Method for assembling a plate-shaped cooling device, plate-shaped cooling device and clamping device

Abstract

A method of assembling a plate-shaped cooling device having a flow path through which a coolant flows and which has a liquid-tightness and air-tightness superior to those of the prior art is achieved. The method includes: a clamping step of, after a first plate-shaped member (3) and a second plate-shaped member (2) are stacked, sandwiching two sandwiched regions (C) provided at positions closest to each other across a division welding region (L1) as a group of sandwiched regions, and fixing the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member to each other for the group of sandwiched regions by a clamping mechanism; and a welding step of welding the division welding region (L1) in a state in which the sandwiched regions (C) are clamped by the clamping step.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a method for assembling a plate-shaped cooling device. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the capacity of batteries used in electric vehicles (BEVs) has been increasing to ensure sufficient driving range, and liquid cooling mechanisms with flow paths for liquid circulation have been adopted to efficiently cool these batteries. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a cooling plate for a battery module manufactured by fixing a first sheet and a second sheet made of aluminum plates together with a material such as solder (brazing).

[0003] [Existing technical documents]

[0004] (Patent Documents)

[0005] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-101926. Summary of the Invention

[0006] (The problem that the invention aims to solve)

[0007] However, when assembling cooling devices that are becoming larger with increasing battery capacity, brazing or laser welding of large-area plate-shaped components may cause deformation of these components. When this deformation occurs, problems may arise in maintaining the liquid tightness or air tightness of the flow path supplying the coolant.

[0008] This disclosure was developed in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to realize an assembly method for a plate-shaped cooling device that has a flow path for coolant circulation and has better liquid tightness and air tightness than the prior art.

[0009] (Technical means used to solve the problem)

[0010] To address the aforementioned problems, in the assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device disclosed herein, the plate-shaped cooling device comprises: a first plate-shaped member; and a second plate-shaped member having a flow path for coolant flow on the welding surface side where it is welded to the first plate-shaped member. The second plate-shaped member further comprises: a welding area disposed along the flow path within a range where the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, so as to weld the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member to each other; and a partitioned welding area, which is a partitioned welding area for dividing the welding area according to a predetermined... The assembly method comprises: a region divided into zones; and a clamped region located adjacent to the partitioned welding area and clamped by a clamping mechanism; and the assembly method further comprises: a clamping step, wherein after the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, two clamped regions located at the closest positions to each other across the partitioned welding area are grouped as a set of clamped regions, and the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are fixed to each other by the clamping mechanism for the set of clamped regions; and a welding step, wherein the partitioned welding area is welded while the clamped regions are clamped by the clamping step.

[0011] To address the aforementioned problems, the plate-shaped cooling device disclosed herein comprises: a first plate-shaped member; and a second plate-shaped member having a flow path for coolant flow on the welding surface side where it is welded to the first plate-shaped member. The second plate-shaped member further comprises: a welding area disposed along the flow path within a range where the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, so as to weld the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member to each other; a partitioned welding area, which is a region formed by dividing the welding area into predetermined ranges; and a clamping area disposed adjacent to the partitioned welding area and clamped by a clamping mechanism.

[0012] To address the aforementioned problems, the clamping device disclosed herein is used to clamp a plate-shaped cooling device, wherein the plate-shaped cooling device comprises: a first plate-shaped member; and a second plate-shaped member having a flow path for coolant flow on a welding surface side welded to the first plate-shaped member, the second plate-shaped member further comprising: a welding area disposed along the flow path within a range where the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, so as to clamp the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member against each other. Welding; a partitioned welding area, which is a region formed by dividing the welding area into predetermined ranges; and a clamped area, which is located adjacent to the partitioned welding area and clamped by a clamping mechanism, wherein the clamping device includes: a clamping part, which, after the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, takes two clamped areas located at the closest positions to each other across the partitioned welding area as a group of clamped areas, and fixes the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member to each other by the clamping mechanism for the group of clamped areas.

[0013] (Invention effect)

[0014] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an assembly method can be implemented for a plate-shaped cooling device having a flow path for coolant circulation with superior liquid tightness and air tightness compared to the prior art. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a plate-shaped cooling device according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2 From Figure 3 The enlarged sectional view shown in the direction of arrow AA.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a plan view of a plate-shaped cooling device.

[0018] Figure 4 It is a plan view of the plate-shaped cooling device, showing the welding area.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a partial plan view of the schematic structure of a clamping device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 6 Observation from the rear Figure 5 Rear view of the clamping device shown.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the state when a laser beam is irradiated onto the outer welding area of ​​a plate-shaped cooling device.

[0022] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0023] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of the dashed box E shown. Detailed Implementation

[0024] (Implementation Method 1)

[0025] The following is a detailed description of one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a plate-shaped cooling device 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 From Figure 3 The enlarged sectional view shown in the direction of arrow AA. Figure 3 This is a plan view of the plate-shaped cooling device 1. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, the up-down, left-right, and front-back directions are defined as shown by the arrows in each figure. However, it should be noted that these directions are only used to indicate the relative positional relationship in a single state, and the relative positional relationship may change depending on the installation orientation of the plate-shaped cooling device 1.

[0027] (Overview of the plate cooling device)

[0028] The plate-shaped cooling device 1 is used to cool the battery installed in electric vehicles, etc., and is disposed inside the electric vehicle, etc., in contact with the battery. Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown in the plan view, the plate-shaped cooling device 1 is rectangular and includes a first plate-shaped member 3 and a second plate-shaped member 2 disposed opposite to the first plate-shaped member 3. The shape of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 is not limited to being rectangular in the plan view, and can be appropriately shaped according to the shape of the battery it abuts against. The first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are welded to each other, for example, by laser welding, and a flow path 21 for the flow of coolant is formed on the inner surface side (welded surface side) of each plate-shaped member. Details of the flow path 21 will be described later.

[0029] (First plate-shaped member)

[0030] The first plate-shaped member 3 is a thin plate and is arranged opposite to the second plate-shaped member 2. In plan view, the first plate-shaped member 3 is generally rectangular. The first plate-shaped member 3 has side plates 31 extending downward from its two ends in the left and right directions, respectively.

[0031] The side panel 31 is a plate-shaped member assembled to the battery or an internal automotive component by fasteners such as screws. The first plate-shaped member 3 has an intake port 32 for drawing in coolant and an outlet port 33 for discharging coolant. Here, the side panel 31 is not a necessary structure, and a solution without the side panel 31 can also be adopted. In this case, the first plate-shaped member 3 can be formed into a flat plate shape. Furthermore, the first plate-shaped member 3 only needs to have a surface for opposing the second plate-shaped member 2; for example, the first plate-shaped member 3 can also be a box-shaped housing.

[0032] In the following description, the side with the intake port 32 is sometimes referred to as the upstream side, and the side with the discharge port 33 is referred to as the downstream side. The first plate-shaped member 3 is formed, for example, from a material with excellent weldability and durability such as stainless steel (SUS). Here, the material of the first plate-shaped member 3 is not limited to stainless steel, but may also be formed from a material with high thermal conductivity such as aluminum.

[0033] (Second plate-shaped member)

[0034] The second plate-shaped member 2 is a thin plate and is positioned opposite the first plate-shaped member 3. In plan view, the second plate-shaped member 2 is roughly rectangular. The second plate-shaped member 2 is formed, for example, from a material with high thermal conductivity such as aluminum.

[0035] The second plate-shaped member 2 includes: a flow path 21 for coolant to flow on the welded side where it is welded to the first plate-shaped member 3; and a welded area YR (see...). Figure 4 ); partitioned welding area L1; and clamped area C.

[0036] (Flow path)

[0037] like Figure 3 As shown in the plan view of the second plate-shaped member 2, the flow path 21 is formed meanderingly in the left-right direction at certain intervals. More specifically, a straight flow path 21 extending from front to rear is formed, with a U-shaped bend at the rear end of the flow path 21, and a straight flow path 21 extending forward from the end of the bend, with a U-shaped bend at the front end of the flow path 21. Subsequently, the flow path 21 is formed by combining the straight portion and the bend from the upstream side to the downstream side.

[0038] Flow path 21 is the space for coolant to flow. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are stacked vertically and welded together, thereby creating a space for coolant flow in a liquid-tight or airtight manner. More specifically, as... Figure 2 As shown, flow path 21 is an arched space formed between the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2, and has a curved surface at the top.

[0039] The flow path 21 is defined by the portion of the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2 that does not form a flow path 21 when they are stacked and welded together, that is, by the area of ​​contact between the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2 when they are stacked together.

[0040] Before the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are welded together, the flow path 21 is open towards the mating surface (lower side). The cross-sectional shape of the flow path 21 is not limited to an arch shape, but can also be a U-shape with the opening facing downwards, or an angular shape such as an inverted V-shape with the opening facing downwards when viewed in cross-section. That is to say, it can be a convex shape that at least has a flow space for coolant to flow.

[0041] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the upstream end of flow path 21 is connected to the intake port 32, and the downstream end is connected to the outlet port 33. Thus, the coolant drawn in from the intake port 32 flows according to... Figure 3 The coolant flows through the space of flow path 21 in the direction of the arrow shown and is discharged from the outlet 33. The coolant flows from the inlet 32 ​​through the interior of flow path 21 and reaches the outlet 33, thereby absorbing the heat of the battery to cool the battery.

[0042] (Welding area)

[0043] The following is combined Figure 4 The welding area YR is described below. Figure 4 This is a plan view of the plate-shaped cooling device 1, depicting the welding area YR. Figure 4 In order to facilitate the identification of the setting range of the welding area YR, the reference numerals of other components outside the welding area YR have been appropriately omitted.

[0044] The welding area YR is the region where laser welding is performed when the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are joined together. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the second plate-shaped member 2 has a welding area YR provided along the flow path 21, so as to weld the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 to each other. Figure 4 In the design, the welding area YR is a light-colored area, which is located on the surface of the second plate-shaped member 2. The welding area YR can also be located in multiple places on the surface of the second plate-shaped member 2.

[0045] Specifically, the welding area YR is located within the range where the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are stacked. "The range within which the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 abut against each other" refers to the range formed, in a left-right direction at certain intervals, between the meandering flow paths 21 when viewed from the plan view of the second plate-shaped member 2, and the welding area YR is located within this range. Figure 4 As shown, the welding area YR is the area formed by extending in the front-back direction along the flow path 21.

[0046] (Divided welding area)

[0047] The partitioned welding area L1 is the region where laser welding is performed when the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are joined together. The partitioned welding area L1 is pre-defined on the surface of the second plate-shaped member 2 for welding. Figure 4 The welding area YR shown is divided into regions according to a predetermined range. In other words, the partitioned welding area L1 can also be said to be the area contained within the welding area YR.

[0048] The "predetermined range" is a range arbitrarily set based on the size and shape of the second plate-shaped member 2 and the flow path 21, as well as the structure of the clamping device 4 described later. For example, if Figure 3 The two leftmost clamped areas C within the dashed box G shown correspond to the layout of a set of clamping parts 410 in the clamping device 4 described later. Therefore, a length shorter than the spacing between the clamping parts 410 can be set as a predetermined range. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the partitioned welding area L1 can also be located at multiple points on the surface of the second plate member 2.

[0049] In this embodiment, after the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are stacked, laser welding is performed on multiple partitioned welding areas L1 to join the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 together.

[0050] (Sandwiched area)

[0051] The clamped area C is the part that is pressed by the clamping part 410, which will be described later. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the clamped area C can also be located at multiple points on the surface of the second plate-shaped member 2.

[0052] More specifically, the clamped region C is located adjacent to the partitioned welding region L1. "Adjacent to the partitioned welding region L1" refers to a location that achieves the following configuration: Figure 3 As shown, in the welding area YR (see...) Figure 4Within the space, along the front-to-back direction, starting from the front, the clamped area C, the partition welding area L1, and the clamped area C are arranged sequentially. That is, the clamped area C is located adjacent to the partition welding area L1. In other words, the clamped area C is located in the front and rear adjacent positions of the partition welding area L1.

[0053] The clamped area C can also be located outside the welding area YR. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, the clamping part 410 can also be used to clamp the second plate-shaped member 2 near its outer periphery. Alternatively, it can be used to clamp the four corners of the second plate-shaped member 2. The clamped area C, located outside the welding area YR, is the part that is pressed by the clamping part 410 during laser welding of the outer peripheral welding area L2.

[0054] (Outer peripheral welding area)

[0055] like Figure 3 As shown by the dotted line, the outer peripheral welding area L2 is the area located outside the front-to-back direction and the left-to-right direction of the flow path 21 forming area in the second plate-shaped member 2. Figure 3 The outer peripheral welding area L2 shown in the dashed line is just an example. The outer peripheral welding area L2 can be arbitrarily set according to the size and shape of the second plate-shaped member 2 and the flow path 21.

[0056] Preferably, the peripheral welding area L2 is located near the outer edge of the flow path 21. By positioning the peripheral welding area L2 near the flow path 21, the flow path 21 can ensure liquid tightness or air tightness after the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2 are laser welded together.

[0057] (Clamping device)

[0058] Next, join Figure 5 and Figure 6 This describes a clamping device 4 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a partial plan view of the schematic structure of the clamping device 4 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 Observation from the rear Figure 5 The rear view of the clamping device 4 shown.

[0059] The clamping device 4 is a device for clamping the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 when laser welding is performed in a stacked state. Figure 5 As shown, the clamping device 4 includes a mounting section 44, a first arm 41, a second arm 42, and a third arm 43. The mounting section 44 is a flat plate member for mounting the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2 when the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2 are stacked.

[0060] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, multiple frames 41a are appropriately combined into a grid or lattice pattern to form the first arm 41. The combination of multiple frames 41a can be arbitrarily set. For example, only 3 frames 41a can be combined to form the first arm 41, or only 4 frames can be combined to form the first arm 41. Figure 6 As shown, the first arm 41 can change state between an open state and a closed state. Here, the first arm 41 in the open state is shown as a dashed line, and the first arm 41 in the closed state is shown as a solid line. The first arm 41 is supported in the clamping device 4 by a pivot 411. In addition, the first arm 41 has a gripping part 41b, which the user of the clamping device 4 uses to rotate the first arm 41 about the pivot 411.

[0061] The first arm 41 has multiple clamping parts 410. After the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2 placed on the mounting part 44 are stacked, the clamping parts 410 press and clamp the two clamped areas C located at the closest positions to each other across the partition welding area L1 as a set of clamped areas C.

[0062] "Two sandwiched regions C located at the closest positions to each other in the partitioned welding area L1" are, for example, separated by a front-to-back direction. Figure 3 The leftmost partition welding area L1 within the dashed box G is shown, with two clamped areas C. Within the dashed box G, from left to right, there are a total of 7 sets of clamped areas C.

[0063] Here, the leftmost clamped area C within the dashed box G, the partitioned welding area L1 behind the clamped area C, and the clamped area C behind the flow path 21 can also be considered as a group of clamped areas C.

[0064] In addition, such as Figure 3 The three clamped areas C surrounding the partitioned welding area L1, as shown by the dashed line D, can also be considered as a group of clamped areas C. That is, the clamped areas C located near the partitioned welding area L1 can be appropriately combined to form a group of clamped areas C. Thus, the clamping part 410 fixes the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 to each other to prevent them from moving in the front-back and left-right directions. Here, the "clamping mechanism" in this disclosure is a mechanism that presses and clamps the clamped areas C by means of the clamping part 410 as described above.

[0065] The following is combined Figure 9 This section describes the details of the multiple clamping parts 410 provided by the first arm 41. Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of the dashed box E shown.

[0066] like Figure 9 As shown, as a structure that allows each of the multiple clamping parts 410 to rise and fall independently, for example, the first arm 41 may have an actuator 4103 for raising and lowering the clamping parts 410. The actuator 4103 is connected to the shaft 4101 of the clamping part 410, and the shaft 4101 is raised and lowered via the actuator 4103 according to the control signal received by the actuator 4103. The shaft 4101 may also have a pressing part 4102 at a position opposite to the clamped area C.

[0067] The pressing part 4102 may be made of an elastomer, for example. The elastomer may be made of rubber material, for example. Alternatively, it may not be made of an elastomer, but may be made of plastic, or even a material with higher rigidity.

[0068] The control signal received by actuator 4103 can also be a signal controlling the pressing force applied by pressing part 4102 to clamped area C. Furthermore, the control signal received by actuator 4103 can also be a signal controlling the stroke distance used to adjust the lifting position of shaft 4101. By enabling multiple clamping parts 410 to lift and lower independently, each clamping part 410 can individually clamp the clamped area C. As actuator 4103, a piezoelectric actuator with a piezoelectric element is preferred, but it is not limited thereto. For example, a pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric actuator can also be used.

[0069] return Figure 5 and Figure 6 Multiple frames 42a are appropriately combined into a grid or lattice pattern to form the second arm 42. The combination of multiple frames 42a can be arbitrarily set. For example, only 3 frames 42a can be combined to form the second arm 42, or only 4 frames can be combined to form the second arm 42. The second arm 42 is supported in the clamping device 4 by a rotating shaft 420. The second arm 42 can rotate about the rotating shaft 420 in the vertical direction.

[0070] After the first arm 41 is closed, the second arm 42 presses down from top to bottom against the frame 41a located on the side (right side) of the second arm 42 among the multiple frames 41a of the first arm 41.

[0071] Specifically, by changing the second arm 42 from an open state to a closed state, the first arm 41 is pressed and fixed from top to bottom. This increases the pressing force of the clamping part 410. Here, a clamping part 410 with the same structure as the clamping part 410 provided on the second arm 42 may also be provided.

[0072] Multiple frames 43a are appropriately combined into a grid or lattice pattern to form the third arm 43. The combination of multiple frames 43a can be arbitrarily set. For example, only 3 frames 43a can be combined to form the third arm 43, or only 4 frames can be combined to form the third arm 43. The third arm 43 is supported in the clamping device by a pivot (not shown). The third arm 43 can rotate about the pivot in the vertical direction.

[0073] The third arm 43 is located on the front and rear sides of the clamping device 4, pressing and fixing the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 together from top to bottom. Specifically, by changing the third arm 43 from an open state to a closed state, the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are pressed and fixed together from top to bottom. This restricts the movement of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 in the front-rear direction. Here, a clamping part 410 with the same structure as the clamping part 410 provided in the first arm 41 may also be provided on the third arm 43.

[0074] The opening and closing actions of the first arm 41, the second arm 42 and the third arm can be performed manually by the user, or the actions of the first arm 41, the second arm 42 and the third arm 43 can be controlled by the actuator, for example, according to the control signal received by the actuator.

[0075] (Assembly method of plate-shaped cooling device)

[0076] Next, the assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 will be described. The first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are manufactured, for example, by stamping.

[0077] (Clamping process)

[0078] First, the first plate-shaped member 3 is placed on the mounting portion 44 of the clamping device 4, with the surface to be welded facing upwards. Next, the second plate-shaped member 2 is placed on the first plate-shaped member 3 already mounted on the mounting portion 44, with the surface to be welded facing downwards. The mounting surface of the mounting portion 44 is preferably configured in such a way that the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 mounted on the mounting portion 44 are kept horizontal, but it is not limited to this. For example, the mounting surface of the mounting portion 44 may also be configured to be non-horizontal depending on the processing conditions, shape, etc. of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2.

[0079] After the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are stacked, the first arm 41 of the clamping device 4 is changed from the open state to the closed state. After the first arm 41 is closed, the second arm 42 is then closed. The third arm 43 can be closed at any time before or after the first arm 41 or the second arm 42 is closed.

[0080] Specifically, after stacking the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2, two clamping areas C located at their closest positions across the partitioned welding area L1 are designated as a set of clamping areas C. Then, for this set of clamping areas C, the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are fixed together by a clamping mechanism. The clamping process is the process of fixing the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 together.

[0081] In this embodiment, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the clamping device 4 achieves a closed state by rotating the first arm 41 downwards around the pivot 411, thereby clamping all the clamped areas C located adjacent to the multiple partitioned welding areas L1. By clamping all the clamped areas C corresponding to the multiple partitioned welding areas L1, the thermal deformation that may occur in the plate-shaped component during laser welding can be reduced. In addition, since it can compress the tiny gaps caused by the manufacturing tolerances of the plate-shaped component, the liquid tightness and air tightness of the flow path 21 can be improved.

[0082] Here, the first arm 41 is not limited to clamping all the clamped areas C located adjacent to the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 as described above. It can also be appropriately modified according to the design of the clamping device 4 and the shape of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 to be clamped by the clamping device 4. For example, it can also be... Figure 3 All the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 within the dashed box G shown are grouped together, and the clamped areas C, which are respectively located adjacent to the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 obtained by the grouping, are simultaneously pressed together by the first arm 41. In this case, for example, the first arm 41 may also have a clamping part 410 at a position where the clamped areas C, which are respectively located adjacent to the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 obtained by the grouping, can be clamped in the closed state of the first arm 41 (hereinafter referred to as the position opposite to the clamped areas C).

[0083] Furthermore, in the clamping device 4 that clamps the clamped areas C located adjacent to the multiple partitioned welding areas L1, the multiple clamping parts 410 located opposite the clamped areas C can also be individually movable. For example, consider the case where the first arm 41, the second arm 42, and the third arm 43 are all in a closed state. In this case, the clamping parts 410 located opposite the partitioned welding areas L1 can also be individually movable. Figure 3 In the leftmost partition welding area L1 within the dashed box G shown, two clamping parts 410, positioned opposite each other in the front-to-back direction, lower from the top to the bottom to clamp the two clamped areas C. In this case, the other clamping parts 410 do not come into contact with the other clamped areas C. That is, the other clamping parts 410 do not lower from the top to the bottom.

[0084] Furthermore, the sequence in which the clamping part 410 abuts against the clamped area C when the first arm 41 changes from the open state to the closed state can be preset. For example, when the first arm 41 is in the closed state, the clamping part 410 that first contacts the central position of the second plate-shaped member 2 can be preset.

[0085] Next, the clamping part 410 is lowered individually from the top to the bottom. Thus, when the first arm 41 is closed, the clamping part 410 that has been lowered individually comes into contact with the center position. Then, starting from the clamping part 410 that has contacted the center position, the other clamping parts 410 are sequentially brought into contact with the clamped area C outward.

[0086] While the above description indicates that the clamping part 410 is pre-set to first abut against the central position of the second plate-shaped member 2, it is not limited thereto. For example, the raising and lowering of a plurality of corresponding clamping parts 410 within a predetermined range can be pre-set for any predetermined range within the clamped area C.

[0087] Furthermore, among the multiple clamping parts 410, there may be one or more clamping parts 410 that perform individual lifting and lowering. This is also true for the case where the second arm 42 and the third arm 43 each have a clamping part 410.

[0088] Therefore, after stacking the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2, deformation of the plate-shaped members that occurs when clamping the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 with the clamping device 4 can be reduced. Furthermore, even if the shapes of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are difficult to clamp, such as having many irregularities or uneven thickness, the pressing force of the clamping part 410 can be applied evenly. Moreover, the clamping part 410 can be used to clamp the plate-shaped members according to their deformation shape.

[0089] (Welding process)

[0090] Next, a clamping process is performed, with the clamped area C clamped, to weld the partitioned welding area L1. The welding process is performed using a laser welding device. The laser welding device can be integrated with the clamping device 4 or separate from it. Since the laser welding device is known technology, detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0091] The laser welding apparatus irradiates a laser beam L onto the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2, which are the objects of welding (see...). Figure 7 and Figure 8 To weld the workpiece. In a welding process performed using a laser welding device, for example, while the laser head is irradiated at 50 (see...) Figure 7 and Figure 8The laser beam L is continuously irradiated onto the partitioned welding area L1 while performing a straight sweep.

[0092] The laser irradiation head 50 can be mounted on a robot arm, for example, and the laser irradiation head 50 can be swept away by moving the robot arm.

[0093] Alternatively, with the laser irradiation head 50 fixed to the laser welding device, a reflector can be used to deflect the laser beam L irradiated from the laser irradiation head 50 to continuously irradiate the partitioned welding area L1.

[0094] In addition, with the laser irradiation head 50 fixed to the laser welding device, the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2, which are the objects to be welded, can be moved by the XY-axis worktable (to control the position of the objects to be welded).

[0095] Specifically, in the welding process, the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are welded together using a wire welding method that continuously irradiates a laser beam L onto the partitioned welding area L1 to form a weld line. The welding method is not limited to laser welding; for example, it can also be an electric arc welding, electron beam welding, plasma arc welding, or other fusion welding methods. Furthermore, flux (adhesive) used in brazing or other brazing methods can also be used.

[0096] In the welding process, as an example, the welding is performed sequentially from left to right. Figure 3 The multiple partitioned welding areas L1 arranged within the dashed box G are welded. Then, from left to right, welding is performed on the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 located in front of and parallel to the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 within the dashed box G, or on the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 located behind and parallel to the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 within the dashed box G. The welding order of the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 is not limited to this; for example…

[0097] After completing the welding of all partitioned welding areas L1, the process proceeds to the peripheral welding procedure described later. By sequentially performing the welding procedure on multiple partitioned welding areas L1 in this way, the efficiency of the welding operation can be improved.

[0098] Here, although in this embodiment, the welding of all the partitioned welding areas L1 is completed before proceeding to the peripheral welding process described later, it is not limited to this. For example, in the welding process, after the welding process of one partitioned welding area L1 is completed, the clamping part 410 may be released from the clamped area C.

[0099] Alternatively, after completing the welding process for one partitioned welding area L1, a clamping process can be performed again on other partitioned welding areas L1 that are different from that partitioned welding area L1, and then the other partitioned welding areas L1 can be welded. In this case, for example, after the first arm 41, the second arm 42, and the third arm 43 are in a closed state, laser welding can be performed on one of the multiple partitioned welding areas L1.

[0100] Furthermore, if all the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 are grouped together as described above, the welding process for multiple partitioned welding areas L1 belonging to the same group can be performed after the welding process for multiple partitioned welding areas L1 belonging to the same group is completed.

[0101] In this way, the following series of actions can be performed: after laser welding is completed, the first arm 41, the second arm 42 and the third arm 43 are in the open state; clamping process; welding; unclamping; clamping process.

[0102] Furthermore, the clamping device 4, which has a clamping part 410 that clamps only a set of clamped areas C corresponding to the same partition welding area L1, can also repeat the above series of operations.

[0103] The phrase "clamping only one set of clamped regions C" could mean, for example, clamping only the area separated by... Figure 3 The leftmost partitioned welding area L1 within the dashed box G shown has two clamped areas C along the front-to-back direction. Furthermore, the welding operation performed on the partitioned welding area L1 through the aforementioned series of actions can be executed sequentially either along the front-to-back direction or sequentially along the left-to-right direction.

[0104] Furthermore, the welding operations performed on the partitioned welding area L1 through the above series of actions can also be performed sequentially along, for example, diagonal directions intersecting the front-back and left-right directions. Alternatively, all partitioned welding areas L1 arranged in multiple directions in the front-back, left-right, and diagonal directions can be treated as a front-back group, a left-right group, and a diagonal group, and their welding can be performed sequentially.

[0105] In the welding operation performed on the partitioned welding area L1 through the above series of actions, the setting of the area assigned to each group and the order of welding / clamping of each group can also be performed by appropriate changes according to the shape, design and material of the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2, in order to minimize the overall deformation of the product.

[0106] (External welding process)

[0107] After all the partitioned welding areas L1 have been welded, a peripheral welding process is performed to wire weld the outer peripheral welding area L2. While it is preferable, as described above, to perform the peripheral welding process on the outer peripheral welding area L2 after all the partitioned welding areas L1 have been welded, this is not a limitation. Alternatively, the welding process on the partitioned welding areas L1 can be performed after the peripheral welding process.

[0108] The following explanation, in conjunction with Figure 7 and Figure 8 Let me explain. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the state when a laser beam L is irradiated onto the outer periphery welding area L2 of the plate-shaped cooling device 1. Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0109] After clamping the clamped area C outside the welding area YR using the clamping part 410, a laser beam L is irradiated onto the outer peripheral welding area L2, thereby performing the outer peripheral welding process by laser welding.

[0110] In the peripheral welding process, the clamped areas are, for example, near the outer periphery of the second plate member 2 and at the four corners of the second plate member 2. Here, the clamped area C located within the welding area YR may also be clamped as needed.

[0111] like Figure 7 As shown, the laser beam L used for welding the outer peripheral welding area L2 is tilted relative to the sweeping direction of the laser beam L. Figure 7 The middle direction is the direction of intersection (front and back).

[0112] More specifically, the laser beam L is angled towards the inside of the outer peripheral welding area L2. Figure 7 The welding is performed in the manner shown on the right side (in the middle). That is to say, when performing laser welding on the outer peripheral welding area L2, the irradiation angle of the laser beam L is always tilted inward.

[0113] Below, in conjunction with Figure 8 The spatter S generated during laser welding is explained here. Figure 8 For ease of explanation, a gap is depicted between the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2, and the state of the splash S scattering into the gap is shown.

[0114] When a laser beam L is irradiated onto the outer welding area L2, the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are heated within the area irradiated by the laser beam L, forming a molten pit F. The molten first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 evaporate from the molten pit F and scatter around the molten pit F, forming tiny particles. These scattered particles are the spatter S.

[0115] Since the splash S consists of tiny particles, it may intrude into the flow path 21 from the tiny gap between the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2. However, when... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, when laser welding is performed with the laser beam L angled towards the inner side of the outer welding area L2, it is easier to guide the spatter S to the side opposite to the flow path 21, i.e., the outer side. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the intrusion of spatter S generated during welding into the flow path 21.

[0116] Here, in the peripheral welding process, in order to easily guide the spatter S outward, the irradiation angle of the laser beam L is tilted inward by 5° to 45° from the angle perpendicular to the welding surface of the object being welded by the laser beam L. More preferably, the irradiation angle of the laser beam L is tilted inward by 7° to 20° from the angle perpendicular to the welding surface of the object being welded by the laser beam L.

[0117] (Modified Example)

[0118] The following variations can be appropriately applied to this embodiment. Furthermore, the variations can also be implemented in combination with each other within the scope of technical inconsistencies.

[0119] (Variation Example 1)

[0120] Although the above embodiments describe a configuration where the second plate-shaped member 2 has a flow path 21, a welding area YR, a partitioned welding area L1, and a clamping area C, it is also possible for the first plate-shaped member 3 to have the same configuration. That is, either the first plate-shaped member 3 or the second plate-shaped member 2 may have the same configuration.

[0121] (Variation Example 2)

[0122] While the above embodiment describes a method where the clamping part 410 mechanically presses and clamps the clamped area C, it is not limited to this. For example, an electromagnetic clamp may be used instead. When using an electromagnetic clamp, an electromagnetic coil may be embedded in the mounting part 44, and current may flow through the position corresponding to the clamped area C within the range of the electromagnetic coil embedded in the mounting part 44 to generate magnetic force for clamping.

[0123] (Variation Example 3)

[0124] Although the above embodiments describe the use of Figure 3As shown in the plan view of the second plate-shaped member 2, the flow path 21 is formed in a meandering pattern at certain intervals in the left-right direction, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may also consist only of straight flow paths extending in the forward direction and backward direction. In this case, coolant inlets 32 and outlets 33 may be provided at the front and rear ends of each flow path. Furthermore, straight flow paths that intersect with the straight flow paths extending in the forward direction and backward direction may be combined with them. That is, as shown in the plan view, the flow path formation pattern may be a grid or an orthogonal grid in which the flow paths intersect at right angles.

[0125] (Effects)

[0126] As described above, the following effects can be achieved according to this embodiment.

[0127] In the assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 according to aspect 1 of this disclosure, the plate-shaped cooling device 1 includes: a first plate-shaped member 3; and a second plate-shaped member 2, which has a flow path 21 for coolant flow on the welding surface side to be welded to the first plate-shaped member 3. The second plate-shaped member 2 further includes: a welding area YR, which is provided along the flow path within the range where the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are stacked, so as to weld the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 to each other; and a partitioned welding area L1, which is for partitioning the welding area YR according to a predetermined plan. The assembly method comprises: a region divided into zones; and a clamped region C, which is located adjacent to the partitioned welding region L1 and is clamped by a clamping mechanism; and the assembly method includes: a clamping step, in which, after the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are stacked, two clamped regions C located at the closest positions to each other across the partitioned welding region L1 are taken as a group of clamped regions, and the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are fixed to each other by the clamping mechanism for the group of clamped regions C; and a welding step, in which the partitioned welding region L1 is welded while the clamped regions C are clamped by the clamping step.

[0128] According to the above scheme, a set of clamped regions C located at the closest positions to each other across the partitioned welding areas L1 can be fixed by a clamping mechanism. Furthermore, welding of the partitioned welding areas L1 can be performed while the set of clamped regions C is clamped. Thus, the partitioned welding areas L1 can be strongly fixed, thereby reducing deformation of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 while achieving high-precision welding. Therefore, an assembly method can be realized for the plate-shaped cooling device 1, which has a flow path 21 for coolant flow and superior liquid and air tightness compared to the prior art.

[0129] In the assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 according to aspect 2 of this disclosure based on aspect 1, the welding process can also be performed by wire welding.

[0130] According to the above scheme, the partitioned welding area L1 can be welded using wire welding. This improves the efficiency of the welding process.

[0131] In the assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 according to aspect 3 of this disclosure based on aspect 1 or 2, the welding process may also further include: an outer peripheral welding process, welding an outer peripheral welding area L2 located outside the forming area of ​​the flow path 21.

[0132] According to the above scheme, not only can the partitioned welding area L1 be welded, but also the outer peripheral welding area L2 can be welded. This can further improve the liquid tightness and gas tightness of the flow path 21.

[0133] In the assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 according to aspect 4 of this disclosure based on aspect 3, the peripheral welding process can also be performed as follows: laser welding is performed by irradiating the peripheral welding area L2 with a laser beam L, and the irradiation angle of the laser beam L welding the peripheral welding area L2 is tilted both in a direction that intersects with the sweeping direction of the laser beam L and inward towards the outer peripheral welding area L2.

[0134] According to the above scheme, when laser welding is performed on the peripheral welding area L2 through the peripheral welding process, the irradiation angle of the laser beam L can be tilted both in a direction intersecting the sweeping direction of the laser beam L and towards the inside of the peripheral welding area L2. This reduces the intrusion of spatter S that may be generated during laser beam L irradiation into the flow path 21.

[0135] In the assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 according to aspect 5 of this disclosure based on aspects 1 to 4, the welding process may also include: after completing the welding process for one of the partitioned welding areas L1, releasing the clamping of the clamped area C, and welding the other partitioned welding areas L1 that are different from the partitioned welding areas L1 for which the welding process has been completed after performing the clamping process.

[0136] According to the above scheme, welding operations are performed on each partitioned welding area L1, and the clamps are released upon completion of each welding operation. That is, the sequence and timing of clamping and releasing can be controlled through the welding operations of a single partitioned welding area L1. Therefore, the fixed state of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 can be released upon completion of each welding operation. This allows for the dissipation of heat generated during welding. Consequently, thermal deformation during welding can be dispersed, thereby reducing the overall deformation of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2.

[0137] In the assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 according to aspect 6 of this disclosure based on aspects 1 to 5, the clamping process may also include clamping the plurality of partitioned welding areas L1 as a group.

[0138] According to the above scheme, multiple partitioned welding areas L1 are grouped together for the clamping process. Therefore, even if the plate-shaped cooling device 1 is large, it is possible to group the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 together for the welding process. Thus, the processing efficiency of the welding process is improved compared to existing technologies.

[0139] The plate-shaped cooling device 1 disclosed in aspect 8 comprises: a first plate-shaped member 3; and a second plate-shaped member 2 having a flow path 21 for coolant flow on the welding surface side to which it is welded to the first plate-shaped member 3. The second plate-shaped member 2 further comprises: a welding area YR, which is provided along the flow path 21 within the range where the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are stacked, so as to weld the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 to each other; a partitioned welding area L1, which is a region formed by partitioning the welding area YR into predetermined ranges; and a clamping area C, which is provided at a position adjacent to the partitioned welding area L1 and is clamped by a clamping mechanism.

[0140] The clamping device 4 disclosed in aspect 9 is used to clamp a plate-shaped cooling device 1, wherein the plate-shaped cooling device includes: a first plate-shaped member 3; and a second plate-shaped member 2, which has a flow path 21 for coolant flow on the welding surface side to be welded to the first plate-shaped member 3, the second plate-shaped member 2 further having: a welding area YR, which is provided along the flow path 21 within the range where the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are stacked, so as to weld the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 to each other; The partitioned welding area L1 is a region formed by dividing the welding area YR into predetermined ranges; and the clamped area C is located adjacent to the partitioned welding area L1 and is clamped by the clamping mechanism. The clamping device 4 includes a clamping part 410, which, after the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2 are stacked, takes two clamped areas C located at the closest positions to each other across the partitioned welding area L1 as a group of clamped areas C, and fixes the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2 to each other by the clamping mechanism for the group of clamped areas C.

[0141] (Implementation Method 2)

[0142] The following describes Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. For ease of explanation, components having the same function as those described in Embodiment 1 are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again. The difference between Embodiment 2 and Embodiment 1 lies in the clamping process.

[0143] (Clamping process)

[0144] (First clamping step)

[0145] In Embodiment 1, after the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are stacked, the first arm 41 of the clamping device 4 is changed from an open state to a closed state. In the clamping process of Embodiment 2, at least the front-rear end edge of the periphery formed by the stacking of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 is clamped by the clamping mechanism (the first clamping process disclosed herein).

[0146] Specifically, Figure 3 The outer periphery of the second plate member 2 shown is taken as an example of the "peripheral part". The clamping area C provided in the front-back direction in the clamping area C near the peripheral part is clamped by the clamping part 410 provided by the third arm 43.

[0147] Here, the portion clamped by the third arm 43 is not limited to the front-to-back edge; for example, it could be the left-to-right edge of the periphery formed by the stacking of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2. Furthermore, it could clamp the front-to-back and left-to-right edges of the periphery formed by the stacking of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2; in other words, it could clamp the entire circumference of the periphery. The edge clamped in the first clamping step can be appropriately set according to the shape and size of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2. Additionally, depending on the position of the edge to be clamped in the first clamping step, it can be clamped by the first arm 41 and the second arm 42.

[0148] (Second clamping process)

[0149] After the first clamping step, a set of clamped areas C is clamped by means of a clamping mechanism in a manner that fixes the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 to each other (the second clamping step disclosed herein). Specifically, the first arm 41 is changed from an open state to a closed state, and after the first arm 41 is in the closed state, the second arm 42 is closed, thereby clamping the clamped areas C corresponding to the clamping portions 410 provided in each of the first arm 41 and the second arm 42. Here, the explanation of "a set of clamped areas C" can be the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0150] (Clamping force adjustment process)

[0151] From the execution of the second clamping step until a predetermined time has elapsed, while maintaining the clamping state applied by the clamping mechanism in the first clamping step, the clamping force applied by the clamping mechanism in the first clamping step is adjusted to be lower than the clamping force at the start of clamping (the clamping force adjustment step disclosed herein). Specifically, when the first arm 41, the second arm 42, and the third arm 43 are in the closed state, while maintaining the clamping state of the third arm 43, the clamping force (pressing force) of the third arm 43 on the plate-shaped member is reduced within a predetermined time. The predetermined time is, for example, 1 to 2 seconds. The predetermined time can be appropriately set according to the thickness, material, shape, etc. of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 that are being clamped. The phrase "adjusting the clamping force to be lower than the clamping force at the start of clamping" means, for example, that if the clamping force at the start of clamping is 40 Newtons (N), it is adjusted to a value less than 40 N, and preferably adjusted to a value close to 0 (zero) N while maintaining the clamping state.

[0152] (Clamping force recovery process)

[0153] After the clamping force adjustment process, the clamping force applied by the clamping mechanism in the first clamping process is adjusted to be higher than the clamping force that was reduced in the clamping force adjustment process (the clamping force recovery process disclosed herein). Specifically, after a predetermined time has elapsed after the second clamping process is performed, the clamping force of the third arm 43 is restored.

[0154] The term "restoring clamping force" simply means adjusting it to a higher level than the clamping force that was reduced during the clamping force adjustment process. The value does not need to be the same as the clamping force applied when the third arm 43 begins clamping the clamped area C. For example, if the clamping force was reduced to 5N during the clamping force adjustment process, then any value higher than 5N can also fall under the category of "restoring clamping force."

[0155] The recovery value of the clamping force can also be the same as the clamping force when the third arm 43 begins to clamp the clamped area C through the first clamping process. Alternatively, it can be a higher value than the clamping force when the third arm 43 begins to clamp the clamped area C.

[0156] After the clamping force recovery process, the welding process and the peripheral welding process are performed in the same manner as in Embodiment 1.

[0157] (Modified Example)

[0158] This variation can be appropriately applied to this embodiment. Furthermore, this variation can also be implemented in combination with Embodiment 1 and its variations, provided there are no technical inconsistencies.

[0159] In the above embodiments, the clamping process is performed before the welding process. However, this is not a limitation. For example, regarding the welding process, after completing the welding process for a partitioned welding area L1, the clamping process can be performed again for other partitioned welding areas L1 that are different from that partitioned welding area L1, and then the other partitioned welding areas L1 can be welded. That is, the clamping process and the welding process can be performed sequentially for each partitioned welding area L1.

[0160] Furthermore, similar to implementation 1, for example, it can be... Figure 3 All the multiple partitioned welding areas L1 within the dashed box G shown are grouped together to perform clamping and welding operations.

[0161] (Effects)

[0162] In the assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device 1 disclosed in aspect 7, the clamping process may also include: a first clamping process, in which at least the front-rear end edge of the periphery formed by the stacking of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 is clamped by the clamping mechanism; a second clamping process, in which, after the first clamping process, the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 are fixed to each other by the clamping mechanism for the set of clamped areas C; a clamping force adjustment process, in which, from the execution of the second clamping process until a predetermined time has elapsed, the clamping state applied by the clamping mechanism in the first clamping process is maintained while the clamping force applied by the clamping mechanism in the first clamping process is adjusted to be lower than the clamping force at the start of clamping; and a clamping force recovery process, in which, after the clamping force adjustment process, the clamping force applied by the clamping mechanism in the first clamping process is adjusted to be higher than the clamping force reduced by the clamping force adjustment process.

[0163] According to the above scheme, the first clamping process, the second clamping process, the clamping force adjustment process, and the clamping force recovery process can be performed. Specifically, after performing the first clamping process and the second clamping process, the clamping force adjustment process is performed. As a result, compared to the case where the clamping force (pressing force) of the third arm 43 on the plate-shaped member is not reduced, the deformation of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 that occurs when clamping with the first arm 41, the second arm 42, and the third arm 43 can be reduced. Furthermore, the clamping force recovery process can be performed while the welding process is being performed, even with the deformation of the first plate-shaped member 3 and the second plate-shaped member 2 reduced.

[0164] Therefore, the welding process can be performed with improved sealing between the first plate member 3 and the second plate member 2. Thus, an assembly method can be realized for the plate cooling device 1, which has a flow path 21 for coolant flow and superior liquid and air tightness compared to the prior art.

[0165] This disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various changes can be made within the scope of the overall technical concept shown. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0166] <Explanation of Figure Markers>

[0167] 1 Plate cooling device

[0168] 2. Second plate-shaped member

[0169] 3. First plate-shaped member

[0170] 21 flow path

[0171] 31 Side panels

[0172] 32 suction port

[0173] 33. Discharge outlet.

Claims

1. A method for assembling a plate-shaped cooling device, wherein the plate-shaped cooling device comprises: a first plate-shaped member; and a second plate-shaped member having a flow path for coolant flow on a weld surface side welded to the first plate-shaped member, the assembly method being characterized in that... The second plate-shaped member also has: A welding area, which is provided along the flow path, is located within the area where the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, so as to weld the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member to each other; A partitioned welding area is a region formed by dividing the welding area into predetermined ranges. as well as The clamped area, located adjacent to the partitioned welding area, is clamped by the clamping mechanism. Furthermore, the assembly method includes: In the clamping process, after the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, two clamping areas located at their closest positions across the partitioned welding areas are grouped as a set of clamping areas. For this set of clamping areas, the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are fixed together using the clamping mechanism; and In the welding process, the partitioned welding area is welded while the clamped area is clamped by the clamping process.

2. The assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The welding process is performed by wire welding.

3. The assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The welding process further includes: an outer peripheral welding process, which welds the outer peripheral welding area located outside the formation area of ​​the flow path.

4. The assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The peripheral welding process is performed as follows: a laser beam is irradiated onto the peripheral welding area to perform laser welding, and the irradiation angle of the laser beam welding the peripheral welding area is tilted both in a direction that intersects with the sweeping direction of the laser beam and towards the inside of the peripheral welding area.

5. The assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The welding process includes: After completing the welding process for one of the partitioned welding areas, the clamping of the clamped area is released, and for other partitioned welding areas that are different from the partitioned welding areas that have completed the welding process, the clamping process is performed before welding the other partitioned welding areas.

6. The assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping process includes clamping multiple partitioned welding areas as a group.

7. The assembly method of the plate-shaped cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping process includes: The first clamping step involves clamping at least the front-to-back end edge of the periphery formed by the stacking of the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member using the clamping mechanism. The second clamping step, after the first clamping step, involves fixing the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member to each other using the clamping mechanism for the set of clamped areas; The clamping force adjustment process, from the execution of the second clamping process until a predetermined time has elapsed, maintains the clamping state applied by the clamping mechanism in the first clamping process while adjusting the clamping force applied by the clamping mechanism in the first clamping process to be lower than the clamping force at the start of clamping; and The clamping force recovery process involves adjusting the clamping force applied by the clamping mechanism through the first clamping process to a higher level than the clamping force that was reduced through the clamping force adjustment process, after the clamping force adjustment process.

8. A plate-shaped cooling device, characterized in that, have: The first plate-shaped member; and The second plate-shaped member has a flow path for coolant flow on the weld surface side where it is welded to the first plate-shaped member. The second plate-shaped member also has: A welding area, which is provided along the flow path, is located within the area where the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, so as to weld the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member to each other; A partitioned welding area is a region formed by dividing the welding area into predetermined ranges. as well as The clamped area is located adjacent to the partitioned welding area and is clamped by the clamping mechanism.

9. A clamping device for clamping a plate-shaped cooling device, wherein the plate-shaped cooling device comprises: a first plate-shaped member; and a second plate-shaped member having a flow path for coolant flow on a weld surface side welded to the first plate-shaped member, characterized in that... The second plate-shaped member also has: A welding area, which is provided along the flow path, is located within the area where the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member abut against each other when the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, so as to weld the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member to each other; A partitioned welding area is a region formed by dividing the welding area into predetermined ranges. as well as The clamped area, located adjacent to the partitioned welding area, is clamped by the clamping mechanism. Furthermore, the clamping device includes: The clamping part, after the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member are stacked, takes two clamped areas located at the closest positions to each other across the partitioned welding area as a group of clamped areas, and fixes the first plate-shaped member and the second plate-shaped member to each other by the clamping mechanism for the group of clamped areas.

Images