Power conversion device, electric vehicle drive device using the same, and electric vehicle drive device operation system
By adopting a combined structure of power modules, heat dissipation chambers, refrigerant chambers, and auxiliary component chambers in the power conversion device, miniaturization and efficient cooling of the power conversion device are achieved, solving the problems of complex cooling structure and insufficient cooling performance, improving cooling performance and reducing pressure loss.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC MOBILITY CORP
- Filing Date
- 2023-11-22
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-19
AI Technical Summary
In existing power conversion devices, the cooling structure is complex and the cooling performance is insufficient, which leads to the problem of increased component installation area and larger coolers. In particular, it is difficult to achieve uniform cooling in the case of miniaturization and high power.
It adopts a combined structure of power module, heat dissipation chamber, refrigerant chamber and auxiliary component chamber. The refrigerant chamber is divided into low temperature chamber and high temperature chamber. The refrigerant flow is parallel to the short side of the power module and achieves uniform distribution and efficient cooling through a slit-shaped connecting part.
It achieves miniaturization of the power conversion device, improved cooling performance and reduced pressure loss, simplifies the cooling structure and improves heat transfer rate.
Smart Images

Figure CN122249986A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This disclosure relates to a power conversion device, an electric vehicle drive system using the power conversion device, and an electric vehicle drive system operating system. Background Technology
[0002] In power conversion devices used in electric vehicles such as hybrid electric vehicles or electric vehicles, efforts are being made to miniaturize the main circuit components (power modules or capacitors, etc.) to reduce the mounting area of the components. One approach to reduce this area is to stack the components on top of the area of the power conversion device containing the large smoothing capacitors. However, this structure complicates the cooling system for the smoothing capacitors. Furthermore, to achieve uniform cooling of the power modules with low pressure loss, cooling water needs to flow in parallel with the power modules. This requires manifolds of a certain width, which is a major reason for the increased mounting area.
[0003] That is, the premise is that it is desirable to increase the cross-sectional area of the manifold to reduce fluid resistance. In the prior art described later (Japanese Patent No. 7052447), attempting to increase the cross-sectional area of the manifold would increase the cross-sectional area of the radiator in the thickness direction. In this case, the thickness outside the manifold (finned portion) would also increase unnecessarily, resulting in waste. Therefore, it is more appropriate to increase the cross-sectional area of the manifold in the planar direction of the radiator rather than in the thickness direction. However, if an attempt is made to increase the cross-sectional area of the manifold in the planar direction, it is necessary to increase the overall width of the device, resulting in an increase in the mounting area of the components.
[0004] Furthermore, as a technical problem associated with miniaturization, the method for cooling smooth capacitors, which have relatively low heat resistance in heat-generating components, is generally to cool the busbars connected to the components via heat dissipation materials. However, when using only this method, with the increasing current of power conversion devices, a large area of heat dissipation is required.
[0005] Conventional power conversion devices include those that form a cooling water supply path and a cooling water discharge path in a capacitor housing made of metal or synthetic resin, with the capacitor housing and a power semiconductor cooler joined in surface contact, and the cooling water supply path, cooling water discharge path and power semiconductor refrigerant flow path directly connected to circulate the cooling medium (see Patent Document 1).
[0006] Existing technical documents
[0007] Patent documents
[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 7052447 Summary of the Invention
[0009] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve
[0010] In the aforementioned prior art, refrigerant flow paths have been studied for embedding within the capacitor casing to cool the capacitor; however, this method complicates the structure of the flow paths. Furthermore, improving the cooling performance of power semiconductor devices is also crucial. Lower pressure loss in the cooler results in higher heat transfer rate; that is, a higher (heat transfer rate / pressure loss) ratio leads to better performance. (As described later...) Figure 3 As shown, by making the cooling water flow in a direction parallel to the short side of the power module, the (heat transfer rate / pressure loss) is greater than that by making the cooling water flow in a direction parallel to the long side of the power module.
[0011] However, when the cooling water flows parallel to the short side of the power module, to ensure unbiased refrigerant supply in the direction orthogonal to the refrigerant flow direction (i.e., the long side), the cross-sectional area of the flow path before and after entering the heat sink fin area needs to be sufficiently large. In the aforementioned prior art, to ensure the cooling water flows parallel to the short side of the power module and the refrigerant flows unbiased, the cross-sectional area of the flow path before and after entering the heat sink fin area must be large in the planar direction. That is, to ensure a large necessary area for the upstream and downstream manifold sections of the heat sink fin area in the plane, the device needs to be enlarged in the planar direction. This results in a problem of increasing the size of the cooler in the planar direction.
[0012] This disclosure discloses a technology for solving the above-mentioned technical problems, with the aim of providing a power conversion device that cools auxiliary components with a simple structure, is small in size, and has high cooling performance, an electric vehicle drive device using the power conversion device, and an electric vehicle drive device operating system.
[0013] Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems
[0014] The power conversion device disclosed herein includes: a power module for converting electrical power; The heat dissipation chamber houses the heat dissipation fins, which dissipate the heat generated by the power module to the refrigerant. A refrigerant chamber that distributes the refrigerant to the heat dissipation fins and collects the refrigerant; and The auxiliary component compartment houses the auxiliary components for power conversion. The power module, the heat dissipation chamber, the refrigerant chamber, and the auxiliary component chamber are arranged sequentially from one side to the other in a third-party direction. The refrigerant chamber is formed by a recess located on a third-direction side of the auxiliary component chamber, and is divided into a low-temperature chamber and a high-temperature chamber according to the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through it, which is separated by a refrigerant chamber partition wall. The low-temperature chamber and the high-temperature chamber are connected to the heat dissipation chamber via a connecting part. The low-temperature greenhouse and the high-temperature greenhouse are arranged parallel to the long side of the area where the power module is installed. The refrigerant flow within the heat dissipation chamber is configured to be parallel to the short side direction of the area where the power module is installed.
[0015] Furthermore, the electric vehicle drive unit disclosed herein is formed by incorporating a motor and a reduction gear within the power conversion device.
[0016] In addition, the electric vehicle drive system of this disclosure regulates the amount of refrigerant flowing in the power conversion device by detecting the temperature of the electric vehicle drive device.
[0017] Invention Effects
[0018] According to the power conversion device disclosed herein, the electric vehicle drive unit using the power conversion device, and the electric vehicle drive unit operating system, it is possible to provide a power conversion device that can cool auxiliary components with a simple structure, is small in size, and has high cooling performance. Attached Figure Description
[0019] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 1.
[0020] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 1.
[0021] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side as seen from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 1.
[0022] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 An enlarged sectional view of part A in the diagram.
[0023] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side as seen from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 1.
[0024] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 An enlarged sectional view of part B in the diagram.
[0025] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the refrigerant flowing parallel to the long side of the power module installation area.
[0026] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the refrigerant flow when the long side and short side are equal in the power module installation area.
[0027] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the refrigerant flowing parallel to the short side of the power module installation area.
[0028] Figure 10 It is a graph plotted with C / D as the horizontal axis and pressure loss, heat transfer rate, and heat transfer rate / pressure loss as the vertical axes respectively.
[0029] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing the refrigerant chamber of the power conversion device in Embodiment 1 from the top.
[0030] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the heat dissipation fins of the power conversion device according to Embodiment 1.
[0031] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of using stacked fins as heat dissipation fins in the power conversion device of Embodiment 1.
[0032] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of using comb-shaped fins as heat dissipation fins in the power conversion device of Embodiment 1.
[0033] Figure 15 From Figure 14 The image is viewed from the T-direction.
[0034] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 2.
[0035] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 2.
[0036] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 3.
[0037] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the power conversion device of Embodiment 4 obtained by cutting along the refrigerant inflow and outflow pipes.
[0038] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 4.
[0039] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the power conversion device according to embodiment 5.
[0040] Figure 22 This is a top sectional view obtained by cutting along the surface that runs through the refrigerant chamber in the power conversion device of embodiment 5.
[0041] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the power conversion device according to embodiment 5.
[0042] Figure 24 This is a top sectional view obtained by cutting along the surface that runs through the refrigerant chamber in the power conversion device of embodiment 5.
[0043] Figure 25 This is a top sectional view obtained by cutting along the surface that runs through the refrigerant chamber in the power conversion device of embodiment 6.
[0044] Figure 26 This is a top sectional view obtained by cutting along the surface that runs through the refrigerant chamber in the power conversion device of embodiment 5.
[0045] Figure 27 This is a perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 7.
[0046] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along the surface that runs through the refrigerant chamber in the power conversion device of embodiment 7.
[0047] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 8.
[0048] Figure 30 This is a side view showing the heat dissipation fin portion of the power conversion device according to Embodiment 9.
[0049] Figure 31A It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along the position indicated by the EE line. Figure 31B It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along the position indicated by the FF line. Figure 31C It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along the position indicated by the GG line. Figure 31D It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along the position indicated by the HH line. Figure 31E It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along line II.
[0050] Figure 32 This is a diagram showing only the refrigerant portion of the flow path inside the heat sink fins in the power conversion device of embodiment 9.
[0051] Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view showing the heat dissipation fins of the power conversion device according to Embodiment 10.
[0052] Figure 34 This is a cross-sectional view showing the heat dissipation fins of the power conversion device according to Embodiment 10.
[0053] Figure 35 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 11.
[0054] Figure 36 This is an exploded perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 12.
[0055] Figure 37 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 12.
[0056] Figure 38 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the power conversion device of Embodiment 12 obtained by cutting along the refrigerant inflow and outflow pipes.
[0057] Figure 39 This is an exploded perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 13.
[0058] Figure 40 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 13.
[0059] Figure 41 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the power conversion device of Embodiment 13 obtained by cutting along the refrigerant inflow and outflow pipes.
[0060] Figure 42 This is an exploded perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 14.
[0061] Figure 43 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 14.
[0062] Figure 44 This is a cross-sectional view of the conduit side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 15.
[0063] Figure 45 This is a cross-sectional view of the conduit side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 16.
[0064] Figure 46 This is a cross-sectional view of the conduit side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 17.
[0065] Figure 47 This is a perspective view showing the integrally formed auxiliary component chamber and refrigerant chamber recess of the power conversion device according to embodiment 18.
[0066] Figure 48This is a side view taken from the opening of the integrally formed auxiliary component chamber and refrigerant chamber recess of the power conversion device in Embodiment 18.
[0067] Figure 49 This is a cross-sectional view showing the integrally formed auxiliary component chamber and refrigerant chamber recess of the power conversion device of embodiment 18.
[0068] Figure 50 This is a perspective view showing an electric vehicle drive unit including the power conversion device of embodiment 19.
[0069] Figure 51 From Figure 50 The main view viewed from the P direction.
[0070] Figure 52 From Figure 50 The main view viewed from the Q direction.
[0071] Figure 53 From Figure 50 A side view viewed from the R direction.
[0072] Figure 54 This is a schematic diagram showing the working system of the electric vehicle drive device of Embodiment 20.
[0073] Figure 55 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a control device. Detailed Implementation
[0074] Implementation method 1.
[0075] This embodiment relates to a power conversion device that converts input current from DC to AC, or from AC to DC, or converts input voltage to a different voltage, and an electric vehicle drive device using the power conversion device.
[0076] Based on the accompanying drawings, Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 1. Figure 2 It is its exploded three-dimensional diagram. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side as seen from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 1. Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 Enlarged sectional view of part A, Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side as seen from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 1. Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 An enlarged sectional view of part B.
[0077] Additionally, in the accompanying drawings, symbols X1 and X2 represent one and the other of the first direction, symbol Y represents the second direction orthogonal to the first direction X1 and X2, and symbols Z1 and Z2 represent one (upper) and the other (lower) of the third direction orthogonal to the imaginary plane containing the first direction X and the second direction Y.
[0078] The power conversion device 1 of Embodiment 1 includes: a power module 2 that converts direct current power into alternating current power; a base 4 that transfers heat generated by the power module 2 to heat dissipation fins 3; and heat dissipation fins 3 that dissipate heat received by the base 4 to a refrigerant. Additionally, Figure 2 In the diagram, it is assumed that the base 4 is transparent, and the state of the heat dissipation fins 3 installed on the other side of the base 4 is shown.
[0079] Additionally, the power conversion device 1 includes: a heat dissipation chamber 5 for housing the heat dissipation fins 3 and dissipating heat to the refrigerant; a refrigerant chamber 6 for distributing refrigerant to the heat dissipation fins 3 and collecting the refrigerant; and an auxiliary component chamber 8 for housing auxiliary components 7 that assist in power conversion.
[0080] Power module 2, heat dissipation chamber 5, refrigerant chamber 6, and auxiliary component chamber 8 are arranged sequentially from the third side upwards. Refrigerant chamber 6 is as follows: Figure 3 As shown, the space is formed by the recess 9 on the third upward side of the auxiliary component chamber 8 and the heat dissipation chamber partition wall 10 that contacts the bottom surface (third downward side) of the heat dissipation chamber 5. Or as... Figure 5 As shown, it consists of a space integrated with the heat dissipation chamber 5.
[0081] The refrigerant chamber 6 is divided into a low-temperature chamber 61 and a high-temperature chamber 62 based on the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through it, separated by the refrigerant chamber partition wall 11. Low-temperature refrigerant supplied from outside the power conversion device 1 flows in the low-temperature chamber 61, while high-temperature refrigerant, after receiving heat from the heat dissipation fins 3, flows in the high-temperature chamber 62. The low-temperature chamber 61 and the high-temperature chamber 62 are adjacent to and connected to the heat dissipation chamber 5 via a slit-shaped connecting portion 12, as shown below. Figure 4 , Figure 6 As shown, the refrigerant moves through the connecting portion 12. Furthermore, the low-temperature chamber 61 and the high-temperature chamber 62 are arranged parallel to the long side of the area where the power supply module 2 is installed, and the flow of refrigerant in the heat dissipation chamber 5 is parallel to the short side of the area where the power supply module 2 is installed. Additionally, a cover 13 is provided on the third-downward side of the auxiliary component chamber 8. Moreover, the refrigerant flows in and out of the power conversion device 1 via the refrigerant inflow / outflow pipe 19.
[0082] According to this embodiment, it is possible to miniaturize the power conversion device, increase the heat transfer rate, and simultaneously reduce pressure loss. The reasons for this are explained below.
[0083] Figures 7-10 This is a graph illustrating how heat transfer rate and pressure loss vary depending on the flow direction of cooling water relative to the power module area. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the refrigerant flowing parallel to the long side of the power module installation area (C / D < 1). Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram (C / D=1) showing the refrigerant flow when the long side and short side are equal in the power module installation area. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the refrigerant flowing parallel to the short side of the power module mounting area (C / D > 1). Figure 10 It is a graph plotted with C / D as the horizontal axis and pressure loss, heat transfer rate, and heat transfer rate / pressure loss as the vertical axes.
[0084] Here, pressure loss refers to the loss of energy that drives fluid flow. Using electricity as an example, the relationships are: resistance = fluid resistance, current = fluid flow, and voltage = pressure. Just as voltage decreases when current flows through a region with resistance, pressure decreases when fluid flows through a region with resistance. This decrease in pressure is called pressure loss. Energy is reduced, and this reduction in energy manifests as a decrease in pressure. The smaller the pressure loss, the less pressure is required to circulate the refrigerant, for example, by applying less pressure with a pump, thus reducing the power consumption of the pump.
[0085] Let the height of the heat sink fin 3 be H, the length of the horizontal side of the rectangular power module area be C, and the length of the vertical side be D. Then the outer perimeter length is expressed as (2C+2D). Now, assuming H and (2C+2D) are fixed, let the refrigerant flow parallel to side D, and change the ratio of C to D, C / D, to investigate how the pressure loss and heat transfer rate change.
[0086] Let C+D=α and C / D=β, then
[0087] D=α / (1+β)
[0088] C = αβ / (1+β).
[0089] Let the flow rate be Q, and the flow velocity before the heat sink fin 3 (i.e., the initial flow velocity) be U.
[0090] U = Q / (CH)
[0091] =Q(1+β) / (αβH)
[0092] As can be seen from the above, when C=D, i.e., β=1, U = 2Q / (αH) Here, we set the pressure loss and heat transfer rate to 1 when C / D=1. Generally, we can approximate that the heat transfer rate h is proportional to the 1 / 2 power of the flow velocity, and the pressure loss P is proportional to the square power of the flow velocity and the first power of the flow path length. Therefore, the pressure loss P and heat transfer rate h at any previous flow velocity U can be organized as follows: P=[{Q(1+β) / (αβH)} / {2Q / (αH)}] 2 ·{α / (1+β)} / {α / (1+1)} =(1+C / D) / (2(C / D) 2 ) h=[{Q(1+β) / (αβH)} / {2Q / (αH)}] 1 / 2 ={(1+C / D) / (2C / D)} 1 / 2 Figure 10 This is a graph plotted with C / D on the horizontal axis and pressure loss, heat transfer rate, and heat transfer rate / pressure loss on the vertical axes, respectively. Figure 10 In the diagram, curve L represents pressure loss, curve M represents heat transfer rate, and curve N represents the changes in heat transfer rate / pressure loss.
[0093] The lower the pressure loss, the less energy is required to circulate the refrigerant, the higher the heat transfer rate, and the more efficiently the heat generated by the power module can be dissipated to the refrigerant. Therefore, the higher the value of heat transfer rate / pressure loss N, the more ideal the cooling system can be. Here, we will... Figure 10 In the chart, if the region C / D < 1 is set to 101, the region C / D = 1 is set to 102, and the region C / D > 1 is set to 103, then 101 is... Figure 7 The diagram shows the refrigerant flowing parallel to the long side of the power module mounting area. 102 is as follows: Figure 8 The power module mounting area shown is in the case where the short side and long side are equal, 103 is as follows. Figure 8 The diagram shows the situation where the refrigerant flows parallel to the short side of the power module mounting area.
[0094] like Figure 10 As shown, it is clear that the heat transfer rate / pressure loss N is relatively large in region 103. It can be seen that by making the refrigerant flow parallel to the short side of the power module installation area, a higher heat transfer rate and a lower pressure loss can be obtained.
[0095] Therefore, in Embodiment 1, since the flow of refrigerant in the heat dissipation chamber 5 is parallel to the short side direction of the area where the power module is installed, the heat of the power module 2 can be efficiently transferred from the heat dissipation fins 3 to the refrigerant, and the pressure loss can be reduced.
[0096] On the other hand, when the refrigerant flows parallel to the short side of the area where the power module is installed, to eliminate uneven heat dissipation, the refrigerant needs to be evenly distributed to all areas of the heat dissipation fins along the long side of the power module before flowing into the fins. The uneven distribution of refrigerant to the heat dissipation fins increases with the distance in the direction orthogonal to the direction of refrigerant flow into the fins, making it difficult to evenly distribute the refrigerant. In other words, it is more difficult to evenly distribute the refrigerant to the heat dissipation fins when the refrigerant flows parallel to the short side than when the refrigerant flows parallel to the long side of the area where the power module is installed.
[0097] Here, considering the properties of fluid flow within a flow path with fluid resistance, when a region with higher fluid resistance exists downstream of a region with lower fluid resistance, it is easier to achieve flow equalization closer to the region with higher fluid resistance. Therefore, by ensuring that the fluid resistance in the refrigerant chamber before it flows into the heat sink fins is sufficiently lower than the fluid resistance in the heat sink chamber, the refrigerant flowing into the heat sink fins can be evenly distributed. A larger flow path cross-sectional area results in lower fluid resistance; therefore, by increasing the cross-sectional area of the refrigerant chamber, the refrigerant flowing into the heat sink fins can be evenly distributed.
[0098] According to this embodiment, by providing the refrigerant chamber 6 directly below the heat dissipation chamber 5 (on the third downward side), a flow path cross-sectional area equal to the product of the length of the heat dissipation chamber 5 in the flow direction and the height of the refrigerant chamber 6 can be ensured. Therefore, compared to a structure in which the refrigerant chamber 6 is provided in the transverse direction (first direction) of the heat dissipation chamber 5, the space can be reduced, and the refrigerant can be evenly distributed to the heat dissipation fins 3. In addition, by making the fluid resistance of the connecting portion 12 between that of the heat dissipation chamber 5 and the fluid resistance of the refrigerant chamber 6, uniform distribution of the refrigerant can also be achieved within the refrigerant chamber 6, further promoting the homogenization of the refrigerant flowing into the heat dissipation fins 3.
[0099] Here, even if the connecting portion 12 is a narrow slit, for example, with a width of about 1.5 mm, as long as it has a depth of 200 mm, it becomes a cross-sectional area roughly the same as a pipe with a diameter of 10 mm. Moreover, the distance through the connecting portion 12 is only a few millimeters, resulting in negligible fluid resistance. On the other hand, the heat dissipation fins 3 are densely arranged, and the refrigerant flows while continuously colliding with the heat dissipation fins 3; therefore, from the perspective of the cooling section as a whole, they account for most of its fluid resistance. Thus, the fluid resistance of the connecting portion 12 can be made to be between the fluid resistance of the heat dissipation chamber 5 and the refrigerant chamber 6. That is, the fluid resistance of the refrigerant chamber 6 is the largest, followed by the fluid resistance of the connecting portion 12, and the fluid resistance of the heat dissipation chamber 5 is the smallest.
[0100] The following property exists: when there is a region of high fluid resistance in the fluid flow field, the flow becomes more uniform upstream of where the fluid resistance exists. The advantage of achieving uniform refrigerant distribution within the refrigerant chamber 6 is that if flow equalization relies solely on the fluid resistance of the cooling fins, flow deviation may occur upstream of the cooling fins. Therefore, by pre-equalizing the flow in the upstream manifold, overall flow equalization of the cooling fins can be further achieved. Furthermore, in Embodiment 2 described later, when the auxiliary component 7 is thermally connected to the refrigerant chamber 6, uniform distribution of refrigerant to the refrigerant chamber 6 enables uniform cooling of the auxiliary component 7.
[0101] like Figure 3 As shown, the refrigerant chamber 6 can be segmented with the heat dissipation chamber partition wall 10 via the recess 9 on the third-side upward side of the auxiliary component 7, and the connection is sealed by means of, for example, O-rings, liquid gaskets, or FSW (friction stir welding). Additionally, as... Figure 5 As shown, it can also be integrated with the heat dissipation chamber 5 by methods such as brazing or FSW.
[0102] exist Figures 1-6 In this case, the direction in which the auxiliary component 7 is inserted into the auxiliary component chamber 8 is set to be from the third side downward, but it can also be inserted from the lateral (first direction).
[0103] The connecting part 12 can be configured as follows Figure 4 , Figure 6 The slit shape shown can also be as follows: Figure 11 As shown, the base 4 is attached to the lower plate 15, and the gap formed at both ends of the lower plate 15, which serves as both a refrigerant chamber and a heat dissipation chamber, is used as a connecting part 12. Additionally, although not shown, circular holes or elongated holes that separate the intervals can be provided in the heat dissipation chamber partition wall 10. Furthermore, cutouts or the like can be provided in the heat dissipation chamber partition wall 10.
[0104] The heat sink fins 3 are made of materials with excellent thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or copper. As for the shape, for example, they can adopt... Figure 12 The pin-shaped fins shown. Alternatively, the following can be used: Figure 11 , Figure 13 The stacked fins shown are constructed by stacking perforated sheet metal sheets and connecting the perforations to form flow paths. Alternatively, they could also be... Figure 14 , Figure 15 The comb-shaped straight fins shown. Figure 15 From Figure 14 The image is viewed from the T-direction.
[0105] The gap between auxiliary component 7 and auxiliary component chamber 8 can be filled with potting material to enhance seismic resistance, for example.
[0106] The orientation of the power conversion device in this embodiment can be either vertical or horizontal.
[0107] According to this embodiment, the refrigerant chamber 6, which supplies refrigerant to the heat dissipation chamber 5, also functions to cool auxiliary components 7 such as capacitors. It is formed by surrounding the recess 9 on the upper surface of the auxiliary component chamber 8 with the wall of the lower surface of the heat dissipation chamber 5, or by using a portion of the heat dissipation chamber 5 as the refrigerant chamber 6. Therefore, unlike the prior art, there is no need to embed refrigerant flow paths in the capacitor housing, simplifying the cooling mechanism for auxiliary components such as capacitors and making manufacturing easier. Furthermore, the flow direction of the refrigerant within the heat dissipation chamber 5 is parallel to the short side direction of the mounting area of the power module 2, thus reducing pressure loss and improving heat transfer efficiency. Moreover, since the refrigerant chamber 6, which supplies refrigerant to the heat dissipation chamber 5, is located in a space at a different level from the heat dissipation chamber 5, the overall size of the device in the planar direction can be prevented from increasing. Therefore, according to this embodiment, auxiliary components can be cooled with a simple structure, resulting in a compact power conversion device with high cooling performance of the power module.
[0108] Implementation method 2.
[0109] Figure 16 , Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 2. In this embodiment, the auxiliary component 7 housed in Embodiment 1 is thermally connected to the refrigerant chamber 6.
[0110] The auxiliary component 7 is a component that assists the power module 2 in realizing the power conversion function, and generates Joule heat when current flows inside it. Therefore, by actively releasing the heat of the auxiliary component 7 to the outside, the performance of the auxiliary component 7 can be maximized, and the lifespan of the auxiliary component 7 can also be extended.
[0111] In this embodiment, a heat transfer member 21 is provided on the upper surface (third-direction side) of the auxiliary member 7, and the auxiliary member 7 is thermally connected to the refrigerant chamber 6. This allows heat from the auxiliary member 7 to be dissipated to the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant chamber 6.
[0112] As a heat transfer component 21, for example, a heat sink, thermal grease, oil compound, phase change plate, potting material, liquid metal, etc. can be used.
[0113] Implementation method 3.
[0114] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 3. In this embodiment, a capacitor 31 is used as an auxiliary component as shown in Embodiment 1, and it is housed in the auxiliary component chamber 8.
[0115] In the power conversion device 1, the capacitor 31 is relatively large among the components that assist the power module 2 in power conversion. Therefore, by storing the capacitor 31 in the auxiliary component compartment 8, the space of the power conversion device can be effectively utilized.
[0116] Furthermore, since the capacitor 31 generates heat, the space between the capacitor 31 and the auxiliary component chamber 8 can be filled using potting material or the like. Additionally, a heat transfer component 21 can be sandwiched between the surface of the capacitor 31 that is close to the refrigerant chamber 6, thereby actively releasing heat to the refrigerant within the refrigerant chamber 6. This reduces the temperature of the capacitor 31 and extends its lifespan.
[0117] Implementation method 4.
[0118] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the power conversion device of Embodiment 4 obtained by cutting along the refrigerant inlet and outlet pipes. Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 4. A refrigerant inlet / outlet pipe 19 for exchanging refrigerant with the outside of the power conversion device is connected to the refrigerant chamber 6. As shown in Embodiment 1. Figure 3 , Figure 5 Therefore, if the height of the refrigerant chamber 6 in the third direction is set to a size corresponding to the inner diameter u of the refrigerant inflow and outflow pipes, a flow path cross-sectional area above the flow path cross-sectional area sufficient to reduce the fluid resistance of the refrigerant chamber 6 will be set, resulting in a larger refrigerant chamber 6.
[0119] Therefore, in this embodiment, a portion of the refrigerant chamber 6 is further deepened, and a refrigerant inflow / outflow pipe 19 is connected to this portion, so that the height v of the refrigerant chamber 6 is less than the inner diameter u of the refrigerant inflow / outflow pipe 19.
[0120] With the above configuration, space saving can be achieved while ensuring that the height of the refrigerant chamber 6, which is required to reduce the fluid resistance of the refrigerant chamber 6, is below the inner diameter of the refrigerant inlet and outlet pipes 19.
[0121] Implementation method 5.
[0122] Figure 21 , Figure 23 This is a perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 5. Figure 22 , Figure 24 This is a top sectional view taken at the location of the refrigerant chamber in the power conversion device of Embodiment 5.
[0123] In this embodiment, at least one refrigerant inflow / outflow pipe 19 is connected at any position in the low-temperature chamber 61 and the high-temperature chamber 62 of the refrigerant chamber 6. As long as the refrigerant inflow / outflow pipe 19 is connected at least once in the low-temperature chamber 61 and the high-temperature chamber 62, the refrigerant can fill the refrigerant chamber 6 and be supplied to the heat dissipation chamber 5 regardless of the connection position.
[0124] In this embodiment, even when there are pipeline layout restrictions on vehicles or equipment equipped with power conversion devices, the connection positions of the pipelines can be flexibly determined.
[0125] The number of refrigerant inflow and outflow pipes does not have to be one in the low-temperature chamber 61 and one in the high-temperature chamber 62. Multiple pipes can be installed depending on the refrigerant supply path and the structure of the vehicle or equipment equipped with the power conversion device.
[0126] Implementation method 6.
[0127] Figure 25 , Figure 26 This is a top sectional view taken at the location of the refrigerant chamber in the power conversion device of Embodiment 6. In this embodiment, a curved or folded portion is provided in the refrigerant chamber partition wall 11. When a curved or folded portion is provided in the refrigerant chamber partition wall 11, the shapes of the low-temperature chamber 61 and the high-temperature chamber 62 can be changed.
[0128] Therefore, for example, if there is a component in the auxiliary component 7 stored in the auxiliary component chamber 8 adjacent to the refrigerant chamber 6 that is not resistant to high temperature, by setting the low temperature chamber 61 to be located near the component, the temperature rise of the component can be suppressed.
[0129] Implementation method 7.
[0130] Figure 27 This is a perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 7. Figure 28 This is a top sectional view taken at the location of the refrigerant chamber in the power conversion device of Embodiment 7. According to this embodiment, the center of the refrigerant inflow / outflow pipe 19 is arranged on the same straight line as the long side of the mounting area of the power module 2. Furthermore, the refrigerant chamber partition wall 11 may, for example, be arranged diagonally within the refrigerant chamber 6.
[0131] like Figure 22 as well as Figure 24 As shown, if the refrigerant chamber partition wall 11 is configured to divide the refrigerant chamber 6 into two equal parts, and if the refrigerant inflow and outflow pipe 19 is to be configured to be parallel to the long side of the installation area of the power module 2 and on the same straight line, it will interfere with the refrigerant chamber partition wall 11, and therefore cannot be configured.
[0132] However, considering the piping layout of vehicles or equipment equipped with power conversion devices, there may be situations where the refrigerant inflow and outflow pipes 19 can only be configured to be parallel to the long side of the installation area of the power module 2 and on the same straight line. In such cases, this embodiment can be used to address the issue.
[0133] Implementation method 8.
[0134] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 8.
[0135] In this embodiment, the L-shaped refrigerant chamber 81 is configured to extend laterally (to the side in the first direction) toward the auxiliary component chamber 8.
[0136] In this embodiment, the refrigerant chamber 81 is configured in a U-shape to surround the auxiliary component chamber 8, thus enabling efficient heat dissipation from the auxiliary component 7 to the refrigerant in the refrigerant chamber 81.
[0137] Implementation method 9.
[0138] Figure 30 This is a side view showing the heat dissipation fin portion of the power conversion device according to Embodiment 9. Furthermore, Figure 31A It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along the position indicated by the EE line. Figure 31B It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along the position indicated by the FF line. Figure 31C It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along the position indicated by the GG line. Figure 31D It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along the position indicated by the HH line. Figure 31E It is shown in Figure 30 A sectional view of the portion obtained by cutting along line II. Additionally, Figure 32 This is a diagram showing only the refrigerant portion of the heat sink fins, with the flow path inside the fins removed and displayed.
[0139] In this embodiment, the heat dissipation fins 3 are formed by stacking sheet metal with multiple holes, and the adjacent surfaces of these stacked sheet metal are joined by brazing. Furthermore, the holes in each sheet metal communicate with the holes in adjacent sheet metal, and the flow paths formed by the interconnected holes are constructed in a braided manner, enabling the construction of... Figure 32 The spiral flow shown forms a spiral flow path 91.
[0140] According to this embodiment, the refrigerant flows in a spiral pattern within the heat dissipation fins 3, thus agitating the refrigerant. Furthermore, the refrigerant is constantly subjected to centrifugal force, increasing the flow velocity near the inner wall 911 of the spiral flow path, thinning the temperature boundary layer, and thereby improving the heat transfer rate. As a feature of the heat dissipation fins in this embodiment, since the refrigerant agitation is three-dimensional, heat received from the power module 2 on the surface side of the base 4 can be efficiently transferred to the heat dissipation chamber partition wall 10 side. With this feature, in this structure where the refrigerant chamber 6 and the heat dissipation chamber 5 are adjacent, heat from the power module 2 can be transferred to the refrigerant chamber 6, and the heat transferred to the refrigerant chamber 6 can be dissipated to the surrounding environment or the refrigerant, thus enabling more efficient cooling of the power module 2.
[0141] Implementation method 10.
[0142] Figure 33 , Figure 34 This is a cross-sectional view showing the heat dissipation fins of the power conversion device according to embodiment 10. Figure 34 correspond Figure 13 The structure shown. In this embodiment, on the surface opposite the refrigerant chamber of the heat dissipation fin 3, the wall surface 101 is integrally formed with the heat dissipation fin 3, and the wall surface 101 functions as a partition wall between the heat dissipation chamber and the refrigerant chamber 6.
[0143] With the configuration described above, compared to assembling the heat dissipation chamber partition plate as a separate component, it is possible to prevent forgetting to assemble it. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent partial blockage or other problems caused by interference between the connecting portion 12 and the heat dissipation fins 3 due to assembly deviations.
[0144] The connection between the wall 101 and the heat dissipation fins 3 can be achieved, for example, by brazing, welding, adhesive, FSW, etc.
[0145] Implementation method 11.
[0146] Figure 35 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 11. In this embodiment, an adjacent dedicated cooling flow path 111 is provided in the auxiliary component chamber 8 to cool the auxiliary component 7.
[0147] In this embodiment, since a dedicated cooling flow path 111 for cooling the auxiliary component 7 is provided, the auxiliary component 7 can be effectively cooled even when the heat generated by the auxiliary component 7 is particularly large and cannot be adequately cooled by the structure of embodiment 2 or embodiment 8.
[0148] The refrigerant used to flow to the dedicated cooling flow path 111 can, for example, be introduced from a different cooling system than the refrigerant used to flow to the refrigerant chamber 6. Alternatively, it can be introduced from the same cooling system as the refrigerant used to flow to the refrigerant chamber 6, and combined with Embodiment 2 or Embodiment 8.
[0149] exist Figure 35 In this configuration, a dedicated cooling flow path 111 is provided on the lower surface (third-direction downward side) of the auxiliary component chamber 8, but it can also be provided on the side (first direction). Alternatively, it can be configured to surround the auxiliary component chamber 8.
[0150] Implementation method 12.
[0151] Figure 36 This is an exploded perspective view showing the power conversion device of Embodiment 12. Figure 37 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side as seen from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 12. Figure 38 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the power conversion device of Embodiment 12 obtained by cutting along the refrigerant inflow and outflow pipes. In this embodiment, the supplied refrigerant flows into the low-temperature chamber 61 after passing through the auxiliary component chamber 8 and is discharged from the high-temperature chamber 62. When the refrigerant is supplied from the inlet side of the refrigerant inflow and outflow pipe 19, it flows into the refrigerant flow path 121 of the auxiliary component chamber 8 disposed inside the auxiliary component chamber 8, absorbs heat from the auxiliary component 7 through the side wall of the refrigerant flow path 121 of the auxiliary component chamber 8, and flows into the low-temperature chamber 61.
[0152] With this structure, there is no need to set up a separate flow path for cooling the auxiliary component 7 as shown in Embodiment 11, and the auxiliary component 7 can be cooled efficiently.
[0153] Furthermore, since the upstream refrigerant is used to cool the auxiliary component 7, the temperature of the refrigerant flowing into the auxiliary component 7 is the lowest. Therefore, a cooling structure that is effective even when the allowable temperature of the auxiliary component 7 is particularly low is formed.
[0154] Implementation method 13.
[0155] Figure 39 This is an exploded perspective view showing the power conversion device of embodiment 13. Figure 40 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side as seen from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 12. Figure 41 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the power conversion device of Embodiment 13 obtained by cutting along the refrigerant inflow and outflow pipes.
[0156] In this embodiment, the supplied refrigerant flows into the low-temperature chamber 61, flows into the refrigerant flow path 131 from the high-temperature chamber 62, and is discharged from the discharge pipe through the auxiliary component 7.
[0157] With this structure, there is no need to set up a separate flow path for cooling the auxiliary component 7 as shown in Embodiment 11, and the auxiliary component 7 can be cooled efficiently.
[0158] Furthermore, since the auxiliary component 7 is cooled using refrigerant flowing from the high-temperature chamber 62, the temperature of the refrigerant flowing into the auxiliary component 7 is higher than in Embodiment 12. Therefore, the cooling effect on the auxiliary component 7 is weaker compared to Embodiment 12. However, it can be an effective cooling method for the auxiliary component 7 when the allowable temperature of the auxiliary component 7 is high, or when there are layout restrictions on the pipelines of vehicles or equipment equipped with power conversion devices.
[0159] Implementation method 14.
[0160] Figure 42 This is an exploded perspective view showing the power conversion device of embodiment 14. Figure 43 This is a cross-sectional view of the pipe side from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 14. In this embodiment, the refrigerant supplied from the outside flows into the low temperature chamber 61 after passing through the auxiliary component chamber 8, then flows into the refrigerant flow path 141 via the high temperature chamber 62, and is discharged after passing through the auxiliary component chamber 8 again.
[0161] This structure is a combination of the structure of embodiment 12 and the structure of embodiment 13, and further improves the cooling effect on the auxiliary component 7 compared with embodiment 12 and embodiment 13.
[0162] Implementation method 15.
[0163] Figure 44 This is a cross-sectional view of the conduit side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 15.
[0164] In this embodiment, a busbar 151 is provided to electrically connect the auxiliary component 7 to the power module 2. The busbar 151 is located on the low temperature chamber 61 side of the heat dissipation chamber 5 and is thermally connected.
[0165] Busbar 151 uses components with low resistance, such as copper. However, when the amount of copper used is reduced to lower costs, the resistance increases, leading to greater Joule heating. Therefore, the heat generated in busbar 151 is dissipated to the cryogenic refrigerant flowing in the low-temperature chamber 61 via heat transfer component 152. This allows for efficient cooling of busbar 151 and reduces the amount of material used in busbar 151.
[0166] As a heat transfer component 152, for example, a heat sink, thermal grease, oil compound, phase change plate, potting material, liquid metal, etc. can be used.
[0167] Implementation method 16.
[0168] Figure 45This is a cross-sectional view of the conduit side viewed from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 16.
[0169] In this embodiment, the heating element 161 is disposed between the auxiliary component chamber 8 and the refrigerant chamber 6, and the heating element 161 is thermally connected to the refrigerant chamber 6.
[0170] The heat-generating component 161, such as the busbar that electrically connects the auxiliary component 7 and the power module 2 as shown in Embodiment 15, becomes an effective means of dissipating heat when other heat-generating components 161 are present on the upper part (third-side upward) of the auxiliary component 7. Furthermore, as shown in Embodiment 2, when it is impossible to directly cool the auxiliary component 7 through the refrigerant chamber 6, the auxiliary component 7 can be indirectly cooled via the heat-generating components 161 above it.
[0171] Implementation method 17.
[0172] Figure 46 This is a cross-sectional view of the conduit side from the center of the power conversion device in Embodiment 17. According to this embodiment, a current sensor core, or a current sensor core and a current sensor 171, are built into the auxiliary component chamber 8.
[0173] In the above structure, the current sensor core, or the current sensor core and the current sensor 171, are fixed to the auxiliary component chamber 8 by means of, for example, potting. By embedding the current sensor core, or the current sensor core and the current sensor 171, in the auxiliary component chamber 8, it is not necessary to fix them by other fixing elements such as molded parts or bolts, which simplifies the structure.
[0174] Implementation method 18.
[0175] Figure 47 This is a perspective view showing the integrally formed auxiliary component chamber and refrigerant chamber recess of the power conversion device according to embodiment 18. Figure 48 This is a side view taken from the opening of the integrally formed auxiliary component compartment and refrigerant compartment recess of the power conversion device in Embodiment 18. Figure 49 This is a cross-sectional view of the integrally formed auxiliary component chamber and refrigerant chamber recess of the power conversion device in Embodiment 18.
[0176] According to this embodiment, the auxiliary component chamber 8 and the recess 9 forming the refrigerant chamber 6 are integrally formed from resin or metal, forming an integrally molded auxiliary component chamber and refrigerant chamber recess 180.
[0177] like Figure 48 , Figure 49As shown, the shape is designed so that it does not get stuck when the mold is pulled out from the opening of the auxiliary component chamber 8, making it easy to integrally mold. In this embodiment, since the auxiliary component chamber 8 is integrally molded with the recess 9 forming the refrigerant chamber 6, the manufacturability is good, and the structure is simplified compared to the case where it is a separate component. In addition, in Figures 47-49 In the auxiliary component chamber 8, the opening is at a right angle to the vertical stacked structure of the heat dissipation chamber, refrigerant chamber, and auxiliary component chamber, that is, relative to the side opening, but it is not limited to this, and the opening may also be provided on the bottom surface.
[0178] Implementation method 19.
[0179] Figure 50 This is a perspective view showing an electric vehicle drive unit including the power conversion device of embodiment 19. Figure 51 From Figure 50 The main view viewed from the P direction. Figure 52 From Figure 50 The main view viewed from the Q direction. Figure 53 From Figure 50 A side view viewed in the R direction. This embodiment relates to an electric vehicle drive device, which includes a motor 191 and a reduction gear 192 in the power conversion device described in embodiments 1 to 18, and houses them in a cuboid portion 193.
[0180] The aforementioned power conversion device can be compacted, and thus, by configuring and integrating it within the remaining space of the motor 191 and the reduction gear 192, a compact electric vehicle drive device can be constructed.
[0181] The motor 191 and reduction gear 192 used to drive electric vehicles are generally cylindrical. However, when the installation space of the electric vehicle is prepared as a cuboid, the utilization efficiency of the installation space becomes lower than that of the motor 191 and reduction gear 192, which generate extra space in the cuboid.
[0182] Therefore, for example, Figures 50-53 As shown, by making the volume of the power conversion device 1 smaller than the volume of the cuboid portion 193 that houses the motor 191 and the reduction gear 192 minus the volume of the motor 191 and the reduction gear 192, the remaining space can be effectively utilized.
[0183] Implementation method 20.
[0184] Figure 54This is a schematic diagram showing an electric vehicle drive system for operating the electric vehicle drive system of Embodiment 19. The electric vehicle drive system is operated by a control device 200, which regulates the amount of refrigerant flowing in the power conversion device 1 by detecting the temperature and other parameters of the electric vehicle drive system. Furthermore, information is provided to the operator via communication means such as a network, allowing the operator to confirm the current status.
[0185] Figure 55 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the control device 200. The hardware of the control device 200 comprises a processor 201 and a storage device 202. Although not shown, the storage device 202 includes a volatile storage device such as random access memory and a non-volatile auxiliary storage device such as flash memory. Alternatively, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk may be used instead of flash memory. The processor 201 executes a program input from the storage device 202. In this case, the program is input to the processor 201 from the auxiliary storage device via the volatile storage device. Furthermore, the processor 201 may output data such as calculation results to the volatile storage device of the storage device 202, or store data in the auxiliary storage device via the volatile storage device. Moreover, the processor 201 performs various functions by reading and executing the program stored in the storage device 202.
[0186] This application describes various exemplary implementation methods and embodiments, but the various features, methods and functions described in one or more implementation methods are not limited to specific implementation methods, and can be applied to implementation methods alone or in various combinations.
[0187] Therefore, numerous variations not illustrated are contemplated within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application. These include variations, additions, or omissions of at least one constituent element, as well as the extraction of at least one constituent element and its combination with constituent elements of other embodiments.
[0188] Symbol Explanation
[0189] 1 Power conversion device; 2 Power module; 3 Heat dissipation fins; 4 Base; 5 Heat dissipation chamber; 6 Refrigerant chamber; 7 Auxiliary components; 8 Auxiliary component chamber; 9 Recess; 10 Heat dissipation chamber partition wall; 11 Refrigerant chamber partition wall; 12 Connecting part; 13 Cover; 19 Refrigerant inlet and outlet pipes; 21 Heat transfer components; 31 Capacitor; 61 Low temperature chamber; 62 High temperature chamber; 91 Spiral flow path; 101 Wall surface; 111 Dedicated cooling flow path; 151 Busbar; 161 Heating component; 171 Current sensor core, or current sensor core and current sensor; 191 Motor; 192 Reduction gear; 193 Cuboid section.
Claims
1. A power conversion device, characterized by, include: Power modules used for converting electrical electricity; The heat dissipation chamber houses the heat dissipation fins, which dissipate the heat generated by the power module to the refrigerant. A refrigerant chamber that distributes the refrigerant to the heat dissipation fins and collects the refrigerant; as well as The auxiliary component compartment houses the auxiliary components for power conversion. The power module, the heat dissipation chamber, the refrigerant chamber, and the auxiliary component chamber are arranged sequentially from one side to the other in a third-party direction. The refrigerant chamber is formed by a recess located on a third-direction side of the auxiliary component chamber, and is divided into a low-temperature chamber and a high-temperature chamber according to the temperature of the refrigerant flowing through it, which is separated by a refrigerant chamber partition wall. The low-temperature chamber and the high-temperature chamber are connected to the heat dissipation chamber via a connecting part. The low-temperature greenhouse and the high-temperature greenhouse are arranged parallel to the long side of the area where the power module is installed. The flow of the refrigerant in the heat dissipation chamber is parallel to the short side direction of the area where the power module is installed.
2. The power conversion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerant chamber is formed by a space surrounded by a heat dissipation chamber partition wall, which contacts the recess and the bottom surface of the heat dissipation chamber.
3. The power conversion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The refrigerant chamber is formed by integrating it with the heat dissipation chamber.
4. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The fluid resistance increases sequentially in the order of the refrigerant chamber, the connecting portion, and the heat dissipation chamber.
5. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, A heat transfer component is provided between the auxiliary component and the refrigerant chamber.
6. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, A capacitor is used as the auxiliary component.
7. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The refrigerant inlet and outlet pipes are connected to the refrigerant chamber, and the height of the refrigerant chamber is smaller than the inner diameter of the refrigerant inlet and outlet pipes.
8. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The refrigerant inlet and outlet pipes are connected to the refrigerant chamber, and at least one of the refrigerant inlet and outlet pipes is connected to the low-temperature chamber and the high-temperature chamber.
9. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The refrigerant chamber partition wall used to separate the low-temperature chamber from the high-temperature chamber has curved or folded portions.
10. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The refrigerant inlet and outlet pipes are connected to the refrigerant chamber, and the refrigerant inlet and outlet pipes are configured to be on the same straight line relative to the long side of the area where the power module is installed.
11. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The refrigerant chamber is formed in an L-shape, and the refrigerant chamber is located on the short side of the auxiliary component chamber, i.e., the first direction side.
12. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The heat dissipation fins are formed by stacking sheet metal with multiple holes, and the holes in the sheet metal are connected to the holes in adjacent sheet metal to form a spiral flow path for the refrigerant.
13. The power conversion device according to claim 2, characterized in that, On the surface of the heat dissipation fins opposite to the refrigerant chamber, a wall surface is integrally formed with the heat dissipation fins, and the wall surface functions as a partition wall between the heat dissipation chamber and the refrigerant chamber.
14. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, A dedicated cooling flow path is provided adjacent to the auxiliary component chamber.
15. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The supplied refrigerant flows through the auxiliary component chamber, then into the low-temperature chamber, and is discharged from the high-temperature chamber.
16. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The supplied refrigerant flows into the low-temperature chamber, passes through the high-temperature chamber, and is discharged through the auxiliary component chamber.
17. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The supplied refrigerant flows into the low-temperature chamber after passing through the auxiliary component chamber, and then exits through the high-temperature chamber and again through the auxiliary component chamber.
18. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The busbar that electrically connects the auxiliary component to the power module is located on the low-temperature side of the heat dissipation chamber.
19. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The heating element is disposed between the auxiliary component chamber and the refrigerant chamber, and the heating element is thermally connected to the refrigerant chamber.
20. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that, The auxiliary component chamber contains a current sensor core, or a current sensor core and the current sensor.
21. The power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that, The auxiliary component chamber is integrally formed with the recess that forms the refrigerant chamber.
22. An electric vehicle drive device, characterized in that, The motor and the reduction gear are arranged in parallel in the power conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 21.
23. The electric vehicle drive device according to claim 22, characterized in that, The volume of the power conversion device is less than the volume obtained by subtracting the volume of the motor and the reduction gear from the volume of the cuboid portion that houses the motor and the reduction gear.
24. An electric vehicle drive system for operating the electric vehicle drive system as described in claim 22 or 23, characterized in that, The amount of refrigerant flowing in the power conversion device is adjusted by detecting the temperature of the electric vehicle drive unit.