arranged in a diverter pair with a first one of the diverters having a first surface defining a first waveform and a second one of the diverters having a second surface defining a second waveform. The second surface is symmetrically opposed to the first surface along the longitudinal axis. This arrangement defines a venturi flow passage in which flow restricting elements and expansion chambers are alternately arranged in series between the inlet port and the outlet port.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Power electronic devices, such as those used for the operation and control of electric motors / generators, generate heat during operation. A thermal management system, including a heat dissipation device, is deployed on the power electronic device to transfer and remove heat. This can include an ambient air-based system or fluid loop coupled to a second heat exchanger, such as an air / fluid radiator. The fluid loop on the heat dissipation device can include meandering flow channels, which have low thermal and flow efficiency due to pressure drop, flow rate, etc. A trade-off also exists between flow rate and pressure drop. By way of example, an increased coolant flow rate can reduce thermal resistance and thus lower the temperature of the power device. However, a higher flow rate can increase pressure drop, increase the load and output power of the coolant pump, thereby increasing the electrical power load and reducing the efficiency of such a system. Summary of the Invention

[0002] The concepts described herein relate to a system, apparatus, and / or method relating to a novel fluid heat exchanger, a cooling system for solid-state electronic power modules, and an electrified drive system for a vehicle having a fluid cooling circuit incorporating a fluid heat exchanger.

[0003] One aspect of this disclosure may include a fluid heat exchanger comprising a first plate, a second plate, an inlet port, an outlet port, and a plurality of distributors. The first plate is thermally coupled to a heat source; the plurality of distributors are arranged orthogonally to the first plate and orthogonally to the second plate; the plurality of distributors are arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; the plurality of distributors, the first plate, and the second plate form a plurality of Venturi flow channels arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; the plurality of distributors are arranged as a plurality of distributor pairs, each distributor pair including a first distributor and a second distributor; the first distributor includes a first surface defining a first waveform; the second distributor includes a second surface defining a second waveform; the second surface is symmetrically opposite to the first surface along a longitudinal axis defined between the inlet port and the outlet port; the second surface symmetrically opposite to the first surface defines a plurality of flow-limiting elements and a plurality of expansion chambers in the Venturi flow channels; and the plurality of flow-limiting elements and the plurality of expansion chambers are alternately arranged in series between the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0004] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a plurality of pins attached to and orthogonally projecting from a first plate, wherein the plurality of pins are disposed in a plurality of expansion chambers.

[0005] Another aspect of this disclosure may include each of a plurality of pins that are cylindrical in shape.

[0006] Another aspect of this disclosure may include each of a plurality of pins in the shape of a truncated cone.

[0007] Another aspect of this disclosure may include each of a plurality of pins made of a thermally conductive material.

[0008] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a plurality of pins attached to a second plate.

[0009] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a first waveform defined as a sinusoidal waveform by a first shunt and a second waveform defined as a sinusoidal waveform by a second shunt.

[0010] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a first waveform defined as a trapezoidal waveform by a first shunt and a second waveform defined as a trapezoidal waveform by a second shunt.

[0011] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a first plate formed of a thermally conductive material.

[0012] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a second plate made of a thermally conductive material.

[0013] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a second plate made of insulating material.

[0014] Another aspect of this disclosure may include each of a plurality of shunts made of thermally conductive material.

[0015] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a plurality of splitters arranged in parallel and parallel to a longitudinal axis defined between an inlet port and an outlet port.

[0016] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a plurality of splitters arranged in parallel and transverse to the longitudinal axis defined between the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0017] Another aspect of this disclosure may include a cooling system for a solid-state electronic power module, the cooling system comprising an embodiment having a fluid heat exchanger, a pump, a radiator, and a reservoir, wherein the fluid circuit contains a heat transfer fluid.

[0018] Another aspect of this disclosure may include an electrified drive system for a vehicle, the electrified drive system including a DC power source, a multiphase power inverter, a multiphase rotating motor, a torque actuator, and a cooling system, wherein the multiphase power inverter includes a solid-state electronic power module. A fluid circuit includes an embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger, a pump, a radiator, and a reservoir, wherein the fluid circuit contains a heat transfer fluid.

[0019] This application may also include the following options: Option 1. A fluid heat exchanger, comprising: First board, second board, inlet port, outlet port, and multiple splitters; The first plate can be thermally connected to a heat source; The plurality of splitters are arranged orthogonally to the first plate and orthogonally to the second plate; The plurality of splitters are arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of diverters, the first plate, and the second plate form a plurality of Venturi flow channels arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of splitters are arranged into a plurality of splitter pairs, and each splitter pair includes a first splitter and a second splitter among the plurality of splitters; The first shunt of the plurality of shunts includes a first surface defining a first waveform; The second shunt in the plurality of shunts includes a second surface defining a second waveform; The second surface is symmetrically opposite the first surface along a longitudinal axis defined between the inlet port and the outlet port; The second surface, symmetrically opposite to the first surface, defines a plurality of flow-limiting elements and a plurality of expansion chambers in the Venturi flow channel; and The plurality of current-limiting elements and the plurality of expansion chambers are alternately arranged in series between the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0020] Option 2. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 1 further includes a plurality of pins attached to and orthogonally projecting from the first plate, wherein the plurality of pins are disposed in the plurality of expansion chambers.

[0021] Option 3. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 2, wherein each of the plurality of pins is cylindrical.

[0022] Option 4. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 2, wherein each of the plurality of pins has a truncated conical shape.

[0023] Option 5. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 2, wherein each of the plurality of pins is made of a thermally conductive material.

[0024] Option 6. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 2 further includes the plurality of pins attached to the second plate.

[0025] Option 7. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 1, wherein the first waveform defined by the first splitter of the plurality of splitters includes a sine waveform, and the second waveform defined by the second splitter of the plurality of splitters includes a sine waveform.

[0026] Option 8. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 1, wherein the first waveform defined by the first splitter of the plurality of splitters includes a trapezoidal waveform, and the second waveform defined by the second splitter of the plurality of splitters includes a trapezoidal waveform.

[0027] Option 9. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 1, wherein the first plate is formed of a thermally conductive material.

[0028] Option 10. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 1, wherein the second plate is made of a thermally conductive material.

[0029] Option 11. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 1, wherein the second plate is made of an insulating material.

[0030] Option 12. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 1, wherein each of the plurality of splitters is made of a thermally conductive material.

[0031] Option 13. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 1 further includes the plurality of splitters, the plurality of splitters being arranged in parallel and parallel to the longitudinal axis defined between the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0032] Option 14. The fluid heat exchanger according to Option 1 further includes the plurality of splitters, which are arranged in parallel and transverse to the longitudinal axis defined between the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0033] Option 15. A cooling system for a solid-state electronic power module, comprising: A fluid circuit, comprising a fluid heat exchanger, a pump, a radiator, and a storage tank, wherein the fluid circuit contains a heat transfer fluid; The fluid heat exchanger includes a first plate, an inlet port, an outlet port, and multiple distributors. The first board is thermally connected to the solid-state electronic power module; The plurality of splitters are arranged orthogonally to the first plate; The plurality of splitters are arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of diverters and the first plate form a plurality of Venturi flow channels arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of splitters are arranged into a plurality of splitter pairs, and each splitter pair includes a first splitter and a second splitter among the plurality of splitters; The first shunt of the plurality of shunts includes a first surface defining a first waveform; The second shunt in the plurality of shunts includes a second surface defining a second waveform; The second surface is symmetrically opposite the first surface along a longitudinal axis defined between the inlet port and the outlet port; The second surface, symmetrically opposite to the first surface, defines a plurality of flow-limiting elements and a plurality of expansion chambers in the Venturi flow channel; and The plurality of current-limiting elements and the plurality of expansion chambers are alternately arranged in series between the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0034] Option 16. The cooling system according to Option 15 further includes a plurality of pins attached to and projecting orthogonally from the first plate, wherein the plurality of pins are disposed in the plurality of expansion chambers.

[0035] Option 17. The cooling system according to Option 15, wherein the first waveform defined by the first shunt includes a sine wave, and the second waveform defined by the second waveform includes a sine wave.

[0036] Option 18. The cooling system according to Option 15, wherein the first waveform defined by the first splitter includes a trapezoidal waveform, and the second waveform defined by the second splitter includes a trapezoidal waveform.

[0037] Option 19. The cooling system according to Option 15, wherein the first plate is formed of a thermally conductive material.

[0038] Option 20. An electrified drive system for a vehicle, comprising: DC power source, multiphase power inverter, multiphase rotating motor, torque actuator and cooling system; The multiphase power inverter includes a solid-state electronic power module; A fluid circuit, comprising a fluid heat exchanger, a pump, a radiator, and a storage tank, wherein the fluid circuit contains a heat transfer fluid; The fluid heat exchanger includes a first plate, a second plate, an inlet port, an outlet port, and multiple distributors. The first board is thermally connected to the solid-state electronic power module; The plurality of splitters are arranged orthogonally to the first plate and orthogonally to the second plate; The plurality of splitters are arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of splitters, the first plate and the second plate form a plurality of Venturi flow channels arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of splitters are arranged into a plurality of splitter pairs, and each splitter pair includes a first splitter and a second splitter among the plurality of splitters; The first shunt of the plurality of shunts includes a first surface defining a first waveform; The second shunt in the plurality of shunts includes a second surface defining a second waveform; The second surface is symmetrically opposite to the first surface along a longitudinal axis defined between the inlet port and the outlet port; The second surface, symmetrically opposite to the first surface, defines a plurality of flow-limiting elements and a plurality of expansion chambers in the Venturi flow channel; and The plurality of current-limiting elements and the plurality of expansion chambers are alternately arranged in series between the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0039] When considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the above-described features and advantages of this teaching, as well as other features and advantages, as defined in the appended claims, will readily become apparent from the following detailed description of some of the best modes and other embodiments for carrying out this teaching. Attached Figure Description

[0040] One or more embodiments will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 The diagram schematically illustrates an electrified drive system according to the present disclosure, comprising a multiphase motor, a DC power source, a power inverter, and a fluid heat exchanger.

[0041] Figure 2 The diagram schematically illustrates a heat exchange system that is thermally connected to a power module of a power inverter according to the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 3C and Figure 3D The illustration schematically shows a cross-sectional side view of a power module and a fluid heat exchanger according to the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 4 The illustration schematically shows an isometric cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger according to the present disclosure, comprising a plurality of Venturi flow channels formed between the distributors.

[0044] Figure 5The illustration schematically shows an isometric cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger according to the present disclosure, including a plurality of Venturi flow channels formed between the distributors.

[0045] Figure 6 The illustration schematically shows an isometric cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger according to the present disclosure, including a plurality of Venturi flow channels formed between the distributors.

[0046] Figure 7 The illustration schematically shows a cross-sectional plan view of an embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger having a transverse flow axis according to the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 8 The illustration schematically shows a cross-sectional plan view of an embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger having a longitudinal flow axis according to the present disclosure.

[0048] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and present a simplified representation to some extent of the various features of the present disclosure as disclosed herein, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes. Details associated with such features will be determined in part by the specific intended application and environment of use. Detailed Implementation

[0049] As described and illustrated herein, the components of the disclosed embodiments can be arranged and designed in a variety of different configurations. Therefore, the following detailed description is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure as claimed, but merely represents possible embodiments thereof. Furthermore, although numerous specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, some embodiments may be practiced without some of these details. Additionally, for clarity, certain technical material understood in the related art has not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring this disclosure. Moreover, as described and illustrated herein, this disclosure may be practiced without elements not specifically disclosed herein.

[0050] This disclosure is susceptible to many different forms of embodiments. Representative examples of this disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings and are described herein as non-limiting examples of the disclosed principles. For that purpose, elements and limitations described herein but not expressly set forth in the claims will not be incorporated into the claims, alone or in combination, by implication, inference or otherwise.

[0051] For the purposes of this description, unless expressly denied, the use of the singular includes the plural, and vice versa; the terms “and” and “or” should be both conjunction and disjunction; and the terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” etc., should mean “including, but not limited to.” Furthermore, approximate words such as “about,” “almost,” “substantially,” “generally,” “approximately,” etc., may be used herein in the sense of “being, near, or close to being…,” “within 0-5% of…,” “within acceptable manufacturing tolerances,” or logical combinations thereof.

[0052] As used herein, the term “system” means, individually or in combination, mechanical and electrical hardware, software, firmware, electronic control components, processing logic and / or processor devices, including but not limited to: application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), electronic circuits, processors (shared, dedicated or combined) that execute one or more software or firmware programs, memory devices(s) that electrically store software or firmware instructions, combinational logic circuits and / or other components that provide the described functionality.

[0053] As used herein, terms such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “left,” “right,” “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” and similar expressions are non-limiting terms that merely describe the various elements illustrated in the figures and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0054] As used herein, the term "electric motor" refers to an electric motor / generator device comprising a rotor and a stator, capable of converting electrical power into mechanical power and / or mechanical power into electrical power through electromagnetic effects.

[0055] Referring to the accompanying drawings, similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar components in several figures. Figure 1 The diagram schematically illustrates the components of an electrified drive system 100, which comprises a DC power source 102, a multiphase power inverter 104, a multiphase rotating electric motor / generator (motor) 10, and a torque actuator 115, the operation of which is monitored and controlled by a controller 130. Components of a heat exchange system 200 are thermally connected to components of the multiphase power inverter 104.

[0056] In one embodiment, the electrified drivetrain 100 is arranged to generate torque and transmit it to a torque actuator 115, which may be in the form of one or more drive wheels, to function when employed on a vehicle, for example, for propulsion. A controller 130 executes control routines to control and manage the operation of the multiphase power inverter 104. In one embodiment, the electrified drivetrain 100 is provided on a vehicle and is capable of generating traction torque for propulsion of the vehicle. When provided on a vehicle, the vehicle may include, but is not limited to, mobile platforms in the form of commercial vehicles, industrial vehicles, agricultural vehicles, passenger vehicles, aircraft, boats, trains, all-terrain vehicles, personal mobile devices, robots, etc., to achieve the purposes of this disclosure. Non-limiting examples of vehicles employing the electrified drivetrain 100 include electric vehicles (EVs) and various hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). Alternatively, the electrified drivetrain 100 may be an element of a stationary system.

[0057] The controller 130 may be implemented as one or more digital computing devices and may include one or more processors 134 and memory 132. Control routines 136 may be stored as an executable instruction set in memory 132 and executed by one of the processors 134 of the controller 130. The controller 130 communicates with the multiphase power inverter 104 to control its operation to operate the motor 10 in response to the execution of control routines 136.

[0058] The motor 10 includes a cylindrical rotor assembly arranged on a rotor shaft and disposed within an annular stator, wherein the rotor assembly is coaxial with a rotor opening formed in the stator. Other components of the motor may include, for example, end caps, shaft bearings, electrical connections, etc. The stator's electrical windings are arranged to have a number of electrical phases and a number of turns per phase. Depending on the specific arrangement, the number of electrical phases may be between 3 and 6, and the number of conductor layers may be between 4 and 12. In one embodiment, the motor 10 is an internal permanent magnet (IPM) device.

[0059] The multiphase power inverter 104 includes one or more power modules 120 adjacent to and thermally connected to the elements of the heat exchange system 200. Each power module 120 comprises a plurality of semiconductor switches arranged and controllable to convert DC power to AC power and vice versa using a pulse width modulation signal 108 or other control techniques. The multiphase power inverter 104 is arranged and controllable to convert DC power from a DC power source 102 into AC power to actuate a motor 10 via electromagnetic effects. The motor 10 is controllable to rotate and generate mechanical torque, which, when operating in torque generation mode, is transmitted to a torque actuator 115 via a rotatable member 112 and a gear train 114. The motor 10 is controllable to generate AC power from mechanical torque originating from the torque actuator 115 via electromagnetic effects. When operating in power generation mode, the AC power is converted into DC power by the multiphase power inverter 104 and stored in the DC power source 102. In one embodiment, the torque actuator 115 includes a wheel of a vehicle that, as part of a traction propulsion system, transmits torque to the ground to achieve forward motion.

[0060] DC power source 102 may be a rechargeable electrochemical battery device, fuel cell, supercapacitor and / or other energy storage / generation technology. DC power source 102 is connected to multiphase power inverter 104 via high-voltage DC bus 103, and multiphase power inverter 104 is connected to motor 10 via multiple power lines 106.

[0061] Figure 2 The illustration schematically depicts an embodiment of the components of a heat exchange system 200, which is integrated into a reference. Figure 1 The multiphase power inverter 104 described herein comprises multiple power modules 120. For the purpose of illustrating the concepts described herein, a single power module among the power modules 120 is shown.

[0062] The heat exchange system 200 includes a fluid loop consisting of embodiments of a fluid pump 210, a reservoir 212, an air / fluid heat exchanger (radiator) 214, and a fluid heat exchanger 220, which are fluidly connected in a closed loop via a conduit 215. A heat transfer fluid or coolant, consisting of water, ethylene glycol, and / or other thermally conductive fluid materials, circulates therein. Embodiments of the fluid heat exchanger 220 are thermally connected to one of the power modules 120.

[0063] Figure 3AThe diagram schematically illustrates a cross-sectional side view of one embodiment of the power module 120 and the fluid heat exchanger 220, wherein the side view is defined orthogonal to a longitudinal flow axis 205, which is defined by the direction of fluid flow through the fluid heat exchanger 220.

[0064] The power module 120 comprises a plurality of power semiconductor switches 122. In one embodiment, the power semiconductor switch 122 is a field-effect transistor (FET). In one embodiment, the FET is a GaN (gallium nitride) transistor. In one embodiment, the power semiconductor switch 122 is an integrated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT).

[0065] In this embodiment, the power semiconductor switch 122 is coupled to a substrate 124, which is thermally connected to an embodiment of the fluid heat exchanger 220. In some embodiments, the power module 120 may also be thermally connected to an embodiment of the fluid heat exchanger 220.

[0066] In this embodiment, the fluid heat exchanger 220 includes a first plate portion 221, a second plate portion 222 arranged parallel to the first plate portion 221, and a plurality of distributors 224 arranged parallel between a first or inlet end 225 and a second or outlet end 226. The second plate portion 222 does not contact the plurality of distributors 224. This arrangement of the first plate portion 221, the second plate portion 222, and the plurality of distributors 224 forms an open chamber 227 and a plurality of Venturi flow channels 228, wherein the plurality of Venturi flow channels 228 are arranged parallel between the first or inlet end 225 and the second or outlet end 226. (See reference) Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 Additional details are described involving multiple Venturi flow channels 228.

[0067] Figure 3B The diagram schematically illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the power module 120 and another embodiment of the fluid heat exchanger 230, wherein the side view is defined orthogonal to a longitudinal axis defined by the direction of fluid flow through the fluid heat exchanger 230. The power module 120 comprises a plurality of power semiconductor switches 122. In this embodiment, the power semiconductor switches 122 are coupled to a substrate 124 thermally connected to an embodiment of the fluid heat exchanger 230.

[0068] In this embodiment, the fluid heat exchanger 230 includes a first plate portion 231, a second plate portion 232 arranged parallel to the first plate portion 231, and a plurality of distributors 234 arranged parallel between a first or inlet end 235 and a second or outlet end 236. The second plate portion 232 contacts the plurality of distributors 234. This arrangement of the first plate portion 231, the second plate portion 232, and the plurality of distributors 234 forms a plurality of Venturi flow channels 238, wherein the plurality of Venturi flow channels 238 are arranged parallel between the first or inlet end 235 and the second or outlet end 236. (Reference) Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 Additional details are described involving multiple Venturi flow channels 238. In one embodiment, the second plate portion 232 is made of a thermally conductive material. In another embodiment, the second plate portion 232 may be made of a thermally insulating material.

[0069] Figure 3C The diagram schematically illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the power module 120 and the fluid heat exchanger 240, wherein the side view is defined orthogonal to a longitudinal axis defined by the direction of fluid flow through the fluid heat exchanger 240. The power module 120 comprises a plurality of power semiconductor switches 122.

[0070] In this embodiment, the power semiconductor switch 122 is thermally connected to the fluid heat exchanger 240 via a substrate 124, which includes a first plate portion 241 of the fluid heat exchanger 240. In other words, the fluid heat exchanger 240 is integrated into the power module 120 for heat transfer.

[0071] In this embodiment, the fluid heat exchanger 240 includes a first plate 241, a second plate 242 arranged parallel to the first plate 241, and a plurality of distributors 244 arranged parallel between a first or inlet end 245 and a second or outlet end 246. The second plate 242 does not contact the plurality of distributors 244. This arrangement of the first plate 241, the second plate 242, and the plurality of distributors 244 forms an open chamber 247 and a plurality of Venturi flow channels 248, wherein the plurality of Venturi flow channels 248 are arranged parallel between the first or inlet end 245 and the second or outlet end 246. (Reference) Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 Additional details are described involving multiple Venturi flow channels 248.

[0072] Figure 3DThe diagram schematically illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the power module 120 and the fluid heat exchanger 250, wherein the side view is defined orthogonally to a longitudinal axis defined by the direction of fluid flow through the fluid heat exchanger 250. The power module 120 comprises a plurality of power semiconductor switches 122.

[0073] In this embodiment, the power semiconductor switch 122 is thermally connected to the fluid heat exchanger 250. In other words, the fluid heat exchanger 250 is integrated into the power module 120 for heat transfer.

[0074] In this embodiment, the fluid heat exchanger 250 includes a first plate 251, a second plate 252 arranged parallel to the first plate 251, and a plurality of distributors 254 arranged parallel between a first or inlet end 255 and a second or outlet end 256. The second plate 252 contacts the plurality of distributors 254. This arrangement of the first plate 251, the second plate 252, and the plurality of distributors 254 forms a plurality of Venturi flow channels 258, wherein the plurality of Venturi flow channels 238 are arranged parallel between the first or inlet end 255 and the second or outlet end 256. (Reference) Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 Additional details are described involving multiple Venturi flow channels 258.

[0075] Figure 4 The illustration schematically depicts a portion of an embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger 420, which includes a first plate 421 and a plurality of distributors 424 arranged in parallel between a first inlet end 425 and a second outlet end 426. A plurality of Venturi tube flow channels 428 are formed between the distributors 424 and define a longitudinal axis 405. The first plate 421 and the plurality of distributors 424 are made of aluminum, copper, or other thermally conductive materials.

[0076] The first plate 421 is thermally connected to a heat source, such as a reference. Figure 2 The described solid-state power electronic module or device. A plurality of shunts 424 are arranged orthogonally to a first plate 421. The plurality of shunts 424 are arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis 405 between a first end 425 associated with an inlet port and a second end 426 associated with an outlet port. The plurality of shunts 424 and the first plate 421 form a plurality of Venturi flow channels 428, which are arranged parallel to each other between the inlet and outlet ports.

[0077] For illustrative purposes, the plurality of splitters 424 may be arranged into a plurality of splitter pairs 430, wherein each splitter pair 430 includes a first splitter among a plurality of splitters 431 and a second splitter among a plurality of splitters 432. One pair of the plurality of splitter pairs 430 is indicated. The first splitter among the plurality of splitters 431 includes a first surface 433 defining a first waveform 435, wherein the first waveform 435 appears relative to a longitudinal axis 405. The second splitter among the plurality of splitters 432 includes a second surface 434 defining a second waveform 436, wherein the second waveform 436 appears relative to a longitudinal axis 405. The second surface 434 is symmetrically opposite to the first surface 433 along the longitudinal axis 405. The second surface 434, symmetrically opposite to the first surface 433, defines a plurality of flow-limiting elements 437 and a plurality of expansion chambers 438 in a Venturi flow channel 428. Multiple current-limiting elements 437 and multiple expansion chambers 438 are alternately arranged in series between the first end 425 and the second end 426.

[0078] In this embodiment, the first surface 433 and the second surface 434 are arranged to have a trapezoidal shape, such that the first waveform 435 and the second waveform 436 have a trapezoidal shape.

[0079] Each of the flow-limiting elements 437 arranged in series with the expansion chamber 438 in the Venturi flow channel 428 can advantageously generate a Venturi effect during fluid flow, wherein the fluid velocity in the flow-limiting element 437 increases and the fluid velocity in the expansion chamber 438 decreases. This arrangement will facilitate heat transfer between the fluid and the first plate 421 and the plurality of flow dividers 424.

[0080] Design considerations include the choice of fluid / coolant and associated viscosity, the flow rate required for laminar flow, pressure, and other factors.

[0081] This arrangement provides controlled venturi and laminar coolant flow, which introduces viscous damping into the structure to reduce noise and vibration (NVH) associated with the operation of the power modules.

[0082] Figure 5 The illustration schematically shows details of an embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger 520, which includes a first plate 521 and a plurality of distributors 524 arranged in parallel between a first inlet end 525 and a second outlet end 526. A plurality of venturi tube flow channels 528 are formed between the distributors 524 and define a longitudinal axis 505.

[0083] The first plate 521 is thermally connected to a heat source, such as a reference. Figure 2The described solid-state power electronic module or device. A plurality of shunts 524 are arranged orthogonally to a first plate 521. The plurality of shunts 524 are arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis 505 between a first end 525 associated with an inlet port and a second end 526 associated with an outlet port. The plurality of shunts 524 and the first plate 521 form a plurality of Venturi flow channels 528, which are arranged parallel to each other between the inlet and outlet ports.

[0084] For illustrative purposes, the plurality of splitters 524 may be arranged into a plurality of splitter pairs 530, wherein each splitter pair 530 includes a first splitter in a plurality of splitters 531 and a second splitter in a plurality of splitters 532. One pair of the plurality of splitter pairs 530 is indicated. The first splitter in the plurality of splitters 531 includes a first surface 533 defining a first waveform 535, wherein the first waveform 535 appears relative to a longitudinal axis 505. The second splitter in the plurality of splitters 532 includes a second surface 534 defining a second waveform 536, wherein the second waveform 536 appears relative to a longitudinal axis 505. The second surface 534 is symmetrically opposite to the first surface 533 along the longitudinal axis 505. The second surface 534, symmetrically opposite to the first surface 533, defines a plurality of flow-limiting elements 537 and a plurality of expansion chambers 538 in a Venturi flow channel 528. Multiple current-limiting elements 537 and multiple expansion chambers 538 are alternately arranged in series between the first end 525 and the second end 526.

[0085] In this embodiment, the first surface 533 and the second surface 534 are arranged to have a sinusoidal shape, such that the first waveform 535 and the second waveform 536 have a sinusoidal shape.

[0086] Each of the flow-limiting elements 537 arranged in series with the expansion chamber 538 in the Venturi flow channel 528 can advantageously generate a Venturi effect during fluid flow, wherein the fluid velocity in the flow-limiting element 537 increases and the fluid velocity in the expansion chamber 538 decreases. This arrangement will facilitate heat transfer between the fluid and the first plate 521 and the plurality of distributors 524.

[0087] Design considerations include the choice of fluid / coolant and associated viscosity, the flow rate required for laminar flow, pressure, and other factors.

[0088] This arrangement provides controlled venturi and laminar coolant flow, which introduces viscous damping into the structure to reduce noise and vibration (NVH) associated with the operation of the power modules.

[0089] Figure 6The illustration schematically shows details of an embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger 620, which includes a first plate 621 and a plurality of branch outlets 624 arranged in parallel between a first inlet end 625 and a second outlet end 626. A plurality of venturi flow channels 628 are formed between the branch outlets 624 and define a longitudinal axis 605.

[0090] The first plate 621 is thermally connected to a heat source, such as a reference. Figure 2 The described solid-state power electronic module or device. A plurality of shunts 624 are arranged orthogonally to a first plate 621. The plurality of shunts 624 are arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis 605 between a first end 625 associated with an inlet port and a second end 626 associated with an outlet port. The plurality of shunts 624 and the first plate 621 form a plurality of Venturi flow channels 628, which are arranged parallel to each other between the inlet and outlet ports.

[0091] For illustrative purposes, the plurality of splitters 624 may be arranged into a plurality of splitter pairs 630, wherein each splitter pair 630 includes a first splitter among a plurality of splitters 631 and a second splitter among a plurality of splitters 632. One pair of the plurality of splitter pairs 630 is indicated. The first splitter among the plurality of splitters 631 includes a first surface 633 defining a first waveform 635, wherein the first waveform 635 appears relative to a longitudinal axis 605. The second splitter among the plurality of splitters 632 includes a second surface 634 defining a second waveform 636, wherein the second waveform 636 appears relative to a longitudinal axis 605. The second surface 634 is symmetrically opposite to the first surface 633 along the longitudinal axis 605. The second surface 634, symmetrically opposite to the first surface 633, defines a plurality of flow-limiting elements 637 and a plurality of expansion chambers 638 in a Venturi flow channel 628. Multiple current-limiting elements 637 and multiple expansion chambers 638 are alternately arranged in series between the first end 625 and the second end 626.

[0092] In this embodiment, the first surface 633 and the second surface 634 are arranged to have a sinusoidal shape, such that the first waveform 635 and the second waveform 636 have a sinusoidal shape. Furthermore, a plurality of pins 640 are arranged in a plurality of expansion chambers 638, each of which is attached to and thermally coupled to the first plate 621 and projects orthogonally from the first plate 621. In one embodiment, and as shown, each pin 640 is a cylinder with a cross-section arranged to maximize heat transfer with the fluid, and fluid confinement elements are also introduced to advantageously transfer heat within the respective expansion chamber 638.

[0093] Alternatively, each pin 640 may have a truncated conical shape to increase surface area. Alternatively, each pin 640 may have a teardrop-shaped cross-sectional shape to interact with and form a fluid flow around it, wherein the cross-sectional shape promotes or otherwise achieves laminar flow. Alternatively, each pin 640 may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as conical, teardrop-shaped, serrated, etc., to increase surface area and / or guide fluid flow and / or interact with and form a fluid flow around it. This includes each pin 640 having a cross-sectional shape that promotes or otherwise achieves laminar flow under predefined and achievable flow conditions.

[0094] Each of the flow-limiting elements 637 arranged in series with the expansion chamber 638 in the Venturi flow channel 628 can advantageously generate a Venturi effect during fluid flow, wherein the fluid velocity in the flow-limiting element 637 increases and the fluid velocity in the expansion chamber 638 decreases. This arrangement will facilitate heat transfer between the fluid and the first plate 621 and the plurality of flow dividers 624.

[0095] Design considerations include the choice of fluid / coolant and associated viscosity, the flow rate required for laminar flow, pressure, and other factors.

[0096] This arrangement provides controlled Venturi and laminar coolant flow, which introduces viscous damping into the structure to reduce noise and vibration (NVH) associated with the operation of the power modules. NVH damping can be enhanced by controlling the viscosity of the coolant, the design and placement of pin 640, and / or by tuning the flow design to minimize resonance.

[0097] Figure 7 The schematic illustration shows a cross-sectional top view or plan view of an embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger 720, which includes a plurality of distributors 724 attached to a first plate 721 and arranged parallel to each other between a first or inlet end 725 and a second, outlet end 726. A plurality of Venturi flow channels 728 are formed between the distributors 724 and define a transverse flow axis 705 transverse to the longitudinal axis 704 defined between the first or inlet end 725 and the second, outlet end 726.

[0098] Multiple diverters 724 can be arranged into multiple diverter pairs 730, wherein each diverter pair 730 includes a first diverter among multiple diverters 731 and a second diverter among multiple diverters 732. The first diverter among multiple diverters 731 includes a first surface 733 defining a first waveform 735, wherein the first waveform 735 appears relative to a longitudinal axis 705. The second diverter among multiple diverters 732 includes a second surface 734 defining a second waveform 736, wherein the second waveform 736 appears relative to a longitudinal axis 705. The second surface 734 is symmetrically opposite to the first surface 733 along the longitudinal axis 705. The second surface 734, symmetrically opposite to the first surface 733, defines multiple flow-limiting elements 737 and multiple expansion chambers 738 in a Venturi flow channel 728. The multiple flow-limiting elements 737 and multiple expansion chambers 738 are alternately arranged in series between a first end 725 and a second end 726.

[0099] Figure 8 The illustration schematically depicts a cross-sectional top view or plan view of an embodiment of a fluid heat exchanger 820, which includes a plurality of distributors 824 attached to a first plate 821 and arranged parallel to each other between a first or inlet end 825 and a second, outlet end 826. A plurality of Venturi flow channels 828 are formed between the distributors 824 and define a longitudinal flow axis 805 parallel to a longitudinal axis 804 defined between the first or inlet end 825 and the second, outlet end 826.

[0100] Multiple diverters 824 can be arranged into multiple diverter pairs 830, wherein each diverter pair 830 includes a first diverter among multiple diverters 831 and a second diverter among multiple diverters 832. The first diverter among the multiple diverters 831 includes a first surface 833 defining a first waveform 835, wherein the first waveform 835 appears relative to a longitudinal flow axis 805. The second diverter among the multiple diverters 832 includes a second surface 834 defining a second waveform 836, wherein the second waveform 836 appears relative to a longitudinal flow axis 805. The second surface 834 is symmetrically opposite to the first surface 833 along the longitudinal flow axis 805. The second surface 834, symmetrically opposite to the first surface 833, defines multiple flow-limiting elements 837 and multiple expansion chambers 838 in a Venturi flow channel 828. The multiple flow-limiting elements 837 and multiple expansion chambers 838 are alternately arranged in series between a first end 825 and a second end 826.

[0101] This arrangement of a fluid heat exchanger with multiple shunts forming multiple Venturi flow channels enables Venturi effect cooling in regions adjacent to and thermally coupled to heat-generating areas (e.g., solid-state electronic power modules), resulting in reduced thermal resistance, pumping pressure, and losses. The symmetrical structure also promotes manufacturability. It allows power modules to be mounted on both sides to reduce system size and increase power density, which is beneficial for multi-stage inverters with high switching counts. It also promotes laminar coolant flow to increase thermal conductivity and pumping efficiency.

[0102] The design of Venturi tube channels and pins can include wavy, conical, elliptical arrangements, etc., which are optimized for the temperature / pressure difference at the inlet and / or outlet locations.

[0103] In addition, the controlled venturi tubes and laminar coolant flow add viscous damping to the structure, which improves the inverter's NVH performance.

[0104] In addition, this arrangement is suitable for single, dual, or multi-stage inverters / converters and other cooling applications.

[0105] The detailed description and accompanying drawings are intended to support and describe this teaching, but the scope of this teaching is defined only by the claims. While some preferred modes and other embodiments for carrying out this teaching have been described in detail, various alternative designs and embodiments exist for practicing this teaching as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fluid heat exchanger, comprising: First board, second board, inlet port, outlet port, and multiple splitters; The first plate can be thermally connected to a heat source; The plurality of splitters are arranged orthogonally to the first plate and orthogonally to the second plate; The plurality of splitters are arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of splitters, the first plate and the second plate form a plurality of Venturi flow channels arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of splitters are arranged into a plurality of splitter pairs, and each splitter pair includes a first splitter and a second splitter among the plurality of splitters; The first shunt of the plurality of shunts includes a first surface defining a first waveform; The second shunt in the plurality of shunts includes a second surface defining a second waveform; The second surface is symmetrically opposite to the first surface along a longitudinal axis defined between the inlet port and the outlet port; The second surface, symmetrically opposite to the first surface, defines a plurality of flow-limiting elements and a plurality of expansion chambers in the Venturi flow channel; and The plurality of current-limiting elements and the plurality of expansion chambers are alternately arranged in series between the inlet port and the outlet port.

2. The fluid heat exchanger according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of pins attached to and projecting orthogonally from the first plate, wherein, The plurality of pins are disposed in the plurality of expansion chambers.

3. The fluid heat exchanger according to claim 2, wherein, Each of the plurality of pins is cylindrical.

4. The fluid heat exchanger according to claim 2, wherein, Each of the plurality of pins has a truncated conical shape.

5. The fluid heat exchanger according to claim 2, wherein, Each of the plurality of pins is made of a thermally conductive material.

6. The fluid heat exchanger of claim 2, further comprising the plurality of pins attached to the second plate.

7. The fluid heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein, The first waveform defined by the first shunt of the plurality of shunts includes a sine wave, and the second waveform defined by the second shunt of the plurality of shunts includes a sine wave.

8. The fluid heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein, The first waveform defined by the first shunt of the plurality of shunts includes a trapezoidal waveform, and the second waveform defined by the second shunt of the plurality of shunts includes a trapezoidal waveform.

9. The fluid heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein, The first plate is formed of a thermally conductive material.

10. A cooling system for a solid-state electronic power module, comprising: A fluid circuit, comprising a fluid heat exchanger, a pump, a radiator, and a storage tank, wherein the fluid circuit contains a heat transfer fluid; The fluid heat exchanger includes a first plate, an inlet port, an outlet port, and multiple distributors. The first board is thermally connected to the solid-state electronic power module; The plurality of splitters are arranged orthogonally to the first plate; The plurality of splitters are arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of diverters and the first plate form a plurality of Venturi flow channels arranged in parallel between the inlet port and the outlet port; The plurality of splitters are arranged into a plurality of splitter pairs, and each splitter pair includes a first splitter and a second splitter among the plurality of splitters; The first shunt of the plurality of shunts includes a first surface defining a first waveform; The second shunt in the plurality of shunts includes a second surface defining a second waveform; The second surface is symmetrically opposite to the first surface along a longitudinal axis defined between the inlet port and the outlet port; The second surface, symmetrically opposite to the first surface, defines a plurality of flow-limiting elements and a plurality of expansion chambers in the Venturi flow channel; and The plurality of current-limiting elements and the plurality of expansion chambers are alternately arranged in series between the inlet port and the outlet port.

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