COOLING SYSTEM AND VEHICLE

Abstract

A cooling system for a coolant comprises: a radiator with a core part; a fan section; a closure section; a first temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the coolant; and a control unit configured to make adjustments based on the first temperature detected by the first temperature sensor.The control unit is configured to switch between the following modes: a first mode in which, if the first detected temperature is a first temperature or below, the control unit rotates a first fan and stops the rotation of a second fan in a state where the control unit opens a first flap and closes a second flap; and a second mode in which, if the first detected temperature is a second temperature or below, where the second temperature is greater than the first temperature, the control unit rotates the first and second fans in a state where the control unit opens the first and second flaps.

Description

FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooling system and a vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0002] A coolant cooling device is disclosed, for example, in the Japanese patent application KOKAI publication no. 2018-043554, in which several fans arranged on the back of a cooler are rotated simultaneously to forcibly cool a sufficiently large area of ​​a core part (cooler core) of the cooler and thereby cool a coolant (cooling fluid).

[0003] When using a cooling system where multiple fans rotate simultaneously at the same frequency, differences in rotational speed or airflow between the fans can occur. If such a difference exists during the rotation of fans located at the rear of the cooler's core, in line with the coolant flowing towards the core, the air will attempt to flow from a side of higher pressure to a side of lower pressure. This can impede the flow of forced cooling air through the core by the rotating fans, resulting in a reduction of the coolant's cooling capacity within the cooling system. SUMMARY

[0004] The aim of the present invention is to provide a cooling system for a coolant and a vehicle comprising this cooling system, with which a favorable cooling performance of the coolant flowing through a core part of a radiator can be achieved.

[0005] According to one aspect of the invention, a cooling system for a coolant comprises: a cooler with a core part through which air is guided from a front to a rear, the core part being virtually divided along a flow direction in which a coolant flows into a first region and a second region, the first region being located on a side closer to an upstream side and acting as an inlet for the coolant that has passed a heat source, the second region being located on a side closer to a downstream side than to the upstream side and acting as an outlet for the coolant; a fan section provided on the rear of the core part, the fan section comprising a first fan facing the first region and a second fan facing the second region;a closure section provided on the front or rear of the core part or on the rear of the fan section, the closure section comprising: a first closure facing the first area and configured to open and close for the first area; a second closure facing the second area and configured to open and close for the second area; a fan cover surrounding an outer circumference of the first fan and an outer circumference of the second fan on the rear of the core part and separating the first area and the second area on the rear of the core part; a first temperature sensor configured to detect, as the first detection temperature, a temperature of the coolant at a predetermined position on a side closer to the coolant outlet;and a control unit configured to independently control the first and second fans of the fan section, and the first and second flaps of the flap section, based on the initial temperature reading from the first temperature sensor. The control unit is configured to switch between the following modes: a first mode in which, if the initial temperature reading is a certain temperature or below, the control unit is configured to rotate the first fan and stops rotating the second fan; in which the control unit is configured to open the first flap and close the second flap;and a second mode in which, if the first detection temperature is a second temperature or lower, where the second temperature is greater than the first temperature, the control device is configured to rotate the first fan and the second fan in a state in which the control device is configured to open the first flap and the second flap.

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a cooling system for a coolant and a vehicle comprising the cooling system, which is capable of achieving favorable cooling performance of the coolant flowing through a core part of a radiator. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing part of a front section of a vehicle according to a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cooling device from one direction along line II-II in Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic block diagram relating to the cooling of a heat source of the vehicle according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 4 is a flowchart relating to a coolant cooling process using a cooling device according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram relating to the cooling of a heat source of a vehicle according to a first modification of the first embodiment. Fig. 6 is a flowchart relating to a coolant cooling process using a Fig. Refers to the cooling device shown in section 5. Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing part of a front section of a vehicle according to a second modification of the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing part of a front section of a vehicle according to a second embodiment. Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing part of a front section of a vehicle according to a third embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing part of a front section of a vehicle according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0007] A vehicle 10 with a cooling system 22 for cooling a coolant (a cooling fluid) which has been passed through a heat source 12 is described with reference to the attached drawings. (First embodiment)

[0008] A vehicle 10 with a cooling system 22 for a coolant (coolant fluid) according to a first embodiment is described with reference to the Fig. 1 to 4 described.

[0009] Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing part of a front section of the vehicle 10 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cooling device 14 from a direction along line II-II in Fig. Figure 1 shows. Note that the cooling device is 14 in Fig. 1 as a cross-sectional diagram along line II in Fig. 2 is shown. Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic block diagram relating to a device for cooling a heat source 12 of the vehicle 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0010] The front, back, top and bottom of vehicle 10 are in Fig. 1 shown. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 10 includes a radiator grille 10a at the front. The radiator grille 10a is provided, for example, in a body of the vehicle 10 and serves as an inlet opening for air F into the body during driving, etc. of the vehicle 10.

[0011] The vehicle 10 comprises a heat source 12, a cooling device 14 for a coolant flowing through the heat source 12, flow paths 16a and 16b that allow the coolant to circulate through the heat source 12 and a cooler 32 of the cooling device 14 (described below), a temperature sensor 18 for measuring the temperature of the coolant, and a control unit 20. The cooling device 14, the flow paths 16a and 16b, the temperature sensor 18, and the control unit 20 are used as a cooling system 22 for cooling a coolant flowing through the heat source 12.

[0012] Examples of the heat source 12 are a motor as a drive source, an electric motor as a drive source, and a battery for supplying the motor with motive power, and the like. In the vehicle 10 according to the present embodiment, the heat source 12 is described as a battery; however, the heat source 12 can be either a motor, an electric motor, or the like. Examples of the vehicle 10 include the so-called motor vehicle, an electric vehicle (EV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV).

[0013] The cooling device 14 is provided at the rear of the radiator grille 10a of the vehicle 10 at a location where, during the journey of the vehicle 10, headwind (wind during the journey) blows through the radiator grille 10a.

[0014] The cooling device 14 comprises a cooler 32, a closure section 34, a fan section 36 and a fan cover (fan guide) 38.

[0015] It should be noted that in Fig. Figure 1 shows an example in which a condenser 40 is provided at the front of the radiator 32. The condenser 40 comprises several longitudinally connected sections so that the airflow (wind during travel) can be blown into the radiator 32. Instead of the front of the radiator 32, the condenser 40 can also be located on the top, bottom, left side, or right side of the radiator 32.

[0016] The radiator 32 is a heat exchanger designed to cool a coolant that has flowed through the heat source 12 with air (ambient air) F supplied through the radiator grille 10a of the vehicle 10. According to the present embodiment, the radiator 32 is a downflow radiator designed to allow coolant to flow from top to bottom. Flow path 16a is connected to a coolant outlet of the heat source 12 and to a coolant inlet of the radiator 32. Flow path 16b is also connected to a coolant inlet of the heat source 12 and to a coolant outlet of the radiator 32. Thus, the coolant flowing through flow path 16a on the upstream side, as viewed from the radiator 32, has a higher temperature than the coolant flowing through flow path 16b on the downstream side.

[0017] The cooler 32 comprises an upper tank 52, a lower tank 54 and a core part 56 between the upper tank 52 and the lower tank 54.

[0018] The upper tank 52 is provided at the coolant inlet to the radiator 32, namely at a connecting part between the flow path 16a and the radiator 32. The lower tank 54 is provided at the coolant outlet from the radiator 32, namely at a connecting part between the flow path 16b and the radiator 32.

[0019] In its external appearance, the core part 56 is, for example, designed in an essentially parallelepiped (parallel-tube) shape. The core part 56 allows the air (outside air) F supplied through the grid 10a to flow from a front to a back and gradually cools, by means of heat exchange, a coolant that has flowed through the heat source 12 and flows from the upstream side of the core part 56 as a hot fluid at a temperature that needs to be cooled, while the coolant flows downstream.In the present embodiment, the core part 56 is virtually divided into a first region (hereinafter mainly referred to as the "upper level") 56a on the top side closer to the upper tank 52 (closer to the upstream side along the coolant flow direction), a second region (hereinafter mainly referred to as the "middle level") 56b below it, and a third region (hereinafter mainly referred to as the "lower level") 56c on the bottom side (closer to the downstream side along the coolant flow direction) closer to the lower tank 54. It should be noted that in the core part 56, the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b are continuous and uninterrupted, and that the middle level 56b and the lower level 56c are continuous and uninterrupted.In this embodiment, the core part 56 is virtually divided into three parts along the coolant flow direction: the upper level 56a, the middle level 56b, and the lower level 56c. The upper level 56a, the middle level 56b, and the lower level 56c of the core part 56 are, for example, formed in a rectangular shape of the same size in both the front and rear planes of the core part 56.

[0020] The shutter section 34 is provided on the front of the cooler 32 and on one front of the condenser 40. The shutter section 34 is capable of allowing and / or blocking an airflow F drawn in through the grille 10a to the cooler 32. The shutter section 34 comprises a first shutter 62a facing the upper level 56a of the core part 56, a second shutter 62b facing the middle level 56b of the core part 56, and a third shutter 62c facing the lower level 56c of the core part 56.

[0021] Each of the flaps 62a, 62b, and 62c, for example, is composed of one or more movable bodies 63 extending in a right-left direction. The movable bodies 63 are, for example, rectangular plates. Each plate 63 is defined by a longer side, a shorter side, and a height (thickness). The longer side is greater than the shorter side. The shorter side is greater than the height (thickness). The plates 63 are supported at their end sections in the right-left direction and can be opened and closed by pivoting. The length of each plate 63 in the right-left direction is such that the front of the core part 56 can be covered in the right-left direction.

[0022] The first flap 62a, the second flap 62b, and the third flap 62c can be opened and closed independently of each other. On the other hand, the three plates 63 of the first flap 62a can be opened and closed in conjunction with each other. Similarly, the three plates 63 of the second flap 62b and the third flap 62c can be opened and closed in conjunction with each other. It should be noted that in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 the first closure 62a is in an open state and the second closure 62b and the third closure 62c are in a closed state.

[0023] It is preferable that the gap between the adjacent closures 62a and 62b in the closed state and the gap between the adjacent closures 62b and 62c in the closed state be small in order to prevent or suppress the flow of air F. The adjacent closures 62a and 62b in the closed state may partially overlap without a gap; likewise, the adjacent closures 62b and 62c in the closed state may partially overlap without a gap.

[0024] The shutter section 34 comprises a first shutter drive source 64a, designed to open and close the first shutter 62a, a second shutter drive source 64b, designed to open and close the second shutter 62b, and a third shutter drive source 64c, designed to open and close the third shutter 62c. These shutter drive sources 64a, 64b, and 64c are, for example, configured using a motor or a solenoid valve and are, for example, powered by current from a battery 12.

[0025] The fan section 36 is provided on the rear side of the core part 56. The fan section 36 serves to provide forced ventilation from the front to the rear of the core part 56. The fan section 36 comprises one or more first fans 72a directed towards the upper level 56a of the core part 56, one or more second fans 72b directed towards the middle level 56b of the core part 56, and one or more third fans 72c directed towards the lower level 56c of the core part 56. It is preferable that the fans 72a, 72b, and 72c be of the same type. In the present embodiment, two fans 72a, two fans 72b, and two fans 72c are arranged side by side, each facing the levels 56a, 56b, and 56c, respectively.

[0026] The fan section 36 comprises a first fan drive source 74a, designed to rotate the first fans 72a, a second fan drive source 74b, designed to rotate the second fans 72b, and a third fan drive source 74c, designed to rotate the third fans 72c. These fan drive sources 74a, 74b, and 74c are configured, for example, using a motor and are powered, for example, by energy from battery 12.

[0027] The first fans 72a, the second fans 72b, and the third fans 72c are able to control their rotation and pause independently. The first two fans 72a can be operated at the same rotational frequency. Likewise, the second two fans 72b and the third two fans 72c can be operated at the same rotational frequency.

[0028] The fan cover 38 covers the entire rear of the core part 56 and covers an outer area of ​​each of the fans 72a, 72b, and 72c. The fan cover 38 separates the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b from each other and separates the middle level 56b and the lower level 56c from each other at the rear of the core part 56 to allow airflow between the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b as well as between the middle level 56b and the lower level 56c at the rear of the core part 56.

[0029] In the present embodiment, the fan cover 38 comprises a first cylindrical section 82a in a cylindrical shape extending along an outer edge of a rear side of the upper plane 56a of the core part 56 or its surroundings, and the first cylindrical section 82a comprises two annular sections 82a1, each surrounding outer circumferences of the two first fans 72a.Similarly, the fan cover 38 comprises a second cylindrical section 82b in a cylindrical shape, extending along an outer edge of a rear side of the middle plane 56b of the core part 56 or its surroundings, and comprising two annular sections 82b1, each surrounding the outer circumferences of the two second fans 72b. Furthermore, the fan cover 38 comprises a third cylindrical section 82c in a cylindrical shape, extending along an outer edge of a rear side of the lower plane 56c of the core part 56 or its surroundings, and comprising two annular sections 82c1, each surrounding the outer circumferences of the two third fans 72c. In each of the cylindrical sections 82a, 82b, and 82c, the two fans 72a, the two fans 72b, and the two fans 72c, each surrounded by the corresponding two annular sections 82a1, 82b1, and 82c1, are arranged side by side.It should be noted that the three cylindrical sections 82a, 82b and 82c, for example, are formed in one piece.

[0030] It should also be noted that each of the cylindrical sections 82a, 82b, and 82c of the fan cover 38 has an end face 83 that is in contact with or near the rear of the core part 56. The fan cover 38 interrupts or prevents airflow between the cylindrical sections 82a and 82b via the end faces 83 and airflow between the cylindrical sections 82b and 82c via the end faces 83, regardless of whether the fans 72a, 72b, and 72c are rotating at the rear of the core part 56 or not.

[0031] The two fans 72a, the two fans 72b, and the two fans 72c are arranged, for example, at equal distances from each other in a right-left direction. The first pair of fans 72a is located on the rear of the upper level 56a of the core part 56, offset to the right of center in a right-left direction. The second pair of fans 72b is located on the rear of the middle level 56b of the core part 56, offset to the left of center. The third pair of fans 72c is located on the rear of the lower level 56c of the core part 56, offset to the right of center. The rightmost fan 72b of the second pair of fans 72b is positioned below the space between the first pair of fans 72a and above the space between the third pair of fans 72c. This allows the cooling device 14 to use the fans 72a, 72b and 72c with larger diameters without the pairs of fans 72a and 72b and the pairs of fans 72b and 72c interfering with each other.This arrangement of the central axes of the fans 72a, 72b and 72c in a zigzag pattern, as shown in . Fig. As shown in Figure 2, it is possible to use fans 72a, 72b and 72c with larger diameters, compared to the case where fans 72a, 72b and 72c are simply arranged in a vertical straight line.

[0032] The temperature sensor 18 is controlled by the control unit 20 and is designed to detect as the first detection temperature a temperature of a coolant at a predetermined position on a side that is closer to the coolant outlet of the radiator 32.

[0033] It is preferable that the control unit 20 be configured as one or more vehicle-mounted electronic control units (ECUs). The control unit 20 is configured as a computer, etc., and includes a processor (processing unit) and a storage medium. The control unit 20 is designed to execute programs stored in the storage medium, etc., and thereby perform appropriate processes based on a sequence described below. The programs executed by the control unit 20 may also be stored on a computer (server) connected to the control unit 20 via a network such as the internet, etc., or on a server in a cloud environment. In this case, the control unit 20 downloads the programs via a network and executes processes according to the programs.

[0034] Fig. Figure 4 is a flowchart relating to a coolant cooling process using the cooling system 22 according to the first embodiment. The coolant cooling process using the cooling system 22 is described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 4. Fig. The process shown in section 4 is described.

[0035] Here it is assumed that the first flap 62a is in a closed state while the vehicle 10 is parked, although the first flap 62a may also be constantly open.

[0036] It is assumed that before the start of the coolant cooling process, the vehicle 10 is parked, that the circulation of the coolant through the radiator 32, the heat source 12 and the flow paths 16a and 16b is stopped, that the closures 62a, 62b and 62c are in a closed state and that the rotation of the fans 72a, 72b and 72c is stopped.

[0037] When the vehicle 10 switches from a parked state to a ready-to-drive state (including a stationary state), the coolant is circulated through the radiator 32, the heat source 12, and the flow paths 16a and 16b by a pump (not shown), and the control unit 20 initiates a coolant cooling process using the radiator 32. The coolant cooling process using the radiator 32 by the control unit 20 is repeated until the vehicle 10 is switched from the ready-to-drive state to the parked state, or until a sensing temperature at the temperature sensor 18 reaches a predetermined temperature or less after the vehicle 10 has been switched to the parked state. Here, the predetermined temperature is assumed to be a temperature T0 that is lower than a 1a-th temperature T1a, which is described below.

[0038] As described above, when the vehicle 10 is switched from the parked state to the ready-to-drive state, the control unit 20 controls the temperature sensor 18 so that it measures (detects) a temperature near the coolant outlet from the radiator 32 (step S1).

[0039] The control unit 20 determines whether the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 18 (sensing temperature) is equal to or lower than the 1a temperature T1a (step S21). If the measured temperature is equal to or lower than the 1a temperature T1a (step S21-Yes), the control unit 20 controls the shutter drive sources 64a, 64b, and 64c using power from battery 12 to open the first shutter 62a and keep the second shutter 62b and the third shutter 62c closed. The control unit 20 also controls the fan drive sources 74a, 74b, and 74c using power from battery 12 to rotate the first fan 72a. The control unit 20 maintains the stationary state of the second fan 72b and the third fan 72c (step S31). This mode is referred to as "first mode".

[0040] In the first mode, air F is drawn into the vehicle 10 through the radiator grille 10a by the rotation of the first fans 72a in the first cylindrical section 82a. The air F drawn into the vehicle 10 flows through the first flap 62a through the upper layer 56a of the core part 56, where, through heat exchange, the air F is heated to a higher temperature compared to when it passed through the grille 10a and is then expelled to the rear through the first cylindrical section 82a. Thus, the air at the rear of the core part 56, i.e., the air at the rear of the core part 56 that has passed through the first cylindrical section 82a, has a higher temperature and a higher tension than the air between the grille 10a and the core part 56. In other words, the air between the grille 10a and the core part 56 has a lower temperature and a lower tension than the air at the rear of the core part 56.

[0041] Assuming all flaps 62a, 62b and 62c are in an open state, then the temperature difference between the upstream coolant flowing through the heat source 12 and the upper level 56a of the core part 56 and the air flowing through the upper level 56a of the core part 56 is greater than a temperature difference between the downstream coolant flowing through the lower level 56c of the core part 56 and the air flowing through the lower level 56c of the core part 56.Thus, in the first mode, in which the fans 72a are rotated while the flap 62a facing the upper level 56a is open and the flaps 62a and 62c are closed so that the air F drawn into the vehicle 10 through the radiator grille 10a can be blown into the upper level 56a of the core part 56, the effect of lowering the temperature of the coolant is increased compared to the case in which, for example, the rotation of the fans 72a is stopped with the flap 62a closed and the fans 72b and 72c are rotated with the flaps 62b and 62c open to blow the air F drawn into the vehicle 10 through the radiator grille 10a into the middle level 56b or the lower level 56c of the core part 56.

[0042] Accordingly, by opening the flap 62a, which faces the upper level 56a on the upstream side along the coolant flow direction of the core part 56, in order to actively swirl the fans 72a facing the upper level 56a so that the air F can be blown into the upper level 56a as in the first mode, the cooling effect (thermal radiation effect) of the coolant can be further improved. Since the fans 72b and 72c do not need to be moved when the control unit 20 controls the cooling device 14 as in the first mode, it is possible to improve the energy efficiency of the battery 12, i.e., to reduce the energy consumption of the battery 12.

[0043] Generally, air flows from a side of higher pressure to a side of lower pressure. In the first mode, the second aperture 62b and the third aperture 62c are closed. However, the fan cover 38 separates the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b, and separates the middle level 56b and the lower level 56c at the rear of the core part 56, in order to prevent airflow between the first cylindrical section 82a and the second cylindrical section 82b, as well as between the second cylindrical section 82b and the third cylindrical section 82c at the rear of the core part 56.With such a configuration, the cooling device 14 is able to suppress an airflow that disrupts the flow of air F drawn in from the grille 10a, namely air flowing from the second cylindrical section 82b to the first cylindrical section 82a at the rear of the core part 56, and air flowing from the third cylindrical section 82c to the second cylindrical section 82b. This makes it possible to optimize the cooling performance of the coolant, for example, by opening only the orifice 62a facing the upper row 56a on the upstream side of the core part 56 and rotating only the fans 72a.

[0044] Accordingly, it is possible to optimize the cooling performance of the coolant flowing through the core part 56 of the cooler 32 using the cooling system 22, which performs a cooling process in the first mode.

[0045] By processing in the first mode in step S31, the control unit 20 performs the processing in step S1 again, while rotating the first fans 72a at a suitable rotational frequency, with the first flap 62a open.

[0046] For example, if the temperature measured by temperature sensor 18 is not equal to or lower than the first-order temperature T1a (step S21-No), the control unit 20 determines whether the measured temperature is equal to or lower than a second-order temperature T2a (step S22). Note that the following relationship is satisfied: second-order temperature T2a > first-order temperature T1a. If the measured temperature is equal to or lower than the second-order temperature T2a (step S22-Yes), the control unit 20 controls the shutter drive sources 64a, 64b, and 64c using energy from battery 12 to open the second shutter 62b, keeping the first shutter 62a open and the third shutter 62c closed.Furthermore, the control unit 20 controls the fan drive sources 74a, 74b, and 74c using energy from battery 12 to rotate the second fans 72b, while keeping the first fans 72a in a rotating state. The control unit 20 maintains the rotation-stop state of the third fans 72c (step S32). It should be noted that the first fans 72a and the second fans 72b are set to have an identical or substantially identical rotational frequency, or that the second fans 72b are set to have a lower rotational frequency than the first fans 72a. Such a mode is referred to as the "second mode".

[0047] As described above, if the coolant is cooled on the upstream side of the core part 56, the cooling effect is greater than if the coolant is cooled on the downstream side of the core part 56. Accordingly, by opening the flaps 62a and 62b, which are oriented towards the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b respectively on the upstream side of the core part 56 along the coolant flow direction, in order to actively swirl the fans 72a and 72b, which are oriented towards the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b respectively, thereby blowing air F into the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b, as in the second mode, it is possible to further improve the coolant cooling effect.Since the control unit 20 is designed to control the cooling device 14 as in the second mode, it is possible to eliminate the need to move the fans 72c, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the battery 12.

[0048] Furthermore, in the second mode, the fan cover 38 not only prevents airflow between the first cylindrical section 82a and the second cylindrical section 82b, but also airflow between the second cylindrical section 82b and the third cylindrical section 82c at the rear of the core part 56. With such a configuration, the cooling device 14 is able to suppress an airflow that disrupts the flow of air F drawn in from the grille 10a, namely air flowing from the second cylindrical section 82b to the first cylindrical section 82a, and air flowing from the third cylindrical section 82c to the second cylindrical section 82b at the rear of the core part 56.This makes it possible to optimize the cooling performance of the coolant, for example by only releasing the closures 62a and 62b, which are each facing the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b on the upstream side of the core part 56, and only rotating the fans 72a and 72b.

[0049] By assigning a higher rotational frequency to the fans 72a on the side of the upper stage 56a, which is closer to the upstream side as viewed from the cooler 32, it is possible to effectively lower the coolant temperature, allowing the coolant to circulate through the middle stage 56b and the lower stage 56c. However, if there is a difference in wind speed in the air flowing through the core part 56, the air flows from a side of higher pressure to a side of lower pressure. In this case, the cooling performance can decrease because some of the air disrupts the airflow from the front to the rear of the core part 56. In the present embodiment, the fan cover 38 prevents airflow between the first cylindrical section 82a and the second cylindrical section 82b at the rear of the core part 56.In this way, the occurrence of a cooling performance-reducing phenomenon can be prevented, in which air flows from a side of higher pressure to a side of lower pressure, even if there is a difference in rotational frequency between the first fans 72a and the second fans 72b.By using the fan cover 38, which is designed to separate the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b as well as the middle level 56b and the lower level 56c at the rear of the core part 56, thereby preventing an airflow between the first cylindrical section 82a and the second cylindrical section 82b as well as between the second cylindrical section 82b and the third cylindrical section 82c, it is possible to make the cooling performance of the coolant favorable even if there is a difference in rotational frequency between the fans 72a and 72b or if there is a difference in wind speed due to individual differences between the fans 72a and 72b.

[0050] Accordingly, it is possible to favorably design the cooling efficiency of the coolant flowing through the core area 56 of the cooler 32 with the cooling system 22, which performs a cooling process in the second mode.

[0051] By processing in the second mode in step S32, the control unit 20 performs the processing in step S1 again, while rotating the first fans 72a and the second fans 72b at a suitable rotational frequency, with the first shutter 62a and the second shutter 62b open.

[0052] For example, if the measured temperature is not equal to or lower than the 2a-th temperature T2a (step S22-No), i.e., if it exceeds the 2a-th temperature T2a, the control unit 20 controls the shutter drive sources 64a, 64b, and 64c using energy from battery 12 so that the third shutter 62c opens while the first shutter 62a and the second shutter 62b are held in an open state. Additionally, the control unit 20 controls the fan drive sources 74a, 74b, and 74c using energy from battery 12 to keep the first fan 72a and the second fan 72b in a rotating state, and controls the third fan drive source 74c to rotate the third fan 72c (step S33).It should be noted that the first fan 72a, the second fan 72b, and the third fan 72c are set to have an identical or substantially identical rotational frequency; alternatively, the second fan 72b is set to have a lower rotational frequency than the first fan 72a, and the third fan 72c is set to have a lower rotational frequency than the second fan 72b. Such a mode is referred to as the "third mode".

[0053] By opening all closures 62a, 62b and 62c, the fans 72a, 72b and 72c, which are directed towards the upper level 56a, the middle level 56b and the lower level 56c respectively, are actively set in motion to blow the air F into the upper level 56a, the middle level 56b and the lower level 56c, the cooling effect of the coolant can be further improved.

[0054] In the third mode, all fans 72a, 72b, and 72c are rotated, with all shutters 62a, 62b, and 62c open. Furthermore, the fan cover 38 prevents not only airflow between the first cylindrical section 82a and the second cylindrical section 82b, but also airflow between the second cylindrical section 82b and the third cylindrical section 82c at the rear of the core part 56. With this configuration, the cooling device 14 is able to suppress airflow that disrupts the flow of air F drawn in from the grille 10a, namely air flowing from the second cylindrical section 82b to the first cylindrical section 82a, and air flowing from the third cylindrical section 82c to the second cylindrical section 82b at the rear of the core part 56.This makes it possible to optimize the cooling performance of the coolant when all fans 72a, 72b and 72c are operating with the closures 62a, 62b and 62c open.

[0055] Accordingly, it is possible to optimize the cooling performance of the coolant flowing through the core part 56 of the cooler 32 using the cooling system 22, which performs a cooling process in the third mode.

[0056] By processing in the third mode in step S33, the control unit 20 performs the processing in step S1 again, while rotating the first fans 72a, the second fans 72b and the third fans 72c at a suitable rotational frequency, with the first shutter 62a, the second shutter 62b and the third shutter 62c open.

[0057] Accordingly, the control unit 20 repeats the coolant cooling process by switching between the first mode, the second mode and the third mode based on the coolant temperature detected by the temperature sensor 18, according to the Fig. The sequence shown in step 4 switches.

[0058] The coolant cooling process by the control unit 20 using the radiator 32 is repeated until the vehicle 10 is brought into park mode or until the sensing temperature at the temperature sensor 18 reaches a predetermined temperature T0 or below after the vehicle 10 has been brought into park mode. The control unit 20 switches the shutter section 34 and the fan section 36 to one of the first, second, or third modes.

[0059] In this way, the cooling system 22 is configured such that, based on a temperature near the coolant outlet from the cooler 32, it releases, for example, only the closure 62a facing the upper level 56a on the upstream side of the core part 56, and rotates only the fans 72a. This makes it possible to adequately cool the coolant and simultaneously improve energy efficiency compared to the case where all closures 62a, 62b, and 62c are released and all fans 72a, 72b, and 72c are rotated. At this point, it is possible to suppress an airflow that disrupts the flow of air F drawn in from the grille 10a at the rear of the core part 56 by bringing the end faces 83 of the cylindrical sections 82a, 82b, and 82c of the fan cover 38 into contact with or near the rear of the core part 56.This makes it possible to improve cooling performance if, for example, only the aperture 62a, which faces the upper level 56a on the upstream side of the core part 56, is released and only the fans 72a are rotated.

[0060] In a forced cooling system using fans 72a, 72b, and 72c, the cooling capacity (thermal radiative efficiency) increases with an increasing temperature difference between the coolant and the air F blown into the core area 56, while the cooling capacity decreases with a decreasing temperature difference. Thus, in an area closer to the upper level 56a, the temperature difference between the coolant and the air F blown into the core area 56 increases, and the cooling effect increases. Even when using fans 72a, 72b, and 72c, which consume electrical energy, the highest energy efficiency is achieved when the fans rotate at the largest possible temperature difference between the coolant and the air F blown into the core area 56.Accordingly, with the cooling system 22 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to carry out efficient cooling by first cooling the top level 56a of the core part 56, thereby improving the cooling efficiency including energy efficiency.

[0061] In the configured cooling system 22, if the coolant temperature does not fall to or below the aa temperature T1a by cooling only the upper level 56a, the middle level 56b is also cooled in addition to the upper level 56a, and if the coolant temperature does not fall to or below the aa temperature T2a by cooling only the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b, the lower level 56c is also cooled in addition to the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b, thus enabling efficient cooling and resulting in favorable cooling performance, including energy efficiency.

[0062] Furthermore, by assigning a higher rotational frequency to the fans 72a on the side of the upper level 56a that is closer to the upstream side as viewed from the cooler 32, it is possible to effectively lower the coolant temperature, allowing the coolant to circulate through the middle level 56b and the lower level 56c. At this point, a fan cover 38 is used to separate the upper level 56a and the middle level 56b, and to separate the middle level 56b and the lower level 56c at the rear of the core part 56, thus preventing airflow between the first cylindrical section 82a and the second cylindrical section 82b, as well as between the second cylindrical section 82b and the third cylindrical section 82c at the rear of the core part 56.By using the fan cover 38 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress an airflow that disturbs the flow of air F drawn in from the grille 10a, namely air flowing from the second cylindrical section 82b to the first cylindrical section 82a at the rear of the core part 56, and air flowing from the third cylindrical section 82c to the second cylindrical section 82b. Accordingly, by using the cooling system 22 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to optimize the cooling performance of the coolant flowing through the core part 56 of the cooler 32.

[0063] In the present embodiment it is possible to provide a cooling system 22 and a vehicle 10 with the cooling system 22 which is able to favorably shape the cooling performance of the coolant flowing through the core part 56 of the radiator 32.

[0064] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the first fan drive source 74a is powered using energy from the battery 12 to rotate the first fans 72a. The first fans 72a can, for example, be rotated using a crankshaft rotational movement of a motor as a heat source 12.

[0065] In the present embodiment, the core area 56 of the cooler 32 is virtually divided into three areas: the upper level 56a, the middle level 56b, and the lower level 56c. The core area 56 of the cooler 32 can, for example, be virtually divided into an upper and a lower level, or further subdivided into four or more levels. It is preferable that the number of closure sections 34, fan sections 36, and fan covers 38 be determined according to the number of virtual subdivisions of the core area 56.

[0066] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which two fans 72a, 72b and 72c are arranged for each of the levels 56a, 56b and 56c. For each level 56a, 56b and 56c, a single fan 72a, 72b and 72c can be arranged, or three or more fans 72a, 72b and 72c can be arranged.

[0067] Fig. Figure 1 shows an example where the grille 10a, the closure section 34, the radiator 32, and the fan section 36 are aligned in a straight line along the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle 10. The radiator grille 10a, the closure section 34, the radiator 32, and the fan section 36 do not need to be arranged in a straight line as long as they lie along the direction of airflow F. (First modification)

[0068] A first modification of the first embodiment is described with reference to the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 described.

[0069] Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram relating to a device for cooling a heat source 12 of a vehicle 10 according to the first modification of the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 6 is a flow diagram relating to a cooling process of a coolant using a cooling system 22 according to the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0070] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the vehicle 10 comprises a first temperature sensor 18 and a second temperature sensor 18a. The first temperature sensor 18 is the same as the temperature sensor 18 described in the first embodiment. The second temperature sensor 18a is designed to detect, as a second detection temperature, the temperature of a coolant at a predetermined position on a side closer to a coolant inlet to a radiator 32. For example, the second temperature sensor 18a is capable of detecting the temperature of the coolant in a flow path 16a on the upstream side. The second temperature sensor 18a is controlled by a control unit 20.

[0071] The coolant cooling process using the cooler 32 is described with reference to the one in Fig. The process shown in section 6 is described. The description of the parts is identical to those described with reference to Fig. The sections described in point 4 are omitted accordingly, and only the different parts are described.

[0072] If the measured temperature at the first temperature sensor 18 is a temperature T1a or below (step S21-Yes), the control unit 20 calculates a difference in the measured temperature (a temperature difference) between the first temperature sensor 18 and the second temperature sensor 18a (step S21a). If the temperature difference is a temperature T1b or below that falls within a predetermined temperature range (step S21a-Yes), the control unit 20 performs the processing in step S31 (processing in first mode). If the temperature difference is greater than the temperature T1b (step S21a-No), the control unit 20 performs the processing in step S32 (processing in second mode).

[0073] If the measured temperature at the first temperature sensor 18 is the 2a temperature T2a or below (step S22-Yes), the control unit 20 calculates a difference in the measured temperature (a temperature difference) between the first temperature sensor 18 and the second temperature sensor 18a (step S22a). If the temperature difference is a 2b temperature T2b or below, which falls within another predetermined temperature range (step S22a-Yes), the control unit 20 performs the processing in step S32 (processing in the second mode). If the temperature difference is greater than the 2b temperature T2b (step S22a-No), the control unit 20 performs the processing in step S33 (processing in the third mode).

[0074] When using the two temperature sensors 18 and 18a, the control unit 20 can, for example, control the cooling device 14 in this way. (Second modification)

[0075] A second modification of the first embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 7 described. Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing part of the front section of a vehicle 10.

[0076] An example was described in which the cooler 32 of the cooling device 14 according to the first embodiment, which is described in the Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows a downflow cooler with a structure for cooling a coolant by flowing the coolant from top to bottom.

[0077] A cooler 32 of the cooling device 14 according to the present modification, which is in Fig. Figure 7 shows a so-called cross-flow cooler, which is designed to cool a coolant by allowing the coolant to flow, for example, from right to left.

[0078] In this case, instead of the one in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown upper container 52, a first side container is used, and instead of the one in the Fig. 1 and Fig. In the lower container 54 shown in Figure 2, a second side container is used. For example, the first side container 52 is located to the right of the core part 56 and the second side container 54 is located to the left of the core part 56.

[0079] The first area (upper level) 56a, the second area (middle level) 56b and the third area (lower level) 56c, which are described in the first embodiment, each correspond to a right area, a middle area and a left area of ​​the core part 56 of the present modification.

[0080] The coolant cooling system 22 with the structure described above is controlled by the control unit 20 in a manner similar to the coolant cooling system 22 described in the first embodiment. Therefore, a description of the coolant cooling process is omitted here. (Second embodiment)

[0081] A cooling system 22 according to a second embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 8 described. In the second embodiment, which is a variant of the first embodiment including its modifications, elements that are identical to or have the same function as those of the first embodiment are designated with the same reference numerals, and their description is omitted. The same applies to the following embodiments.

[0082] Fig. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing part of a front section of the vehicle 10 according to the second embodiment. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the closure section 34 can be arranged between the condenser 40 and the cooler 32. Even in such a configuration, the cooling device 14 is used in a similar manner to the cooling device 14 described in the first embodiment. (Third embodiment)

[0083] A cooling system 22 according to a third embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 9 described.

[0084] Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing part of a front section of the vehicle 10 according to the third embodiment. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the shutter section 34 can be arranged between the cooler 32 and the fan section 36. In this case, the first flap 62a of the flap section 34 is arranged, for example, in the first cylindrical section 82a such that it faces the upper plane 56a. The second flap 62b is arranged, for example, in the second cylindrical section 82b such that it faces the middle plane 56b. The third aperture 62c is arranged, for example, in the third cylindrical section 82c such that it faces the lower plane 56c. In such a configuration, the cooling device 14 is used in a similar manner to the cooling device 14 described in the first embodiment. (Fourth embodiment)

[0085] A cooling system 22 according to a fourth embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 10 described.

[0086] Fig. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing part of a front section of the vehicle 10 according to the fourth embodiment. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the closure section 34 is arranged at the rear of a fan section 36 and a fan cover 38.

[0087] In this case, the closure section 34 can, for example, be arranged in the fan cover 38 or in a frame supported by the chassis. In such a configuration, the cooling device 14 is used in a similar manner to the cooling device 14 described in the first embodiment.

[0088] Accordingly, in the coolant cooling system 22, it is sufficient for the closure section 34 to be installed directly before or after the radiator 32 or directly after the fan section 36. By using one of the cooling systems 22 described in the first to fourth embodiments, it is possible to optimize the cooling performance of the coolant flowing through the core part 56 of the radiator 32.

[0089] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention, in its further aspects, is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described here. Accordingly, various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2018-043554

[0002]

Claims

[1] Cooling system for a coolant, comprising: a cooler with a core part through which air is directed from a front to a back, where the core part is virtually divided into a first area and a second area along a flow direction in which a coolant flows, where the first area is located on a side closer to an upstream side and serves as an inlet for the coolant that has passed a heat source, wherein the second area is located on a side that is closer to a downstream side than to the upstream side, and acts as an outlet for the coolant; a fan section provided on the rear of the core part, wherein the fan section comprises a first fan facing the first area and a second fan facing the second area; a closure section provided on the front or rear of the core part or on the rear of the fan section, the closure section comprising: a first closure which faces the first area and is designed so that it can be opened and closed for the first area, a second closure facing the second area and designed so that it can be opened and closed for the second area; a fan cover that surrounds an outer circumference of the first fan and an outer circumference of the second fan at the rear of the core part and separates the first area and the second area at the rear of the core part from each other; a first temperature sensor configured to detect, as its first detection temperature, the temperature of the coolant at a predetermined position on a side closer to the coolant outlet; and a control unit configured to independently control the first fan and the second fan of the fan section based on the first temperature sensor detected by the first temperature sensor, and to independently control the first aperture and the second aperture of the aperture section. where: The control unit is configured to switch between the following modes: a first mode in which, if the first sensing temperature is a first temperature or below, the control unit is configured to rotate the first fan and stops the rotation of the second fan in a state in which the control unit is configured to open the first shutter and close the second shutter; and a second mode in which, if the first detection temperature is a second temperature or below, where the second temperature is greater than the first temperature, the controller is configured to rotate the first fan and the second fan in a state in which the controller is configured to open the first shutter and the second shutter. [2] Cooling system according to claim 1, wherein the fan cover comprises: a first cylindrical section in a cylindrical shape, surrounding the outer circumference of the first fan and extending along an outer edge of the rear of the first area of ​​the core part or its vicinity; and a second cylindrical section in a cylindrical shape, surrounding the outer circumference of the second fan and extending along an outer edge of the rear of the second area of ​​the core part or its vicinity, to prevent airflow to and from the first cylindrical section at the rear of the core part. [3] Cooling system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in the second mode the control unit is configured to control a rotational frequency of the first fan such that it is equal to or greater than a rotational frequency of the second fan. [4] Cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a second temperature sensor configured to detect, as a second detection temperature, a temperature of the coolant at a predetermined position on a side closer to the coolant inlet to the radiator, with the control unit configured to switch between the following modes: the first mode, if the first detection temperature is the first temperature or below, and the difference between the first detection temperature and the second detection temperature lies within a predetermined temperature range; and the second mode if the first detection temperature is lower than or below the first temperature and the difference between the first detection temperature and the second detection temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature range. [5] Vehicle, comprising: the cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 4; a radiator grille provided on a front section of the vehicle and functioning as an air intake opening configured to allow air into the core part of the radiator while the vehicle is in motion; and the heat source, which is provided on the rear side of the cooling device.

Images